Wonders of Bulgaria, Romania, and Serbia

Welcome to Europamundo! We’ll transfer you to the hotel and you’ll have some free time. In the afternoon, you’ll find information about the start of your tour on the boards located at the hotel reception.

Important:

Check-in: Please note that hotel check-in time is usually at 02:00 p.m. If you require earlier room availability, consider booking an additional night at the beginning of your trip.

Additional Nights: If you requested additional nights, your room will be ready upon arrival at the hotel, but your trip guide will only contact you when the included activities begin. At the reception, you will find an information board with our staff’s telephone number and hours of assistance. Until then, you have free time to enjoy at your leisure. The hotel staff can assist you with any information you need.

Optional Activities: During your trip, your guide may offer optional activities. If these activities are available on the Europamundo app or through your "My Trip" link, we strongly recommend booking them as early as possible to ensure availability. Waiting until the last minute may result in missed opportunities due to limited tickets, bus seats, or other factors.

Note: The schedules provided in this itinerary are indicative. The guide may adjust them as needed to enhance the trip experience.

In the morning, we’ll tour the capital of Bulgaria and visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral (admission included), the Russian Church, the mosque, as well as the city’s squares and avenues with Stalinist architecture. We’ll also visit the National Museum of History (admission and guided tour included), which offers a fascinating overview of Bulgaria, showcasing Thracian gold treasures, Orthodox icons, and medieval artifacts. It is one of the largest and most prestigious history museums in the Balkans. Afternoon at leisure.

Total distance covered: 204 km
Scenery: The route will take us through the valleys and mountains of the Balkans, with lush forests and traditional villages that evoke the most authentic side of Bulgaria.

08:15 a.m. Sofia – Departure. We leave the capital and head south, following historic routes that lead us into the heart of the Thrace region.

11:00 a.m. Bachkovo – Arrival. We will visit the Bachkovo Monastery (admission included), founded in the 11th century. It is the second largest in the country and a symbol of Bulgarian Orthodox Christianity. Its unique Byzantine frescoes and mountain setting create an atmosphere of reflection and spiritual beauty. We’ll stroll through its courtyards and galleries, admiring its medieval architecture and the traditions that still endure.

12:00 p.m. Bachkovo – Departure. The journey continues along scenic roads through rolling hills and vineyards, bringing us closer to one of Bulgaria’s cultural gems.

12:45 p.m. Plovdiv – Arrival. Lunch is included before enjoying a comprehensive panoramic tour of the city. Plovdiv, considered one of the oldest cities in Europe, blends past and present in its historic center. We will visit the Roman Amphitheater, the Old Pharmacy, and the Armenian House (admissions included), all testimony to its cultural wealth. Afterwards, you’ll have free time to wander its cobbled streets, discover art galleries, cafés, and charming shops.

Total distance covered: 319 km
Scenery: The route will take us from inland Bulgaria to the Black Sea coast, passing green hills, fertile plains, and views of the Bulgarian shoreline.

Note: In Sozopol, if weather permits, you may swim in the Black Sea; we recommend bringing a swimsuit and towel.

09:00 a.m. Plovdiv – Departure. We leave the heart of Thrace and head east, crossing farmland and picturesque villages on our way to the coast.

01:00 p.m. Sozopol – Arrival. One of the oldest towns in Bulgaria, Sozopol has preserved its historic charm with cobblestone streets, wooden houses, and a bohemian seaside atmosphere. You’ll have time for lunch, a walk through the Old Town, or to relax at the beach. The historic center invites you to explore small taverns and hidden corners full of charm.

04:30 p.m. Sozopol – Departure. We continue north along the Black Sea coast, enjoying maritime views and the lively atmosphere of this coastal region.

05:15 p.m. Burgas – Arrival. The fourth largest city in the country and Bulgaria’s main Black Sea port, Burgas combines modern boulevards with the charm of its extensive seaside park. Free time to stroll, relax by the sea, or explore its lively downtown.

Total distance covered: 221 km
Scenery: The journey follows the Black Sea coast, with views of beaches, cliffs, and forests alternating with charming historic towns and maritime landscapes.

09:00 a.m. Burgas – Departure. We set off north along the coastline, heading toward one of the country’s cultural gems.

09:45 a.m. Nesebar – Arrival. A thousand-year-old city and UNESCO World Heritage Site, located on a peninsula linked to the mainland by an isthmus. We’ll stroll among its 40 churches built between the 5th and 18th centuries, cobblestone streets, and traditional wooden houses that reflect its glorious Thracian, Greek, Roman, and Byzantine past. Free time to explore the city and have lunch.

12:30 p.m. Nesebar – Departure. The route continues along the coast, with sea views and forest landscapes as we approach our next destination.

02:45 p.m. Aladzha Monastery – Arrival. Visit of this unique site (admission included). It is a rock-hewn monastery, surrounded by nature, preserving chapels, monks’ cells, and legends that convey an aura of spirituality and mystery.

03:30 p.m. Aladzha – Departure. We continue toward one of the most evocative residences on the Black Sea.

04:15 p.m. Balchik – Arrival. Visit to the Balchik Palace and Gardens (admission included), the former summer residence of Queen Marie of Romania. Its terraces, pavilions, and seaside gardens create a uniquely romantic atmosphere.

05:30 p.m. Balchik – Departure.
06:15 p.m. Varna – Arrival. Bulgaria’s third largest city, Varna delights visitors with its lively downtown and extensive seaside park along the coast. Free time.

Total distance covered: 260 km
Scenery: The route takes us from the Black Sea coast into the interior of Bulgaria, crossing fertile plains and forested hills that frame ancient fortresses and traditional villages.

Note: Comfortable footwear is recommended for the visit to Madara, and appropriate clothing for the visit to the mosque.

08:30 a.m. Varna – Departure. We leave the coast and immerse ourselves in Bulgaria’s medieval and spiritual history.

09:45 a.m. Madara – Arrival. Visit to the famous Madara Rider (admission included), an exceptional rock relief carved in the 8th century. Unique in Eastern Europe, it is considered a symbol of Bulgarian identity and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

11:00 a.m. Madara – Departure.

11:45 a.m. Shumen – Arrival. This city, significant during the Ottoman era and in Bulgaria’s national history, is home to its 18th-century mosque—the largest in the Balkans outside Turkey. Lunch included before continuing our journey.

01:45 p.m. Shumen – Departure.

04:00 p.m. Arbanassi – Arrival. This former merchant town is renowned for its fortress-like houses from the 16th and 17th centuries. We will visit the Church of the Nativity (admission included), famous for its interior frescoes, considered treasures of Bulgarian religious art.

05:15 p.m. Arbanassi – Departure.

05:30 p.m. Veliko Tarnovo – Arrival. The former capital of Bulgaria, it preserves a picturesque medieval quarter along the Yantra River gorge. Free time to stroll through its cobblestone streets, artisan shops, and historic corners.

Total distance covered: 190 km.

Scenery: We’ll cross the Danube River as we pass through the border.

Note: Keep your passport handy, as it will be required at the Romanian border.

08:30 a.m. – Departure from Veliko Tarnovo.
10:00 a.m. - Basarbovski Monastery - We’ll visit this pilgrimage site, carved into the rock.

11:00 a.m. – Departure from Basarbovski. We’ll cross the border and the Danube; please be aware that there may be delays at the border.
12:45 p.m. - Bucharest. Time of arrival may change depending on border procedures. You’ll have free time for lunch upon arrival.

3:00 p.m., - City tour of Bucharest, featuring the historic center and the impressive Palace of Parliament. You´ll have free time afterward to explore the city at your leisure. Dinner will be included.

Total distance covered: 325 km.

Scenery: Beautiful landscapes featuring the Carpathian Mountains and small, picturesque villages along the way.

Note: Sinaia is in the mountains, so we recommend warm clothes and comfortable shoes.

08:00 a.m. – Departure from Bucharest. We’ll leave the bustling metropolis and head toward the mountains, where we’ll enjoy beautiful Alpine landscapes.
10:30 a.m. - Sinaia. We’ll explore the gardens of the Peles and Pelisor Castles (we’ll only visit the gardens as the castle interiors are closed on Mondays).

12:00 p.m. – Departure from Sinaia. We’ll continue through high mountain regions.
01:00 p.m. - Bran - Arrival at the 14th-century fortress known as "Dracula’s Castle" (tickets included). You´ll have time for lunch and to explore the charming town center after.

03:30 p.m. – Departure from Bran. As we journey on, you’ll observe the unique architecture of some villages, reflecting the influence of German settlers in the region.
05:45 p.m. - Sighisoara - Arrival at this beautiful walled medieval city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tonight, where you´ll enjoy a special dinner at Count Dracula’s restaurant, located in the house where Vlad the Impaler was born.

Note: At times, due to heavy tourist traffic, there are long delays in accessing Bran Castle, which may cause a significant delay in the arrival time to Sighisoara.

Note: Hotel capacity in Sighisoara is limited. On certain dates, accommodation may be provided in Sibiu (departing from Sighisoara after dinner). In these cases, the stop in Biertan will be replaced with a visit to the city of Alba Iulia.

Total distance covered: 395 km.

Scenery: Beautiful and varied landscapes, with little villages en route.

Note: From November to March, due to shorter days and monument opening hours, we won´t be able to visit the interior of the church in Biertan. However, we will make a brief stop to view it from the outside.

09:00 a.m. – Departure from Sighisoara. In Transylvania, there are many fortified churches in areas that were historically inhabited by people of German origin. Some of these churches are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and we’ll visit one in Biertan.
09:45 a.m. - Biertan - Arrival to visit the fortified church (tickets included).

10:45 a.m. – Departure from Biertan.
12:15 a.m. - Sibiu - Arrival in this important economic and cultural center, which was once the capital of Transylvania. Take some time to stroll through its bustling narrow streets and squares and enjoy lunch.

02:30 p.m. – Departure from Sibiu. We’ll drive along the highway through picturesque agricultural regions.
04:15 p.m. - Hunedoara - We will visit the impressive Hunedoara Castle (tickets included), considered the most beautiful castle in Romania.

05:15 p.m. – Departure from Hunedoara.
07:45 p.m. - Timisoara. This city, with Roman origins, is home to diverse communities. Its beautifully restored classical and pedestrian center is perfect for an evening stroll.

Total distance covered: 170 km.

Note: Please have your passport handy, as it will be required at the Serbia border.

08:30 a.m. – Departure from Timisoara. We’ll journey through pleasant landscapes as we head towards Serbia. The border crossing may occasionally cause some delays.
11:30 a.m. - Belgrade. We’ll take a city tour of this lively capital situated at the confluence of the Danube and the Sava. We’ll explore the bustling city center, the parliament, and enjoy a stroll through the Kalemegdan Fortress. The tour also includes a visit to the Museum of Yugoslavia, where Tito’s Mausoleum is located. You’ll have free time in the afternoon to further explore the city at your own pace.

Total distance covered: 130 km.

After breakfast, we’ll depart for Fruska Gora, a stunning natural park renowned for its landscapes and beautiful Orthodox monasteries, some of which date back to the 12th century. We’ll visit the Monasteries of Krusedol and Novo Hopovo, founded by the influential Brankovic family. We’ll continue to Sremski Karlovci, one of the oldest cities in the country, dating back to 1308 when it was known as Karom. Its beautifully preserved historic center features neoclassical architecture. We’ll visit the Museum of Beekeeping and Winery Živanović, where lunch and a wine tasting will be included. We’ll then proceed to Novi Sad, the second-largest city in Serbia, located along the banks of the Danube, known for its diverse architecture that reflects its rich history. A highlight is the Petrovaradin Fortress, considered one of the largest in Europe and a masterpiece of 18th-century European military architecture, often referred to as "The Gibraltar of the Danube."

Total distance covered: 422 km.

We’ll journey south through Serbia, stopping first at the archaeological site of the Roman city of Viminacium (admission included). At its peak, the city was home to 40,000 inhabitants. Here, we’ll admire the Roman roads, as well as the remnants of ancient temples, streets, plazas, amphitheaters, palaces, hippodromes, and thermal baths. Our next stop will be the Manasija Monastery, one of the most important monuments of medieval Serbian culture. Surrounded by towering walls, the monastery’s church still preserves its 15th-century frescoes. We’ll continue to Nis, the third-largest city in Serbia, with a rich Roman heritage. This is where Constantine the Great was born. Overnight accommodation will be here.

Total distance covered: 266 km.

We’ll visit the Zica Orthodox Monastery, dating back to the early 13th century, also known as the Coronation Church, as seven Serbian kings were crowned here. We’ll then continue to the Studenica Monastery, the largest in Serbia, nestled in the mountains. Founded in 1190, it boasts a stunning ensemble of wood and plaster buildings, with its interior walls adorned with Byzantine frescoes. Lunch will be included. Afterward, we’ll head to Kraljevo, a charming town in central Serbia, surrounded by mountains and rich in history and culture. The town is known for its beautiful main square, dominated by a monument to Serbian warriors and its medieval fortress.

Total distance covered: 192 km.

We’ll depart for Ravanica, home to a monastery and an impressive five-domed church. Afterward, we’ll continue to the village of Topola to discover its fascinating history. On Oplenac Hill, we’ll see St. George´s Church, founded by King Peter I of Yugoslavia. This church serves as the mausoleum of the Serbian and Yugoslav royal house and later Yugoslavia until 1945. We’ll then return to Belgrade for accommodation.

Breakfast and free time in Belgrade before your transfer to the airport.