Bulgaria Day Trip: Basarabovo Monastery, Tsarevets & Arbanasi

Bucharest , Romania

Bulgaria Day Trip: Basarabovo Monastery, Tsarevets & Arbanasi

Active

(3 reviews)

10h - 11h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

If you like medieval towns and you want to take a trip to Romania, but you would also want to visit a little bit of Bulgaria, you can kill two birds with one stone by opting for a one-day tour of Bulgaria with a personal guide comprising 3 of the most beautiful tourist attractions in Bulgaria.

Let’s see the itinerary:

1. BASARABOVO MONASTERY

2. VELIKO TARNOVO

3. ARBANASI VILLAGE

Available options

Bulgaria Day Trip: Basarabovo Monastery, Tsarevets & Arbanasi

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

WiFi on board

All Fees and Taxes

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

A stone monastery like none other you have ever seen, you absolutely must visit the Basarabovo Monastery, just a few steps past the Bulgarian border.

What makes this place so special is a series of stone carved chapels and cells, 30 meters above the ground. And that is not all. The churches’ interiors used to bear painted frescos, but only a few of them have had their murals survive to this day.

Stop 2

Another touristic attraction in Bulgaria is Veliko Tarnovo, the capital of the Bulgarian Empire between 1185-1393, we will make sure you not only get to see UNESCO World Heritage sites, but also have some relaxation, adventure, and traditional Bulgarian food – everything you need for a memorable experience.

Walking along the narrow streets and admiring the rows of houses perched one above the other, you will feel like you belong in this charming city, with its rich culture and unique look.

Stop 3

We do not know how many open-air museums you have seen, but a private trip to Arbanasi Village in Bulgaria, just past the Romanian border, will definitely make you fall in love with its remarkable architecture even if you do not have a professional eye.

The moment you step into the village, you will not be able to put your camera down, because every house is like a miniature citadel, each with a unique stone structure, thick walls, and wooden window frames. The entire village has been declared a historical and architectural reserve, and it has made the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites.

This is the earliest and the most richly decorated church in the village of Arbanasi. It was built by stages. The oldest layer of wall-paintings is from the end of XVI c. It consists of a naos, a narthex, a gallery and a chapel dedicated to St. John the Baptist.

One of the most interesting scenes is the genealogical tree of Jesus Christ with the twelve ancient philosophers. It is in the narthex.

“The wheel of life” is the most impressive wall-painting in the gallery of the church. This is the earliest presentation of the scene on the walls of Bulgarian churches.

What's not included

entrance tickets

meals

Available languages

Guide guide

DE RU CMN JA EN IT FR HE RO ES

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Bucharest

Bucharest, the capital of Romania, is a vibrant city known for its blend of historic architecture and modern development. With a rich cultural scene, lively nightlife, and significant historical landmarks, it offers a unique experience for travelers.

Top Attractions

Palace of the Parliament

One of the largest administrative buildings in the world, a symbol of communist architecture and power.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours €7-10

Old Town (Lipscani)

The historic center of Bucharest, filled with charming streets, cafes, restaurants, and nightlife.

Historical/Cultural Half-day Free to explore

Village Museum (Muzeul Satului)

An open-air museum showcasing traditional Romanian village life with authentic houses and buildings.

Cultural 2-3 hours €3-5

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sarmale

Cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat, rice, and spices, usually served with polenta and sour cream

Main Course Contains meat and gluten

Mămăligă

Polenta made from cornmeal, often served with cheese, sour cream, or meat dishes

Side Dish Vegetarian, gluten-free

Ciorbă

A sour soup made with various ingredients such as meat, vegetables, or fish, often served with a boiled egg and sour cream

Soup Can be vegetarian or with meat

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Carpathian Mountains Skiing in Poiana Brașov Spa treatments Strolling through Herăstrău Park Visiting museums and art galleries Attending classical concerts at the Romanian Athenaeum Boating on Lake Herăstrău Skiing

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest time of the year with the most outdoor activities and festivals. However, it can be crowded with tourists.

20°C to 30°C 68°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Romanian
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Romanian Leu (RON)

Time Zone

GMT+2 (EET), GMT+3 (EEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas

Bucharest is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be cautious at night and avoid poorly lit streets.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
• Be cautious of strangers approaching you with unsolicited offers or requests

Getting there

By air

Henri Coandă International Airport • 16.7 km (10.4 miles) from city center
Aurel Vlaicu International Airport • 8 km (5 miles) from city center

By train

Gara de Nord, Băneasa

By bus

Autogara Nord, Autogara Sud

Getting around

Public transport

Clean, efficient, and affordable. The metro system is the fastest way to get around Bucharest.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town (Lipscani) Dorobanți Cotroceni

Day trips

Peleș Castle

120 km (75 miles) • Full day

A stunning neo-Renaissance castle nestled in the Carpathian Mountains, once the summer residence of the Romanian royal family.

Bran Castle

160 km (100 miles) • Full day

A medieval fortress often associated with Dracula, offering a glimpse into Romania's rich history and folklore.

Sinaia

120 km (75 miles) • Full day

A beautiful mountain town known for its stunning landscapes, historic sites, and outdoor activities.

Festivals

Bucharest International Film Festival (BIFF) • April George Enescu Festival • September Bucharest Pride • June

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Romanian phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
Explore beyond the tourist hotspots to discover hidden gems and local culture
Use public transport or walk to get a sense of the city's rhythm and avoid traffic
Try local street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience
Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds