Visit Bulgaria - Veliko Tarnovo Medieval Fortress - Private tour from Bucharest
Active
12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Begin your full-day trip to Bulgaria with a departure from your hotel in Bucharest in the morning. Travel by air-conditioned car or minibus to the foothills of the Balkan Mountains. Explore the medieval settlement of Veliko Tarnovo with your guide. Here you can observe the Tsaravets Fortress, a fortification from the Middle Ages.
Continue on and visit the St. Dimitrie Basarabov Monastery, which is carved into a cliff and still inhabited. Go to Arbanasi Village and admire the medieval architecture.
At the end of day trip we will travel back to Bucharest.
A current, valid passport is required.
Available options
Visit Bulgaria - Veliko Tarnovo Medieval Fortress - Private tour from Bucharest
Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
The tour’s first stop, St. Dimitrie Basarabov Monastery, is the only Bulgarian example of such a structure carved into a cliff that is still inhabited today, and its atmosphere will fill you with wonder. You will have a little time to explore this beautiful religious monument before we continue to the remarkable medieval settlement of Veliko Tarnovo, which was once the medieval capital of Bulgaria.
2
Stop 2
Veliko Tarnovo is home to the magnificent Tsaravets Fortress, the strongest Bulgarian fortification from the Middle Ages. Once home to royalty this ancient stronghold is now a striking tourist attraction standing proudly atop Tsaravets Hill. Once you have explored Veliko Tarnovo and enjoyed lunch, the tour will continue to its final stop; Arbanasi Village. Nestled on a high plateau between the settlements of Veliko Tarnovo and Gorna Oryahovitsa, Arbanasi Village provides spectacular views and incredible examples of medieval architecture dating back several centuries. This tour is truly one for the enthusiastic history buff and anybody that appreciates beautiful buildings, stunning scenery, and the opportunity to discover a little more about Bulgaria.
3
The Arbanasi village it is known for the rich history and large number of historical monuments, such as 17th- and 18th-century churches and examples of Bulgarian National Revival architecture, which have turned it into a popular tourist destination.
4
Is a must visit Market Street where people sold there hand-made products in the 19th century. Nowadays the street is a tourist attraction where one can see renovated old houses, various traditional craft workshops, bakeries, pastry shops and so called Hadji Nikoly Inn build in 1858.
What's not included
Lunch
Tsarevets
St. Dimitrii of Basarbovo Monastery
Konstantsalieva House
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
22 reviews
5★
21
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
5.0
29 reviews
5★
29
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
