Full Day Trip to Bulgaria from Bucharest

Bucharest , Romania

Full Day Trip to Bulgaria from Bucharest

Active

(331 reviews)

12h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

In only a few hours this tour takes you from Bucharest to the foothills of the Balkan Mountains where the impressive medieval settlement of Veliko Tarnovo is located. The tour will start with a visit to the remarkable medieval capital of Veliko Tarnovo, built high on the surrounding hilltops, full of medieval charm.
Once you have explored Veliko Tarnovo and enjoyed lunch, the tour will continue to the city of Ruse, one of Bulgaria's most elegant cities, boasts a touch of Central European grandeur rarely found elsewhere in the country. It's a city embellished with grand belle époque buildings and carefully tended green squares, reminiscent of a petite piece of Vienna that has gracefully made its way down the Danube.
While exploring Romania, be sure not to overlook the incredible chance to explore Bulgaria, another enchanting destination easily accessible through guided day trips from Bucharest!

Available options

English tour

Friday departure<br/>Pickup included

Guided tour in English

Pickup included

What's included

Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle

Pick-up from selected central hotels in Bucharest

Professional tour guide

Detailed itinerary

The activity will start in downtown Bucharest.

Stop 2 Pass by

Pass by and admire the Unirii Square one of the largest public squares in Europe.

Stop 3 Pass by

Pass by and admire the Palace of Parliament - the world’s largest, heaviest and most expensive administrative building

Stop 4 Pass by

Pass by and admire the University Square, a symbolic place laden with history.

Stop 5

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.

The tour will continue to the city of Ruse, one of Bulgaria's most elegant cities, boasts a touch of Central European grandeur rarely found elsewhere in the country. It's a city adorned with imposing belle époque architecture and meticulously maintained leafy squares, as if a small chunk of Vienna that has drifted down the Danube.

Our guide will showcase the main highlights of Ruse Old Town, after which you'll have the opportunity to explore the city at your own pace.

We will end our activity in downtown Bucharest.

What's not included

Entrance tickets

Optional Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.4

186 reviews

5★

120

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.7

145 reviews

5★

116

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

This activity requires a minimum of 4 participants. If this number not be reached, we'll get in touch with you to offer alternative dates or trips.

Please, make sure you owe all the necessary documents and permissions for crossing the border.

Please be advised that delays are currently occurring at the Giurgiu–Ruse border crossing due to ongoing repair work on the Bulgarian side of the Friendship Bridge. Traffic is restricted to a single lane and operates alternately with traffic lights, leading to longer waiting times and traffic queues.

Children under 4 years-old cannot join shared tours. Please contact us for a private tour offer

Entrance fees are not included - approximately 15 Euros or 29 leva (Bulgarian currency). The tickets can be purchased only in cash. Once you cross the border, there will be a stop at an exchange office

Important notes

Upon arrival at your hotel in Bucharest, you may confirm your departure details via email: booking@grayline.ro

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.

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