From Bucharest: Experience Bulgaria Small-Group Trip
Sud-Muntenia Region, Bulgaria
This is a small group full-day tour from Bucharest to North Bulgaria. You will cross the border into Bulgaria over the Danube River, the second largest river in Europe.
Ivanovo Churches, Veliko Tarnovo & Arbanassi Village Day Tour from Bucharest
This day tour from Bucharest visits the UNESCO-listed Ivanovo Churches, Veliko Tarnovo city, and the nearby village of Arbanassi, suitable for adults comfortable with walking and stairs.
Highlights
- Visit Ivanovo Churches, UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979
- Explore Veliko Tarnovo, known as the City of Tsars
- Discover the village of Arbanassi with its preserved medieval architecture
Description
After a one-hour drive from Bucharest, you cross the Danube River into Bulgaria and stop at Ivanovo. The rock-hewn churches, located in the Rusenski Lom River valley, are famous for their 13th-14th century frescoes.
The next stop is Veliko Tarnovo, a historic city on the Yantra River. It features the Tsarevets Fortress ruins, the patriarchal church with distinctive modern paintings, and narrow streets showcasing local craftsmen. There are several restaurants where you can enjoy traditional Bulgarian cuisine and local wines.
The tour continues to the nearby village of Arbanassi, which retains its medieval character through preserved architecture. After the visit, the tour returns to Bucharest.
Includes
- Transportation by car or minibus
- English-speaking travel assistant
Excludes
- Entrance fees
- Lunch (approximately EUR 10 per person)
Important Information
- A minimum of 4 participants is required for the tour to operate. If the minimum is not met, an alternative date or full refund is offered.
- Not suitable for children under 7 years old.
- Not suitable for people with walking disabilities due to extensive walking and stair climbing.
- The tour crosses the Romania-Bulgaria border; please ensure your visa arrangements are in order.
- Carry your passport or, if an EU citizen, your ID card.
- Ivanovo Rock Church is closed from December 1 to March 31. During this period, visits will be replaced by the Roman ruins of Nicopolis ad Istrum, Basarbovski Rock Monastery, or a city tour of Ruse.
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.
For the best experience, bring comfortable walking shoes and valid travel documents. The spring to autumn months are ideal for this tour due to the seasonal closure of Ivanovo Church.
