Medieval Bulgaria Day Tour from Bucharest by TransProtocol
Difficulty
easy
Duration
approximately 12 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves moderate walking over cobblestones and uneven terrain.
Overview
Cross the Danube from Bucharest to Bulgaria’s medieval capital, Veliko Tarnovo. Visit rock-carved Basarabov Monastery, the Tsaravets Fortress, and ancient Roman ruins on this immersive private day tour with TransProtocol.
Discover Medieval Bulgaria • Private Day Tour
All Ages • Approx 12 hours • Discover and Enjoy!
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About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating day trip from Bucharest to Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria's medieval gem. Explore the unique Basarabov Monastery, marvel at the historic Tsaravets Fortress, and wander through the ancient Roman town of Nicopolis ad Istrum. Experience a rich tapestry of culture and history in this enchanting destination.
Enjoy a one day trip from Bucahrest to Veliko Tarnovo - one of the highlights of Bulgaria.
About
Enjoy a one day trip from Bucahrest to Veliko Tarnovo - one of the highlights of Bulgaria. Experience a culture with widely different roots and traditions, and learn about Bulgaria's long history in the medieval city of Veliko Tarnovo!
Travel to the foothills of the Balkan Mountains, visit Basarabov Monastery-the only monastery in Bulgaria carved in the rock, explore the medieval Veliko Tarnovo, visit the Tsaravets Fortress, a fortification from the Middle Ages and then admire Nicopolis ad Istrum, a Roman and Early Byzantine town.
Itinerary
Basarabov Monastery Begin your day trip to Veliko Tarnovo, crossing the Danube River which separates Romania from Bulgaria, and with first stop at Basarabov Monastery, the only monastery in Bulgaria carved in the rock and inhabited since its establishment.
Tsaravets Fortress - Veliko Tarnovo Not far from Basarabov Monastery is the charming medieval city, Veliko Tarnovo, often referred to as the "City of the Tsars". You will walk on the cobbled streets in the historical quarter of Samovodskata Charshiya and up on the hill, you will discover the fortress of Tsarevets, settled in the 4th century, surrounded by thick walls and the strongest Bulgarian fortification from the Middle Ages. Veliko Tarnovo was often being compared to Rome or Constantinople in greatness.
Nicolopis Ad Istrum Nicolopis ad Istrum was founded by the Roman emperor Marcus Ulpius Traianus to honor his victories over the Dacians tribes in 101 and 106. People of various ethnicity lived in Nicopolis: settlers from Asia Minor, Thracians and Roman veterans.
More Info
Inclusions: • Hotel pick up and Drop Off • Bottled Water • Driver/Guide - English Speaker • Personal and Luggage Insurance • Live Commentary on Board • Parking Fees • Road Tax • Entrance Fee
Exclusions: • Meals and Drinks
Know before you book
- On this tour we are leaving Romania and entering Bulgaria. Please ensure that your Visa requirements are in order and that you carry your passport /ID card(for citizens of EU states).
- The tour usually lasts about 12 hours.
Adventure Tips
Carry your passport and check visa requirements
Since the tour crosses from Romania into Bulgaria, ensure your travel documents are valid for border crossing.
Wear comfortable shoes for cobblestone streets
Veliko Tarnovo’s historical quarter and fortress feature uneven, old stone paths that require sturdy footwear.
Bring water and sun protection
Some walking sections are exposed with limited shade, especially near the fortress and archaeological sites.
Prepare for a long day trip
The full itinerary lasts about 12 hours with multiple stops; plan accordingly for meals and rest breaks.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Eurasian jay
- European green lizard
History
Veliko Tarnovo served as the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire and was a vital cultural and political center in medieval Southeast Europe.
Conservation
Efforts to preserve the stone fortifications and archaeological sites include controlled visitor access and local community engagement to protect these heritage landmarks.
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Adventure Hotspots in Bucharest
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Provides stability on cobbled streets and uneven fortress grounds.
Light rain jacket
Keeps you dry during occasional showers while touring outdoor sites.
spring|fall specific
Sunhat and sunscreen
Protects against sun exposure on exposed walking routes near the fortress and monastery.
summer specific
Layered clothing
Allows you to adjust warmth as temperatures shift throughout the day.
fall|winter specific