Medieval Bulgaria Day Tour with TransProtocol
Difficulty
easy
Duration
approx. 12 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for reasonably active travelers able to walk on uneven surfaces for several hours.
Overview
Spend a day traveling from Bucharest to the medieval treasures of Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria. Visit rock-carved Basarabov Monastery, the powerful Tsaravets Fortress, and ancient Nicopolis ad Istrum on this culturally rich shared tour.
Discover Medieval Bulgaria • Shared Day Tour
All Ages • Approx 12 hours • Discover and Enjoy!
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About This Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable day trip from Bucharest to Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria's medieval gem. Discover the unique Basarabov Monastery, explore the majestic Tsaravets Fortress, and wander through the ancient Roman town of Nicopolis ad Istrum. Experience rich history and diverse cultures nestled in the stunning Balkan Mountains.
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
This trip crosses an international border; bring your passport or EU ID card to avoid delays.
Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes
Expect cobblestone streets and uneven terrain at fortresses and archaeological sites.
Bring Water and Snacks
Meals are not included, so pack snacks to keep your energy up during the 12-hour tour.
Prepare for Variable Weather
Mountain weather can shift; dress in breathable layers to stay comfortable throughout the day.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Eurasian roe deer
- European green lizard
History
Veliko Tarnovo served as Bulgaria’s capital during the Middle Ages and was a key political and cultural center.
Conservation
Local efforts focus on preserving archaeological sites and minimizing impact on natural habitats within the Balkan Mountains.
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Adventure Hotspots in Bucharest
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy Walking Shoes
Needed for navigating cobbles and rocky paths in historical sites.
Light Layered Clothing
Allows adjustment to spring temperatures and weather changes.
spring specific
Sun Protection
Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses safeguard you during long daylight hours.
summer specific
Rain Jacket
Protects from unexpected autumn showers while touring.
fall specific