The Best of Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria

Upon arrival in Belgrade, Serbia’s vibrant capital, your driver will welcome you and escort you to your hotel. Enjoy the sights of New Belgrade, featuring Socialist architecture and modern business centres, during the ride from Nikola Tesla Airport. After hotel check-in, use your free time to rest and prepare for the journey ahead. In the evening, we recommend a leisurely stroll through one of Belgrade’s oldest quarters to Skadarlija, the city’s bohemian heart. This charming 19th century cobbled street is lined with ’’kafanas’’ where you can enjoy delicious local specialties and traditional music.

After breakfast, you will embark on a tour (driving and walking) around Belgrade, a capital city well known for its various architectural styles, dynamic history, and fantastic views of one of the biggest river confluences in all of Europe. Start the tour by visiting the Museum of Yugoslav History, a memorial complex devoted to the life and deeds of Josip Broz Tito, the political leader of Yugoslavia. Next, you will pass by the stadium of FC Red Star – the former European and World Cup champions, and proceed to the Temple of Saint Sava, Belgrade’s patron saint. Very much a symbol of the city, this impressive building can be seen from any part of the capital. After a short break at the Temple’s plateau, the panoramic tour will then take you from Slavija Square, to Saint Mark’s Church, the Serbian National Parliament, and White Palace, and on to Republic Square. This most central point of Belgrade is surrounded by cultural institutions such as the National Theatre and the National Museum. The tour will then head along the lively Knez Mihailo Street, the main pedestrian and shopping zone, before stopping for a visit to the Orthodox Cathedral Church of Saint Michael the Archangel, which is located just across from the Building of Patriarchate. Your guide will tell you about the tavern around the corner, the oldest in the city and intriguingly know as “?”, before continuing to Kalemegdan Park and Belgrade Fortress, the most important cultural-historic complex of the city, situated on the confluence of the rivers Sava and Danube.

Breakfast. Today you will explore the most interesting sights of Vojvodina, a province in the north of Serbia. You will be driven through picturesque scenery and Serbia’s famous wine region towards the “Serbian Holy Land”, home to 17 functioning Serbian Orthodox monasteries. You will visit the well-preserved monastery Krušedol, where you will have the opportunity to buy wine and rakija made by the monks. The tour continues to the town of Sremski Karlovci. A real gem of Serbian culture and spirituality, Sremski Karlovci feels likes a “museum town” with its Baroque center, the Patriarchal Court, the Orthodox Cathedral of Saint Nicholas and the first Serbian secondary school (gymnasium). It is also famous for wine production and the town’s annual Wineball festival. You will end your tour of this charming town with a visit and wine tasting at one of the region’s most prominent wineries. As Sremski Karlovci lies on the banks of the Danube, you will have the opportunity to enjoy lunch on the shore of Central Europe’s longest river. Further on the tour, you will visit the 2021 European Capital of Culture, Novi Sad. Located on the historical border of two former empires – the Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman – as a result, the capital of Vojvodina is a multi-cultural city with an interesting mix of architectural influences. On a sightseeing tour around the city, you will walk around the city’s pedestrian zone, past the City Hall, a Catholic church, the old city center, the former house of Albert Einstein’s wife Mileva, the cultural foundation Matica Srpska, and a synagogue. You will then follow the right bank of the Danube and visit Petrovaradin, or the so-called “Danube’s Gibraltar”, where the fortress is located. Enjoy wonderful views of the Danube and the entire city, you can also end this day with dinner in a wonderful ambiance before heading back to Belgrade.

Breakfast at the hotel and then check out. The tour continues to Timişoara, the largest city in western Romania and one that has been influenced by many cultures. The charm of this city, situated on the northern bank of the River Bega, lies in its distinctive architectural character and vibrant cultural life, and it is frequently referred to as “Little Vienna”. Its historical significance is further confirmed by the fact that it was the first European city to have electric street lighting. A guided tour will eave from Unirii Square, the city’s main square surrounded by beautiful medieval buildings among which the Catholic Cathedral of Saint George is a decorative highlight. The tour will take you to Liberty Square, Victory Square home to the Romanian National Opera and National Theatre, and the 15th century Huniade Castle which today represents the best example of Gothic architecture in this region. Continuing to Sibiu, the European Capital of Culture in 2007. Before the sightseeing tour check-in to the hotel and take a short rest. Sibiu was the largest and richest of seven fortified towns built by German settlers in the 12th century. In Sibiu, the first hospital and pharmacy in Romania were established, the Romanian book was printed and the oldest museum in Romania, the Brukenthal National Museum, was built. The wealth acquired by the trade guilds of Sibiu was used to build impressive buildings and fortification, and today the old town has retained its former splendor. Parts of the medieval walls still surround the historic center, where narrow streets intersect 17th century buildings. During the tour you will visit the Large Square with Brukenthal National Museum, the Small Square, the Council Tower, the Bridges of Lies, Stairs Passage, and the Orthodox Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, modelled on the magnificent Agia Sofia. Overnight.

After check-out, enjoy your leisurely morning with a cup of coffee on the charming cobbled streets of Sibiu, after which we’ll continue our journey through the heart of Transylvania to our next destination. This region is renowned for its timeless feudal castles, fortified medieval churches, stunning parks, and rich cultural experiences. Just a couple of minutes away from Sibiu you will continue a true Romanian journey by exploring its traditional villages, and the “Astra” National Museum Complex offers a perfect glimpse into this heritage. As one of Europe’s largest open-air museums, it showcases the essence of rural life through charming traditional houses and intricate wooden churches that tell the stories of a bygone era. EXPERIENCE MORE / Transfăgărășan Scenic Road: Wind through the heart of the Carpathian Mountains along the Transfăgărășan, one of the world’s most breathtaking roads. This legendary 90 km route, often described as ’’the road to the sky,’’ offers breathtaking views and an exhilarating drive with its winding turns and panoramic vistas. Constructed in the early 1970s for military purposes, the Transfăgărășan now showcases human engineering and Romania’s spectacular natural beauty. Take a ride on the cable car towards the stunning Bâlea Lake, a glacial gem nestled amidst the peaks, where its serene waters mirror the beauty of the Făgăraș Mountains. Continue towards Sinaia, dubbed the “Pearl of the Carpathians”. This charming town stretches beyond the renowned Peleș Castle, offering stunning mountain landscapes and many lovely hotels and villas. Check-in to hotel and soak in the memories of the day.

Our day begins with the visit of Peleș Castle, where King Carol I of Romania was once mesmerized by the breathtaking Carpathian Mountain scenery. Captivated by the views, the royal family chose this location for their summer residence, resulting in a magnificent Neo-Renaissance masterpiece. The castle features exquisite turrets and intricate details - its exterior is adorned with hand-painted stained glass windows and numerous sculptures, while the interior boasts over 160 rooms, each decorated by more than 400 artisans and artists. This combination of noble taste and ingenious engineering makes Peleș Castle a true marvel. The tour continues towards Brașov, founded by the Teutonic Knights in the 13th century. Numerous medieval towers still glitter over the city, interspersed with baroque buildings and churches, while relaxed cafés line the main square, Piața Sfatului. During the tour, you will walk down one of the narrowest streets in the world toward the Gothic-style cathedral, Biserica Neagră, famously called the Black Church. But the day isn’t over yet, as mystery awaits in Bran Castle, commonly known as Dracula’s Castle. This 13th century gothic fortress, set atop a 60-meter cliff, offers an irresistible journey back to the Middle Ages, inspiring Bram Stoker’s “Dracula”. Stoker was fascinated by the dark mysteries of the Carpathian Mountains and the legend of Vlad the Impaler, who was held prisoner in this castle, leading to its association with “Dracula’s Castle”. In the evening, return to your Sinaia hotel as you collect your impressions and memories from Transylvania.

After check-out from Sinaia hotel, our Romanian adventure takes a delightful turn. Having explored its enchanting mysteries and castle stories, today we’ll indulge in a journey of tasting natural gifts of the Carpathians. EXPERIENCE MORE / Carpathian Wines: As a part of experiencing the diversity of Romania, we invite you to enjoy a wine-tasting experience at one of the prestigious wineries south of the Romanian Carpathians. You will travel through the expansive wine region of Dealu Mare, to reach a charming estate nestled amidst these lush fields. Your final stop of the day is Bucharest, the capital and largest city in Romania. Check-in to your hotel and enjoy some free time to explore this vibrant city.

Famous for its wide, tree lined boulevards and magnificent Belle Époque architecture, Bucharest earned the nickname “The Little Paris” in the early 1900s for its vibrant social scene. The city charms with a blend of French, Byzantine, and communist-era architecture set among leafy parks. Your panoramic tour begins at the Arcul de Triumf, celebrating Romania’s independence, before continuing to the opulent House of Ceauşescu. From there, drive along Bulevardul Unirii, a monumental avenue lined with fountains and imposing façades. Admire the monumental People’s Salvation Cathedral, set to be the largest Orthodox church in the world, then explore the colossal Palace of the Parliament, the second largest administrative building in existence. Next, stroll through the Old Town, discovering the elegant Romanian Athenaeum, a 19th-century concert hall famed for its circular, fresco lined auditorium and superb acoustics. Continue to the historic Royal Palace, now home to the National Museum of Art of Romania, and the peaceful Stavropoleos Monastery, known for its intricate stone and wood carvings. The cobblestone streets, lively cafés, and restored façades of this district capture the city’s enduring charm. EXPERIENCE MORE / Art Nouveau Dinner (Optional): For those desiring a deeper connection with Bucharest, we present an optional exploration of the city’s enchanting 19th century era. Discover Bucharest’s rich history and timeless charm firsthand. With the assistance of our expert guide, you’ll discover a carefully selected restaurant that captures the essence of Art Nouveau Bucharest. Immerse yourself in this unique evening experience, where every detail, from the ornate decor to the delectable cuisine, evokes the city’s storied past, promising to create cherished memories in a nostalgic and captivating atmosphere.

After check-out from Bucharest, the first stop of the day will take you on a journey back to the rise and fall of the mighty capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire. As you walk along the winding cobblestone streets of Veliko Tarnovo, you will discover how its resilient population thrived under Turkish rule, creating magnificent architectural masterpieces and forming a strong and united craftsmen’s guild. The legends and stories, along with the interesting history of Veliko Tarnovo and the Tsarevets fortress, have gained them numerous admirers in both Bulgaria and abroad, making the region a top tourist attraction in the country. Next, you’ll head to the nearby village of Arbanasi, known for its well-preserved traditional architecture and serene atmosphere. EXPERIENCE MORE / Rural Roots of Bulgaria: To truly discover the essence of Bulgarian rural lifestyle, there is no better place than the neighbouring village of Arbanasi, an architectural and museum reserve. A picturesque open-air museum of cultural heritage includes 80 houses, some of which still have original Ottoman decor and design. In this small village, you can also visit one of its five churches, which house more than 3,600 frescoes together. To conclude this rural experience, we check-in to our accommodation in Arbanashki Han. Nestled within an ethno complex, it offers an exceptional chance to immerse yourself in the ambience of a 17th century han (Turkish for a motel), capturing the spirit of Oriental architectural tradition. *In case of restricted availability, alternative options will be offered.

After check-out from Arbanasi, our journey leads us to the Open Air Ethnographic Museum Etar, where you’ll continue to uncover the charm of traditional Bulgarian life. Explore historic water-powered installations, artisans’ workshops, and authentic Bulgarian National Revival era architecture. EXPERIENCE MORE / Etar Traditional Crafts: Unveil the secrets of herbal traditions as you craft your own handmade soap or soothing calendula ointment in Etar Ethno Village. Delve into the art of creating herbal cosmetics using age-old recipes passed down through generations. Witness the ancient techniques women used to harness nature’s power for their beauty rituals, with a hands-on demonstration of crafting natural, herb-based products. Continue towards the South, to discover yet another testament of the rich Bulgarian heritage and craftsmanship. Explore the Damascena Complex in the stunning Valley of Roses, home to Bulgaria’s first private rose factory. Uncover why roses are a cherished symbol of Bulgaria, visit the amphitheatre, and buy renowned rose oil straight from the distillery. Enjoy an exclusive factory tour and see how this “liquid gold” is meticulously crafted. Finally, explore Plovdiv, one of Europe’s oldest cities, where heritage is marked by a striking blend of ancient Roman, Ottoman, and Bulgarian influences. Located on the banks of the Maritsa River and built around seven hills, the city presents a rich cultural mix and a unique architectural blend, earning it the title of an open-air museum. Marvel at the Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis*, a 2nd century amphitheatre renowned for its acoustics and cultural events. Stroll through the Old Town, with its charming cobblestone streets and beautifully preserved Revival-era houses. Conclude your tour in Kapana, Plovdiv’s vibrant creative hub filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries, before checking in to your hotel. *Due to limited visiting hours, there may be restrictions on entering the Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis in the late afternoon and evening.

Check-out and bid farewell to Plovdiv. Enjoy a leisurely morning with some free time to explore the city at your own pace. Afterward, we’ll continue our journey toward Sofia. Sofia is a modern, youthful Eastern European capital, distinguished by a unique combination of onion domed churches, communist-style architecture and Ottoman legacy. The home to many of Bulgaria’s finest museums, galleries and restaurants, Sofia will reveal to you its most interesting landmarks, such as the impressive Saint Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the colourful Church of Saint Nicholas the Miracle Maker, the Ivan Vazov National Theatre, the Church of Saint George, the Banya Bashi Mosque, the Sofia Synagogue, the National Palace of Culture and Largo, one of the prime examples of Socialist Classicism architecture and one of Sofia’s main landmarks. Finish the day by checking into your hotel in Sofia and rest well

Breakfast and hotel check out. End of services.