In this tour, you’ll experience an exciting and unique holiday filled with breathtaking landscapes, interesting monasteries such as Rila, and the finest touch of Bulgarian rose production. You’ll start your journey by exploring the dynamic capitals of both countries, Sofia and Bucharest. These vibrant cities will show you the local culture, history and architecture. You’ll wander the lively streets, taste the local cuisine, and meet the friendly locals. Next, you’ll head towards the famous Dracula castle in the heart of Transylvania. This iconic attraction is known for its Gothic architecture, mysterious atmosphere and fascinating history. You’ll explore the castle’s rooms, hallways and secret passages and learn about its connection to the legendary vampire. Visit some of the most beautiful natural landmarks in Bulgaria and Romania. You’ll hike through the stunning Rila Mountains, where you’ll witness breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and forests. You’ll also visit the impressive Painted Monasteries of Bucovina, known for their unique frescoes and intricate architecture. Finally, you’ll experience the finest touch of Bulgarian rose production. Bulgaria is known for its high-quality rose oil; you’ll witness this process firsthand. You’ll visit a rose plantation, learn about the harvesting and distilling process, and even get to make your own rose oil.
Itinerary Highlights
Learn about rose farming
Explore Dracula’s Castle
Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites
Local food and wine tasting
What’s included
Private tours for most included activities
Meet & greet airport service
Luxury or boutique accommodation at your chosen level
Expert guides in each destination
flexibility
This is an example itinerary. It is fully flexible; you can add or detract days and include hotels at your chosen budget. It departs daily.
8
Nights
Price Guide
$POA
Our quotes are bespoke for your customised trip. The prices displayed are indicative only, read more
Day 1
Fly to Bucharest
Day 2
Ruse and Veliko Tarnovo
Explore the remnants of the communist era by visiting the second largest building in the world, the Palace of Parliament, built by the former dictator of Romania, Ceausescu.
Take a break from Romania and experience the wonders of Bulgaria. Begin your journey with a visit to the rock churches in Ivanovo, followed by a trip to the magnificent Tsarevets Fortress in Veliko Tarnovo.
Day 3
Kazanluk and Plovdiv
Bulgaria is in southeastern Europe, known for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. One of the interesting facts about Bulgaria is that it is named “the Land of Roses” due to the abundance of rose gardens and the production of high-quality rose oil and cosmetics. Visit the Etar Museum in the morning to learn more about the traditional Bulgarian crafts, including the process of making rose oil. Here, you can see the production process and even purchase some authentic rose oil and cosmetics.
After exploring the Etar Museum, you can head to the Damask Rose Farm to deepen your knowledge of rose oil and cosmetics production. This farm is located in the Rose Valley, the heart of the Bulgarian rose industry. You will learn about the history and significance of Bulgarian rose oil and its use in the perfume and cosmetics industry.
In the late afternoon, you can visit Plovdiv, one of Bulgaria’s oldest and most beautiful cities. Plovdiv is situated in the central part of the country and is known for its well-preserved ancient architecture, diverse cultural heritage, and vibrant arts scene. You can explore the Old Town of Plovdiv, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and admire the Roman amphitheatre, the Ancient Stadium, and the numerous museums and galleries.
Day 4
Dobarsko and Rila Sofia
Start your day by visiting the picturesque village of Dobarsko, where you will be welcomed with traditional Bulgarian folk dancing and singing performed by the Dobarsko Grannies. After the performance, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the unique frescoes in the village’s small church.
Next on the agenda is a visit to the impressive Rila Monastery, the largest and most famous Eastern Orthodox monastery in Bulgaria, in the heart of the Rila Mountains. You will have the chance to admire the monastery’s stunning architecture, learn about its rich history, and see its collection of valuable artworks and artifacts.
In the evening, you will arrive in Sofia, the capital city of Bulgaria. Here, you will be treated to a special dinner featuring Neshtinari fire dances, a traditional Bulgarian dance where performers dance barefoot over burning embers.
Day 5
Sofia and Belogradchik
Today’s explore the capital city of Bulgaria, Sofia, with a particular emphasis on visiting the Boyana Church, which was built in the 11th century and has been included on the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage list. This fascinating church is renowned for its exquisite frescoes, which were painted in 1259 and depict various biblical scenes and images of religious and secular leaders.
In the second half of the day, we will head to the picturesque town of Belogradchick, located in Northwestern Bulgaria. Here, you can explore the ancient fortress and marvel at the stunning natural beauty of the nearby Belogradchick Rocks. These unique rock formations are Bulgaria’s most beloved natural landmarks and will leave a lasting impression on all who visit them.
Day 6
Craiova and Sibiu
As your journey in Bulgaria ends, it’s time to head back to Romania. With so many exciting places to explore, you’ll be delighted to know that your next destination is Craiova, a city known for its rich history and cultural heritage. You can take a sightseeing tour of the city and marvel at its magnificent architecture and monuments.
After exploring Craiova, you’ll go to the beautiful Cozia monastery. The monastery is one of Romania’s most visited tourist spots, and its stunning architecture and serene surroundings will leave you spellbound.
As your journey progresses, you’ll come across Sibiu, a city often referred to as the “jewel of Transylvania.” It’s no wonder that Sibiu was named the European Capital of Culture in 2007, given its rich history, cultural significance, and breathtaking beauty.
In the evening, you’ll have the opportunity to indulge in a traditional dinner with the locals. You’ll be taken to a small village near Sibiu, where you can relish homemade wine, schnapps, and a delectable spread of local delicacies. The warm and friendly locals will ensure that you have a memorable experience filled with good humour and laughter.
Day 7
Sighisoara and Brasov
Today, visit the fortified church in Biertan. Legend has it that couples arguing were locked up in the church tower for two weeks to reconcile. This practice led to a lack of divorces in Biertan for 300 years!
After exploring Biertan, your next stop on your itinerary could be Sighisoara, a charming inhabited citadel and a UNESCO Heritage Site. You can take a walking tour of this beautiful town and enjoy the sights and sounds of its historical streets and buildings.
Finally, your day trip could end in Brasov, often called the “Crown of Transylvania”. This picturesque town is situated at the foot of the Carpathian Mountains and is known for its medieval architecture, beautiful churches, and lively atmosphere.
Day 8
Brand, Sinaia and Bucharest
Begin your day by visiting one of the most famous castles in Europe, the renowned Dracula Castle. This imposing fortress in Transylvania is known for its Gothic architecture and dark legends. As you explore the castle’s rooms and corridors, you’ll uncover the history and stories surrounding it.
After you visit Bran Castle, take a short drive to the nearby Cantacuzino Castle, where you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch. Lush gardens surround this stunning castle, and it is a perfect place to relax and unwind while savouring local delicacies.
Later in the day, you’ll visit Peles Castle, the former summer residence of the Romanian Royal family. This magnificent castle is situated in the heart of the Carpathian Mountains and boasts a unique blend of architectural styles. As you tour the castle’s opulent rooms, you’ll discover how the Romanian monarchy lived and entertained guests during summers.
As the day ends, savour a delicious farewell dinner at a local restaurant in Bucharest. Enjoy a variety of traditional dishes and drinks while reminiscing about your unforgettable day exploring some of Romania’s most iconic castles.
Day 18
Fly home
A note on price
The prices outlined above are a rough guide to give you an idea of costs and enable you to budget for your trip.
Guide prices are generally for private arrangements based on twin share, in well located, good quality accommodation (excluding international flights).
Please note costs are indicative and may vary due to a number of factors such as; travel date, hotel choice, room category, number of people travelling and prevailing exchange rates.
Price Guide $POA
When to travel
janfebmaraprmayjunjulaugsepoctnovdec
When planning a trip to Bulgaria, it’s important to consider the best time to visit based on the season. In the spring, from March to May, Bulgaria is in bloom and the weather is mild, making it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The summer months of June to August are the busiest time for tourists, with warm temperatures perfect for beach trips and festivals. Autumn, from September to November, is a quieter season, but still offers pleasant weather and beautiful fall foliage. Finally, the winter season from December to February brings cold temperatures and snow, but also opportunities for skiing and winter sports in the mountainous regions.
The average temperature in Bulgaria during the month of January is around 0°C. However, due to frequent cold spells, the temperature can sometimes drop below -10°C. It is important to bundle up and stay warm when going outside during this time of year. Additionally, there is often snowfall throughout the country during January, which can create beautiful winter landscapes but also pose challenges for travel and commuting.
The average temperature in Bulgaria during the month of February is slightly higher than in January, with temperatures ranging from 1°C to 5°C. While there may still be occasional cold spells, it is generally milder than January. However, it is still important to dress warmly and be prepared for any winter weather, as there may still be snowfall throughout the country.
In March, the weather in Bulgaria starts to warm up with average temperatures ranging from 4°C to 10°C. However, it is still advisable to dress in layers and bring a coat for cooler evenings. While snowfall is less likely, there may still be occasional rainfall throughout the country. Overall, March in Bulgaria is a transition month from winter to spring, with pleasant weather conditions for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
The weather in Bulgaria during April is generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from around 10°C to 16°C. While there may be occasional showers, the likelihood of snowfall is low. It's a great time to explore the country's beautiful outdoor attractions, such as the Rila Mountains or the Black Sea coast. However, it's still a good idea to bring some layers in case of cooler evenings.
In May, the weather in Bulgaria tends to get warmer with temperatures ranging from around 14°C to 22°C. You can expect plenty of sunshine and mild evenings, making it a great time to explore all that this beautiful country has to offer. Whether you're interested in hiking, swimming, or just taking a leisurely stroll through picturesque towns, Bulgaria has something for everyone in May. Don't forget to pack sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun!
June in Bulgaria is typically warmer than May, with temperatures ranging from about 17°C to 26°C. It's a great time to enjoy the outdoors and soak up the sun, but don't forget to stay hydrated and protect your skin from the sun's rays. Whether you're exploring the mountains or lounging on the beach, there's plenty to see and do in Bulgaria in June.
In July, the weather in Bulgaria tends to be hot with temperatures ranging from about 20°C to 30°C. It's important to stay cool and hydrated during this time, especially if you plan on spending time outdoors. Don't forget to use sunscreen to protect your skin from the strong summer sun! Despite the heat, July is a great time to explore all that Bulgaria has to offer.
For the month of August, Bulgaria experiences warm weather with temperatures ranging from around 22°C to 32°C. It's important to stay hydrated and cool during this time, particularly if you plan on spending time outside. Applying sunscreen is also recommended to protect your skin from the strong summer sun. Despite the warmth, August is a wonderful time to explore Bulgaria and all it has to offer.
The weather in Bulgaria during September is generally pleasant, with temperatures ranging from around 15°C to 25°C. While it may not be as warm as August, it's still important to stay hydrated and protected from the sun if you plan on spending time outside. Overall, September is a great time to visit Bulgaria and enjoy all the country has to offer.
The weather in Bulgaria during October is generally cooler than September, with temperatures ranging from around 8°C to 16°C. It's important to pack warm layers and a jacket if you plan on spending time outside, as well as an umbrella in case of rain. Despite the cooler temperatures, October is still a beautiful time to visit Bulgaria and take in its natural beauty.
In November, the weather in Bulgaria can get quite chilly, with temperatures ranging from around 3°C to 10°C. It's important to pack warm layers, a jacket, and a hat to stay comfortable in the colder temperatures. Occasionally, there may also be rain or snow, so it's a good idea to bring an umbrella or waterproof gear. Despite the cooler weather, November is still a great time to visit Bulgaria and explore its cultural and natural attractions.
In December, the weather in Bulgaria can get quite cold, with temperatures ranging from around -1°C to 6°C. It's important to pack warm layers, a thick jacket, and a hat to stay comfortable in the chilly temperatures. Snow is possible, so it's a good idea to bring waterproof gear and boots. Despite the colder weather, December is still a wonderful time to visit Bulgaria and enjoy its festive atmosphere.
Add on’s
There are many add-on holiday options to this Romania and Bulgaria itinerary; for example, you could head to Greece – With its stunning beaches, ancient ruins, and delicious cuisine, Greece is an excellent option for those looking for a relaxing Mediterranean getaway. Turkey offers a unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures, with beautiful beaches, bustling cities, and incredible historical sites. Hungary – Hungary’s capital city, Budapest, is known for its stunning architecture, thermal baths, and vibrant nightlife. Austria is an excellent choice for those looking for stunning alpine landscapes, picturesque villages, and world-class skiing.
Want a quote on a trip like this?
Speak to one of our travel specialists and we’ll create your personalised itinerary just for you
