Welcome to Europamundo! We’ll transfer you to the hotel and you’ll have some free time. In the afternoon, you’ll find information about the start of your tour on the boards located at the hotel reception.

Important:

Check-in: Please note that hotel check-in time is usually at 02:00 p.m. If you require earlier room availability, consider booking an additional night at the beginning of your trip.

Additional Nights: If you requested additional nights, your room will be ready upon arrival at the hotel, but your trip guide will only contact you when the included activities begin. At the reception, you will find an information board with our staff’s telephone number and hours of assistance. Until then, you have free time to enjoy at your leisure. The hotel staff can assist you with any information you need.

Optional Activities: During your trip, your guide may offer optional activities. If these activities are available on the Europamundo app or through your "My Trip" link, we strongly recommend booking them as early as possible to ensure availability. Waiting until the last minute may result in missed opportunities due to limited tickets, bus seats, or other factors.

Note: The schedules provided in this itinerary are indicative. The guide may adjust them as needed to enhance the trip experience.

Sofia

In the morning, we’ll tour the capital of Bulgaria and visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral (admission included), the Russian Church, the mosque, as well as the city’s squares and avenues with Stalinist architecture. We’ll also visit the National Museum of History (admission and guided tour included), which offers a fascinating overview of Bulgaria, showcasing Thracian gold treasures, Orthodox icons, and medieval artifacts. It is one of the largest and most prestigious history museums in the Balkans. Afternoon at leisure.

Sofia – Bachkovo Monastery – Plovdiv

Total distance covered: 204 km
Scenery: The route will take us through the valleys and mountains of the Balkans, with lush forests and traditional villages that evoke the most authentic side of Bulgaria.

08:15 a.m. Sofia – Departure. We leave the capital and head south, following historic routes that lead us into the heart of the Thrace region.

11:00 a.m. Bachkovo – Arrival. We will visit the Bachkovo Monastery (admission included), founded in the 11th century. It is the second largest in the country and a symbol of Bulgarian Orthodox Christianity. Its unique Byzantine frescoes and mountain setting create an atmosphere of reflection and spiritual beauty. We’ll stroll through its courtyards and galleries, admiring its medieval architecture and the traditions that still endure.

12:00 p.m. Bachkovo – Departure. The journey continues along scenic roads through rolling hills and vineyards, bringing us closer to one of Bulgaria’s cultural gems.

12:45 p.m. Plovdiv – Arrival. Lunch is included before enjoying a comprehensive panoramic tour of the city. Plovdiv, considered one of the oldest cities in Europe, blends past and present in its historic center. We will visit the Roman Amphitheater, the Old Pharmacy, and the Armenian House (admissions included), all testimony to its cultural wealth. Afterwards, you’ll have free time to wander its cobbled streets, discover art galleries, cafés, and charming shops.

Plovdiv – Sozopol – Burgas

Total distance covered: 319 km
Scenery: The route will take us from inland Bulgaria to the Black Sea coast, passing green hills, fertile plains, and views of the Bulgarian shoreline.

Note: In Sozopol, if weather permits, you may swim in the Black Sea; we recommend bringing a swimsuit and towel.

09:00 a.m. Plovdiv – Departure. We leave the heart of Thrace and head east, crossing farmland and picturesque villages on our way to the coast.

01:00 p.m. Sozopol – Arrival. One of the oldest towns in Bulgaria, Sozopol has preserved its historic charm with cobblestone streets, wooden houses, and a bohemian seaside atmosphere. You’ll have time for lunch, a walk through the Old Town, or to relax at the beach. The historic center invites you to explore small taverns and hidden corners full of charm.

04:30 p.m. Sozopol – Departure. We continue north along the Black Sea coast, enjoying maritime views and the lively atmosphere of this coastal region.

05:15 p.m. Burgas – Arrival. The fourth largest city in the country and Bulgaria’s main Black Sea port, Burgas combines modern boulevards with the charm of its extensive seaside park. Free time to stroll, relax by the sea, or explore its lively downtown.

Burgas – Nesebar – Aladzha Monastery – Varna

Total distance covered: 221 km
Scenery: The journey follows the Black Sea coast, with views of beaches, cliffs, and forests alternating with charming historic towns and maritime landscapes.

09:00 a.m. Burgas – Departure. We set off north along the coastline, heading toward one of the country’s cultural gems.

09:45 a.m. Nesebar – Arrival. A thousand-year-old city and UNESCO World Heritage Site, located on a peninsula linked to the mainland by an isthmus. We’ll stroll among its 40 churches built between the 5th and 18th centuries, cobblestone streets, and traditional wooden houses that reflect its glorious Thracian, Greek, Roman, and Byzantine past. Free time to explore the city and have lunch.

12:30 p.m. Nesebar – Departure. The route continues along the coast, with sea views and forest landscapes as we approach our next destination.

02:45 p.m. Aladzha Monastery – Arrival. Visit of this unique site (admission included). It is a rock-hewn monastery, surrounded by nature, preserving chapels, monks’ cells, and legends that convey an aura of spirituality and mystery.

03:30 p.m. Aladzha – Departure. We continue toward one of the most evocative residences on the Black Sea.

04:15 p.m. Balchik – Arrival. Visit to the Balchik Palace and Gardens (admission included), the former summer residence of Queen Marie of Romania. Its terraces, pavilions, and seaside gardens create a uniquely romantic atmosphere.

05:30 p.m. Balchik – Departure.
06:15 p.m. Varna – Arrival. Bulgaria’s third largest city, Varna delights visitors with its lively downtown and extensive seaside park along the coast. Free time.

Varna – Madara – Shumen – Arbanassi – Veliko Tarnovo

Total distance covered: 260 km
Scenery: The route takes us from the Black Sea coast into the interior of Bulgaria, crossing fertile plains and forested hills that frame ancient fortresses and traditional villages.

Note: Comfortable footwear is recommended for the visit to Madara, and appropriate clothing for the visit to the mosque.

08:30 a.m. Varna – Departure. We leave the coast and immerse ourselves in Bulgaria’s medieval and spiritual history.

09:45 a.m. Madara – Arrival. Visit to the famous Madara Rider (admission included), an exceptional rock relief carved in the 8th century. Unique in Eastern Europe, it is considered a symbol of Bulgarian identity and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

11:00 a.m. Madara – Departure.

11:45 a.m. Shumen – Arrival. This city, significant during the Ottoman era and in Bulgaria’s national history, is home to its 18th-century mosque—the largest in the Balkans outside Turkey. Lunch included before continuing our journey.

01:45 p.m. Shumen – Departure.

04:00 p.m. Arbanassi – Arrival. This former merchant town is renowned for its fortress-like houses from the 16th and 17th centuries. We will visit the Church of the Nativity (admission included), famous for its interior frescoes, considered treasures of Bulgarian religious art.

05:15 p.m. Arbanassi – Departure.

05:30 p.m. Veliko Tarnovo – Arrival. The former capital of Bulgaria, it preserves a picturesque medieval quarter along the Yantra River gorge. Free time to stroll through its cobblestone streets, artisan shops, and historic corners.

Veliko Tarnovo - Dimitar Basarbovski - Bucharest

Total distance covered: 190 km.

Scenery: We’ll cross the Danube River as we pass through the border.

Note: Keep your passport handy, as it will be required at the Romanian border.

08:30 a.m. – Departure from Veliko Tarnovo.
10:00 a.m. - Basarbovski Monastery - We’ll visit this pilgrimage site, carved into the rock.

11:00 a.m. – Departure from Basarbovski. We’ll cross the border and the Danube; please be aware that there may be delays at the border.
12:45 p.m. - Bucharest. Time of arrival may change depending on border procedures. You’ll have free time for lunch upon arrival.

3:00 p.m., - City tour of Bucharest, featuring the historic center and the impressive Palace of Parliament. You´ll have free time afterward to explore the city at your leisure. Dinner will be included.

Bucharest - Sinaia - Bran - Sighisoara

Total distance covered: 325 km.

Scenery: Beautiful landscapes featuring the Carpathian Mountains and small, picturesque villages along the way.

Note: Sinaia is in the mountains, so we recommend warm clothes and comfortable shoes.

08:00 a.m. – Departure from Bucharest. We’ll leave the bustling metropolis and head toward the mountains, where we’ll enjoy beautiful Alpine landscapes.
10:30 a.m. - Sinaia. We’ll explore the gardens of the Peles and Pelisor Castles (we’ll only visit the gardens as the castle interiors are closed on Mondays).

12:00 p.m. – Departure from Sinaia. We’ll continue through high mountain regions.
01:00 p.m. - Bran - Arrival at the 14th-century fortress known as "Dracula’s Castle" (tickets included). You´ll have time for lunch and to explore the charming town center after.

03:30 p.m. – Departure from Bran. As we journey on, you’ll observe the unique architecture of some villages, reflecting the influence of German settlers in the region.
05:45 p.m. - Sighisoara - Arrival at this beautiful walled medieval city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tonight, where you´ll enjoy a special dinner at Count Dracula’s restaurant, located in the house where Vlad the Impaler was born.

Note: At times, due to heavy tourist traffic, there are long delays in accessing Bran Castle, which may cause a significant delay in the arrival time to Sighisoara.

Note: Hotel capacity in Sighisoara is limited. On certain dates, accommodation may be provided in Sibiu (departing from Sighisoara after dinner). In these cases, the stop in Biertan will be replaced with a visit to the city of Alba Iulia.

Sighișoara – Turda Salt Mine – Alba Iulia – Hunedoara – Sibiu

Total distance covered: 405 km
Scenery: Today we’ll cross the heart of Transylvania, traveling through rolling hills, vineyards, traditional villages, and majestic medieval fortresses rising above the landscape.

Note: The visit includes the interior of the Turda Salt Mine; warm clothing is recommended, as the temperature inside remains low throughout the year.

8:00 a.m. Sighișoara – Departure. We leave the medieval town and head to one of Europe’s most spectacular underground wonders.

10:00 a.m. Turda – Arrival. Visit to the spectacular Turda Salt Mine (entrance included), already used in Roman times and today transformed into a unique tourist and therapeutic center. Inside, we’ll discover an underground lake with boat rides, a Ferris wheel, and a main hall 80 meters high—a magical setting that feels like it belongs in a fantasy novel.

11:30 a.m. Turda – Departure.

12:45 p.m. Alba Iulia – Arrival. This city is a true symbol of Romanian history. We’ll stroll through the imposing Alba Carolina Citadel, built in the Vauban style, with its monumental walls, churches, and museums that tell the story of centuries past. It was here, in 1918, that the union of Transylvania with Romania was proclaimed, making Alba Iulia a powerful symbol of national identity. Free time to have lunch and explore the historic center.

2:45 p.m. Alba Iulia – Departure.

3:45 p.m. Hunedoara – Arrival. We’ll visit Corvin Castle (entrance included), one of the most impressive Gothic fortresses in Europe. Built in the 15th century, with its pointed towers, drawbridges, and stone walls, it resembles a fairy-tale castle and stands as a true medieval jewel.

5:00 p.m. Hunedoara – Departure.

6:45 p.m. Sibiu – Arrival. A city of German origin, Sibiu boasts a beautiful historic center with medieval squares and a vibrant cultural atmosphere. Overnight stay.

Sibiu – Cozia – Bucharest

Total distance covered: 286 km
Scenery: The journey takes us from the heart of Transylvania to the plains of Wallachia, crossing forested mountains, river gorges, and landscapes that blend nature with tradition.

Morning - Sibiu. Free time in Sibiu, the Saxon jewel of Transylvania and former cultural capital of the region. Its medieval squares —the Great Square, the Small Square, and Huet Square—, Gothic churches, and houses with their characteristic “eyes” on the rooftops create an urban ensemble of extraordinary charm, which earned it the title of European Capital of Culture in 2007. Its cobblestone streets and Central European atmosphere make Sibiu one of Romania’s most captivating destinations.

11:45 a.m. Sibiu – Departure.

1:15 p.m. Cozia – Arrival. Stop to visit the Cozia Monastery (entrance included), one of the oldest and most valuable in Wallachia, founded in the 14th century. Its Byzantine frescoes, the sober beauty of its architecture, and its natural setting framed by the mountains and the Olt River convey spirituality and devotion. Free time to stroll and have lunch in this spa town, popular with Romanians.

3:00 p.m. Cozia – Departure. We cross the last mountain stretches on our way to the capital.

6:15 p.m. Bucharest – Arrival in the Romanian capital.

After breakfast, our journey will come to an end, leaving you with wonderful lasting memories.

Note: Please be aware that the hotel check-out time is usually 10:00 a.m. You can leave your luggage in reception upon check-out, allowing you to explore the city without carrying your bags. You can retrieve your luggage at your convenience later in the day. If you require additional time to use your room, we recommend booking an extra night at the end of your tour.