The Best of Serbia, Romania and Bulgaria

The Best of Serbia, Romania and Bulgaria: Serbia – Romania – Bulgaria

EXPERIENCE MORE is at the core of our travel philosophy, elevating each tour beyond the ordinary. These carefully curated moments enrich our itineraries, offering deeper insights and unique perspectives of every destination. From exclusive cultural encounters to hidden local gems, EXPERIENCE MORE ensures each journey is unforgettable and engaging.

Some of our experiences included in the tour:

- Belgrade Sundown Cruise Day 2
- Transfăgărășan Scenic Road Day 5
- Etar Traditional Crafts Day 10

Day 1: Welcome to Belgrade

Belgrade

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.

Overnight: Belgrade

Day 2: Vibrant Capital of Serbia

Belgrade

On your first day in Serbia, you will embark on a walking and driving tour around Belgrade, starting at Knez Mihailova Street, the city’s bustling pedestrian zone, filled with shops, cafes, and historic buildings. The capital is well known for its architectural styles, dynamic history and one of the biggest river confluences in Europe.

EXPERIENCE MORE / Serbian Morning Routine: Your guide will take you to a hidden gem close to the main district, the city’s oldest tavern intriguingly known as ”?” (Question Mark), where you’ll try Serbia’s most cherished traditional drinks: coffee and rakija. Engage in lively conversation with your guide, who will share fascinating stories about local customs and the UNESCO-protected art of making ”šljivovica”, Serbia’s renowned plum brandy.

Having started the day like a true local, we will walk through the historical Belgrade Fortress and Kalemegdan Park, and be amazed by the view of the mighty Sava and Danube rivers. This vantage point offers a striking contrast in Belgrade, where the old meets the modern and land merges with the flowing water.

Crossing Branko’s Bridge into New Belgrade, our panorama tour begins. You’ll experience the bold Brutalism architecture and see the emerging Belgrade Waterfront, a symbol of the city’s modern transformation. Continuing the journey, you’ll gain insight into Serbia’s past, from its 19th century struggle for independence to its turbulent 1990s. Our panoramic journey through Belgrade showcases its rich history and dynamic future, from the iconic Ada Bridge to the elite Dedinje residential area and the Museum of Yugoslavia. We’ll stop for a visit and devote time to the impressive Temple of Saint Sava, the symbol of the city and the fourth-largest Orthodox temple in the world, adorned with stunning mosaics.

Our tour concludes in the lively heart of Serbia’s bustling capital – The Republic Square, having offered you an insight into both the city’s and the country’s diverse culture, heritage, and history. But the day isn’t over yet – get ready to experience Belgrade from a whole new perspective, offering a waterway panorama that ties together everything you’ve discovered so far.

EXPERIENCE MORE / Belgrade Sundown Cruise: As the day winds down, set sail on an enchanting river cruise through Belgrade, where the grand Sava and Danube Rivers unveil the city’s splendour. Cruise past iconic landmarks, absorb the vibrant riverside ambience and feel the soothing evening breeze as you take in the stunning views of Belgrade’s skyline, bridges, and historic landmarks.

Overnight: Belgrade

Day 3: Treasures of Vojvodina

Belgrade – Fruška Gora – Sremski Karlovci – Novi Sad – Belgrade

Today, you will explore the most interesting sights of Vojvodina, a province in northern Serbia. You will be driven through picturesque scenery and Serbia’s famous wine region towards Fruška Gora NP, the ”Serbian Holy Land”, which is home to 17 functioning Serbian Orthodox monasteries. You will visit the well-preserved Krušedol Monastery, hear captivating stories from the monks, and immerse yourself in the monastery’s rich history.

The tour continues on to town of Sremski Karlovci. A real gem of Serbian culture and spirituality, Sremski Karlovci feels like a ”museum town” with its Baroque centre, the Patriarchal Court, the Orthodox Cathedral of Saint Nicholas and the first Serbian secondary school (gymnasium). With its rich winemaking tradition and historical significance, the city stands as one of the focal points for Serbian wine culture.

EXPERIENCE MORE / Wines of Fruška Gora: Step into the enchanting world of the Fruška Gora wine region, renowned for its centuries-old winemaking heritage. Nestled amidst picturesque vineyards and rolling hills, this area is home to some of Serbia’s finest wines. At one of its local wineries, you’ll enjoy a delightful array of wines that perfectly showcase the region’s diversity and craftsmanship. Don’t miss trying locally produced Bermet, an internationally acclaimed Serbian wine that famously graced the tables of the iconic Titanic as a cherished delicacy.

Your next stop will be Novi Sad, the vibrant capital of Vojvodina and 2021 European Capital of Culture. This multicultural gem is renowned for hosting EXIT, Southeast Europe’s largest music festival. Wander through its lively pedestrian zone, where historic landmarks like the City Hall and the old city centre blend with cultural sites, including the former home of Albert Einstein’s wife Mileva and the city’s historic synagogue. Explore the impressive Petrovaradin Fortress, often called “Danube’s Gibraltar”, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Danube River and the cityscape, perfect for capturing unforgettable moments.

After a short drive, you will return back to Belgrade and enjoy the rest of your evening.

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.

Overnight: Belgrade

Day 4: Banat to Transylvania

Belgrade – Timișoara – Sibiu

Your Serbian part of the tour ends after check-out, and the tour continues to Timișoara, the largest city in western Romania, known for its rich cultural influences and distinctive charm. Nestled on the northern bank of the River Bega, Timișoara is often referred to as ”Little Vienna” due to its unique architectural character and vibrant cultural life. The tour begins at Unirii Square, featuring medieval buildings and the Catholic Cathedral of Saint George, before moving on to Liberty Square and Victory Square, home to the Romanian National Opera and National Theatre.

As we continue our journey, take the time to soak in the picturesque landscapes of Transylvania. The stunning Carpathian Mountains in the distance will add to the enchanting scenery, making this ride a truly memorable experience.

Your day ends with a tour of Sibiu, once the largest and wealthiest of the seven fortified towns established by German settlers in the 12th century. Now celebrated for its rich history, Sibiu was home to Romania’s first hospital and pharmacy. The city’s thriving trade guilds financed magnificent buildings and fortifications, playing a crucial role in shaping its timeless charm. Today, medieval walls still encircle the old town, where narrow streets weave past historical landmarks, including the Large Square with the Brukenthal Museum – Romania’s oldest museum, the Small Square, the Council Tower, the Bridge of Lies, the Stairs Passage, and the Orthodox Cathedral of the Holy Trinity, inspired by Hagia Sophia.

Check-in to your hotel, and rest well before the tour continues.

Overnight: Sibiu

Day 5: Transylvania Unveiled

Sibiu – “Astra” National Museum Complex – Transfăgărășan Road – Sinaia

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 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.

Overnight: Sinaia

Day 6: The Castles of Transylvania

Sinaia – Peles Castle – Brașov – Bran Castle – Sinaia

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 13^th 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 13^th 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.

Overnight: Sinaia

Day 7: From Vineyards to Capital

Sinaia – Dealu Mare Wine Region – Bucharest

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 / Transfăgărășan Scenic Road: 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-into your hotel and enjoy some free time to explore this vibrant city.

Overnight: Bucharest

Day 8: “The Little Paris”

Bucharest

Famous for its wide, tree-lined boulevards and magnificent Belle Époque architecture, Bucharest earned the nickname ”The Little Paris” in the early 1900s due to its vibrant social scene. While exploring this magnificent city adorned with parks, you will see the fascinating blend of French, Byzantine and communist architecture in the many stylish buildings.

You will visit all of the city’s best-known sights, including the Piața Unirii for a view of the colossal Palace of the Parliament, the second-largest building in the world, after the Pentagon. From there, the tour continues to the medieval Old Town, one of Bucharest’s oldest settlements, where you will see the Old Princely Court and its church, the peaceful Stavropoleos Monastery, Lipscani Street and the National Museum of Romanian History.

When you arrive at Revolution Square, you’ll delve into the story of what communist rule meant for Romania and discover how this historic square earned its name. Don’t forget to snap a photo in front of the many important landmarks that stand as silent witnesses to the city’s tumultuous past.

Check-in to the hotel and free time to enjoy the evening in this charming town. Overnight.

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.

Overnight: Bucharest

Day 9: Introduction to Bulgaria

Bucharest – Veliko Tarnovo – Arbanasi

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.

Overnight: Bucharest

Day 10: Traditions and Craftsmanship

Arbanasi – Etar Ethno Village – Valley of Roses – Plovdiv

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.

Overnight: Plovdiv

Day 11: Sofia’s Cultural Fusion

Plovdiv – Sofia

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.

Overnight: Sofia

Day 12: Farewell, Sofia

Sofia

After hotel check-out, it is time to conclude your Balkan tour. As most of our clients decide to extend their trip within their own organisation, transfer to the airport at the end of the tour is not included in the overall price. Any guests who would like Balkan&more to organise a departure transfer on their behalf are welcome to contact us. End of services.

*Private tours are available upon request. Private departures can be scheduled on any day of the year. For more information, please contact us via office@serbia-touroperator.com.

General inclusions // Valid both for Standard and Superior Package:

- - Airport arrival transfer
  - All sightseeing tours and transfers that are written in this program, except those marked as optional tours
  - Entrance tickets to the Museum of Yugoslav History, monastery Krušedol, “Astra” National Museum Complex, Bran Castle, Peleș Castle and Open Air Ethnographic Museum “Etar”
  - Experiences:
    Coffee & rakija in a Belgrade tavern (Serbian Morning Routine); Sava and Danube Rivers Cruise (Belgrade Sundown Cruise); Wine tasting in a local winery in Northern Serbia (Wines of Fruška Gora); Cable car ride in the Carpathian Mountains in Romania (Transfăgărășan Scenic Road); Wine tasting in a local winery in Dealu Mare region of Romania (Carpathian Wines); Visit to the ethno village in Bulgaria (Rural Roots of Bulgaria); Natural and handmade herbal cosmetics making experience in an open-air ethnographic museum in Bulgaria (Etar Traditional Crafts)
    
    *Optional experience: Dinner in an Art Noveau restaurant in Bucharest (not included in the price)
  - 1 bottle of water (0.5l) daily for each passenger
  - Professional tour guidance throughout the tour
  - VAT, accommodation taxes and city taxes
  - Tour logistics and organization by licensed incoming agency

STANDARD package – Price includes:

3 BB in Belgrade in Royal Inn 4* / Mercure Excelsior 4* / Central Point 4* or similar
1 BB in Sibiu in Hotel Best Western Silva 4* / Hotel Continental Forum 4* / Hotel Mercure Sibiu Airport 4* or similar
2 BB in Sinaia in Sinaia 4* / Anda 4* / Vila Economat 4* or similar
2 BB in Bucharest in Capitol 4* / Leonardo 4* / Mercure Bucharest City Center 4* or similar
1 BB in Arbanasi / Veliko Tarnovo in Arbanaski Han 4* / Yantra Grand 4* or similar
1 BB in Plovdiv in Grand Plovdiv 4*/ Holiday Inn 4* / Best Western Premier Plovdiv Hills 4* or similar
1 BB in Sofia in Central Sofia 4* / Coop 4* / Abrazo Sofia 4* or similar

SUPERIOR package – Price includes:

3 BB in Belgrade in Envoy 4* / Museum 4* / Moskva 4* or similar
1 BB in Sibiu in Radisson Blu 4* / Art 4* / Hilton Sibiu 5* or similar
2 BB in Sinaia in International 4* / Vila Economat / Boutique Vila La Kastel 4* or similar
2 BB in Bucharest in Grand Continental 5* / Novotel Bucharest City Center 4* / Mercure Bucharest City Center 4* or similar
1 BB in Arbanasi / Veliko Tarnovo in Arbanaski Han 4* / Yantra Grand 4* or similar
1 BB in Plovdiv in Double Tree by Hilton 4* / Imperial Plovdiv 4* / Este Park 4*
1 BB in Sofia in Grand Sofia 5* / Sense Sofia 5* / Crystal Palace Boutique Sofia 4* or similar

BOOK THE TOUR

Notices

Prices for single and triple room; Child policy

Standard package supplements:

1/1 Room supplement (on basic price): €550 in Regular season
1/3 Room reduction (per person on basic price): – €60 in Regular season

Superior package supplements:

1/1 Room supplement (on basic price): €800 in Regular season
1/3 Room reduction (per person on basic price): – €80 in Regular season

Child policy (related to both packages):

Child from 0 to 2 years old – FREE of charge.
Child from 2 to 12 years old, in existing bed – 50% discount on basic price.
Child from 2 to 12 years old, in extra bed – 1/3 Room Reduction Policy.
Child from 12 years old and above – 1/3 Room Reduction Policy.

Important tour information

Tour duration: 12 days.
Tips and porterage services are not included in price.
Final choice of the hotels depends on current availability. Tour organizer reserves the right to change the hotel due to availability reasons, but warrants the same category, service quality and similar location of the accommodation unit.
Minimum number of passengers needed for guaranteed tour departure: 1.
Tour organizer reserves the right to change the itinerary of the tour due to unexpected slow-moving traffic at international borders. These changes will not affect the basic itinerary.
It is the responsibility of the passengers to get acquainted with visa requirements of all the countries they are travelling to or will be in transit
General Travel Conditions issued on January 25, 2020 by “Tour Operator doo” and reconciled with YUTA standards are valid for this program.

Cancellation by the Passenger

If you or any member of your party wishes to cancel your tour, you should notify us or the travel agent you made the booking with, in written. If you cancel the tour we will then apply refund policy as defined below. Cancellation schedule will be applied starting the date of written notification receipt. The refund amounts shown represent a percentage of the total tour price.

For cancellation up to 60 days before departure – 100% refund.
For cancellation from 59 days till 46 days before departure – 90% refund.
For cancellation from 45 days till 31 days before departure – 80% refund.
For cancellation from 30 days till 16 days before departure – 70% refund.
For cancellation from 15 days till 8 days before departure – 50% refund.
For cancellation from 7 days till the day of departure – 0% refund.

Beside all standard reasons, the above stated cancellation policy will also apply if tour participant cancels the tour for a reason with medical grounds, visa issuance, jury service etc.