Available languages
12 hours
Mobile ticket
In only a few hours this tour takes you from Bucharest to the foothills of the Balkan Mountains where the impressive medieval settlement of Veliko Tarnovo is located. The tour will start with a visit to the remarkable medieval capital of Veliko Tarnovo, built high on the surrounding hilltops, full of medieval charm.
Once you have explored Veliko Tarnovo and enjoyed lunch, the tour will continue to the city of Ruse, one of Bulgaria's most elegant cities, boasts a touch of Central European grandeur rarely found elsewhere in the country. It's a city embellished with grand belle époque buildings and carefully tended green squares, reminiscent of a petite piece of Vienna that has gracefully made its way down the Danube.
While exploring Romania, be sure not to overlook the incredible chance to explore Bulgaria, another enchanting destination easily accessible through guided day trips from Bucharest!
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
This activity requires a minimum of 4 participants. If this number not be reached, we'll get in touch with you to offer alternatives.
Please, make sure you owe all the necessary documents and permissions for crossing the border.
The duration of transfers are approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of the day and traffic conditions
Children under 4 years-old cannot join shared tours. Please contact us for a private tour offer
Entrance fees are not included - approximately 15 Euros or 29 leva (Bulgarian currency). The tickets can be purchased only in cash. Once you cross the border, there will be a stop at an exchange office
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle
Pick-up from selected central hotels in Bucharest
Professional tour guide
Entrance tickets
Optional Gratuities
Bucharest
The activity will start in downtown Bucharest.
Piaka Unirii
Pass by and admire the Unirii Square one of the largest public squares in Europe.
Pickup included
Friday departure
Pickup included
278 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Yogesh J,
Jun 22, 2025
- Viator
This was a wonderful trip. Though long and tiring, the trip allowed us to see Bulgaria, its countryside and some lovely towns and compare the country with Romania. The guide, Lucian, was fantastic. His knowledge, care, and great sense of humor made the trip particularly enjoyable. The border crossing into Bulgaria was a long and agonizing wait of more than 2 hours. But everything else went very well. The tour was well planned and carefully organized. I would certainly recommend this tour.
Ramin M,
Jun 12, 2025
- Viator
I really enjoyed listening to our guide, Lucien and the tour itself was ok. However, the bridge is under construction on the Bulgarian side, going one direction at a time, and while this is not the fault of the operator, it does add several frustrating hours to the journey,
Brittany S,
Jun 11, 2025
- Viator
Lunch time was rushed. We didn't have time to look around in shops afterwards. Bring snacks to keep on the bus to balance out time restraints. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable of the region. Only reason giving 3 stars is because we could've had an extra 30 minutes to look around after lunch. Traffic is pretty insane so, be prepared to sit in traffic even in rural areas. Traffic is probably why time is more limited due to return time. Good tour to see several things in a short amount of time.
Ken C,
Jun 7, 2025
- Viator
This tour was wonderful from the Fortress to the amazing city. It’s a great adventure and Helen was a great source of inspiration and information.
Jennifer H,
Jun 4, 2025
- Viator
It is a long day, but well worth it to see a second beautiful country on my Bucharest trip. Our guide shared great information about both Romania and Bulgaria and was helpful with suggestions of lunch establishments and what to do in the free time. She made it hassle- free and purchased our tickets for the fortress and church we visited without any upcharge.
Operated by Gray Line Romania