Eastern Europe Express

Intrepid Travel Premier
Has very high quality customer experiences and demonstrated commitment to responsible travel practices. read more
4.6 . Excellent
94%
Travel Style: Array Mixed
Physical Level: Walking or physical activity half to most of day - no carrying equipment. Easy
Lodging Level: Mid-range budget with accommodations ranging from comfortable lodges, guesthouses, and homestays to three star hotels. Value (3*)
9 days
From: $ 1,658 $ 184 / day
Checking price

Overview

Highlights (Bullets)

  • Immerse yourself in the communist past and vibrant present of Bucharest, a city often underrated by travellers
  • Travel through the scenic Rila Mountains in Bulgaria, mingling with monks at the 10th-century Rila Monastery
  • Experience the romantic "time travel" back to the 20-th century by taking a trip on the last operational narrow gauge line in Bulgaria on route from Bansko to Plovdiv.
  • Explore the amphitheatre and Plovdiv's other significant sights on a guided walking tour.
  • Breathe the crisp air on a hike and take in stunning view in the Pirin Mountain.
  • Stand in awe of the exquisite architectual design of Selimiye Mosque and celebrate the end of your journey in the transcontinental Istanbul.

Short Description

Embark on a spectacular journey from Romania and through Bulgaria to Istanbul, discovering the architectural grandeur and quaint cultural enclaves that make this such an intriguing part of the world. Absorb Bucharest’s austere atmosphere on a guided walking tour, compare age-old places of worship in Sofia, breathe in crisp alpine air on a hike in the Pirin Mountains, and meander back in time in the Old Town of Plovdiv. and bask in the glory of transcontinental Istanbul. Relatively short in terms of distance travelled, this nine-day trip is a fascinating study in just how much regions can change as you cross national borders.

Style Small group tour
Off the beaten track trips will stretch your comfort zone. They don't always feature tourist highlights, but dive deeper into local life and culture.
Itinerary Focus Off the Beaten Path
Mid-range budget with accommodations ranging from comfortable lodges, guesthouses, and homestays to three star hotels.
Lodging Level Value (3*)
Flight & Transport Inclusions All internal ground transport
Start City Bucharest
End City Istanbul

Destinations

Turkey Romania Bulgaria

Attractions & Cities Visited

Bucharest Istanbul Romania Sofia

Activities & Interests

Culture Historic sightseeing

Age Requirement

15-99

No Single Supplement
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Itinerary

Day 1 Bucharest

Salut! Welcome to Romania. Bucharest, Romania's capital city, likes big things. It's home to one of Europe's biggest squares and its Palace of Parliament is the second largest building in the world. It's worth arriving into the city a few days early to explore. Perhaps take a tour of the Palace of Parliament (former dictator Nicolae Ceauşescu ordered the construction of this 12-storied monster, a building of staggering scale and opulence that includes 1,100 rooms and 4,500 chandeliers), or visit his former luxurious residence where he lived with the family. You might even like to partake in one of our Urban Adventure day trips, such as the "Bohemian Bucharest tour".  Our adventure begins with a important welcome meeting at 6 pm, where you'll meet your group leader and fellow travellers. Afterwards, why not seek out some traditional Romanian fare with the group.

Day 2 Veliko Tarnovo

Travel by train across the friendship bridge into Bulgaria and on to the picturesque town of Veliko Tarnovo. Veliko Tarnovo's history is incredible. Founded in 4500 BC by the Neolithic people, the Romans later built the first fortress walls and in the 6th century a Byzantine capital was established on Tsarevets Hill by Emperor Justinian. After the foundation of the second Bulgarian empire in 1185, it became the second most important and beautiful city in the region (after Constantinople) and trade and culture flourished for the next 200 years. In 1393 the town fell to the Turks who held the city until the Russians liberated it in 1877. Because of its importance during the second Bulgarian empire, the city was chosen as the place where the Bulgarian constitution was written in 1879 and where the official proclamation of Bulgaria as an independent state was made in 1908.

Day 3 Veliko Tarnovo

This morning join your leader for a visit to Veliko Tarnovo's imposing Tsarevets Fortress which overlooks the city. This once-magnificent fortress was first built in the 7th century and the ruined citadel is a delight to wander through. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the City of Tsars. Wander through the Old Quarter with its preserved Renaissance houses and handicraft workshops before relaxing in one of the town's cafes or 'vinarnas' (wine bars).

Day 4 Sofia

In a morning, take a public bus (3 hrs approximately) to Sofia. Bulgaria's capital is a cosmopolitan city with wide tree-lined boulevards and pleasant parks. You've got the rest of the day to wander, so maybe begin with a browse around the cured meats and cheese of the Central Market Hall, then take a walk through the city and see the gold-domed Alexander Nevski Church. You might want to sate your cultural curiosity at the National History Museum, discover artefacts from the many empires of old that have occupied the city at the National Archaeological Museum, or get cultural at the National Art Gallery.

Day 5 Bansko

Today journey into the Rila Mountains, where you'll visit the impressive Rila Monastery. Tucked away in a valley, this World Heritage-listed site is the largest and holiest of Bulgaria's orthodox monasteries. It was founded in 927 to keep Bulgarian spiritual and social life alive during Turkish rule. The entire monastery complex is a work of art in itself – check out stunning murals, the 14th-century Hrelyo Tower, the five-domed Birth of the Blessed Virgin Church and the original 19th-century monastery kitchen. Then onto Bansko. Set at the base of the majestic Pirin Mountains, Bansko is home to more than 150 cultural monuments. Down its cobbled streets, many of its stone houses have been transformed into charming ‘mehanes’ (taverns). Wander through pl. Vazrazhdane and check out the frescoes of the Church of Sveta Troitsa, or the paintings in the Rilski Convent. In the evening, you'll have the opportunity to indulge in some local cuisine. Try filet elena (spicy cured meat) or kapama (simmered meat, rice and sauerkraut), washing it down with some delicious melnik (dark red wine).

Day 6 Plovdiv

In the morning, drive to Vihren Chalet (45 mins approximately) from where you start the moderate hike in the Pirin Mountains to a small but picturesque lake Okoto (2000m above the sea level). Enjoy the clear views over the stunning valley with Mt Vihren, the range's highest peak, visible to the west. Total walking distance is 2 km with 102 m elevation gain and it takes about one hour depending on fitness and trail conditions. Those who want to challenge it a bit more can continue to Banderitsko lake, your leader willl help with suggesting the route. If you don't wish to hike can stay in Bansko and visit it's thermal baths. In the afternoon board scenic and only operational narrow gauge line in Bulgaria - Rhodope railway from Bansko to Septemvri from where continue by another to Plovdiv. Situated on the Maritsa River, Plovdiv was once the meeting point of two ancient transportation routes. In the evening, make sure you indulge in the local cuisine, famed for its grilled meats and vegetables on skewers.

Day 7 Plovdiv

This morning, join a local guide for a tour of the main sights and some insight into the town's history. The most remarkable sight is the ancient Roman theatre, accidentally ‘discovered’ after a landslide exposed the site in the early 1970s. Built in the 2nd century BC during the reign of Trajanus, the theatre seats about 6,000 people and is now back in use. From here, wander up to the site of the former hilltop fortress of Nebet Tepe, where you can enjoy excellent views of the city. Head back down to visit the 15th-century Dzhumaya Mosque, still in use today. Enjoy a free afternoon in this charming city.

Day 8 Istanbul

Get ready for a long day of travel that takes you from Europe to Asia. Stop at Edirne right after crossing the border and visit the magnificent Selimiye Mosque. Edirne was the first capital of the Ottoman empire and the exquisite Selimiye Mosque was built by order of Sultan Selim II over 400 years ago and represents the highest achievement of Ottoman architect Mimar Sinan’s work, arguably the most beautiful mosque in Turkey. Then continue onto the final destination of your journey, Istanbul, the continent-straddling metropolis that the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Ottomans have called home. Have some free time after arrival. In the evening, maybe join your new friends for an optional dinner and bask in the beauty of a real Turkish kebab.

Day 9 Istanbul

All good things come to an end, and this morning your adventure officially comes to a close. If you would like to extend your stay in Istanbul we are able to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).

Availability

Checking price
Price From $ 1,658
Price Per Day: $ 184 per day
Checking price
Start DateFinish DateBase PriceAvailability 
Jun-05-2023Jun-13-2023$ 1,658Sold Out Reserve
Jun-12-2023Jun-20-2023$ 1,7736 spots left Reserve
Jun-19-2023Jun-27-2023$ 1,8903 spots left Reserve
Jun-26-2023Jul-04-2023$ 1,7105 spots left Reserve
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Jul-24-2023Aug-01-2023$ 1,9502 spots left Reserve
Aug-07-2023Aug-15-2023$ 1,8058 spots left Reserve
Aug-14-2023Aug-22-2023$ 1,8404 spots left Reserve
Aug-21-2023Aug-29-2023$ 1,9353 spots left Reserve
Sep-04-2023Sep-12-2023$ 2,045Sold Out Reserve
Sep-08-2023Sep-16-2023$ 1,9508 spots left Reserve
Sep-11-2023Sep-19-2023$ 1,9507 spots left Reserve
Sep-18-2023Sep-26-2023$ 2,1402 spots left Reserve
Sep-25-2023Oct-03-2023$ 1,9354 spots left Reserve
Sep-29-2023Oct-07-2023$ 1,8808 spots left Reserve
Oct-09-2023Oct-17-2023$ 1,8604 spots left Reserve
Oct-16-2023Oct-24-2023$ 1,985Sold Out Reserve
Apr-15-2024Apr-23-2024$ 1,84011 spots left Reserve
Apr-29-2024May-07-2024$ 1,84012 spots left Reserve
May-06-2024May-14-2024$ 1,84012 spots left Reserve
May-13-2024May-21-2024$ 1,91512 spots left Reserve
May-20-2024May-28-2024$ 1,91512 spots left Reserve
May-27-2024Jun-04-2024$ 1,99012 spots left Reserve
Jun-03-2024Jun-11-2024$ 1,99012 spots left Reserve
Jun-10-2024Jun-18-2024$ 1,99012 spots left Reserve
Jun-17-2024Jun-25-2024$ 1,99012 spots left Reserve
Jun-24-2024Jul-02-2024$ 1,99012 spots left Reserve
Jun-28-2024Jul-06-2024$ 1,91512 spots left Reserve
Jul-01-2024Jul-09-2024$ 1,91512 spots left Reserve
Jul-15-2024Jul-23-2024$ 1,84012 spots left Reserve
Jul-29-2024Aug-06-2024$ 1,84012 spots left Reserve
Aug-05-2024Aug-13-2024$ 1,84012 spots left Reserve
Aug-12-2024Aug-20-2024$ 1,84012 spots left Reserve
Aug-19-2024Aug-27-2024$ 1,91512 spots left Reserve
Aug-26-2024Sep-03-2024$ 1,91512 spots left Reserve
Sep-02-2024Sep-10-2024$ 1,99012 spots left Reserve
Sep-06-2024Sep-14-2024$ 1,99012 spots left Reserve
Sep-09-2024Sep-17-2024$ 1,99012 spots left Reserve
Sep-16-2024Sep-24-2024$ 1,99012 spots left Reserve
Sep-23-2024Oct-01-2024$ 1,91512 spots left Reserve
Sep-27-2024Oct-05-2024$ 1,91512 spots left Reserve
Oct-07-2024Oct-15-2024$ 1,91512 spots left Reserve
Oct-14-2024Oct-22-2024$ 1,84012 spots left Reserve
Oct-21-2024Oct-29-2024$ 1,84012 spots left Reserve
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Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Intrepid Travel.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

4,325 Intrepid Travel Travel Reviews & Ratings

94%
4.6 out of 5 (100+ reviews)
Excellent 3,265
Great 678
Average 136
Disappointing 71
Terrible 175
Value
4.6
Guide
4.6
Activities
4.6
Lodging
4.6
Transportation
4.6
Meals
4.6

Eastern Europe Express

The tour was exactly what I had

5.0
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
The tour was exactly what I had hoped for

See comment on feed-back for Albania, Kosovo

4.0
Details
Value4.0
Guide4.0
Activities4.0
Lodging4.0
Transportation4.0
Meals4.0
See comment on feed-back for Albania, Kosovo, Macedonia trip which immediately preceded this trip.

Met all our expectations.

5.0
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
Met all our expectations.

The tour lived up to expectations and

5.0
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
The tour lived up to expectations and was enjoyable to be on

As per previous feedback

5.0
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
As per previous feedback

great tour leader..............great locations,,,,,,,,,,,well organized

5.0
Details
Value5.0
Guide5.0
Activities5.0
Lodging5.0
Transportation5.0
Meals5.0
great tour leader..............great locations,,,,,,,,,,,well organized,,,,,,,,,,,

Details

Flight & Transport Inclusions

All internal ground transport Train,Public Bus,Private vehicle,Metro,Taxi

Group Size

Small Group - 24 max

Maximum Number of People in Group: 12

Accommodations

Hotel (8 nights)

Guides

All Intrepid group trips in Europe are accompanied by one of our local European group leaders. ’Local’ in this context means a leader who is European or lives in Europe. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. Intrepid endeavours to provide the services of an experienced leader however, due to the seasonality of travel, rare situations may arise where your leader is new to a particular region or training other group leaders. Your leader takes care of logistics, will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the places visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. At Intrepid we also aim to support local guides in the individual cities or locations we travel to. If you are interested in delving deeper into the local culture at a specific site or location then your leader can recommend an optional local guide service in most of the main destinations of your trip.

Age Notes :

Min. Age: 15

Max Age: 99

Additional Information

Finish point

  • Manesol Galata Hotel
  • Arap Cami Mh., Billur Sk., 34421 Beyoğlu/İstanbul
  • Istanbul
  • TURKEY

Trip ID#:

intrepid-WMSI

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