Bucharest to Bulgaria: Unforgettable Balkan Day Trip
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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!
Reviews
Reviews and Rating (Tripadvisor)
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Reviews by Tripadvisor travelers
nadine_z, 10/31/2025 4:19:50 PM
We had a wonderful trip and our guide Roberto was great. Would recommend. Long trip but they take breaks bathroom etc
857viviennew, 10/26/2025 2:31:37 PM
Lucian was an excellent tour guide. Hugely knowledgeable and engaging. We certainly learned lots about the history of Romania and Bulgaria today. The logistics of the long full day tour were superbly managed, with regular comfort breaks. Would highly recommend
Elizabeth_N, 10/21/2025 8:46:16 PM
It was a great way for a day trip to Bulgaria. Our guide Narcis was so friendly and informative! The driver was very safe.
Henry_R, 10/19/2025 1:29:37 PM
Depending on the time of year the traveling takes place (autumn, winter) make sure to have warm clothes, because even though it may be a bit fresh or cool enroute to Bulgaria, the weather changes unexpectedly, especially when visiting the Fortress at such a high elevation. Add the fact that while visiting other places of interest or shopping, all tourism will be done outside with a few places to keep warm if the cold weather sets in.
Kyle_S, 10/15/2025 1:52:46 AM
It was a great day trip! Lucian was amazing and very detailed and had a lot of great historical facts to share.
Kenneth_J, 10/14/2025 12:07:59 PM
Roberto was an excellent tour guide and showed us the sights of Veliko Tarnovo, Arbanasi, and Ruse. Veliko Tarnovo was the highlight of the tour. I enjoyed seeing the medieval church and city walls. Also, the town itself had a lot of character. Had an excellent Bulgarian stew for lunch in one of the local restaurants. Would definitely take the tour again if given the chance.
Christopher W, 10/11/2025 12:20:30 PM
The only thing keeping this excursion from being 5 stars is the mini bus! That vehicle was cramped with tiny seats and legroom for anyone under 5 feet 8 inches! You felt every bump and Bulgaria has a lot! Our guide spoke excellent English and our stops were amazing. The towns were absolutely stunning and my photos are incredible. Plenty of time given to explore and have lunch on your own but also well organized as to where to meet and when to leave. There were only 13 on our tour which was perfect. A must do tour! We returned at a reasonable hour as well, around 5:15pm.
Bridgette127, 10/8/2025 3:35:48 PM
Our guide Lucien was very informative and fun. While it was quite a long day, it was fun. My only suggestion would be to slow down some on the driving and passing as it made me very nervous, especially in the rain.
Amanda_M, 10/8/2025 1:08:24 PM
This was a nice day trip from Bucharest, and a good way to see a little bit of another country. The church and Freedom Square in Ruse were lovely. Veliko Tarnovo was really amazing. Tsaravets Fortress was incredible. The town has beautiful views over the hills and valley, and a lot of shops and restaurants in which to pass the time.
meirdkl_d, 10/4/2025 3:11:16 AM
Trip by Gray Line Romania- 27.9.2025 was very good . By guide Robert . who gave a lot of Interesting information during the trip to Bulgaria and back to Buchrest . Realy one man show. driver and a guide. kudos! You get here what you paid for!
- 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 alternative dates or trips.
- Please, make sure you owe all the necessary documents and permissions for crossing the border.
- Please be advised that delays are currently occurring at the Giurgiu–Ruse border crossing due to ongoing repair work on the Bulgarian side of the Friendship Bridge. Traffic is restricted to a single lane and operates alternately with traffic lights, leading to longer waiting times and traffic queues.
- 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
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Redemption
Upon arrival at your hotel in Bucharest, you may confirm your departure details via email: booking@grayline.ro Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.24 hours before travel date - 100% refund
Less than 24 hours before travel date - 0% refund