{"id":23638,"date":"2023-07-07T07:13:27","date_gmt":"2023-07-07T07:13:27","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/thebalkantours.com\/?post_type=holidays&p=23638"},"modified":"2024-12-11T06:56:51","modified_gmt":"2024-12-11T06:56:51","slug":"best-of-serbia-romania-and-bulgaria","status":"publish","type":"holidays","link":"https:\/\/thebalkantours.com\/holidays\/best-of-serbia-romania-and-bulgaria\/","title":{"rendered":"Best of Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":8,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":true},"class_list":["post-23638","holidays","type-holidays","status-publish","hentry","holidays_category-small-group-tours"],"acf":{"main_site_title":"","tagline":"Discover the Best of Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria on this mesmerizing journey through the Balkan's hidden gems, incredible flavors and historic sites.","cover_image":23980,"has_page":true,"pay_in_installments":false,"custom_product_link":"","custom_product_pop_up":"","custom_text_badge":"","youtube_video":"","product_gallery":[23977,23975,23969,24005,17172,24006],"product_description":"Immerse yourself in the unparalleled journey that traverses the cultural and\u00a0historical heart of the Balkans<\/strong>.\r\n\r\nOften overlooked, the countries of Serbia, Romania and Bulgaria are a true haven for history buffs \u2013 from Serbia\u2019s lively capital of\u00a0Belgrade<\/strong>\u00a0with its blend of modern vibrancy and historic soul to the Baroque beauty of\u00a0Novi Sad\u00a0<\/strong>and the serene sanctity of its monasteries, every step unveils a\u00a0unique narrative<\/strong>.\r\n\r\nRomania greets you with medieval fortresses and the legends of\u00a0Transylvania<\/strong>, where echoes of\u00a0Vlad the Impaler<\/strong>\u00a0linger.\r\n\r\nThe romance of Romania extends into its\u00a0wine routes\u00a0<\/strong>and bustling\u00a0Bucharest<\/strong>, blending old-world charm with an urban buzz.\r\n\r\nCrossing into\u00a0Bulgaria<\/strong>, a land where ancient heritage meets contemporary creativity, the picturesque towns like Veliko Tarnovo and Plovdiv beckon with their\u00a0rich pasts and artistic communities<\/strong>, and\u00a0Sofia<\/strong>, with its awe-inspiring cathedrals and diverse historical layers, rounds off this exceptional journey.\r\n\r\nWe have crafted this tour to ensure you have a\u00a0stress-free experience<\/strong>. With expertly organized accommodations, guided tours brimming with local insights, and round-the-clock support, your only focus will be\u00a0savoring each moment.<\/strong>\r\n\r\nJoin us for an adventure that unveils the\u00a0forgotten gems of Europe<\/strong>, where memories are crafted through every taste, sight, and journey across these awe-inspiring lands.","price":"2160","hide_price":false,"highlights_new":"Discover the dynamic pulse of Belgrade\r\n\r\nStep back in time at Romania\u2019s majestic castles and UNESCO-listed cities\r\n\r\nRelish the unique wine flavors of Serbia\u2019s Fru\u0161ka Gora and Romania\u2019s Dealu Mare\r\n\r\nWander Bucharest\u2019s blend of Belle \u00c9poque grandeur and medieval charm\r\n\r\nUncover the heritage and artful corners of Sofia\r\n\r\nExperience warm hospitality and indulge in traditional Balkan cuisine","included_new":"","included_guided":[{"add_included_guided":"Airport arrival transfer"},{"add_included_guided":"Confortable transportation as per the itinerary "},{"add_included_guided":"11 nights 3*\/4* accommodation with breakfast"},{"add_included_guided":"Professional English-speaking tour guidance throughout the tour"},{"add_included_guided":"Entrance Tickets and Experiences as per itinerary"},{"add_included_guided":"Accommodation taxes and city taxes"},{"add_included_guided":"Tour logistics and organization"},{"add_included_guided":"VAT"}],"not_included_guided":null,"included_self_guided":null,"not_included_self_guided":null,"included_footnote":"","not_included_new":"","faq":null,"itinerary_name_primary":"","itinerary":[{"day_headline":"Day 1: Arrival in Belgrade","day_description":"Upon arrival in Belgrade,\u00a0transfer to your hotel in New Belgrade<\/strong>. After check-in, take some time to rest and prepare for your trip. In the evening, you will meet your guide for an introduction to the journey. Head out to\u00a0explore the historic quarter of Skadarlija<\/strong>, known for its traditional eateries and charming ambiance and prepare for your night in Belgrade.","itinnerary_gallery":[17437,17139,23869],"included":"","meals":"","extra":"","itinerary_highlight":"","itinerary_highlight_with_link":"","itinerary_activity":"","itinerary_accomodation":"","select_accommodations_posts":"","itinerary_things_to_do":"","itinerary_hiking":"","itinerary_cycling":""},{"day_headline":"Day 2: Belgrade Sightseeing","day_description":"Today, you\u2019ll uncover the history of Belgrade at the\u00a0Museum of Yugoslav History\u00a0<\/strong>and the magnificent Temple of Saint Sava. You\u2019ll explore\u00a0Slavija Square, Saint Mark's Church<\/strong>, and the\u00a0Serbian National Parliament<\/strong>, as well as the famed Knez Mihailo Street, and the awe-inspiring\u00a0Kalemegdan Park and Belgrade Fortress<\/strong>. The rest of the day is free for you to further explore the city.","itinnerary_gallery":[17135,17605,23865],"included":"Visit to the city\u2019s oldest tavern & traditional breakfast drinks\r\n\r\nSunset river cruise","meals":"","extra":"","itinerary_highlight":"","itinerary_highlight_with_link":"","itinerary_activity":"","itinerary_accomodation":"","select_accommodations_posts":"","itinerary_things_to_do":"","itinerary_hiking":"","itinerary_cycling":""},{"day_headline":"Day 3: Vojvodina Region and the Cultural Delights of Novi Sad","day_description":"Today, you\u2019ll be exploring\u00a0Vojvodina<\/strong>, where you\u2019ll visit the well-preserved\u00a0Kru\u0161edol Monastery<\/strong>\u00a0and have the chance to purchase\u00a0wine and rakija<\/strong>\u00a0made by the resident monks. Your journey will take you to\u00a0Sremski Karlovci<\/strong>, a cultural gem with a Baroque center and\u00a0renowned wineries<\/strong>\u00a0for a wine tasting and exploration of the town's rich history. Then, you\u2019ll head to\u00a0Novi Sad<\/strong>, the\u00a02021 European Capital of Culture<\/strong>, and enjoy a sightseeing tour, including landmarks like the City Hall and\u00a0Petrovaradin Fortress<\/strong>. In the evening, you\u2019ll return to Belgrade.","itinnerary_gallery":[23917,17344,17343],"included":"Wine tasting in Fru\u0161ka Gora","meals":"","extra":"","itinerary_highlight":"","itinerary_highlight_with_link":"","itinerary_activity":"","itinerary_accomodation":"","select_accommodations_posts":"","itinerary_things_to_do":"","itinerary_hiking":"","itinerary_cycling":""},{"day_headline":"Day 4: Road to Transylvania","day_description":"Your day begins with a border crossing to\u00a0Romania<\/strong>. Your first stop will be\u00a0Timi\u0219oara<\/strong>, known as\u00a0'Little Vienna'\u00a0<\/strong>for its architecture and multicultural influences. Explore\u00a0Unirii Square<\/strong>, visit the\u00a0Catholic Cathedral of Saint George<\/strong>, and discover Liberty Square and Victory Square. Afterwards, you\u2019ll head to\u00a0Sibiu<\/strong>, the European Capital of Culture in 2007. Here, you\u2019ll check into the hotel and end your day exploring Sibiu's rich history, including the\u00a0Brukenthal National Museum<\/strong>\u00a0and iconic landmarks such as the Large Square, Council Tower, and\u00a0Orthodox Cathedral of the Holy Trinity<\/strong>\u00a0inspired by Hagia Sofia.","itinnerary_gallery":[23963,23962,23961],"included":"","meals":"","extra":"","itinerary_highlight":"","itinerary_highlight_with_link":"","itinerary_activity":"","itinerary_accomodation":"","select_accommodations_posts":"","itinerary_things_to_do":"","itinerary_hiking":"","itinerary_cycling":""},{"day_headline":"Day 5: Secrets of Transylvania","day_description":"After breakfast, your journey takes you to\u00a0Sighi\u0219oara<\/strong>, a charming town in\u00a0Transylvania\u00a0<\/strong>with a rich history dating back to the 1100s. Here, you can explore this\u00a0UNESCO World Heritage Site\u00a0<\/strong>with its cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and notable landmarks such as the Clock Tower, and\u00a0Vlad Dracula's birthplace<\/strong>. Afterwards, you\u2019ll move on to\u00a0Sinaia,\u00a0<\/strong>the \u201cPearl of the Carpathians\u201d, where you\u2019ll spend the night.","itinnerary_gallery":[23970,23971,23972],"included":"Transf\u0103g\u0103r\u0103\u0219an Exploration","meals":"","extra":"","itinerary_highlight":"","itinerary_highlight_with_link":"","itinerary_activity":"","itinerary_accomodation":"","select_accommodations_posts":"","itinerary_things_to_do":"","itinerary_hiking":"","itinerary_cycling":""},{"day_headline":"Day 6: The Legend of Dracula","day_description":"Today starts with a visit to the\u00a0Pele\u0219 Castle<\/strong>, the 160-rooms-large royal family's summer residence nestled within the\u00a0Carpathian Mountains.\u00a0<\/strong>Afterwards, the tour continues to\u00a0Bra\u0219ov<\/strong>, a medieval city founded by the Teutonic Knights, with notable sites like the\u00a0House of Council\u00a0<\/strong>and Biserica Neagr\u0103 (the Black Church<\/strong>). Then it\u2019s time to head to\u00a0Bran Castle<\/strong>, known as\u00a0Dracula's Castle\u00a0<\/strong>and former Romanian royal residence. Built in the 13th century, its gothic fortress evokes Bram Stoker's \"Dracula\" and\u00a0the legend of Vlad the Impaler<\/strong>, the castle's presumed prisoner. As the day comes to an end, you\u2019ll return to Sinaia for the night.","itinnerary_gallery":[23980,23977,23981],"included":"","meals":"","extra":"","itinerary_highlight":"","itinerary_highlight_with_link":"","itinerary_activity":"","itinerary_accomodation":"","select_accommodations_posts":"","itinerary_things_to_do":"","itinerary_hiking":"","itinerary_cycling":""},{"day_headline":"Day 7: Gifts of the Carpathians","day_description":"As you\u2019ll make your way towards Bucharest today, you will also be exploring the incredible gifts of the Carpathians. Today\u2019s journey will take you through the expansive\u00a0wine region of Dealu Mare<\/strong>, where you\u2019ll have the chance to try the most\u00a0prestigious wines<\/strong>\u00a0produced in the Romanian Carpathians. After a delicious tasting, your day will conclude in\u00a0Bucharest<\/strong>, Romania\u2019s iconic capital.","itinnerary_gallery":[30095,17519,17566],"included":"Dealu Mare wine tasting<\/span>","meals":"","extra":"","itinerary_highlight":"","itinerary_highlight_with_link":"","itinerary_activity":"","itinerary_accomodation":"","select_accommodations_posts":"","itinerary_things_to_do":"","itinerary_hiking":"","itinerary_cycling":""},{"day_headline":"Day 8: Exploring the Vibrant Streets of Bucharest","day_description":"After breakfast, you\u2019ll head on a sightseeing tour of Bucharest, known as \"Little Paris<\/strong>\" for its Belle \u00c9poque buildings and blend of French, Byzantine, and communist architecture. You will start at\u00a0Pia\u021ba Unirii<\/strong>, offering views of the\u00a0Palace of the Parliament<\/strong>, the world's second-largest building and then venture to the\u00a0medieval Old Town<\/strong>, exploring the Old Princely Court,\u00a0Stavropoleos Monastery<\/strong>, Lipscani Street, and the National Museum of Romanian History. In the afternoon, you can explore the city at your own pace, enjoy dinner and \u021auic\u0103,\u00a0Romania's national plum drink,<\/strong>\u00a0and immerse yourself in Bucharest's unique charm and energy.","itinnerary_gallery":[26038,26037,24006],"included":"","meals":"","extra":"Art Nouveau Dinner","itinerary_highlight":"","itinerary_highlight_with_link":"","itinerary_activity":"","itinerary_accomodation":"","select_accommodations_posts":"","itinerary_things_to_do":"","itinerary_hiking":"","itinerary_cycling":""},{"day_headline":"Day 9: Bulgaria's Cultural Treasures","day_description":"In the morning, it\u2019s time to\u00a0head to Bulgaria.<\/strong>\u00a0Your exploration will begin in\u00a0Veliko Tarnovo<\/strong>, the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire, known for its winding streets, architectural masterpieces, and craftsmen's guild. Its prime attraction is the\u00a0Tsarevets Fortress<\/strong>, an awe-inspiring creation of humanity. Afterwards, the day will take you to\u00a0Arbanasi<\/strong>, an architectural reserve and\u00a0open-air museum\u00a0<\/strong>with 80 houses retaining original Ottoman design. You will get the chance to spend the night in a 17th century han, fully immersing yourself in the region\u2019s history.","itinnerary_gallery":[23982,30096,23983],"included":"Arbanasi open-air museum","meals":"","extra":"","itinerary_highlight":"","itinerary_highlight_with_link":"","itinerary_activity":"","itinerary_accomodation":"","select_accommodations_posts":"","itinerary_things_to_do":"","itinerary_hiking":"","itinerary_cycling":""},{"day_headline":"Day 10: Etar Ethnographic Museum and the Ancient City of Plovdiv","day_description":"Today, you\u2019re moving on to central Bulgaria. The first stop is the\u00a0Open Air Ethnographic Museum Etar<\/strong>, showcasing 50 objects including houses, water-powered installations, and craftsmen's workshops, reflecting central\u00a0Bulgaria's life and economy\u00a0<\/strong>during the Bulgarian National Revival. Continuing south, you\u2019ll witness the incredible Damascena Complex in the\u00a0Valley of Roses\u00a0<\/strong>before making your way to Plovdiv, one of\u00a0Europe's oldest cities<\/strong>\u00a0and a cultural melting pot. Here, you can find the Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis from the\u00a02nd century<\/strong>! The day will end in Kapana, Plovdiv\u2019s creative hub before you settle in for the night.","itinnerary_gallery":[26039,26041,26040],"included":"Herbal cosmetics workshop","meals":"","extra":"","itinerary_highlight":"","itinerary_highlight_with_link":"","itinerary_activity":"","itinerary_accomodation":"","select_accommodations_posts":"","itinerary_things_to_do":"","itinerary_hiking":"","itinerary_cycling":""},{"day_headline":"Day 11: Cultural Charms of Sofia","day_description":"Exploration of Sofia\u2019s ambiance is on the schedule today. You\u2019ll visit significant landmarks like the\u00a0grand Saint Alexander Nevsky Cathedral<\/strong>, the colorful\u00a0Church of Saint Nicholas the Miracle-Maker<\/strong>, the cultural cornerstone Ivan Vazov National Theatre, and the 4th-century Church of Saint George. The sight of the iconic Sofia Synagogue will mesmerize you, and the tour of the city\u2019s multicultural history will be complete with a stop by Largo, a Socialist Classicism architectural landmark. The afternoon will be spent at your own leisure.","itinnerary_gallery":[26043,26042,25801],"included":"","meals":"","extra":"","itinerary_highlight":"","itinerary_highlight_with_link":"","itinerary_activity":"","itinerary_accomodation":"","select_accommodations_posts":"","itinerary_things_to_do":"","itinerary_hiking":"","itinerary_cycling":""},{"day_headline":"Day 12: Departure from Sofia","day_description":"Your Balkan adventure has come to an end. Depending on your departure time, take the day\u00a0at leisure\u00a0<\/strong>to explore the streets of Sofia, indulge in one last coffee or a delicious breakfast before making your way\u00a0back home<\/strong>.","itinnerary_gallery":[30100,30101,30102],"included":"","meals":"","extra":"","itinerary_highlight":"","itinerary_highlight_with_link":"","itinerary_activity":"","itinerary_accomodation":"","select_accommodations_posts":"","itinerary_things_to_do":"","itinerary_hiking":"","itinerary_cycling":""}],"product_map":"","starting_point":"Belgrade","finish_point":"Belgrade","duration":"12 days \/ 11 nights","duration_groupe":{"duration_value_field":"12","type_duration_dropdown":"days"},"difficulty":"leisurely_to_oderate","product_dates_NEW":[{"start_date_new":"20250329","end_date_new":"20250409","status_new":"None","date_price_new":{"price_product_prefix_inline":"default","price":"","price_product_suffix_inline":"default"},"product_dates_type":["Join a group"]},{"start_date_new":"20250418","end_date_new":"20250429","status_new":"None","date_price_new":{"price_product_prefix_inline":"default","price":"","price_product_suffix_inline":"default"},"product_dates_type":["Join a group"]},{"start_date_new":"20250509","end_date_new":"20250520","status_new":"None","date_price_new":{"price_product_prefix_inline":"default","price":"","price_product_suffix_inline":"default"},"product_dates_type":["Join a group"]},{"start_date_new":"20250530","end_date_new":"20250610","status_new":"None","date_price_new":{"price_product_prefix_inline":"default","price":"","price_product_suffix_inline":"default"},"product_dates_type":["Join a group"]},{"start_date_new":"20250613","end_date_new":"20250624","status_new":"None","date_price_new":{"price_product_prefix_inline":"default","price":"","price_product_suffix_inline":"default"},"product_dates_type":["Join a group"]},{"start_date_new":"20250704","end_date_new":"20250715","status_new":"None","date_price_new":{"price_product_prefix_inline":"default","price":"","price_product_suffix_inline":"default"},"product_dates_type":["Join a group"]},{"start_date_new":"20250725","end_date_new":"20250806","status_new":"None","date_price_new":{"price_product_prefix_inline":"default","price":"","price_product_suffix_inline":"default"},"product_dates_type":["Join a group"]},{"start_date_new":"20250815","end_date_new":"20250826","status_new":"None","date_price_new":{"price_product_prefix_inline":"default","price":"","price_product_suffix_inline":"default"},"product_dates_type":["Join a group"]},{"start_date_new":"20250905","end_date_new":"20250916","status_new":"None","date_price_new":{"price_product_prefix_inline":"default","price":"","price_product_suffix_inline":"default"},"product_dates_type":["Join a group"]},{"start_date_new":"20250919","end_date_new":"20250930","status_new":"None","date_price_new":{"price_product_prefix_inline":"default","price":"","price_product_suffix_inline":"default"},"product_dates_type":["Join a group"]},{"start_date_new":"20251003","end_date_new":"20251014","status_new":"None","date_price_new":{"price_product_prefix_inline":"default","price":"","price_product_suffix_inline":"default"},"product_dates_type":["Join a group"]},{"start_date_new":"20251017","end_date_new":"20251028","status_new":"None","date_price_new":{"price_product_prefix_inline":"default","price":"","price_product_suffix_inline":"default"},"product_dates_type":["Join a group"]}],"group_price_NEW":{"price_product_prefix_inline":"default","price":"2160","price_product_suffix_inline":"default"},"private_guided_solo_price_NEW":{"price_product_prefix_inline":"default","price":"","price_product_suffix_inline":"default"},"private_guided_group_price_NEW":{"price_product_prefix_inline":"default","price":"","price_product_suffix_inline":"default"},"private_guided_custom_price":"","self_guided_price_NEW":{"price_product_prefix_inline":"default","price":"","price_product_suffix_inline":"default"},"google_map_iframe":"