How to plan your Balkans Guided Tour from Bucharest to Sofia and Budapest

If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable travel experience, consider booking the Balkans Guided Tour from Bucharest to Sofia and Budapest. With 13 nights of accommodation in 3/4* hotels, air-conditioned minivan transport, and a professional tour leader who will also be your driver, you’ll be able to explore the beauty and culture of Romania, Bulgaria, Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro, and Croatia hassle-free.In this guide, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to plan your Balkans Guided Tour from Bucharest to Sofia and Budapest.

Overview

The Balkans Guided Tour from Bucharest to Sofia and Budapest covers six countries, and you will visit the most iconic attractions in Romania, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro, and Croatia. This tour is perfect for those who want to experience the rich cultural and historical heritage of the Balkans, as well as the breathtaking landscapes that the region has to offer. During the 13-day tour, you will be visiting Bucharest, Sofia, Veliko Tarnovo, Rila Monastery, Skopje, Ohrid, Tirana, Kruja, Budva, Kotor, Dubrovnik, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Bled, and Budapest.

What’s Included

The following are included in the Balkans Guided Tour from Bucharest to Sofia and Budapest:

• 13 nights’ accommodation in 3/4* hotels
• Transport by air-conditioned minivan for the entire tour
• Professional tour leader that will be also the driver
• Tips for the driver/tourguide

The following are not included in the tour:

• Food and drinks unless specified
• Entrance fees at museums

Meeting and Pickup

Pickups for the tour start at 8:30 AM, and the tour departs at 9:00 AM from your hotel or indicated address. The pickup points can be selected beforehand to fit your convenience.

What To Expect

During the Balkans Guided Tour from Bucharest to Sofia and Budapest, you will be visiting some of the most iconic attractions in the Balkans. You will explore the beauty and culture of Bucharest, the capital of Romania, Veliko Tarnovo, Rila Monastery, Sofia, Skopje, Ohrid, Tirana, Kruja, Budva, Kotor, Dubrovnik, Plitvice Lakes National Park, Bled, and Budapest.

Day 1 – Saturday – Bucharest – Arbanassi – Veliko – Sofia (400 km) ROMANIA + BULGARIA

On the first day of the tour, you will travel from Bucharest to Sofia, stopping along the way in Arbanassi and Veliko Tarnovo, two of Bulgaria’s most charming and historic towns.

Day 2 – Sunday – Sofia – Rila – Skopje (350 km) BULGARIA + MACEDONIA

On this day of the tour, you will visit Rila Monastery, one of Bulgaria’s most iconic landmarks, and learn about its rich history and significance.

Day 3 – Monday – Skopje – Ohrid (190 km) MACEDONIA

During day 3 of the tour, you will visit Skopje, the capital city of North Macedonia. You will also visit the stunning Lake Ohrid and learn about its history and significance.

Day 4 – Tuesday – Ohrid – Bay of Bones – St Naum – Tirana – Kruja (210 km) MACEDONIA + ALBANIA

On this day of the tour, you will visit the Bay of Bones and St. Naum Monastery in North Macedonia. You will also travel to Tirana, Albania’s capital city, and Kruja, a historic town famous for its castle and bazaar.

Day 5 – Wednesday – Kruja – Budva – Kotor (190 km) ALBANIA+MONTENEGRO

During day 5 of the tour, you will travel from Kruja to Montenegro and visit Budva, a picturesque seaside town known for its beauty and charm. You will also visit Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Day 6 – Thursday – Kotor Bay Tour – Dubrovnik (150 km) MONTENEGRO + CROATIA

On this day of the tour, you will explore the stunning Kotor Bay by boat and then travel to Dubrovnik, one of Croatia’s most beautiful and historic cities.

Day 7 – Friday – Dubrovnik – Split – Plitvice Lakes (400 km) CROATIA

During day 7 of the tour, you will travel from Dubrovnik to Split and then visit Plitvice Lakes National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning lakes and waterfalls.

Day 8 – Saturday – Plitvice Lakes – Bled (350 km) CROATIA + SLOVENIA

On this day of the tour, you will travel to Bled, Slovenia, a stunning town surrounded by mountains and famous for its castle and lake.

Day 9 – Sunday – Bled – Ljubljana – Budapest (450 km) SLOVENIA + HUNGARY

During day 9 of the tour, you will travel to Ljubljana, Slovenia’s capital city, and then end the day in Budapest, Hungary’s capital city and one of Europe’s most stunning cities.

Book the tour here

If you’re interested in booking the Balkans Guided Tour from Bucharest to Sofia and Budapest, you can book it through the following link: book the tour here.

Conclusion

The Balkans Guided Tour from Bucharest to Sofia and Budapest is an incredible travel experience that will allow you to explore some of the most beautiful and historic places in the Balkans. With its comfortable accommodation, air-conditioned transport, and professional tour leader, this tour is the perfect choice for those who want to travel hassle-free and experience the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bucharest

Bucharest is the capital and largest city of Romania, with a population of over 2 million people. It’s a vibrant and dynamic city known for its stunning architecture, rich cultural history, and lively nightlife. As a popular tourist destination, many travelers have questions about visiting Bucharest. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about Bucharest:

1. What is the best time to visit Bucharest?

The best time to visit Bucharest is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Summer can be hot and crowded, while winter can be cold with occasional snow. If you plan to visit Bucharest in the summer, be prepared for high temperatures and a lot of tourists.

2. How do I get to Bucharest?

Bucharest has two airports: Henri Coanda International Airport and Aurel Vlaicu International Airport. Both airports have regular flights to major cities in Europe, Asia, and North America. There are also train and bus connections between Bucharest and other major cities in Romania and Europe.

3. What are the must-visit tourist attractions in Bucharest?

Bucharest has plenty of tourist attractions to offer. Some of the must-visit places are:

• Palace of the Parliament
• Old Town
• Village Museum
• National Museum of Art of Romania
• Arcul de Triumf
• Carol Park
• Cotroceni Palace

4. How do I get around Bucharest?

Bucharest has an extensive public transport system including buses, trams, trolleybuses, and a metro. The metro is the fastest and most convenient way to get around the city, with four lines that cover most of the city. You can buy a rechargeable card for multiple trips or a single trip ticket. Taxis are also widely available, but make sure you use a licensed taxi company to avoid scams.

5. Is Bucharest safe for tourists?

Bucharest is generally safe for tourists, but like any major city, you should take precautions to avoid petty crimes such as pickpocketing and scams. Keep your belongings close to you, especially in crowded areas, and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone in poorly-lit areas at night.

6. What is Romanian cuisine?

Romanian cuisine is a mix of Balkan, Turkish, and Central European influences. It features dishes such as sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), mici (grilled minced meat rolls), ciorba (sour soup), and mamaliga (polenta). Traditional desserts include papanasi (dumplings with sour cream and jam) and cozonac (sweet bread with nuts and raisins).

7. What is the nightlife like in Bucharest?

Bucharest is known for its lively nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to suit every taste. Old Town is the most popular area for nightlife, with many bars and clubs open until the early morning hours. Other popular areas include Herastrau Park and Floreasca.

8. Is English spoken in Bucharest?

English is widely spoken in Bucharest, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. However, it’s always helpful to learn a few basic Romanian phrases to communicate with locals and show respect for their culture.

9. What should I pack for my trip to Bucharest?

What you should pack for your trip to Bucharest depends on the time of year you’re visiting. During the summer, pack lightweight clothing and comfortable shoes. In the winter, pack warm clothing, a jacket, and boots. Bring comfortable shoes for walking, as Bucharest is a great city to explore on foot.

10. Can I use my credit cards in Bucharest?

Credit cards are widely accepted in Bucharest, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. However, it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially when visiting markets or smaller shops. ATMs are widely available throughout the city.

Conclusion

Bucharest is a beautiful, vibrant city that offers plenty of attractions for tourists. Make sure you plan your visit well and take into consideration the best time to travel, how to get around, and what to pack. With a little preparation, you can make the most out of your trip to Bucharest and enjoy all it has to offer.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Bucharest

Bucharest is a beautiful city with a rich history and culture. It has numerous tourist attractions that visitors can explore. Whether you are a first-time visitor to Bucharest or a repeat tourist, there is always something new to discover. In this guide, we will highlight some of the must-see sights, sounds, and tastes that Bucharest has to offer.

1. Visit the Palace of the Parliament

Also known as the People’s Palace, the Palace of the Parliament is the most iconic building in Bucharest. Built by the former Romanian dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu, the palace is the second-largest administrative building in the world after the Pentagon. The palace has over 1,000 rooms, and it is home to the Romanian parliament, as well as museums and conference halls.To visit, tourists can join a guided tour that takes them through some of the palace’s most impressive rooms, such as the Unification Hall, the Human Rights Hall, and the Nicolae Ceaușescu Hall. Visitors can also explore the palace’s underground tunnels, which stretch for miles beneath Bucharest’s streets.

2. Stroll through the Old Town

Bucharest’s Old Town, also known as Lipscani, is a must-see destination for tourists. With its cobbled streets, historic architecture, and lively atmosphere, the Old Town is home to numerous cafes, bars, restaurants, and shops.Tourists can start by visiting Stavropoleos Monastery, a 17th-century Orthodox church that features stunning frescoes and religious artifacts. Walking along Strada Franceză, one of the oldest streets in Bucharest, visitors can admire the elegant architecture of the 18th and 19th centuries. The Old Town also has several museums, such as the National Museum of Romanian History, the Museum of the Romanian Peasant, and the Curtea Veche Museum.

3. Explore the Village Museum

Located in the Herastrau Park, the Village Museum is a unique open-air museum that showcases traditional Romanian life. The museum has over 300 traditional houses, farms, and windmills that represent the different regions of Romania. Visitors can walk among the thatched-roofed houses, see how villagers used to work, and learn about the customs, music, and costumes of rural Romania.

4. Visit the Botanical Garden

Founded in 1860, the Bucharest Botanical Garden is one of the oldest and largest botanical gardens in Europe. The garden has over 10,000 species of plants, including roses, orchids, cacti, and bonsai trees. Visitors can explore the garden’s various greenhouses, such as the Succulent Greenhouse, the Palm House, and the Tropical Greenhouse. The garden also has a lake, a waterfall, and several sculptures.

5. Try Romanian Cuisine

Romanian cuisine is a blend of Balkan, Eastern European, and Ottoman influences. It features hearty meat dishes, stews, soups, and pastries, as well as fresh vegetables and fruits. Some of the most popular Romanian dishes are sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), mici (grilled minced meat), ciorbă (sour soup), and mamaliga (polenta).Tourists can try Romanian cuisine at traditional restaurants such as Caru cu Bere, Hanul lui Manuc, and La Mama. The Old Town also has numerous cafes and bakeries that sell sweets such as cozonac (sweet bread) and papanasi (fried doughnuts with sour cream and jam).

Final Thoughts

Bucharest is a fascinating city with a rich history, culture, and gastronomy. Visitors can spend several days exploring the city’s landmarks, parks, museums, and restaurants. By following our guide, tourists can experience some of the best things that Bucharest has to offer. Make sure to take plenty of photos and immerse yourself in the local culture.