How to Plan Your Tour of Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi from Sofia

If you’re planning a trip to Bulgaria and looking for a unique and authentic experience, consider taking a full-day trip from Sofia to Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi. This small-group tour offers the chance to explore two of Bulgaria’s most historic and beautiful cities, with plenty of opportunities to learn about the country’s rich culture and history. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know to plan the perfect tour.

Overview

The tour takes you to Veliko Tarnovo, a former Bulgarian capital and medieval crafts town, and Arbanassi, a nearby village famous for its beautiful architecture and fresco-painted Church of the Nativity of Christ. You’ll travel in an air-conditioned minivan and make the trip with a small group, ensuring personalized attention from your guide. The tour includes central Sofia pickup and drop-off, but entrance fees will be at your own expense.

How to Book

To book the tour, simply head to the following link: book the tour here. The tour is operated by a third-party company, Viator, so be sure to read all terms and conditions before booking.

Itinerary

The tour itinerary is as follows:

• 8:00am – Pick up from your hotel or other accommodation in central Sofia
• 10:30am – Arrival in Veliko Tarnovo
• 10:45am – Visit Tsarevets Fortress (entrance fee at your expense)
• 12:30pm – Lunch break (not included in the tour price)
• 1:30pm – Explore Veliko Tarnovo’s craft shops and old streets
• 3:00pm – Journey to Arbanassi
• 3:30pm – Visit the Church of the Nativity of Christ (entrance fee at your expense)
• 4:30pm – Departure back to Sofia
• 7:00pm – Drop off in central Sofia

What to Expect

The tour is a full-day trip, so be prepared to spend several hours on the road and on your feet. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a water bottle, as it can get quite hot in the summer months. Entrance fees to the Tsarevets Fortress and Church of the Nativity of Christ are not included in the tour price, so be sure to bring cash to cover these costs. Lunch is also not included in the price, but your guide will be happy to recommend local restaurants where you can try traditional Bulgarian cuisine. Throughout the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about Bulgaria’s rich history and culture. Veliko Tarnovo is known for its rich past as a medieval capital, and you’ll be able to see historic landmarks like the Tsarevets Fortress up close. In Arbanassi, you’ll get a taste of traditional Bulgarian village life, complete with stunning architecture and beautiful frescoes. Your guide will be happy to answer any questions you have and give you insight into Bulgarian history and culture.

Book Your Tour Now

A tour of Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi is the perfect way to experience Bulgaria’s rich history and culture. With personalized attention from your guide and a small-group setting, you’ll be able to explore two of Bulgaria’s most beautiful cities at your own pace. Be sure to book in advance and come prepared with cash for entrance fees and lunch. With a little planning, you’re sure to have a memorable and rewarding experience.

Frequently Asked Questions about Sofia, Bulgaria

If you are planning a visit to Sofia, Bulgaria, you may have some questions about this beautiful city. Here are some frequently asked questions that may help you plan your trip.

1. Where is Sofia?

Sofia is the capital and largest city of Bulgaria, located in the western part of the country. It is situated in the Sofia Valley, at the foot of the Vitosha mountain.

2. What is the currency used in Sofia?

The currency used in Sofia, and throughout Bulgaria, is the Bulgarian lev (BGN). The lev is pegged to the euro, with 1 EUR equal to approximately 1.95 BGN.

3. What is the best time to visit Sofia?

The best time to visit Sofia is during the months of May to September, when the weather is mild and pleasant. In the winter, temperatures can drop below freezing, and snow is common.

4. How do I get to Sofia?

Sofia is served by Sofia Airport, which is located about 10 km east of the city center. There are direct flights to Sofia from many European cities, as well as from the Middle East and North Africa.

5. What are the must-see attractions in Sofia?

There are many things to see and do in Sofia, including:

• Alexander Nevsky Cathedral
• National Palace of Culture
• Vitosha Mountain
• Boyana Church
• National Museum of History
• Sofia Synagogue

6. What is the cost of living in Sofia?

Sofia is one of the most affordable capital cities in Europe. The cost of living in Sofia is much lower than in other European cities, especially for accommodation, food, and transportation.

7. Is it safe to travel to Sofia?

Sofia is generally a safe city for tourists. As with any city, visitors should take common sense precautions to protect themselves and their belongings.

8. What is the nightlife like in Sofia?

Sofia has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and restaurants open late into the night. Many tourists also enjoy attending a traditional Bulgarian folk show or dance performance.

9. What is the local cuisine like in Sofia?

Bulgarian cuisine is known for its hearty, meat-based dishes and fresh vegetables. Some popular Bulgarian dishes include kebapche (grilled meat), banitsa (a pastry filled with cheese or meat), and tarator (a cold soup made with yogurt and cucumbers).

10. What should I know about Bulgarian culture before I visit Sofia?

Bulgarian culture is heavily influenced by its history and traditions. Visitors to Sofia should be respectful of local customs and traditions, such as removing their shoes before entering someone’s home and bringing a small gift when invited to dinner.

Book Your Tour Now

Sofia is a fascinating and affordable city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern amenities. Whether you are interested in sightseeing, nightlife, or cuisine, Sofia has something to offer every visitor. We hope this FAQ has been helpful as you plan your trip to this beautiful Bulgarian city.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Sofia

Sofia, the capital city of Bulgaria, is a beautiful and vibrant city with an impressive history, fascinating culture, and plenty of attractions to offer. There are many ways to spend your time here, from exploring ancient ruins to enjoying local cuisine. In this guide, we’ll cover some of the top things to do in Sofia as a tourist.

1. Explore the city’s historical sites

Sofia is a city steeped in history. Start your visit with a trip to the ancient Roman city of Serdica, where you can see the remains of the old fortress walls and thermal baths. Other historical sites worth visiting include the 4th-century Church of St. George and the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, one of the largest Eastern Orthodox cathedrals in the world.

2. Take a walking tour of the city

One of the best ways to see the city is to take a walking tour. You can see all the major sites of Sofia, including the Palace of Justice, the National Theatre, and the National Palace of Culture. Many tours also include stops at local markets and shops, where you can try traditional Bulgarian foods and drinks.

3. Visit the museums

Sofia has many museums worth visiting, including the National Museum of History, where you can learn about the country’s long and fascinating past. Other popular museums include the Museum of Contemporary Art and the National Archaeological Museum, which houses artifacts from Bulgaria’s prehistoric and ancient past.

4. Enjoy the city’s parks and gardens

Sofia has many green spaces that are perfect for a relaxing afternoon. Popular parks include Borisova Gradina, Vitosha nature park, and South Park. With plenty of benches, playgrounds, and picnic areas, these parks are great places to relax and take in the natural beauty of the city.

5. Experience local cuisine

No visit to Sofia would be complete without trying the local cuisine. Bulgarian food is hearty and delicious, with many dishes featuring grilled meats, fresh vegetables, and flavorful spices. Some of the most popular dishes to try include banitsa, a savory pastry filled with cheese, and kavarma, a stew made with pork, vegetables, and wine.

6. Take a day trip

Sofia is the perfect starting point for many day trips to nearby attractions. Some popular day trips include the Rila Monastery, a beautiful and historic Orthodox monastery, and Plovdiv, a charming and ancient city with Roman ruins, art galleries, and museums.

7. Experience the city’s nightlife

Sofia has a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from. Some of the most popular spots include the Raketa Rakia Bar, which serves traditional Bulgarian spirits and cocktails in a lively atmosphere, and The Apartment, a chic club with electronic dance music and a rooftop bar.

Book Your Tour Now

Sofia is a beautiful and vibrant city with plenty to offer tourists. From ancient ruins to modern nightlife, there is something here for everyone. So if you’re planning a trip to Bulgaria, be sure to spend some time in Sofia and experience all that this exciting city has to offer.