How to Plan Your Balkans Guided Tour from Bucharest to Sofia and Budapest

Are you planning a holiday to explore the beautiful Balkans? Look no further than the Balkans Guided Tour from Bucharest to Sofia and Budapest. This tour is perfect for those who want to experience the rich history, culture, and stunning landscapes of Romania, Bulgaria, Macedonia, Montenegro, Croatia, and Albania. In this blog post, we’ll provide all the information you need to plan your perfect Balkans adventure.

Overview

The Balkans Guided Tour from Bucharest to Sofia and Budapest is a 13-night adventure that includes 3-4 star accommodations, transportation by air-conditioned minivan, and an experienced tour leader who will be your driver. During the tour, you’ll explore six Balkan countries, visit beautiful cities, see historic landmarks, and experience local culture.

What’s Included

The tour includes 13 nights of accommodation in 3-4 star hotels, transportation in an air-conditioned minivan for the entire tour, an experienced tour leader who will also serve as your driver, and tips for the driver/tour guide. However, food and drinks are not included unless specified, and entrance fees at museums are not included.

Meeting and Pickup

The tour departs at 9:00 am from your hotel or indicated address in Bucharest. You can select a pickup point when you book your tour, and the pickup time is 8:30 am. Please ensure that you arrive at the pickup point at least 15 minutes before departure time.

What to Expect

Here’s a day-by-day breakdown of what you can expect on the Balkans Guided Tour from Bucharest to Sofia and Budapest:

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

On the first day of your tour, you’ll leave Bucharest and head to Arbanassi, a beautiful medieval city famous for its stunning architecture. From there, you’ll travel to Veliko Tarnovo, the ancient capital of Bulgaria, and then on to Sofia, the modern capital of Bulgaria. In Sofia, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the city’s museums, parks, and historic landmarks.

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

On the second day of your tour, you’ll visit the Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning mountain scenery and rich history. From there, you’ll travel to Skopje, the capital of Macedonia. In Skopje, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the city’s museums, markets, and historic landmarks.

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

On the third day of your tour, you’ll travel to Ohrid, a beautiful lakeside town known for its stunning scenery and historic landmarks. In Ohrid, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the town’s museums, parks, and historic landmarks, including the Ohrid Fortress and the Church of St. Sophia.

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

On the fourth day of your tour, you’ll travel to the Bay of Bones, a prehistoric settlement on the shores of Lake Ohrid. From there, you’ll visit the St. Naum Monastery, a beautiful complex known for its stunning architecture and scenic surroundings. You’ll then travel to Tirana, the capital of Albania, and visit the city’s museums, parks, and historic landmarks. Finally, you’ll head to Kruja, a beautiful medieval town famous for its historic bazaar.

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

On the fifth day of your tour, you’ll travel to Budva, a beautiful seaside town in Montenegro known for its stunning beaches and historic landmarks. From there, you’ll visit Kotor, a beautiful bay town known for its stunning scenery and historic landmarks.

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

On the sixth day of your tour, you’ll take a tour of Kotor Bay, a beautiful area known for its stunning scenery and historic landmarks. From there, you’ll travel to Dubrovnik, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most beautiful cities in Croatia. In Dubrovnik, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the city’s museums, parks, and historic landmarks.

Day 7 – Friday – Dubrovnik – Mostar – Sarajevo (240 km) CROATIA + BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA

On the seventh day of your tour, you’ll travel to Mostar, a city famous for its ancient bridge and stunning architecture. From there, you’ll head to Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina. In Sarajevo, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the city’s museums, parks, and historic landmarks.

Day 8-10 – Saturday to Monday – Sarajevo – Belgrade (400 km) BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA + SERBIA

On the eighth day of your tour, you’ll travel to Belgrade, the capital of Serbia. Over the next three days, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the city’s museums, parks, and historic landmarks, including the Belgrade Fortress, St. Sava Temple, and Kalemegdan Fortress.

Day 11 – Tuesday – Belgrade – Novi Sad – Budapest (300 km) SERBIA + HUNGARY

On the eleventh day of your tour, you’ll travel to Novi Sad, a beautiful city known for its stunning architecture and scenic surroundings. From there, you’ll head to Budapest, the capital of Hungary. In Budapest, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the city’s museums, parks, and historic landmarks, including the Hungarian Parliament Building, Buda Castle, and Fisherman’s Bastion.

Day 12-13 – Wednesday to Thursday – Budapest

On the twelfth and thirteenth days of your tour, you’ll have a chance to explore Budapest at your own pace. There is so much to see and do in this beautiful city, from exploring its museums and galleries to relaxing in its famous thermal baths.

Conclusion

The Balkans Guided Tour from Bucharest to Sofia and Budapest is the perfect way to experience the beauty, history, and culture of the Balkans. With experienced tour leaders, comfortable accommodations, and stunning scenery, this tour is sure to be a memorable experience. To book your tour, book here.

The Ultimate Guide to Bucharest: Answers to the most frequently asked questions

Are you considering visiting Bucharest? Congrats! You are making an excellent choice! Bucharest is a vibrant city and the capital of Romania, full of history and culture, as well as modern amenities. In this guide, I will answer the most frequently asked questions by visitors to this amazing city.

1. When is the best time to visit Bucharest?

The best time to visit Bucharest is from May to September when the weather is warm, sunny, and perfect for outdoor activities. July and August can sometimes be too hot and crowded, but there are plenty of events and festivals during these months. If you prefer milder weather and fewer tourists, you may choose to visit during late spring or early autumn.

2. What is the currency in Bucharest and how can I exchange money?

The currency in Bucharest is the Romanian Leu (plural: Lei). You can exchange money at exchange offices, banks, or ATMs. Some exchange offices have better rates than others, so it is recommended to do some research before exchanging money. Also, be aware of scams and avoid exchanging money on the street.

3. Do I need a visa to visit Bucharest?

It depends on your nationality. Citizens of the European Union, as well as some other countries, do not need a visa to enter Romania for short stays. However, citizens of many other countries need a visa to visit Romania. Check with the Romanian embassy or consulate in your country to find out if you need a visa.

4. What is the public transportation like in Bucharest?

Bucharest has an extensive public transportation system, including buses, trams, trolleys, and subway (Metro). The subway is the fastest and easiest way to get around the city. The ticket price is 2.5 Lei (around 0.5 Euro) for two trips. You can also buy a daily pass or a weekly pass if you plan to use public transportation frequently.

5. Is Bucharest a safe city for tourists?

Bucharest is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any other big city, it has some areas that are better to avoid, especially at night. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can happen in crowded places, so keep an eye on your belongings. It is also recommended to take licensed taxis or use ride-hailing apps (Uber, Bolt, etc.) instead of unlicensed taxis.

6. What are some must-see attractions in Bucharest?

There are many must-see attractions in Bucharest, and it depends on your interests. Some of the most popular ones are:- The Palace of the Parliament, the second-largest administrative building in the world, and the most expensive

– The Old Town, a lively area full of restaurants, bars, and historical buildings

– The Village Museum, an open-air museum that showcases traditional Romanian architecture and lifestyle

– Herastrau Park, a huge park with a lake, playgrounds, and many outdoor activities

– The National Museum of Art of Romania, which houses an impressive collection of Romanian and European art.

7. What is the food like in Bucharest?

The food in Bucharest is diverse and delicious. Romanian cuisine is a mix of Balkan, Turkish, and Central European influences. Some traditional Romanian dishes that are a must-try are:- Sarmale – Cabbage rolls with minced meat and rice, usually served with polenta and sour cream

– Mici – Grilled sausages made of minced meat (usually pork or beef) and spices, served with bread and mustard

– Papanași – A dessert made of sweet cheese dumplings, topped with sour cream and jam.There are also many international restaurants, such as Italian, French, and Japanese, as well as fast-food chains and street food options.

8. What are some popular festivals and events in Bucharest?

Bucharest hosts many festivals and events throughout the year, including:- George Enescu International Festival, a renowned classical music festival that takes place every two years in September

– Bucharest International Film Festival, an annual film festival that showcases independent and international films

– Street Delivery, a festival that celebrates urban culture, street art, and community involvement

– Red Bull Romaniacs, an extreme enduro race that takes place in the Carpathian Mountains every July

– Bucharest Christmas Market, a traditional Christmas fair held in the Old Town every December.

9. What are some day trips from Bucharest?

Bucharest is located in the southern part of Romania and is surrounded by beautiful countryside and historical landmarks. Some popular day trips from Bucharest are:- Bran Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle, located in Transylvania, about 2.5 hours by car from Bucharest

– Peleș Castle, a stunning royal palace located in Sinaia, about 1.5 hours by car from Bucharest

– The Black Sea Coast, a popular summer destination with sandy beaches and seaside resorts, about 2.5 hours by car from Bucharest

– The Danube Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts an amazing biodiversity and scenic landscapes, about 4 hours by car from Bucharest.

10. How can I experience the nightlife in Bucharest?

Bucharest has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and pubs. Some popular areas for nightlife are the Old Town, the Lipscani district, and the Floreasca-Barbu Vacarescu area. There are also many rooftop bars and cafes that offer stunning views of the city. It is recommended to check out venues online before going out to make sure they are open and have the desired dress code.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Bucharest

Bucharest is an enchanting city in Eastern Europe that is well-known for its culture, history, and architecture. There’s never a dull moment in this city filled with museums, parks, and historic sites. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your time as a tourist in Bucharest.

1. Visit Palace of the Parliament

The Palace of the Parliament is one of the biggest administrative buildings in the world and a major tourist destination in Bucharest. Commissioned by Nicolae Ceausescu, the building is massive and houses Romania’s parliament. It has more than a thousand rooms, several grandiose halls, and an enormous crystal chandelier that weighs over three tons.To visit the Palace of the Parliament, you’ll need to book a guided tour. The entry fee is 40 Romanian lei, and the tour lasts around one hour. You’ll get to see some impressive rooms, such as the Human Rights Hall, Nicolae Ceausescu’s private chamber, and the Senate Hall.

2. Stroll through the Old Town

Bucharest’s Old Town, also known as Lipscani, is a neighborhood that dates back to medieval times. It’s the historical and cultural center of the city and is home to numerous restaurants, bars, and shops.While wandering through the Old Town, you’ll come across several landmarks, including the Stavropoleos Monastery, the Old Princely Court, and the Macca-Villacrosse Passage. Be sure to stop by a traditional restaurant and try some of the delicious Romanian food.

3. Explore the Village Museum

The Village Museum is an open-air museum that showcases Romania’s rural architecture and way of life. It’s located in Herastrau Park, which is one of the largest parks in Bucharest.The museum has over 300 traditional buildings from various regions of Romania, including farmhouses, windmills, and churches. You can also see traditional clothes, tools, and other artifacts. This is a great way to get a glimpse into traditional Romanian life.

4. Take a walk in the Botanical Garden

The Botanical Garden is an oasis in the middle of Bucharest. It’s a great place to unwind and relax after a busy day of sightseeing. The garden opened in 1860 and covers an area of 17 hectares.It has over 10,000 species of plants from all over the world, including palm trees, cacti, and orchids. You can also see several greenhouses with tropical and subtropical plants. The garden is open every day from 8 a.m. until sunset, and the entry fee is 10 Romanian lei.

5. Discover the Romanian Athenaeum

The Romanian Athenaeum is a majestic building located in the heart of Bucharest. It’s the main concert hall of the city and is well-known for its excellent acoustics.The Athenaeum was built in 1888 and has a neoclassical facade with a dome. Inside, you’ll find a grand hall that can seat up to 700 people. It’s a great place to attend a concert or an opera performance. You can also take a guided tour of the Athenaeum, which will give you an insight into its history and architecture.

6. Visit the National Museum of Art of Romania

The National Museum of Art of Romania is located in the former Royal Palace and houses a vast collection of Romanian art, as well as European art. The museum was founded in 1948 and has over 70,000 works of art.Here you’ll find paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts from the medieval period up to the present day. Some of the highlights include works by El Greco, Rubens, and Monet. The museum is open every day except Monday, and the entry fee is 30 Romanian lei.

7. Take a day trip to Dracula’s Castle

If you have a little extra time, you can take a day trip to Bran Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle. It’s located about three hours away from Bucharest and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Romania.The castle was built in the 14th century and has a fascinating history. It’s also the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s novel, Dracula. During your visit, you can explore the castle’s rooms, including the weapons room and torture chamber. You can also see the stunning views from the castle’s tower.

In conclusion

Bucharest is a city full of surprises and adventures. There’s no shortage of things to see and do in this vibrant city. From exploring the historic Old Town to taking a day trip to Dracula’s Castle, Bucharest has something for everyone. Use this guide to help plan your trip and make the most of your time as a tourist in Bucharest.