The Best of Serbia, Romania and Bulgaria

Upon your arrival in Serbia's lively capital, Belgrade, you'll be greeted by your driver and escorted to your hotel (or similar). As you travel from Nikola Tesla Airport, take in the sights of New Belgrade, a blend of Socialist architecture and contemporary business centers. After checking in, relax and prepare for the exciting journey ahead. In the evening, we suggest a leisurely walk to Skadarlija, Belgrade's bohemian quarter, where cobbled streets are lined with charming 'kafanas' offering local delicacies and traditional music. Overnight in Belgrade.

Begin your day with a panoramic tour of Belgrade, showcasing its architectural evolution from Brutalism to modern developments like the Belgrade Waterfront. Cross Branko's Bridge to view New Belgrade's skyline, featuring landmarks such as the Palace of Serbia and Ada Bridge. Explore the Dedinje district, home to the Museum of Yugoslavia and the Residence of Miloš the Great. Visit the iconic Temple of Saint Sava, a symbol of the city, before strolling through the bustling pedestrian zone, Republic Square, and Knez Mihailova Street. Experience local culture at the '?', the city's oldest tavern, with traditional drinks and stories. Conclude your day with a visit to Belgrade Fortress and Kalemegdan Park, offering stunning views of the Sava and Danube rivers. Overnight in Belgrade.

Embark on a journey to Vojvodina, Serbia's northern province, renowned for its picturesque landscapes and rich wine culture. Visit Fruška Gora National Park, known as the 'Serbian Holy Land,' and explore the historic Krušedol Monastery. Continue to Sremski Karlovci, a town steeped in culture and spirituality, with its Baroque architecture and winemaking heritage. Experience the Wines of Fruška Gora at a local winery, sampling the region's finest offerings. Proceed to Novi Sad, the vibrant capital of Vojvodina, and explore its lively pedestrian zone and the impressive Petrovaradin Fortress. Return to Belgrade for an evening of relaxation. Overnight in Belgrade.

Bid farewell to Serbia as you journey to Timișoara, Romania's largest city in the west, known for its cultural richness and unique architecture. Explore Unirii Square, Liberty Square, and Victory Square, home to the Romanian National Opera. Continue through the scenic landscapes of Transylvania to Sibiu, a city celebrated for its medieval charm and historical significance. Discover Sibiu's old town, with its narrow streets and landmarks like the Brukenthal Museum. Check into your hotel in Sibiu (or similar) and unwind for the evening. Overnight in Sibiu.

Start your day with a visit to the Astra National Museum Complex, one of Europe's largest open-air museums, showcasing traditional Romanian life. Journey through Transylvania's heart along the legendary Transfăgărășan Road, renowned for its breathtaking views and engineering marvels. Experience the beauty of the Carpathian Mountains and visit Bâlea Lake, a serene glacial gem. Continue to Sinaia, known as the 'Pearl of the Carpathians,' and check into your hotel (or similar) for a restful night. Overnight in Sinaia.

Explore the magnificent Peleș Castle, a Neo-Renaissance masterpiece nestled in the Carpathian Mountains. Continue to Brașov, a city founded by the Teutonic Knights, where medieval towers and baroque buildings create a picturesque setting. Visit the Black Church, a Gothic-style cathedral, before heading to Bran Castle, famously associated with the Dracula legend. Return to Sinaia for an evening of reflection on the day's adventures. Overnight in Sinaia.

Depart Sinaia and journey through the Dealu Mare Wine Region, renowned for its exquisite wines. Enjoy a wine-tasting experience at a prestigious winery, sampling the region's finest offerings. Continue to Bucharest, Romania's vibrant capital, and check into your hotel (or similar). Spend the evening exploring the city's lively atmosphere. Overnight in Bucharest.

Explore Bucharest, known for its wide boulevards and Belle Époque architecture. Visit the Palace of the Parliament, the world's second-largest building, and wander through the medieval Old Town, home to the Old Princely Court and Stavropoleos Monastery. Discover Revolution Square and learn about Romania's communist past. Enjoy an optional Art Nouveau dinner for a deeper connection with the city's history. Overnight in Bucharest.

Travel from Bucharest to Veliko Tarnovo, the former capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire. Explore the cobblestone streets and discover the Tsarevets Fortress. Continue to Arbanasi, a village known for its traditional architecture and serene atmosphere. Experience the rural roots of Bulgaria with a stay at Arbanashki Han (or similar), an ethno complex capturing the spirit of a 17th-century han. Overnight in Arbanasi.

Depart Arbanasi for the Etar Ethno Village, an open-air museum showcasing traditional Bulgarian life. Discover the art of crafting herbal cosmetics and explore the Damascena Complex in the Valley of Roses, home to Bulgaria's first private rose factory. Continue to Plovdiv, one of Europe's oldest cities, and explore its rich cultural heritage, including the Ancient Theatre of Philippopolis and the vibrant Kapana district. Overnight in Plovdiv.

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Plovdiv before traveling to Sofia, Bulgaria's capital. Discover Sofia's unique blend of architectural styles, including the Saint Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the Church of Saint Nicholas, and the Banya Bashi Mosque. Explore the city's vibrant cultural scene and check into your hotel (or similar) for a restful night. Overnight in Sofia.