Eastern Gems

WHAT TO EXPECT

Embark on a captivating 12-day journey through the Eastern Balkans, exploring three fascinating countries rich in history and natural beauty. From the vibrant streets of Belgrade to the legendary landscapes of Transylvania and the ancient wonders of Bulgaria.

Discover UNESCO World Heritage sites, medieval fortresses, stunning mountain scenery, and authentic local traditions. Experience the perfect blend of cultural immersion and natural exploration with carefully selected accommodations and expert local guides.

This tour offers an intimate look at Eastern Europe's hidden treasures - from Dracula's castle to the Seven Rila Lakes, from ancient Roman ruins to Orthodox monasteries. Travel in small groups for a personalized and memorable adventure.

Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Belgrade

Arrival in Belgrade, Serbia's vibrant capital. Transfer to hotel and welcome meeting. Evening at leisure to explore the city or optional group dinner at a traditional Serbian restaurant.

Day 2: Vibrant Capital of Serbia

Comprehensive Belgrade city tour including Kalemegdan Fortress, St. Sava Temple, and bohemian Skadarlija quarter. Afternoon visit to the Royal Oplenac Complex. Evening free for personal exploration.

Day 3: Treasures of Vojvodina

Journey north to Vojvodina region. Visit charming Novi Sad, explore Petrovaradin Fortress with panoramic Danube views, and discover the multicultural heritage of this diverse region. Wine tasting at local winery.

Day 4: Banat to Transylvania

Cross into Romania and enter the legendary region of Transylvania. Scenic drive through the Carpathian Mountains. Visit medieval Saxon villages and arrive in Transylvania's heart for overnight stay.

Day 5: Transylvania Unveiled

Full day exploring Transylvania. Visit the legendary Bran Castle (Dracula's Castle), medieval Brasov old town, and the stunning Peleș Castle. Learn about the region's fascinating history and folklore.

Day 6: The Castles of Transylvania

Continue exploring Transylvania's castles and fortified churches. Visit traditional villages and experience authentic rural Transylvanian life. Evening in the scenic Carpathian mountain setting.

Day 7: From Vineyards to Capital

Journey through Romania's wine region with tastings of local wines. Continue to Bucharest, Romania's vibrant capital. Evening city tour and introduction to "The Little Paris of the East."

Day 8: "The Little Paris"

Full day in Bucharest exploring the Palace of Parliament, Revolution Square, and the charming Old Town. Visit museums and experience the city's unique blend of communist-era and belle époque architecture.

Day 9: Introduction to Bulgaria

Cross into Bulgaria and explore Veliko Tarnovo, the medieval capital. Visit Tsarevets Fortress and the charming old town. Continue to Plovdiv or Sofia region for overnight stay.

Day 10: Traditions and Craftsmanship

Visit traditional Bulgarian villages and craft workshops. Experience the Etar ethnographic museum with traditional crafts demonstrations. Learn about Bulgarian rose oil production and herbal cosmetics making.

Day 11: Sofia's Cultural Fusion

Comprehensive Sofia city tour including Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, ancient Roman ruins, National Palace of Culture, and vibrant city center. Visit local markets and experience authentic Bulgarian cuisine.

Day 12: Farewell, Sofia

Morning at leisure for last-minute shopping or optional museum visits. Farewell lunch and transfer to airport. End of an incredible Eastern European adventure with memories to last a lifetime.

General Inclusions

Valid both for Standard and Superior package

Transportation :

Airport arrival transfer
Transportation as per the itinerary with modern, comfortable vehicles tailored to your group size.

Entrances and tickets :

Temple of Saint Sava, Krušedol Monastery, "Astra" National Museum Complex, Bran Castle, Peleș Castle, Damascena Complex with rose water and rakija tasting

Experiences :

Coffee & rakija in a Belgrade tavern (Serbian Daily Routine); Sava and Danube Rivers Cruise (Belgrade Sundown Cruise); Wine tasting in a local winery in Northern Serbia (Wines of Fruška Gora); Cable car ride in the Carpathian Mountains in Romania (Transfăgărășan Scenic Road); Wine tasting in a local winery in Dealu Mare region of Romania (Carpathian Wines); Visit to the ethno village in Bulgaria (Rural Roots of Bulgaria); Natural and handmade herbal cosmetics making experience in an open-air ethnographic museum in Bulgaria (Etar Traditional Crafts)

*Optional experience: Dinner in an Art Noveau restaurant in Bucharest (not included in the price)

Meals :

11 x breakfast
Additional meals included in our experiences

Additional:

Professional English-speaking tour guidance throughout the tour
VAT, accommodation taxes and city taxes
Tour logistics and organization with dedicated service and care
1 bottle of water (0.5l) daily for each passenger

Accommodation

Standard package:

3 BB in Belgrade in Royal Inn 4* / Mercure Excelsior 4* / Central Point 4* or similar
1 BB in Sibiu in Continental Forum Sibiu 4* / Golden Tulip Ana Tower 4* / Art 4* or similar
2 BB in Sinaia in Sinaia 4* / Anda 4* / Vila Economat 4* or similar
2 BB in Bucharest in Capitol 4* / Leonardo Bucharest City Center 4* / Mercure Bucharest City Center 4* or similar
1 BB in Arbanasi / Veliko Tarnovo in Arbanaski Han 4* / Yantra Grand 4* or similar
1 BB in Plovdiv in Grand Plovdiv 4*/ Holiday Inn 4* / Best Western Premier Plovdiv Hills 4* or similar
1 BB in Sofia in Central Sofia 4* / Coop 4* / Abrazo Sofia 4* or similar

Superior package:

3 BB in Belgrade in Envoy 4* / Museum 4* / Moskva 4* or similar
1 BB in Sibiu in Art 4* / Hilton Sibiu 5* or similar
2 BB in Sinaia in International 4* / Vila Economat / Boutique Vila La Kastel 4* or similar
2 BB in Bucharest in Grand Continental 5* / Novotel Bucharest City Center 4* / Mercure Bucharest City Center 4* or similar
1 BB in Arbanasi / Veliko Tarnovo in Arbanaski Han 4* / Yantra Grand 4* or similar
1 BB in Plovdiv in Double Tree by Hilton 4* / Radisson Hotel Plovdiv 4* / Este Park 4*
1 BB in Sofia in Grand Sofia 5* / Sense Sofia 5* / Crystal Palace Boutique Sofia 4* or similar

IMPORTANT

* All participants are responsible for having their own health/travel insurance.
* Please ensure you bring your passport or travel document with you during the trip.
* Kindly note that visa requirements are the responsibility of each traveler and CapeTravel cannot advise on different requirements or restrictions.

Price

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