Loading...From Bucharest to Ivanovo Churches
The tour will start at 08:00 am when we’ll pick you up from the hotel. We will cross the Romanian-Bulgarian border over Danube River, then we’ll stop near Ivanovo village to visit an impressive complex of monolithic churches listed as UNESCO Heritage since 1979: Ivanovo Churches.
This complex of rock-hewn churches, chapels, monasteries and cells dating from 12th century is famous mainly for its frescos, which are great examples of Bulgarian mediaeval art. Although created in 13th -14th century, the frescoes are well preserved in 5 of the churches of this large complex.
Visiting Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi
The next stop of our guided tour will be in Veliko Tarnovo, one of the most beautiful cities in Bulgaria and former capital of the country. Also known as the City of Tsars, Veliko Tarnovo impresses with its breathtaking location on the hills around the medieval Fortress of Tsarevets. The medieval atmosphere is well kept in the city thanks to the old architecture and the narrow streets where local craftsmen can be observed during their work.
We will admire the ruins of the former Tsarevets Palace and we will visit the Patriarchal Church displaying some modern and intriguing paintings. Then we will walk on Samovodene Street, full of shops displaying charming artisan products.
Arbanassi, a picturesque village and World Heritage Site located very close to Veliko Tarnovo, is the next place we will visit. The village is known for the rich history and large number of historical monuments, such as 17th and 18th century churches and examples of Bulgarian National Revival architecture.
We will enjoy free time for lunch in one of the many traditional restaurants of Arbanassi. Then we will visit Konstantzalieva House, built in the 17th century and belonging to one of the rich merchant families of the place. We will complete our tour with the half underground Church of the Nativity, the earliest in Arbanassi. Our day trip ends after returning to Bucharest.
Tour Itinerary
Bucharest – Ivanovo – Veliko Tarnovo – Village of Arbanassi – Bucharest
The price for our Veliko Tarnovo trip INCLUDES:
- Transport by car/minibus
- Fuel
- English speaking driver and guide
- Entrance fees to sites included in the program
The price for our Veliko Tarnovo trip EXCLUDES:
- Meals (aprox. 10 Euro/person/meal).
- Travel insurance
- Visa procurement (if needed)
- Video and photo fees
Please take note:
* Ivanovo churches are closed during the winter season between 1 December and 31 March.
** Taking this tour, you are leaving Romania and entering Bulgaria; please ensure that your Visa requirements are in order. Also, it’s essential that you carry your passport.
*** From July 2015 until March 2016, rehabilitation works take place at the bridge crossing over Danube river and connecting Romania to Bulgaria. Because of these works, it’s possible to wait longer to cross the border between countries.
Tour Itinerary
Bucharest – Ivanovo – Veliko Tarnovo – Village of Arbanassi – Bucharest
Departure: 8 am (recommended) from your hotel