Bucharest: 6-Day Central Balkans Guided Tour to Istanbul

Set out on a captivating 6-day journey through the heart of the Central Balkans, starting from the vibrant capital of Romania – Bucharest. This guided tour promises to immerse travelers in the rich history and culture of the region, from the medieval charms of Veliko Tarnovo and Plovdiv to the iconic landmarks like Peles and Bran Castles. Along the way, enjoy a scenic Bosphorus cruise in the enchanting city of Istanbul. With comfortable accommodations, included meals, and an experienced guide to lead the way, this tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the Balkans’ vibrant heritage. But what hidden gems and untold stories await those who take the plunge?

Key Points

• This 6-day guided tour takes travelers from Bucharest to Istanbul, with stops in the medieval capitals of Bulgaria and Turkey.
• The tour includes guided walks in Old Town Bucharest, Peles Castle, Bran Castle, and a Bosphorus Strait cruise in Istanbul.
• Accommodations are provided in 3 or 4-star hotels, with daily breakfast included and the option to add additional meals.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, and requires the ability to navigate uneven terrain and walk for extended periods.
• Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and the tour can be booked with various payment options.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

Embarking on a 6-day guided journey through the captivating Central Balkans, this tour takes travelers from the vibrant capital of Romania, Bucharest, to the historic city of Istanbul in Turkey.

Priced from $813.74 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience, including guided walks through Old Town Bucharest and the medieval capitals of Bulgaria and Turkey.

Travelers will visit iconic landmarks like Peles Castle, Bran Castle, and the Bosphorus Strait, all while enjoying comfortable air-conditioned transportation and 3 or 4-star hotel accommodations.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides flexibility and convenience for those seeking an immersive exploration of the region.

Itinerary Highlights

The 6-day itinerary provides a captivating blend of historical sites, medieval charm, and urban exploration across the Central Balkans region.

On the first day, travelers embark on a walking tour through the charming Old Town of Bucharest, visiting the iconic Cărturești Carusel bookstore before enjoying leisurely time in the city.

Day two takes guests to the magnificent Peles Castle and the legendary Bran Castle, associated with Bram Stoker’s Dracula, followed by an evening panoramic bus tour of Bucharest’s highlights.

The journey continues to Veliko Tarnovo, the medieval Bulgarian capital, and Plovdiv, with guided walking tours of their historic Old Towns.

The final destination is Istanbul, where a Bosphorus cruise and free time for shopping and exploration await.

Accommodations

The tour provides 5 nights of accommodation across several locations, with breakfast included each morning. Visitors will stay 2 nights in Bucharest, 1 night in Plovdiv, and 2 nights in Istanbul, all at 3 or 4-star hotels.

These comfortable properties offer modern amenities and convenient locations, allowing guests to easily explore the sights and attractions of each destination.

The accommodations are carefully selected to provide a comfortable and enjoyable experience throughout the tour.

Whether it’s relaxing in the hotel after a day of sightseeing or enjoying a hearty breakfast to fuel the day’s adventures, the tour’s accommodations are designed to enhance the overall experience.

Inclusions

Along With the comfortable accommodations, this Central Balkans guided tour includes a comprehensive array of services and experiences to enhance the overall value for participants.

The tour features guided walking tours in Bucharest, Veliko Tarnovo, Plovdiv, and Istanbul, providing in-depth insights into the rich history and cultural heritage of each destination.

Transportation is handled throughout, with an air-conditioned bus and individual airport transfers.

Entrance fees to all the sites visited are covered, ensuring seamless access.

Breakfast is included daily, and options for additional meals, such as lunches and dinners, are available.

The tour also includes tourist insurance and tips, taking the hassle out of planning.

With these inclusions, participants can focus on seeing the stunning landscapes and captivating stories of the Central Balkans.

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Participant Information

This Central Balkans guided tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women and wheelchair users, as the itinerary may pose certain accessibility challenges.

The meeting point for participants is the arrivals hall at the designated location, where they’ll find a sign bearing their name.

The tour is designed for travelers who can comfortably navigate uneven terrain, climb stairs, and walk for extended periods.

To ensure a seamless experience, participants should:

• Provide any special needs or dietary requirements in advance

• Wear comfortable shoes and bring necessary medications

• Be prepared to explore historical sites and engage in moderate physical activity

Arrival and Departure

Participants arrive at the designated meeting point – the arrivals hall – where they’ll find a sign bearing their name, signaling the start of their Central Balkans guided tour.

From there, they’ll be transferred to their first hotel in Bucharest.

At the end of the 6-day tour, on the final day, you will check out of their Istanbul hotel and be transferred to the Istanbul airport in time for their departing flights.

The tour company ensures smooth airport transfers throughout the journey, allowing travelers to focus on the sights and experiences of the Central Balkans region and Istanbul without worrying about logistics.

Optional Activities

What optional activities can travelers enjoy during the Central Balkans tour?

The tour allows participants to add on a range of optional experiences, such as a visit to the Troyan Monastery in Bulgaria, a traditional Bulgarian folklore dinner show, or a Turkish bath (hamam) experience in Istanbul. These optional activities provide opportunities to further take in the culture and history of the regions visited.

The optional activities include:

• Visiting the Troyan Monastery, a picturesque 19th-century Orthodox monastery in the Balkan Mountains of Bulgaria.

• Attending a traditional Bulgarian folklore dinner show, featuring authentic music, dance, and cuisine.

• Experiencing a Turkish bath (hamam) in Istanbul, a centuries-old bathing ritual that offers relaxation and culture.

Booking and Payment

To book the Bucharest: 6-Day Central Balkans Guided Tour, travelers can reserve their spot on the tour now and pay later.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for participants. Payments can be made conveniently using a variety of options, including credit cards and online payment platforms.

The tour’s pricing starts at $813.74 per person, which covers a range of inclusions such as guided tours, transportation, entrance fees, and breakfast.

Travelers are advised to review the tour’s terms and conditions carefully and reach out to the operator with any questions or special requirements.

Booking early is recommended, as tour availability may be limited.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will There Be Any Stops for Local Cuisine Along the Way?

The tour includes opportunities to sample local cuisine during stops in various locations. While breakfast is included daily, you will have options to purchase lunch, dinner, and other meals featuring regional specialties along the way.

Can We Bring Our Own Snacks and Drinks on the Bus?

Yes, travelers can bring their own snacks and drinks on the bus. However, the tour operator may request that any food or drinks consumed on the bus are tidied up and disposed of properly to maintain cleanliness.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Hotel Accommodations?

Yes, there’s typically an option to upgrade hotel accommodations on guided tours. Travelers can inquire about availability and pricing for higher-rated hotels when booking, based on their preferences and budget.

Can We Join the Tour Mid-Way Through the Itinerary?

Yes, it’s possible to join the tour mid-way through the itinerary. The tour provider generally allows participants to join at any point during the tour, subject to availability and additional costs. However, joining mid-way may impact the overall experience.

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The average group size for this guided tour is not explicitly stated. However, most multi-day group tours range from 10 to 30 participants, allowing for an intimate experience while maintaining logistical efficiency.

Recap

This 6-day guided tour from Bucharest to Istanbul provides an exceptional opportunity to explore the rich history and captivating culture of the Central Balkans.

Travelers will experience guided walks through enchanting medieval cities, visit iconic landmarks, and enjoy a scenic Bosphorus cruise, all while immersed in the region’s vibrant heritage.

With comfortable accommodations, included meals, and a competitive price, this tour offers an immersive and budget-friendly way to discover the essence of the Central Balkans.

You can check if your dates are available here: