Full-Day Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi Tour From Sofia

Exploring the rich history and vibrant culture of Bulgaria is a captivating adventure that awaits visitors on the full-day tour from Sofia to Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi. Departing early, this guided excursion whisks travelers through the scenic countryside, offering a chance to uncover the stunning Tsarevets Fortress and the charming streets of Veliko Tarnovo. But the journey doesn’t end there, as the tour also ventures into the tranquil beauty of Arbanassi, where visitors can enjoy the region’s renowned 17th and 18th-century architecture and vibrant frescoes. With a complimentary lunch and air-conditioned transport, this comprehensive tour promises an unforgettable glimpse into Bulgaria’s captivating past and present.

Key Points

• A full-day guided tour from Sofia to the historic cities of Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi, including transportation, lunch, and hotel pickup/drop-off.
• Explore the former capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire, Veliko Tarnovo, with its Tsarevets Fortress, colorful houses, and local markets.
• Visit Arbanassi, a village renowned for its 17th and 18th-century architecture, including the Nativity Church with vibrant frescoes and woodcarvings.
• Tour is priced at $149.31 per person, accommodates up to 50 travelers, and departs at 8:30 am with an English-speaking guide.
• Cancellation is free up to 24 hours prior, and confirmation is provided within 48 hours of booking.

Tour Overview

The full-day Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi tour from Sofia provides an immersive exploration of Bulgaria’s rich cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes. Priced from $149.31 per person, the tour accommodates up to 50 travelers and departs from Sofia at 8:30 am.

Throughout the day, guests will be guided in English and transported by air-conditioned minivan, with hotel pickup and drop-off included. The tour features visits to the historic town of Veliko Tarnovo and the charming village of Arbanassi, as well as a complimentary lunch.

Infants are welcomed, and service animals are permitted. Cancellations are free up to 24 hours prior, and confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

Inclusions

This tour typically includes a guide in English, hotel pickup and drop-off, and transportation by air-conditioned minivan.

Plus, all fees and taxes are covered, and a complimentary lunch is provided. Infant seats are available, and service animals are allowed on the tour.

The inclusions of this tour are:

• Guided tour in English
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Air-conditioned minivan transportation
• All fees and taxes covered
• Complimentary lunch
• Infant seats available
• Service animals allowed

These inclusions ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for participants, covering transportation, meals, and accessibility needs.

Pickup Information

Tour participants should be ready at their hotel reception or a specified address by the start time of 08:30 am. If no message has been received regarding a different pick-up time, travelers can assume the original schedule will be followed. The tour operator will provide transportation via an air-conditioned minivan to the destinations of Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi.

Pick-Up Time	Pick-Up Location	Estimated Arrival Time
8:30 AM	Hotel Reception	9:00 AM
8:35 AM	Specified Address	9:05 AM
8:40 AM	Central Meeting Point	9:10 AM
8:45 AM	Lobby of Major Hotel	9:15 AM
8:50 AM	Train Station	9:20 AM

Participants are advised to be ready and waiting at their designated pick-up spot to ensure a punctual start to the day’s activities.

Cancellation and Confirmation

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts is available, with confirmation received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. This policy offers travelers flexibility and peace of mind when planning their tour.

Some key considerations around cancellation and confirmation include:

• Cancellations made within 24 hours of the start time aren’t eligible for a refund.

• Confirmation is provided electronically, so customers should check their email and spam folders to ensure they receive the necessary details.

• If no confirmation is received within 48 hours, customers should contact the tour operator to ensure their booking has been processed.

• Availability may be limited, especially during peak seasons, so early booking is recommended to secure a spot on the tour.

Additional Information

As per the additional information provided, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but operates in all weather conditions, so participants should dress appropriately for the day’s forecast.

It’s located near public transportation, and most travelers are able to participate.

The tour has received an impressive 5.0 rating based on 1 review, though no ratings below 5 stars have been submitted.

Travelers can expect a guided tour of Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi, with transportation provided by an air-conditioned minivan and lunch included.

The tour starts at 8:30 am, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience begins, subject to availability.

Exploring Veliko Tarnovo

Upon arrival in Veliko Tarnovo, travelers explore the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. The former capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire boasts impressive medieval architecture, including the Tsarevets Fortress, which once served as the royal citadel and is now a major tourist attraction. Visitors can wander the cobblestone streets, admiring the colorful houses and lively market squares that reflect the city’s vibrant past.

Visitors can climb to the top of the Tsarevets Fortress for panoramic views of the city and the Yantra River.

The Nativity of the Virgin Church, with its striking frescoes and architecture, is another must-see site.

The Samovodska Charshia is a bustling marketplace where travelers can find local handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional Bulgarian cuisine.

The Asenov’s Fortress, situated on a hilltop, offers stunning vistas and insights into the region’s military history.

Discovering Arbanassi

After exploring the historic city of Veliko Tarnovo, the tour continues on to the charming village of Arbanassi, which is renowned for its well-preserved 17th and 18th-century architecture and traditional Bulgarian culture. Visitors will have the chance to wander through the cobblestone streets, admiring the impressive churches, monasteries, and grand houses that line the picturesque lanes. The highlight of the visit is the Nativity Church, with its vibrant frescoes and intricate woodcarvings. Guests can also browse the local shops and sample delicious Bulgarian cuisine in one of the quaint restaurants. With its tranquil atmosphere and rich history, Arbanassi offers a peaceful respite from the bustling city.

Feature	Description
Architecture	17th and 18th-century buildings, including churches, monasteries, and houses
Attractions	Nativity Church, with its frescoes and woodcarvings
Activities	Wandering the cobblestone streets, shopping, dining
Atmosphere	Tranquil, with a focus on traditional Bulgarian culture

Recap

The full-day tour from Sofia to Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi provides an immersive experience in Bulgaria’s rich history and culture.

Visitors can explore the impressive Tsarevets Fortress, stroll through the charming streets of Veliko Tarnovo, and discover the architectural gems of Arbanassi.

With hotel pickup, air-conditioned transport, and a complimentary lunch, this guided tour offers a convenient and comprehensive way to uncover the allure of these two captivating Bulgarian destinations.