Bulgaria Private Tour - Basarbovo, Arbanasi, Tsarevets & Veliko
Our tour begins with a visit to St. Dimitrii of Basarbovo Monastery, the only active rock-hewn monastery in Bulgaria. Nestled in the cliffs of the Rusenski Lom River, this peaceful sanctuary dates back to the 12th century.
Next, we head to the picturesque architectural reserve of Arbanasi, perched above Veliko Tarnovo. Enjoy a traditional Bulgarian lunch in a charming local tavern, surrounded by centuries-old stone houses. Afterward, take a short walk through the cobbled streets to admire the village’s unique architecture.
After lunch, explore the crown jewel of Bulgaria’s medieval past—Tsarevets Fortress. Once the royal seat of the Second Bulgarian Empire, the hilltop citadel offers panoramic views, the ruins of royal palaces, Baldwin’s Tower, and the reconstructed Patriarchal Cathedral.
We conclude the tour with a leisurely stroll through the charming streets of Veliko Tarnovo, the “City of the Tsars.” Discover local artisan shops, visit the Samovodska Charshiya
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Private tour in English
Only your group will participa
Pickup included
What's included in Bulgaria Private Tour - Basarbovo, Arbanasi, Tsarevets & Veliko
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
St. Dimitrii of Basarbovo Monastery
St. Dimitrii of Basarbovo Monastery is a unique Bulgarian Orthodox rock-hewn monastery located near the village of Basarbovo, approximately 10 km south of Ruse, along the Rusenski Lom River. It is renowned as Bulgaria's only active rock monastery. Historical Background The monastery's origins trace back to the Second Bulgarian Empire (12th–14th centuries), with its first documented mention appearing in an Ottoman tax register from 1431. Its most celebrated inhabitant was St. Dimitrii of Basarbovo, born in 1685 in the nearby village. He led an ascetic life within the monastery's caves and passed away in 1685. Initially interred in the village church, his relics were later transferred to Bucharest during the Russo-Turkish War (1768–1774) and are currently enshrined in the Church of Sts. Constantine and Helena, where he is venerated as the patron saint of the Romanian capital.
Arbanasi
Arbanasi is a picturesque village in central northern Bulgaria, situated approximately 4 km from Veliko Tarnovo, the historic capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire. Perched on a high plateau between the Tsarevets and Trapezitsa hills, Arbanasi is renowned for its rich history, unique architecture, and well-preserved cultural heritage. --- ️ Historical Significance The village's origins date back to the 13th century, with some sources suggesting it was founded by Bulgarian boyars (nobles) who settled there after the Battle of Klokotnitsa in 1230. The name "Arbanasi" is believed to derive from the medieval Bulgarian word "Arbanas," meaning "Albanian," reflecting the settlement's early inhabitants. In the 16th and 17th centuries, Arbanasi flourished as a prosperous trading center. Wealthy merchants built distinctive two-story houses resembling fortresses, characterized by high stone walls, narrow windows, and heavy wooden gates, designed to protect against frequent raids.
Tsarevets
Tsarevets Fortress is a medieval stronghold located in Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria, and it is one of the most significant historical monuments in the country. It served as the primary fortress and royal residence of the Second Bulgarian Empire (1185–1396), when Veliko Tarnovo was the capital. --- Key Features: Hilltop Location: The fortress sits on Tsarevets Hill, surrounded on three sides by the Yantra River, offering a natural defense and dramatic views. Fortification Walls: The outer walls are about 3 meters thick and enclose a large area with over 400 residential and administrative buildings, churches, and towers. Baldwin’s Tower: A reconstructed watchtower named after Baldwin I of Constantinople, who was captured and allegedly died in the fortress after the Battle of Adrianople (1205). Royal Palace: Located at the highest point, the ruins of the Palace of the Bulgarian Tsars include a throne hall, royal church, and royal chambers.
Inclusions
- Hotel Pick-up
- Private transportation
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Professional tour guide in English
- Tsarevets Fortress
- St. Dimitrii of Basarbovo Monastery
- Lunch
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Pickup and Dropoff
Choose to be picked up from a list of locations
Please arrive at the pick up point 5 minutes before departure time.
Additional Information
We do pickup from all hotels, Airbnb or any address in Bucharest
