Balkan Crossroads: Bulgaria by Rail & Coach: 8 Days from Bucharest to Istanbul

Enjoy a 2-hour guided tour of Veliko Tarnovo, exploring the city’s historic center and its most important landmarks. Discover the impressive Tsarevets Fortress and stroll through the atmospheric old town, with its traditional houses, shops, and cafés.

Take a morning bus to Sofia, Bulgaria’s vibrant capital. In the afternoon, enjoy a half-day guided tour of Sofia, visiting the city’s main landmarks, including Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, the historic center, and the remains of ancient Serdica.

Spend the morning at leisure in Sofia before departing for Bansko, with a visit to the spectacular Rila Monastery en route. Nestled in the mountains, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Bulgaria’s most important cultural and religious landmarks before continuing to Bansko museum town. Dinner at a traditional Bansko mehana ( restaurant )

Enjoy a full day in Bansko, a charming mountain town at the foot of the Pirin Mountain National Park ( UNESCO site ). Explore its historic old town, traditional stone-and-timber houses, and local restaurants, or take advantage of the surrounding mountains for hiking and sightseeing.

Upon interest, we can provide information for optional nature activities and rates.

Travel from Bansko towards Plovdiv on the famous narrow-gauge railway, one of the most scenic train journeys in Bulgaria. The route winds through mountain valleys and remote villages, offering beautiful views of the Bulgarian countryside before arriving in Plovdiv.

Discover Plovdiv, one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, with a 1.5-hour guided tour included. Explore the Old Town, the Roman Theatre, Kapana creative district, and the charming cobbled streets lined with colorful historic houses.

Depart Plovdiv for Istanbul by daytime bus or overnight train, depending on the preferred schedule ( TBA ).

The journey continues through southern Bulgaria towards the Turkish border, with a connection at Dimitrovgrad if travelling by train, and an arrival in Istanbul the following morning.

Please note no accommodation in Istanbul is included