Romania, Bulgaria & Turkey Discovery

Intrepid Travel · 16 days
Romania, Bulgaria & Turkey Discovery
Romania, Bulgaria & Turkey Discovery
Romania, Bulgaria & Turkey Discovery
Romania, Bulgaria & Turkey Discovery
Romania, Bulgaria & Turkey Discovery
Romania, Bulgaria & Turkey Discovery
Romania, Bulgaria & Turkey Discovery
Romania, Bulgaria & Turkey Discovery
Romania, Bulgaria & Turkey Discovery
Romania, Bulgaria & Turkey Discovery
Romania, Bulgaria & Turkey Discovery
Romania, Bulgaria & Turkey Discovery
Romania, Bulgaria & Turkey Discovery
16 Days
From AUD $5640
Trip Type
Small Group
Activity Level
Light

Rating


 (2 reviews)

Romania, Bulgaria & Turkey Discovery

Romania, Bulgaria & Turkey Discovery

Intrepid Travel · 16 days
5.0
2 Reviews
View Map
Duration

16 days

Tour Type

Small Group

Accommodations

Moderate

Physical Rating

Light

Guide Language

English

Experience Overview

Embark on a spectacular journey from Romania and through Bulgaria to Turkey, discovering the architectural grandeur and quaint cultural enclaves that make this such an intriguing part of the world.

Highlights

  • Immerse yourself in the communist past and vibrant present of Bucharest, a city often underrated by travellers
  • Travel through the scenic Rila Mountains in Bulgaria, mingling with monks at the 10th-century Rila Monastery
  • Breathe the crisp air on a hike and take in stunning view in the Pirin Mountain.
  • Discover the incredible ancient and modern history of Turkey as you explore thousands of years of history hidden within the remarkable ruins of Ephesus and discover Gallipoli on a guided tour that will teach you about the significant events that took place in this area.
  • Taste local fruit wines in one of the best-preserved Greek Ottoman villages in the country. Get to know the friendly locals with a home-made lunch at a local family in Cappadocia.

Trip Details

Duration

16 days

Transportation

Train,Public Bus,Private vehicle,Metro,Taxi,Chairlift,Overnight Train,Plane

Tour Type

Small Group

Guide Language

English

Starts

Bucharest, Bulgaria

Finishes

Istanbul , Bulgaria

Accommodations

Moderate

Travel Style

Explorer

Physical Rating

Light

Itinerary

1
Day 1: Bucharest
Salut! Welcome to Romania. Your adventure begins in Bucharest – home to one of Europe's biggest squares and the Palace of Parliament, the second largest building in the world. If you arrive early, maybe take a tour of the palace (former dictator Nicolae Ceausescu ordered the construction of this 12-storied building and it includes 1100 rooms and 4500 chandeliers), or visit his former residence where he lived with his family. Consider an Urban Adventures day tour, like the Bohemian Bucharest tour, for the perfect city introduction. Later, you’ll have a welcome meeting at about 6 pm. Then, why not seek out some traditional Romanian fare with the group.

Optional Activities:

  • Bucharest - Palace of Parliament Tour (60 RON)
  • Bucharest - Village Museum (30 RON)
  • Bucharest - Bike Tour (25 EUR)
  • Bucharest - Former Ceausescu Residence (65 RON)
  • Bucharest - Romanian Athenaeum (10 RON)
  • Bucharest - Urban Adventures Bohemian Bucharest (75 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
2
Day 2: Veliko Tarnovo
Travel across the friendship bridge into Bulgaria and on to the town of Veliko Tarnovo – founded in 4500 BC by the Neolithic people, the Romans later built the first fortress walls. In the 6th century, a Byzantine capital was established on Tsarevets Hill by Emperor Justinian. After the foundation of the second Bulgarian empire, it became the second most important city in the region (after Constantinople) and trade and culture flourished for the next 200 years. In 1393, the town fell to the Turks who held the city until the Russians liberated it in 1877. When you arrive, head out with your leader for an orientation walk, finishing in the Old Town at a family-owned establishment. Here, a local chef will invite you to an authentic and interactive experience that will showcase the rich history of Bulgarian cheese and wine making. The menu includes tasty items such as truffle cheese, cold cuts and locally produced premium wine – what could be a better introduction to the country?

Included Activities:

  • Veliko Tarnovo- Orientation Walk
  • Veliko Tarnovo- Local Cheese and Wine Workshop

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
3
Day 3: Veliko Tarnovo
This morning, visit Veliko Tarnovo's imposing Tsarevets Fortress, which overlooks the city. This once-magnificent fortress was built in the 7th century and the ruined citadel is the perfect spot to wander. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the City of Tsars. Wander through the Old Quarter, with its preserved Renaissance houses and handicraft workshops, or relax in one of the town's cafes or vinarnas (wine bars)

Included Activities:

  • Veliko Tarnovo - Tsarevets Fortress

Optional Activities:

  • Veliko Tarnovo - Archeological Museum (6 BGN)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
4
Day 4: Sofia
In the morning, take a public bus to Sofia – Bulgaria's capital is a cosmopolitan city with wide tree-lined boulevards and parks. You've got the rest of the day to wander, so maybe begin with a browse around the cured meats and cheese of the Central Market Hall, then take a walk through the city and see the gold-domed Alexander Nevski Church. You might want to sate your cultural curiosity at the National History Museum, discover artefacts at the National Archaeological Museum, or spend a couple of hours staring at the local artworks in the National Art Gallery.

Optional Activities:

  • Sofia - National Art Gallery (10 BGN)
  • Sofia - Aleksander Nevski Church - Free
  • Sofia - National History Museum (15 BGN)
  • Sofia - The Red Flat (18 BGN)
  • Sofia - Walking Tour with Local Guide from (17 BGN)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
5
Day 5: Bansko
Today, journey into the Rila Mountains, where you'll visit the impressive Rila Monastery. Tucked away in a valley, this UNESCO World Heritage site is the largest and holiest of Bulgaria's orthodox monasteries. Founded in 927, the entire complex is a work of art in itself. Check out murals, the 14th-century Hrelyo Tower, the five-domed Birth of the Blessed Virgin Church and the original 19th-century monastery kitchen. Then, carry on to Bansko. Set at the base of the Pirin Mountains, Bansko is home to more than 150 cultural monuments and many of its stone houses have been transformed into mehanes (taverns). Wander through Vazrazhdane and check out the frescoes of the Church of Sveta Troitsa or the paintings in the Rilski Convent. Tonight, indulge in some local cuisine and try filet elena (spicy cured meat) or kapama (simmered meat, rice and sauerkraut), washing it down with some delicious melnik (dark red wine).

Included Activities:

  • Rila - Monastery Visit

Optional Activities:

  • Bansko - Spa Visit (40 BGN)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
6
Day 6: Plovdiv
Drive to Vihren Chalet – the starting point of today’s hike in the Pirin Mountains. You’ll head to a small but picturesque Okoto Lake (2000 m above the sea level) for clear views over the valley with Mt Vihren, the range's highest peak, to the west. If you’re feeling up to it, you can continue to Banderitsko Lake, or opt to stay in Bansko and visit the thermal baths. In the afternoon, board the only operational gauge line in Bulgaria – Rhodope Railway – to Septemvri. After the scenic ride, you’ll continue to Plovdiv – on the Maritsa River, this city was once the meeting point of two ancient transportation routes. In the evening, maybe try some of the local grilled meats and vegetables on skewers.

Included Activities:

  • Pirin Mountains - Hike
  • Rhodope Narrow-Gauge Railway
  • Plovdiv-Private Transfer from Plovdiv Train Station to Plovdiv Hotel

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
7
Day 7: Plovdiv
This morning, join a local guide for a tour of the main sights of Plovdiv. The most remarkable being the ancient Roman theatre, accidentally ‘discovered’ after a landslide exposed the site in the early 1970s. Built in the 2nd century BC during the reign of Trajanus, the theatre seats about 6000 people and is now back in use! From here, wander up to the site of the former hilltop fortress of Nebet Tepe, where you can enjoy excellent views of the city. Head back down to visit the 15th-century Dzhumaya Mosque, which is still in use today. Then, enjoy a free afternoon to explore the city at your own pace.

Included Activities:

  • Plovdiv - Walking Tour with Local Guide

Optional Activities:

  • Plovdiv - Bachkovo Monastery (16 BGN)
  • Plovdiv - Hisarya Hot Springs (50 BGN)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
8
Day 8: Istanbul
Get ready for a long day of travel today that takes you from Europe to Asia. Grab a window seat if you can and watch the scenery pass you by or get stuck into a good book. You'll be travelling how the locals do – on a bus along the Tsarigrad Road, also named the Road to Istanbul. When you arrive in the continent-straddling metropolis that the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans have called home, you'll have some free time to settle in. Tonight, maybe join your new friends for an optional dinner and bask in the beauty of a real Turkish kebab (yum!).

Included Activities:

  • Istanbul- Private Transfer from Istanbul Bus Station to Istanbul Hotel
  • Plovdiv- Private Transfer from Plovdiv Hotel to Plovdiv Bus Station

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
9
Day 9: Istanbul
Enjoy a free morning until your group meeting at 1 pm, followed by a guided tour of the Old City with your expert leader. Visit the scene of many a chariot race in the ancient hippodrome, check out the Blue Mosque, take a walk past the wares of the Grand Bazaar and marvel at the architectural masterpiece that is Suleymaniye Cami. If you're not too exhausted after all the exploring, join your new friends for dinner and bask in the beauty of a real Turkish kebab. While you might be familiar with the shaved meats and pita bread sensation that you may have come across at 2 am, nothing beats the kind they wrap up in Istanbul.

Included Activities:

  • Istanbul - Old City Walking Tour (Half Day)

Optional Activities:

  • Istanbul - Bosphorus Boat Cruise (Public Boat) (200 TRY)
  • Istanbul - Topkapi Palace Combined Ticket (Topkapi Palace + Hagia Irene + Harem) (2000 TRY)
  • Istanbul - Galata Tower (30 EUR)
  • Istanbul - Hagia Sophia (25 EUR)
  • Istanbul - Archaeology Museum (15 EUR)
  • Istanbul - Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts (17 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
10
Day 10: Canakkale
After breakfast this morning, hit the road enroute to Canakkale – a port city on the southern shore of the Dardanelles. You’ll stop along the way to explore Gallipoli on a guided tour that will teach you about the significant events and history embedded in this area. Your guide will take you to ANZAC Cove and major memorial sites like Brighton Beach and ANZAC commemorative Site. You’ll also take in the views across the Dardanelles Strait and the Gallipoli Peninsula. This evening, we’ll spend the night in Canakkale with free time to grab dinner and get ready for tomorrow’s adventures.

Included Activities:

  • Gallipoli - Fully guided Gallipoli tour & visit to the Commonwealth graveyards

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
11
Day 11: Selcuk
This morning, we’ll drive to Selcuk with a stop in Troy – where history and mythology sit side-by-side – along the way. You’ll wander the ancient city walls with your group leader and even get a chance to enjoy a photo op with a replica Trojan Horse. You’ll learn more about how this place has confounded historians and archaeologists alike before continuing on to Selcuk. After arrival in the town, on the slopes of Ayasoluk Hill lie several historical buildings – you’ll follow your leader on an orientation walk, passing Isa Bey Mosque and the imposing Byzantine citadel of the Grand Fortress.Then drive out to the nearby picturesque village of Sirince and taste some locally produced fruit wines. This authentic Greek Ottoman village seems to have been overlooked by modern development and the unique local architecture nestled in the hills make for a photographer's dream. Return to Selcuk and the evening is yours.

Included Activities:

  • Sirince - Village visit and fruit wine tasting
  • Troy - Archaeological site visit
  • Selcuk - Leader-led orientation walk

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
12
Day 12: Ephesus/Overnight Train
This morning, take a private minivan to visit the ruins of the ancient city of Ephesus – one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman classical cities in the world. Once the capital city of Roman Asia Minor, the city has a fascinating history, which really comes alive with a local guide to enhance your experience. Considering their age, the ruins are in incredible shape, and it’s not difficult to imagine them in their full glory over 2000 years ago, equipped with running water, public toilets, a medical institute, and Roman baths. The theatre is well preserved and regularly hosts concerts, but it's perhaps the magnificent library that is the most striking. Then enjoy a lunch after the tour and don't miss out the chance of peeking into their kitchen where the local ladies make the delicious gozleme. You'll some free time later before being transferred to Izmir in the early evening - an overnight train, will be waiting to transport you through the night to the central Anatolian city of Konya.

Included Activities:

  • Ephesus - Archaeological site visit
  • Selcuk - Artemis Temple Visit
  • Selcuk - Gozleme making demonstration and lunch

Optional Activities:

  • Selcuk - Basilica of St John (6 EUR)
  • Selcuk - Ephesus Archaeological Museum (10 EUR)
  • Ephesus - Terrace Houses entry (15 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Overnight train (Number of Nights: 1)
13
Day 13: Konya / Cappadocia
Wake up in Konya, a traditional Turkish city that's closely linked with the whirling dervish sect of Islam developed in the 13th century by Celaleddin Rumi, considered one of Islam's greatest Sufi mystics. Visit the Mevlana Museum and stretch your legs in town before hitting the road to Cappadocia. Keep an eye out for the fairy chimneys, the hallmarks of Cappadocia's otherworldly landscape, as you drive across the Anatolian plains. Stop enroute at one of the underground cities that once provided a safe haven in times of war or persecution. Arrive in the Cappadocian town of Ugrup in the late afternoon and take a sunset valley walk before settling in for the evening. This evening, you'll be treated to a stay in a local cave hotel that Cappadocia is famous for here.

Included Activities:

  • Cappadocia - Kaymakli Underground City
  • Konya - Mevlana Museum

Optional Activities:

  • Goreme - Whirling dervish performance (30 EUR)
  • Goreme - Turkish Night with Dinner (50 EUR)
  • Nevsehir - Whirling Dervish Tour (40 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
14
Day 14: Cappadocia
This morning you have the option to take a hot air balloon flight, a once-in-a-lifetime experience during which the sun illuminates a skyline dotted with balloons. Later this morning, enjoy a guided walk through one of the nearby valleys, possibly the Valley of Love, which features fairy chimneys, deserted rock-cut homes and churches. Your leader will know a number of fantastic scenic routes, and a good walk is by far the best way to experience this unique environment. In your free time today, maybe visit the UNESCO-listed Goreme Open Air Museum, a monastic complex composed of churches, rectories and dwellings cut into the soft cliff face, or check out the Dark Church. This evening you’ll be warmly welcomed into a local home where the family will prepare a special home-cooked dinner for you and your group. Sit down to a feast made with passion, enjoy a friendly chat with your affable host and perhaps top off the night with some Turkish delight.

Included Activities:

  • Cappadocia - Valley walk
  • Cappadocia - Dinner at Local Family Home

Optional Activities:

  • Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Regular Flight (200 EUR)
  • Cappadocia - Hot Air Balloon Deluxe Flight (230 EUR)
  • Goreme - Valley Tour (20 EUR)
  • Goreme - Open Air Museum (including entrance & transport) (min. 4 participants) (30 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
15
Day 15: Cappadocia to Istanbul
Wave goodbye to Cappadocia and transfer to the airport for a flight back to Istanbul (expect to arrive between 1 pm and 4 pm), and get transferred to your hotel. Meet up with your travel buds in the evening and take a stroll to one of the city's trendiest neighbourhoods, a place of contradictions where tool-selling tradesman share space with chic cafes and galleries – this is the place to be seen. Perhaps, try a local favourite, balik ekmek (fish sandwich), for dinner, then cleanse the palate with a baklava. Maybe check out a few of the bars, or simply enjoy a farewell cay (Turkish tea) overlooking the Bosphorus.

Optional Activities:

  • Istanbul - Water Marbling (35 EUR)
  • Istanbul - Private Bosphorus Cruise Sunset with Soft Drinks (560 EUR)
  • Istanbul - Beyoglu Night Tasting Trail (85 EUR)
  • Istanbul - Coffee Workshop (32 EUR)
  • Istanbul - Mosaic Lamp Workshop (50 EUR)

Accommodation:

  • Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
16
Day 16: Istanbul
Your Turkey adventure comes to an end after breakfast today, and there are no activities planned. However, if you'd like to spend more time in Istanbul, we’re happy to organise additional accommodation (subject to availability).
Exclusions
  • Flights to and from origin and destinations
  • Airport transfers (arrival and departure)
  • Anything else not explicitly listed in tour inclusions
  • Recommended gratuities/tipping
  • Optional activities/tours
  • Personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Visas, meals and beverages not stated in the list of inclusions.
Important Information
Meals

When meals are not included, your tour leader (where available) will be happy to help with restaurant recommendations, bookings, and directions. Please let us know if you have any dietary needs or preferences. We willdo our best to accommodate these, though we cannot guarantee that every request can be met.

Luggage

You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. You will need to carry your own bags between the vehicle and your hotel room. Drivers will assist with loading and unloading luggage from the vehicle.

Mobility

Travellers requiring wheelchair access should contact our sales and service team, who can make enquiries on your behalf.

Fitness Level

This tour requires an Average level of fitness. Activities are paced gently and include leisure time. You may be expected to join guided walks of up to one hour, navigate short stairways and mild inclines, and manage your own luggage. You should also be able to board and exit all transport without assistance.

Travellers are expected to be self-sufficient and capable of handling all aspects of their journey. Please discuss your circumstances and support needs with your booking agent to confirm this trip is suitable.

If you are unsure, we recommend consulting your doctor before booking or travelling. (Note: I assume each tour has a different description depending on level of fitness required).

Sightseeing

If a planned site visit is unavailable due to changes in operating hours or holiday closures, the itinerary may be altered, or a comparable activity will be substituted where possible and subject to availability.

Visas

Visa conditions can change. Once you receive your travel documents, check with the relevant embassy, consulate, or immigration office of your destination for the latest information.

  • It is your responsibility to ensure you have the correct and valid travel documents and to comply with all entry requirements.
  • Non-Australian citizens must also confirm visa and identification requirements with the appropriate consulate or visa agency.
  • Certain occupations (for example, journalists, government officials, or those working in charities) may face additional restrictions when applying for visas, which could affect the type of application required.
Departure Dates & Surcharges: See checkout for live dates and availability.
AUD $5,640
(Tour only)
Per Person Twin Share

Duration: 16 days

Trip Type: Small Group

Activity Level: Light

Embark on a spectacular journey from Romania and through Bulgaria to Turkey, discovering the architectural grandeur and quaint cultural enclaves that make this such an intriguing part of the world.

Check Availability Brochure

Price based on per person in Double Room for departure 20 Oct 2025

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Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
Excellent
4.5
Guide
Excellent
4.5
Itinerary
Excellent
4.5
Accommodations
Excellent
4.5
Transportation
Excellent
4.5
Tour Operator
Excellent
4.5
Food
Excellent
4.5
5.0
Sheranne
Traveled, April 2025

04/22/2025

Thoroughly enjoyed this trip ,exceeded expectations, our leader was a legend, made life long memories of the eastern European countries.

5.0
Elaine
Traveled, October 2023

11/04/2023

The itinerary is intense but we saw so much in our 16 day trip and the experiences were so unforgettable, it was well worth the effort - plus we met people from different parts of the planet and made some new friends.

Tour Operator

Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.

In Business Since 1989

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