Veliko - The Former Capital of the Bulgarian Empire -Private Tour

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11 hours (approx.)

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Overview

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

What's Included

Hotel Pick-up
Private transportation
Air-conditioned vehicle
Professional tour guide in English

Lunch
Tsarevets Fortress
St. Dimitrii of Basarbovo Monastery

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Meeting and Pickup

Pickup point

Pickup details

We do pickup from all hotels, Airbnb or any address in Bucharest

What To Expect

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 BackgroundThe 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.

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

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 SignificanceThe 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.

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

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.

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Veliko Tarnovo

Veliko Tarnovo is a historic city in central northern Bulgaria, famously known as the medieval capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire (1185–1396). Perched on three hills—Tsarevets, Trapezitsa, and Sveta Gora—and overlooking the winding Yantra River, the city is one of Bulgaria’s most picturesque and culturally significant destinations.---Historical Overview:Ancient Origins: Archaeological evidence shows that Veliko Tarnovo was inhabited since the Neolithic period, later becoming an important Thracian and Roman settlement.Medieval Glory: It rose to prominence after the successful uprising of the Asen and Peter brothers in 1185, becoming the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire.Cultural and Spiritual Center: The city was a hub for Orthodox Christianity, literature, and architecture, earning it the nickname “Third Rome” by some historians.---Key Attractions:Tsarevets Fortress – The grand medieval stronghold with royal and patriarchal buildings.

1 hour • Admission Ticket Free

Samovodska Charshiya Complex

Samovodska Charshiya is a historic artisan district in the heart of Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria, renowned for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture and vibrant cultural heritage. Established in the 1860s and 1870s, it served as the city's bustling market and craft center during the National Revival period .---️ Historical SignificanceThe name "Samovodska" originates from the nearby village of Samovodene, whose women would lay out their produce on colorful rugs in the market, a tradition that continues in spirit today. The district comprises two narrow cobblestone streets lined with Revival-style houses, workshops, and inns, reflecting the economic and cultural life of Veliko Tarnovo during the late 19th century .---️ Artisan WorkshopsSamovodska Charshiya remains a living testament to traditional Bulgarian craftsmanship. Visitors can explore various active workshops, including:

30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free

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Additional Info

Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Passport is required to cross the border into Bulgaria.

Frequently Asked Questions

(6)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Veliko – The Former Capital of the Bulgarian Empire -Private Tour?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (EEST). Read more Apr 2025