Bucharest to Plovdiv

A journey through sacred legends, medieval artistry, and royal Bulgarian heritage

Enhance your trip with meaningful cultural detours as you travel from Romania into Bulgaria. This unique route invites you to explore ancient monasteries, UNESCO-listed rock churches, and the medieval heart of Bulgaria’s royal history in Veliko Tarnovo. Perfect for travelers who want more than just a ride — this is history on the move.

Optional Sightseeing Stops

Comana Monastery (Romania)

Founded by Vlad the Impaler in 1461, Comana Monastery was built as a fortified religious complex, once located on an island surrounded by swamps. Archeological findings in the 1970s revealed a headless body, believed by some historians to be that of Vlad himself. With a deep connection to Romanian lore and Orthodox spirituality, this monastery is a place of both mystery and serenity.

Sveta Troitsa Church (Ruse, Bulgaria)

Built in 1632 below ground level, the Church of the Holy Trinity (Sveta Troitsa) was designed to comply with Ottoman-era restrictions on Christian worship. It houses a richly adorned wooden iconostasis, faux-marble columns, and iconic murals. The striking 19-meter, five-bell hexagonal tower was constructed with stones salvaged from a medieval fortress, adding to the site’s layered history. Inside, a museum exhibition showcases religious artifacts and rare icons, including a 16th-century Gospel.

Basarbovo Monastery (Bulgaria)

Nestled above the Rusenski Lom River, Basarbovo Monastery is the only active rock monastery in Bulgaria today. Carved directly into limestone cliffs, this serene monastic complex dates back to the 17th century and honors Saint Dimitar Basarbovski, a local ascetic known for his humility and miracles. Its dramatic setting and ongoing religious function make it a spiritual and visual highlight of the region.

Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo (UNESCO Site)

Carved into solid rock between the 13th and 17th centuries, the churches of Ivanovo are a remarkable testament to Bulgarian Orthodox monasticism. Though many structures have been lost, the remaining frescoes are considered masterpieces of medieval Eastern European art. The site is now protected as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated for its spiritual significance and artistic excellence.

Veliko Tarnovo – The City of the Tsars

Perched on three hills and once the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire, Veliko Tarnovo is an open-air museum of Bulgarian history. Explore Tsarevets Fortress, cobbled lanes, and merchant houses from the National Revival era. With remnants of medieval glory standing alongside Ottoman and socialist-era buildings, the city offers a rich and layered historical experience in every step.

Why Choose These Stops?

• Explore fortresses, monasteries, and UNESCO sites in one seamless route

• Learn about Orthodox traditions, medieval power, and cultural resilience

• Perfect for travelers interested in religion, history, architecture, or legends

• Travel at your own pace, combining relaxation with discovery

• Ideal for day trips or cross-border cultural transfers

Add Depth to Your Journey

This itinerary isn’t just about getting from point A to point B — it’s about what you discover in between. From sacred caves to royal cities, every stop brings you closer to the spirit of the Balkans.

ZigoTravel – History. Heritage. Your Way.