Veliko Tarnovo - Arbanassi - Shipka Memorial Church - private tour from Plovdiv
Description
Explore the picturesque Veliko Turnovo, the capital of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom, boasting of many historical monuments including the imposing medieval fortress Tsarevets and the nearby Arbanassi - one of Bulgaria's most remarkable historic villages.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Shipka Memorial Churchis an outstanding Bulgarian Orthodox temple built between 1885 and 1902 in Shipka town at the foothills of the Balkan Range. The Shipka Monument complex is dedicated to the Russian, Ukrainian and Bulgarian soldiers who died for the liberation of Bulgaria in the Russo – Turkish War in 1877-78.
Arbanassi is one of Bulgaria’s most remarkable villages. It is known for the rich history and large number of historical monuments, such as 17-th and 18-th century churches and examples of Bulgarian National Revival architecture. We discover the oldest church in the village – Nativity of Christ (1637 – 1649), dug into the ground without a belfry and with hidden cupola. This impressive monument, fully painted from the inside is a genuine art gallery of murals with over 3 500 stunningly realistic figures and Biblical scenes, painted by unknown artists throughout the ages. Our next stop is the Konstantsalieva house museum originally built in the 17-th century and beautifully restored in National Revival style. It reflects not only the wealth of the owners but also the attention to detail and the quality craftsmanship of that time.
One of the most amazing landmarks of Bulgaria is its former capital Veliko Tarnovo (population: 71 000). The charming town is amphitheatrically situated at 210 m a. s. l. on the Yantra River. The historical capital of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom attracts many tourists with its unique architecture and beautiful landscapes. The first site we explore in town is the imposing Tsarevets Fortress – a medieval stronghold located on a hill with the same name.Tsarevets served as Bulgarian Empire’s primary fortress and strongest bulwark from 1185 to 1393. Then we go for a walk along the lovely Veliko Tarnovo main street, the picturesque Gourko Street and the authentic Samovodska Charshiya Street in the Old Town where we see some crafts exhibits, pieces of art and traditional souvenirs.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
Travelers are collected from any hotel (accommodation) or location within Plovdiv city. Travelers must provide their pick up location upon booking or closer to their tour date.
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Reviews(6)
Very interesting tour, especially thanks to Kamen who provided comprehensive explanations above all the visited sites, all really worth a visit!
Thanks a lot!
Excellent excursion. Our driver-guide has done an admirable job, with patience, professionalism and friendliness. It has exceeded all my expectations. 100 percent recommended.
A most interesting, informative and humorous day was had with history, geography, fine food and a spot of retail thrown in for good measure. Karol was the perfect host at all times so it was a wonderful day out!
Our guide was very polite and thoughtful. He, Carmen, provided good explanations of the sites visited and interesting facts. He was attentive to our needs and gave us privacy when needed. We strongly recommend this guided trip. It is well organised as well and includes good restaurant advice. High five! Нашият водач беше много учтив и внимателен. Той, Кармен, даде добри обяснения на посетените сайтове и интересни факти. Той беше внимателен към нашите нужди и ни даваше поверителност при нужда. Силно препоръчваме това пътуване с екскурзовод. Той също е добре организиран и включва добри съвети за ресторанта. Висока пет!
Thank you Simon! I also had a great day with you. And the weather was just perfect. Thank you for booking in difficult times as well!
I was the only person on the excursion, so it was a completely private trip, and I could pick and choose aspects of it. In terms of the sights, Shipka and Arbanassi are excellent if you like ornate Orthodox churches, like me, and Veliko Tarnovo, with its fortress, is a must for an insight into Bulgarian history. The guide was great, happy, cheerful, friendly and chatty throughout, even though it was a very hot day and we were both a bit frazzled after a while. He even saved a turtle. The car was fine and comfy with a/c. I have removed one point out of five because the company kept pestering my guide all day long with repeated texts and phone calls. That we had to break off conversations a few times is a minor annoyance, but that he had to take calls while driving is a clear road safety issue.
Hello, And thank you for your time to review your trip. Please note that during the very busy season communication with the guides might be urgent at some times. The guide you had on that day is one of our best ones and he took only urgent calls that were short. He had declined all the personal calls and calls that weren’t urgent in order to provide the best possible service. I’m quite sure you have noticed your guide was the safest driver you can have. Safety has never been an issue during your trip (as it is always with our tours) and I’m surprised that you bring up this “road safety issue”. According to Bulgarian road laws (and road regulations in all countries around the world) driving and talking on the phone is allowed only when both hands of the driver are on the steering wheel. Your driver had always had his hands on the wheel while on the phone and he had answered urgent calls only. And you had the safest trip possible.
very interesting history plus beautiful scenery guide very knowledgeable and pleasant tour a lot better than expected. Would definitely use Viator again if coming if going to Bulgaria
From the text of your review I see that you actually had a 5 points trip with our guide. Thanks for that!
