Capitals of Eastern Europe

  • From $9,499
  • |
  • 17 Days
  • |
  • 12 Guided Tours
  • |
  • 7 Countries

Pleven, Bulgaria

  • Historic building with fountains in foreground

Pleven is surrounded by limestone hills in an agricultural region of the Danubian Plain. It was a stronghold of the Bulgarian Empire and has more than 450 places of architectural and cultural significance. It was a key fortress during the Ottoman Empire and became an important trade center from the 15th to the 19th century. Several museums and monuments in the town are dedicated to the Siege of Pleven, fought during the Russo-Turkish War of 1877-1878. Today, the town is a major economic hub and the third largest in Northern Bulgaria.

Shore Excursions

Shore excursions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.

Historic church with cannons at entrance

Panoramic Pleven

Discover Pleven, one of the most beautiful cities in Bulgaria, located on the scenic Danubian plain.

Included
Historic church with cannons at entrance

Panoramic Pleven

Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes      

Explore the City’s History and Landmarks

Discover Pleven, one of the most beautiful cities in Bulgaria, located on the scenic Danubian plain. Embark on a scenic drive by motor coach to the heart of the city to explore its cultural delights. Here, you will visit St. Nicholas Orthodox Church, built in 1834, and enjoy a stroll through the city’s pedestrianized district, passing Pleven’s cascading fountains. Arrive at the St. George Chapel mausoleum and enjoy a guided tour. Built in 1907 in dedication to St. George, the patron saint of soldiers, the landmark honors the Russian and Romanian soldiers who fought in the 1877 Siege of Pleven during the Russo-Turkish War. Continue to the Pleven Epopee 1877 Panorama, a monument created by 13 Russian and Bulgarian artists to commemorate the battle. After refreshments at a local Balkan restaurant, you will return to your coach and drive back to your awaiting ship.

* Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.
Stone lion statue at medieval fortress

Veliko Tarnovo & Arbanasi

Tour two cultural gems rich in Bulgarian heritage during this full-day excursion into the heart of the country.
Stone lion statue at medieval fortress

Veliko Tarnovo & Arbanasi

Duration: 8 hours 30 minutes      

Witness True Bulgarian Character

Tour two cultural gems rich in Bulgarian heritage during this full-day excursion into the heart of the country. Begin with a drive through Ruse, then continue to Veliko Tarnovo, a fascinating medieval town built around Tsarevets Hill and its castle. After a coffee break, stop at the Yantra River bridge for a nice view of the majestic Assenev Brothers monument, a towering obelisk flanked by horses. Next, explore Samovodska Charshia, a traditional street teeming with handicrafts, or visit the castle ruins and enjoy vistas of the Old Town and countryside. Afterward, proceed to Arbanasi, rich in history and Greek influence. After lunch at a local restaurant, sample the Damascus rose products, locally made from the essence of roses. After, you will visit a local merchant house and see the intricate frescoes of the Nativity Church with a local guide.

* Easy - Walking portions are generally over easy surfaces with few steps or inclines. Total time walking or standing is normally not longer than 1.5 hours.
Shore excursions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.