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From Romania to Greece, orthodox treasures and turquoise water

From Romania to Greece, orthodox treasures and turquoise water


4 stops


6 nights


471 miles


From Romania to the Greek shores of the Aegean, through Bulgaria and Sofia, the route crisscrosses mountains and valleys home to local traditions and towns with a rich cultural heritage, ending in the crystal clear waters of Northern Greece. The itinerary explores different beliefs, illustrated most beautifully by the region's monasteries, which inspire tranquility and serenity in curious travelers.

01

Departure

Recommended duration : 2 nights

Bucharest

Hotel - Restaurant

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central locationFrench neoclassical buildinglocally sourced cuisine

Bucharest, Romania

Epoque Hotel

Discover

Things to do, see, and discover

During your stay

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C?rture?ti Carusel Bookstore in Bucharest

C?rture?ti Carusel Bookstore in Bucharest

Located on Strada Lipscani in the heart of old Bucharest, the C?rture?ti Carusel Bookstore is in a world of its own. People come to this veritable monument to marvel at the six-story bookstore where classic 19th century architecture meets futuristic curves. The shelves are stacked with 10,000 books and you can enjoy peaceful moments in a variety of atmospheres without even noticing the time. One of Bucharest's most Instagrammed monuments!

On the road

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The National Romanian Village Museum

The National Romanian Village Museum

The National Romanian Village Museum brings the country to the city! Nestled right in the Romanian capital, this outdoor eco-museum is a microcosm of the country's rural life. Stretching across several acres, before your eyes unfolds life in the country and the traditions of Romanian farmers.

02

240 milesCar

Recommended duration : 0 night

Sofia

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Etape fictive

Sofia

Things to do, see, and discover

During your stay

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St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: one of the world’s largest Orthodox churches

St. Alexander Nevsky Cathedral: one of the world’s largest Orthodox churches

Built in the Neo-Byzantine style, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral's highly impressive architecture features a bell tower and several domes. Since construction was completed in 1912, it has become a veritable landmark of the Bulgarian capital. As its golden “onion domes” soar upwards over Sofia, this cathedral houses the biggest collection of Orthodox iconography in the crypt below.

On the road

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Rila Monastery

Rila Monastery

Rila Monastery sits in a mountain landscape at an elevation of 1,147 m (3,763 ft) and is the most visited monument in Bulgaria. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the architecture dates back to the 10th century. Stretching across some 8,800 m2(21.5 acres), it has 300 rooms and 100 monastic cells. Still an active church, this Bulgarian religious center inspires serenity and almost makes you want to meditate.

03

110 milesCar

Recommended duration : 2 nights

Zornitza Village (Sandanski)

Things to do, see, and discover

During your stay

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Villa Melnik, a famous cellar on Bulgarian soil

Villa Melnik, a famous cellar on Bulgarian soil

Located 5 km (3 miles) from Melnik, Villa Melnik is a vineyard with nearly 30 hectares (74 acres) of grapevines. A family-owned vineyard carrying on a long wine-making tradition, Villa Melnik is a wonderful place to visit and taste their often award-winning vintages. A goldmine for anyone who loves good wine!

During your stay

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The Melnik Sand Pyramids: a Word Heritage site

The Melnik Sand Pyramids: a Word Heritage site

The Melnik Sand Pyramids is a protected natural site right near the small town of Melnik. The Sand Pyramids can be found southwest of Pirin Mountain and are a place of rare beauty. Spanning 50 km2(19 sq. miles), these rock formations were created by the wind and rain accelerating erosion of the clay soil, which made them look like pointy pyramids and gave them their name. A registered landmark since 1960 that attracts tourists from all corners of the globe, the Melnik Sand Pyramids are a natural phenomenon that changes over time.

04

122 milesCar

Recommended duration : 2 nights

Chalkidiki

Things to do, see, and discover

During your stay

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A permit to visit Mount Athos

A permit to visit Mount Athos

Attending Orthodox Easter on Mount Athos takes great patience and good luck. A site of supreme spirituality for millennia (it is mentioned in Greek mythology), and strictly forbidden to women, it only welcomes 100 visitors of the Orthodox faith and 10 of non-Orthodox faith every day. All entry permits to its monasteries are strictly regulated by the Mount Athos Pilgrims Office. A truly unique experience.

During your stay

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Ammoulianí Island, a paradise of turquoise water

Ammoulianí Island, a paradise of turquoise water

If there were ever unforgettable slices of heaven, this is probably one of them! Ammouliani is a tiny island in the Gulf of Agíou Orous with white sand beaches and deep turquoise waters. It is mainly known for its picturesque charm and easygoing lifestyle. Fall under nature's spell while hiking, diving or boating. The ultimate moment is a visit to Alikes Beach, a little secret gem to keep all for yourself!

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