Self-guided tour to Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi from Sofia

Take a walking tour around the medieval hill-fortress of Tsarevets – the capital of Bulgaria from 12th till 14th century. Visit the astonishing Nativity of Jesus Church with an unique frescoes depicting 2000 biblical scenes and over 3500 images of saints. See the scenic architectural reserve of Arbanassi, located on a plateau granting visitors with superb views of the Balkan Mountains and Veliko Tarnovo.Veliko Tyrnovo will teleport you back in time to the spectacular rise and fall of the mighty capital of the Second Bulgarian kingdom (12-14 century).By walking on the winding cobble streets, you will learn and feel how its proud population lived under the Turkish oppression, developing fabulous architectural masterpieces and established cohesive and powerful craftsmen’s guild. Hear the legends and stories, the interesting history and see the picturesque location of Arbanassi and Veliko Tyrnovo which gained them numerous fanatical admirers in Bulgaria and abroad, making the region a top tourist attraction on the Balkans.The tour includes the most important sights: Tsarevets architectural and museum reserve (medieval stronghold), Samovodskata charshia (lively craftmen’s street), Assens’ monument and the museum village of Arbanassi – famous for its 17th and 18th architecture and the unique Church of the Nativity of Christ, with well preserved murals depicting over 2000 Old and New Testiment scenes.