On the drive from Bucharest to the Greek island of Thassos, the historic village of Arbanasi in Bulgaria presents itself as an ideal stop for rest and exploration. Located approximately 4 km northeast of Veliko Tarnovo, the former medieval capital of Bulgaria, Arbanasi offers a fascinating glimpse into Bulgarian history and culture, serving as a strategic stopping point on the way to the final destination.
Distances and travel duration
Bucharest - Arbanasi: Approximately 320 km, estimated driving time 4-5 hours
Arbanasi - Thassos (Keramoti): Approximately 460 km, estimated driving time 5-6 hours
These distances make Arbanasi an ideal stop to split the journey into two comfortable days, providing the opportunity to explore this architectural and cultural gem of Bulgaria.
Accommodation in Arbanasi
Arbanasi offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to traditional guesthouses. Here are some recommendations:
Hotel Izvora
Style: Traditional Bulgarian
Amenities: Restaurant, garden, free Wi-Fi
Price: Moderate
Sevastokrator Hotel
Style: Modern with traditional elements
Amenities: Pool, spa, restaurant with panoramic view
Price: Moderate to high
Arbanassi Palace
Style: Luxury in Bulgarian Renaissance style
Amenities: Indoor pool, spa, gourmet restaurant
Price: High
Guest House Arbanashki Han
Style: Traditional guesthouse
Amenities: Restaurant, garden, free Wi-Fi
Price: Affordable
Rachev Hotel Residence
Style: Boutique hotel
Amenities: Restaurant, garden, spacious rooms
Price: Moderate
Tourist attractions in and around Arbanasi
Church of the Nativity of Christ
Dating back to the 16th century
Famous for its well-preserved frescoes
Visiting hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (check for updates)
Konstantsaliev House
17th-century house-museum
An excellent example of Bulgarian residential architecture
Visiting hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM (also check for updates)
St. Nicholas Monastery
16th-century Orthodox monastery
Impressive architecture and beautiful gardens
Church of Saints Michael and Gabriel
Dating back to the 17th century
Interior frescoes are remarkable
Veliko Tarnovo (4 km away)
Tsarevets Fortress
Samovodska Charshia Craft Street
National Museum of History
Activities in and around Arbanasi
Guided Village Tour
Duration: 2-3 hours
Includes main attractions and historical insights
Local Wine Tasting
Organized at Lyaskovets Winery (15 km away)
Advance booking recommended
Walk through Arbanasi Natural Park
Easy hiking trails
Panoramic views of the region
Traditional Craft Workshop
Available in Veliko Tarnovo
Learn weaving or pottery techniques
Sound and Light Show at Tsarevets
In Veliko Tarnovo (check the schedule)
An impressive audiovisual experience
Best restaurants in Arbanasi
Arbanashki Han Tavern
Cuisine: Traditional Bulgarian
Specialties: Kavarma (meat stew), Shopska salad
Atmosphere: Rustic, with a beautiful garden
Price: Moderate
Restaurant Izvora
Cuisine: Bulgarian and international
Specialties: Fresh fish, stew dishes
Atmosphere: Elegant, with panoramic views
Price: Moderate to high
Sevastokrator Restaurant
Cuisine: Bulgarian-Mediterranean fusion
Specialties: Lamb dishes, traditional desserts
Atmosphere: Sophisticated, with a terrace
Price: High
Strannopriem'nitsa Restaurant
Cuisine: Authentic Bulgarian
Specialties: Traditional soups, grills
Atmosphere: Renovated traditional house
Price: Affordable
Hebros Restaurant (in Veliko Tarnovo)
Cuisine: Modern Bulgarian
Specialties: Seasonal menu with local ingredients
Atmosphere: Elegant, with city views
Price: Moderate to high
Practical tips for stopping in Arbanasi
Advance Booking: Especially in the tourist season (June-September), it's recommended to book accommodation and meals at popular restaurants in advance.
Transport: Although Arbanasi is a small village, you may need a car or taxi to visit attractions in Veliko Tarnovo.
Currency: Prepare with Bulgarian levs, although many locations also accept credit cards.
Visiting Time: Plan for at least one night and a full day to explore Arbanasi and its surroundings.
Tour Guide: Consider hiring a local guide for a richer experience and detailed information about the area's history.
Souvenirs: Look for local craft products, such as textiles, ceramics, or traditional food items.
Photography: Check photography rules in churches and monasteries, as some may have restrictions.
Accommodation prices in Arbanasi
Recommended hotels in Arbanasi for an overnight stay en route to Thassos (note, prices are valid at the time of writing this article):
Rachev Hotel Residence
4-star hotel with outdoor pool and spa center
Offers rooms with LCD TV and free Wi-Fi
Has a restaurant with a covered terrace
Booking score: 7.9/10 from 666 reviews
Average price: approximately 67 USD per night
Sevastokrator Relax & Congress
One of the most popular hotels in Arbanasi
User score: 8.5/10
Offers amenities such as a pool and a spa center
Park Hotel Arbanassi
User score: 8.1/10
Good location for exploring the area
Arbanassi Palace Hotel
Restaurant with 80 seats and varied menu
Lobby bar and terrace with 40 seats
Panoramic view towards Veliko Tarnovo
Hotel Izvora
Traditional Bulgarian style
Amenities: restaurant, garden, free Wi-Fi
Moderate price
Arbanasi provides a perfect break on the journey from Bucharest to Thassos, combining relaxation with cultural exploration. With its unique architecture, rich history, and Bulgarian hospitality, this picturesque village will offer you a memorable experience. Whether you choose to relax in a luxury hotel, explore the historical churches, enjoy local cuisine, or take a stroll through the surrounding nature, Arbanasi has something to offer every traveler. This stop will not only provide a welcome break from driving but will also add a significant cultural dimension to your journey. Plan your time here carefully to ensure you can fully savor all this charming village has to offer before continuing your route to the sunny beaches of the island of Thassos. Arbanasi is not just a practical stop, but a destination in its own right, worthy of exploration and appreciation.
