Enchanting Balkans & Transylvania: Bulgaria and Romania
Jun 22, 2026
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Jul 3, 2026

Enchanting Balkans & Transylvania: Bulgaria and Romania

ABOUT THE TOUR

Join us for an exciting journey through the beautiful landscapes of Bulgaria and Romania. Enjoy Sofia, Bulgaria’s vibrant capital, as well as picturesque Plovdiv, Europe’s oldest city. Meet with leading scholars, intellectuals, and diplomats for an in-depth investigation of the politics and culture of Bulgaria and Romania. Take in the beauty of the Balkan & Carpathian Mountains, visit East Orthodox monasteries, and learn about the customs of the ancient Thracians. Sample delicious indigenous wines, and taste traditional dishes from both countries’ national cuisines. Explore fascinating Transylvania, home to royal palaces, Saxon citadels, and magic castles. A highlight of the tour will be Bran Castle, of mythic Dracula fame. Take in the beauty of Brasov and Sibiu, two of Romania’s most stunning fortified cities. End the tour in Bucharest, Romania’s charming capital, and savor its turn-of-the-century Parisian flair.

 

$4,940 per person, plus airfare and taxes.

 

Travel insurance is available through our trusted partner USI – they can be reached at 800.937.1387 or at USI Travel Insurance.

 

Reserve your space below, call us at 800.942.5004, or email travel@wacphila.org for any questions.

 

Once you reserve your tour, consider offsetting the carbon emissions from your international flights. Use this Sustainable Travel International calculator to get started.

YOUR TOUR LEADER

Joseph Benatov

Joseph Benatov

Director of the Modern Hebrew Language Program and the Associate Director of the Jewish Studies Program at the University of Pennsylvania

Joseph Benatov holds a Ph.D. in comparative literature from the University of Pennsylvania, where he teaches Hebrew. He is originally from Sofia, Bulgaria, and he received his BA & MA degrees from Sofia University. Joseph has over 25 years of experience leading travelers on specialized tours across the Balkans, including UNESCO missions, Jewish-themed trips, Balkan dance, music, and folklore programs, and arts & crafts tours. Joseph takes a keen interest in Balkan cuisine and winemaking, so be prepared for some fine wine-and-dining along the way. You will also meet leading Bulgarian sommeliers, oenologists, chefs, winemakers, culinary experts, and gifted village home cooks who will provide specialized insights into the world of Bulgarian viticulture and gastronomy.
Oct 29 - Nov 9, 2024

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