- Accommodation
- Attractions
- Exclusive Tour
- Folklore
- Fortified Churches
- Holiday in Maramures
- Holiday in Transylvania
- Holiday to Romania
- Long Tour
- Meals included
- Medieval Castles
- Medieval Cities
- Mountains
- Private Guided Tour
- Private Tour
- Salt Mines
- Saxon Villages
- Tours in Maramures
- Tours in Romania
- Tours in Transylvania
- Traditional Food
- Traditional Villages
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Walking
- Wildlife
- Wooden Churches
DISCOVER THE BEST OF MARAMURES AND TRANSYLVANIA IN 9 DAYS
Embark on a 9-day adventure exploring the cultural treasures and historic sites of Maramures and Transylvania. This comprehensive tour offers a deep dive into the region’s rich heritage, from the iconic wooden churches of Maramures to the medieval citadel of Sighisoara and the legendary castles of Transylvania.
Highlights include a journey through the beautiful landscapes of the Carpathian Mountains, unique encounters with local traditions, and immersive experiences such as a traditional Romanian folklore show. With expert guidance, comfortable accommodations, and a personalized itinerary, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Romania’s most cherished regions. Whether you’re a history buff, culture enthusiast, or nature lover, this tour caters to all interests, ensuring a diverse and enriching travel experience.
The tour can be personalised according to your time and points of interest.
Itinerary: Bucharest Arrival – Olt River Gorges – Cozia Monastery – Sibiu Walking Tour – Corvin Castle – Alba Iulia Citadel – Turda Salt Mine – Cluj-Napoca Walking Tour – Organic Smoked Bacon Tasting with Lunch – Wooden Churches of Maramures – Home Hosted Dinner – Aighetu Marmatiei Communism Memorial – Sapanta Merry Cemetery – Sapanta Peri Monastery – Dinner with Folklore Show – Barsana & Ieud Wooden Churches – Woman Museum – Borgo Pass – Exclusive Gypsy Home Visit – Sighisoara Walking Tour – Saxon Village of Saschiz & Viscri with the Fortified Churches – Exclusive Viscri Village Tour & Traditional Lunch – Wildness Bear Observatory – Bear Sanctuary – Bran Castle – Brasov Walking Tour – Peles Castle – Bucharest Departure
| DEPARTURE/RETURN | Start and end your journey at Henri Coandă International Airport in Bucharest, with options to customize the starting and ending points according to your travel plans. |
| TRANSPORTATION | Travel comfortably in a fully insured car or minivan equipped with climate control and ample space to relax between stops. Vehicles are maintained to high standards to ensure safety and comfort throughout your journey across Romania. |
| TOURIST GUIDE | Each group will be accompanied by a certified English-speaking tourist guide, knowledgeable in Romanian history, culture, and folklore. Guides for other languages are available on request, ensuring a personalized and informative experience throughout the tour. |
| 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and 2 on the Tentative List | Barsana Wooden Church (Maramures Wooden Churches) – A spectacular example of traditional Carpathian wooden architecture, known for its tall, slim tower and ornate wooden carvings. Ieud Wooden Church (Maramures Wooden Churches) – One of the oldest wooden churches in the region, showcasing intricate craftsmanship and historic frescoes. Surdesti Wooden Church (Maramures Wooden Churches) – Famous for its high tower and traditional wooden construction, reflecting the unique spiritual and architectural heritage of Maramures. Budesti-Josani Wooden Church (Maramures Wooden Churches) – Known for its Gothic-style tower and rich historical significance, blending architectural beauty with cultural history. Historic Center of Sighisoara – A remarkably well-preserved example of a small, fortified medieval town, which played an important strategic and commercial role on the fringes of central Europe for several centuries. Saschiz Fortified Church (Villages with Fortified Church in Transylvania)– Recognized for its imposing clock tower and defensive structure, reminiscent of the larger Sighisoara Clock Tower. Viscri Fortified Church (Villages with Fortified Church in Transylvania)– Notable for its robust defensive architecture and the traditional village that surrounds it, providing a glimpse into the rural life of Transylvania. Historic Centre of Sibiu and its Ensemble of Squares (Tentative List for UNESCO World Heritage Sites) – Celebrated for its blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture, reflecting the region’s historical depth and cultural crossroads. Historic Town of Alba Iulia (Tentative List for UNESCO World Heritage Sites) – Known for its well-preserved citadel, Alba Iulia is a symbol of unity and nationalism, housing some of the most important architectural and historical monuments in Romania |
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND UNIQUE CULTURAL CONNECTIONS
- Immerse in the Past: Experience the rich cultural tapestry of Romania by visiting ancient sites and engaging in traditional practices.
- Sibiu’s Historical Richness: Wander the old streets of Sibiu, exploring its grand squares and viewing houses with the iconic “Sibiu eyes.”
- Majestic Castles: Tour the famous Bran Castle and the luxurious Peles Castle, each with its unique story and breathtaking architecture.
- Maramures Wooden Churches: Discover the remarkable wooden churches of Maramures, showcasing unique gothic-style timber constructions that are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- Bear Conservation: Visit a sanctuary dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating bears, providing insights into wildlife protection.
- Sighisoara Medieval Charm: Explore the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, a well-preserved medieval citadel also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Artisanal Craftsmanship: Witness traditional blacksmithing in Viscri and participate in an egg-painting workshop, preserving centuries-old crafts.
- Gypsy Culture: Gain unique insights into the Roma community with an exclusive home visit, learning about their traditions and way of life.
- Scenic Train Rides: Enjoy a memorable ride through the picturesque landscapes of Romania on a historic steam train.
- Folklore Evenings: Experience authentic Romanian culture with dinners accompanied by traditional folklore shows in Maramures.
| DEPARTURE/RETURN | Start and end your journey at Henri Coandă International Airport in Bucharest, with options to customize the starting and ending points according to your travel plans. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| TRANSPORTATION | Travel comfortably in a fully insured car or minivan equipped with climate control and ample space to relax between stops. Vehicles are maintained to high standards to ensure safety and comfort throughout your journey across Romania. | ||||||||||||||||||||
| TOURIST GUIDE | Each group will be accompanied by a certified English-speaking tourist guide, knowledgeable in Romanian history, culture, and folklore. Guides for other languages are available on request, ensuring a personalized and informative experience throughout the tour. | ||||||||||||||||||||
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Day 1: Bucharest Arrival
Once at your hotel, settle into your accommodations and take some time to relax and refresh after your journey.
Day 2: Bucharest – Olt River Gorges – Cozia Monastery – Sibiu Walking Tour
Embark on an enriching journey as you depart Bucharest and head towards the picturesque region of Transylvania after you meet your certified English-speaking guide. The day’s adventure begins with a scenic drive through the lush landscapes surrounding the Olt River, Romania’s longest river. As you navigate through the stunning Olt River Gorges, take in the majestic views of steep cliffs and dense forests that line this historic waterway, offering ample opportunities for breathtaking photos.
Your first stop is Cozia Monastery, nestled on the banks of the Olt River. This architectural gem, built by Mircea the Elder in 1388, is one of the oldest and most significant Orthodox monasteries in Romania. Explore the monastery’s well-preserved frescoes and the serene grounds, providing a peaceful glimpse into the spiritual heritage of Romania.
Continue your journey to Sibiu, a cultural and historical hub once the capital of Transylvania. Upon arrival, engage in a guided walking tour of this charming city, known for its Germanic architecture and the iconic ‘eyes of Sibiu’—small attic windows that resemble watching eyes, adding to the city’s enchanting atmosphere. Wander through Sibiu’s main squares—Piața Mare and Piața Mică—lined with colorful houses and bustling with activity. Visit key landmarks like the Brukenthal National Museum and the Lutheran Cathedral, where you can climb the steeple for panoramic views of the city and beyond.
After a day filled with natural beauty and historical exploration, settle into your accommodation in Sibiu. The evening offers the perfect opportunity to further explore the local cuisine and vibrant culture of this beautiful city, setting the tone for the rest of your memorable journey through Romania.
***Summer Variation: The Transfagarasan Highway Adventure
During the summer months (July to November), your journey to Sibiu takes an adventurous turn with a drive on the spectacular Transfagarasan Highway. Hailed as “the best road in the world” by Top Gear, this route offers an unforgettable experience with its stunning mountain vistas and serpentine paths. As you ascend to Balea Lake, situated at 2,034 meters, the breathtaking landscapes of Romania unfold before you.
A stop at the Poenari Citadel, the real stronghold of Vlad the Impaler, adds a historical dimension to your journey. Perched high on a cliff, the citadel’s ruins offer not only a glimpse into the past but also panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Day 3: Corvin Castle – Alba Iulia Citadel – Turda Salt Mine – Cluj Napoca
After immersing yourself in the medieval grandeur of Corvin Castle, the tour leads you to the Alba Iulia Citadel, a fortress with a unique star shape that encapsulates the evolution of military architecture in Transylvania. This citadel is not just a military monument but a symbol of unity and freedom, marking the place where Romania stepped into the modern age of national unity in 1918. Stroll along its bastions and ramparts, and admire the beautifully restored gates and museums that tell the story of Romania’s Great Union.
Conclude your day with a descent into the depths of the Turda Salt Mine, a place where history and modernity meet beneath the Earth’s surface. This ancient salt mine, dating back to Roman times, has been transformed into an underground theme park with attractions that include an amphitheater, a Ferris wheel, and even a boating lake on the mine’s lowest level. The mine’s atmospheric lighting and echoes of the past make this a surreal and unforgettable experience.
After a day of historical exploration and unique discoveries, return to your accommodation in Cluj-Napoca. The city’s vibrant atmosphere offers the perfect backdrop to reflect on the day’s adventures.
Day 4: Cluj Napoca Walking Tour – Organic Smoked Bacon Tasting with Home-made Lunch – Surdesti & Budesti Wooden Churches – Home Hosted Dinner in Maramures
Next, venture into the picturesque Romanian countryside, where you’ll experience the renowned hospitality and culinary traditions of the region. Visit a local farm to partake in an organic smoked bacon tasting, accompanied by a homemade lunch prepared by your hosts. Here, you can appreciate the authentic flavors of freshly made dishes, learning about the traditional methods of smoking and preparing meats that have been passed down through generations.
After lunch, travel north to the historic region of Maramures, renowned for its wooden churches and rich spiritual heritage. Visit several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Wooden Church of Surdesti and the Wooden Church of Ieud, both celebrated for their beautiful timber constructions and intricate detailing. These churches are not only religious centers but also symbols of the local community’s woodworking skills and deep-rooted faith.
Conclude your day with a home-hosted dinner in a traditional Maramures village. This intimate experience allows you to engage with local residents, understand their way of life, and enjoy regional specialties in a warm, familial setting. The evening offers an authentic glimpse into the cultural fabric of Maramures, making it a memorable part of your Romanian adventure.
Day 5: Exclusive Walking Tour – Sighetu Marmatiei – Communism Memorial – Sapanta Merry Cemetery – Sapanta Peri Monastery– Dinner with Folklore Show
Next, your journey takes you to Sighetu Marmatiei, where you will visit the profound Memorial of the Victims of Communism and of the Resistance. This former prison now serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during Romania’s communist era, housing a series of exhibits that tell the heart-wrenching stories of those who suffered under the regime.
From there, travel to the lively Sapanta Merry Cemetery. Known for its colorful tombstones with humorous and poetic epitaphs, this cemetery celebrates the lives of the deceased with wit and vivid imagery, showcasing the unique cultural perspective on life and death in this region. Each tombstone is a work of art, telling a story about the person’s life with icons and verses.
Nearby, visit the impressive Sapanta Peri Monastery, which boasts the tallest wooden church in the world. Admire the intricate woodwork and serene setting that make this site a spiritual haven and a masterpiece of Maramures carpentry.
Conclude your day with a dinner accompanied by a traditional folklore show. This evening is an exhilarating celebration of Romanian cultural heritage, featuring vibrant music and dance that highlight the spirited folklore of Maramures. Engage with the performers and local community in a festive setting, making for an unforgettable night.
Day 6: Barsana & Ieud Wooden Churches – Woman Museum – Borgo Pass – Exclusive Gypsy Home Visit – Sighisoara
Next, explore the intriguing Woman Museum, dedicated to the role and impact of women in the rural culture of Romania. This museum showcases traditional female crafts, costumes, and the significant roles women have played in sustaining the cultural traditions of their communities.
As you travel through the picturesque Borgo Pass, enjoy the dramatic landscapes that have inspired countless myths and legends, including those of Dracula. This scenic route provides stunning views and a thrilling sense of adventure as you traverse the heart of Transylvania.
Experience a truly unique cultural encounter with an exclusive visit to a Gypsy home. This visit offers firsthand insight into the vibrant and often misunderstood Romani culture. Learn about their traditions, crafts, and way of life, which enrich the cultural tapestry of Romania.
End your day in the enchanting medieval town of Sighisoara, one of the best-preserved citadels in Europe and the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler. Explore its cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and the iconic Clock Tower that stands as a symbol of the town’s rich history. Check into your hotel and prepare to explore more of this historic gem in the following days.
You can also choose to participate in an optional Transylvanian palinka tasting in a 500-year-old cellar in Sighisoara.
***Optional: Transylvanian palinka tasting in a 500-year old cellar in Sighisoara
Day 7: Sighisoara Walking Tour – Saxon Village of Saschiz & Viscri with the Fortified Churches – Exclusive Viscri Village Tour & Traditional Lunch – Wildness Bear Observatory
After immersing yourself in Sighisoara’s atmospheric past, journey to the Saxon village of Saschiz. Famous for its Fortified Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Saschiz mirrors the architectural style of Sighisoara and provides insight into the region’s defensive strategies against medieval invaders. While in Saschiz, indulge in a delightful jam tasting session, where you’ll savor traditional preserves made just like grandmother used to make, capturing the essence of local fruits in every spoonful.
Next, travel to the picturesque village of Viscri, another gem in the crown of Transylvania’s Saxon heritage. Viscri is distinguished by its iconic white Fortified Church, also a UNESCO site, which you will explore during your visit. Dive deeper into local crafts with a visit to a blacksmith’s workshop where traditional skills are kept alive by passionate artisans. Experience the village in a unique way with a horse cart ride, offering a leisurely pace to take in the rustic scenery and the beautifully preserved houses.
Enjoy a homemade lunch prepared by local hosts in Viscri, where you’ll taste authentic dishes that offer a true flavor of rural Transylvania. This meal provides not only nourishment but also a deeper connection to the region’s culinary traditions and a chance to engage with the community.
Conclude your day with an excursion to the Wildness Bear Observatory. Nestled in the dense forests surrounding the area, this observatory provides a safe and ethical way to observe Carpathian brown bears in their natural habitat. The platform is carefully positioned to offer an unobtrusive view of the bears as they go about their daily activities, allowing for spectacular wildlife watching opportunities.
Day 8: Bear Sanctuary – Bran Castle – Brasov Walking Tour
Next on your itinerary is the iconic Bran Castle, often associated with the legend of Dracula. This 14th-century fortress, perched atop a 200-foot-high rock, boasts a dramatic architectural style that perfectly matches the myths surrounding Vlad the Impaler. Explore the castle’s many rooms and secret passages and learn about its history as a royal residence and its connection to Bram Stoker’s famous novel. The visit provides not only historical insights but also panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes from the castle’s towers and terraces.
Conclude your day with a walking tour of Brasov, one of Romania’s most charming cities, nestled at the foot of the Carpathian Mountains. Discover the Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture as you stroll through the Council Square, admired for its beauty and lined with colorful baroque buildings. Visit the Black Church, the largest Gothic church in Romania, known for its impressive collection of Turkish carpets. Wander down Rope Street, one of the narrowest streets in Europe, and absorb the medieval charm of the city.
This day combines natural wonders with cultural treasures, providing a rich tapestry of experiences that showcase the diversity of Romania’s historical landscape and its natural environment, an optional dinner in a nearby village can be arranged.
***An optional dinner in a nearby village can be arranged.
Day 9: Peles Castle – Bucharest Departure
After touring the castle, enjoy the scenic drive back to Bucharest. Reflect on the memories and experiences of your journey as you pass through the picturesque landscapes that define Romania. Upon arrival in Bucharest, your driver will ensure a smooth transfer to Henri Coandă International Airport for your departure flight. This final leg of your trip offers a moment to ponder the rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty you’ve encountered, leaving you with lasting impressions of Romania’s heritage and the warmth of its people.
***Optional: You can choose a Bucharest City Tour (requires one extra day)
NOTE: The tour is further customizable.
Traditional Romanian welcome dinner with Folklore Show
In the evening, you can opt to serve a traditional dinner at a local restaurant with an idyllic view, situated on the lakeshore in Bucharest’s most famous park, the Herastrau or Michael I Park. Here, you will enjoy a three-course meal dinner with wine included, and you will get a chance to discover the traditional Romanian folklore costumes while enjoying the dances of the local performers. The entire show displays authentic Romanian traditions and customs, from the sewn details on the white outfits of the dancers to the delighting music played by the local artists.
Three-hour trip in Ukraine, to Solotvina and Nyzhnya Apsha
After Sapanta Peri Monastery visit, you can chose to visit the Ukrainian Maramures with a visit to Solotvina, which is the Ukrainian part of the Romanian town. And you will have the chance to visit Nyzhnya Apsha village. This region was in Transylvania until 1920.
Extra full day Bucharest City Tour
After the breakfast, we will start the visit of the capital city of Romania. The day starts with a visit to the Village Museum, one of the most impressive open-air museums in Europe with century old original peasant households from all parts of Romania.
After, we will visit the world’s largest, heaviest and most expensive administrative building, the Palace of Parliament. Between the two communist landmarks, we will have a panoramic tour of the city with Victory Square and Avenue, Royal Palace and Revolution Square and a short stop and visit of the Romanian Athenaeum. Next, we will attend a visit to the former residence of Ceausescu family, the last communist leader of the Socialist Republic of Romania. In contradistinction with the Ceausescu former residence we will have an incursion back in time, in the communist time, where you will have the opportunity to experience life in the 80’s with the help of authentic decor and furniture, working appliances and household accessories, local drinks and homemade snacks and historical and archive footage.
Before arriving in the old city center we will stop in the Cotroceni Neighborhood where we will visit the Presidential Palace and a typical 1930s Bucharest Residence.
In the late afternoon, we will reach Bucharest’s Old Town, with the ruins of the Old Princely Court, known as Dracula’s residence, where the legend says that Vlad the Impaler was keeping his prisoners. We will take a sightseeing tour of this part of the city, filled with lively cafes and street food to see why the nickname of Bucharest is “The Little Paris”. The rest of the evening is on your own.
Three day Republic of Moldavia Extension with Tiraspol Tour
Extra Day 1: Bucovina – Iasi City Tour – Soroca
Extra Day 2: Soroca Fortress – Old Orhei with Traditional Lunch – Cricova Wine Cellars – Chisinau City Tour
Next, we travel south, stopping at the outstanding cave monastery of Old Orhei, which is organically combines the natural landscape and vestiges of ancient civilizations. A home-made lunch will be served in the village with the same name.
In the afternoon, you head to Cricova, where you will visit the largest wine cellar in the world and where you will enjoy some of the best Moldavian wines. The winery Cricova was founded in 1952 and it is one of the few wineries which produce sparkling wine using the Champagne Method. Before reaching the hotel, we will visit the capital city of Republic of Moldavia, which is one of the greenest city in Europe. The tour will reveal the Arch of Triumph, the Metropolitan Cathedral of Chisinau with the Belfry Tower and the Parliament of Moldavia. To have a sweet evening we will have a short stop at the famous “Bucuria” shop, which is the greatest enterprise specialized in the production of candies. The rest of the evening is at your leisure.
Extra Day 3: Bender Fortress – Tiraspol Tour – Bucovina
First, we will visit Bender Fortress, which was built in one the most powerful of the medieval cities of Moldavia – Tighina, which was an important trade outpost. Later we will cross Dnister in Transnistria, where you will understand why this is the world’s last Soviet republic in fact.
In Tiraspol we will visit Suvorov Plaza & Monument, Memorial of the WW2 and Afghanistan war, Lenin statue and more.
After the walking tour in Tiraspol we will go back to Bucovina, crossing back Prut River in Romania.
Tour Reviews
4 of us went on a bespoke tour of Transylvania organised by Holiday to Romania and Vlad Cernaianu. We had an excellent, well informed, guide who drove us around in a spacious comfortable people carrier. Our trip was a mix of what we knew we wanted to do and what Vlad wisely recommended which proved the perfect mix. We found Romania to be the most lovely country with extensive forests and wildlife areas and charming cities – especially Sibiu and Sighisoara – and were seriously impressed by the renovation of older buildings and associated attention to detail. The cities were clean and well maintained with plenty of outdoor entertainment as well as some ‘folk’ events. The local wine was excellent and the food fine but nothing special. We thoroughly recommend Transylvania and Holiday to Romania as company to organise this for you. Vlad replied very promptly to our enquiries and communicated well to ensure we had the holiday we had hoped for.
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