- Accommodation
- Attractions
- Exclusive Tour
- Fortified Churches
- Holiday in Bucovina
- Holiday in Transylvania
- Holiday to Romania
- Meals included
- Medieval Castles
- Medieval Cities
- Medieval Fortresses
- Painted Monasteries
- Private Tour
- Saxon Villages
- Tours in Bucovina
- Tours in Moldavia
- Tours in Romania
- Tours in Transylvania
- Traditional Food
- Traditional Villages
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites
A SIX-DAY TOUR OF BUCOVINA AND TRANSYLVANIA HIGHLIGHTS
Embark on a six-day odyssey through the historic regions of Bucovina and Transylvania, where medieval charm meets stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. This tour will take you from the vibrant capital of Bucharest to the serene monasteries of Bucovina and the medieval fortresses of Transylvania.
Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the vividly painted monasteries of Bucovina and the fortified Saxon churches of Transylvania. Engage in unique experiences such as traditional egg-painting and black pottery workshops, and meet local communities for an authentic glimpse into Romanian culture. Admire the natural beauty of the Bicaz Gorges and the mysterious Red Lake, and get up close with the region’s wildlife at a bear sanctuary.
Culminate your journey with visits to the iconic Peles and Bran castles, delving into the legends of Dracula and the history of Romanian royalty. With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and immersive cultural encounters, this tour offers a comprehensive and unforgettable exploration of Romania’s most cherished regions.
The tour can be personalised according to your time and points of interest.
Itinerary: Bucharest Arrival – Lunch & Wine Tasting – Folk Traditions Museum of Bucovina – Voronet Painted Monastery – Moldovita Painted Monastery – Traditional Lunch – Egg-painting Museum – Sucevita Painted Monastery – Black Pottery Workshop – Humor Pained Monastery – Neamt Citadel – Bicaz Gorges & Red Lake – Exclusive Gypsy Home Visit – Sighisoara Walking Tour – Saxon Village of Saschiz & Viscri with Fortified Churches – Exclusive Viscri Village Tour & Traditional Lunch – Wildness Bear Observatory – Bear Sanctuary – Bran Castle – Brasov Walking Tour – Peles Castle – Bucharest Departure
| DEPARTURE/RETURN | The tour begins and ends in Bucharest, with options for customization based on your preferred starting and ending points to accommodate your travel plans effectively. |
| TRANSPORTATION | Enjoy the comfort and convenience of travel in a fully insured car or minivan equipped with climate control, ensuring a relaxing journey through the diverse landscapes of Romania. |
| TOURIST GUIDE | A certified English-speaking tourist guide will accompany you throughout the tour, providing detailed commentary and insights into Romanian culture, history, and legends. Guides speaking other languages can be arranged upon request. |
| 9 UNESCO World Heritage Sites | Voronet Painted Monastery (Bucovina Exterior Painted Monasteries) – Known as the “Sistine Chapel of the East,” Voronet Monastery is celebrated for its vibrant frescoes, especially the stunning Last Judgment, painted in a distinctive blue hue known as ‘Voronet Blue.’ This monastery exemplifies the Moldavian architectural style that emerged in the 15th and 16th centuries. Moldovita Painted Monastery (Bucovina Exterior Painted Monasteries) – Moldovita features luminous frescoes adorned with golden and deep blue colors against green backgrounds, illustrating biblical narratives that cover the exterior walls, a testament to the Byzantine influence on Romanian culture. Sucevita Painted Monastery (Bucovina Exterior Painted Monasteries) – The largest of the painted monasteries in Bucovina, Sucevita is surrounded by high walls and heavy fortifications, giving it a fortress-like appearance. Its frescoes are exceptionally detailed and well-preserved, depicting the Ladder of St. John and the Tree of Jesse. Humor Painted Monastery (Bucovina Exterior Painted Monasteries) – Unlike other painted monasteries with belfries, Humor stands out with its frescoes painted in reddish-brown tones. It features scenes from the Siege of Constantinople and the life of the prophets, adding a unique narrative element to its artistic décor. Historic Centre of Sighisoara – Experience the well-preserved wonders of Sighisoara, one of the few still inhabited medieval citadels in Europe and the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler. Its cobbled streets, towering clock tower, and rich history make it a focal point of Romanian heritage. Biertan Fortified Church (Villages with Fortified Church in Transylvania) – The fortified church of Biertan, with its imposing walls and defensive towers, served as the seat of the Lutheran bishops for over 300 years, playing a crucial role in the cultural and religious life of the Transylvanian Saxons. Saschiz Fortified Church (Villages with Fortified Church in Transylvania) – Similar in architectural style to the church in Sighisoara, Saschiz exemplifies the specific fortification techniques used by the Saxons of Transylvania, designed to protect their communities during turbulent times. Viscri Fortified Church (Villages with Fortified Church in Transylvania) – The village of Viscri, known for its fortified church originally built by the Szeklers and expanded by the Saxons, represents the typical rural landscape of southern Transylvania and illustrates the cultural and architectural heritage of the region’s small farming communities. |
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND UNIQUE CULTURAL CONNECTIONS
- Explore 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Visit the famous Bucovina Painted Monasteries and Saxon Fortified Churches of Transylvania, each a repository of history and art.
- Engage with Local Gypsy Community: Gain unique insights into the vibrant culture and traditions of the Gypsy community through an exclusive home visit.
- Black Pottery Demonstration: Experience the unique and ancient craft of black pottery, a distinctive art form in Romania.
- Wine Tasting Experience: Savor the flavors of Romanian vineyards with a lunch and wine tasting session amidst the beautiful vineyards of Vrancea.
- Natural Wonders: Marvel at the stunning landscapes of the Bicaz Gorges and the mystical Red Lake.
- Historic Town Tours: Walk through the medieval streets of Sighisoara, Brasov, and Sibiu, immersing yourself in their rich histories.
- Bear Sanctuary Visit: Meet rescued bears at a sanctuary and learn about conservation efforts in Romania.
- Horse Carriage Ride in Viscri: Traverse the village of Viscri in a traditional horse-drawn carriage, adding a touch of romance to your adventure.
- Culinary Delights: Enjoy traditional lunches in Bucovina and Transylvania, tasting local specialties that offer a true flavor of the regions.
| DEPARTURE/RETURN | The tour begins and ends in Bucharest, with options for customization based on your preferred starting and ending points to accommodate your travel plans effectively. | ||||||||||||||||||
| TRANSPORTATION | Enjoy the comfort and convenience of travel in a fully insured car or minivan equipped with climate control, ensuring a relaxing journey through the diverse landscapes of Romania. | ||||||||||||||||||
| TOURIST GUIDE | A certified English-speaking tourist guide will accompany you throughout the tour, providing detailed commentary and insights into Romanian culture, history, and legends. Guides speaking other languages can be arranged upon request. | ||||||||||||||||||
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Day 1: Bucharest Arrival – Lunch & Wine Tasting – Bucovina
The journey includes a delightful stop in the famed winemaking region of Vrancea. Here, nestled among lush vineyards, you’ll enjoy a specially arranged lunch paired with a wine tasting at a local vineyard. This experience not only allows you to sample some of Romania’s renowned wines but also offers insights into the traditions of winemaking that have been honed here over centuries. It’s a perfect introduction to the local flavors and crafts that form an integral part of the country’s heritage.
After lunch, the drive continues to Gura Humorului, your base for exploring the famed painted monasteries of Bucovina. The rest of the evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. You might choose to explore the surrounding area or simply relax at the hotel, preparing for the upcoming days filled with exploration and discovery.
Day 2: Bucovina Painted Monasteries (UNESCO World Heritage Sites) & Traditional Lunch – Egg-painting Museum – Black Pottery Workshop
The first monastery on your itinerary is Voronet, often hailed as the “Sistine Chapel of the East.” Famous for its vibrant fresco of the Last Judgment painted in a distinctive shade known as “Voronet blue,” the monastery provides a breathtaking view into the medieval mind and the spiritual fervor that inspired these artworks.
Next, enhance your understanding of local crafts with a visit to a nearby egg-painting museum. Here, you’ll see exquisite examples of intricately painted eggs, a traditional art form that symbolizes the resurrection and eternal life.
Continue your monastery tour with a visit to Moldovita, where the frescoes feature an intense shade of yellow, illustrating biblical scenes that cover the walls both inside and out. Here, the merging of Gothic architecture with Byzantine artwork creates a stunning visual narrative.
Midday brings a pause for a traditional lunch in a nearby village, offering a taste of local Bucovina cuisine that complements the cultural immersion of the morning.
After lunch, your journey takes you to Sucevita, the largest of the painted monasteries, which resembles a fortress with its massive walls and defensive towers. Its frescoes, well-preserved and vibrant, depict scenes from the Ladder of Divine Ascent, representing the soul’s journey towards heaven.
Your day concludes with a visit to a black pottery workshop. This unique craft, specific to the Marginea village, involves an ancient technique where the pottery turns black through a specific firing process. Observe the skilled potters at work and learn about the history and significance of this unique art form.
Finally, visit the Humor Monastery, distinguished by its lack of a belfry tower and its frescoes that feature a dominant red. Like the other monasteries you’ve visited today, Humor offers a peaceful and spiritual end to a day full of cultural enrichment and artistic beauty.
Return to your hotel in Gura Humorului for the evening, enriched by the profound cultural connections and artistic insights gained through the day’s explorations. This day of discovering Bucovina’s most cherished spiritual and cultural treasures offers a deep dive into the region’s rich heritage, leaving lasting impressions of beauty and tradition.
Day 3: Neamt Citadel – Bicaz Gorges & Red Lake – Exclusive Gypsy Home Visit – Sighisoara
From here, travel to the stunning Bicaz Gorges. This dramatic natural pass through the mountains is one of the most breathtaking sights in Romania. The narrow roads, bordered by steep, towering limestone cliffs, wind their way through the gorges, providing a thrilling drive. Stop at the Red Lake, a natural dam lake formed by a landslide in the 19th century, known for its reddish hue and the eerie appearance of dead tree trunks protruding from the water. This spot is perfect for a short hike and some memorable photos of the dramatic landscape.
In the afternoon, engage in a unique cultural experience with a visit to a Gypsy community. This visit provides an opportunity to meet with local Gypsy families, learn about their customs, traditions, and way of life, and dispel some of the myths surrounding this often misunderstood community. The interaction is not only educational but also offers a chance to appreciate the rich cultural diversity of Romania.
Conclude the day’s explorations with a scenic drive to Sighisoara, a gem among Romanian towns and one of the last still-inhabited medieval citadels in Europe. Upon arrival, check into your accommodation within the historic upper town.
For those interested, an optional Transylvanian palinka tasting in a 500-year old cellar in Sighisoara is available.
***Optional: Transylvanian palinka tasting in a 500-year old cellar in Sighisoara
Day 4: Sighisoara Walking Tour – Saxon Village of Saschiz & Viscri with the Fortified Churches – Exclusive Viscri Village Tour & Traditional Lunch – Wildness Bear Observatory
After exploring Sighisoara, travel to the nearby Saxon village of Saschiz. Known for its impressive fortified church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Saschiz echoes the cultural and architectural grandeur of its more famous neighbor, Sighisoara. You’ll appreciate the striking, defensive architecture of the church, designed to protect its inhabitants during turbulent times.
Next, your adventure continues to Viscri, a village that has gained international fame due to its traditional rural architecture and the efforts to preserve it. Here, you’ll embark on a unique village tour in a horse-drawn cart, allowing you to experience the village’s charming landscape at a leisurely pace. This ride offers a picturesque view of the fortified church and rustic homes that line the dirt roads.
While in Viscri, visit a local blacksmith’s workshop where you’ll witness the traditional craft of blacksmithing. This hands-on demonstration provides insight into the age-old techniques that are still preserved and cherished in the village. Following the visit, enjoy a traditional lunch hosted by local villagers. This meal offers an authentic taste of Transylvanian cuisine, prepared using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.
In the afternoon, head to the Wildness Bear Observatory for an exciting wildlife watching experience. Nestled in the Carpathian Mountains, this observatory offers a safe and ethical way to observe brown bears in their natural habitat. The platform provides an excellent vantage point for viewing these majestic creatures without disturbing them, with a high chance of sightings that make for an unforgettable experience.
In the late evening, we will arrive in Brasov, where you will have free time to enjoy the pedestrian area of the Old Town with its many restaurants and outdoor cafes.
Day 5: Bear Sanctuary – Bran Castle – Brasov Walking Tour
After connecting with nature, you’ll travel to the iconic Bran Castle, often associated with the legend of Dracula. This 14th-century fortress, perched dramatically on a rock, holds stories of historical figures like Vlad the Impaler and myths that have captivated the world’s imagination. Explore its many rooms and secret passages, and learn about its history as a royal residence and a defensive bastion. The castle also offers a chance to pick up unique souvenirs from the nearby market, where local artisans showcase their crafts.
From Bran, the journey continues to Brasov, one of Transylvania’s most significant historical cities. Embark on a walking tour of this medieval city, starting from the expansive Council Square, brimming with cafes and shops in vibrant historic buildings. Visit the Black Church, the largest Gothic church in Romania, renowned for its impressive collection of Oriental rugs and a towering, soot-blackened façade from a past fire. Stroll down Rope Street, one of the narrowest streets in Europe, and see the old city walls and defense towers that have protected Brasov for centuries.
The evening finds you back in Brasov, where you’ll check into your hotel located in the heart of the old town, an optional dinner in a nearby village can be arranged.
***An optional dinner in a nearby village can be arranged.
Day 6: Peles Castle – Bucharest
After exploring Peles Castle, your journey will take you back towards Bucharest. The drive offers a moment to reflect on the diverse experiences and historical insights gained over the past days. Once back in Bucharest, you’ll have the option to extend your exploration of Romania’s capital. Consider a guided tour of Bucharest’s highlights, including the grandiose Parliament Palace, the second largest administrative building in the world after the Pentagon, and the historic Revolution Square, where significant events in Romania’s 1989 revolution unfolded.
Alternatively, if your travel schedule doesn’t allow for an extended stay, your guide will ensure a smooth transfer to Henri Coandă International Airport for your departure flight. As you prepare to leave, the memories of medieval citadels, serene monasteries, majestic castles, and vibrant cultural interactions will accompany you, enriching your travel stories and inviting you to return to Romania’s welcoming landscapes.
***Optional: You can choose a Bucharest City Tour (requires one extra day)
NOTE: The tour is further customizable.
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.
Two day Black Sea & Danube Delta Extension with Danube Delta Private Cruise accompanied by certified skipper
Extra Day 1: Bucharest – Constanta Walking Tour – Histria Fortress – Tulcea
Extra Day 2: Danube Delta Private Cruise with Lunch – Bucharest Airport
After the tour we will drive back to Henri Coanda International Airport for your afternoon return flight.
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
Two friends and I took the Amazing Bucovina and Transylvania Tour with Dan. This trip was outstanding. Dan’s knowledge of his country’s history is outstanding. He was such a wonderful guide and a person who is proud of his country and its’ accomplishments. I would highly recommend you take one of his tours if you are visiting Romania. We learned so much information that we never would have on our own or with a large group. He personalized the tour and tailor-made it to fit our needs and interests. We cannot wait to visit again and take another trip with Dan.
A thoroughly enjoyable tour of a fascinating and beautiful region. We particularly enjoyed the painted monasteries, the fortified churches and the happy cemetery. Our guide was an excellent driver, knowledgeable, charming and happy to make small detours as we wished. Accommodation and meals were generally very good. Overall, a trip to be highly recommended.
From the initial contact, through booking a private tour and the itinerary, Holiday to Romania was quick, efficient, friendly and gave good advice.
During the tour Dan was very responsive to our requests and went out of his way to organise some wine tasting and to spend time with a gypsy family. I can highly recommend this company for seeing the best that Romania has to offer.
My husband and I did a 6 day private tour with Holiday Romania which included a train to the most northern area and driving back seeing some of the most spectacular UNESCO Monasteries and fortresses. We go to see how locals lived and learnt so much of the history of the areas from both our separate guides. The vehicles used were quality and safe and the hotels were 4* and in great locations. I cannot praise them enough. Thank you so much for the experience.
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