- Accommodation
- Attractions
- Exclusive Tour
- Holiday in Maramures
- Holiday to Romania
- Meals included
- Mountains
- Private Guided Tour
- Private Tour
- Short Tour
- Tours in Maramures
- Tours in Romania
- Traditional Food
- Traditional Villages
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Walking
- Wildlife
- Wooden Churches
AN AWESOME AND RELAXING 3-DAYS TOUR IN THE TRADITIONAL MARAMURES
Embark on the “Maramures Marvel,” a captivating 3-day journey that unveils the rich tapestry of culture, history, and tradition in Northern Romania.
Starting and concluding in Cluj-Napoca, this tour offers an authentic dive into the heart of Maramures, an area renowned for its picturesque wooden churches and deep-rooted customs. Discover the vibrant and poignant Sapanta Merry Cemetery, experience the solemnity of the Memorial of the Victims of Communism, and marvel at the architectural beauty of UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Barsana and Surdesti Wooden Churches. Ride the historic Mocanita steam train through breathtaking landscapes, indulge in traditional culinary delights, and enjoy a unique cultural exchange with home-hosted meals.
This tour not only highlights the enduring heritage of Maramures but also connects you deeply with the local way of life, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a meaningful travel experience in Romania.
The tour can be personalised according to your time and points of interest.
Itinerary: Cluj-Napoca Arrival – Sapanta Merry Cemetery – Memorial of the Victims of Communism and of the Resistance – Barsana Wooden Church – Woman Museum – Home Hosted Dinner in Maramures – Steam Train Trip – Exclusive Walking Tour – Dinner with Folklore Show – Surdesti & Budesti Wooden Churches – Organic Smoked Bacon Tasting with Home-made Lunch – Cluj-Napoca Walking Tour – Cluj-Napoca Departure
| DEPARTURE/RETURN | The tour starts and ends at Cluj “Avram Iancu” International Airport. Alternate departure and return points can be accommodated to suit your travel plans, ensuring maximum convenience for your trip. |
| TRANSPORTATION | Travel in comfort with a fully insured car or minivan equipped with climate control, ensuring a pleasant journey regardless of the weather. All vehicles are modern and well-maintained, providing a safe and comfortable travel experience. |
| TOURIST GUIDE | Enjoy the expertise of a certified English-speaking tourist guide throughout your journey. Guides are highly knowledgeable about Romanian culture and history and are selected for their professionalism and insight. Guides speaking other languages can be arranged upon request. |
| 3 UNESCO World Heritage Sites | Barsana Wooden Church (Maramures Wooden Churches) – Known for its elegant tall spires and intricate floral and geometric motifs, Barsana Church stands as a testament to the refined craftsmanship and deep spiritual traditions of Maramures. The site is not only a place of worship but also a cultural hub, showcasing the rich woodworking heritage that has been passed down through generations. Surdesti Wooden Church (Maramures Wooden Churches) – As one of the tallest wooden churches in the world, Surdesti impresses with its slender tower and remarkable structure, all constructed without the use of nails. This architectural marvel is surrounded by a tranquil cemetery and lush greenery, offering a peaceful retreat into the past. Budesti Wooden Church (Maramures Wooden Churches) – This church is famous for its historical significance and Gothic-style elements. It houses valuable icons and religious artifacts, including a suit of armor worn by a local hero during the 18th century. Budesti’s frescoes and iconostasis narrate tales of devotion and resilience, echoing the community’s enduring faith. |
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND UNIQUE CULTURAL CONNECTIONS
- Exclusive Access to UNESCO Sites: Explore three of Maramures’ UNESCO-listed wooden churches—Barsana, Surdesti, and Budesti. Each offers a unique glimpse into the region’s deep-rooted ecclesiastical architecture and woodworking traditions that have been preserved for centuries.
- Historical Insights at the Memorial of the Victims of Communism: Engage with Romania’s poignant history at this powerful memorial, which serves as a somber reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
- Sapanta Merry Cemetery: Experience a unique cultural perspective on life and death at this famous cemetery, known for its colorful tombstones with humorous and heartfelt epitaphs that celebrate the lives of the deceased.
- Mocanita Steam Train Ride: Take a nostalgic ride on the historic Mocanita steam train through the picturesque landscapes of the Carpathian Mountains, offering stunning views and a rare step back in time.
- Traditional Culinary Experiences: Delight in the flavors of Maramures with two home-hosted dinners, featuring local dishes prepared with love. Plus, enjoy an exclusive tasting of organic smoked bacon, a regional delicacy, complemented by a home-made lunch.
- Live Romanian Folklore Show: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Maramures with a special evening that includes a live Romanian folklore show, showcasing traditional dances and music.
- Authentic Accommodations: Spend two nights in full-of-character local homes, providing a true taste of life in Maramures. This immersive experience allows for genuine cultural exchange and a deeper understanding of local customs.
- Insightful Local Interactions: Meet and interact with the people of Maramures in their traditional markets and homes. These interactions provide a deeper appreciation of the daily life, self-sufficiency, and sustainability practices in the remote villages.
- Tailored Tour Experience: Enjoy the flexibility to customize your tour to better fit your interests and preferences, ensuring a personalized and fulfilling travel experience.
| DEPARTURE/RETURN | The tour starts and ends at Cluj “Avram Iancu” International Airport. Alternate departure and return points can be accommodated to suit your travel plans, ensuring maximum convenience for your trip. | ||||||||||
| TRANSPORTATION | Travel in comfort with a fully insured car or minivan equipped with climate control, ensuring a pleasant journey regardless of the weather. All vehicles are modern and well-maintained, providing a safe and comfortable travel experience. | ||||||||||
| TOURIST GUIDE | Enjoy the expertise of a certified English-speaking tourist guide throughout your journey. Guides are highly knowledgeable about Romanian culture and history and are selected for their professionalism and insight. Guides speaking other languages can be arranged upon request. | ||||||||||
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Day 1: Cluj-Napoca Arrival – Sapanta Merry Cemetery – Memorial of the Victims of Communism and of the Resistance – Barsana Wooden Church – Woman Museum – Home Hosted Dinner in Maramures
Your first destination is the vibrant and unique Sapanta Merry Cemetery. Unlike any other burial ground, the Merry Cemetery is famous for its colorful tombstones adorned with naive art depicting scenes from the lives of the deceased, accompanied by witty or poetic epitaphs that celebrate each person’s story. This cheerful approach to life and death encapsulates the local belief in the continuity of life and the acceptance of mortality, offering a profound yet lighthearted reflection on human existence.
Next, travel deeper into the heart of Maramures to the Memorial of the Victims of Communism and of the Resistance. Located in a former political prison, this memorial serves as a stark reminder of the region’s turbulent past under Communist rule. The exhibitions here are both moving and enlightening, providing valuable insights into the struggles faced by the Romanian people during this oppressive era.
The afternoon brings a softer tone with a visit to the Barsana Wooden Church, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Barsana Monastery complex is a stunning example of Maramures’ famed wooden church architecture, known for its tall, slender structures built entirely from local timber. Explore the beautifully carved gates, intricate wooden shingles, and peaceful gardens that make this site a spiritual and artistic sanctuary.
Afterward, continue to Dragomiresti to visit the Museum of Maramures Villages. Housed in a 300-year-old wooden house, this museum displays an array of traditional Maramures clothing, tools, and household items, offering a window into the daily lives and customs of the local people through the ages.
Conclude your day with a home-hosted dinner in a local village, where you’ll enjoy traditional Maramures cuisine prepared by your hosts. This intimate dining experience not only allows you to taste authentic dishes but also offers the opportunity to engage in meaningful cultural exchange, making your first day in Maramures both enriching and memorable.
Day 2: Steam Train Trip – Exclusive Walking Tour – Dinner with Folklore Show
Your journey on the Mocanita begins at the quaint station, where the old-world charm of the steam-powered train awaits. As the train whistles blow, embark on a leisurely ride through the lush landscapes of the northern Romanian Carpathians. The Mocanita, running on narrow-gauge rails, chugs its way through dense forests, alongside sparkling rivers, and past verdant meadows, offering breathtaking views and countless photo opportunities. Halfway through the ride, stop for a delightful picnic lunch in the heart of nature, where you can relish local specialties amidst the serene beauty of the surrounding mountains.
After the train ride, delve deeper into the cultural fabric of Maramures with a walking tour of a traditional village. This part of the day is designed to offer you an authentic glimpse into rural life and the enduring customs that define this region. Visit a local workshop where you can see artisans at work on glass icon painting, a revered local craft that combines artistic skill with spiritual devotion. Learn about the process, materials, and religious significance behind each piece.
Further explore the village to discover other traditional practices, such as plum brandy distillation. Maramures is renowned for its homemade spirits, and this visit provides an insight into the methods used by local distillers to produce their potent and highly prized brandy.
The day concludes with a special cultural treat—a traditional Maramures folklore show. Experience the vibrant music and dance of the area, performed by local artists in authentic costumes. The show is not only a display of regional artistic talent but also a lively celebration of the community’s cultural heritage.
Return to your accommodation for another home-hosted dinner, where you can unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures with your hosts. The warmth and hospitality of the Maramures people, coupled with the day’s rich experiences, make this an unforgettable part of your Romanian journey.
Day 3: Surdesti & Budesti Wooden Churches – Organic Smoked Bacon Tasting with Home-made Lunch – Cluj-Napoca Walking Tour – Cluj-Napoca Departure
Start at the Surdesti Wooden Church, celebrated for its towering structure that stands as one of Europe’s tallest wooden buildings. This architectural marvel is not only a testament to the craftsmanship and ingenuity of the local carpenters but also a significant symbol of the region’s deep-rooted Orthodox faith. The church’s intricate carvings and traditional design exemplify the unique style of wooden church architecture that Maramures is famous for.
Next, you will visit the Budesti Wooden Church, known for its distinctive Gothic-style tower and rich historical artifacts, including the armor of a local hero who fought against the Ottomans. This church offers a fascinating glimpse into the turbulent history and resilient spirit of the Maramures villagers.
After immersing yourself in the spiritual heritage of the area, it’s time to indulge in a culinary experience that is quintessentially Maramures. Travel to a nearby village where you’ll partake in an organic smoked bacon tasting. Here, you’ll learn about the traditional methods of smoking bacon, a process that imparts unique flavors cherished by locals. Enjoy a home-made lunch featuring this smoked delicacy, paired with other regional specialties and home-baked bread, providing a taste of the local lifestyle and culinary traditions.
To round off your tour, return to Cluj-Napoca for a guided walking tour of this vibrant city. Cluj-Napoca, the unofficial capital of Transylvania, is a blend of medieval charm and contemporary energy. Walk through its bustling streets and visit key landmarks such as the St. Michael’s Church, one of the finest examples of Gothic architecture in Romania, the Mirror Street (Strada Iuliu Maniu) where you can see the architectural twin effect, and the lively squares bustling with cafés and history.
The walking tour not only gives you insights into the urban culture of Transylvania but also contrasts beautifully with the rural tranquility you’ve experienced in Maramures. Say goodbye to your guide at the airport as you depart with memories of a lifetime, a deeper understanding of Romanian culture, and a heart full of Maramures’ hospitality.
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.
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Tour Extensions
Tour Reviews
It was a private tour with our guide, Dan and the tour experience in Maramures was great! Dan is knowledgeable & he certainly knows his way around. He is very accommodating, drives safely & has a sense of humour. An enjoyable trip with a great guide!
The tour explored different villages in the Maramures region. What you are able to see there depends on the season; (when I went there was not much farming activity) but we were able to visit the Merry Cemetery, a number of wooden churches, craftspeople, a local festival, a wedding party, scenic areas and local households. We happened to visit on a Sunday so were lucky to see some religious services and meet people dressed in their beautiful traditional clothes.
Dan was also invaluable at introducing us to some talented craftspeople in the area. With his accompaniment, we received a warm welcome everywhere we went. People were so inviting, generously showing us around their homes, sharing food and drink and even letting us try on their handmade traditional clothes. These experiences, and the great photographs I was able to take, were made possible by Dan’s rapport with the local people.
We had a remarkable time in Maramures. Dan is an easygoing and charming guide who gave us a deep insight into Romanian culture in just few days. He has big knowledge and is happy to share it with you. We will definately come back to book one of his other tours to get to know romania better. highly recommended!
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