- Accommodation
- Attractions
- City Break
- Eastern European Adventures
- European Tours
- Exclusive Tour
- Extensions
- Heritage and History Tours
- Holiday in Bucovina
- Holiday in Transylvania
- Holiday to Romania
- Private Guided Tour
- Private Tour
- Romania & Moldova Tours
- Scenic Landscapes
- Tours in Bucovina
- Tours in Budapest
- Tours in Hungary
- Tours in Moldavia
- Tours in Republic of Moldavia
- Tours in Romania
- Tours in Transylvania
- Traditional Food
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Walking
- Wildlife
CROSSING TIME AND BORDERS: A COMPREHENSIVE JOURNEY THROUGH ROMANIA AND MOLDOVA
Embark on an 11-day private tour, “Historical Romania & Moldova Journey,” that immerses you in the rich cultural heritage and captivating history of Romania and Moldova. Starting in the vibrant capital of Bucharest, explore architectural marvels like the Palace of Parliament and delve into Romania’s communist past. Journey north to Bucovina to witness the stunning UNESCO-listed Painted Monasteries and participate in traditional crafts such as egg painting and black pottery workshops.
Cross the border into Moldova, where serene monasteries and the charming Old Orhei open-air museum reveal their stories. In Tiraspol, experience the preserved Soviet atmosphere and visit the historic Bender Fortress. Enjoy exclusive wine tastings at renowned Moldovan vineyards, including the famous Milestii Mici Wine Cellar.
Explore the dramatic landscapes of Bicaz Gorges and the enchanting medieval citadel of Sighisoara. Interact with local communities, including a unique visit to a Gypsy family, and savor authentic culinary experiences. This tour offers a profound connection to the monumental histories, vibrant cultures, and warm hospitality of Romania and Moldova, making it an unforgettable journey through Eastern Europe’s hidden gems.
The tour can be personalised according to your time and points of interest.
Itinerary: Bucharest Arrival – Bucharest City Tour with Parliamenet Palace – 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 – Mircesti Winery with Wine Tasting and Lunch – Parents House Museum with Jam Tasting – Old Orhei Open Air Museum – Tiraspol City Tour – Bender Fortress – New Neamt Monastery – Chisinau City Tour – Milestii Mici Wine Cellar with Wine Tasting and Lunch – Capriana 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 | This tour offers flexible departure and return options to accommodate your travel needs. Typically starting and ending in Bucharest, you can customize the starting and ending points according to your schedule. Whether you prefer to begin directly in Bucharest or another specified location, we ensure smooth transitions and convenient scheduling to enhance your travel experience. |
TRANSPORTATION | Throughout your 11-day journey across Romania and Moldova, travel in comfort and style in a fully insured car or minivan equipped with modern amenities, including air conditioning and ample space. These vehicles are chosen to provide a smooth and relaxing ride through varying landscapes, from bustling city streets to serene countryside, ensuring every part of your journey is comfortable and enjoyable. |
TOURIST GUIDE | Each segment of this enriching tour is led by a certified English-speaking tourist guide, ensuring a deep understanding of both Romanian and Moldovan culture, history, and traditions. For the Romanian part of the journey, a specialist in Romania’s heritage will accompany you, while in Moldova, a local expert will take over, providing insights into Moldova’s unique historical and cultural landscape. Guides fluent in other languages are available upon request to cater to diverse linguistic needs. |
8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites | Voronet Monastery (Bucovina Exterior Painted Monasteries) – Often called the “Sistine Chapel of the East,” famed for its stunning exterior frescoes in unique Voronet blue. Moldovita Monastery (Bucovina Exterior Painted Monasteries) – Admired for its well-preserved frescoes depicting biblical and historical scenes on its fortress-like walls. Sucevita Monastery (Bucovina Exterior Painted Monasteries) – Blends military architecture with intricate frescoes, embodying the resilience and artistry of Moldavian culture. Humor Monastery (Bucovina Exterior Painted Monasteries) – Noted for its distinct reddish-brown frescoes, which cover both its interior walls and exterior facades. Historic Center of Sighisoara – A perfectly intact medieval citadel where history interweaves with the vibrant life of the town. Biertan Fortified Church (Villages with Fortified Church in Transylvania) – One of the largest and most fortified churches in Transylvania, a symbol of Saxon ingenuity and endurance. Saschiz Fortified Church (Villages with Fortified Church in Transylvania) – Not just a church but a bulwark against invaders, complete with a striking clock tower. Viscri Fortified Church (Villages with Fortified Church in Transylvania) – Famous for its strong defensive structures and its role in preserving the village’s community. |
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND UNIQUE CULTURAL CONNECTIONS
- Diverse Cultural Insights: Travelers will experience a rich tapestry of cultural histories across two countries, delving into the deep-rooted traditions and contemporary life of Romania and Moldova.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: The tour features visits to several UNESCO sites such as the Painted Monasteries of Bucovina, providing an immersive experience into the spiritual and artistic heritage of these regions.
- Historic Architecture: From the medieval fortress of Bender to the architectural gems in the cities of Iasi and Chisinau, each site offers a glimpse into the past civilizations and their enduring legacies.
- Wine Tasting in Moldova: Experience the renowned Moldovan vineyards, including a special visits to the family-owned Mircesti Winery and Milestii Mici Wine Cellar, famous for having one of the largest wine collections in the world.
- Traditional Gastronomy: Savor authentic culinary experiences across both countries, including traditional lunches in historical settings and a special dinner featuring Moldovan wines.
- Artisan Workshops: Participate in hands-on experiences at an egg-painting museum and a blacksmith workshop, learning about traditional crafts that have been preserved over centuries.
- Ethnographic Museums: Visit the Old Orhei Open-Air Museum and other ethnographic complexes to understand the rural lifestyles and historical economies of the regions.
- Interactive Experiences with Local Communities: Engage directly with local communities, including a unique visit to a Gypsy family, providing insights into their culture and traditions.
- Natural Landscapes: Traverse the scenic Bicaz Gorges and explore the Red Lake, experiencing firsthand the natural beauty that envelops the historical sites of Romania.
- Cross-Border Dynamics: Understand the historical and cultural ties between Romania and Moldova, with insights into their shared past and the impacts of their divergent paths during the Soviet era.
DEPARTURE/RETURN | This tour offers flexible departure and return options to accommodate your travel needs. Typically starting and ending in Bucharest, you can customize the starting and ending points according to your schedule. Whether you prefer to begin directly in Bucharest or another specified location, we ensure smooth transitions and convenient scheduling to enhance your travel experience. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
TRANSPORTATION | Throughout your 11-day journey across Romania and Moldova, travel in comfort and style in a fully insured car or minivan equipped with modern amenities, including air conditioning and ample space. These vehicles are chosen to provide a smooth and relaxing ride through varying landscapes, from bustling city streets to serene countryside, ensuring every part of your journey is comfortable and enjoyable. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
TOURIST GUIDE | Each segment of this enriching tour is led by a certified English-speaking tourist guide, ensuring a deep understanding of both Romanian and Moldovan culture, history, and traditions. For the Romanian part of the journey, a specialist in Romania’s heritage will accompany you, while in Moldova, a local expert will take over, providing insights into Moldova’s unique historical and cultural landscape. Guides fluent in other languages are available upon request to cater to diverse linguistic needs. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Day 1: Bucharest Arrival
After checking in, the dynamic city of Bucharest invites you to start your journey into its rich history and vibrant cultural scene. Known for its eclectic architecture that spans several eras—from medieval, neoclassical, to the imposing communist period—Bucharest offers a fascinating array of sights and activities.
Day 2: Bucharest City Tour with Parliament Palace and Ceausescu Residence & 80s communist apartment – Bucharest Old Town
The historical journey continues with a visit to a meticulously recreated 1980s communist apartment. Here, you’re transported back in time to experience the everyday life of that era, complete with authentic furnishings, appliances, and decorations that tell the story of a pivotal period in Romanian history.
Conclude your exploration in the charming Old Town of Bucharest. This area serves as a lively hub where history meets urban vibrancy. Stroll through its cobbled lanes, past buildings that whisper tales of the city’s past, and perhaps pause at a café to absorb the atmosphere. The day ends with a return to your hotel, giving you the evening to relax or further explore the enticing culinary and cultural offerings of Bucharest.
Day 3: Lunch & Wine Tasting – Bucovina
Continuing the drive through the scenic countryside, you will arrive in Gura Humorului, your gateway to the famed painted monasteries of Bucovina. This serene town, nestled amidst the natural beauty of the Carpathian mountains, provides a perfect base for exploring the surrounding cultural treasures.
The evening offers a chance to relax in your hotel or take a gentle stroll around Gura Humorului, acquainting yourself with the tranquil pace of life and picturesque settings of this charming region. Prepare for the upcoming days filled with exploration and discovery of Bucovina’s unique heritage.
Day 4: Bucovina Painted Monasteries (UNESCO World Heritage Sites) & Traditional Lunch – Egg-painting Museum – Black Pottery Workshop – Iasi
First on the monastery tour is Voronet, dubbed the “Sistine Chapel of the East.” This jewel of Bucovina is celebrated for its striking Last Judgment fresco, rendered in an intense shade of blue that has made it famous worldwide. Absorb the serene atmosphere and the vivid storytelling painted on its ancient walls.
Next, journey to the Moldovita Monastery, where luminous frescoes in bold hues cover its walls, both inside and out, depicting biblical narratives that captivate and educate. Continue to Sucevita, the largest of these spiritual sanctuaries, which combines fortress-like walls with delicate frescoes of deep theological significance.
Midday offers a pause for a traditional Bucovina lunch in a local village, providing a flavorful insight into the region’s culinary traditions.
The cultural immersion extends to an egg-painting workshop where the intricate art of decorating eggs is demonstrated, a cherished Easter tradition. Witness the precise techniques that transform simple eggs into intricate masterpieces.
Conclude your day with a visit to a black pottery workshop in Marginea. Renowned for its unique black ceramics, this workshop showcases the skilled craftsmanship involved in creating pottery using ancient firing techniques that produce a distinctive charcoal hue.
The day wraps up with a scenic drive to Iasi, where the evening is spent relaxing and reflecting on the rich tapestry of culture and history experienced throughout the day.
Day 5: Mircesti Winery with Wine Tasting and Lunch – Parents House Museum with Jam tasting – Frumoasa Monastery – Old Orhei Open-Air Museum
Next, journey to the village of Palanca to visit the Parents House Museum. This ethnographic center showcases the vibrant traditional costumes and customs of Moldovan culture. The highlight of your visit will be a tasting of homemade jams and sweets, providing a delicious glimpse into local culinary traditions.
Afterward, make a short stop at the serene Frumoasa Monastery, nestled amidst the tranquil Moldovan countryside. This monastery offers a peaceful retreat and an opportunity to appreciate the spiritual heritage that pervades the region.
Your exploration culminates at the Old Orhei Open-Air Museum, one of Moldova’s most remarkable historical sites. Set in a dramatic landscape of rugged cliffs and verdant valleys, Old Orhei is home to an Orthodox cave monastery known as “St. Maria Dormata.” Carved into the limestone cliffs by monks centuries ago, this site continues to be a place of worship and pilgrimage. Walking through this ancient complex offers a profound connection to the past and a stunning perspective on the natural beauty and historical depth of Moldova.
End your day with a stay at a local guesthouse in the Old Orhei area, providing a peaceful setting to reflect on the rich cultural and historical insights gained throughout the day. This immersive experience not only brings you closer to Moldova’s heritage but also allows for a moment of tranquility amidst the country’s picturesque landscapes.
Day 6: Tiraspol City Tour – Bender Fortress – New Neamt Monastery – Gagauz Traditional Dinner
Begin your exploration with a guided city tour of Tiraspol. Discover iconic landmarks such as the House of Soviets, Lenin’s Statue, and the Tank Monument, each telling stories of a time when Soviet influence was at its peak. Your guide will provide insights into the complex history of the region, the current political climate, and the day-to-day life of its residents.
Next, travel to the historic Bender Fortress, an impressive structure originally built by the Ottomans in the 16th century. This fortress has witnessed numerous battles and has served as a key strategic point for many empires. As you wander through its vast grounds and robust defenses, you’ll gain insights into the historical significance of this site and its role in regional conflicts.
After exploring the fortress, head to the serene New Neamt Monastery, an active Orthodox monastery situated picturesquely on the banks of the Dniester River. This spiritual haven, with its beautiful churches and tranquil atmosphere, offers a peaceful retreat and a glimpse into the monastic life that continues to thrive in Moldova.
In the evening, travel to Chisinau, the capital of Moldova, where a special culinary experience awaits you. Enjoy a traditional dinner in a Gagauz restaurant, where you will savor the unique flavors and dishes of the Gagauz people, an ethnic minority in Moldova known for their rich cultural heritage and distinct cuisine. This dinner provides a perfect conclusion to a day filled with historical exploration and cultural immersion.
Day 7: Chisinau City Tour – Milestii Mici Wine Cellars with Wine Tasting and Lunch – Capriana Monastery – Iasi
Next, explore the government and parliamentary buildings, which highlight Moldova’s administrative and political significance. As you stroll through Stefan cel Mare Boulevard, you’ll see monuments and parks that commemorate Moldova’s historical figures and events.
Following the city tour, travel to the renowned Milestii Mici Wine Cellars, home to the largest wine collection in the world according to the Guinness Book of Records. This ‘underground wine city’ stretches over 120 kilometers of subterranean tunnels filled with barrels of aging wine. Enjoy a guided tour through the cellars, learning about the wine-making process and the history of Moldovan viticulture. Conclude your visit with a wine tasting session, where you’ll sample some of the finest local wines, paired with a traditional Moldovan lunch. This experience offers a delightful combination of history, culture, and gastronomy.
In the afternoon, visit the serene Capriana Monastery, one of Moldova’s oldest and most significant religious sites. Nestled in a tranquil forest setting, the monastery exudes peace and spirituality, making it a perfect spot for reflection and exploration. Admire the beautiful architecture and learn about the monastery’s historical and cultural importance from your guide.
After visiting Capriana Monastery, cross the border back into Romania and head to Iasi. Upon arrival at your hotel in Iasi in the evening, you will bid farewell to your Moldavian guide. Reflect on the rich experiences of the past few days as you settle into your accommodation and enjoy the evening at leisure.
Day 8: Neamt Citadel – Bicaz Gorges & Red Lake – Exclusive Gypsy Home Visit – Sighisoara
From the heights of Neamt, descend into the Bicaz Gorges. This spectacular natural canyon, known for its narrow passes and towering limestone walls, is one of Romania’s most breathtaking sights. Drive through the serpentine road that cuts through massive rock formations and stop by the Red Lake, a natural dam lake formed by a landslide. Here, the mysterious appearance of tree stumps emerging from the water adds an eerie beauty to the landscape, creating perfect opportunities for dramatic photographs and serene walks.
In the afternoon, enrich your cultural experience with an exclusive visit to a local Gypsy community. This intimate encounter allows you to engage directly with Gypsy families, gaining insight into their traditions, crafts, and daily life. This visit not only offers a deeper understanding of a misunderstood community but also highlights the diversity within Romanian culture.
Conclude your day with a drive to Sighisoara, one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. Check into your accommodation in the Upper Town, where you are free to relax and enjoy the evening at your leisure. The atmospheric cobblestone streets and architectural treasures of Sighisoara provide a perfect backdrop to reflect on the day’s adventures.
***Optional: Transylvanian palinka tasting in a 500-year old cellar in Sighisoara
Day 9: Sighisoara Walking Tour – Saxon Village of Saschiz & Viscri with the Fortified Churches – Exclusive Viscri Village Tour & Traditional Lunch – Wildness Bear Observatory
After exploring Sighisoara, your journey continues to the nearby Saxon village of Saschiz. Famous for its fortified church, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Saschiz offers insights into the defensive strategies of Transylvanian Saxons during medieval times. Enjoy a tasting of traditional jams, made just as they have been for centuries, providing a sweet connection to local agricultural practices.
Next, proceed to Viscri, a village that has earned international recognition for its conservation efforts and traditional rural lifestyle. Here, you’ll enjoy a tour in a horse-drawn cart, allowing you to slowly take in the rustic beauty of the village, including its renowned fortified church. Visit a local blacksmith to witness the enduring craft of ironwork, essential to rural life for centuries.
Conclude your cultural exploration with a traditional homemade lunch in Viscri, prepared by local hosts. This meal not only offers delicious local dishes but also provides an intimate perspective on the daily life and culinary traditions of the village.
Your day ends as you travel to a wilderness bear observatory, where you have the opportunity to observe brown bears in their natural habitat. This experience not only connects you with the wildlife of Transylvania but also highlights the importance of conservation efforts in the region.
After a day filled with cultural immersion and natural beauty, return to Brasov in the late evening, where you can enjoy the ambiance of its historical center and relax after a fulfilling journey.
Day 10: Bear Sanctuary – Bran Castle – Brasov Walking Tour
After the sanctuary visit, head to Bran Castle, often associated with the Dracula legend but steeped in its own authentic history. This iconic fortress stands on the border between Transylvania and Wallachia and offers panoramic views along with a rich past as a defensive stronghold and royal residence. Explore its corridors and discover the myths and truths of its association with Vlad the Impaler.
Following the exploration of Bran Castle, make your way to Brasov. This city is one of Transylvania’s most significant urban centers, known for its medieval Saxon walls, the bustling Council Square, and the Black Church, a striking example of Gothic architecture. Enjoy a walking tour of the Old Town, where you can soak in the historical ambiance and perhaps climb the old city walls for a stunning view of the town and the surrounding Carpathians.
As evening approaches, you can explore more of Brasov’s charming streets, dine in one of its many excellent restaurants, or simply relax in the city’s vibrant atmosphere, reflecting on the rich history and natural beauty experienced throughout the day.
***An optional dinner in a nearby village can be arranged.
Day 11: Peles Castle – Bucharest
After exploring Peles Castle, your journey will take you back to Bucharest. The drive down the Prahova Valley offers scenic views of the Carpathian Mountains, transitioning back to the urban landscape of Romania’s capital. Once in Bucharest, you’ll have some free time to revisit any sights you may have missed at the beginning of your tour or to simply relax and enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
Your guide will ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel or directly to Henri Coandă International Airport for your departure flight, leaving you with lasting memories and stories to share of your Romanian adventure.
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.
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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