- Accommodation
- Attractions
- Exclusive Tour
- Fortified Churches
- Holiday in Transylvania
- Holiday to Romania
- Meals included
- Medieval Castles
- Medieval Cities
- Medieval Fortresses
- Private Guided Tour
- Private Tour
- Saxon Villages
- Short Tour
- Tours in Transylvania
- Traditional Food
- Traditional Villages
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Walking
- Wildlife
A 4 DAY CULTURAL PRIVATE TOUR IN THE MEDIEVAL TRANSYLVANIA
Embark on the “Transylvanian Escape,” a captivating four-day tour that takes you deep into the heart of Romania’s most storied region. This journey begins in Bucharest and quickly transports you to the scenic landscapes of the Olt River Gorges and the historic Cozia Monastery. As you travel deeper into Transylvania, you will uncover the rich cultural tapestry and architectural grandeur of Sibiu through an enlightening walking tour of its medieval core.
Continue to explore the enchanting towns of Medias and Sighisoara, where time seems to stand still. In Medias, you will wander through streets lined with colorful medieval houses and visit the Saxon Village of Biertan, home to one of Transylvania’s impressive fortified churches. Sighisoara, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a beautifully preserved glimpse into the past with its citadel, cobbled streets, and the iconic Clock Tower.
Your adventure will also take you to the heart of Romanian folklore and natural beauty. An exclusive visit to a Gypsy home provides an authentic look at local traditions, while the Wildness Bear Observatory offers a chance to see Carpathian brown bears in their natural habitat. The tour culminates with a day in Brasov, exploring its Gothic landmarks before visiting the legendary Bran Castle and the exquisite Peles Castle.
This tour is not just a trip through picturesque landscapes and historical landmarks; it’s an immersive experience into the culture, history, and soul of Transylvania. Return to Bucharest enriched with stories and memories of a land where history intertwines seamlessly with the mystique of the present.
The tour can be personalised according to your time and points of interest.
Itinerary: Bucharest Arrival – Cozia Monastery – Sibiu Walking Tour – Exclusive Gypsy Home Visit – Biertan Fortified Church – Sighisoara Walking Tour – Saxon Villages of Saschiz & Viscri – Wildness Bear Observatory – Brasov Walking Tour – Peles & Bran Castles – Bucharest Departure
| DEPARTURE/RETURN | The tour starts and ends at Bucharest Airport. However, departures and returns from Brasov, Sibiu Airports, or any harbor along the Danube can also be arranged to best suit your travel plans, ensuring flexibility and convenience. |
| TRANSPORTATION | Travel comfortably in a fully insured modern car or minivan equipped with climate control, ensuring a pleasant journey throughout your tour, regardless of the weather conditions. |
| TOURIST GUIDE | A certified English-speaking guide will accompany you throughout the tour, offering expert insights into the history, culture, and legends of Transylvania. Guides who speak other languages can be arranged upon request. |
| 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and one on the Tentative List | 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. Historic Centre of Sibiu and its Ensemble of Squares (Tentative List for UNESCO World Heritage Sites) – A marvel of urban continuity and architectural coherence. |
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND UNIQUE CULTURAL CONNECTIONS
- Exclusive Castle Tours: Explore Romania’s most famous castles, Peles and Bran, uncovering the rich history and royal heritage of these iconic landmarks.
- Historic Brasov and Sibiu: Discover the medieval charm of Brasov and Sibiu with guided walking tours through their historic centers, showcasing Gothic architecture and vibrant town squares.
- Sighisoara’s Medieval Citadel: Visit the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler in Sighisoara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved walled town.
- LiBearty Bear Sanctuary: Learn about wildlife rescue and conservation efforts at this sanctuary, which provides a safe haven for previously captive bears.
- Saxon Village Exploration: Dive deep into the culture of Transylvania’s Saxon villages like Viscri and Saschiz, famed for their fortified churches and traditional lifestyles.
- Exclusive Gypsy Home Visit: Gain insight into the unique culture and traditions of the Roma community with a rare visit to a Gypsy family’s home.
- Blacksmith Demonstration: Experience traditional craftsmanship during a live blacksmith demonstration in Viscri.
- Traditional Transylvanian Lunch: Savor authentic local cuisine in a Saxon village, enhancing your cultural immersion.
- Cozia Monastery Visit: Admire the medieval frescoes and serene setting of Cozia Monastery, a historical and architectural gem.
- Interactive Cultural Talks: Engage in enlightening discussions about Transylvanian history, including stories of Vlad the Impaler and the local Gypsy community.
| DEPARTURE/RETURN | The tour starts and ends at Bucharest Airport. However, departures and returns from Brasov or Sibiu Airports can also be arranged to best suit your travel plans, ensuring flexibility and convenience. | ||||||||||||
| TRANSPORTATION | Travel comfortably in a fully insured modern car or minivan equipped with climate control, ensuring a pleasant journey throughout your tour, regardless of the weather conditions. | ||||||||||||
| TOURIST GUIDE | A certified English-speaking guide will accompany you throughout the tour, offering expert insights into the history, culture, and legends of Transylvania. Guides who speak other languages can be arranged upon request. | ||||||||||||
| INCLUDED |
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| NOT INCLUDED |
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Day 1: Bucharest Arrival – Olt River Gorges – Cozia Monastery – Sibiu Walking Tour
Welcome to Romania! Your Transylvanian Escape begins as you land in Bucharest, where your private guide will greet you warmly at the airport. As you depart the bustling capital, your journey northward takes you through the scenic Olt River Gorges, a spectacular introduction to the natural beauty of Romania. This route, framed by steep cliffs and verdant forests, follows the longest river in Romania, offering breathtaking views and a perfect opportunity for memorable photos.
Your first stop is Cozia Monastery, nestled on the banks of the Olt River. Built by Mircea the Elder in 1388, this Orthodox monastery is one of Romania’s oldest and most important religious sites. Explore its exquisite frescoes and serene surroundings, which provide a tranquil window into Romania’s medieval past and spiritual heritage.
Continue your journey to Sibiu, a cultural gem once the capital of Transylvania. Upon arrival, embark on a guided walking tour of this enchanting city, known for its Germanic architecture and the iconic ‘eyes of Sibiu’—small attic windows that appear to be watching you. Stroll through the main squares, Piața Mare and Piața Mică, surrounded by colorful houses and bustling with life. Visit key landmarks like the Brukenthal National Museum and the Lutheran Cathedral, where you can climb the steeple for a panoramic view of the city and beyond.
As the day winds down, settle into your accommodation in Sibiu. The evening is yours to explore more of the city’s vibrant culture and cuisine, perhaps enjoying a meal at one of the local restaurants, where you can taste traditional Transylvanian dishes in a historic setting. This first day of your tour sets a delightful tone for the adventures that await in the heart of Transylvania.
***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 2: Medias Walking Tour – Exclusive Gypsy Home Visit – Saxon Village of Biertan with the Fortified Church – Sighisoara
Next, experience a truly unique cultural encounter with a visit to a local Gypsy community. This exclusive opportunity allows you to engage directly with residents, gaining insight into their traditions, lifestyle, and crafts. Understand the historical and contemporary aspects of their culture in a personal and respectful setting, which is sure to be a highlight of your trip.
Continue your cultural exploration with a visit to the Saxon village of Biertan and its impressive fortified church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The church, positioned at the center of the village atop a hill, is surrounded by three concentric walls that have protected it from invaders for centuries. Explore the architectural features and the famous locking mechanism of the church’s door, renowned for its complexity and ingenuity.
Conclude your day in the enchanting town of Sighisoara, one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe and the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, often associated with the Dracula legend. Check into your accommodation and enjoy an evening at leisure, perhaps exploring the quaint streets and beautiful landmarks such as the Clock Tower and the Church on the Hill, which offers stunning views over the town and surrounding landscapes. Your day full of historical insights and cultural encounters provides a deep connection to the rich tapestry of Transylvanian life.
***Optional: Transylvanian palinka tasting in a 500-year old cellar in Sighisoara
Day 3: Sighisoara Walking Tour – Saxon Village of Saschiz & Viscri with the Fortified Churches – Exclusive Viscri Village Tour & Traditional Lunch – Wildness Bear Observatory
From Sighisoara, your journey continues to the quaint village of Saschiz. Famous for its fortified church and rural charm, Saschiz offers a glimpse into the traditional Saxon lifestyle that has persisted through the centuries. Enjoy a quick visit to the fortified church, known for its striking tower that mirrors the Clock Tower in Sighisoara, reflecting the architectural and historical ties between these communities.
Next, travel to the charming village of Viscri, another UNESCO-listed site renowned for its fortified church and strong preservation efforts championed by the Prince of Wales. In Viscri, experience a unique carriage ride through the village, providing a picturesque and relaxing way to explore the area. You’ll also visit a local blacksmith to see traditional craftsmanship in action, further connecting you with the ancient trades that have supported these communities for generations.
Lunch will be a traditional affair in Viscri, prepared by local hosts who use fresh ingredients to create dishes that are as simple as they are delicious. This meal not only satiates your appetite but also offers a taste of authentic rural hospitality.
In the afternoon, head to the Wildness Bear Observatory. This remarkable facility provides a safe and ethical way to observe Carpathian brown bears in their natural habitat. The observatory is strategically positioned to maximize the chances of seeing these magnificent animals without intruding on their space. Witness the bears’ natural behaviors as they roam, forage, and interact in the forest, an unforgettable highlight for nature enthusiasts.
After a day filled with historical insights, cultural encounters, and wildlife observation, proceed to Brasov. This evening, settle into your accommodation and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of one of Transylvania’s most beautiful cities.
Day 4: Brasov Walking Tour – Bran & Peles Castles – Bucharest Departure
Next, travel to the legendary Bran Castle, often associated with the Dracula legend due to its association with Vlad the Impaler. Perched atop a 200-foot-high rock, Bran Castle boasts a dramatic architectural style and a fascinating history as a fortress at the border of Wallachia and Transylvania. Tour the castle’s many rooms and secret passages, and learn about its role in local legend and real history, which are often entwined.
Continue your journey to Peles Castle, a masterpiece of Neo-Renaissance architecture set in the picturesque town of Sinaia. Peles Castle was the summer residence of the Romanian royal family and is renowned for its stunning interiors and elaborate decorations. Explore its elaborately carved wooden ceilings, stained-glass windows, and one of the finest collections of art in Eastern and Central Europe.
After your visit to Peles Castle, your tour concludes with a return drive to Bucharest. Depending on your flight schedule, there might be some time to grab a quick bite or a last stroll through the streets of Bucharest before heading to the airport for your departure. Reflect on the rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty you’ve experienced over these few days, making your Transylvanian escape a memorable journey through the heart of Romania.
***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.
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Tour Reviews
We did a 4 day tours of Transylvania in August 2017 with Dan as our guide and driver. Dan was a fabulous guide and driver, he has our highest recommendation. Everything went very smoothly, we had great weather and will always have fond memories of our time in Romania.
We loved the tour, Dan took us places that all the other tour companies could only watch us do. We had an awesome time. Liviu was fun, had a great personality and you can tell he loves doing this. Next time we come to Transylvania we will definitely do this again. Thanks for a great time!
We were three women travelling with a 2 year old to Romania with a keen interest in visiting Transylvania. I contacted Holiday to Romania through a web search. Firstly, their response time back to me was very impressive and Dan provided a very comprehensive 4 day tour outline. We booked our trip with him and I have to say, we had the most amazing time. He has perfect English, is a very safe driver and his knowledge of the country and the sights he took us to was outstanding. He is very friendly and relaxed and accomadated our changing of plans to suit the toddler. We will definitely use Holiday to Romania and Dan again. Can’t recommend him highly enough.
We spent a week in Romania just before Christmas. We knew very little about this country but it fit into our travel plans nicely and we were hoping to see some snow at that time of the year.
I made contact with Dan and he patiently helped us put an itinerary together and organised it all.
As we arrived after a long haul flight into Bucharest we spent a day there before meeting up with him. He picked us up at the hotel and what we learned on the short drive out of Bucharest in his company, was more then we had found out the previous day which we spent wondering around on our own.
Dan’s knowledge about his home country is amazing and he will answer all questions in great detail without being boring. We traveled with our 16 year old son in tow and I often saw him and Dan engaged in some discussion. Therefore, I can recommend Dan as a guide for any traveler, families included.
Visiting Romania was a lifelong dream of mine. I reached out to Vlad @ Holiday Romania asking about visiting Corvin’s Castle. After a few emails, I ended up booking a 100% personalized 4 day private tour that was more than reasonably priced. Dan, my guide, was phenomenal from start to finish. The itinerary was unique and included many things I would’ve missed out on had I tried to do this myself. The information I learned from Dan during my trip was above and beyond anything I anticipated. I have traveled many places, but I don’t think I have ever had a tour experience come close to this one. Holiday Romania helped to make a lifelong dream come true for me and I cannot speak highly enough of them.
An incredible experience over 3 short days, historic town walks, castle tours, snow capped mountains, scenic views over 1100km trip expertly driven by our very knowledgeable and easy to understand Guide Adrian. So much was packed in yet so worry free it was amazing for us 2 retirees. Hotels were excellent with lots of character. Thanks for an unforgettable Adrian and Holidays to Romania.
We went to so many places in four days; walled cities of Sibiu and Sighisoara, ancient fortified churches at Biertan and Viscei, beautiful city of Brasov, Libearty Bear Sanctuary, Peles Castle, Bran Castle, Therme Spa, all guided and looked after by our lovely guide Adrian. Such a treat to have our own driver and guide – we learned so much of the history and culture of Romania.
It was an amazing tour. Vlad had to work very hard at our itinerary as we were too busy to tell him what we wanted but with persistence and key questions he managed to fulfill all our plans. Vlad didn’t rest until we were comfortable with the itinerary.
It was a private tour, only my husband and I and had to ask to pay for the trip this is how satisfied I was with his services.
We were picked up and dropped off to the airport in luxury cars and everyone spoke fluent English.
My mom and I had an amazing time during our short but fun tour around Transylvania. Our tour guide, Irena was very informative about the areas we visited and the history. What really stood out to me about Holiday to Romania is their customer service, always answered questions within 24 hours and really enjoyed the email about the temperatures in the areas to visit.
We did “Transylvanian Escape” with Holiday to Romania. Vlad organized this program perfectly and was available throughout our stay. Our guide Claudia was absolutely excellent: enthusiastic, very knowledgeable about the country, and very efficient. We highly recommend this company.
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