12 days
Duration
Black Sea Coast, Bucovina, Danube Delta, Maramures, Transylvania
Regions
Cultural Tour, Long Tour, Private Cruise, Private Tour
Tour Type
- Accommodation
- Attractions
- Danube Delta
- Exclusive Tour
- Fortified Churches
- Holiday in Bucovina
- Holiday in Maramures
- Holiday in Transylvania
- Holiday to Romania
- Long Tour
- Meals included
- Medieval Castles
- Medieval Cities
- Medieval Fortresses
- Painted Monasteries
- Private Tour
- Salt Mines
- Saxon Villages
- Tours in Bucovina
- Tours in Maramures
- Tours in Moldavia
- Tours in Romania
- Tours in Transylvania
- Traditional Food
- Traditional Villages
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- Wooden Churches
DISCOVER THE BEAUTY, CULTURE, AND HISTORY OF ROMANIA ON A 12-DAY TOUR WITH EXPERT GUIDES
Discover the timeless treasures of Romania on a 13-day guided tour that takes you through charming medieval towns, breathtaking landscapes, and historic landmarks. From the charming old town of Brasov to the stunning Peles Castle, this tour is designed to immerse you in the rich cultural heritage of this beautiful country.
Explore the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler in Sighisoara, visit the fortified churches of Saschiz and Viscri, and learn about the legends of Dracula at Bran Castle. See over 100 rescued bears in their natural habitat at the Bear Sanctuary and take in the panoramic views of the Bucegi and Kings Stone Mountains.
Experience traditional Romanian cuisine and hospitality with an exclusive village tour and lunch in Viscri, and savor organic Transylvanian jams on a visit to a local producer. You’ll also have time to explore the beautiful resort town of Sinaia and Bucharest, the dynamic capital of Romania.
Throughout the tour, knowledgeable local guides will share insights into the country’s fascinating history and culture, making this an unforgettable journey. With customizable options, including the ability to extend your stay in Bucharest, this tour is perfect for anyone looking to discover the timeless treasures of Romania.
The tour can be personalised according to your time and points of interest.
Itinerary: Bucharest – the Black Sea Coast – Histria Fortress – Danube Delta Private Cruise – Bucovina Exterior Painted Monasteries – Bistrita City Tour – Wooden Churches of Maramures – Steam Train Trip – Maramures Region Highlights & Folklore Show – Turda Salt Mine – Sibiu Walking Tour – Exclusive Gypsy Home Visit – Historic Center of Sighisoara – Saxon Villages with Fortified Churches in Transylvania – Brasov Walking Tour – Peles and Bran Castles
| DEPARTURE/RETURN | Bucharest (or any other city at request) |
| TRANSPORTATION | Fully insured car/minivan with climate control |
| TOURIST GUIDE | Certified English-Speaker Tourist Guide (speakers of other languages at request) |
| 13 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and 2 on the Tentative List | Danube Delta (Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve) Surdesti Wooden Church (Maramures Wooden Churches) Budesti Wooden Church (Maramures Wooden Churches) Barsana Wooden Church (Maramures Wooden Churches) Ieud Wooden Church (Maramures Wooden Churches) Voronet Monastery (Bucovina Exterior Painted Monasteries) Moldovita Monastery (Bucovina Exterior Painted Monasteries) Sucevita Monastery (Bucovina Exterior Painted Monasteries) Humor Monastery (Bucovina Exterior Painted Monasteries) Historic Center of Sighisoara Biertan Fortified Church (Villages with Fortified Church in Transylvania) Saschiz Fortified Church (Villages with Fortified Church in Transylvania) Viscri Fortified Church (Villages with Fortified Church in Transylvania) Historic Centre of Sibiu and its Ensemble of Squares (Tentative List for UNESCO World Heritage Sites) Historic Town of Alba Iulia (Tentative List for UNESCO World Heritage Sites) |
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS AND UNIQUE CULTURAL CONNECTIONS
- Benefit from complete flexibility and tailor your tour to your preferences, including the route, duration, and features;
- Spend no more than two days in the same location, allowing you to explore more of Romania;
- Enhance your experience with tours tailored to your interests and traveling style;
- Visit no less than 13 UNESCO World Heritage Sites and 2 on the Tentative List through our exclusively designed tours and cultural connections in Danube Delta, Transylvania, Maramures, and Bucovina;
- Enjoy the exceptional knowledge and expertise of Romania’s top-rated licensed tourist guides with excellent reviews;
- Take a unique chance to meet Gypsies in their own community in Transylvania and discover their particular culture and craftsmanship;
- Enjoy traditional Romanian delicacies from all three regions and authentic local dining in our traditional homes in Maramures and Transylvania, including a traditional Bucovina lunch;
- Meet local people in traditional markets and a real home in Maramures, and interact with locals in all home-hosted experiences and local markets on our authentic cultural connections;
- Discover the daily life, self-sufficiency, and sustainability in the remote Saxon villages of Transylvania and Maramures;
- Meet local artists, including an icon designer, a blacksmith, a potter, and an egg painter in their workshops and learn about traditional arts and crafts;
- Make the most of your tour experience with exclusively designed tours, including all admissions and not just guided walks;
- Experience the nature wilderness of the Danube Delta during your private boat trip.
| DEPARTURE/RETURN | Bucharest (it can be changed at your request) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| TRANSPORTATION | Fully insured car/minivan with climate control | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| TOURIST GUIDE | Certified English-Speaker Tourist Guide (speakers of other languages at request) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| INCLUDED |
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| NOT INCLUDED |
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Day 1: Bucharest Arrival
Embark on your journey to discover the Timeless Treasures of Romania with a warm welcome from your driver upon arrival at the Henri Coanda International Airport in Bucharest. After a comfortable transfer, you will arrive at your 4-star hotel situated in the heart of the vibrant city center. Take a moment to settle in and relax in your comfortable surroundings.
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Day 2: the Black Sea Coast – Histria Fortress – Tulcea
After breakfast, your guide will meet you at the hotel, and you will begin your journey to Constanta, the largest city on the Black Sea and one of the oldest established Greek colonies in the 4th century BC. As you drive towards the city, you will have the chance to see the impressive Anghel Saligny Bridge, inaugurated by King Carol I in 1895.
Upon arriving in Constanta, you will embark on a walking tour, visiting the iconic Secession style Casino and the Genoese Lighthouse. Then, you will visit the National Museum of Archaeology, where you can witness the beautifully restored Roman Mosaic, one of the largest in Europe, and the Glykon Serpent, a fascinating sculpture.
In the afternoon, you will head to Mamaia, Romania’s largest sea resort, which was established in the second half of the 19th century by King Carol I. From there, you will travel north to the ancient ruins of Histria Citadel, a must-see site that tell the story of Romania’s rich history.
As the sun sets, you will arrive in Tulcea, located at the entrance of the Danube Delta. You will have some free time to explore the city before enjoying dinner at one of the local restaurants. A great suggestion is Ivan Pescar – Fish Bar, which serves some of the freshest seafood in the area.
Upon arriving in Constanta, you will embark on a walking tour, visiting the iconic Secession style Casino and the Genoese Lighthouse. Then, you will visit the National Museum of Archaeology, where you can witness the beautifully restored Roman Mosaic, one of the largest in Europe, and the Glykon Serpent, a fascinating sculpture.
In the afternoon, you will head to Mamaia, Romania’s largest sea resort, which was established in the second half of the 19th century by King Carol I. From there, you will travel north to the ancient ruins of Histria Citadel, a must-see site that tell the story of Romania’s rich history.
As the sun sets, you will arrive in Tulcea, located at the entrance of the Danube Delta. You will have some free time to explore the city before enjoying dinner at one of the local restaurants. A great suggestion is Ivan Pescar – Fish Bar, which serves some of the freshest seafood in the area.
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Day 3: Danube Delta Private Cruise with Lunch – Galati Ferry – Bucovina
The Danube Delta is one of the world’s most unique ecosystems and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy a delicious breakfast before embarking on a private boat to explore the Delta’s serene waterways, where you’ll be surrounded by stunning natural beauty and wildlife. Keep an eye out for the region’s diverse bird species – the Delta is renowned as a paradise for birdwatchers, so make sure to have your camera ready. Your expert fauna specialist tour guide and skipper will take you through the narrow channels, and you will have the opportunity to learn about the Delta’s rich cultural and natural history.
After your private Delta cruise, enjoy a scrumptious lunch on board your boat, featuring local Danube Delta cuisine.
Afterward, you will cross the Danube on the Galati ferry as you head towards the Bucovina region. Upon arrival, you will check into a comfortable 4* hotel in the heart of the region. Dinner is on your own, and we recommend that you try out some of the traditional Bucovina dishes, which are renowned for their delicious flavors.
After your private Delta cruise, enjoy a scrumptious lunch on board your boat, featuring local Danube Delta cuisine.
Afterward, you will cross the Danube on the Galati ferry as you head towards the Bucovina region. Upon arrival, you will check into a comfortable 4* hotel in the heart of the region. Dinner is on your own, and we recommend that you try out some of the traditional Bucovina dishes, which are renowned for their delicious flavors.
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Day 4: Bucovina Painted Monasteries (UNESCO World Heritage Sites) & Traditional Lunch – Black Pottery Workshop
On the fourth day of your Timeless Treasures of Romania tour, you will delve deeper into the rich cultural heritage of Bucovina, a region famous for its unique painted monasteries, traditional crafts, and vibrant folk culture.
After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, you will set off on a journey through time as you visit the Folk Traditions Museum of Bucovina, where you will learn about the customs, traditions, and way of life of the local people. This museum offers an authentic glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region, and you will have the opportunity to see traditional Bucovina household arrangements, clothing, and customs for different moments of life and main celebrations throughout the year.
Next, you will embark on a tour of the famous painted monasteries of Bucovina, which are among the most important cultural landmarks of Romania and have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These unique monasteries date back to the 15th and 16th centuries and are famous for their colorful frescoes and intricate architecture, which reflect the artistic and spiritual traditions of the region.
You will visit the “big four” painted monasteries, which include the Voronet, Moldovita, Sucevita, and Humor monasteries. The first stop is at the Voronet Painted Monastery, which is considered the most famous and important of all the painted monasteries, known as the “Sistine Chapel of the Orient.” The monastery’s frescoes feature one of the best Last Judgment scenes in the world, and the vibrant Voronet Blue color used in the frescoes is considered unique and has been dubbed “the color of Voronet” by art historians.
Next, you will visit the Moldovita Painted Monastery, which features two towers on both corners of the facade and a powerful tower for the gate. The monastery is known for its impressive frescoes, which depict scenes from the Bible and the lives of saints, and its unique architecture, which reflects the local traditions and culture.
After the visit to the Moldovita Monastery, you will stop for a traditional lunch in the picturesque village of Sucevita, where you will have the chance to savor the flavors of Bucovina cuisine and immerse yourself in the local culture.
In the afternoon, you will visit the nearby Sucevita Painted Monastery, which is the largest of all the painted monasteries and looks more like a fortress than a monastery. The Virtues Ladder fresco, which depicts the ascent of souls to heaven, is considered one of the best frescoes in Bucovina and is known for its impressive scale and vivid colors.
Next, you will visit the workshop of black pottery, a local craft that dates back to the 16th century and is still practiced today using traditional techniques. You will have the chance to observe the skilled artisans at work and learn about the history and significance of this unique craft.
The final stop of the day is at the Humor Painted Monastery, which is the only painted monastery without a belfry tower. The monastery’s frescoes are known for their vivid colors and expressiveness, and they depict scenes from the life of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and the lives of saints.
After a day of exploring the cultural treasures of Bucovina, you will return to your hotel, where you can relax and reflect on the rich history and traditions of this unique region.
After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, you will set off on a journey through time as you visit the Folk Traditions Museum of Bucovina, where you will learn about the customs, traditions, and way of life of the local people. This museum offers an authentic glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region, and you will have the opportunity to see traditional Bucovina household arrangements, clothing, and customs for different moments of life and main celebrations throughout the year.
Next, you will embark on a tour of the famous painted monasteries of Bucovina, which are among the most important cultural landmarks of Romania and have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These unique monasteries date back to the 15th and 16th centuries and are famous for their colorful frescoes and intricate architecture, which reflect the artistic and spiritual traditions of the region.
You will visit the “big four” painted monasteries, which include the Voronet, Moldovita, Sucevita, and Humor monasteries. The first stop is at the Voronet Painted Monastery, which is considered the most famous and important of all the painted monasteries, known as the “Sistine Chapel of the Orient.” The monastery’s frescoes feature one of the best Last Judgment scenes in the world, and the vibrant Voronet Blue color used in the frescoes is considered unique and has been dubbed “the color of Voronet” by art historians.
Next, you will visit the Moldovita Painted Monastery, which features two towers on both corners of the facade and a powerful tower for the gate. The monastery is known for its impressive frescoes, which depict scenes from the Bible and the lives of saints, and its unique architecture, which reflects the local traditions and culture.
After the visit to the Moldovita Monastery, you will stop for a traditional lunch in the picturesque village of Sucevita, where you will have the chance to savor the flavors of Bucovina cuisine and immerse yourself in the local culture.
In the afternoon, you will visit the nearby Sucevita Painted Monastery, which is the largest of all the painted monasteries and looks more like a fortress than a monastery. The Virtues Ladder fresco, which depicts the ascent of souls to heaven, is considered one of the best frescoes in Bucovina and is known for its impressive scale and vivid colors.
Next, you will visit the workshop of black pottery, a local craft that dates back to the 16th century and is still practiced today using traditional techniques. You will have the chance to observe the skilled artisans at work and learn about the history and significance of this unique craft.
The final stop of the day is at the Humor Painted Monastery, which is the only painted monastery without a belfry tower. The monastery’s frescoes are known for their vivid colors and expressiveness, and they depict scenes from the life of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and the lives of saints.
After a day of exploring the cultural treasures of Bucovina, you will return to your hotel, where you can relax and reflect on the rich history and traditions of this unique region.
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Day 5: Egg Painting Workshop – Bistrita Walking Tour – Borgo Pass – Woman Museum – Ieud Wooden Church – Home Hosted Dinner in Maramures
We start the day by visiting an egg-painting artist and learning about this ancient Bucovina tradition. We’ll get to see painted eggs from all over the world. Next, we head towards the border of Transylvania to Bistrita, one of the seven fortified cities built by the Saxons. We take a short walking tour of the city center where we can see the Coopers Tower, the Silversmith’s House, the Great Square, the Union Square and the Orthodox Church. Bistrita is also the town mentioned in Bram Stoker’s novel, Dracula. After the tour, we will follow Jonathan Harker’s road to Dracula’s castle and arrive at Borgo Pass, the place where the imaginary Dracula’s castle was mentioned.
Then, we head to the remote region of Maramures, also known as the “Land of Wood,” where the people have developed a strong sense of community and a unique personality, traditions, culture, and lifestyle unspoiled for centuries. We will visit the unique local museum in the village of Dragomiresti, located in a 300-year-old home. Next, we will visit the Ieud on the Hill wooden church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where an important discovery was made: the Codex of Ieud, a document dating back to 1391 and considered to be the oldest example of written Romanian language.
The day ends with a home-hosted dinner in Maramures, where we can experience the hospitality and cuisine of the local people. This day promises to be a unique and immersive cultural experience.
Then, we head to the remote region of Maramures, also known as the “Land of Wood,” where the people have developed a strong sense of community and a unique personality, traditions, culture, and lifestyle unspoiled for centuries. We will visit the unique local museum in the village of Dragomiresti, located in a 300-year-old home. Next, we will visit the Ieud on the Hill wooden church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where an important discovery was made: the Codex of Ieud, a document dating back to 1391 and considered to be the oldest example of written Romanian language.
The day ends with a home-hosted dinner in Maramures, where we can experience the hospitality and cuisine of the local people. This day promises to be a unique and immersive cultural experience.
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Day 6: Steam Train Trip – Barsana Wooden Church – Home Hosted Dinner in Maramures
You’ll start your day with a half-day ride on the narrow-gauge railway with a steam-powered train engine, known as the “Mocanița.” This train ride is beloved by both tourists and rail enthusiasts alike and offers an excellent opportunity to witness the beauty and wilderness of the northern Romanian Carpathian Mountains. During the six-hour trip, you’ll be able to enjoy a picnic break and take in the stunning scenery.
After your train ride, your tour continues along the picturesque Iza River Valley, an excellent opportunity to witness daily life in this corner of Romania. Your first stop will be the exquisite Barsana Monastery, an example of Maramures wooden church architecture at its finest.
Next, you’ll visit the Barsana Wooden Church, another UNESCO World Heritage Site in the region. The church’s intricate woodwork and unique architecture are a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the Maramures people.
After your visits to the monastery and the wooden church, you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about the dowry traditions of the region and admire the wonderfully carved wooden gates of Maramures. Your accommodation for the evening will be in a private house in a Maramures village. You’ll enjoy a traditional home-hosted dinner, complete with homemade plum brandy, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture and way of life. This will be an evening to remember and an excellent opportunity to experience the warmth and hospitality of the Maramures people.
After your train ride, your tour continues along the picturesque Iza River Valley, an excellent opportunity to witness daily life in this corner of Romania. Your first stop will be the exquisite Barsana Monastery, an example of Maramures wooden church architecture at its finest.
Next, you’ll visit the Barsana Wooden Church, another UNESCO World Heritage Site in the region. The church’s intricate woodwork and unique architecture are a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the Maramures people.
After your visits to the monastery and the wooden church, you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about the dowry traditions of the region and admire the wonderfully carved wooden gates of Maramures. Your accommodation for the evening will be in a private house in a Maramures village. You’ll enjoy a traditional home-hosted dinner, complete with homemade plum brandy, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture and way of life. This will be an evening to remember and an excellent opportunity to experience the warmth and hospitality of the Maramures people.
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Day 7: Exclusive Walking Tour – Sighetu Marmatiei – Communism Memorial – Sapanta Merry Cemetery – Dinner with Folklore Show
After breakfast, you will have an exclusive walking tour of the village, which includes a visit to an icon-glass workshop where you will learn about the traditional technique, a local plum brandy distillery, and a natural whirlpool still used by local women to wash carpets and blankets.
You will also visit the colourful fruit and vegetable market in the town’s open-air market, and then head to the Memorial of the Victims of Communism and of the Resistance, a former political prison during communist times. This is one of the main memorial sites in Europe, alongside Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Battle of Normandy Memorial.
Next, you will visit the house of Nobel Prize Winner Elie Wiesel, who was born in this Romanian town. You will then continue your journey to the village of Sapanta, famous for the world-renowned Merry Cemetery, where each wooden cross carries a funny epitaph about the person’s life. Before returning to the village, you will also have the chance to take a view of the tallest wooden structure in the world, Sapanta Peri monastery.
In the evening, you will enjoy a home-hosted dinner with an exclusively organized Maramures folklore show at your accommodation place, offering you an even deeper cultural connection with the local people and their traditions.
You will also visit the colourful fruit and vegetable market in the town’s open-air market, and then head to the Memorial of the Victims of Communism and of the Resistance, a former political prison during communist times. This is one of the main memorial sites in Europe, alongside Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Battle of Normandy Memorial.
Next, you will visit the house of Nobel Prize Winner Elie Wiesel, who was born in this Romanian town. You will then continue your journey to the village of Sapanta, famous for the world-renowned Merry Cemetery, where each wooden cross carries a funny epitaph about the person’s life. Before returning to the village, you will also have the chance to take a view of the tallest wooden structure in the world, Sapanta Peri monastery.
In the evening, you will enjoy a home-hosted dinner with an exclusively organized Maramures folklore show at your accommodation place, offering you an even deeper cultural connection with the local people and their traditions.
8
Day 8: Surdesti & Budesti Wooden Churches – Organic Smoked Bacon Tasting with Home-made Lunch – Turda Salt Mine – Sibiu
Start your day with a visit to two of the most beautiful wooden churches in Maramures, the Budesti Wooden Church and the Church of Surdesti. Both are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and feature stunning architecture that showcases the unique wooden church style of Maramures. The Budesti Wooden Church was completed in 1643 and boasts a tower built in Gothic style, while the Church of Surdesti is the oldest and tallest wooden structure in Europe, built in 1766.
After your church visits, continue south and stop in a traditional 20th century village to experience the art of smoked bacon making. Here you will learn about the traditional techniques used to smoke the bacon and have the opportunity to taste this delicious organic treat. A home-made lunch will be served during your visit, allowing you to experience traditional Romanian cuisine and hospitality.
Next, the tour continues to the Turda Salt Mine, one of the oldest salt mines in the world, dating back to the 13th century. This enormous underground space was also used as a bomb shelter during World War II and even as a cheese storage centre. The salt mine has been converted into a modern tourist attraction, featuring underground lakes, light shows, and even an underground Ferris wheel.
Finally, the tour arrives in Sibiu, one of the most beautiful and well-preserved medieval cities in Europe. The city’s historical centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features stunning architecture, museums, and art galleries. Enjoy a free evening to explore the city, stroll along its charming streets, and dine at one of its many delicious restaurants.
After your church visits, continue south and stop in a traditional 20th century village to experience the art of smoked bacon making. Here you will learn about the traditional techniques used to smoke the bacon and have the opportunity to taste this delicious organic treat. A home-made lunch will be served during your visit, allowing you to experience traditional Romanian cuisine and hospitality.
Next, the tour continues to the Turda Salt Mine, one of the oldest salt mines in the world, dating back to the 13th century. This enormous underground space was also used as a bomb shelter during World War II and even as a cheese storage centre. The salt mine has been converted into a modern tourist attraction, featuring underground lakes, light shows, and even an underground Ferris wheel.
Finally, the tour arrives in Sibiu, one of the most beautiful and well-preserved medieval cities in Europe. The city’s historical centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features stunning architecture, museums, and art galleries. Enjoy a free evening to explore the city, stroll along its charming streets, and dine at one of its many delicious restaurants.
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Day 9: Sibiu Walking Tour – Medias City Tour – Exclusive Gypsy Home Visit – Saxon Village of Biertan with the Fortified Church
Start the day with a walking tour of Sibiu, the former chief city of the Transylvanian Saxons, and visit the Great and Lesser Squares, surrounded by merchant houses with the famous Sibiu eyes. Explore the old defence walls and the remaining towers belonging to the merchant guilds.
Discover the Evangelical Cathedral, completed in its actual shape in 1520, before departing to Medias, the 13th-century Saxon fortified city in Transylvania. Admire the fortified St. Margaret Evangelical Church and the Trumpeters’ Tower during a short walking tour, and visit a Gypsy home on an exclusive home visit, learning about this less-known yet controversial ethnic group, its culture, identity, and lifestyle.
After the home visit, head to the fortified church of Biertan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former seat of the Lutheran Bishops of Transylvania. Admire its three belts of fortification, making it the most impressive fortified church in Transylvania. The evening brings you to Sighisoara, the only still inhabited medieval citadel in Europe, and an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Accommodation in the Upper Town.
As an optional activity, indulge in Transylvanian wine tasting in a 500-year old cellar in Sighisoara, and savor some of the best wines from the region.
***Optional: Transylvanian wine tasting in a 500-year old cellar in Sighisoara
Discover the Evangelical Cathedral, completed in its actual shape in 1520, before departing to Medias, the 13th-century Saxon fortified city in Transylvania. Admire the fortified St. Margaret Evangelical Church and the Trumpeters’ Tower during a short walking tour, and visit a Gypsy home on an exclusive home visit, learning about this less-known yet controversial ethnic group, its culture, identity, and lifestyle.
After the home visit, head to the fortified church of Biertan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the former seat of the Lutheran Bishops of Transylvania. Admire its three belts of fortification, making it the most impressive fortified church in Transylvania. The evening brings you to Sighisoara, the only still inhabited medieval citadel in Europe, and an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Accommodation in the Upper Town.
As an optional activity, indulge in Transylvanian wine tasting in a 500-year old cellar in Sighisoara, and savor some of the best wines from the region.
***Optional: Transylvanian wine tasting in a 500-year old cellar in Sighisoara
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Day 10: Sighisoara Walking Tour – Saxon Village of Saschiz & Viscri with the Fortified Churches – Exclusive Viscri Village Tour & Traditional Lunch – Brasov
On day 10 of the tour, get ready to explore the medieval charm of Sighisoara, birthplace of Vlad the Impaler. Walk through the Citadel’s two squares, see the Scholars’ Staircase, the Tinsmiths’ Tower, the House with Antler, and the Tower with Clock.
Next, venture south to Saschiz Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you’ll see the imposing clock tower and Late-Gothic fortified church. On the way, enjoy an exclusive tasting of organic Transylvanian jams.
Continue to Viscri village, one of the oldest in Transylvania, where you’ll savor a traditional lunch prepared by your host with locally sourced ingredients in their traditional Saxon house. After lunch, take an exclusive tour of the village, visit the Fortified Church, and meet a traditional blacksmith in his workshop, all while riding in a horse cart.
The day ends with a hotel check-in in the lovely pedestrian area of the Old Town of Brasov, where you can explore the many restaurants and outdoor cafes.
Next, venture south to Saschiz Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you’ll see the imposing clock tower and Late-Gothic fortified church. On the way, enjoy an exclusive tasting of organic Transylvanian jams.
Continue to Viscri village, one of the oldest in Transylvania, where you’ll savor a traditional lunch prepared by your host with locally sourced ingredients in their traditional Saxon house. After lunch, take an exclusive tour of the village, visit the Fortified Church, and meet a traditional blacksmith in his workshop, all while riding in a horse cart.
The day ends with a hotel check-in in the lovely pedestrian area of the Old Town of Brasov, where you can explore the many restaurants and outdoor cafes.
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Day 11: Bear Sanctuary – Bran Castle – Brasov Walking Tour
After breakfast, we will embark on an exciting adventure to visit the Bear Sanctuary, located deep in the Carpathian Mountains. This sanctuary is the largest of its kind in Europe, home to over 100 rescued bears who are now able to live in their natural habitat. As we explore the sanctuary, you will have the opportunity to learn about the bears’ unique stories and see them climb trees, swim in pools, and play. The sanctuary offers 360-degree views of the stunning Bucegi Mountains and the Kings Stone Mountains, providing a breathtaking backdrop for this unforgettable experience.
Next, we will head to Bran Castle, also known as “Dracula’s Castle.” This impressive Gothic castle was built in 1377 to protect the trade route between Transylvania and Wallachia. Although there is no historical evidence linking Bran Castle to the fictional vampire, its intriguing history has inspired the legend of Dracula. You will have the chance to explore the castle’s royal residence and discover local souvenirs and handmade crafts just outside the castle.
After visiting Bran Castle, we will return to Brasov, one of the oldest cities in Europe, and embark on a walking tour of the Old Town. The tour includes many highlights of this important Saxon city, including the impressive Black Church, Council Square, Catherine’s Gate, Guild Towers, and Rope Street. The Black Church is the largest Gothic church in Romania, and its imposing presence dominates the skyline of Brasov.
After the walking tour, you’ll have the rest of the day to spend at your leisure in Brasov. In the evening, an optional dinner in a nearby village can be arranged if you wish to experience the local cuisine and drinks.
***An optional dinner in a nearby village can be arranged.
Next, we will head to Bran Castle, also known as “Dracula’s Castle.” This impressive Gothic castle was built in 1377 to protect the trade route between Transylvania and Wallachia. Although there is no historical evidence linking Bran Castle to the fictional vampire, its intriguing history has inspired the legend of Dracula. You will have the chance to explore the castle’s royal residence and discover local souvenirs and handmade crafts just outside the castle.
After visiting Bran Castle, we will return to Brasov, one of the oldest cities in Europe, and embark on a walking tour of the Old Town. The tour includes many highlights of this important Saxon city, including the impressive Black Church, Council Square, Catherine’s Gate, Guild Towers, and Rope Street. The Black Church is the largest Gothic church in Romania, and its imposing presence dominates the skyline of Brasov.
After the walking tour, you’ll have the rest of the day to spend at your leisure in Brasov. In the evening, an optional dinner in a nearby village can be arranged if you wish to experience the local cuisine and drinks.
***An optional dinner in a nearby village can be arranged.
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Day 12: Peles Castle – Bucharest
On the twelfth and final day of the Timeless Treasures of Romania tour, we will visit the magnificent Peles Castle, a true gem of Romania’s architectural heritage. This castle was the summer residence of the Romanian royal family, and it is a stunning work of art with impressive art collections, intricate carvings, and breathtaking gardens. You will have the chance to explore this masterpiece of neo-Renaissance architecture and see its many treasures, including the Music Room, the Hall of Mirrors, and the Turkish Room.
After the castle tour, we will head to the picturesque town of Sinaia, also known as the “Pearl of the Carpathians.” Here, you will have an orientation tour of the town and see its many attractions, including the famous Casino building and the beautiful Orthodox monastery. You will also have a chance to take in the panoramic views of the town and the surrounding mountains.
The tour concludes with a transfer to your hotel or the airport in Bucharest, where you will say goodbye to your guide. Whether you are heading back home or extending your stay in Bucharest, we are confident that you will have unforgettable memories of the scenic landscapes, charming medieval towns, and historic landmarks you experienced on this tour. Remember, the tour is customizable, so if you would like to add any additional experiences or destinations, we are happy to accommodate your requests.
***Optional: You can choose a Bucharest City Tour (requires one extra day)
NOTE: The tour is further customizable.
After the castle tour, we will head to the picturesque town of Sinaia, also known as the “Pearl of the Carpathians.” Here, you will have an orientation tour of the town and see its many attractions, including the famous Casino building and the beautiful Orthodox monastery. You will also have a chance to take in the panoramic views of the town and the surrounding mountains.
The tour concludes with a transfer to your hotel or the airport in Bucharest, where you will say goodbye to your guide. Whether you are heading back home or extending your stay in Bucharest, we are confident that you will have unforgettable memories of the scenic landscapes, charming medieval towns, and historic landmarks you experienced on this tour. Remember, the tour is customizable, so if you would like to add any additional experiences or destinations, we are happy to accommodate your requests.
***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
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Extra Day 1: Bucovina – Iasi City Tour – Soroca
We will begin the three-day extension with the tour of Iasi city, the unofficial capital of the Moldavian region of Romania, here we will explore the Palace of Culture, the once gold-plated Church of the Three Hierarchs, Golia Monastery and the Neoclassical National Theatre. After this incursion, we will cross the Prut River in Republic of Moldavia, outside of the European Union. On the route enjoy the countryside to Soroca, the town that hosts the greatest and most impressive fortress in Republic of Moldavia. Before reaching the hotel we will visit a different part of the Soroca town, named the Gypsy Hill, where the Gypsy community built a neighbourhood of palaces. After this hotel check in and dinner on your own.
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Extra Day 2: Soroca Fortress – Old Orhei with Traditional Lunch – Cricova Wine Cellars – Chisinau City Tour
After the breakfast, we will start the day with a visit to the one of the best well-preserved fortresses of Europe, established by the Moldavian Prince Stephen the Great in 1499.
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.
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.
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Extra Day 3: Bender Fortress – Tiraspol Tour – Bucovina
The last day in Republic of Moldavia will be an incursion in the unrecognized Pridnestrovian Moldavian Republic (Transnistria). It officially belongs to Moldova and is its second largest city.
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.
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
Absolutely perfect! Our guide was kind, enthusiastic and had a lot of knowledge! He knew every answer on our questions. Recommended!
This was an excellent trip organised by Dan of Holiday to Romania. We were driven in an air conditioned car with a lovely English speaking guide. The accommodation was good and often historic building. We had meals with locals and visited many Saxon fortified churches, the wooden churches and painted monasteries and many other castles and places of interest. Nothing was too much trouble for Dan. We are in our seventies and were extremely well looked after.
My husband and I have traveled quite extensively and have therefore had many experiences with guides and traveling on our own. We are not fans of large tours and wanted a relaxing vacation without having to do much planning on our own. We reached out to Dan and from the initial contact with him, we were very impressed and that sentiment was carried throughout our tour. Dan took our desired highlights and propose us a 12 day tour through Romania. He responded immediately to our emails, even with a 9 hour time difference. His communications were always thorough and helpful as we prepared for our trip. He also sent information to help us at the airport when we arrived. There was nothing left for us to think about as he prepared us extremely well. During the tour, Dan’s first concern was that we were having a good time. He went above and beyond expectations, was extremely accommodating, and happy to take any requests we had on the trip. I always felt safe whether it be with him behind the wheel or suggesting the best dish at a restaurant. He never steered us wrong ;). We highly recommend both visiting Romania AND booking with Dan from Holiday to Romania!
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