Embark on an unforgettable journey through Romania, a land of rich history, captivating landscapes, and warm hospitality. Begin in the vibrant capital city of Bucharest, then step back in time as you explore the enchanting medieval towns of Sibiu, Sighisoara, Brasov, and Alba Iulia. Marvel at Romania’s architectural treasures, from the grandeur of Mogosoaia Palace to the legendary Dracula Castle and the fairytale-like Peles Castle. Experience the charm of UNESCO-protected gems like Biertan and Viscri, with their fortified churches standing as testaments to a bygone era. Along the way, connect with locals, savor traditional brandy, and enjoy a delightful horse-drawn carriage ride through picturesque villages. This itinerary promises a perfect blend of culture, history, sens of community and authentic experiences you’ll treasure forever.
Day 1: Bucharest Arrival (approx. 30 km)
Welcome to Romania! Meet your local guide at Otopeni International Airport. Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Bucharest, known as “The Little Paris of the East.” Discover key landmarks including Unification Square with the Patriarchal Church, University Square, Roman Square, Victory Square, Arch of Triumph, and Revolution Square. In the evening, stroll through the medieval Old Town, bustling with restaurants, cafes, and pubs. Enjoy a traditional dinner at the historic “Caru cu Bere.”
Day 2: Bucharest – Mogosoaia – Cozia – Sibiu (approx. 280 km)
After breakfast, tour the Palace of the Parliament (“The People’s House”), the world’s largest and most expensive administrative building per Guinness World Records. Visit Mogosoaia Palace, a stunning example of Brancovenesc style architecture. Continue to Transylvania, stopping at Cozia Monastery, a 600-year-old Orthodox site. Travel to Sibiu and check in for two nights. Dinner at the hotel.
Day 3: Sibiu
Explore Sibiu on foot, the largest and wealthiest walled citadel in Transylvania founded by German settlers in the 12th century. Wander the pedestrian-friendly Upper and Lower Towns connected by the Stairs Passage. Visit the Brukenthal Palace (one of Europe’s oldest art museums), Grand Square, Little Square, Liar’s Bridge, and the Evangelical Cathedral. Meet a local NGO, “We Help,” dedicated to supporting disadvantaged children. In the evening, drive to the village of Sibiel to enjoy a home-cooked dinner with a local family, accompanied by wine and brandy.
Day 4: Sibiu – Hunedoara – Alba Iulia – Sighisoara (approx. 210 km)
Travel through picturesque Transylvanian landscapes to Hunedoara to visit the 14th-century Hunyadi Castle. Continue to Alba Iulia to see the largest Vauban fortress in Transylvania. Visit Biertan, home to one of the best-preserved medieval fortifications, built in 1500. Proceed to Sighisoara and check in for two nights. Dinner at the hotel.
Day 5: Sighisoara – Viscri – Sighisoara (approx. 90 km)
Drive to Viscri, where Prince Charles owns a traditional Saxon house. Explore the UNESCO-listed 13th-century Old Saxon Church and stroll the peaceful village streets. Enjoy lunch with locals and tour the village by horse-drawn carriage. In the afternoon, discover Sighisoara, Vlad the Impaler’s birthplace. Walk the medieval citadel, visit the Clock Tower, Church on the Hill, and Dracula’s birth house. Meet with ADEPT, an NGO supporting sustainable rural development and biodiversity conservation. Dinner at the hotel or optionally at Dracula Restaurant in the Old Town.
Day 6: Sighisoara – Bran – Brasov (approx. 180 km)
After breakfast, visit Bran Castle, famously associated with Dracula. Built in the 14th century by German Saxons, it served as a customs point and later a royal residence. Transfer to Brasov for a walking tour beginning at Council Square (Markplatz). Highlights include the Black Church, the largest Gothic church between Vienna and Istanbul, and the Rope Street, Europe’s narrowest street. Dinner at the hotel. (B, D)
Day 7: Brasov – Sinaia – Bucharest (approx. 180 km)
Drive to Sinaia to visit Peles Castle, a masterpiece of German new-Renaissance architecture and former summer residence of the royal family. Visit Sinaia Monastery, built in 1695 and inspired by Saint Catherine’s Monastery in Egypt. Enjoy leisure time in the alpine resort, “The Pearl of the Carpathian Mountains.” Continue to Bucharest for free time before a farewell dinner in the Old Town with one glass of wine.
Day 8: Bucharest – Departure (approx. 20 km)
Enjoy some last leisure time in Bucharest before transferring to the airport. Farewell from your guide.
7 nights at very good 4-star centrally located hotels
7 buffet breakfasts
7 three-course dinners (set menu or buffet) including:
• 1 welcome dinner at a local restaurant in Bucharest’s Old Town with one glass of wine or beer of your choice
• 1 dinner with locals in Sibiel village including wine and brandy
• 1 farewell dinner at a local restaurant in Bucharest with one glass of wine
1 lunch with locals in Viscri including wine
1 horse-drawn carriage tour in Viscri
1 meeting with the “We Help” NGO dedicated to supporting children
1 meeting with the ADEPT Foundation focused on biodiversity conservation and rural development
Professional English-speaking guide throughout your stay in Romania
All entrance fees and guided inside visits as per itinerary, including:
Palace of the Parliament, Mogosoaia Palace, Cozia Monastery, Evangelical Church Sibiu, Brukenthal Palace, Hunyadi Castle, Alba Iulia Fortress, Fortification Biertan, Clock Tower, Church on the Hill, Fortification Viscri, Dracula Castle, Black Church, Peles Castle, Sinaia Monastery
Transportation in a modern vehicle throughout your entire stay in Romania
Anything not mentioned in the inclusions.
Recommended travel period: May - October