6-Days Transylvania & Wooden Churches of Maramures from Bucharest

Exploring Romania through this 6-day private tour offers a captivating journey into its historical villages, legendary castles, and untouched rural scenery. Priced at $1,387.73 per person, the tour departs from Bucharest and is designed for small groups, with a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience led by an English-speaking guide. The itinerary combines cultural visits, scenic drives, and charming accommodations, making it an ideal choice for those looking to see Romania’s highlights with flexibility and depth.

This tour is especially appealing to travelers interested in Romania’s medieval architecture, UNESCO sites, and folklore, as well as those who appreciate local craftsmanship and authentic rural life. It includes all accommodations, breakfast, and two dinners, with entrance fees paid separately. While the tour covers a lot in six days, it is suited for those with moderate physical fitness, given the walking and some uneven terrain at stops like the wooden churches and castle grounds.

Key Points

• Private, small-group experience with personalized attention from an English-speaking guide
• Includes accommodations, breakfast, and two dinners, with some entrance fees paid separately
• Highlights include Dracula’s birthplace, Bran Castle, and the Wooden Churches of Maramures
• Visits to UNESCO sites like the Biertan Fortified Church and Corvin Castle
• Scenic drives on the Transfagarasan Highway (seasonal, June-October) and visits to medieval towns like Sibiu, Sighisoara, and Brasov
• Cultural insights at monasteries, museums, and local artisan demonstrations

From Bucharest to the Moors of Maramures

The tour begins at Hilton Garden Inn Bucharest Old Town at 8:00 am, setting out on a journey that spans some of Romania’s most iconic regions. It’s a well-structured itinerary that balances sightseeing with ample time for exploration, all led by a knowledgeable guide who shares insights into Romania’s history and culture.

Starting with a stop at Curtea de Arges Monastery, the tour immediately introduces travelers to Romania’s religious architecture. This Moorish-style Orthodox church is a significant faith site, and the brief visit leaves a lasting impression. Weather permitting, the route then takes travelers along the Transfagarasan Highway, one of Romania’s most famous scenic routes, offering spectacular views as it winds through the mountains towards Sibiu.

Exploring Sibiu’s Medieval Charm

In the afternoon, the group explores Sibiu, a city celebrated for its medieval architecture and vibrant old town. The walking tour covers the Big Square and Small Square, revealing the city’s history and its blend of Gothic and Baroque influences. The city’s compact size makes it easy to soak up its history and feel its authentic atmosphere.

Day 2: From Alba Iulia’s Union to Corvin Castle

The tour continues with a visit to Alba Iulia, a city with layers of history from Roman times to modern Romania. The citadel displays well-preserved fortifications, and the Orthodox Monastery offers a glimpse into the spiritual life of the region. The highlight is the significance of Alba Iulia as the site where Romania’s unification was formalized in 1918.

Post-lunch, travelers visit Corvin Castle, a striking medieval fortress symbolizing the region’s regal past and legends. The castle’s impressive Gothic architecture and history make it one of the region’s most iconic landmarks.

Moving to Maramures: Wooden Houses and Religious Heritage

In the late afternoon, the group travels to the Maramures region, arriving in Breb Village for accommodation in a traditional wooden house. This locale sets the stage for the next day’s immersion into local craftsmanship and spiritual sites.

Visiting the Monasteries and Wooden Churches of Maramures

Day 3 focuses on Maramures’ spiritual and cultural heritage. The tour’s first stop is at Barsana Monastery, famous for its wood carvings and religious significance. The guide explains the local woodworking traditions, which are a hallmark of the region.

Next, a visit to the Muzeul Tarancii Romane in Dragomiresti offers insight into village life and traditional belongings. The tour then visits the Wooden Churches of Maramures, admired for their architecture and uniqueness, with the local community still practicing traditional washing methods at a local whirlpool.

The day ends at the Merry Cemetery, where colorful, humorous tombstones challenge typical notions of death. The funny stories inscribed on gravestones reflect local humor and a different way of thinking about the afterlife.

Sighisoara: Dracula’s Birthplace

Day 4 takes travelers to the medieval town of Sighisoara, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the birthplace of Vlad Dracula. The cobbled streets, clock tower, and well-preserved fortifications create a fairy-tale setting. The guided walking tour covers key sights and offers insights into the town’s history, architecture, and folklore.

Biertan and Viscri: UNESCO Heritage Villages

Day 5 starts with a visit to Biertan Fortified Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site perched on a hill with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The guide explains its historical importance and unique features.

Following Biertan, the tour moves to Viscri Village, renowned for its preserved rural charm. The village’s fortified church and traditional houses attract Prince Charles, who has invested in the area, helping preserve local customs. Visitors can stroll through the village and, if desired, enjoy a traditional lunch (own expense).

In the afternoon, the group arrives in Brasov. A short walk explores Council Square, the Black Church, and the main gates, offering a taste of this vibrant Transylvanian city.

Day 6: Dracula’s Castle and the Peles Palace

The final day features a morning visit to Bran Castle, famously linked to Vlad Dracula. The 14th-century fortress provides a fascinating look at medieval military architecture and legends. Inside, the guide shares stories about Vlad Dracula and the castle’s history, while outside, the market offers opportunities to buy souvenirs.

Afterward, travel through the Carpathian Mountains to reach Sinaia, home to Peles Castle, often called the Pearl of the Carpathians. The palace, built in the 19th century, impresses with its well-preserved rooms and architecture. The guide offers a detailed look at its history and design before the tour concludes with the journey back to Bucharest.

An Honest Look at the Tour’s Strengths and Limitations

The private nature of this tour allows for a flexible and intimate experience, with all accommodations, breakfast, and dinners included. The use of a professional English-speaking guide ensures detailed explanations and cultural insights, making the trip accessible and engaging.

The inclusion of UNESCO sites, historic monasteries, and medieval towns highlights Romania’s diverse heritage. The scenic drives, particularly on the Transfagarasan Highway, offer memorable views, weather permitting. The small group size enhances comfort and opportunities for questions.

A key consideration is that entrance fees are paid separately, approximately 50 euros per person, so travelers should budget accordingly. The tour is designed for those with moderate physical fitness, given the walking at various stops and uneven terrain at some sites.

The seasonal availability of the Transfagarasan Road (open June-October) can affect the route, with an alternative route via Olt Valley used when closed. Travelers planning in the off-season should be aware of this possibility.

Experience and Suitability

This tour excels for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and those interested in rural traditions. The personalized guide service and focused itinerary make it a rich, immersive way to see Romania’s most iconic sights. It suits those who appreciate cultural storytelling, scenic drives, and authentic local experiences.

Given the well-rounded schedule and detailed stops, this tour offers a rundown of Romania’s highlights in just six days. While it covers a lot, it maintains a comfortable pace, making it suitable for most travelers with moderate fitness levels.

The Sum Up: A Complete Journey Through Romania’s Heartland

This 6-day private tour from Bucharest provides a balance of cultural richness, natural beauty, and legendary sites. The combination of medieval towns, UNESCO sites, wooden churches, and Dracula-related landmarks ensures a memorable experience that captures Romania’s diverse essence.

The tour’s small-group format and experienced guide are key strengths, making it both educational and personal. Travelers who enjoy history, architecture, and scenic drives will find this itinerary engaging and rewarding. The cost includes most essentials, but additional entrance fees and optional lunches should be accounted for.

While some sites involve walking on uneven surfaces, the overall physical demand remains moderate. The tour is best suited for adults with curiosity about Romania’s stories and traditions, and for those who want a well-organized, rundown of the country’s treasures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $1,387.73 per person, covering accommodations, breakfast, two dinners, and guided visits.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 6 days, with each day packed with visits, scenic drives, and cultural explorations.

Does the tour include entrance fees?
Entrance fees are not included; they are approximately 50 euros per person and payable separately.

What are the main highlights?
Highlights include Bran Castle, Dracula’s birthplace in Sighisoara, Wooden Churches of Maramures, Corvin Castle, and Peles Castle.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
It is best suited for travelers with moderate physical fitness due to walking at certain sites. The small group size and guide support a comfortable experience.

When can I travel on the Transfagarasan Highway?
The Highway is open from June to October; in the off-season, an alternative route via Olt Valley is used.

What kind of accommodation is included?
The tour includes two nights in Maramures in a traditional wooden house and arrangements for other nights are not specified but are part of the package.

Can I customize the tour?
The tour is private, allowing some flexibility in timing and stops, guided by the tour leader.

What is the guide’s role during the tour?
The English-speaking guide provides live commentary, historical context, and personalized insights at each stop, enhancing the experience.

How do I book this tour?
Bookings are available through the provider, One Excellence Tours, with proper confirmation and advance planning.