Bucharest: 8-Day Transylvania & Moldavian Monasteries Tour

Key Points

• Includes visits to iconic castles: Bran Castle, often linked to Dracula lore, and Peles Castle, a royal summer retreat.
• Explores UNESCO-listed painted monasteries of Moldova, such as Voronet and Moldovita, famous for their vivid frescoes.
• Visits historic Saxon cities: Sighisoara, the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, along with Sibiu and Brasov, known for their medieval charm.
• Comfortable logistics: 8-day journey with 7 nights in 3- and 4-star hotels, guided tours, transportation, and a traditional carriage ride.
• Includes a festive dinner and folklore show in Bucharest, adding local culture to the experience.
• Cost-effective: Priced at $657 per person, with half-board included, making it a convenient and accessible option for visiting Romania’s highlights.

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Exploring Bucharest and the Start of the Adventure

The 8-day Transylvania & Moldavian Monasteries Tour begins in Bucharest, Romania’s lively capital. The tour starts with a welcome dinner in the evening, offering a chance to meet the guide and fellow travelers. The first day provides a relaxed introduction, with hotel accommodation and the chance to settle in after your flight.

From the second day, the journey leads into the scenic Olt River Valley, where a stop at Cozia Monastery introduces visitors to Romania’s religious heritage. This monastery is among the country’s oldest religious sites. The day continues with a visit to Sibiu, a city that was a European Capital of Culture, renowned for its charming squares, Liars Bridge, and the Orthodox Cathedral. The day concludes in Bazna, a town known for its thermal waters and relaxing atmosphere, where overnight accommodation is provided.

Discovering Saxon Heritage in Biertan and Sighisoara

On the third day, the tour explores Saxon Transylvania with visits to Biertan Fortified Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its impressive architecture. Later, the medieval streets of Sighisoara come into focus; this town is famous as the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler. Travelers walk through streets lined with Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance buildings, with plenty of photo opportunities.

In the evening, a carriage ride takes visitors to Bazna’s fortified church, offering a traditional mode of transportation that enhances the historical ambiance of the day. Returning to Bazna for the night, travelers enjoy a relaxed pace and the chance to reflect on the day’s discoveries.

Transition from Transylvania to Bucovina with Cultural Stops

Day four marks the move into Bucovina, with scenic stops en route such as Targu Mures, featuring its grand Orthodox Cathedral and Culture Palace. The journey continues with a visit to Bistrita, home to Romania’s tallest church tower, adding a Gothic touch to the day’s exploration.

The afternoon is dedicated to appreciating the Moldovita Monastery, famous for its vibrant frescoes and religious art. The day ends in Campulung Moldovenesc, where the peaceful surroundings set the scene for the next chapter of the trip.

Visiting the UNESCO-Listed Painted Monasteries of Moldova

On day five, the tour visits Voronet Monastery, renowned for its intense blue frescoes depicting biblical scenes. The monastery’s artwork is among Romania’s most celebrated, drawing admiration for its vivid colors and intricate designs.

Next, travelers drive through the Bicaz Gorge, a striking natural formation, and stop at Red Lake, formed in 1838, whose calm waters reflect the surrounding mountains. The journey into eastern Transylvania culminates with overnight stays in Predeal, a mountain town offering crisp air and scenic views.

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Exploring Medieval Cities in Brasov and Harman

Day six is dedicated to Brasov, a city founded by the Teutonic Knights. Highlights include the Black Church, a Gothic masterpiece, and the medieval city walls and towers. Visitors stroll along Rope Street, one of the narrowest streets in Europe, and soak in the lively atmosphere of this historic city.

Later, the tour visits Harman, a village with a fortified church used historically as a shelter for locals. The evening provides free time in Predeal, where the group stays overnight amid mountain scenery.

The Legends of Dracula and the Royal Peles Castle

Day seven features a visit to Bran Castle, famously associated with Dracula legends, although historically more of a fortress than a residence. The castle’s dramatic setting and architecture make it a compelling stop.

Afterward, the route leads to Sinaia, home to Peles Castle, recognized for its stunning exterior and historic significance as a former royal summer residence. The day concludes with a transfer back to Bucharest, where the trip ends with a festive dinner accompanied by folklore performances in Hanul lui Manuc, a historic inn.

Final Day in Bucharest and Departure

The eighth day offers a guided tour of Bucharest’s key landmarks, including the Palace of Parliament, Village Museum, and Triumphal Arch. This walk through the city provides a final chance to appreciate Romania’s capital’s grand architecture and cultural sites before transferring to the airport.

Practicalities and Inclusions

The tour includes 7 nights in 3- and 4-star hotels, with half-board meals and the services of a professional guide fluent in English, Italian, German, or Spanish. Transportation is by modern coach or minibus, ensuring a comfortable journey throughout.

A special feature of this tour is the traditional carriage ride, adding a charming local flavor. The logistics are well-managed, with luggage handling services at hotels and a festive dinner in Bucharest that offers a taste of local hospitality.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour appeals most to those interested in Romania’s castles, monasteries, and medieval towns, and who enjoy a paced itinerary that balances sightseeing with some culture. The focus on UNESCO sites and the rich historical architecture makes it particularly attractive for history and architecture enthusiasts.

While the tour covers many highlights, travelers should be prepared for moderate walking during city explorations and visits to monasteries and towns. The overall experience is well-suited for those seeking an organized, comprehensive introduction to Romania’s top sights in a manageable eight days.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking through historic towns, monasteries, and castle grounds, which may include uneven surfaces. It’s best suited for travelers with moderate mobility.

What languages are available for the guided tour?
Guides speak English, Italian, German, and Spanish, allowing for comfortable communication depending on group composition.

Are meals included during the entire trip?
The tour includes half-board, meaning breakfast and dinner are covered every day, with the exception of personal expenses.

What is the price of the tour?
The entire 8-day experience costs $657 per person, offering good value considering the accommodation, guided tours, and activities included.

How do I book or find the meeting point?
The meeting point is at a bus marked with the Karpaten Turism logo. Booking can be done through the provider’s platform, with options for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

This 8-day Transylvania & Moldavian Monasteries Tour offers an engaging and well-organized way to explore Romania’s historic castles, monasteries, and charming medieval towns, all with the comfort of guided logistics and local hospitality.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby