Romania: private 12 days tour with bed and breakfast

Nestled between the vibrant capital of Bucharest and the lively city of Cluj-Napoca, the Private 12 Days Tour of Romania offers a comprehensive journey through some of the country’s most captivating regions. For $3,026 per person, this tour includes 11 nights’ accommodation, breakfast, private transport, and entrance tickets to major attractions, making it an ideal choice for travelers seeking an in-depth, personalized experience.

This trip stands out with its blend of cultural sightseeing, off-the-beaten-path visits, and meaningful contact with locals at their homes. Led by expert guides, the tour accommodates those who enjoy exploring Romania’s diverse heritage and landscapes at a comfortable pace. Keep in mind, this journey is best suited for those comfortable with walking and who appreciate a mix of historical, cultural, and natural sights.

Key Points

• Includes 11 nights’ accommodation at 3-4 star hotels or guest houses with breakfast
• Visits top attractions like Pele Castle, Bran Castle, Sighisoara Citadel, and Bucovina monasteries
• Experience local life through encounters with traditional farmers and artisans
• Off-the-beaten-path stops such as Vagri villages and craftsmen workshops
• Private group tour led by knowledgeable guides in English and French
• Price of $3,026 offers a detailed exploration over 12 days, with flexibility in itinerary modifications

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Starting in Bucharest: The Capital’s Highlights

The tour begins with a welcome at Bucharest Airport and a city tour of the Romanian capital. Travelers visit the Parliament Palace, renowned as one of the largest administrative buildings in the world, and explore the historic Lipscani district, filled with lively cafes, shops, and old architecture. The Village Museum offers an open-air look at traditional Romanian dwellings, providing insight into rural life.

An optional visit to Ceaușescu’s Mansion can be included, giving a glimpse into Romania’s communist past. This initial day sets the stage for understanding the country’s complex history and vibrant urban life.

From Bucharest to the Mountain Castle of Sinaia and Bran

On the second day, the journey takes travelers to Pele Castle and its gardens in Sinaia, a fairy-tale fortress surrounded by lush landscapes. Next, Bran Castle, often linked with Dracula lore, awaits exploration, with its dramatic setting atop a mountain. The itinerary includes an overnight stay in Brașov, a city known for its medieval walls and charming old town.

Optional visits here include the Prejmer fortified church or the Libearty Bear Sanctuary, offering deeper engagement with Romania’s cultural and natural treasures.

Discovering Brașov and Sibiu’s Medieval Charm

The third and fourth days revolve around Brașov’s Old Town, where travelers see the Black Church and explore the Câra monastery ruins. The city’s cobblestone streets and historical architecture make it a favorite stop. Continuing into Sibiu, the tour highlights Sibiu Old Town, characterized by its squares, merchant houses with distinctive dormers, and cultural landmarks like Brukenthal Palace and the Evangelical Cathedral.

A walk across the Liars Bridge provides a leisurely break, and optional visits include the Astra Village Museum or a stroll through Rinari village to appreciate rural traditions.

Visiting Biertan, Sighisoara, and Saxon Villages

The fifth and sixth days take the journey into Biertan’s fortified church, famous for its divorce/reconciliation room, a unique feature reflecting local history. In Sighisoara Citadel, climbers can ascend the School’s Covered Staircase and visit the Astronomical Clock Tower, immersing in medieval architecture.

Optional village visits include Mlâncrav, the only remaining truly Saxon village, or Viscri, known for its well-preserved fortified church, offering authentic glimpses into rural Saxon life.

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Crossing the Carpathians: Bicaz Gorges and Monastic Wonders

Day seven involves crossing the Bicaz Gorges, known for their dramatic cliffs and scenic views. The tour continues to Agapia monastery, a sprawling religious community with 300 nuns, offering insight into monastic life and local traditions.

An optional stop at Piatra Neam features Europe’s only wooden synagogue built half underground, providing a rare architectural perspective.

Exploring Bucovina’s Monasteries and Iconic Frescoes

Days eight and nine focus on the incredible Bucovina monasteries, including Vorone, known as the Sistine Chapel of the East for its spectacular Last Judgment fresco, and Sucevia, often cited as the most impressive. The visit also includes Vama painted egg collection and Marginea’s black pottery workshop.

Additional optional activities feature the Moldovia steam train or the Palma zip line, both offering adventurous sides to this scenic region.

The Deep Cultural Roots of Maramureș

Days nine and ten take travelers into Maramureș, famous for its wooden churches, water mills, and traditional customs. Visitors watch devilish masks being crafted in Scel and see vegetal-dyed rugs in Botiza. The Bârsana wooden church stands out as a significant religious site with historical carvings.

Local life comes into focus through interactions with farmers, visits to Breb village, and tasting fruit brandy in Sârbi. A traditional lunch complements the culture.

The History and Heritage of Sighetu Marmației

The penultimate day includes a visit to the Memorial of Victims of Communism and the Elie Wiesel Museum, offering a sobering look at Romania’s 20th-century history. In Sighetu Marmației, the Merry Cemetery and the tallest wooden church in the world provide compelling sights. Optional visits include village museums and synagogues, deepening the understanding of local multicultural history.

Final Stops in Cluj-Napoca and Departure

The tour concludes with scenic stops at a trout farm in Mara and the St. Stephen’s Tower in Baia Mare. In Cluj-Napoca, travelers explore St. Michael’s Church and Unirii Square, the city’s central hub. An optional visit to Turda salt mine offers a subterranean adventure, though this is not included in the standard package.

The tour ends here, with transportation to your hotel in Cluj-Napoca, ready to reflect on a richly layered exploration of Romania’s regions.

Romania’s 12-Day Private Tour: An In-Depth Cultural Journey

This tailored trip offers a combination of Romania’s most significant sights and lesser-known villages, perfect for travelers wanting a detailed, flexible experience. The private format ensures personalized attention, and the inclusion of local contacts at homes adds authenticity.

While the itinerary covers a lot, some optional visits require extra costs, and last-minute changes are possible due to site closures or weather. The comfortable accommodations and breakfasts make it convenient, and the expert guides ensure informative commentary.

This tour is well-suited for those interested in history, architecture, and rural traditions, and who enjoy engaging with local communities. It balances sightseeing with meaningful cultural encounters, delivering a comprehensive view of Romania.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, as some walks and site visits involve uneven terrain.

What’s included in the price of $3,026?
The price covers 12 days of private guided touring, 11 nights’ accommodation, breakfast, transportation, entrance tickets (excluding optional sites), and traditional lunch on day 10.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for changing travel plans.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for walking around cities, monasteries, and villages. No pets or smoking are allowed during the tour.

This 12-day private trip through Romania promises a rich exploration of landscapes, culture, and history, with enough flexibility and local contact to make it a memorable and insightful experience.

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