Your journey through Romania, the Land of Wonders, begins upon your arrival at Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport, where a warm welcome awaits you. A comfortable transfer will take you to your hotel, allowing you to settle in and unwind after your travels. From the very first moments, you will feel the vibrant energy of Bucharest, a city where grand Belle Époque architecture stands alongside modern landmarks, reflecting a past rich in history and transformation. As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful welcome dinner* that introduces you to Romania’s rich culinary heritage and warm hospitality.

This is just the beginning of an extraordinary adventure—a journey through captivating stories, breathtaking landscapes, and timeless traditions. Rest well—tomorrow, Bucharest will be ready to reveal its secrets!

*Available for those who arrive before 8 p.m.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance ~20 km; Transfer from Bucharest International Airport; Overnight stay at a hotel in Bucharest (-/-/D).

Leaving the lively avenues of Bucharest, we journey north into Wallachia, where history and legend meet at Curtea de Argeș. The monastery, built by Prince Neagoe Basarab in the 16th century and later chosen as the necropolis of Romania’s royal family, stands like a stone jewel of Romanian medieval art. After tasting local specialties from the Muntenia region, the road takes us across the Carpathians into the storybook landscapes of Transylvania.

In Sibiu, once known as Hermannstadt, the spirit of the Saxon settlers lingers in its grand squares, medieval fortifications, and winding streets. A guided walk reveals the Evangelical Church and the Bridge of Lies, immersing us in the city’s rich cultural heritage that earned it the title of European Capital of Culture in 2007.

As evening falls, we arrive in Sibiel, a village nestled in the “Marginimea Sibiului.” Here, the rhythm of rural life is alive in its painted glass icons, warm hospitality, and traditional dishes. Dinner with our hosts offers not just flavors but stories—a window into Transylvania’s enduring soul.

Highlights of the Day:

• Discover the Royal Necropolis at Curtea de Argeș Monastery, a masterpiece of sacred architecture.
• Explore the medieval charm of Sibiu, renowned for its Saxon heritage and captivating history.
• Experience authentic village life in Sibiel, complete with a traditional dinner and a homestay experience.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance ~340 km (5h); Overnight in Sibiel at homestay (B/L/D).

We leave Sibiel and journey across the Saxon lands of Transylvania. Our morning begins in Biertan, where the fortified church—protected by triple walls and towers—stands as one of Romania’s most impressive UNESCO monuments. Here, Gothic and Renaissance details blend in a place that once safeguarded both faith and community. Nearby, at the Via Transilvanica Terra Saxonum park, we pause at the stone marker symbolizing the cultural trail that connects the country’s historic regions.

The road then leads us to Sighișoara, the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler. Within its UNESCO-listed citadel, cobblestone lanes, ramparts, and brightly painted houses create the atmosphere of a true medieval gem. Our guided walk reveals the Clock Tower, the covered stairway, and the house where young Vlad was born—a reminder of the legends that echo through these streets. After some free time for lunch, we continue north.

A short stop in Târgu Mureș gives us a glimpse of the city’s architectural mix and cultural crossroads. By evening, we arrive in Bistrița, once a thriving Saxon trading center, where 15th-century merchant houses still line the main square. Here, on the edge of Dracula’s true domain, we settle in for the night and enjoy the town’s medieval charm.

Highlights of the Day: 

• Step inside Biertan’s UNESCO-listed fortified church, a medieval Saxon stronghold and wander through the historic streets of Sighișoara, the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler. 
• Admire the Austro-Hungarian charm of Târgu Mureș, a city rich in culture and elegance and experience the haunting allure of Bistrița, a town forever linked to the Dracula legend.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance ~280 km (4h); Overnight in Bistrița at hotel (B/-/-).

We leave Bistrița behind and travel east toward Bukovina, a land of legends and faith, renowned worldwide for its painted monasteries, all of which are recognized by UNESCO. Crossing through the landscapes,  the journey leads us into the gentle hills and forests of northern Romania. Along the way, we pause for a traditional lunch, savoring the hearty flavors of Bukovina’s cuisine.

In the afternoon, we arrive at Moldovița Monastery, a gem of Moldavian medieval art, whose frescoes still radiate vivid colors after centuries. Here, the Via Transilvanica trail also has a terminal point, linking history and pilgrimage in one place. Nearby, we visit the workshop of Letiția Orșivschi, a master of painted eggs, where ancient craft blends with personal artistry.

The day closes with a visit to Voroneț Monastery, famed as the “Sistine Chapel of the East.” Its brilliant blue frescoes and timeless imagery vividly capture the spirit of Bukovina’s heritage. As evening falls, we settle in Gura Humorului, enjoying dinner and rest in the heart of this serene region.

Highlights of the Day: 

• Moldovița Monastery – UNESCO treasure of Moldavian medieval art
• Traditional Bukovina crafts – visit to Letiția Orșivschi’s painted egg workshop
• Voroneț Monastery – the “Sistine Chapel of the East” with iconic blue frescoes

Travel Details: Expected travel distance ~245 km (5h); Overnight in Gura Humorului at hotel (B/L/-)

Leaving Gura Humorului, we travel south through the villages of Moldova, where wooden houses and rural life preserve a timeless charm. Our first stop is in Țărpești, at the home of Nicolae Popa, a renowned folk artist whose life’s work gave birth to a remarkable collection of traditional masks, sculptures, icons, and naïve art — a vivid window into Romania’s popular culture.

We then visit the Agapia Monastery, set in a peaceful valley and known for its painted interiors and strong spiritual atmosphere. From here, the road winds through the dramatic scenery of the Bicaz Gorges, where towering limestone cliffs rise on both sides of the narrow passage. Weather permitting, we take a short walk through this spectacular natural wonder before reaching Lacu Roșu (Red Lake), a mountain lake born from legend. Here we stop for lunch, savoring the flavors of traditional Hungarian-influenced cuisine.

In the afternoon, we continue westward into Transylvania, arriving in Brașov, one of Romania’s most beautiful medieval towns. After settling into our hotel for two nights, the evening is free to explore and enjoy dinner at leisure.

Highlights of the Day:

• Visit the Nicolae Popa Museum in Târpești, which houses an impressive collection of folk masks and naive art.
• Explore the sacred beauty of Neamț and the Agapia Monastery, both of which are significant spiritual and artistic landmarks.
• Explore the dramatic Bicaz Gorges, a breathtaking natural wonder of towering limestone walls. 

Travel Details: Expected travel distance ~370 km (6h); Overnight in Brașov at hotel (B/L/-)

The morning begins with a guided tour of Brașov, one of Transylvania’s most important medieval cities, founded by the Saxons. We explore the city’s fortifications, including the Black Tower and the Weavers’ Bastion, which were once vital to its defense. In Council Square, surrounded by colorful houses, we pause at the Via Transilvanica marker, a symbol of the cultural trail that crosses Romania. The visit continues with stops at the Ecaterina Gate, the Gothic Black Church—the largest between Istanbul and Vienna—and the Orthodox St. Nicholas Church with its rich frescoes and historic school museum.

We then drive to Hărman (or nearby Prejmer) to explore its fortified church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that sheltered villagers for centuries behind its imposing walls. After lunch at a local restaurant, the journey continues to the legendary Bran Castle. Built in 1377 on a rocky hill to defend the mountain passes, it later became associated with Vlad the Impaler and was immortalized as “Dracula’s Castle.” In the 20th century, Queen Marie transformed it into her summer residence, and today it houses a fine collection of medieval art. At the Via Transilvanica Bran Park, we visit a monument carved from andesite dedicated to the beloved Queen Marie. We return to Brașov in the evening.

Highlights of the Day:

• Brașov city tour – Black Church, Council Square, fortifications, and St. Nicholas Church 
• Hărman/Prejmer Fortified Church – UNESCO Saxon stronghold
• Bran Castle – fortress of legends, later residence of Queen Marie

Travel Details: Expected travel distance ~90 km (2h); Overnight in Brașov at hotel (B/L/-)

This morning, we cross the Carpathians to reach Sinaia, often called the “Pearl of the Carpathians.” Here, we visit the splendid Peleș Castle, once the summer residence of Romania’s royal family. Surrounded by forests and mountain peaks, the castle dazzles with its fairytale towers and extraordinary interiors, housing one of Europe’s richest collections of arms and armor.

We then continue south along the historic Royal Road toward Bucharest. After lunch, we explore the monumental Palace of the Parliament, built between 1984 and 1989. It is the largest building in Europe and the second largest in the world. Its immense halls, marble staircases, carved woodwork, and bronze details reflect both grandeur and paradox. A panoramic tour of Bucharest follows, revealing a capital where grand boulevards, communist architecture, and Belle Époque facades coexist.

The day concludes with a walk through the old historic center and a festive farewell dinner at Bucharest’s most famous brasserie, where traditional dishes and a fin-de-siècle atmosphere provide a fitting end to our Romanian journey. Overnight in Bucharest.

Highlights of the Day: 

• Sinaia - known as the “Pearl of the Carpathians” – a charming mountain resort renowned for its stunning natural scenery, crisp alpine air, and rich royal heritage, making it a favored retreat for Romanian nobility.
• Peleș Castle - a Neo-Renaissance masterpiece, was once the summer residence of King Carol I. This fairy-tale castle captivates visitors with its richly decorated interiors, intricate wood carvings, stained-glass windows, and an impressive collection of weapons and armor.
• The Palace of the Parliament in Bucharest is an architectural marvel. This colossal structure, the second-largest administrative building in the world, captivates visitors with its opulent interiors, marble staircases, and grand chandeliers, symbolizing both power and extravagance.

Travel Details: Expected travel distance ~180 km (4h); Overnight in Bucharest (B/L/D).

After an unforgettable journey through Romania's rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and timeless traditions, the moment has come to say farewell. Enjoy a leisurely morning in Bucharest, depending on your departure schedule. Perhaps take one last stroll through the city’s charming streets or savor a quiet coffee in a historic café while reflecting on the incredible moments of the past week.

At the scheduled time, a comfortable transfer will take you to Bucharest International Airport, marking the conclusion of your adventure. As you depart, carry with you the memories of medieval citadels, fairytale castles, painted monasteries, and the warm hospitality of the people who make Romania truly special.

Until next time, farewell, and safe travels!

‍Travel Details: Transfer to Bucharest International Airport for departure; (B/-/-)