We are a Bucharest-based company with more than 10 years experience in the touring and travel industry. We organize private guided tours all over Romania and offer our guests full flexibility and personal decision in crafting a unique tour that suits their wishes. Embark with us in a journey that will take you through spectacular landscapes, traditional villages or modern cities. You will discover Medieval castles, fairy-tale places, the impressive Carpathian Mountains and amazing wildlife.
We will get back to you with a confirmation as soon as possible.
Crafted Tours Romania is a local company with more than 10 years experience in the touring and hospitality industry. We put the foundation of this private company as an alternative to the big bus tours, willing to offer our guests full flexibility and personal decision in organizing a tour in Romania. We craft tours based on your specific wishes, hoping to deliver a memorable experience in Romania as a final result.
During these 10 years we have made strong connections with hotels, restaurants and museums, thus we will recommend you what we have experienced. Of course, we also have a licence and legal accreditation from the National Ministry of Tourism in Romania.
Our company organizes exclusively private tours, all over Romania. We feel happy and honored to organize tours in Romania, with people from all over the world. What can be more beautiful and energizing than visiting the beautiful landscapes of the Carpathian mountains, discovering the rural and authentic life in the German Saxon villages, medieval citadels, castles, taking a tour in the wildlife of the Danube's Delta, with its endangered species of birds, or just exploring the urban and modern life of Romanian cities and Bucharest, the capital.
We offer travel advice for anyone who is planning a trip to Romania. Avoid the hassle of finding how, where or what is the best option for you by simply asking us for a recommendation. We would be honored to offer you any kind of information. Romania is waiting for you!
We know and love Romania. We do our job with passion and dedication. We have good English speaking guides. They are professional, friendly and attentive with our guests. Our cars are clean, air conditioned and safe!
We offer private tours with a personal touch. Our website presents a selection of tours we have done so far, but you can make your own itinerary: choose the time that is convenient to you, decide what would you like to see and we will craft a tour especially for you.
At the end, we have competitive rates and we offer good value for your money.
Toni Tatar
Crafted Tours Romania
office@crafted-tours-romania.com
004 0727 36 86 56
Open daily: 08.00 - 23.00
Georgiana from UK: Would highly recommend this experience! Toni Tatar is super knowledgeable, really nice and passionate about touring, as well as accommodating to our questions and interests I.e. we asked him to incorporate more details about communism in the tour, which he gladly did and adapted the route as well to this request. Also we got lots of other recommendations from him regarding other spots of interest in Bucharest (including restaurants for example) as well as for the rest of our trip within Romania. Really enjoyed it and would recommend it further for sure!
Alexander from Serbia: It was very Informative. The guide is friendly and precise. I recommend it for anyone. You should definitely try it when you come to Bucharest.
Jeroen from the Netherlands: "Great way to get to know Bucharest! hat a great way of walking through Bucharest. Manuela knows so many facts about the city and she takes the time to show them to you. We had a tour as a couple and she answered all if our questions. Tips for restaurants, places to visit and shops to go to, she knows it all. We highly recommend this tour to all people who visit Bucharest and want an honest opinion about the city and his residents."
Sarah from UK: "A fabulous experience. Manuela presented the tour in a really friendly and informative manner. We learnt so much from her about Bucharest and it's history. She was also incredibly thoughtful taking care of my 83 year old father in the tour, incorporating small rest stops when needed and even joined us for a cup of tea. I would really recommend this tour as it leaves you feeling more connected to the city and it's wonderful culture. Thank you so much."
Jonathan from USA: Toni Tatar was a great tour guide! We went to all the amazing spots in Bucharest. Toni had so much knowledge about the whole town. He even hung out with us after the tour in old town Bucharest.
Maria from Cyprus: Superb!! Very well known guidance. TONI Tatar is a very educated and friendly guide. We saw many important landmarks and learned a lot. I truly recommend it. You will not regret it!
Pat from USA: "The tour is designed specifically for your needs. The pick up time was adjusted when my flight was delayed and I was able to indicate my special interests. The guides humored me and let me have a drink in a hookah bar because it was something I wanted to do. When I showed interest in a topic they were very knowledgeable and expanded on it."
Lou from Australia: "I took this driving tour with Toni Tatar to get an over-view of Bucharest. Toni has very good knowledge, is easy to communicate with in English and is very helpful. The tour was made very easy, pleasant and informative. I would recommend this tour."
Linda D. from UK: "Myself and friend stayed at the Rembrandt hotel, were Toni Tatar very kindly organised two private tours one was a combined city tour with the Communist and the other to Bran castle, Pele's and Brasov, both were excellent, got to see and do everything we wanted, was tailored to our needs and lovely personal service from both Toni and Marius. Would highly recommend this company."
Carmen S. from Australia: "We had no idea what to expect, but what we got was one of the highlights of the trip. Picture a vicious megalomaniac with access to unlimited budget. Add a wife who was worse than he was. Then follow their demise by starting at the place where he gave his final speech. Toni Tatar, our guide, brought a taping of the event and so standing where the protesters were made us feel like we were there. Next we saw their Spring Palace, with a tour of the tackiest 50 room mansion, which was where they lived. Finally, we went to the second largest building in the world, which they were building to replace the mansion for some $8 billion: eight stories above ground, six below of Stalinesque. It was so large, we couldn't get the entire building in our picture. Seeing the 1800 chandeliers (actually you only can see a fraction of them) the ballroom, their studies the size of basketball stadiums, and the auditorium for operas and speeches, gave you enough of a taste for what was planned. Toni had arranged it, took us to the locations, and gave us a background so we could understand what happened. He also helped us get to and from the airport and buy train tickets. We were impressed with his concern for the safety and well being of his clients. We give kudos to him and urge others to contact him if you want a top notch experience for a reasonable price."
Gal from UK: My wife and I booked the trip on a Beautiful Saturday and it was well worth it. Our guide Marius picked us up promptly at 8:00 in the morning - Car was very clean and comfortable. Marius was a first rate guide that provided us with much information on Romania and the places we visited. He went out of his way to get my wife and I to the front of line ups for our tours. Marius thank you - you are our new Best Friend in Romania. We first visited the Peles castle with its ornate and furnished interior. Then off for lunch at a nice restaurant chosen by Marius in Bran. Then a short walk to the Bran/Dracula castle perched on a rocky out crop. Very nice interior and grounds - the favourite of Queen Mary - fascinating family history. Then we were off to Braşov for a quick old town center tour and a relaxing beer in the main square. It is a long full day trip and at the mercy of traffic and construction - we were delayed on way home due to a serious accident. All in all a very worthwhile trip that all should make when visiting Bucharest/Romania. Now the following day we are off to see the Bon Jovi Concert In Center of Bucharest. Then off through Central Romania to Arad in the North - this is a beautiful country with lots to see and do.
Curri from USA: Had a great tour with Toni Tatar. Toni was very attentive and went out of his way to make sure we enjoyed the tour. He is very knowledgeable about Romania and shared a lot of information with us. I think one of my favorite parts of the trip was eating lunch with Toni after our visit to Bran castle. Toni recommended some delicious traditional dishes and we got a chance to ask a lot of questions and learn so much about this beautiful country.
Giuseppe from Italy: Toni gave us an amazing tour! We came to Romania as part of our honeymoon and we couldn't have been with a better guide to make our trip unforgettable! Toni Tatar truly does care about sharing the history and culture of Romania ! And went above and beyond to make sure we were comfortable and having a good time! Would 1000% recommend. Thanks Toni again for everything!
Soe from USA: Toni Tatar was an excellent tour guide. He was awesome throughout the whole tour and not only that he went out of his way to arrange a tour on the following day. He was friendly, knowledgeable and kind. He not only took us to all the places but he made sure we were comfortable. This was one of the best tours I’ve taken. He also show us the most famous dessert in Romania.
Catherine V.: "It was wonderful! Toni Tatar was our guide and it was a wonderful visit tour! It's easy to communicate with him in English. What a crazy day, he knows so much thing about Romania, I was totally facinated! He is completly passionate! We really appreciate this tour, it was an amazing experience! Toni and his colleagues are so friendly and you can feel how they love to do the best for their customers. It's one of our best memories and you hope to come back as soon as possible for discovering more and more about Romania!"
Christopher from Chicago: "A day well spent! While this ends up being a long day, it's well worth it to have a driver/guide to maximize your time in Transylvania. Our guide, Marius, was great. Very friendly, helpful and easy going. He picked us up on time at 8 am at our hotel and took us to Pelisor and Peles castles, then on to Bran Castle for a nice lunch and then tour, and finally to Brasov, where we walked around for about 45 minutes. We had a few stops along the way at Romania's amazing petrol stations to stretch, get coffee, use the toilet, etc. Note that the drive both coming and going can be rather long due to traffic (it took us 3:45 hrs to get back from Brasov), so bring something to amuse yourself in the car."
Vicky from UK: "We took a pirvate tour to the two castles in Transylvania: the bran castle and the peles castle. We also visited Brasov. The car was very comfortable and clean and our driver-guide Marius was very professional. Best impressions."
WalGal from Toronto: "My wife and I booked the trip on a Beautiful Saturday and it was well worth it. Our guide Marius picked us up promptly at 8:00 in the morning - Car was very clean and comfortable. Marius was a first rate guide that provided us with much information on Romania and the places we visited. He went out of his way to get my wife and I to the front of line ups for our tours. Marius thank you - you are our new Best Friend in Romania. We first visited the Peles castle with its ornate and furnished interior. Then off for lunch at a nice restaurant chosen by Marius in Bran. Then a short walk to the Bran/Dracula castle perched on a rocky out crop. Very nice interior and grounds - the favourite of Queen Mary - fascinating family history. Then we were off to Braşov for a quick old town center tour and a relaxing beer in the main square. It is a long full day trip and at the mercy of traffic and construction- we were delayed on way home due to a serious accident. All in all a very worthwhile trip that all should make when visiting Bucharest/Romania."
Fannye from Sweeden: We went on a private tour to the back sea with sweet Toni Tatar. Toni was a very nice and passionette guide. We went around Constanta and then to the beach.We had lunch with toni in constanta and it was oneof the best trips of our lives.
Edmundo from New Mexico: "Highly Recommend Toni's Crafted Tours Romania! My wife and I found Crafted Tours on Tripadvisor and based on reviews we read and a phone call I had with Toni Tatar, the owner, we pre-booked this tour with him a month before we left for on our trip. The morning of our tour Toni met us in our hotel lobby and we took off in a very clean late model SUV for a pleasant 2+ hour drive to Constanta and the Black Sea. Toni is very articulate, patient, informative and pleasant. The tour was great but Toni Tatar made it that much more enjoyable. He is trustworthy and a man of his word."
Melissa from USA: We loved our trip with Toni Tatar. It was a wonderful day on the Danube and Toni was very knowledgeableand understanding of our shenanigans! We would definitely recommend.
Marija from Newcastle: "First rate private tour with Toni Tatar. My husband and I enjoyed a 3 day tour of Transylvania with Toni. What an incredible experience. Toni is a great guide very knowledgeable, kind and friendly and it was a great introduction to our first visit to Romania. We visited Peles Castle, from the outside it looks like a grand Bavarian castle. The rooms are lavishly decorated. We then went onto Bran castle which does look like a Vampire's home with its turrets and steep stairs. We stayed overnight in Brasov a lovely medieval town. On the second day we visited Prejmer fortified church, now on UNESCO'S world Heritage list. On to Sighisoara, the citadel is spectacular on a rocky outcrop. Its the birthplace of Vlad Tepes, the implayer. We stayed overnight in Sibiu. The following day we did a walking tour of Sibiu with its lovely painted houses, churches, nice local restaurants and welcoming atmosphere. On the way back to Bucharest visited Cozia monastery the earliest example of Byzantine architecture in Wallachia. Toni was a safe and careful driver, the car was very comfortable and clean. Toni gave us tips on what to eat and where, which was very helpful. I would definitely recommend booking your tours with Toni Tatar. Thanks once again, we thoroughly enjoyed our time with you."
1World2TravelOn from Washington DC: "Perfect Two Days! We arranged for Toni to take us on a two day tour of Transylvania. Toni Tatar is very knowledgeable and arranged for an amazing trip. The visits to Peles and Bran Castles when off without a hitch. He arranged a hotel for us in Sighisora that was quaint and perfect. The next day we visited several of the fortified churches in the area on our way back to Bucharest. Book with Toni, you will have a great time."
Richart T.: "Painted Monasteres of Bucovina and transyvsnia. Toni Tatar did an excellent job. He was a pleasant traveling companion. He did everything to make the trip enjoyable for me."
Gretts from USA: We spent 4 full days with Toni Tatar guiding us through Transylvania and Bucharest. We had long days but he managed to get us to everything we wanted to see in the area. He’s a very well informed guide and helpful in every instance. I also found him to be organized and his itinerary well planned to maximize the time of our short visit. Overall, full recommendation for you to use his services.
Charlie H.: "Incredible five day tour of Transylvania. From medieval castles, fortresses, citadels and wonderful tours of ancient cities and churches - virtually every place on the itinerary was absolutely fantastic. Our guide, Tony, was extremely accommodating and we felt like "family" throughout the entire time. His knowledge of the history amazed us and the sites visited were thoroughly explained - we learned a lot from the experience and couldn't have had a better guide. He was always on time, up-beat and eager to share the many facets of Romania's history with us, spanning the early days of the region up to and including videos of the beginning of the revolution of 1989 when the communist government was overthrown. Would highly recommend this tour. If you only have a week to spend in Romania - this is the best bang for your buck."
Sightsee400243: "Our trip with Crafted Tours Romania exceeded our expectations. When we booked the tour, we were unsure how many of the sites would be open in January, and were pleasantly pleased that almost all of them were open and accessible. For the few that were not, Toni Tatar our tour guide, substituted other sites that he knew we would enjoy. Toni's knowledge gave us a greater appreciation of the historical significance of all the sites we toured. And with backgound info from Toni, we enjoyed evenings on our exploring Brasov, Sibiu and Sighisoara. We would highly recommend this tour and Toni."
Avengers74 from Naples: "A paradise! Fabulous place to spend a whole day in total relaxation away from the urban chaos. The outdoor swimming pool is beautiful, especially in winter because you could immerse yourself in the hot water surrounded by snow. The restaurant service is also excellent, good food at a good price. Too bad that with children under 16 you cannot access all areas."
To book your tour please choose one of the following methods:
• send us a message via the contact form of the tour.
• send us an email at
office@crafted-tours-romania.com mentioning the tour you want to book, dates, and number of people.
• call us at
004 0727 36 86 56.
2. If I book a tour online when and how will I receive the tour confirmation?
We confirm all the bookings by email in 24 hours' time. If you didn't get your tour confirmation on email please check your spam, bulk or junk folders. If you still don't have it, please call us or email us.
3. Can I make changes to an existing booking?
Depending on the change you want to make we will try to make everything possible to make it happen. For example, if you want to change the tour dates, we will make the changes depending on the availability of the guides in those
periods or if you want to change the itinerary, we will gladly work with you in finding the best alternative. However, it's best to always let us know about any change you would like to make to the tour as much in advance as possible.
Major alterations of itinerary that imply hotel reservation changes are subject to rooms availability. Please note that in the case of last-minute hotel cancellations, hotels charge penalties that can be up to 100% of the
reservation cost. Additional costs generated by on-tour changes will be billed separately.
4. How do I pay for the tour I booked?
For Bucharest Tours you will pay in cash to the guide on the day of the tour.
For day-trips and multi-day tours a minimum of 25% deposit is required at the moment of booking. This can be done by credit / debit card.
The rest of the amount can be settled by the following payment methods:
• Cash (Euro, Dollars, Pounds or local money RON) - paid to the guide on the day of the tour.
• Bank Transfer (Euro or local money RON) – at least 7 days before the tour day.
• Credit/debit Card (+4% transaction fee) – anytime, including the day of the tour.
• PayPal (+4% transaction fee) - anytime, including the day of the tour.
5. How can I cancel my booking?
In order to cancel your booking please send us an email at office@crafted-tours-romania.com. If you do not get a confirmation of your cancellation within 24 hours by email please call us. We are not responsible if your email message did not reach us.
6. How much will I be charged if I cancel my booking?
Terms of cancellation and penalty fees for multi-days tours:
• Cancellation received less than 49 days = 25% penalty on total amount.
• Cancellation received less than 35 days = 50% penalty on total amount.
• Cancellation received less than 21 days = 100% penalty on total amount.
Terms of cancellation and penalty fees for days trips and city tours:
• Cancellation received less than 7 days = 25% penalty on total amount.
• Cancellation received less than 5 days = 50% penalty on total amount.
• Cancellation received less than 3 days = 100% penalty on total amount.
7. Will tours be cancelled in case of bad weather?
We rarely cancel a tour because of the weather conditions (very heavy snow during the winter). In such unforeseen cases, we offer a full refund.
8. How do I meet with the guide?
Depending on the type of the tour you booked you either meet with the guide at a certain meeting point or you get picked up at the hotel.
For Bucharest walking tours depending on the tour we usually have a meeting point (in front of the Romanian Athenaeum or in front of the National Museum of Romanian History).
For tours outside Bucharest or Bucharest tours which require a car and driver the pick-up and drop-off from a central hotel is included in the price and will be offered.
However, when receiving the tour confirmation, we will give you all the details regarding how you meet with your guide and, also, it's good to know we are flexible on this point in case you want to make certain modifications.
9. Are the entrance fees (at the museum / castles etc.) included in the tour price?
Depending on the type of the tour some have the entrances includes and some not. You can find this information by checking the "What's included" section of each tour listed on our website.
In case you want a full personalized tour please mention when contacting us if you wish to have the entrances fees included in the tour price or you prefer to pay the separately, at each landmark.
Yes, of course! One of the major advantages you have by choosing us as your guides for exploring Romania is that we can make full customized tours. Just tell us what places you would like to visit, the number of persons, the time of travel and we will prepare a crafted tour according to your wishes.
We are flexible 😊 and depending on the changes you wish to make to the pre-set itinerary we will do our best to fulfil all expectations (additional detours to certain landmarks or spending more time at the places you like the most) but if this involves aspects that are out of our hand (the time table of the museums / attractions, bad weather conditions, no availability for certain tickets / bookings) we might not be able to do it.
12. Is Romania part of the Euro? Can I use foreign currency?
Although we have been part of the EU since 2007, many people make the mistake of thinking we use the Euro. This is not true. We use our national currency, the LEU (official known as the RON). So, when planning your tours of Romania, take into consideration that you will need some local currency. This is because most of the shops, restaurants and sites will not accept foreign currency. Nevertheless, on a tour of Romania, one must not worry. Most of the hotels will take Euros, plus there are plenty of ATM's and exchange offices available. Just remember that to change money, you will need a photo ID. If you are planning to pay by card, just remember, before leaving on a tour of Romania, to talk to your bank and let them know you will be spending time here, so that your card will not be blocked.
No, but we recommend to all of our customers to carry a personal medical & travel insurance that would cover any health-related costs that might occur during the trip.
14. How do I provide feedback after taking the tour?
YES, please 😊! We love reviews and feedback and we rely on them to always improve our services. You will always receive a follow up email with the details where you can share your comments on the tour. Our company is listed online on various websites so reviews on TripAdvisor, Facebook and Google help us a lot in spreading the word.
Didn't find the answer? Send us your question at office@crafted-tours-romania.com and we will respond as soon as possible.
Do you want to find out all the secrets of the city and why it's called "The Little Paris"? Then don't miss out on the opportunity and join us in a quest to discover Bucharest's history, architecture and heritage!
The walking city tour itinerary includes the most interesting sightseeing of the center of Bucharest: Revolution Square (Romanian Athenaeum, Royal Palace/Art Museum, Central Library, Communist Party Headquarter), Victoriei Boulevard, Union Square (the shooping center, the fountains and the Parliament Palace by far), University Square (National Theatre, InterContinental Hotel, the Romanian University) and the vibrant Old Town (Lipscani area).
The tour is available during the day, but also during the night, when all the buildings are nicely lighted.
Duration:
/ daily & flexible starting time, agreed with the traveler
Meeting point:
In front of the Romanian Athaeneum: Benjamin Franklin Street, no. 1 - 3
Prices for a private tour:
1 person: euro per person
2 persons: euro per person
3-8 persons: euro per person
What's included:
English speaking professional guide
Highlights:
This city tour itinerary includes the most interesting sightseeings of Bucharest. We will discover together the Romanian history, culture and life style.
Your tour starts at the Palace of the Parliament (People's Palace), an emblematic building of Bucharest and second largest administrative building in the world. After driving around it we will then head to the National Village Museum "Dimitrie Gusti", an open air museum where the visitor has the joy of meeting a real traditional romanian village with houses, monuments and artefacts beginning from the 17th until the early 20th century; representative buildings from important ethnography areas regained a second life within the museum, where you will spend around one hour.
Continuing the itinerary you will discover many other city attractions such as: the Revolution Square (Romanian Athenaeum, Royal Palace/Art Museum, Central Library), the Arch de Triumph, Kiseleff and Victoria Avenue, University Square and Union Square.
In the last part of the tour we invite you to take a stroll in the Old Town where you will visit the most popular sights: the Old Royal Court, Lipscani street, Stavropoleos Monastery, the CEC building, the Post Office Palace and the Macca – Villacroisse Passage, Palace of the National Bank and many charming streets full of cafe-bars.
Duration:
/ daily & flexible starting time, agreed with the traveler
Prices for a private tour:
1 person: euro per person
2 persons: euro per person
3-8 persons: euro per person
What's included:
English speaking professional guide
Private transportation with air-conditioned car / minibus
Pick-up & drop off from your hotel in Bucharest
What's excluded:
Entrance fee to the National Village Museum "Dimitrie Gusti"
Highlights:
The countryside surrounding Bucharest is among the most picturesque in Romania, but visiting its main sights on your own can be a hassle. With this private guided tour, you will get to see highlights like medieval monasteries, palaces and Dracula’s tomb, in one day, without the stress of driving.
Stop at Dracula’s Tomb to see the final resting place of Vlad the Impaler.
Admire the Byzantine and neo-Romanian architecture of Mogosoaia Lake Palace.
Visit the lake monasteries of Tiganesti and Snagov, full of legends and history.
Take in the scenic landscape and villages as you travel through the lake country, learning about the local history and culture from your driver.
There is enough time for photo stops, lunch/coffee breaks or just sit and rest when you need. As being a private tour, we guarantee flexibility and personalized service.
Duration:
/ daily & flexible morning departure
Prices for a private tour:
1 person: euro per person
2 persons: euro per person
3-8 persons: euro per person
What's included:
English speaking professional guide
Pick-up & drop-off from your central hotel in Bucharest
Private transportation with air-conditioned car / minibus
What's excluded:
Food or drinks
Photo fees
Entrance fees to the monasteries
Highlights:
Have you heard of Ceausescu, the infamous leader of the communist regime in Romania?
Are you interested in finding out more about "the instrument of terror – The Securitate"? Do you want to know how people lived during those days of oppression and shortages? We can answer all this questions and together we will discover what the communist regime meant for Romania and it's people.
This tour will present you Romania during the communist regime, and also aspects about the Revolution from 1989 and the beginning of democracy.
If we speak about communism, you cannot miss an outside visit to the Palace of the Parliament (People's Palace), build by Ceausescu and his megalomany. Considered the world's second-largest administrative building (after the Pentagon), this palace is just stunning. The dictator was executed in 1989, when the palace was almost done, and never got the chance to live here. He left us this colossal building as legacy.
You continue the tour by visiting the private house of Ceausescu's family called, Primaverii Palace. Hidden to the public eyes so far, the comfortable and opulent house was recently opened for everyone. The inside tour will present you the luxury lifestyle of the communist dictator.
Later on you will explore University Square, the Revolution Square - the place where the Communism was finaly defeated, the Communist Party Headquarter, you will also see the balcony of Ceausescu's last speech and have a stop in front of State Security Headquarter, the infamous offices of forced confessions, torture and execution during the communism regime. We will show you video clips from the revolution time (21-23 december 1989) and we will talk about people's courage, about the terror of those days and the hope in a better future for the country.
Duration:
/ daily & flexible starting time, agreed with the traveler
Prices for a private tour:
1 person: euro per person
2 persons: euro per person
3-8 persons: euro per person
What's included:
English speaking professional guide
Private transportation with air-conditioned car / minibus
Pick-up & drop off from your hotel in Bucharest
What's excluded:
Entrance fee to the Primaverii Palace
Highlights:
Do you want to relax, pamper yourself, have fun and stay healthy? Then we have the solution for you!
Enjoy a half-day tour at one of the largest relaxation and entertainment centers in Europe - Therme Bucharest. Having an indoor temperature of 29-30 °C (84-86 °F) and a water temperature of 33 °C (91.5 °F), the spa is open all year long. The thermal water makes its way from deep underground to supply 10 pools, 6 saunas, 4 wet saunas and 16 water slides.
Located near Bucharest, it hosts the widest variety of botanical plants with over 800,000 specimens, countless orchids, 1,500 palm trees from 6 countries and the biggest network of indoor waterslides in Romania, with a total length of 1,5 km (1 mile). You can enjoy, as well, the largest wave pool (560 square meters) in Romania. Therme Bucharest has also became the biggest venue for outdoor holidaying. At 30,000 square meters, Sands of Therme is the biggest urban beach in Europe, with a 720 square meters tropical pool, 1,500 sun loungers on the sand, a pool bar and a Beach Club.
With entertainment and recreation facilities that are completely new in Romania, Therme Bucharest is the ideal destination for the whole family. It is the perfect place to experiment the culture of wellness at its highest level.
Duration:
/ daily & flexible starting time, agreed with the traveler
Prices for a private tour:
1 person: euro per person
2 persons: euro per person
3-4 persons: euro per person
5-8 persons: euro per person
What's included:
Full admission to Therme areas: Galaxy, Palm and Elysium area (4.5 hrs)
Possibility to extend your stay inside up to 12 hrs on discounted rates
Round-trip transfer: pick-up & drop off from your hotel in Bucharest
Skip-the-line: priority access to the spa
Local assistance in any language (written)
What's excluded:
Food or drinks
Towels, bathrobe, slippers
Highlights:
Do you like to eat well? Do you also consider that food is the best way to get to know a culture? But do you also want to get a glimpse of the best this city has to offer? Then this is the tour for you.
Explore the Old Town of Bucharest and enjoy the wonderful story of the city from the origins and up to present. Discover the Romanian gastronomic culture at one of the best restaurants in Bucharest.
Packed with a variety of bars and restaurants, the narrow streets of the Old Town were once the main commercial streets of the city. Their name is, in fact, the legacy of the past days, when merchants brought goods from all over the world and sold their products to the elites of the capital.
Learn more about the area and you will quickly find stunning attractions such as the Post Office Palace, the Old Royal Court, Manuc's Inn, Stavropoleos Church, the CEC Palace, the Macca – Villacroisse Passage, the Palace of the National Bank and Lipscani Street.
Experience the Romanian traditional gastronomy at Caru cu Bere restaurant, where you will enjoy a delicious full lunch. We strongly believe that food is one of the best ways how to connect with a new culture, so don't hesitate to try this local experience!
Duration:
/ daily & flexible starting time, agreed with the traveler
Prices for a private tour:
1 person: euro per person
2 persons: euro per person
3-7 persons: euro per person
8 persons: euro per person
What's included:
English speaking professional guide
Traditional lunch at Caru cu Bere (fixed menu with soup, main course and dessert + non alcoholic beverage)
Flexible meeting point
What's excluded:
Alcoholic beverages
Highlights:
Does Count Dracula sound familiar 😊? Are you brave enough to visit the old's vampire castle? Then join us in a splendid private tour of Prahova Valley in the Carpathian Mountains, where you will find this castle and many more pleasant surprises!
The first stop will be in picturesque Sinaia – the Pearl of the Carpathian Mountains. Here you will visit the interior of the stunning Peles Castle - the former royal residence and one of the most visited castles in Romania.
The second place you will visit is the legendary castle of Count Dracula, in Bran. Famous around the world, Bran Castle is a "symbol" of Romania. Also, you can enjoy a lunch in a traditional Romanian restaurant near the castle.
The last hour will be spent in Brasov, a medieval city founded by german colonists, where you will experience the charm of the city through a walking tour of the Old Town area. Tour the historical heart of Transylvania at Brasov and learn the legend of the infamous Vlad the Impaler.
Duration:
One full day () / daily & flexible morning departure
Prices for a private tour:
1 person: euro per person
2 persons: euro per person
3-4 persons: euro per person
5-6 persons: euro per person
7-8 persons: euro per person
What's included:
English speaking professional guide
Pick-up & drop-off from your central hotel in Bucharest
Private transportation with air-conditioned car / minibus
What's excluded:
Food or drinks
Entrance fee to Peles Castle (standard tour) and Bran Castle (self tour - entire castle)
Highlights:
Explore Sinaia - the "heart" of the mountain resorts in the Prahova River Valley!
Sinaia - "the Pearl of the Carpathians" – is a popular place for any season you might travel in, as in the winter the city looks like a ski resort from the Alps and during the summer the mountain resort is transformed into an oasis for the many people coming here to hide from the high temperatures of the cities and enjoying the beautiful scenery and the coolness of the mountains. Therefore, King Carol I of Romania fell in love with the area and decided to build his home here, the stunning Peles Castle.
Enjoy a guided extended tour of the palace where you can marvel on the beautiful interiors, german handcrafted furniture or the impressive medieval weapons collection of King Carol I. On the outside you can admire the exterior gardens, the castle's park and terraces, with flower beds and fountains, turrets, pavilions, galleries and balconies concealed by ivy.
The tour also includes a visit at Sinaia Monastery, a Christian Orthodox church built in 1695 in byzantine architectural style.
Duration:
/ Tuesday – Sunday, flexible morning departure
Prices for a private tour:
1 person: euro per person
2 persons: euro per person
3-4 persons: euro per person
5-6 persons: euro per person
What's included:
English speaking professional guide
Private transportation with air-conditioned car / minibus
Pick-up & drop off from your hotel in Bucharest
What's excluded:
Entrance fee to Peles Castle (Extended tour)
Highlights:
Are you a wine lover? Do you want to find out more about the Romanian wines and our wine-growing area?
Then this is the tour that fits you best, as we will visit one of the most popural wine regions in Romania – Dealu Mare, and also have a trip to stunning Sinaia resort, for a visit of the famous Peles Castle.
Our first stop will be at Lacerta winery. The 82 ha of sunbathed vineyards making wine assortments with numerous gold medals at specialty contests, the architectural experience and the 7000 years of wine history of the place make Lacerta Winery a must-feel experience. As a proof of the perfect symbiosis between mineral, vegetal and animal life, lizards make their way through the brownish and limestone clay soils, the perfect conditions for wine, and then linger on the sunny side.
The alternative winery is Rotenberg, located in the same region. It has a total plantation area of 23 ha, soil rich in siliceous clays and climatic conditions very similar to those in Bordeaux or Tuscany. This is why Merlot wines obtained in such climatic conditions are extremely fruitful, expressive and powerful.
Later on, we get to Sinaia mountain resort, where our first king built his summer residence – Peles Castle. We will do a tour of the palace, while we can admire the exterior gardens, the beautiful interiors with German handcrafted furniture or the impressive medieval weapons collection of King Carol I.
Duration:
/ daily & flexible morning departure
Prices for a private tour:
1 person: euro per person
2 persons: euro per person
3-4 persons: euro per person
5-6 persons: euro per person
7-8 persons: euro per person
What's included:
Wine tasting package (3 types of wine)
Tour of the cellar and wine factory
English speaking professional guide
Private transportation with air-conditioned car / minibus
Pick-up & drop off from your hotel in Bucharest
What's excluded:
Entrance fee to Peles Castle (Standard tour)
Highlights:
Come and discover the wonderful Romanian Black Sea coast that has been attracting travellers for millennia! The food and architecture reflect diverse influences and give this part of the world a surprisingly cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Our day trip starts early in the morning from Bucharest, driving on the highway to Constanta, a charming city by the Black Sea where you will admire the most beautiful sights in the Old Town area: the Casino - main landmark of Constanta, an impressive Art Nouveau building dated 1880, the Orthodox Cathedral, the Grand Mosque (Carol I Mosque), Ovidiu square, the Genoa Lighhouse, the Romano-catholic church, the House with lions and also the Aquarium if we have enough time.
Our tour also includes a stop to Mamaia, one of our most popular and luxurious sea resorts on the Black Sea Coast (also known as the Romanian Ibiza). You will have relaxed time for swimming, sunbath or just enjoying a nice cocktail on the beach. We return to Bucharest in the evening.
The tour is recommended to be done in the sunny summer days, but the charming city of Constanta can be visited all year long.
Duration:
One full day () / daily & flexible morning departure
Prices for a private tour:
1 person: euro per person
2 persons: euro per person
3-4 persons: euro per person
5-6 persons: euro per person
7-8 persons: euro per person
What's included:
English speaking professional guide
Pick-up & drop-off from your central hotel in Bucharest
Private transportation with air-conditioned car / minibus
What's excluded:
Food or drinks
Deck chair / sunbed / umbrella / towels rentals
Museum entrance fees
Highlights:
Come to discover the last wild place in Europe!
The mighty Danube River flows 2,860 km (1,788 miles) from its springs in Germany's Black Forest, to the Black Sea. Just before reaching the sea it forms the second largest and best preserved of Europe's deltas: 5,700 square km of rivers, canals, marshes, tree-fringed lakes and reed islands. The Danube Delta is a wildlife enthusiast's (especially a bird watcher's) paradise.
Listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site, the Danube Delta is simply fascinating for its wildlife and untouched nature. The Delta is one of the last natural paradises in Europe, home to more than 300 species of birds, 45 fresh-water fish species, wildcats, foxes or even deers. Altogether, 3,450 animal species can be seen here, as well as 1,700 plant species.
Discover this facinating area on your private boat trip, along the canals and lakes, where you have the opportunity to admire the beauty of a well preserved environment.
Watch bird colonies (glossy ibis, spoonbill bird, great white pelicans, european kingfisgher, white tailed eagle, etc.) and the rich community of fish (giant beluga sturgeon, the northern pike, the European perch, the wels catfish) and animals of the Danube Delta water canals.
Admire floating islands of water lilies and take unique pictures as you navigate the Delta's lakes bordered by thatch, willows and oaks entangled in lianas.
Enjoy a delicious meal with fresh fish from the Danube waters.
Duration:
One full day () / daily
Prices for a private tour:
1 person: euro per person
2 persons: euro per person
3-4 persons: euro per person
5-8 persons: euro per person
What's included:
English speaking professional guide
Pick-up & drop off from your hotel in Bucharest
Private transportation with air-conditioned car / minibus
Private boat trip in the Danube Delta
What's excluded:
Food or drinks
Highlights:
Step into the legendary land of charming Transylvania!
On the first day of the tour you will discover Prahova River Valley in the Carpathian Mountains, visiting the stunning Peles Castle – the former Royal summer residence, the famous Dracula's Castle in Bran - a "symbol" of Romania, and Brasov – a medieval city founded by german colonists where you will experience the charm of the city through a walking tour of the Old Town area.
On the second day we depart from Brasov heading to Sighisoara, one of the most beautiful, best-preserved and still inhabited medieval citadels in Europe. The city is knowned as the birth place of the feared prince Vlad Tepes (Vlad the Impaler), turned into a legend by Bram Stocker, as the Count Dracula. Before getting there you will explore a UNESCO World Heritage Site - Prejmer fortified church. At the end of the day you will arrive in picturesque Sibiu, which was designated as the European Capital of Culture in 2007, and ranked "Europe's 8th most idyllic place to live" in 2014 by Forbes.
The third day will be reserved for getting back to Bucharest, but not before you have checked all the attractions of Sibiu (the Clock Tower, the Large/Small Square, Brukenthal museum, the Orthodox Cathedral, the old citadel defence walls).
On the way back to Bucharest, via Olt River Valley, we will also do a stop at Cozia monastery, dating from 1387. The medieval monastic complex in Cozia, located in the pituresque landscape of Olt River Gorge is the most beautiful foundation laid by Prince Mircea the Elder.
Duration:
Prices for a private tour:
1 person: euro per person
2 persons: euro per person
3-4 persons: euro per person
5-6 persons: euro per person
7-8 persons: euro per person
What's included:
Accommodation with breakfast in 3*** hotels/guest houses
English speaking professional guide
Private transportation with air-conditioned car / minibus
Pick-up & drop off from your hotel in Bucharest
What's excluded:
Other meals or drinks
Photo/video fees
Souvenirs or personal expenses
Entrance fee to the visited attractions
Highlights:
Situated right in the heart of Romania, Transylvania is waiting to be discovered. It is a land blessed by nature, home to legends, mysterious castles, fortresses or churches, medieval festivals, natural reserves and beautiful traditions.
The first day will get you through the Carpathian valleys, stopping at stunning Peles Castle – the former Royal summer residence, Rasnov – a splendid fortified citadel from the 15th century, then the lovely Old Town of Brasov – a medieval city founded by german colonists in the 13th century, finishing the day in Sighisoara, one of the most beautiful, best-preserved and still inhabited medieval citadels in Europe. This is the birth place of famous Count Dracula and you will have the chance to visit his house.
During the second day you will discover Rupea citadel - one of the oldest and best-conserved medieval sites in Romania, and some other UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Prejmer - the largest fortified church in southeastern Europe built by the Teutonic knights in 1212-1213, or Viscri - one of the most interesting Saxon fortified churches, built around 1100 by the Szekler population and taken over by Saxon colonists in 1185.
Duration:
Prices for a private tour:
1 person: euro per person
2 persons: euro per person
3-4 persons: euro per person
5-6 persons: euro per person
7-8 persons: euro per person
What's included:
Accommodation with breakfast in 3*** hotels/guest houses
English speaking professional guide
Private transportation with air-conditioned car / minibus
Pick-up & drop off from your hotel in Bucharest
What's excluded:
Other meals or drinks
Photo/video fees
Souvenirs or personal expenses
Entrance fee to the visited attractions
Highlights:
Experience a fantastic private tour in the middle of the nature, on one of the highest, most amazing roads in Romania, Transfagarasan - "the Road to the Sky".
On the first day, your journey to Sibiu will be done via Transfagarasan mountain road - one of the most spectacular roads in the world! This 90 km (56 miles) long road ambitiously climbs over the Fagaras Mountains and rises to a height of 2,134 meters (7,040 ft). It can be travelled at a maximum speed of 40 km/h (25 mph) because of its sharp turns sculpted in the magnificent landscapes.
At the start of the road we will drive by Vidraru Lake, one of the top 10 artificial lakes in Europe. The dam is 166 meters (547 ft) high and 930,000 cubic meters of concrete were used in its construction in 1960. Here you will have a photo stop. Afterwards, the road winds up to Balea Lake, a one of a kind glacier lake situated at 2,042 meters (6,738 ft) altitude, offering you amazing views over the Carpathian mountains.
On the second day you will discover the Old Town of Sibiu - the 2007 European Capital of Culture and dubbed by Forbes "Europe's 8th most idyllic place to live" in 2014. You will enjoy the many medieval attractions the town has to offer: the Clock Tower, the Large/Small Square, Brukenthal museum, the Orthodox Cathedral, the old citadel defence walls.
On the way back to Bucharest, via Olt River Valley, we will also do a stop at Cozia monastery, dating back to 1387. The medieval monastic complex in Cozia, located in the picturesque landscape of the Olt River Gorge, is the most beautiful foundation laid by Prince Mircea the Elder.
Duration:
Prices for a private tour:
1 person: euro per person
2 persons: euro per person
3-4 persons: euro per person
5-6 persons: euro per person
7-8 persons: euro per person
What's included:
Accommodation with breakfast in 3*** hotels/guest houses
English speaking professional guide
Private transportation with air-conditioned car / minibus
Pick-up & drop off from your hotel in Bucharest
What's excluded:
Other meals or drinks
Photo/video fees
Souvenirs or personal expenses
Entrance fee to the visited attractions
Highlights:
Explore the idyllic scenery of the unique painted monasteries of Bucovina!
If you want to discover a bit of the real Romania, run away from the busy capital city and get to know some of the country's natural beauties, while diving into spirituality and history!
On the first day you will start the tour heading from Bucharest to the North, to Bucovina region (N-E), undoubtedly one of the most beautiful areas of Romania. You will have the chance to admire the Eastern side of the Carpathian Mountains and the country-side landscapes, stopping in Gura Humorului where you can enjoy a good rest for the next day.
During the second day you will visit the most picturesque treasures of Romania: the Painted Monasteries of Bucovina, listed by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. Their exterior walls are painted with 15th-16th century frescoes featuring portraits of saints and prophets, scenes from the life of Jesus, images of angels and demons, heaven and hell. Masterpieces of Byzantine art, these churches are one-of-a-kind architectural attractions in Europe. The most beautiful monasteries we will visit are: Voronet – known as "The Sistine Chapel of the East", an emblematic painted church built more than 500 years ago, with well preserved frescoes, Sucevita - where you will visit the largest painted convent, very similar to a fortress, and Moldovita, with its golden and deep blue paintings on the exterior walls, completed in the 16th century. You will end the day in Piatra Neamt, a city at the foothill of Ceahlau mountains, or in a city closer to Transylvania.
The third day will get you to the legendary land of Transylvania and its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, passing stunning mountain landscapes and attractions, such as Bicaz Canyon and The Red Lake (the largest natural mountain lake in Romania). Later on, you will explore charming Sighisoara, one of the most beautiful, best-preserved and still inhabited medieval citadels in Europe, the authentic Saxon houses of Prejmer and fortified churches. In the evening, you will arrive at Brasov, a medieval city founded by german colonists in the 13th century.
In the fourth day you will explore Prahova River Valley in the Carpathian Mountains, visiting Dracula's Castle in Bran, then Brasov city, where you will enjoy a walking tour in the Old Town area, and then Sinaia with the stunning Peles Castle – the former Royal summer residence. You will arrive in Bucharest in the evening, passing by the main attractions of the city.
Duration:
Prices for a private tour:
1 person: euro per person
2 persons: euro per person
3-4 persons: euro per person
5-6 persons: euro per person
7-8 persons: euro per person
What's included:
Accommodation with breakfast in 3*** hotels/guest houses
English speaking professional guide
Private transportation with air-conditioned car / minibus
Pick-up & drop off from your hotel in Bucharest
What's excluded:
Other meals or drinks
Photo/video fees
Souvenirs or personal expenses
Entrance fee to the visited attractions
Highlights:
Leave your map behind and follow us in a unique 5 days private tour in the charming Transylvania.
On the first day of the tour you will discover Prahova River Valley in the Carpathian Mountains, visiting the stunning Peles Castle (the former Royal summer residence), the famous Dracula's Castle in Bran - a "symbol" of Romania, and Brasov – a medieval city founded by german colonists where you will experience the charm of the city through a walking tour of the Old Town area.
During the second day you will explore Rupea citadel, which is one of the oldest archaeological sites in Romania (with the first signs of human settlements dating from the Paleolithic and early Neolithic), and continue with a UNESCO World Heritage Site - Prejmer fortified church. You will end your day in charming Sighisoara, one of the most beautiful, best-preserved and still inhabited medieval citadels in Europe, where you will get a walking tour in the Old Citadel of Sighisoara: the Big Square, the Clock Tower, the Medieval Weapons museum, the covered school stairs, the Evanghelic Church and many more attractions.
On the third day we leave Sighisoara behind and head to Alba Iulia, where you will find one of the largest citadels and one of the oldest settlements in Romania, known in ancient time as Apulum, when Alba Iulia served as a military and economic center during the Roman occupation. You continue the journey to Hunedoara, after having visited Deva citadel, dating back to 1269. In Deva you will enjoy a ride with the funicular to the top of the citadel to marvel at the splendid view over the city.
You will start the fourth day with a visit to the Corvin Hunyadi Castle. You can't say you have been in Transylvania if you haven't seen this gothic masterpiece. Also known as Hunedoara Castle, built in 1446 in a Renaissance-Gothic style and constructed on the site of an older fortification, the castle is a large and imposing structure with tall towers, bastions, an inner courtyard, diversely coloured roofs, myriad windows and balconies adorned with stone carvings. Depending on our time, we can visit the Roman ruins at Sarmizegetusa (Ulpia) or the bison zoo in Hateg. Later we drive to picturesque Sibiu, where you can have an evening stroll in the Old Town area.
On the fifth day you continue exploring Sibiu, which was designated European Capital of Culture in 2007 and ranked "Europe's 8th most idyllic place to live" in 2014 by Forbes. The town has many medieval attractions such as: the Clock Tower, the Large/Small Square, Brukenthal museum, the Orthodox Cathedral, the old citadel defence walls. On the way back to Bucharest, via Olt River Valley, we will also do a stop at Cozia Monastery dating back to 1387. In the summer time, the alternative is to get back to Bucharest via Transfagarasan road, one of the most spectacular roads in the world!
Duration:
Prices for a private tour:
1 person: euro per person
2 persons: euro per person
3-4 persons: euro per person
5-6 persons: euro per person
7-8 persons: euro per person
What's included:
Accommodation with breakfast in 3*** hotels/guest houses
English speaking professional guide
Private transportation with air-conditioned car / minibus
Pick-up & drop off from your hotel in Bucharest
What's excluded:
Other meals or drinks
Photo/video fees
Souvenirs or personal expenses
Entrance fee to the all visited attractions
Highlights:
Romania's #1 tourist attraction, also known as Dracula's Castle thanks to its connection to the vampire legend.
For sure the medieval Saxons who built the fortress of Bran in the 14th century had no idea how famous their work will be more than half of millennium later. It became an international attraction overnight, given its link to the Dracula myth, and right now Bran Castle is Romania's most visited museum.
Essentially a medieval fortress built to defend and control the commerce done via the Rucar-Bran mountain pass and historic customs, the construction found its most glorious use after 1920 when Queen Maria received it as a gift for her support of Romania's Great Union in 1918. A royal residence until it was confiscated by the communists in 1947, Bran Castle functions as a museum ever since.
Bran Castle can be seen via:
The Constanta Casino is one of the most impressive attractions that we recommend you visit when traveling along the Black Sea coast.
Located on Constanta's seafront, the casino building is an architectural pearl built in the Art Nouveau style. Just before World War II it served as a residence for the Russian imperial family during their visit to Constanta. It was renovated several times until it was finally closed in 1990 because of its very expensive maintenance.
Considered a symbol of the city, the casino is one of the most iconic buildings in Romania. Fascinating, its twin structure was established in Monte Carlo. Today, the Constanta Casino is left in ruins. Even so, the building and its history will surely impress you.
Constanta Casino can be seen via:
Peles Castle is the most impressive castle in Romania and a must-see attraction if you're passionate about stories of royalty, magnificent architecture and history.
The summer residence of the royal family until 1948 when it was confiscated by the communist regime, the castle from Sinaia is today one of the most stunning castles in Europe.
This Neo-Renaissance castle was built by King Carol I who took vacations here in the 1860s.
With its spectacular beauty, sitting on a Carpathian hillside, this fairy-tale-like edifice is considered one of the most beautiful castles in Europe. A 4,000-piece weapons collection reflects the king's military interests, while a movie room decorated with frescoes reflects the queen's artistic taste. The first movie shown in Romania premiered here.
Peles Castle can be seen via:
The underground Turda Salt Mine is burried at a depth of 115 meters (380 ft) below the surface and dates back to the 17th century.
Recently it was transformed into an astonishing underground amusement park, and has attractions ranging from an amphitheatre for events, a bowling alley, a mini golf course, Ping-Pong tables, an underground lake with paddle and row boats, and even a Ferris wheel.
As opposed to the conventional use of explosive, the mine was initially formed using entirely handwork and machinery and served as a base for salt exploitation. Later in time, the mine was also used to store cheese and as a bomb shelter during World War II.
Today, the old mine is at the same time a museum with a variety of mines, rooms and spaces where visitors can see how salt used to be collected and transported, and also an exciting amusement park that has been called one of the coolest underground places in the world.
One of the top medieval attractions from Transylvania, Corvin Castle situated in Hunedoara is listed by all travel guides as a must-see of the region for a good reason.
A spectacular Gothic structure, considered the most impressive medieval castle in Romania, Corvin Castle is fairy-tale like. It used to belong to Price Ioan of Hunedoara, one of the most successful medieval leaders to combat the Ottoman Empire.
Dating from to the 14th century, the castle went through several architectural changes and renovations over the years, but still remains one of the most impressive Gothic castles in Eastern and Central Europe. The castle was used as the background of several movies and hosts many events, including opera and film festivals. Don't miss visiting the torture pit and the dungeon, where the unluckiest endured excruciating punishments.
Corvin Castle can be seen via:
Located in the legendary area of Transylvania, Sighisoara is a great example of a well-preserved, fortified medieval town.
Founded in the 12th century by Transylvanian Saxons, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is run through by narrow cobbled streets, filled with colourful houses, and elevated towers. The Old Town of Sighisoara is definitely a medieval jewl at its finest. The city is also known as the birthplace of Vlad III the Impaler, who served as the inspiration for the fictional character Count Dracula, in Bram Stoker's world-renowned novel.
Sighisoara's delightful medieval buildings are enclosed within its citadel, a complex of protective walls and watchtowers. Walking in the citadel is today a tranquil, fairy-tale-like experience, but these towers were once loaded with weapons and emergency supplies, defending Sighisoara from enemy attacks.
Sighisoara Citadel can be seen via:
The Merry Cemetery is a world-renowned cemetery, famous for its cheerful approach to death.
The cemetery consists of colorful painted wooden crosses that adorn the tombstones and the naive paintings which represent scenes from the life of the departed while also telling joyful stories with a touch of irony. It is the most famous touristic attraction located in Northern Romania and was ranked at the top of European cemeteries and the second in the world after "The Valley of The Kings".
Its uniqueness comes from the different approach it takes - whereas the popular belief is that death is a sad event, the cemetery tries to make death a natural part of life - a belief which comes mainly from the Dacians, who believed in eternal life and for which death was merely a passage to another world. Shown in art exhibitions across Europe, the crosses attract coachloads of visitors who marvel at the gentle humour of the epitaphs and the human warmth that created them.
Bucovina is most famous for its UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the painted churches, the symbol of Bucovina and the most visited attractions in the region.
Don't hesitate to take a tour of these landmarks, it's one of the most interesting and memorable things to do in Bucovina. Dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries and built by local princes, the monasteries are a precious testimony to the importance of the Church and religion in medieval times.
Eight of them are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, listed for their astonishing beauty, particularized by the unique Byzantine style frescoes that cover both their interior and exterior walls. From religious cycles and ladders of virtues to scenes from the battle of Constantinople, these beautiful frescoes were more than esthetic, they had a clear educational and political role.
The Painted Monasteries of Bucovina can be seen via:
The second-most visited city after Bucharest, Brasov is one of the most popular destinations in Romania.
With its picturesque old centre, medieval monuments, centuries-old churches, multicultural architecture, one of the most best ski resorts in the country, Brasov has all that it takes to make it to the top of the list in your next trip to Romania.
With a history of over 600 years, the Black Church from Brasov is the most iconic historical monument from this old Transylvanian town. The largest hall-church east of Vienna and one of the biggest medieval churches from this part of Europe, the impressive Gothic construction is impossible to miss if you're wandering through the centre of Brasov.
Visiting the Black Church is a must and a top thing to do in Brasov, one of the most beautiful cities in Romania. The monument is an accurate picture of the main events that shaped the history of Transylvania in times of peace and war, from enemy invasions to the fundamental role of Saxon colonists and the impact of the Reformation on their society.
The Black Church in Brasov can be seen via:
One of Romania's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Sarmizegetusa Regia is located in the depths of the secular forests, at 1,200 meters (3,960 ft) altitude, and remains a historic site of high importance to Romanians.
This ancient city was the centre of the powerful kingdom of the Dacians, the ancestors of the Romanian people. Today you can walk among the remains of the fortress and admire the impressive sun dial, while the site's biggest treasures - the solid gold Dacian bracelets - are displayed in Bucharest at the National Museum of Romanian History.
It was the largest of the Dacian fortresses and it was built there in the proximity of nearby iron deposits. The fortress is entirely layered and spreads over terraces. The citadel surrounded by walls, the monumental sanctuaries (the Circular Calendar), the blossoming workshops, houses, systems for water collection and filtering, appear to be connected by a coherent system of roads. The historic area is filled with centuries-old ruins and one of the sanctuaries reminds of the Stonehenge in England.
The mighty Danube River flows 2,860 km (1,788 miles) from its springs in Germany's Black Forest to the Black Sea.
Just before reaching the sea it forms the second largest and best preserved of Europe's deltas: 5,700 square km of rivers, canals, marshes, tree-fringed lakes and reed islands. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Danube Delta is a wildlife enthusiast's (especially a bird watcher's) paradise.
Danube Delta Travelers can explore the highest concentration of bird colonies in all of Europe. Some 300 species of birds make Danube's Delta their home, including cormorants, white tailed eagles and glossy ibises. There is also a rich community of fish and animals such as wildcats, foxes and wolves, and even occasional boars or deers. Altogether, 3,450 animal species can be seen here, as well as 1,700 plant species. The maze of canals bordered by thatch, willows and oaks entangled in lianas, offers the perfect breeding ground for countless species of birds, some of them from as far away as China, Africa or the North Pole.
The Danube Delta can be seen via:
"This is the best road in the world" – Jeremy Clarkson said in a Top Gear episode, while comparing it to a race track.
Still, Transfagarasan offers so much more besides the amazing driving experience, as it connects the south of Romania to Transylvania, going straight across the impressive Fagaras Mountains through five tunnels and countless hairpin turns.
Stunning mountain views are guaranteed along the most beautiful road in Romania, which makes it perfect for a road trip. The highway cuts right through the highest mountains in Romania, so be prepared to see some breathtaking landscapes on the way. The most popular tourist attractions along the road are Vidraru artificial Lake and dam, Poenari Fortress and Balea Glacier Lake.
Transfagarasan Road can be seen via:
Sibiu is one of the most beautiful cities in Romania, a Cultural European Capital in 2007 and winner of the title of "Europe's 8th most idyllic place to live" in 2014 by Forbes.
The squares of the old city are hard to miss. They reunite most of the historical monuments from the old part of Sibiu, and they are fully-packed with cafes and restaurants, making them a popular stop for tourists.
First mentioned in 1411, the Large Square is, however, older, dating back to the mid 14th century when the third fortification belt of the city was built. Over the centuries, the Large Square witnessed the main events of the city, from public meetings to executions. The main attractions of the Large Square are Brukenthal Palace, the Blue House, the Haller House and the Catholic Church.
In the Small Square, you'll find more iconic attractions: the Council Tower, the Bridge of Lies, Hermes House or the Fresco Hall. The buildings from this square date from the 14th to the 16th century and were mainly craftsmen shops. Smaller than the first two, the Huet, the Goldsmiths' and the Arms squares complete the list of the Old Town's attractions.
Sibiu Old Town can be seen via:
Home to the Romanian George Enescu Philharmonic, the stunning Romanian Athenaeum is the city's most prestigious concert hall.
The 19th century building, designed by French architect Albert Galleron, resembles an ancient Greek temple with a 41-meter-high dome and a peristyle of six Ionic columns.
The interiors feature a lobby of intricately painted gold-leaf ceilings, cascading balconies, and spiral marbled staircases. The 652-seat auditorium is known for its excellent acoustics and fine art. A 70-meter-long and three-meter-high fresco that winds its way around the circular hall proudly depicts scenes from Romania's history.
A portion of the construction funds was raised by public subscription in a 28-year-long effort, of which the slogan is still remembered today: "Donate one leu for the Ateneu!"
The Romanian Athenaeum can be seen via:
The Palace of the Parliament is one of the top tourist attractions in Bucharest.
It is the world's second largest administrative building (after the Pentagon), and an architectural colossus that also claims the title as the heaviest building in the world.
Boasting more than 3,000 rooms over 330,000 square meters and constructed with marble and steel, it was originally called the People's House by its visionary, the former dictator Nicolae Ceausescu, who had plans to use it as his family's residence and as the seat of his government. To complete it, he razed places of worship, workshops, factories, parks, part of the Old Town, and entire neighbourhoods.
More than 20,000 workers and 700 architects worked on the opulent Neoclassical-style palace over a span of 13 years, while Romanians faced poverty. Still unfinished, a small portion houses Romania's parliamentary headquarters and the National Museum of Contemporary Art. Scheduled tours bring visitors up close to its vastness, the kitsch, and the outrageous luxury Ceausescu would have continued to experience had he not been overthrown in a coup d'état.
The Palace of the Parliament can be seen via:
The Old Town is one of Bucharest's earliest settlements, with structures dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries.
Throughout time, it was the seat of Romanian princes, a centre for trade, a place of worship, and a crossroad for travelers. It managed to survive Ceausescu's 1980s razing of one fifth of the city to build his vision of a new Socialist capital.
After spending decades as a slum, much of the Old Town has been renovated and is now one of the most popular areas in the city. Historic buildings have been gallantly restored, yet other properties are still awaiting their facelift. The contrast gives that much more charm to the pedestrian lanes and cobbled streets lined with bookshops, theatres, restaurants, clubs and cafés.
Bucharest Old Town can be seen via:
Revolution Square earned its name after setting the scene of dictator Nicolae Ceausescu's final minutes of power in Romania.
On December 21st, 1989, a coup d'état ensued here with the help of a crowd of more than 100,000, forcing the leader of the communist party to flee, and changing the course of the country's history. Until that date, the central square was known as Palace Square, due to its proximity to the Royal Palace, which is the current home to the National Museum of Art.
Other historic buildings stand nearby, including the Senate Palace, the Romanian Athenaeum, and the Athenee Palace Hilton Bucharest.
Revolution Square is also known for the dramatic Monument of Rebirth. Erected in 2005, it includes the names of the 1,058 victims of the bloody revolution and a bronze statue of Iuliu Maniu, the Romanian prime minister imprisoned, tortured and killed by the communist party.
The Revolution Square can be seen via:
Founded in 1936, this unique open-air museum stretches through leafy Herastrau Park and depicts the traditional way of life in Romania.
Visitors can wander through 300 traditional buildings, including peasant homes with steep roofs, thatched barns, heavy log cabins, various types of churches, workshops, and mills - all of which have been transported from towns across every region of Romania. Each building was carefully taken apart, shipped to the museum, and rebuilt to be part of the walkable village-like setting in the park. The Village Museum also displays artefacts and pottery, as well as other traditional items hailing from around the country.
The Village Museum can be seen via:
Prejmer Fortified Church is a remarkable historical monument, now part of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and a must-see of any itineraries through medieval Transylvania.
This monument deserves at least one visit if you're traveling through legendary Transylvania and want to know more about its history.
The largest fortified church in south-eastern Europe, Prejmer was built by Teutonic knights in 1212-1213. The solid surrounding walls are 12 meters (40 ft) high and 3-5 meters (10-15 ft) thick. Historical records attest that in its 500 years of existence, the fortress was besieged 50 times. However, it was only captured once, in 1611, as the fighters defending the fortress have surrendered after not having no drinking water available for several days.
Endowed with bastions, drawbridges and a secret, subterranean passage through which food supplies could be transported, the church's most famed war device was the "death machine", made of several weapons that could shoot simultaneously, causing the enemy severe losses.
Prejmer Fortified Church can be seen via:
The fortress of Rasnov is one of the largest and most remarkable medieval monuments in Transylvania, a solid example of defensive constructions used to survive in a time when Ottoman and Tatar attacks destroyed entire cities and villages.
A key defensive landmark on the commercial road that linked Transylvania to the historical province of Southern Romania, the Balkan Peninsula and Central Europe, Rasnov Fortress has its share of sieges, heroic fights and medieval confrontations.
One of the most visited medieval attractions in the country, the fortress impresses through its centuries-old history and dramatic ruins.
Rasnov Fortress can be seen via:
Biertan Fortified Church stands head and shoulders above the other buildings in Biertan. It was originally a Catholic church, built when the region belonged to Hungary.
It became a Lutheran church after the Reformation. Rather than building a fortress to defend against Ottoman invaders, the villagers fortified the church. Built in Late Gothic style, it is one of the largest fortified churches in Romania. The church is noted for its towers, including one used to store food during sieges and another to imprison husbands who wanted a divorce.
Biertan flaunts one of the most splendid fortified churches in Transylvania, featuring a brilliant locking mechanism with 15 bolts that can be simultaneously activated. In the Prison Tower, couples that wanted to divorce were held in a small room for two weeks, sharing everything, in an attempt to get back together. In the summer, the village hosts the horror movies festival, Full Moon Festival.
One of the most imposing and best-conserved medieval sites in Transylvania, Rupea Fortress is a definite must during your trips across this world-unique destination.
Half-way between the medieval cities of Brasov and Sighisoara, the fortress of Rupea amazes through its imposing dimensions and old centuries of history.
Rupea Citadel is one of the oldest archaeological sites in Romania, with the first signs of human settlements dating from the Palaeolithic and early Neolithic.
A popular legend in the area tells that Dacian king Decebalus would commit suicide within the citadel during the Second Dacian War (105–106), when the citadel was known as Ramidava.
Rupea Fortress can be seen via:
One of the most famous and authentic villages of Transylvania, Viscri is a travel destination in its own.
Its pastoral landscapes, traditional houses, local artisans, the support of the Foundation Mihai Eminescu Trust and Prince Charles' visits have transformed this old village into one of the trendiest attractions in the region.
The white fortified church, included in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, is one of the must-visit attractions in Transylvania, a more than worth the bumpy detour from the main national road.
First mentioned at the beginning of the 15th century, but dating some hundreds of years back, the church was built and fortified in several stages, conserving partially its bastions, towers and fortification walls. One of the former towers is now a small museum with traditional objects belonging to the Saxon community.
Viscri Fortified Church and village can be seen via:
The fortified church from Harman is one of Transylvania's must-see medieval monuments and one of the best-preserved fortifications used by the Saxon colonists centuries ago, when enemy attacks were a constant threat.
The church is located only 10 km (6 miles) from Brasov, in the village of Harman, known as Honigberg in German and Mons Mellis in Latin, literally translated as the Mount of Honey.
From the outside, Harman's fortified church resembles a bright white layer cake. Enclosed by its mighty walls is a triple-nave basilica, the Church of St Nikolaus, which has retained its Romanesque style (dating to 1240) despite reconstruction. The centrepiece is a circa-1300 bell tower, rising 56 meters (185 ft) above the complex. Watch your step as you climb the narrow spiral staircase up the tower (and guard your eardrums if you reach the top when the hourly chimes ring out).
Alba Iulia Citadel is one of Romania's top attractions, a place where history goes back 2,000 years to the time when the Roman Empire conquered the Dacian Kingdom.
A Roman castrum, a medieval fortification and a large citadel under the authority of the Habsburg Empire, Alba Iulia was also the scene of the first and brief Romanian union in 1600.
But this impressive citadel is most famous for the day of December 1st, 1918 when Transylvania decided its union with Romania, celebrated today as the National Day of the country.
It's remarkable not only for its architectural elements and the beauty of its gates which reflect unique military structures, but also for the rich history surrounding it - the city of Alba Iulia is of vital reference for the history of Romanians and is associated with the Great Union of 1918, when Transylvania and the rest of Romania were united. This is why some Romanians like to refer to the city as "the other capital".
Alba Iulia Citadel can be seen via:
Vidraru Dam, one of Ceausescu's megastructures, was completed in 1966 on the Argeș River and created Vidraru Lake, with the primary purpose of serving a hydroelectric power plant.
The dam's height is 166 meters (548 ft) and it can store 465 million cubic meters of water. The reservoir has a total shoreline length of 28 km (18 miles).
The dam's construction took 5 and a half years. It required 42 km (26 miles) of tunnels, excavation of 1,768,000 cubic meters of hard rocks, 930,000 cubic meters of concrete and required the installation of 6,300 tons of electro-mechanical equipment. When completed, it ranked 5th in Europe, and 9th in the world. As of 2021, Vidraru Dam is the 16th tallest dam in Europe.
The Transfagarasan road passes over the top of the dam, which is 305 meters (1,006 ft) in length. Also, during the summer there are boat trips on the lake.
Vidraru Dam Lake can be seen via:
One of the most well-known and visited places in Romania is Curtea de Arges Monastery, located in Arges County, approximately 160 km (100 miles) from Bucharest.
The monastery, built in the 16th century, sits at the end of an alley bordered by old lime trees, and invites you into a reality that seems taken from another world which beckons you to meditate and relax your soul and mind.
Curtea de Arges Monastery is emblemtic for the entire county and its genesis is based on a series of legends out of which Manole's Builder legend is the most famous.
The legend refers to Manole the Master Builder and his team of stonemasons, who were charged by a local prince to build the most majestic monastery. However, the construction was not moving forward, because at night, all the work done during the day would magically crumble. Manole then had a dream, which told that they would not be able to build the monastery until "We decide/ To wall in/ The first wife,/ The first sister/ That shows up/ Tomorrow at dawn".
The unlucky one was Manole himself, whose pregnant wife Ana came to see him, in spite of having to brave the rain and wind meant to turn her away at Manole’s behest. Thus, Manole is forced to wall Ana in, and after this terrible sacrifice, the construction of the monastery was finished with no further impediments. Transcending the myth to reality, the exterior wall actually has a mark indicating the spot where Ana was casted.
The magnifique monastery is also known for being the burial place of the Romanian kings and queens.
Curtea de Arges Monastery can be seen via:
Primaverii (Spring) Palace is the former residence of Romanian dictator Nicolae Ceausescu and can now be visited on a guided tour.
The palace is located in one of the richest and most exclusive districts of Bucharest, in the north of the city and close to the Herastrau park and lake.
Built in the 1960’s, the 80 rooms Spring Palace (to use the English translation of its name) served as a home for the Ceausescu family for almost two decades. While the building, which has its own cinema and swimming pool, is elegant from the outside, the interior is decorated in a ghastly style, showcasing the taste of Ceausescu’s wife, Elena. The decor is perhaps best described as neoclassical kitsch, complete with solid gold toilet roll holders.
The residence, which was always the private house of the Ceausescu family, is a good opportunity to reveal the true face of Communism, of those who were speaking in the name of the poor while enjoying an extravagant life, full of luxuries and without any worries.
Primaverii Palace can be seen via:
One of Romania’s amazing natural wonders, Balea Lake is a glacier lake situated at 2,034 meters (6,712 ft) altitude in the Fagaras Mountains, in central Romania.
There are two chalets opened all year round, a meteorological station and a mountain rescue station. It is accessible by car on the Transfagarașan road during the summer and the rest of the year by a cable car from the "Balea Cascada" chalet.
Legend has it that Balea Glacier Lake was named after a brave young shepherd who became the king's chief commander before he fell into the lake during a storm. The site features stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Getting to Balea Lake is also part of an unforgettable experience. To reach the lake, during summer time you have to drive the Transfagarasan Road, a winding path dotted with hairpin turns that cuts through the Fagaras Mountains, named the 'Transylvanian Alps' by the French geographer Emmanuel de Martonne.
Balea Glacier Lake can be seen via:
The Southern Carpathians (also known as the Transylvanian Alps) are a mountain range that you will visit and be delighted to admire in many of our private guided tours.
They span over a distance of almost 340 km (210 miles) and are the epicenter of mountainous beauty and wildlife in Romania. To the south they are bordered by the Balkan mountain range.
Their territory is covered by vast areas of pristine forests, in fact, the largest chunk of unfragmented forests left in Central Europe, and is home to the largest brown bear population in Europe, and 45% of the big carnivores’ population of the continent (brown bears, lynx, wolves).
The Southern Carpathians are the second highest group of mountains in the Carpathian Mountain range (after Tatra), reaching heights of over 2,500 meters (8,250 ft). Although lower than the Alps, they have a pure alpine landscape and can reveal harsh conditions. Their high mountain character, combined with great accessibility, makes them popular with tourists and scientists.
Southern Carpathians can be seen via:
