Romania, Bulgaria & Moldova: Legends and Landscapes

Leave Bucharest and head for Sibiu, stopping first at Curtea de Arges Monastery. Admire its stunning architecture, a Romanian take on the Sagrada Familia, full of history and charm.

Next, climb 1,400 steps to Poenari Fortress, the true Castle of Dracula. Feel the legends come alive and capture epic photos to impress your friends.

End the day strolling through Sibiu Old Town. Enjoy cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and a relaxed evening.

Overnight stay in Sibiu

Today we continue discovering the true spirit of Transylvania together with your private guide.

Our first stop is the spectacular Corvin (Hunyadi) Castle, one of the most beautiful Gothic castles in the world. With its towers, bridges and dramatic architecture, it looks exactly like the castles many of us imagined in childhood stories.

We then travel even deeper into history with a visit to Densus Church, believed to be the oldest church in Romania. Built using stones from ancient Roman ruins, this mysterious place feels timeless and unique.

Later we arrive in Alba Iulia, one of Romania’s most important historic cities. Here we explore the impressive Alba Carolina Citadel, a massive star-shaped fortress surrounded by powerful defensive walls.

Overnight in Alba Iulia

Today we travel north into Maramureș, one of the most authentic and traditional regions of Romania, famous for its wooden architecture, rural landscapes and warm hospitality.

Our first stop is the spectacular Turda Salt Mine, a former salt mine transformed into one of the most impressive underground attractions in Europe. Here we descend deep underground and breathe the pure saline air while exploring this remarkable space carved entirely in salt.

Later we arrive in Cluj-Napoca, where we enjoy a relaxed walk through the historic Old Town, discovering the vibrant heart of one of Transylvania’s most important cities.

Before reaching Maramureș, we stop at the Surdești Wooden Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the tallest wooden churches in the world, a masterpiece of traditional craftsmanship.

In the evening we arrive in Vadu Izei, where we stay in a welcoming family guesthouse and enjoy a delicious home-cooked dinner prepared with local ingredients.

Today we continue exploring Maramureș, a region where traditions still shape everyday life and every village tells its own story.

We begin with a visit to a local market, a lively place where villagers gather, trade goods and share news. It is the perfect chance to observe authentic rural life and feel the warm atmosphere of this remarkable region.

Next we discover the famous Merry Cemetery of Săpânța, one of the most unique cemeteries in the world. Colorful wooden crosses display hand-carved images and humorous poems telling the life stories of those buried here. We also visit the workshop of the local craftsman who continues this fascinating tradition.

Our journey continues to the Peri Wooden Church, the tallest wooden church in the world and a striking symbol of Maramureș architecture.

Later we visit the powerful Memorial Museum of the Victims of Communism in Sighetu Marmației, one of the most important historical museums in Eastern Europe.

In the evening we return to Vadu Izei, where the day ends with a private traditional folk music and dance performance, followed by another delicious home-cooked dinner at our welcoming guesthouse.

Today we leave Maramureș and travel toward the historic region of Bucovina, known for its monasteries, wooden traditions and beautiful mountain landscapes.

Our first stop is the spectacular Bârsana Monastery, one of the most beautiful monastic complexes in Romania. Surrounded by flowers and wooden buildings carved with incredible detail, it feels peaceful and timeless. We also visit the workshop of a local master woodcarver to see how this traditional craft is kept alive.

We continue to the Ieud Wooden Church, one of the oldest wooden churches in Romania and part of the UNESCO World Heritage. This remarkable monument reflects the deep spiritual traditions of the region.

Before reaching Bucovina, we stop in the famous village of Ciocănești, known for its uniquely painted houses decorated with traditional patterns.

In the evening we arrive in Gura Humorului, where we spend the night and prepare to explore Bucovina’s legendary monasteries.

Today is dedicated to one of Romania’s most unique treasures — the painted monasteries of Bucovina, included in the UNESCO World Heritage list.

Throughout the day we visit some of the most famous monasteries in the region: Voroneț, often called the “Sistine Chapel of the East”, as well as Humor, Sucevița, and Moldovița. Their vibrant exterior frescoes have survived for centuries and tell powerful biblical stories in brilliant colours.

At midday we enjoy a special cultural experience: lunch in the home of a local artist, where you will discover the delicate tradition of Romanian egg decoration (“încondeiere”), one of Bucovina’s most beautiful crafts.

After a day filled with art, history and living traditions, we return to Gura Humorului, where we stay overnight and prepare for the next adventures.

In the morning we leave Gura Humorului and continue our journey toward the eastern border, crossing the Prut River into the Republic of Moldova.

On the way we stop in Iași, one of Romania’s most important cultural and historical cities. Elegant boulevards, grand architecture and a long academic tradition make Iași a true symbol of Romanian culture.

Later in the day we arrive in Chișinău, the capital of Moldova. The evening is free to explore the city’s relaxed atmosphere before settling in for the night.

Overnight in Chișinău

The day begins with a guided tour of Chișinău, the lively capital of Moldova. Wide boulevards, elegant parks and Soviet-era landmarks reveal the story of this fascinating city.

In the afternoon we visit the famous Cricova Wine Cellars, one of the largest underground wineries in Europe. Here you will explore the endless tunnels filled with millions of bottles and learn about Moldova’s long wine tradition.

Of course, the experience would not be complete without a wine tasting. Sample excellent local wines and pick your favorites before returning to the city.

Overnight in Chișinău

Today we take a fascinating day trip to Tiraspol, the capital of the self-proclaimed Transnistria Republic. Crossing into this unique region feels like stepping back in time.

During the visit you will explore the main squares, Soviet-style monuments and local landmarks that reflect the history and identity of this unusual place.

After the tour we return to Chișinău, where you can relax and reflect on this truly rare travel experience.

Overnight in Chișinău

Today we leave the Republic of Moldova and travel back into Romania, continuing our journey through the historic region of Moldavia.

Along the way, if time allows, we can stop to visit some of the most beautiful Orthodox monasteries in the area, such as Agapia, Văratec, or Neamț Monastery, each surrounded by peaceful landscapes and centuries of spiritual history.

By evening we arrive in Piatra Neamț, a charming town nestled between forested hills, where we spend the night and prepare for the next stage of our adventure.

Overnight in Piatra Neamț.

Today we cross the Carpathian Mountains, following the spectacular road through the Bicaz Gorges, one of the most dramatic landscapes in Romania. Towering cliffs and winding roads make this journey an unforgettable part of the adventure.

Along the way we stop to meet a local Roma family, offering a rare opportunity to learn about their traditions, culture, and everyday life in Transylvania.

By afternoon we arrive in Sighisoara, one of the best-preserved medieval citadels in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During a guided walk through the cobbled streets of the old town, you will discover colorful houses, historic towers, and the atmosphere of a living medieval city.

Overnight in Sighisoara

We begin with Sighisoara’s Clock Tower and Armory Museums, uncovering stories of Vlad the Impaler and Wallachian history.

Next, we visit Biertan, a Saxon village with beautifully preserved houses and a fortified church, UNESCO-listed, and learn its centuries-old secret for lasting marriages.

In the afternoon, we arrive at Viscri, the village loved by Prince Charles. Here, a traditional home-cooked meal introduces authentic Transylvanian flavors, followed by a wagon tour to a blacksmith, brick-making workshop, and sheepfold.

Overnight in Viscri, surrounded by starry skies and the serene mountain landscape that captivated royalty.

The day begins at Rupea Fortress, one of the oldest and most impressive medieval fortresses in Transylvania. Recently restored, it rises high above the surrounding hills and offers spectacular views.

We then continue to the legendary Bran Castle, known around the world as Dracula’s Castle. Walk through its mysterious halls and towers and discover the stories behind the famous legend.

Before leaving, enjoy time at the local bazaar, where you can taste traditional products and find unique handmade souvenirs.

Overnight in Brasov, one of Transylvania’s most charming medieval cities.

Start the morning with a walking tour of Brasov Old Town, including the iconic Black Church, a stunning Gothic landmark.

On the way to Bucharest, we visit Azuga Winery, supplier to the Romanian Royal Family, and Sinaia Monastery, a masterpiece of architecture and history.

Before reaching Bucharest, stop at Snagov Lake Island to see the hidden tomb of Vlad the Impaler, a must-see for history and Dracula enthusiasts.

Arrive in Bucharest, marking the end of this life-time adventure.