Amazing Transylvania | SELF DRIVE

Depart on a scenic drive to Sinaia and visit Peleș Castle, one of Europe’s most impressive castles, built in a German Renaissance style and once the summer residence of the Romanian royal family. Stroll through the castle gardens and admire both the exterior architecture and the richly decorated interior. Continue with a visit to the Sinaia Monastery, founded by Prince Cantacuzino in the 19th century, featuring Byzantine-style architecture and a collection of valuable artifacts, including the first Romanian translation of the Bible from the 17th century. Proceed to Bușteni to explore Cantacuzino Castle, known for its Neo-Romanian style and beautifully maintained gardens.Continue to Brașov and check in at your centrally located hotel. (B)

After breakfast, travel to the Bear Sanctuary in Zărnești, established in memory of Maya, a bear once kept in captivity under poor conditions. Today, the sanctuary provides a safe environment for over 100 rescued bears, making it the largest brown bear reserve in the world. Continue to Bran to visit Bran Castle, built in the 14th century by the Saxons and famous for its association with the Dracula legend. The castle also served as a residence for the Romanian royal family. Return to Brașov for a guided tour of this medieval city founded by German Saxons in the 12th century. Visit landmarks such as the Black Church, inspired by Saint Sebaldus Church in Nuremberg, and explore the Old Town, including the Black Tower, White Tower, Ecaterina’s Gate, and Rope Street. (B)

Start the day with a journey through the picturesque Transylvanian countryside, known for its fortified churches and preserved rural traditions. Visit Viscri, one of the most well-known Saxon villages in the region. Explore the UNESCO-listed Viscri Fortified Church, see the Prince of Wales’s House, the local brick factory, and the blacksmith’s workshop. Continue to Sighișoara, a beautifully preserved medieval town. Walk through its UNESCO-listed citadel, admire the 14th-century walls, towers, and bastions, and visit key sites such as the Clock Tower, the Church on the Hill, and the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler. Return to Brașov for the night (B)

Depart early for Sibiu. Upon arrival meet your local guide and explore this well-preserved medieval city, visiting landmarks such as the Bridge of Lies, one of Europe’s earliest iron bridges, Citadel Park, the Council Tower, the Large Square, Huet Square, and the Small Square. Continue your walk through the Old Town and visit the Evangelical Church, whose tower, at nearly 74 meters, is the tallest in Transylvania. Later, travel back to Bucharest and check in at your hotel. (B)

After breakfast, visit the Palace of the Parliament, the second-largest administrative building in the world. Enjoy some free time to explore Bucharest’s Old Town at your own pace before your departure. (B)