Highlights of Romania Tour | SELF DRIVE

Begin your journey toward Transylvania by driving to Sibiu, often considered the most beautiful medieval town in Transylvania. Founded by German Saxons in the 12th century, Sibiu has preserved its remarkable Old Town with colourful houses, large squares, and numerous legends. During your guided walking tour you will explore the Grand and Small Squares, the Liar’s Bridge, the Brukenthal Palace, and the Evangelical Cathedral. Overnight in Sibiu. (B)

Travel westward and visit Hunyadi Castle in Hunedoara, Romania’s most impressive Gothic-style fortress. After leaving Hunedoara, continue to the Turda Salt Mine, one of the oldest salt mines in the world. Now closed as a mine, the cavern has been transformed into an astonishing underground amusement park, featuring a Ferris wheel, mini-golf, bowling, boating on the subterranean lake, and a sports arena. Arrive in Cluj Napoca in the evening. (B)

Enjoy a city tour showcasing Cluj Napoca’s most notable attractions, such as Saint Michael’s Church—built in the 14th century in Gothic style—the Memorial Matthias Corvinus House, the oldest building in the city, as well as Matei Corvin’s Statue and St. Peter’s Church. Continue with a visit to the Desesti Wooden Church, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In the afternoon, stop in Săpânța to see the extraordinary Merry Cemetery, known for its colorful tombstones decorated with naïve-style paintings. Overnight in Sighetul Marmației. (B)

Travel to Vișeul de Sus and enjoy a ride on the steam-powered, century-old Mocănița train, offering spectacular scenery and a delicious barbecue lunch. While still in Maramureș, visit one of the region’s famous wooden churches, the Bogdan Vodă Church. In the evening, arrive in Bistrița, check in, and overnight. (B)

This morning, visit two of Bucovina’s most renowned monasteries—Voroneț Monastery and Moldovița Monastery. Built in just three months and three weeks in the 15th century, Voroneț is often called “The Sistine Chapel of the East.” Moldovița Monastery, constructed in the 16th century, served as a fortified structure. One of the nuns will guide you through the frescoes, including “The Siege of Constantinople” and “The Last Judgment.” In the town of Vama, visit the remarkable Painted Egg Museum. Return to Bistrița in the evening for overnight. (B)

Drive to Târgu Mureș and stroll along Roses Alley, where you can admire the Cultural Palace and the Orthodox Cathedral. Continue to Sighișoara, a small town established by Transylvanian Saxons in the 12th century. Its medieval citadel, complete with nine towers, cobbled streets, and brightly colored houses, remains inhabited and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your walking tour includes the Clock Tower, the birthplace of Count Dracula, and the Church on the Hill. Drive to Brașov for the night. (B)

Drive to Bran village and tour the famous Dracula Castle, built at the end of the 14th century by the Transylvanian Saxons and used for centuries as a customs point between Transylvania and Wallachia. In the afternoon, meet your local guide and explore Brasov’s well-preserved Old Town, including Council Square, Nicholas Church, and the Black Church. Overnight in Brasov. (B)

Visit one of Europe’s most magnificent castles: Peles Castle. Its interiors are remarkable, showcasing fine European art, Murano crystal chandeliers, valuable paintings, and exquisite furniture. Continue to Bucharest, Romania’s capital. Enjoy a city tour of one of Europe’s most dynamic and cosmopolitan capitals, also the sixth largest in the European Union. Admire landmarks such as University Square, Roman Square, Constitution Square with the Palace of Parliament (the world’s second-largest administrative building after the Pentagon), and Victory Square with the Victory Palace. (B)

Free time at leisure. Drive to Otopeni International Airport for your departure. Safe travel! (B)