Romania and Moldova | SELF DRIVE

Today’s visit includes the Palace of the Parliament, the second-largest administrative building in the world after the Pentagon. The structure impresses not only with its scale but also with its lavish interiors. After the visit, enjoy free time in the Old Town. In the afternoon, travel through the spectacular Olt Valley toward Transylvania. (B)

Sibiu is considered one of Transylvania’s most beautiful cities. Established by German settlers in the 12th century, it preserves a stunning medieval centre with cobblestone streets and numerous historic buildings. Today you will explore – with a local guide – the heart of Sibiu and its three interconnected squares: the Grand Square, the Small Square, and Huet Square. Visit the Brukenthal Museum in the Grand Square, home to Romania’s finest art collection. Nearby you’ll find the Catholic Church and the City Hall. The walking tour continues to the Liars’ Bridge, Transylvania’s first iron bridge, and to the Evangelical Church, the symbol of the city. In the afternoon, visit the open-air ASTRA Museum to learn more about Romanian folk culture. Afterwards, continue to the picturesque mountain village of Sibiel. Enjoy a delicious dinner accompanied by homemade wine and brandy prepared by local hosts. (B, D)

This morning, travel to Alba Iulia, one of Romania’s most significant historical cities. Visit the largest Vauban-style Habsburg fortress in Transylvania, along with the impressive Orthodox and Catholic Cathedrals. After some free time in the medieval citadel, continue to Cluj Napoca, the largest city in Transylvania. Stroll through Unification Square with your guide and admire St. Michael’s Catholic Church and the equestrian statue of the Hungarian King Matthias Corvinus. The journey continues to Baia Mare where you will check-in at the hotel. (B)

Today is dedicated to the renowned Maramures region. Your first stop is Sighetul Marmatiei at the Memorial of the Victims of Communism and of the Resistance, located in a former prison. Your guide will then take you to the village of Sapanta, home to the famous “Merry Cemetery.” The wooden crosses are brightly painted with depictions of the deceased’s life. Your local host will offer you homemade brandy. The trip continues with a scenic drive along the Iza Valley to Barsana, where you will visit the wooden church dating back to the early 18th century. Transfer to Bistrita. Overnight at the hotel. (B)

This morning, enjoy a beautiful drive through the Eastern Carpathians toward Bucovina. Bucovina is famous for its stunning scenery and its painted Orthodox monasteries. Today you will visit two of the most important monasteries in Romania. The first stop is the village of Voronet, home to the monastery known as the “Sistine Chapel of the East.” Built in the 15th century, it is admired for its exceptional frescoes and distinctive blue color. Next, visit Neamt Monastery, also founded in the 15th century. In the evening, arrive in Iasi. Overnight at the hotel. (B)

Today you will explore neighboring Moldavia, which historically belonged to Romania. After a short drive, reach Chisinau, the Moldavian capital. The panoramic tour includes the National Palace, the Arch of Triumph, and the Parliament Palace. Enjoy some free time in the Old Town. In the afternoon, continue to Cricova to visit one of the world’s largest wine cellars and taste some of the finest Moldavian wines. Founded in 1952, Cricova is one of the few wineries producing sparkling wines using the traditional Champagne method. The cellar holds an extraordinary collection of around 1.3 million bottles. Return to Iasi. Overnight at the hotel. (B)

This morning, learn more about Iasi, the former capital of the Principality of Moldavia and briefly Romania’s capital city. Known as the “Cultural Capital of Romania,” Iasi is one of Eastern Europe’s most significant university centers. During the city tour, visit landmarks such as the Cultural Palace, the Orthodox “Trei Ierarhi” Church, the Orthodox Cathedral, the City Hall, and the University. Continue to Brasov, one of Eastern Europe’s loveliest medieval towns. The guided tour of the nearly 800-year-old centre includes a visit to the Black Church, the largest Gothic building of its kind between Istanbul and Vienna. Inside, admire its impressive collection of Anatolian carpets. Overnight at the hotel in Brasov. (B)

This morning, visit the famous Dracula Castle in Bran. Built by the Saxons of Brasov at the end of the 14th century, it served as a customs point between Wallachia and Transylvania. Legend claims that Dracula lived here. Continue to Sighisoara, the medieval citadel where Vlad the Impaler (Count Dracula) spent his early years. Founded by the Saxons in the 13th century, the town still retains its medieval charm, with its 14th-century walls, towers, and bastions. Enjoy a guided walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed citadel and visit the Clock Tower, the Church on the Hill, and Dracula’s birthplace. Return to Brasov for overnight. (B)

Enjoy a picturesque drive to Sinaia, the most elegant alpine town in the Romanian Carpathians and former residence of Romania’s first king, Carol I. Here you will visit Peles Castle, an exquisite royal palace set amid lush meadows and deep forest. Built in the German Renaissance style, Peles Castle is considered one of the most beautiful in Eastern Europe. Transfer to the airport in Bucharest for your flight home. (B)