Transylvania and the Painted Monasteries of Bucovina| SELF DRIVE

In the morning, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Bucharest, often nicknamed the “Paris of the East” because of its elegant boulevards and Belle Époque architecture. Accompanied by an English-speaking local guide, discover some of the capital’s most important landmarks, including the Arch of Triumph, Victory Square, Revolution Square, and the Palace of Parliament — the second-largest administrative building in the world after the Pentagon in the United States. Also known as the House of the People, the building was commissioned by former Communist leader Nicolae Ceaușescu. Afterwards, continue your journey towards Transylvania, driving through the scenic Olt Valley. Along the way, stop at Cozia Monastery, one of Romania’s oldest and most significant historical and artistic monuments, founded by the ruler Mircea the Elder. By afternoon, arrive in Sibiu, one of the largest and wealthiest medieval fortified cities established in the 12th century by German settlers. During a guided walking tour with a local English-speaking guide, explore the Grand Square, the Small Square, and the famous Bridge of Lies. In the evening, enjoy a traditional dinner accompanied by local brandy and wine at a family home in the village of Sibiel. Overnight stay in Sibiu. (B, D)

After breakfast, depart for Medias, where you will explore one of Romania’s best-preserved historic centers and visit St. Margaret’s Church. The town’s emblem is the impressive Buglers’ Tower, approximately 70 meters high, whose construction began in the 13th century and was completed in the 15th century. Continue to Biertan, internationally recognized for its UNESCO-listed Saxon fortified church. Perched on a hilltop, the church is a masterpiece of late Gothic architecture, featuring elegant stone-ribbed vaults and a remarkable covered staircase. The fortified complex is especially known for its impressive altarpiece with 28 painted panels, its famous sacristy door equipped with 19 locks, and the so-called “marital prison,” where couples seeking divorce were once confined together for two weeks. The journey then continues to Sighisoara, one of Transylvania’s hidden treasures and one of the best-preserved inhabited medieval citadels in Europe. Known as the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration for Dracula, the town retains its authentic medieval atmosphere with defensive walls, towers, and bastions dating back to the 14th century. Enjoy a guided walking tour through the citadel, including visits to the Clock Tower, the Church on the Hill, and Dracula’s Birth House. Overnight stay in Targu Mures. (B)

This morning, take time to independently explore the Old Town of Targu Mures, including the elegant Rose Square, the impressive Palace of Culture, and the Orthodox Cathedral. Located in the city center, the Palace of Culture houses several important institutions, including the Mureș County Library, the Mureș County Museum, and the State Philharmonic. Continue the journey towards Bistrita before crossing the spectacular Carpathian Mountains into the region of Bucovina. Arrival in Gura Humorului for overnight accommodation. (B)

Begin the day with a visit to Moldovita Monastery, founded in the 16th century by Petru Rareș, the illegitimate son of Stephen the Great. Although built according to Byzantine traditions, the monastery also displays Gothic and Renaissance influences, visible in its windows and interior details. Continue to Sucevita Monastery, the largest and most imposing monastic complex in Bucovina, dedicated to Prince Ieremia Movilă. Famous worldwide for its extraordinary frescoes painted by two brothers, the monastery stands out through its vivid color palette combining brilliant reds and blues with emerald green backgrounds. In the afternoon, visit the renowned Voronet Monastery. According to Moldavian chronicles, Stephen the Great built the monastery after receiving encouragement from the hermit Daniil before a decisive battle against the Ottoman Turks. Often referred to as the “Sistine Chapel of the East,” Voronet is celebrated for its spectacular exterior frescoes and the famous “Voronet Blue.” After the monastery visits, continue to Piatra Neamt for overnight accommodation. (B)

This morning, travel through the breathtaking landscapes of the Bicaz Gorge while returning to Transylvania. Around midday, arrive in Prejmer, home to the largest fortified church in southeastern Europe and one of Romania’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Originally built in the 13th century by the Teutonic Knights, the church was later expanded with Cistercian architectural elements and strong defensive fortifications. Historical records mention that the fortress was besieged around 50 times throughout its existence, yet conquered only once. Continue to Brasov, often called the “Crown of Transylvania.” Meet your English-speaking guide and begin a walking tour through the charming Old Town, starting at Council Square, originally established by the Saxons and known as Marktplatz. One of the city’s greatest landmarks is the Black Church, Romania’s most important Gothic monument and the largest Gothic church between Vienna and Istanbul. Overnight stay in Brasov. (B)

In the morning, visit Bran Castle, famously associated with the Dracula legend. Hidden among forested hills and surrounded by mystery, the castle was constructed by the Saxons in the 14th century and functioned for centuries as a customs point between Transylvania and Wallachia. In 1920, Bran Castle became a royal residence offered to Queen Marie of Romania by the citizens of Brasov. Today, the castle is internationally known as the setting connected to Bram Stoker’s fictional Count Dracula and hosts numerous cultural events and private functions. Continue to Sinaia to visit Peleș Castle, the magnificent former summer residence of Romania’s royal family. Commissioned by King Carol I, the castle transformed Sinaia into an exclusive aristocratic mountain resort. Later, return to Bucharest. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner featuring traditional folk entertainment and local wine at a Romanian restaurant. Overnight stay in Bucharest. (B, D)

Transfer to Bucharest’s Otopeni International Airport for your departure. Travel safe!