7-Day Private Tour to Romania and Bulgaria from Bucharest

Exploring Romania and Bulgaria in just a week offers an adventure packed with history, stunning scenery, and authentic local culture. For $895, you’ll travel comfortably with a private driver and guide, making your journey smooth and stress-free. From the historic royal palaces of Bucharest to the legendary castles of Transylvania, and finally to Bulgaria’s vibrant capital Sofia, this tour covers a lot of ground without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

Two features we particularly love are the carefully curated itinerary—which minimizes logistical worries—and the depth of experiences you get at each stop. Visiting sites like Peles Castle, Sighisoara’s charming citadel, and the wild beauty of the Danube Delta means you’ll see both the architectural grandeur and natural splendor of the region. The tour also includes hotel stays, daily breakfast, guided excursions, and private transportation, making it a comprehensive package that offers great value for travelers who want to maximize their time and experience.

A possible consideration is the moderate physical activity level required, especially on walking tours through medieval villages and castles. Travelers should be prepared for some walking and uneven surfaces, which is part of the authentic experience but might be tiring for those with mobility issues.

This tour best suits travelers who love history, architecture, and landscapes, and who prefer a structured yet flexible way to explore two countries with local guides sharing insights along the way.

Key Points

• All-inclusive convenience: Hotels, breakfast, private transport, and guiding are covered.
• Rich cultural stops: From Transylvanian castles to Bulgaria’s Veliko Tarnovo and Sofia.
• Comfortable travel: Air-conditioned vehicle, hotel pickup, and drop-off make logistics easy.
• Authentic experiences: Visit historic sites, medieval towns, and natural wetlands.
• Ideal for history buffs: The itinerary emphasizes castles, fortresses, and ancient architecture.
• Moderate physical activity: Expect some walking, possibly on uneven surfaces.

This tour offers a well-rounded look at two fascinating Eastern European countries, combining history, scenery, and local culture. It’s designed for travelers who want to see the highlights without the hassle of organizing each detail themselves. For those willing to do some walking and exploring, it promises a memorable journey through medieval castles, vibrant cities, and stunning natural landscapes.

Day 1: From Bucharest to Targoviste and Brasov

Your adventure begins with a morning pickup in Bucharest, easing into the trip with a drive northward to Targoviste, a city steeped in royal history. Here, you’ll visit the former royal residence, where Vlad Tepes—the real-life inspiration for Dracula—once ruled, and see the site of Nicolae Ceausescu’s trial and execution in 1989. This offers a powerful glimpse into Romania’s recent past.

Next, your route takes you through the Prahova Valley and Brasov, a picturesque region known for its scenic beauty and mountain backdrop. A highlight is the visit to Peles Castle, a fairytale-like former royal residence boasting impressive architecture and interiors. The castle’s ornate design and lush surroundings make it a favorite among visitors, and it’s easy to see why.

Overnight in Brasov allows you to soak in the medieval charm of this well-preserved city. Its cobblestone streets and Gothic architecture set the perfect tone for the days ahead.

Day 2: Discovering Transylvania’s Medieval Gems

After breakfast, the real magic begins as you venture further into Transylvania, famed for its folklore and castles. Stops include Viscri, a small village with a UNESCO-listed fortified church that exemplifies traditional rural architecture. The village’s peaceful, timeless vibe will appeal to those seeking authentic local life.

Your visit continues to Sighisoara, one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval towns where people still live within the fortress walls. Guided through narrow streets, you’ll see key sites like the Main Gate, Clock Tower, Church of the Dominican Monastery, and the Medieval Weapons Museum. The Torture Chamber and the colorful houses along the hilltop add layers to the storybook scenery.

Returning to Brasov for the night ensures you can relax after a day immersed in medieval history. The guide, Mr. Basi, is noted for being accommodating, knowledgeable, and friendly—adding a personal touch to your experience.

Day 3: Castles, Fortresses, and a City Tour

Today is a highlight for castle lovers. Your itinerary includes Bran Castle, popularly known as Dracula’s Castle, with its Gothic towers and dramatic setting. It’s a must-see for many visitors and offers a fascinating glimpse into Romania’s folklore. Nearby, the Râșnov Fortress provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and a taste of medieval military architecture.

In the late afternoon, you’ll return to Bucharest for a panoramic city tour, where you’ll see key landmarks like the Palace of the Parliament—often called the heaviest and largest administrative building in the world. Its sheer scale is eye-opening, and your guide will share insights about Romania’s recent history and political past.

Day 4: The Danube Delta and Bucharest

The journey continues eastward to the Danube Delta, a UNESCO biosphere reserve teeming with wildlife. Setting out on a boat ride along the canals offers a peaceful, natural perspective of the region’s wetlands. It’s a highlight for nature lovers, offering chances to spot birds and enjoy the serenity of this unique ecosystem.

Overnight in the Delta provides a chance to experience its tranquility and natural beauty firsthand—a stark contrast to the historical sites of the previous days.

Day 5: Coastal Charm and Balchik Palace

Traveling south, you’ll visit Constanta, a lively port city on the Black Sea, with a quick tour and the Navy Museum. Then, your tour takes you into Bulgaria to Balchik, where the Palace of Queen Maria awaits. This former summer residence still exudes charm, with lush gardens and historic architecture. The story of her heart resting in a glass jar in the chapel is a poignant detail that adds a layer of intrigue to this visit.

Staying overnight at the seaside allows you to enjoy Bulgaria’s Black Sea coast, known for its relaxed vibe and scenic views.

Day 6: Veliko Tarnovo and Sofia

Today’s journey takes you to Veliko Tarnovo, often called the “City of the Tsars”. The hilltop Tsarevets Fortress offers impressive views and a tangible sense of Bulgaria’s medieval past. The Samovodskata Charshiya (market street) and local churches display the country’s artistic and religious traditions.

In the evening, your drive to Sofia, Bulgaria’s vibrant capital, culminates the day. Sofia boasts an intriguing mix of ancient ruins like the Eastern Gate and Saint Sofia Basilica, alongside lively modern streets.

Day 7: Sofia’s Historic Highlights and Return to Bucharest

Your final day begins with a walk among Sofia’s historical sites. The city’s streets reveal remnants from Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman eras, making it a treasure for history buffs. After a mid-day departure, you’ll head back to Bucharest, completing your circuit of this fascinating region.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

This 7-day tour balances structured sightseeing with enough flexibility to appreciate regional nuances. By including hotel stays, guided tours, and private transport, it avoids the common pitfalls of self-planned travel—like transportation headaches or missing hidden gems.

The price point of $895 offers excellent value considering the inclusions: comfortable transport, expert guides, and entrance to major sites like Peles Castle and the Palace of the Parliament. The reviews highlight how much travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides and stunning views, which significantly enhance the experience.

The itinerary’s focus on both natural and architectural marvels means you’ll leave with a well-rounded understanding of Romania and Bulgaria. It’s particularly suited for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and those who enjoy scenic drives through diverse landscapes.

Final Thoughts

This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a comprehensive, expertly guided introduction to Romania and Bulgaria. The balance between cultural landmarks, natural beauty, and comfortable logistics makes it a compelling choice. If you prefer not to worry about border crossings, transport, or planning each day, this package keeps things straightforward—letting you focus on experiencing the places and stories.

While the itinerary involves some walking and uneven surfaces, overall, it offers a manageable pace for most travelers with moderate fitness. The inclusion of guided commentary ensures you get context and insights you might miss on your own, enriching your understanding of these captivating countries.

For those who want to see the most important sights, enjoy authentic local atmospheres, and travel comfortably with expert guidance, this tour provides a memorable, value-packed experience worth considering.

FAQ

Is transportation provided throughout the tour?
Yes, you’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle or minivan with a private driver, ensuring comfort and convenience on all days.

Are hotel stays included?
Absolutely, the tour covers six nights’ accommodation, with breakfast included each morning.

What if I want to visit specific sites not listed?
Your guide will focus on the scheduled stops, but given the private nature of the tour, you can discuss additional interests with your guide, space permitting.

Is the tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
While the itinerary involves some walking, it’s designed for those with moderate physical fitness. For specific mobility concerns, it’s best to discuss with the tour provider.

Are meals besides breakfast included?
No, meals and drinks outside of breakfast are not included, giving you the flexibility to explore local eateries at your own pace.

Can I join this tour if I have a large luggage set?
The tour accommodates one suitcase and one carry-on per person; any oversized luggage should be discussed prior to booking.

This 7-day private tour offers an exciting, hassle-free way to experience the highlights of Romania and Bulgaria, combining history, landscapes, and authentic culture in a thoughtfully curated itinerary. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or cultural explorer, it’s a journey that’s likely to leave you with lasting memories—and plenty of stories to tell.