8 Days Private Romania Tour from Bucharest

Romania’s hidden charms come alive on this 8-day private guided tour starting from Bucharest. For around $2,825 per person, you’ll get a deep dive into Romania’s diverse landscape and culture, all in a flexible, personalized package. From medieval monasteries and colorful villages to the windswept peaks of the Carpathians and legendary castles, this tour offers a well-rounded taste of what makes Romania so special.

We love how this trip balances history, nature, and local flavor — particularly the chance to visit iconic sites like Bran Castle and Peles Palace, alongside lesser-known gems such as the Merry Cemetery and wooden churches. Plus, the stories shared by guides like Nicolas often add a humorous and human touch that makes the experience genuine.

One consideration? The tour involves quite a bit of driving, which means some long travel times between sights. It’s best suited for travelers eager to explore Romania’s highlights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. Ideal for history buffs, culture lovers, and those craving authentic flavors, this tour caters well to visitors wanting a comprehensive, well-organized journey.

Key Points

• Flexible itinerary allows for personalized adjustments even after departure.
• Expert guides like Nicolas enrich the experience with stories, humor, and local insights.
• Diverse sights range from medieval monasteries to mountain roads and colorful villages.
• Comfortable private transportation ensures smooth travel and in-depth exploration.
• Authentic experiences include local foods, traditional crafts, and cultural landmarks.
• Excellent reviews highlight the value, guide expertise, and memorable scenery.

Exploring Romania in Depth: What You Can Expect

This 8-day private tour provides an immersive adventure through Romania’s landscapes and towns, carefully curated to showcase both its historic treasures and natural beauty. The journey begins in Bucharest but quickly shifts to the enchanting sites of Curtea de Arges, Poienari Castle, and Sibiu’s old city. We found that the tour strikes a good balance between driving, sightseeing, and absorbing local stories — all with the comfort of a private vehicle and an expert guide.

Day 1: From Bucharest to Medieval and Mountain Marvels

Your adventure kicks off with the Curtea de Arges Monastery, a place famous for its royal tombs and evocative stories of sacrifice and history. While admission isn’t included, the site’s atmosphere and craftsmanship are captivating. Next, a visit to the Poienari Castle, perched high over the Arges River, offers a chance to see the ruins of Vlad the Impaler’s fortress and imagine medieval battles. The climb up (about 2 hours) rewards you with sweeping views and a sense of stepping back into history.

Afternoon takes you to Sibiu’s Big Square, which is an excellent spot to relax and soak up local life. The city’s architecture, combined with its status as the European Capital of Culture, makes it a highlight. Afterward, the Transfagarasan Highway offers one of Romania’s most spectacular drives, with jaw-dropping mountain vistas and the famous Balea Lake tunnel. This part of the trip captures the country’s rugged, wild beauty.

Day 2: Salt, Gardens, and Wooden Churches

Day 2 introduces you to Salina Turda, a former salt mine turned subterranean amusement park. The fresh, saline air is good for the lungs and the setting is playful, with attractions and underground tunnels that make it feel like part adventure, part science museum. Nearby, the Gradina Botanica in Cluj offers a peaceful stroll among lush plant collections, and the Surdesti Wooden Church — a UNESCO-listed marvel — showcases intricate craftsmanship dating from 1721.

Day 3: The Colorful and Humorous Spirit of Maramureș

The Merry Cemetery in Sapanta is a memorable stop, where humorous epitaphs and vibrant crosses celebrate the departed with wit and color. It’s a place that captures the Romanian attitude towards life and death with a sense of humor that surprises visitors. The Victims of Communism Memorial then provides a sobering reminder of Romania’s recent past, offering insight into the struggles and resilience of its people.

The day ends exploring the Peri Monastery, a wooden church with centuries of spiritual history, built in 1391. The craftsmanship and deep sense of tradition are palpable.

Day 4: Wooden Churches and Mountain Passes

Continuing through Maramureș, the Barsana Monastery impresses with its towering wooden structure and spiritual ambiance. The nearby Tihuta Pass (or Borgo Pass) offers a scenic mountain crossing, with dramatic views and a chance to appreciate Romania’s diverse terrain. The colorful village of Ciocanesti rounds out the day, famous for its painted houses and cheerful appearance, defying the spooky “vampire” image often associated with the Carpathians.

Day 5: The Painted Monasteries of Bucovina

Venture into the monastery-rich region of Bucovina, where Voronet Monastery — known as the “Sistine Chapel of the East”— dazzles with its vivid blue frescoes. The Humor Monastery and Sucevita Monastery add layers of religious art and history, with murals depicting biblical scenes. The Moldovita Monastery showcases murals on both interior and exterior walls, blending Byzantine, Gothic, and Moldavian styles.

Day 6: Breathtaking Gorges and Artistic Discoveries

The Bicaz Gorges are a highlight, with serpentine roads winding through towering cliffs and offering unforgettable views. We loved the way the road feels like a rollercoaster, with rock faces on one side and abyss on the other. Nearby, Lacu Roșu, or Red Lake, is a striking natural feature, formed by a landslide in 1838, and worth a quick stop for photos and fresh mountain air.

For a cultural twist, the Nicolae Popa Museum in Tarpesti displays local folk art and sculptures—an authentic glimpse into Romania’s creative spirit.

Day 7: Medieval Sighisoara and the Charming Village of Viscri

Sighisoara’s Clock Tower and medieval fortress bring Romania’s past vividly to life. As one reviewer put it, it’s “a living, breathing medieval town,” where you can wander cobblestone streets and imagine life centuries ago. The Viscri Village, with its fortified church and traditional houses, offers a quiet, authentic experience, made more special by Prince Charles’s interest and the Mihai Eminescu Trust’s efforts.

Day 8: Castles and Palaces of Legend

Your trip ends with visits to Bran Castle, famously linked to Dracula lore, and Peles Palace, a royal residence with stunning architecture and opulent interiors. The Sinaia Monastery adds a spiritual note to the grand finale, rounding out a comprehensive portrait of Romania’s cultural and natural riches.

What We Love About This Tour

This tour’s real strength lies in its knowledgeable guides who bring stories, jokes, and insights that make each stop memorable. From the humorous epitaphs of the Merry Cemetery to the detailed frescoes of Voronet, guides like Nicolas help you see Romania’s sights through a local lens.

We also appreciate the diversity of scenery and experiences — from mountain roads and dramatic gorges to colorful villages and historic monasteries. It’s a well-rounded itinerary that balances nature, history, and culture, giving you a complete picture in just eight days.

A Few Considerations

Because of the extensive driving involved, some days are long, especially when moving between regions. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, this might feel a bit intense. Also, entrance fees are not included at most sites, so budgeting for those is advisable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This journey is perfect for history and culture buffs eager to see Romania’s most iconic sites without the hassle of coordinating details. It’s also suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy mountain scenery and scenic drives. Those interested in authentic, often off-the-beaten-path places like the Merry Cemetery and vibrant villages will feel right at home.

Travelers who appreciate local stories, delicious food, and a touch of humor will find this tour particularly rewarding. If you’re looking for a well-organized, engaging way to experience Romania’s diverse attractions, this trip offers excellent value and memorable moments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s a private experience with only your group participating, offering flexibility and personalized attention.

How long is the total duration?
The tour lasts approximately 8 days, with each day packed with sights and activities.

What’s included in the price?
You get a private car, guide/driver, wireless internet in the vehicle, and recommendations for hotels. Meals, entrance fees, and accommodations are not included.

Can the itinerary be customized?
Yes, the tour offers great flexibility for changes even after it begins, allowing you to tailor the experience to your interests.

What is the guide like?
Reviews highlight guides like Nicolas as friendly, knowledgeable, and funny—adding a lot to the overall experience.

Are there any long drives?
Yes, some days involve several hours on the road, especially when crossing the Carpathians or traveling between regions.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are generally not included, so budget accordingly for the various sites.

Is this suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some walking and climbing, such as the Poienari Castle hike.

What about food and beverages?
These are not included, but the itinerary often visits towns and villages where you can enjoy local cuisine.

How does the pricing compare to the value?
Given the range of sites visited, expert guiding, and private transportation, many find this tour offers good value for a comprehensive, stress-free experience.

This 8-day private tour of Romania delivers a carefully curated blend of history, scenery, and authentic local culture. It’s best suited for those who want an immersive, well-organized adventure without sacrificing comfort or depth. Whether you’re exploring fairy-tale castles, discovering colorful villages, or learning about Romania’s recent past, this journey promises memorable moments and a genuine taste of this fascinating country.