Explore Romania – 14 Days Private Guided Tour

Exploring Romania in 14 Days: An Authentic Journey with a Local Touch

Imagine wandering through the cobbled streets of medieval towns, marveling at fairy-tale castles, visiting centuries-old wooden churches, and ending your adventure in the wild serenity of the Danube Delta. All of this is possible with a 14-day private guided tour of Romania, crafted for travelers who crave a personalized, in-depth experience. For just around $34 per day, this tour—operated by Touring Romania—takes you through some of the most breathtaking and culturally significant spots in this diverse country. The tour promises all entrance fees included and a private guide for a tailored, intimate experience, which many reviews highlight as a massive plus.

What we love about this tour? First, the expert guidance that makes history come alive, and second, the chance to see wildlife and natural landscapes up close, especially in the Danube Delta. These elements elevate it beyond a typical sightseeing trip. A potential consideration is the long itinerary, which means lots of travel in a relatively short period. This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy a busy, immersive schedule and appreciate detailed explanations from local guides.

If you’re someone fascinated by history, culture, and nature—and prefer a trip that balances sightseeing with authentic encounters—this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially appealing for those who want a carefully curated experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small group/private guide for tailored attention and local insights
• Diverse Sites: UNESCO World Heritage sites, castles, monasteries, and remote villages
• Cultural Immersion: Traditional meals, village visits, and local craftsmanship
• Natural Beauty & Wildlife: Danube Delta boat rides and birdwatching opportunities
• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable, fluent English-speaking guide makes history engaging
• Value & Comfort: All entrance fees included, with 3-star accommodations and transport

A Detailed Look at the 14-Day Romanian Adventure

Starting Off in Bucharest

The adventure begins in Bucharest, where your guide will meet you at the airport. Expect a warm welcome and a quick transfer to your hotel. If your arrival is early, you might get a chance to walk through the historic center and see landmarks like the Palace of the Parliament—a colossal building that’s an essential photo stop. The Village Museum offers a glimpse into rural traditional life, blending history with local crafts.

This initial day sets the tone for the trip—you’re introduced not just to sights but to the spirit of Romania’s complex history and lively culture. Reviewers often mention how the guides, like George, make these introductions engaging and personalized, setting a friendly tone for the days ahead.

Exploring Transylvania’s Medieval Charm

On day two, we head to Brasov, one of Romania’s most charming medieval towns. The journey includes a visit to Sinaia for a quick stop at the Peles Castle, a gem of European architecture with stunning turrets and lush surroundings. It’s a fairytale castle that looks as if it belongs in a storybook, and you’ll love the detailed tours inside.

In Brasov, the Old Town is perfect for wandering through narrow streets, discovering cozy cafes, and admiring Gothic architecture. Many travelers praise the tour’s flexibility—George is great at adjusting stops based on your interests. This part of the trip offers a delightful mix of history, architecture, and vibrant local life.

UNESCO Heritage and Saxon Villages

Next, we visit Sighisoara, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its well-preserved medieval citadel. Don’t miss the chance to climb the Clock Tower and walk the ramparts. On the way, you stop in Viscri, a tiny Saxon village home to a Fortified Church—a UNESCO site that offers a glimpse into rural life centuries ago.

The reviews highlight how the guides enhance these visits with stories and background, making history feel alive. The small villages, with their old stone houses and peaceful ambiance, give you a true sense of stepping back in time.

Discovering Sibiu and its Environs

Sibiu, another UNESCO site, is your next base. You’ll explore its Old City, with its colorful facades and lively plazas. The day includes a visit to Corvin Castle, which many call Romania’s most impressive fortress with a fairytale quality.

Your guide’s knowledge really shines here, filling you in on the castle’s history and legends. This part of the tour balances impressive sights with opportunities for authentic local meals, often homemade, that give a true taste of rural Romanian hospitality.

Maramures: Wooden Churches and Traditional Life

The journey continues toward Maramures, considered one of Romania’s most “back in time” regions. You’ll stop at Turda Salt Mine, a subterranean wonder, before arriving in Breb Village where you’ll stay in a traditional wooden house. The homestays, often with old furniture and homemade meals, make this part of the trip uniquely immersive.

Highlights include visiting Wooden Churches from Budesti, Desesti, Ieud, and Barsana—all UNESCO sites. The Merry Cemetery in Sapanta, with its colorful, humorous tombstones, offers a lighter, memorable experience. Many reviews mention how the guides explain local customs and traditions, helping you understand the rural way of life.

Steam Train in Maramures

One of the most praised activities is riding the Mocanita Steam Train through forests and remote villages. Reviewers say this “really shows you authentic rural life,” with plenty of wildlife and peaceful scenery. It’s a slow, relaxing way to connect with nature and local culture.

The Religious Art of Bucovina

Next, we move northeast to Bucovina, home to some of Romania’s most beautiful Painted Monasteries like Moldovita, Voronet, and Humor—all UNESCO sites. These monasteries are incredible for their vivid frescoes and spiritual significance. The guide explains their history and artistry, making each visit meaningful.

From Iasi to the Danube Delta

After exploring the monasteries, the tour heads to Iasi, Romania’s cultural hub in the east, then to the Danube River area. Starting from Tulcea, you transfer to Crisan Village in the Danube Delta, where boat rides give you a close-up look at an incredible array of bird species and wildlife.

The boat rides are often praised—many travelers comment on the wildlife sightings and peaceful landscapes that feel truly untouched. Watching the sunset over the delta from a boat is an unforgettable experience.

Wildlife and Natural Beauty in the Danube Delta

Spending a full day exploring the narrow channels and remote lakes of the delta, you’ll see a variety of birds and aquatic animals. The reviews repeatedly mention how this part of the tour offers a “paradise for birdwatchers” and a “close encounter with wildlife.” The boat rides are included, and the guided commentary helps you appreciate the ecosystem.

Wrapping Up and Return to Bucharest

On the final day, the journey back to Bucharest begins. The route offers scenic views and a chance to reflect on the diverse experiences—from medieval towns to wild wetlands. The tour concludes with a transfer to the airport, leaving you with a treasure trove of memories.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At a glance, the cost per day might seem modest, but the value comes from the all-inclusive entrance fees, private transport, and the knowledgeable guides. Many travelers mention how George and his team go beyond just pointing out sites—they tell stories, share local insights, and make the experience personal. The accommodations—mainly 3-star hotels and guesthouses—strike a good balance between comfort and authenticity.

The small group/private setup means you won’t be just another face in a large bus. Instead, you get the chance to ask questions, customize your interests, and form a more genuine connection with the places and people you meet.

Considerations for Travelers

The itinerary is packed and involves quite a bit of driving, especially in the Maramures and Bucovina regions. If you’re not comfortable with long days on the road, this might feel a bit hectic. Also, the Danube Delta portion is seasonal—available from May through September—so plan accordingly if you want that experience. For off-season visits, the Delta nights are swapped for other interesting locations.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, and anyone eager to see Romania with a local guide who genuinely cares about sharing authentic stories. It’s excellent for travelers who appreciate personalized attention and don’t mind a busy schedule. Those interested in UNESCO sites, medieval architecture, and wildlife will find this journey particularly rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
  The tour emphasizes authentic rural experiences and involves some walking and uneven surfaces, especially in villages and monasteries. If mobility is a concern, it’s best to discuss specific needs with the provider.

• Are all entrance fees included?
  Yes, all entrance fees to sites like castles, monasteries, and salt mines are included in the price.

• What kind of accommodations will I stay in?
  The tour features 11 nights in 3-star superior hotels or guesthouses and 2 nights in all-inclusive traditional guesthouses in the Danube Delta, all with double occupancy.

• When is the best time to do this tour?
  The Danube Delta portion is seasonal, available from May through September. Outside those months, the itinerary is adjusted to include other areas of Romania.

• How personalized is the experience?
  Since it’s a private tour operated with just your party, your guide can tailor some activities and stops based on your interests and pace.

• What is the typical group size?
  It’s a private tour, so only your group participates, ensuring a customized and intimate experience.

• Are meals included?
  Breakfast is included for most nights, with some dinners included during the Maramures stay, featuring traditional Romanian cuisine.

• What about transportation?
  Transport is by private, air-conditioned car or minivan, with driver/guide, making long drives comfortable and flexible.

Final Thoughts

This 14-day private guided tour of Romania offers a chance to explore the country’s highlights with a knowledgeable guide who truly loves sharing his homeland. From the medieval streets of Sibiu and Brasov to the remote wooden churches of Maramures, and finally to the bird-filled quiet of the Danube Delta, every step feels like a deep dive into Romania’s soul.

You’ll appreciate how much of the experience is about authentic encounters—whether it’s local villagers, historical sites, or wildlife in their natural habitat. The detailed planning, inclusive entrance fees, and private guiding make this a particularly valuable package for those wanting an all-encompassing, stress-free Romanian adventure.

If you’re eager to see Romania beyond the typical tourist spots, valuing genuine connections and stunning scenery, this tour will suit you perfectly. Just be prepared for a busy schedule—this is a whirlwind of sights and stories, but one packed with memorable moments.