Bucharest isn’t just about Stalinist architecture and lively nightlife; it’s also a surprisingly good base for wine touring. Romania’s wine scene is often overlooked but is deeply rooted, with thousands of years of viticulture and some excellent boutique wineries nearby. Whether you’re after intimate tastings at cozy wine bars or full-day trips exploring famous castles and underground salt mines, Bucharest has options suited for all tastes and budgets. One of our favorites is the Salt Mine, Lunch at Winery, and Dracula Grave Private Tour, which combines underground salt caverns with legendary Dracula sites and wine tasting—an unforgettable way to spend a day.
For those after a pure wine experience in the city, the Bucharest: Private Wine Tasting Experience offers a relaxed, curated tasting of Romanian wines in the charming Old Town. If you prefer exploring the countryside, guided full-day trips to the Dealu Mare wine region or Bucharest’s surrounding vineyards provide an immersive look into Romania’s wine traditions.
Quick Overview
Our list includes private full-day tours that combine natural wonders and castles, like tours to the Salt Mine and Dracula’s tomb, as well as shorter city-based tastings at local wine bars. Many tours include unique experiences such as underground salt caverns, village museums, and visits to historic castles, all with the option to sample some of Romania’s best wines. For example, the Peles & Cantacuzino Castles: Gourmet Wine & Cultural Day trip pairs castle tours with wine tastings, offering a comprehensive day for history and wine enthusiasts alike.
Below, we’ll walk you through each of the top options, highlighting what makes each one special and who it’s best suited for.
1. Salt Mine, Lunch at Winery and Dracula Grave – Private Tour
This private 9-hour tour mixes underground adventure with history and wine. You’ll descend into the Slanic Prahova salt mine, the largest in Europe, where the salt chambers feel like walking inside a cathedral carved from salt. Then, visit Snagov Monastery, a site connected to the Dracula legend, where Prince Vlad’s supposed grave rests on an island. Between these highlights, enjoy Romanian wine and local delicacies at a carefully chosen country cellar. What sets this tour apart is the combination of natural wonder, myth, and authentic wine tasting—all with a private guide and transport. Guests praise the guide’s knowledge and the experience of exploring a massive underground salt cavern. It’s perfect for history lovers, those craving a full-day adventure, or anyone wanting to experience the less touristy side of Romania.
Bottom Line: An immersive, private experience that brings Romania’s legends and natural beauty together with wine tasting, ideal for curious travelers willing to spend a full day.
2. Bucharest: Private Wine Tasting Experience
For around $58, this 2-hour private experience focuses entirely on Romania’s wine culture right in the city. Starting at Abel’s Wine Bar, you’ll sample a curated selection of Romanian wines from small local wineries. The ambient setting allows for relaxed conversation, and the staff’s knowledge enhances your understanding of regional varieties. Guests love the carefully selected wines and the opportunity to taste high-quality reds, whites, and rosés. It’s a great choice for those short on time but eager to gain a taste of Romania’s wine diversity without leaving Bucharest. Plus, the cozy atmosphere makes it suitable for wine novices and seasoned connoisseurs alike.
Bottom Line: An excellent urban wine experience that offers a snapshot of Romania’s winemaking, perfect for a quick, relaxed evening or afternoon.
3. Wine Tasting in Bucharest
This 4.5-star rated wine tasting is one of the most popular in Bucharest, with 157 reviews praising its authenticity and variety. Over approximately 2 hours, you’ll explore Romania’s 6,000-year viticultural history while tasting over 100 labels, including reds, whites, and rosés from Romanian vineyards worldwide. Hosted at an authentic wine bar, the tour offers insights into Romanian grapes and wine-making traditions. Participants appreciate the educational component and the opportunity to buy discounted bottles. It’s perfect for wine travelers wanting a comprehensive introduction to Romania’s wine landscape with the chance to purchase souvenirs.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded, educational wine tasting that combines local wines with fascinating stories, ideal for those wanting more than just a sip.
4. Traditions in Bucharest: Village Museum and Wine Tasting Tour
This private 5-hour tour offers a blend of culture and wine. You’ll begin at Dimitrie Gusti’s Village Museum, viewing authentic peasant houses, watermills, and churches from across Romania, each telling a story of regional architecture. Afterward, relax at a historic Bucharest wine bar, tasting four Romanian wines paired with local cheeses and sausages. The tour is highly praised for the personalized attention and the chance to learn about Romanian traditions along the way. It’s best suited for travelers interested in culture and wine in a relaxed setting, with plenty of time to explore and ask questions.
Bottom Line: A charming cultural and wine experience, suited for those who want a taste of Romanian folk life combined with excellent local wines.
5. Wine Tasting in Bucharest long version
For $65, this extended 2-hour tasting at Abel’s Wine Bar offers a deeper dive into Romanian wines. You’ll sample five premium local wines, paired with a cheese and meat platter, plus a traditional Tuica shot at the end. Guests love the generous pours and the informative guide, who shares stories behind each wine. It’s a good value for those wanting a more immersive experience, especially since they offer discounts on bottles purchased. This tour is perfect for couples or small groups seeking a comprehensive wine experience with a cozy atmosphere.
Bottom Line: A substantial tasting with excellent value, suited for those wanting to deepen their understanding of Romanian wines in a friendly setting.
6. Salt Mine, Lunch at Winery, Dracula Grave – Private Tour
This day-long private tour combines Romania’s natural and cultural highlights, including the Unirea Salt Mine, country wine cellar, and Dracula legend at Snagov Monastery. The underground salt caverns are the main attraction, but the tour also highlights Romanian culture and history, with visits to village wineries and Dracula’s reputed tomb. Guests praise the personalized experience and the variety of sights. It’s ideal for history and myth enthusiasts or travelers wanting a full-day immersion into Romania’s diverse landscape and traditions.
Bottom Line: An all-in-one adventure perfect for curious travelers who want history, legends, and wine all in one day.
7. Peles & Cantacuzino Castles: Gourmet Wine & Cultural Day trip
This 8-9 hour small-group tour explores two of Romania’s most stunning castles, Peles and Cantacuzino, with guided tours and a wine and cheese tasting at Cantacuzino. The visit includes German Renaissance architecture, Byzantine monasteries, and exquisite furnishings. Guests appreciate the personalized touch from guides and the chance to enjoy Romanian wines in a historical setting. It’s perfect for those interested in culture, architecture, and gourmet food.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive cultural and wine experience suited for history and architecture lovers who also enjoy fine wine.
8. Salt Mine, Muddy Volcanoes, and Wine Tasting Private Day Tour
This full-day private tour offers a mix of natural phenomena and wine, visiting the Unirea Salt Mine, the bubbling Muddy Volcanoes of Buzau, and Lacerta Winery. The salt mine alone is impressive, but the geothermal cones provide a surreal landscape. Guests also get to taste Romanian wines at Lacerta Winery. The tour is ideal for adventure seekers and nature lovers, with personalized attention and a carefully curated itinerary.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a diverse day exploring underground, geothermal landscapes, and wine, all with a private guide.
9. Bucharest: Romanian Wine Tasting Experience at Corks
This cozy, 1.5-hour tasting at Corks offers a curated journey through Romania’s most distinctive wines, including Busuioaca de Bohotin rosé. The host, Ovi, shares engaging stories, making it a relaxed but informative experience. Reviewers appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and the variety of wines on offer. It’s ideal for a short, intimate tasting in the heart of Bucharest’s Old Town, perfect for wine newcomers or those wanting a quick taste of Romania’s winemaking.
Bottom Line: A compact, friendly introduction to Romanian wines in a welcoming setting, ideal for a casual evening.
10. From Bucharest: Dealu Mare Wine Tasting Tour
This 10-hour tour takes you through Dealu Mare, Romania’s “Bordeaux”, famous for rich reds. You’ll visit two boutique wineries, taste 12 wines, and enjoy a guided tour with artisanal cheese and charcuterie. Guests say the scenery is spectacular, and the guide, Bogdan, is praised for his deep knowledge and personable approach. This tour is best suited for wine enthusiasts interested in premium reds and those who want to experience village landscapes while indulging in wine.
Bottom Line: A day of premium wine tasting perfect for lovers of bold reds and scenic vineyard views.
11. From Bucharest: Romanian Wine Tasting Tour
This 8-hour trip covers two prominent Romanian vineyards in Buzau County. With small group size, you’ll enjoy guided tours and tastings of local wines while soaking in the tranquil scenery of sub-Carpathian hills. The guide’s engaging commentary makes it an educational experience. Reviewers highlight the excellent wines and the informative guide. It’s especially suitable for travelers wanting an authentic countryside wine experience with a relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: An authentic and intimate wine tour in the Romanian countryside, perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape.
12. Bucharest: Romanian Wine and Food Pairing Experience
For a 2-hour culinary journey, this experience pairs Romanian wines with traditional food. You’ll taste local grape varieties alongside home-cooked dishes in a cozy setting. Reviewers mention the personalized service and the delicious pairings. It’s ideal for foodies and those interested in Romanian gastronomy alongside wine.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a short, delicious introduction to Romanian wine and cuisine in a relaxed environment.
13. Traditions in Bucharest: Village Museum and Wine Tasting
This 4.5-hour private tour combines historic village architecture with a wine tasting of three local varieties. Starting at the Village Museum, you see authentic peasant homes and churches, then move to a local wine bar for tasting Feteasca Neagra and Negru de Dragasani. Guests enjoy the personalized guide and the chance to learn about regional traditions. It’s a good pick for culture and wine lovers wanting a leisurely afternoon.
Bottom Line: A relaxed, culturally rich wine experience with a focus on local folklore and authenticity.
14. Salt Mine, Lunch at Wine Cellar and Dracula’s Tomb – Small group
This 9-hour small-group tour takes you underground into the largest salt mine in Europe, with a tour of the tunnels and a planetarium show. Afterwards, enjoy lunch at Casa Seciu Winery and visit Dracula’s legendary tomb. Guests praise the personal touch and the variety of sights, perfect for those who want a full day of history, natural wonders, and wine. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive day suitable for history, legend, and nature enthusiasts who prefer a more personal tour.
15. Romanian Wine Tasting
This 8-hour full-day tour visits notable wineries across Romania, with guided tours and tastings of premium wines. Guests appreciate the expert guide and the chance to sample different varieties like Feteasca Neagra and Busuioaca de Bohotin. It’s great for serious wine lovers who want a detailed look at Romania’s wine regions with structured visits.
Bottom Line: A full-day journey into Romania’s best wines, ideal for enthusiasts wanting depth and variety.
16. The Salt Mines, The Winery, The Muddy Volcanoes! The Fixers Private Tour
This private 11-12 hour tour offers a mix of underground salt caves, volcanic landscapes, and wine tasting. Starting at the largest salt mine, then visiting a Romanian winery, and ending at the Muddy Volcanoes, this trip covers diverse landscapes and experiences. Reviewers mention the personalized service and the variety of sights, making it perfect for adventure seekers wanting a day full of natural wonders and wine in comfort.
Bottom Line: An all-encompassing private tour ideal for travelers craving variety and personalized attention.
How to Choose the Best Wine Tour in Bucharest
When selecting the right wine tour, consider your budget, time, interests, and fitness level. For full-day adventures with castles and legends, tours like Salt Mine, Lunch at Winery and Dracula Grave or Peles & Cantacuzino Castles provide a mix of culture, history, and natural sights. If your focus is simply sampling Romanian wines in a relaxed setting, the Bucharest: Private Wine Tasting or Corks Wine Tasting are perfect.
For those with limited time, city-based tastings are affordable and convenient, while full-day trips suit travelers eager to explore Romania’s landscapes and legends. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and experience.
Final Thoughts
Bucharest offers a surprising variety of wine experiences—from intimate city tastings to full-day tours featuring castles, salt mines, and legends of Dracula. For a full immersion into Romania’s winemaking, options like the Dealu Mare wine tour or castle and wine days deliver both quality and scenery. If you want a quick taste, city-based experiences like Corks are ideal.
Whether you’re a passionate wine connoisseur, a history buff, or just a curious traveler wanting a different perspective on Romania, these tours will deepen your appreciation of the country’s diverse landscape and cultural richness. Remember to book early, especially for the popular private and full-day tours, to ensure you get your preferred date and experience.
Happy sipping, exploring, and discovering Romania’s hidden wine treasures!