Cluj Napoca is a fantastic base for exploring Romania’s wine-rich regions and historic sites. While the city itself is known for its lively atmosphere and vibrant culture, the surrounding countryside offers some truly memorable wine experiences. We especially appreciate tours that combine local history with wine tastings, like the Sighisoara, UNESCO & wine tasting trip, which blends medieval legends with a glass of Transylvanian wine. These experiences give you more than just a taste of local wines—they’re an immersion into Romania’s cultural tapestry, with stops at centuries-old fortified churches and UNESCO sites.
If you’re trying to decide which wine tour suits your interests, this guide compares three top options. Whether you want a full-day historical adventure, a scenic drive with a wine tasting, or a deep dive into Transylvania’s fortified churches and charming towns, there’s something here for every traveler.
Quick Overview
Our list covers three highly-rated wine-focused tours departing from Cluj Napoca:
– Sighisoara, UNESCO & wine tasting – a 12-hour day exploring medieval Sighisoara and Biertan with wine tasting included.
– Sighisoara & wine tasting – a 10-hour journey combining scenic drives, Dracula stories, and wine tasting in Sighisoara.
– Sibiu, UNESCO & wine tasting – a 12-hour small-group tour visiting Sibiu, fortified churches, and a vineyard for wine sampling.
Each tour offers a different experience—some focus more on history and architecture, others emphasize scenic landscapes and local wines. Now, let’s take a closer look at each.
1. Sighisoara, UNESCO & wine tasting
Starting with a full-day trip from Cluj, this tour hits two of Transylvania’s most famous sites: Sighisoara, a beautifully preserved medieval citadel, and Biertan, a UNESCO World Heritage fortified church. The tour lasts around 12 hours and is perfect for history lovers who want to soak up medieval stories and legends. You’ll explore the Sighisoara Clock Tower and climb the Church on the Hill, gaining sweeping views of the town. The guides here focus heavily on Romania’s medieval past and Saxon architecture, offering rich context for your visit.
After exploring Sighisoara, you’ll head to Biertan, where the fortified church served as a religious and defensive stronghold for centuries. The architecture is impressive, and the stories behind its walls are captivating. What makes this tour stand out is its combination of history, architecture, and local culture, all wrapped into one day. The tour ends with time to enjoy a local lunch, rounding out a comprehensive experience. The price is around $156 per person for an authentic, well-organized day out. The reviews are glowing—rated 5/5 based on four reviews—highlighting the knowledgeable guides and the richness of the sites.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for history buffs and those interested in medieval Romania, with an added bonus of wine tasting in a region famed for its fortified churches.
2. Sighisoara & wine tasting
For a shorter yet equally engaging day, the Sighisoara & wine tasting tour offers a 10-hour experience packed with scenic drives, storytelling, and wine. It’s perfect if you prefer a lighter schedule or want to combine sightseeing with wine tasting. This trip features a guided walk through Sighisoara, where you’ll learn about its legends, including the Dracula connection, and explore the UNESCO-listed citadel.
Afterward, you’ll visit a local vineyard—where you get to taste three distinct Transylvanian wines—and enjoy the lush landscape that covers the region. The tour has received top reviews, with one customer calling their guide “incredible” and praising the educational aspect of the trip. The small-group setting ensures personalized attention, making it a flexible and intimate experience.
This tour balances cultural exploration with the chance to sample regional wines, making it suitable for those who want a deep dive into both. It departs from Cluj and finishes with drop-offs in the city, making it convenient for travelers staying nearby.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in combining Dracula legends, scenic views, and wine tasting without a long day, this tour is a smart pick.
3. Sibiu, UNESCO & wine tasting
Finally, the Sibiu tour is another full-day adventure, focusing on Sibiu’s medieval charm and the countryside of Marginimea Sibiului. It offers a smaller group with a more personalized atmosphere. Starting early from Cluj, you’ll explore the medieval city of Sibiu, walking through its colorful squares, ancient fortifications, and visiting the Liar’s Bridge and the Evangelical Church. An optional climb offers stunning views of the city and mountains.
In the afternoon, after a traditional lunch, you’ll visit a local vineyard to try three types of Transylvanian wine. The highlights include the UNESCO-listed Calnic Fortress, a fortified church built by Saxon settlers, and the countryside’s peaceful rolling hills. This tour emphasizes authentic local experiences and includes all entrance fees and transportation, making it a good value at around $133 per person.
Rated 5/5 from two reviews, travelers praise the knowledgeable guide and the unique sites most visitors don’t see, making it ideal for culture and architecture enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: This tour is well-suited for those wanting to combine Sibiu’s medieval sights, fortified churches, and a relaxed vineyard visit—all in a small-group setting.
How to Choose
When selecting a wine tour from Cluj Napoca, consider your interests and schedule. If you’re passionate about medieval history and architecture, the Sighisoara, UNESCO & wine tasting offers a deep dive into Romania’s past. For a more casual tasting experience combined with captivating stories about Dracula, the Sighisoara & wine tasting is ideal. If your focus is on Sibiu’s architecture and authentic local wines, then the Sibiu, UNESCO & wine tasting provides a fantastic small-group outing.
Think about your budget, available time, and whether you prefer a full-day adventure or a shorter visit. Also, booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot on these popular excursions.
Final thoughts
Cluj Napoca offers a wonderful mix of historic sites, charming towns, and scenic vineyards. For history lovers, the Sighisoara, UNESCO & wine tasting tour tops the list for its comprehensive exploration of medieval Transylvania. If you’re more about local wines and Dracula stories, the Sighisoara & wine tasting tour hits the mark. For a more intimate experience, the Sibiu, UNESCO & wine tasting tour provides a relaxed, small-group outing with fewer crowds.
No matter which tour you choose, you’ll get a taste of Romania’s rich culture, stunning scenery, and excellent wines. Booking early will ensure you don’t miss out—these tours are popular for a reason.