Bucharest: 8-Day Transylvania & Moldavian Monasteries Tour

Experience the Charm of Romania in 8 Days: Transylvania and Moldavia Awaits

If you’re craving a journey through fairy-tale castles, centuries-old monasteries, and towns steeped in history, this 8-day Transylvania & Moldavian Monasteries tour offers it all. For around $658 per person, you’ll explore medieval cities like Sibiu and Brasov, stand in awe at Bran Castle, known as Dracula’s castle, and marvel at the colorful painted monasteries of Bucovina. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the trip is designed to balance leisurely sightseeing with moments to absorb Romania’s authentic atmosphere.

Two things we particularly love: First, the opportunity to walk through Sighisoara’s medieval streets, where Vlad the Impaler was born, and to enjoy a traditional carriage ride—a charming way to experience small-town life. Second, the visit to Voronet Monastery, renowned for its vivid blue frescoes, offers a visual feast and a chance to see some of the most striking religious art in Eastern Europe.

A potential consideration? The itinerary involves quite a bit of moving—covering castles, monasteries, and scenic drives—so travelers who prefer a slow, relaxed pace might find it a bit packed. But if you’re eager to soak in Romania’s diverse sights, this tour packs a punch.

This trip is ideal for history buffs, architecture lovers, and anyone interested in experiencing Romania beyond the capital city. It’s suitable for those who enjoy guided tours and are comfortable with active days that include walking, driving, and some sightseeing at a quick pace.

Key Points

• Diverse Destinations: Visit iconic castles, medieval towns, and painted monasteries.
• Authentic Experiences: Includes a carriage ride and folkloric dinner, enriching the culture.
• Balanced Itinerary: Combines scenic drives with plenty of sightseeing, perfect for those who like variety.
• Expert Guidance: Led by a professional guide throughout, ensuring you don’t miss hidden gems.
• Value for Money: For $658, accommodations, guide, transport, and some meals are included.
• Scenic Views: Expect breathtaking landscapes from the Bicaz Gorge to Red Lake.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the 8-Day Journey

Day 1: Arrival in Bucharest

We start in the Romanian capital, where your guide meets you at Bucharest Airport. The evening begins with a welcome dinner—an excellent chance to get acquainted with your fellow travelers and learn more about the itinerary ahead. Staying overnight in Bucharest allows for a relaxed start and some time to adjust after your flight.

Day 2: Exploring Bucharest, Sibiu, and Bazna

The scenic drive from Bucharest to Sibiu takes you through the Olt River Valley, offering lovely views along the way. We particularly enjoyed the stop at Cozia Monastery, one of Romania’s oldest religious sites, which gives a peaceful introduction to the country’s spiritual heritage.

In Sibiu, a former European Capital of Culture, you’ll find cobbled streets, colorful houses, and landmarks like the Liars Bridge and the Orthodox Cathedral. We loved wandering through the city’s charming squares, soaking up its blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture.

Ending the day in Bazna, a quaint spa town, means you’ll have a peaceful overnight stay. The small-town vibe here is a welcome break from busier cities and offers a chance to relax.

Day 3: Saxon Heritage and Medieval Sighisoara

The morning takes us to Biertan, home to one of the most impressive fortified churches—an iconic symbol of Transylvania’s Saxon past. It’s fascinating to see how these structures served both religious and defensive purposes.

Next, we explore Sighisoara, a true highlight. This UNESCO-listed town is a living museum with narrow alleys, ancient towers, and the house where Vlad the Impaler was born. We loved the Gothic and Renaissance architecture and the chance to stroll through history. The carriage ride to Boians fortified church adds a fun, old-world touch to the day.

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Day 4: Transition to Bucovina and Monastery Visits

Crossing into Bucovina feels like stepping into a different world, with its lush landscapes and religious heritage. Before leaving Transylvania, we stop in Targu Mures to admire its Grand Orthodox Cathedral and Culture Palace—both striking examples of architecture.

The visit to Bistrita with its tall church tower is another highlight. We loved the sense of stepping back in time here. The day ends at Moldovita Monastery, famous for its vibrant frescoes, which are a visual feast and essential for understanding Romania’s religious art.

Day 5: Famous Painted Monasteries and Scenic Drives

The Voronet Monastery is a must-see—its frescoes, especially the vivid blue known as Voronet blue, are breathtaking. We found ourselves gazing at the detailed biblical scenes that seem almost alive.

Driving through the Bicaz Gorge, with its steep cliffs and rushing river, is one of the most scenic parts of the trip. We also enjoyed a stop at Red Lake—a picturesque spot formed in 1838, perfect for photos and enjoying nature’s quiet beauty.

Day 6: Medieval Brasov and Harman

In Brasov, founded by the Teutonic Knights, history feels alive. The Black Church dominates the skyline, and we appreciated wandering along Rope Street, one of Europe’s narrowest streets. The city’s medieval walls and towers give you a sense of what life was like centuries ago.

Later, a visit to Harman’s fortified church adds another layer to the Saxon story. It’s a quiet spot but historically significant as a refuge for villagers. Returning to Predeal, you get to unwind in the mountain air.

Day 7: Dracula’s Castle and Royal Splendor

The day’s highlight is undoubtedly Bran Castle, often called Dracula’s Castle—although Dracula himself never lived there, the legend adds a fun, spooky vibe. The castle’s dramatic setting and its historic rooms are worth exploring.

Next, the impressive Peles Castle in Sinaia showcases royal opulence with its ornate architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens. It’s the kind of place that makes you feel like royalty yourself.

The day concludes back in Bucharest with a festive dinner at “Hanul lui Manuc”, featuring local folklore, music, and a lively atmosphere—an authentic way to celebrate the journey.

Day 8: Bucharest’s Highlights and Farewell

Your final day includes a guided tour of Bucharest’s main landmarks—the Palace of Parliament, Village Museum, and the Patriarchal Church. Walking through the city’s grand boulevards, you’ll feel the pulse of Romania’s modern history and vibrant culture. The visit to the Triumphal Arch caps off the sightseeing before heading back to the airport.

What’s Included and What’s Not?

For the price of $658, the tour offers seven nights in comfortable 3- and 4-star hotels, with half-board meals—breakfasts and dinners. The guide, transportation by a modern coach, luggage handling, and some special experiences like the carriage ride and folklore dinner are all included.

You’ll want to budget for personal expenses, such as souvenirs or extra snacks, but overall, the value is solid considering the depth and quality of sights covered.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This trip offers a well-rounded look at Romania’s historical, cultural, and scenic highlights. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy guided group travel, want to see a diverse range of sites without the hassle of planning logistics, and are comfortable with a fairly packed schedule.

If you’re drawn to medieval towns, fairy-tale castles, and colorful monasteries, and don’t mind some time on the road, this tour provides a rare opportunity to experience Romania’s treasures in just over a week. It balances essential sightseeing with authentic touches, like the folkloric dinner and carriage ride, that make the journey memorable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of accommodation is included?
You’ll stay in a mix of 3- and 4-star hotels, chosen for comfort and proximity to key sights.

Is transportation modern and comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses a modern coach or minibus, fully equipped for a pleasant ride throughout the trip.

Are meals included?
Half-board means breakfast and dinner are provided, giving you a good taste of local cuisine, while lunch and personal snacks are on you.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility.

How many people are in a group?
While not specified, guided tours typically run with a manageable group size—ideal for personal attention and socializing.

Are there any physical activity requirements?
Most sightseeing involves some walking through towns and monasteries, but it’s generally manageable for most travelers.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Italian, German, and Spanish, accommodating diverse travelers.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, many solo travelers find group tours like this a good way to explore with companionship and guided insight.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing for variable weather, and a camera to capture those stunning views.

In summary, this 8-day journey offers a thoughtfully curated mix of history, culture, and scenery, making it a fantastic way to experience Romania’s highlights without the stress of planning every detail yourself. Whether you’re captivated by fairy-tale castles, enchanted by religious frescoes, or simply want to enjoy scenic drives through lush landscapes, this tour hits the spot. It’s especially well-suited for travelers eager to see the country’s diverse treasures in a structured, engaging format.

You can check availability for your dates here: