Bucharest: Taste the Magic of Wine in Romanias Tuscany

Exploring Romania’s Dealul Mare wine region, often called the “Tuscany of Romania,” offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty, history, and excellent wine. This full-day tour from Bucharest takes you on a journey through lush vineyards, modern wineries, and charming countryside within about 100 km from the city. Led by engaging guides, you’ll visit La Certa and Budureasca, both known for their quality and innovation. Expect to sample between 3 and 6 wines at each stop, with the option to indulge in a traditional Romanian lunch afterward.

What makes this experience particularly appealing is the chance to see Romania’s winemaking tradition firsthand while enjoying beautifully maintained landscapes. We’ve always appreciated how La Certa combines cutting-edge technology with a respect for tradition, producing award-winning wines that reflect modern excellence. Meanwhile, Budureasca offers a sense of history and terroir, balancing tradition with innovation to give a genuine taste of Romanian terroir.

One aspect to consider is that the wine tastings are optional and paid separately, which means you can tailor your experience depending on your interest and budget. Also, since the trip runs about 10 hours, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a full day on the road, and those eager to indulge their wine curiosity.

In short, this tour is ideal for wine lovers, curious travelers wanting to see Romania’s countryside, or anyone keen to combine scenic beauty with authentic tastes. It’s a well-balanced mix of culture, nature, and culinary delights.

Key Points

• Two top wineries: La Certa with modern techniques, and Budureasca with tradition.
• Wine tasting: 3 to 6 wines at each winery (cost not included), offering variety and insight into Romanian wines.
• Scenic drive: About 2 hours each way, providing plenty of time to enjoy the countryside.
• Optional lunch: Authentic Romanian cuisine, perfect for completing the experience.
• Expert guidance: An English-speaking sommelier enhances the understanding and appreciation.
• Full-day experience: Around 10 hours, suited for those ready for a day of exploring.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Close Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transport

Your day begins with a pickup in Bucharest, where a comfortable vehicle, typically a limousine, transports you smoothly into the Dealul Mare wine region. The drive takes around two hours, giving you a chance to settle in, enjoy the scenery, and perhaps chat with your guide about what to expect. The roads are well-maintained, and the landscape is dotted with rolling hills and vineyards, setting the perfect tone for a wine-focused day.

First Stop: La Certa Winery

Arriving at La Certa, you’ll be greeted by a state-of-the-art facility that marries modern winemaking technology with traditional practices. The guided tour will walk you through the production process, offering insight into how award-winning wines are crafted. We loved the way La Certa balances innovation with respect for tradition—it’s a winery that clearly takes pride in both its products and its story.

The tasting session here usually includes 3 to 6 wines (prices vary from 70 to 200 Romanian Lei per person), which you can enjoy while taking in the beautiful landscape. The wines are made from both local and international grape varieties, giving you a taste of Romania’s versatility in winemaking. Guests often comment on the high quality and flavor complexity of the wines, even if you’re not a seasoned connoisseur.

Second Stop: Budureasca Winery

Next, you’ll visit Budureasca, a winery that boasts a long-standing history and a reputation for producing wines with perfect balance. The setting here is equally stunning, often described as charming and authentic. The focus on terroir—the land’s unique qualities—shines through in each glass, making it a favorite among visitors who value authenticity and craftsmanship.

Here, the wine tasting again includes 3 to 6 wines, allowing you to sample the true character of the Romanian terroir. Many reviewers appreciate how Budureasca manages to blend tradition with innovation, creating wines that are both familiar and exciting.

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Lunch and Leisure

After these tastings, you have the option to enjoy a traditional Romanian lunch, featuring local dishes that complement the wines perfectly. The meal is an excellent way to round out the experience, providing a taste of local culture and cuisine. If you’re not interested in lunch, the guide can simply escort you back to Bucharest, making it a flexible part of the itinerary.

Return Journey

The return trip lasts approximately two hours, giving you plenty of time to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights. Some travelers choose to nap, while others enjoy the scenic views and chat with fellow wine enthusiasts.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The real charm of this experience lies in the combination of scenic beauty, modern and traditional wineries, and the authentic taste of Romanian wines. You’ll get a glimpse into Romania’s winemaking culture, which is less commercialized but increasingly innovative. The stunning views of rolling vineyards and lush countryside provide an idyllic backdrop that stays with you long after the tour ends.

The guides, especially if led by a knowledgeable sommelier, enrich the experience by explaining both the technical aspects of winemaking and the cultural significance of each wine. This makes it more than just a tasting—it’s a genuine introduction to Romania’s wine identity.

Potential Drawbacks

One consideration is that wine tastings are paid separately, so your total cost depends on how many wines you sample. If you’re on a tighter budget, you might want to limit your tastings or skip lunch altogether. Plus, since the tour lasts about 10 hours, it’s better suited for travelers who enjoy full-day excursions and don’t mind spending a lot of time on the road.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a wine aficionado or simply curious about Romanian wines, this tour offers a well-rounded look at the region’s best. It’s perfect for those who enjoy scenic drives, want to learn about wine production, and love tasting a variety of wines in beautiful surroundings. It’s also suitable for travelers who appreciate authentic experiences—whether that’s the modern flair of La Certa or the traditional charm of Budureasca.

However, those with mobility issues or pregnant travelers should note that the tour involves long periods of sitting and tasting wines, which may not be suitable. Also, if you prefer a more relaxed, less structured day, you might find this tour a bit intensive.

The Sum Up

This wine tour from Bucharest offers a compelling mix of scenery, culture, and taste. You’ll visit two distinct wineries—each showcasing Romania’s craftsmanship and innovation—and get to enjoy some of the finest wines in the region. The optional Romanian lunch adds a flavorful touch, making it a complete culinary experience.

For travelers who value authenticity and scenic beauty alongside wine appreciation, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for those eager to explore Romania’s “Tuscany,” taste its wines, and see the countryside in a comfortable, guided setting.

If you’re ready for a day of beautiful views, excellent wines, and cultural discovery, this tour is a balanced and rewarding choice.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for wine beginners?
Absolutely. The guides are knowledgeable and the tastings are designed to be educational and enjoyable for all levels. You can sample wines at your own pace, and the guides will help explain what makes each wine special.

How much should I budget for wine tastings?
The tastings are not included in the tour price and cost between 70 and 200 Romanian Lei per person, depending on how many wines you choose to sample. It’s a good idea to budget accordingly if you plan to enjoy multiple wines at each winery.

Can I skip the lunch?
Yes, lunch is optional. If you prefer to head straight back to Bucharest, your guide can arrange that. Otherwise, the meal is a nice way to experience local cuisine.

How long does the entire tour last?
Expect around 10 hours from pickup to return, including travel, winery visits, tasting time, and lunch if you choose.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the journey is in a limousine or similar comfortable vehicle, making the long drive enjoyable rather than tiresome.

Are the wineries accessible for people with mobility issues?
The information provided does not specify accessibility details. If mobility is a concern, it’s best to contact the tour provider in advance to verify.

This wine tour offers a thoughtfully curated experience of Romania’s best vineyards and scenic countryside. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or just eager to enjoy a beautiful day outside Bucharest, it provides a well-balanced taste of the region’s culture, cuisine, and natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: