Bucharest is a city that packs surprises into a relatively small footprint. While known for its grand Parliament Palace and lively old town, the real magic lies in the day trips and extended tours that take you beyond the city limits. Whether you’re into medieval castles, scenic drives, or exploring nearby countries, Bucharest offers a variety of full-day experiences. We particularly enjoy the full-day trip to Dracula’s Castle, Peles, and Brasov, which combines fairy-tale castles with charming medieval towns—the kind of experience that makes Romania unforgettable. These tours give you a window into the country’s history, legends, and countryside, making them a fantastic choice for those wanting a well-rounded day outside the city.
In this guide, we’ve compiled the 16 best full-day tours in Bucharest, from local explorations to cross-border excursions into Bulgaria. Each offers a different perspective—some focus on Romania’s iconic castles, others explore Bulgaria’s ancient streets, and some provide a private, tailored experience. Whatever your interests, there’s something here to help you turn a day in Bucharest into a memorable adventure.
1. From Bucharest: Dracula Castle, Peles & Brasov Full-Day Trip
This highly-rated 12-hour tour takes you through the heart of Transylvania. For only about $22, you’ll visit Bran Castle, famously linked to Dracula, and Peles Castle, which is often hailed as one of Europe’s most beautiful royal residences. The trip includes a guided tour of Brasov, one of Romania’s most picturesque medieval cities. The tour guide, Stefan, is praised for his knowledge and humor, making this long day feel quick. The itinerary balances scenic drives with quality time at each site, including free time for lunch and shopping. With a 4.7/5 rating from nearly 8,000 reviews, travelers value the storytelling and seamless organization. Perfect for anyone eager to see Transylvania’s legends, castles, and towns in one comprehensive day.
Bottom Line: This trip hits the highlights and is great for first-timers wanting a full Transylvania experience without overnight stays.
2. From Bucharest: Full-Day Trip to Bulgaria
This 12-hour journey explores Bulgaria’s medieval capital, Veliko Tarnovo, and includes a visit to Ruse, a city with a touch of Central European grandeur. For $56 per person, the trip offers a chance to learn about Bulgarian history and culture from guides like Narcis, who is known for his lively storytelling. The highlights include Tsarevets Fortress, the symbol of Veliko Tarnovo, and scenic stops at the Arbanasi village for panoramic views. The reviews note the comfort of the bus and the depth of historical insights. It’s a solid option for those interested in stepping outside Romania for a taste of Bulgaria’s heritage, with a touch of adventure crossing borders.
Bottom Line: This tour balances history, scenery, and culture, making it ideal for travelers curious about Bulgaria’s medieval past.
3. Bucharest: Peles Castle, Bran Castle, & Brasov Full-Day Tour
On this 12-hour trip, you’ll explore Peles Castle, Bran Castle, and the town of Brasov. Starting around $31, it includes guided tours and free time at each location. The guide provides enriching stories, especially about Vlad the Impaler and the Dracula legend at Bran Castle. Guests love the well-organized schedule, which maximizes sightseeing without feeling rushed. The visit to Brasov offers a charming stroll through its historic streets. Travelers note the trip’s value, as it combines three major sites for a reasonable price and with detailed commentary.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting an all-in-one transylvanian castle experience with a friendly guide and good pacing.
4. Dracula’s Castle, Brasov and Peles Full-Day Tour from Bucharest
This 12-14 hour tour is a classic choice for fairy-tale lovers, blending visits to Peles Castle, Bran Castle, and Brasov’s medieval streets. For just under $20 a person, it offers guided tours of both castles, with time to explore Brasov’s Black Church and old town. The itinerary is well-paced, and reviews commend the experienced guide and driver team, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. The trip is especially suited for travelers wanting a comprehensive, cost-effective day with plenty of photo opportunities and local stories.
Bottom Line: An excellent budget-friendly option for exploring Romania’s legendary castles and towns in one long, fulfilling day.
5. Bucharest: Peles & Dracula’s Castle and Brasov Full-Day Trip
Costing around $31, this tour combines the magnificent Peles Castle, Dracula’s Castle, and the stunning streets of Brasov. It’s ideal for history lovers who want an immersive experience, including guided castle tours and free time for shopping and sightseeing. The guide’s stories about Romanian culture and legends enhance the visit, and reviews highlight how smoothly everything runs, even with a long day. The trip offers a great snapshot of Transylvania’s highlights at a reasonable price.
Bottom Line: Recommended for travelers who want a detailed, guided exploration with a well-organized schedule.
6. Full Day Trip to Bulgaria from Bucharest
This 12-hour trip, costing about $91, takes you into Bulgaria to visit Veliko Tarnovo and Ruse. Expect a comfortable coach ride through scenic landscapes, with stops at Tsarevets Fortress and Arbanasi village. Guides like Elena share stories about Bulgaria’s medieval and cultural history, making it a rewarding cross-border experience. The reviews reflect a well-organized day, despite minor delays, with many travelers appreciating the chance to see Bulgaria’s architecture and vibrant towns.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those wanting to combine Romanian and Bulgarian highlights in one day, with a focus on history and scenic drives.
7. Bucharest and Beyond Private Full-Day Tour
This private 8-hour tour, at $139 per person, is perfect if you prefer a tailored experience. It covers Bucharest’s top sights like the Palace of Parliament, Village Museum, and Mogosoaia Palace, plus a visit to Snagov Monastery, believed to be Vlad the Impaler’s burial site. The guide personalizes the itinerary based on your interests, making it a flexible, intimate way to see both city highlights and countryside secrets. Reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge and friendly manner, making it a worthwhile splurge.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a personalized, flexible day with expert guiding.
8. Transylvania: Cultural Full-Day Trip by Minivan
This 12-hour trip, around $426 for up to 2 people, offers an in-depth cultural experience of Sinaia, Peles Castle, Bran Castle, and Brasov. The minivan allows for a small group environment, with a guide sharing stories about Romania’s landscapes and history. Guests love the personalized touch and the opportunity to see multiple castles and towns without feeling rushed. The trip is ideal for those wanting a more intimate experience and are comfortable with a higher price point.
Bottom Line: For travelers seeking a detailed, small-group exploration with cultural insights and scenic drives.
9. 8h Bucharest full-day Tour, Parliament and Top Attraction, Private
This 8-hour private outing for $188,55 per person offers a focused deep-dive into Bucharest’s key sites like the Palace of Parliament, Revolution Square, and the Old Town. It’s perfect for travelers who don’t want to spend days but still want a thorough introduction to the city’s most iconic landmarks with a personal guide. Reviewers appreciate the flexibility and attention to detail, often mentioning the guide’s thorough knowledge.
Bottom Line: Ideal for visitors with limited time who want a personalized, comprehensive city overview.
10. Full-Day Private Tour to Sinaia, Bran, and Brasov
This 6-8 hour private tour, costing about $240 per person, is tailored for a relaxed, yet comprehensive experience. It covers Sinaia, Bran Castle, and Brasov, with a carefully planned itinerary to maximize sightseeing without rushing. Perfect for families or small groups who want flexibility and personal attention. The guide customizes the stops based on your interests, and reviews highlight the smooth organization and engaging commentary.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want a private, flexible day exploring Romania’s most famous castles and towns.
How to Choose the Right Full-Day Tour in Bucharest
Selecting the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend outside the city. For those eager to see Romania’s castles and medieval towns, the Dracula, Peles, and Brasov or full-day trips to Bulgaria are top picks. If you prefer a more personalized experience, consider a private tour or private day trip. Budget travelers should note the value in guided tours that include transportation and entrance fees, like the full-day Dracula tour.
Think about your fitness level—some trips involve walking through old towns or castles— and whether you prefer an organized group or a private experience. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season from spring to autumn.
In summary, Bucharest offers an impressive variety of full-day tours that open up Romania’s treasures—castles, medieval towns, and even neighboring Bulgaria. For classic sights and legends, the Dracula, Peles, and Brasov trip remains a favorite. Those seeking a more intimate experience might love the private guided tours, while travelers with limited time can cover the highlights in just a day. Booking early ensures you get the best options for your Romanian adventure.