Campulung is a fantastic base for exploring some of Romania’s most striking landscapes and unique experiences. What makes it particularly appealing is its proximity to the Făgăraș Mountains, the Transfagarasan Road, and the Danube Delta — each offering a different flavor of adventure. Whether you’re into wildlife, scenic drives, or birdwatching, you’ll find a tour that fits. We especially love the Făgăraș Mountains and Bear Watching Tour, which blends nature, history, and the thrill of spotting brown bears in the wild. For those seeking a more personalized experience, the Top Gear Road offers a private drive along one of the most famous routes in the world.
Campulung’s central location makes it easy to access these diverse adventures, whether you’re after a full-day excursion or a private tour that caters to your schedule. Our favorites include tours that combine breathtaking scenery with engaging activities, so you’ll leave with memorable stories and stunning photos.
1. From Bucharest: Făgăraș Mountains and Bear Watching Tour
Explore the Făgăraș Mountains on a guided day trip from Bucharest that’s perfect for nature lovers. This tour combines a visit to the Curtea de Argeș Monastery, a highlight for history and architecture buffs, with the chance to spot wild brown bears in their natural habitat – a rare treat for wildlife enthusiasts.
The day kicks off with a visit to the Curtea de Argeș Monastery, where you can admire its intricate frescoes and learn about its significance. Next, you’ll head to the Vidraru Dam, a monumental engineering feat, and enjoy spectacular views of Lake Vidraru. The highlight is the Făgăraș Mountains National Park, renowned for its rugged peaks and lush landscapes. Afterward, you’ll visit the Poenari Fortress, famously linked to Vlad the Impaler, giving you a taste of local legend along with panoramic views.
What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to see brown bears in the wild, a rare and special experience. The tour has a solid 4.7/5 rating from 12 reviews, with travelers praising the guides and the balance of cultural and natural sights. At around $81 per person, it offers excellent value for a full day packed with adventure.
Bottom line: If you’re after a mix of history, scenery, and wildlife, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s ideal for active travelers who want a comprehensive taste of the region.
2. 1 Day Private Tour of Famous Top Gear Road Transfagarasan
For those who love the thrill of a private road trip, this exclusive tour along the Transfagarasan Highway is unbeatable. Known globally thanks to the TV show Top Gear, this route is often called one of the most spectacular roads in the world, and we agree — it’s a must-see for car enthusiasts and scenery lovers alike.
The tour includes a private driver and vehicle, allowing you to relax and enjoy the views without worrying about navigation. Along the way, you’ll stop at the Vidraru Dam, admire the Capra Waterfall, and take a leisurely walk around Bâlea Lake, famed for its glacial beauty. The route winds through Carpathian mountain passes, offering dizzying vistas of rugged peaks and deep valleys.
This tour is particularly appealing because of its personalized approach; guides can tailor stops based on your interests. The reviews are equally compelling, with a 4.7/5 rating, emphasizing the flexibility and scenic highlights. The full-day experience runs about 10 hours, with availability varying, so planning ahead is wise.
Bottom line: If you prefer a customized, comfortable adventure with breathtaking scenery, this private tour is an excellent investment. It’s especially suited for travelers who want the flexibility to explore at their own pace.
3. Bucharest: Bear Watching Tour and Top Gear Road Day Trip
This full-day combo tour is perfect for those who want a diverse experience in a single day. Starting from Bucharest, it seamlessly combines wildlife viewing with the thrill of driving the famous Transfagarasan Road. It’s a great way to tick off multiple bucket-list items without multiple bookings.
The journey begins with a scenic scenic drive to the mountains, stopping at the Vidraru Dam for photos and exploration. Next, you’ll visit Bâlea Lake, with time for a walk and some snack breaks. The highlight is the chance to see wild brown bears, which adds an authentic wildlife encounter to the day.
The tour also includes stops for scenic views of the Carpathian Mountains and visits to Poenari Fortress, reinforcing the historical side of the region. This full-day outing costs $194 per person, with a 4.8/5 review score, indicating high satisfaction among travelers.
Bottom line: If you want a comprehensive day trip that mixes wildlife, scenic drives, and cultural sights, this tour offers great value and a memorable experience — perfect for travelers who want variety.
$194 per person
4. Bucharest: Transfagarasan Road, Famous & Spectacular
At number 4, this full-day tour is for those who want to experience the transcendent beauty of the Transfagarasan Highway with added historical highlights. Rated a perfect 5/5, it’s considered one of the most breathtaking drives in the world.
The itinerary covers the Vidraru Dam, Capra Waterfall, and Bâlea Lake, with plenty of stops for photos and short walks. You’ll also visit the Poenari Fortress, which offers a glimpse into Romania’s medieval past and Vlad the Impaler’s story. The tour includes scenic drives through mountain passes, with views that often leave visitors speechless.
What makes this tour stand out is the comprehensive itinerary and the fact that it returns you comfortably to Bucharest at the end of the day. The 12-hour trip balances sightseeing, driving, and relaxing breaks, making it ideal for travelers who want a thorough experience of the region’s natural and historical highlights.
Bottom line: For travelers seeking a well-rounded, scenic, and hassle-free day, this tour is a top choice, especially for those wanting to see the most iconic sights of the area.
$236 per person
5. SUPER TOUR: Day Trip to Danube Delta
For birdwatchers and nature lovers, this full-day trip to the Danube Delta is a true highlight. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Delta is one of Europe’s most important wetlands, teeming with bird species and unique landscapes.
Starting early from Bucharest, the tour involves a van ride through scenic countryside to Tulcea County. There, you’ll board a boat for a guided cruise along the intricate waterways of the Delta. Expect to see numerous bird species, including pelicans, herons, and cormorants, often in their natural habitat. The itinerary includes a break for coffee, and some tours allow for exploring local villages and markets.
Rated 4.8/5, travelers appreciate the expert guides and the chance to see an extraordinary ecosystem. The trip is perfect for those with an interest in wildlife, photography, or simply wanting an authentic nature experience far from city bustle.
Bottom line: If you’re keen to see rare birds and explore an UNESCO site, this trip offers a memorable, immersive experience. It’s best suited for nature enthusiasts and those willing to spend a day on the water.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your interests, budget, and travel style. For wildlife and culture, the Făgăraș Mountains and Bear Watching Tour is excellent. If your priority is a luxurious, private experience, the Top Gear Road tour provides flexibility and personalized stops. Want a full, scenic day with diverse sights? The Bucharest Transfagarasan or Duck Delta trips are perfect.
Think about time constraints: the full-day tours cover a lot, but if you prefer a shorter outing, the bear watching or private Transfagarasan options are more manageable. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred dates.
Final Thoughts
Campulung offers an impressive array of tours that showcase Romania’s mountains, roads, and wildlife. The Făgăraș Mountains and Bear Watching Tour stands out for its mix of adventure and nature, while the private Transfagarasan drive caters to those seeking comfort and customization. For wildlife and birdwatching enthusiasts, the Danube Delta trip is hard to beat.
Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or a nature lover, these tours provide a great way to experience Romania’s diverse landscapes. To get the most out of your trip, book early and choose the tour that matches your interests and pace. Romania’s natural beauty awaits — and these tours are your best ticket to discovering it.