Romania
Romania is far more than just the land of Dracula; it’s a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty that often goes unappreciated. While many people immediately think of Transylvania and the famous legend of Dracula, the country is filled with picturesque landscapes, ancient Saxon churches, UNESCO-listed fortified churches, and magnificent castles that seem plucked straight from a fairy tale. Beyond the well-known myths, Romania’s charm lies in its quiet, charming villages, vast natural parks, and rich heritage, offering a delightful mix of cultural and scenic wonders.
The capital city, Bucharest, is a striking blend of old-world charm and modern vitality. Once referred to as ‘Little Paris’, it retains traces of French influence in its grand boulevards and districts designed by French architects. Walking through Bucharest, visitors can admire its impressive neoclassical buildings, tree-lined avenues, and beautiful parks. The city’s vibrant cafe culture and eclectic architecture add to its unique atmosphere, making it an intriguing place to explore before venturing into the heart of Romania.
Just a short drive from Bucharest lies the medieval town of Brașov, a charming town surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains. Its main square is flanked by historic buildings, including the 15th-century Council Hall, a stunning example of medieval architecture. Brașov is also home to the famous Black Church, a gothic masterpiece. A short distance from the town stands the imposing Bran Castle, widely known as the setting for the Dracula legend. Though its connection to the fictional vampire is tenuous, the castle’s dramatic appearance and fascinating history make it a must-see landmark in Romania.
Essential Information
BEST TIME TO VISIT
SUMMER – Great for the beach!
SPRING & AUTUMN – Great for exploring, city breaks in Bucharest and Brasov.
FLIGHT TIME
Around a 3 hour flight from the UK
TIME ZONE
GMT/BST +2
CURRENCY
Leu
IDEAL FOR
People who have a sense of adventure, looking especially for a tour, but a little less far away from home.
HOW TO GET THERE
Low-cost airlines now have connections to nearly every airport in Romania. There are flights to Bucharest from every London airport, as well as regional service to Sibiu, Targu Mures, Cluj and Iasi from Luton with WizzAir.
LANGUAGE
Romanian
IDEAL TO COMBINE WITH
Bucharest is a great city break destination, combine with a little Dracula or a beach stay on the coast.
Our Favourite Places in Romania
Suggested Itineraries
Culture and Cuisine of Transylvania
5 day holiday
Brasov, Sibiu, Viscri, Zarnesti
This five-day Culture & Cuisine of Transylvania tour begins with a direct flight to Brasov, where you’ll discover the city’s medieval charm on a guided tour, visiting landmarks such as the Black Church and exploring its rich cultural heritage. Highlights include a visit to the Libearty Bear Sanctuary in Zarnesti to see rescued bears in a natural setting, a tour of the legendary Bran Castle, and a tasting of Palinca, a traditional Romanian brandy. After a night in Sibiu, the journey continues with a visit to a Roma community and a hands-on Romanian cookery class, before moving on to the UNESCO-listed fortified church at Biertan and the beautiful medieval town of Sighisoara.
On the return to Brasov, the tour stops in the village of Viscri, where traditional crafts and local ways of life are carefully preserved. Here you’ll sample local specialities, explore the fortified church, and enjoy the charm of a truly authentic Transylvanian village. A visit to Ferma Catean offers a chance to taste some of Romania’s finest cheeses before heading back to Brasov for a final night. Throughout the trip, there’s a thoughtful balance of cultural exploration, historic sites, culinary experiences, and local encounters, making it an ideal short break for anyone wanting a deeper look at this fascinating region.
Transylvania Castle Experience
6 day holiday
Zalanpatak, Vargyas Gorge, Brasov, Bran Castle
This six-day Experience Transylvania at Castle Daniel tour offers a deep dive into the region’s gothic history, medieval towns, and natural beauty, all while staying in a 17th-century castle turned boutique hotel. Starting with a visit to the famous Bran Castle, linked to the Dracula legend, and a guided walk through Brasov’s charming Old Town, the itinerary also includes an exploration of the Vargyas Gorge, where gentle hikes reveal caves, rich wildlife, and pristine forest landscapes. Guests can expect to spot signs of local wildlife and learn about the diverse ecosystems that make this part of Romania so remarkable.
Further highlights include visits to some of Transylvania’s UNESCO-listed Saxon fortified churches at Biertan and Viscri, and a trip to the beautifully preserved medieval town of Sighisoara. A 4×4 off-road adventure takes guests to Zalanpatak, a secluded village where the King owns a guesthouse, showcasing his commitment to preserving Transylvania’s biodiversity. Throughout the stay at Castle Daniel, there’s a strong focus on comfort, authenticity, and an unhurried pace, allowing plenty of time to absorb the atmosphere and traditions of this magical corner of Europe.
Cultural Landscapes of Romania
8 day holiday
Bucharest, Sibiu, Sighisaora, Brașov, Bran Castle
The Cultural Landscapes of Romania tour offers an eight-day tailor-made exploration of Transylvania’s most captivating cultural and historical landmarks, accompanied by a private driver-guide throughout. Beginning in Bucharest with a city tour including the Parliament Palace, the journey continues through the dramatic Transfagarasan Road (seasonal) or the Olt Valley. Highlights include visits to the impressive Gothic Corvin’s Castle, the recently restored citadel of Alba Iulia, and the medieval towns of Sibiu and Sighisoara, rich in Saxon heritage and UNESCO-listed architecture.
The tour also features stops at fortified churches such as Biertan, the hilltop Rupea Fortress, and the vibrant Saxon villages of Viscri, Crit, or Saschiz. In Brasov, guests will discover the famous Black Church and enjoy free time to explore the city’s charming squares and streets. Visits to the imposing Rasnov Fortress and the legendary Bran Castle, associated with the Dracula myth, are included, along with a sparkling wine tasting at a royal cellar in Azuga. Before returning to Bucharest for the final night, the group tours the stunning Peles Castle, once the Romanian Royal Family’s summer residence.
Bucharest, Baths and Bears
4 day holiday
Bucharest, Brasov
The Bucharest, Baths & Bears tour offers a four-day escape blending city life, relaxation, and Transylvanian adventure. Start in Bucharest, where guests can explore the lively Old Town and marvel at grand architecture. A full day is dedicated to unwinding at Therme Bucharest, Europe’s largest wellness centre, with access to mineral-rich thermal pools, saunas, and lush tropical gardens. The tour includes private transfers throughout, ensuring a smooth and relaxing experience.
On day three, the focus shifts to the natural beauty and legends of Transylvania. Accompanied by a private guide, visit the Zărnești Bear Sanctuary to see over 100 rescued brown bears living in a natural forested setting. Then, explore the iconic Bran Castle, often linked to the Dracula myth, before heading to Brașov for a walking tour of its medieval heart. Guests return to Bucharest for a final overnight stay, wrapping up a short but memorable blend of relaxation, wildlife encounters, and cultural discovery.
Transylvania Wildlife and Nature Experience
5 day holiday
Brasov, Bran Castle, Fagaras Mountains
The Transylvania Wildlife & Nature Experience offers a captivating five-day adventure through the enchanting landscapes of Romania. Starting in Brașov, explore the vibrant city before heading to the Libearty Bear Sanctuary, a haven for rescued brown bears. The journey also includes a visit to Bran Castle, steeped in Dracula legend, and a tour of Brașov’s historic landmarks. Along the way, enjoy authentic Romanian cuisine and immerse yourself in the region’s natural beauty, with a focus on wildlife conservation.
The tour offers a thrilling mix of outdoor experiences, including bison tracking in the Făgăraș Mountains and hiking through the breathtaking Piatra Craiului Mountains. An immersive wild bear watching experience at a secluded hide completes the adventure, allowing guests to observe these magnificent animals in their natural habitat. This tour is ideal for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone interested in Romania’s rich cultural and ecological heritage.
Romania Fly-Drive Holiday
10 day holiday
Brasov, Bucharest, Sighișoara, Bucovina, Cluj Napoca, Sibiu
The Romania Fly-Drive Holiday offers a 10-day journey through the heart of Romania, allowing travellers to explore the country’s rich culture, history, and scenic beauty at their own pace. Beginning in Bucharest, the itinerary takes in key landmarks like the Parliament Palace, then continues through Transylvania’s castles and medieval towns, including Sibiu, where visitors can admire Germanic architecture and visit the famed Corvin Castle. The tour also explores Cluj Napoca, Bucovina’s painted monasteries, and the charming town of Sighisoara, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The tour includes visits to several iconic landmarks, such as Bran Castle, famously linked to Dracula, and the picturesque Peles Castle in Sinaia. Along the way, travellers will experience scenic drives through the Olt Valley, the Bicaz Gorge, and the Red Lake, as well as explore the therapeutic Turda Salt Mine. This self-drive holiday provides a flexible and immersive exploration of Romania’s diverse landscapes, historic sites, and cultural wonders, allowing for a relaxed yet enriching experience in one of Europe’s most fascinating regions.
Notes from The Journal
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01442 879787
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