Discover the Orthodox World by Living It
Despite 50 years of harsh communism that led to the destruction of some Romanian churches and monasteries, and Ceausescu's aggressive campaign against the church in the 1980s, many sacred sites have survived in varying conditions. Since 1990, many have been restored or reopened.
During this journey, we will visit several monasteries, some lesser-known yet each with something unique to offer. You will encounter both ancient and modern places of worship, where centuries-old traditions have remained virtually unchanged. Life in these monasteries continues as it has for over a thousand years.
You will stay overnight in the monasteries, share meals with the nuns and monks, and engage in conversations where you can ask any questions. By living alongside them, hearing their stories, and witnessing their way of life, you'll gain a deeper understanding of the beauty of the Orthodox world. This is a chance to enjoy simplicity, healthy eating, and to relax both body and soul, far from the stresses of daily life.
This is not just a tour—it's an experience.
While it may not be the most impressive from an art and history perspective, the true value lies in the profound interactions you'll have with the local people and the monks and nuns who call these monasteries home.
Day 1
Arrival in Jassy
Direct transfer to the Neamt area, followed by a unique dinner and overnight stay—either at the serene Varatec Convent or the historic Neamt Monastery, offering an authentic experience.
Day 2
Explore the renowned monasteries of the Neamt area, including Varatec, Agapia, Neamt, Sihla, Sihastria, and Secu.
Enjoy a free lunch, followed by an exclusive dinner with high-ranking figures from the monastery. The Neamt region is one of the most significant centers of Orthodox spirituality in Romania, if not the most important. Its crown jewels are the Neamt Monastery, deeply tied to the country's Orthodox leadership, and the sister convents of Agapia and Varatec, home to nearly 1,000 nuns. During your visit, you’ll witness their traditional crafts, experience their way of life, and gain insight into their profound beliefs.
Day 3
Discover the famous Bucovinean monasteries of Voronet and Humor
Known for their vibrant and unique exterior frescoes. Voronet, with its renowned "Voronet blue," stands as the most impressive, comparable to Tiziano’s red and Veronese’s green. Enjoy a free lunch before heading to Vorona Monastery for an overnight stay and dinner with the nun abbot. Your time at Vorona will be enriched by fascinating conversations with the abbot, making this experience one of the highlights of your journey.
Day 4
Vorona – Visit Probota Church, Miclauseni Monastery, and Vladiceni Monastery (Iasi)
Begin the day with a visit to the historic Probota Church before continuing to Miclauseni Monastery, where you’ll enjoy lunch with the nun abbot. From there, we head to Vladiceni Monastery in Iasi for dinner and overnight accommodation.
Today’s journey will uncover the lesser-known monasteries of the Iasi region, offering a unique richness not typically included in major cultural tours. Iasi, the former seat of the Moldovan Metropoly and the heart of Orthodox spirituality in the Moldovan Principality, holds many hidden treasures. Just outside the city, we’ll explore a small Neo-Gothic castle built by the prestigious Strudza family. Miclauseni, surrounded by English-style gardens, was once famed for its monastery, rare art, books, and religious collections. The castle also served as the summer residence of Alexandru Ioan Cuza, the visionary leader who unified Wallachia and Moldavia, laying the foundation for modern Romania.
Day 5
Iasi City Tour and Farewell Dinner at Vladiceni Monastery
Spend the day exploring Iasi, the historical, economic, and cultural heart of Northeast Romania. Highlights include a visit to the impressive Metropolitan Cathedral, the architectural masterpiece of the Three Holy Hierarchs Monastery, and the grand Culture Palace. For those interested, an optional visit to a nearby monastery can be arranged. In the evening, enjoy a special farewell dinner at Vladiceni Monastery, where you’ll be treated to a blessed meal and a surprise performance of Byzantine Church music by a student choir from the Theological University of Iasi, creating a memorable and spiritual conclusion to your journey.
Day 6
Departure back home
Services Included:
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Minibus with driver at your disposal throughout the trip
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English-speaking guide available at all times
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Meals as outlined in the program
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Accommodation in monastery guesthouses with 3-star hotel amenities
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Small gifts for the monasteries included
Price:
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€849 per person (based on twin room occupancy)
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€138 single supplement