Romania UNESCO Sights Tour
Discover Romania's most iconic UNESCO World Heritage sites on this captivating tour. Explore medieval fortresses, ancient monasteries, and breathtaking landscapes that showcase the country's rich history and cultural heritage. From the painted monasteries of Bucovina to the fortified churches of Transylvania, this tour offers a deep dive into Romania's most treasured landmarks.
Day 1
Bucharest
After arriving in Bucharest, we will head to the Horezu region to visit the renowned Horezu Monastery, a masterpiece of the Brancoveanu style, which influenced regional art in the 18th and 19th centuries. Founded in 1690 by Prince Constantin Brancoveanu, the monastery is adorned with stunning wall paintings and rich decorations.
We’ll also visit a traditional "Cula"—a fortified house typical of the region—and stop by a workshop to observe the creation of Horezu ceramics, a craft for which the area is famous.
Overnight stay in a unique hotel in the region.
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Day 2
Horezu - Transalpina - Alba Iulia
Today, we conquer our first mountain peak. After breakfast, we embark on a drive along the Transalpina Road, Romania’s highest and most famous high-altitude road. Stretching 146 km through the Carpathian Mountains, the road reaches its highest point at Pasul Urdele, 2,145 meters above sea level. Known locally as "Drumul Regelui" or "The King’s Road," the Transalpina was originally built under King Carol II and inaugurated in 1938. It was later rebuilt by German troops during World War II but remained largely inaccessible until recent years. This breathtaking route offers some of the most spectacular views in the Carpathians.
Along the way, we’ll stop at a traditional shepherd’s property, where you’ll have the opportunity to taste rich sheep’s milk and homemade cheese. You’ll also learn how these products are made, experiencing firsthand a way of life that has endured for generations in this region.
In the late afternoon, we arrive in Alba Iulia, home to one of Europe’s largest and most beautiful Vauban citadels. Lovingly restored with EU contributions, the citadel is famed for its historical significance as the place where, on December 1, 1918, Transylvania declared its unification with Romania, and where King Ferdinand was crowned in 1922. Overnight in Alba Iulia.
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Day 3
Alba Iulia - Cluj Napoca - Maramures
After breakfast, we depart from Alba Iulia and head toward Cluj-Napoca, the historical capital of Transylvania and one of Romania’s most important cultural and economic hubs. The city’s Baroque architecture lends a distinctive charm to its central buildings. We’ll visit the Fortress of Cluj, offering panoramic views over the city. Built in the 18th century, it is the oldest monument of Baroque secular architecture in Transylvania. The city’s rich history is centered around Unirii Square, dominated by the Saint Mihail Cathedral, the most significant Gothic monument in Cluj. Nearby, the Orthodox Cathedral, built between 1923 and 1933, showcases a blend of Romanian and Byzantine architectural elements.
On our way to Maramureș, we’ll stop at Surdești, home to one of the region's UNESCO-listed wooden churches. These churches are outstanding examples of vernacular wooden architecture, blending Orthodox traditions with Gothic influences in a masterful display of local craftsmanship. The Church of the Holy Archangels, built in 1767, exemplifies the pinnacle of Maramureș's wooden church design, with its double canopy, superposed windows, and a towering bell tower from the 19th century. You’ll also have the chance to visit local artisans, including a traditional hat maker, a plum brandy producer, and see a unique village washing machine, immersing yourself in Maramureș’s rich cultural heritage.
Overnight in Maramureș.
Day 4
Maramures
As you may have noticed, the villages of Maramureș are renowned for their unique wooden churches, with tall spires and shingled roofs, and their intricately carved gates. Wood has long been the primary medium of artistic expression in this region, as seen in the elaborately carved eaves, entryways, and windows of local houses. The artisans' skill is also evident in the hand-woven carpets and intricate embroidery adorning the traditional folk dresses still worn by the locals.
We’ll begin our day with a visit to the famous Happy Cemetery in Săpânța, known for its colorful tombstones and witty epitaphs. In nearby Sighetu Marmației, we’ll explore a local market and visit the Memorial to the Victims of Communism, where we’ll learn about the arrival of communism in Romania and the profound impact it had on the country.
Next, we’ll visit the village of Desești and continue to Breb, where you’ll have the opportunity to photograph the region’s iconic carved gates, wooden houses, and local people. Even Prince Charles of Wales was captivated by these villages and has purchased several houses in the area.
In the late afternoon, as the light becomes ideal, we’ll visit the impressive wooden church in Budești, built in 1643. At that time, local Romanian Orthodox communities were prohibited from constructing stone churches, so they mastered the art of building from wood. Many of these remarkable wooden churches, including this one, have stood the test of time and are now designated UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Day 5
Maramures - Bucovina
In the morning, we’ll visit the impressive monastic complex in Bârsana, a striking ensemble of wooden buildings with high-pitched Gothic-style towers, all designed in the traditional Maramureș architectural style. The complex’s interiors are equally captivating, and if we’re lucky, we may witness nuns leading a prayer service in the church.
Later, we’ll explore some of the region's centuries-old crafts still practiced today. We’ll meet a local woodcarver, renowned for crafting the distinctive wooden gates that Maramureș is famous for. He has also invented a method for carving a chain from a single block of wood, which we’ll have the chance to see in action.
We’ll then transfer to Bucovina, passing through Ciocănești, where we’ll see typical villages adorned with traditional wooden gates and houses featuring a unique design.
Crossing the Carpathian Mountains, we’ll enter Bucovina, with its picturesque hills and winding roads offering breathtaking views, ideal for photography. You’ll have several opportunities to capture the stunning landscapes, especially during the golden hours of the day.
We’ll arrive in Gura Humorului for the night, staying in a special pension where you’ll have the chance to experience traditional houses that are over 100 years old.
Day 6
Bucovina
Next, we’ll visit the studio of a true artist, a woman renowned for her intricate egg painting, a traditional craft unique to this region. Her detailed work has gained international recognition, making this a special stop on our journey.
Following this, we’ll explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites: the painted monasteries of Moldovița, Sucevița, and Voroneț. These monasteries are often compared in artistic value to the mural paintings of San Marco in Venice or the Church of Orvieto. The secret behind the vibrant and enduring colors used by the Moldavian painters remains a mystery, passed down through generations.
Known as “Painted Churches,” these monasteries are frescoed from top to bottom, both inside and out. The painters, often local priests or monks, created intricate scenes following Orthodox iconography. Occasionally, teams of lay artists would travel from site to site, developing and refining the traditional designs.
We will return to our charming accommodation for the evening.
Day 7
From Bucovina towards Transylvania
Today, we leave Bucovina and head to the enchanting yet often misunderstood region of Transylvania. On our way, we’ll stop at Agapia Monastery, the largest convent in Romania, home to over 500 nuns. Here, we’ll visit the monastery’s workshops and learn about the traditional craftsmanship of icon painting, as well as other artisanal work.
We’ll then embark on a scenic drive through the breathtaking Bicaz Gorges, one of Romania’s most striking landscapes. Along the way, we’ll stop for a photo session at Red Lake (also known as Murder Lake), the largest natural mountain lake in Romania, named for the reddish alluvium deposited by Red Creek.
Next, we’ll immerse ourselves in a unique cultural experience with a Gypsy/Roma family, where you’ll get a firsthand look at their way of life and traditions, offering a rare glimpse into this often misunderstood community.
Arriving in Sighisoara, we’ll take a tour of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded by Transylvanian Saxons in the 12th century, Sighisoara is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe, boasting nine towers, cobbled streets, burgher houses, and ornate churches. The town’s atmospheric charm rivals that of Old Prague or Vienna. It is also the birthplace of Vlad Dracula (Vlad Tepes), the historical figure who inspired Bram Stoker’s fictional Count Dracula.
Overnight in Sighisoara.
Day 8
Sighisoara - Fagaras - Brasov
After breakfast, we depart Sighisoara and drive through picturesque Old Saxon villages, where time seems to stand still. Along the way, you’ll witness traditional rural life, with landscapes dotted by sheep, water buffaloes, and cows freely roaming dirt roads. Horse-drawn carts, charming old houses, and stunning medieval fortified churches, some of which are UNESCO sites, provide a glimpse into the past.
By midday, we’ll arrive in Făgăraș and visit the Medieval Citadel, built in the 14th century. Here, we’ll enjoy a special lunch, sampling traditional Romanian dishes while hearing stories of the local efforts to preserve Romania’s culinary heritage.
In the afternoon, we arrive in Brașov, once the richest and most important city in Transylvania. By the 15th century, Brașov was the largest town in the principality, with trade links stretching to the Middle East. Known for its melancholic beauty, the city’s rust-colored roofs contrast beautifully with the surrounding forested hills. We’ll explore Piata Sfatului, a vibrant square often used for concerts and festivals, and visit the Schei District, considered the oldest part of Brașov. We’ll also see the Catherine Gate, dating back to the 16th century, which reflects Renaissance influences.
Overnight in Brașov
Day 9
Brasov - Bran Castle - Peles Castle - Bucharest
After breakfast, we’ll visit The Black Church in Brașov, the largest and most significant Gothic-style monument in Romania. Built between 1383 and 1477, it earned its name after a devastating fire in 1689. This imposing structure is the largest Gothic church east of Vienna and boasts several records: the largest organ in Romania, the heaviest bell (weighing over 6 tons), and the most valuable collection of oriental carpets dating from the 7th-8th centuries.
Next, we’ll visit Dracula’s Castle in Bran, where many tourists hope to catch a glimpse of the feared vampire's shadow. This fortified Gothic-style castle, built in the 14th century, was a key defense against Ottoman invasions and also served as a customs post. The castle’s museum displays a rich collection of Romanian and foreign furniture and art from the 14th-19th centuries.
Our next stop will be the resort town of Sinaia, known as the “Pearl of the Carpathians.” Here, we’ll visit the famous Peleș Castle from the outside. This fairy-tale castle, built in 1875, was the summer residence of Romania’s Hohenzollern royal family and is regarded as one of the most beautiful castles in Southeast Europe. Peleș was also the first European castle to be fully lit by electricity, thanks to its own hydroelectric plant on the banks of the Peleș Creek.
We will conclude the day with our arrival in Bucharest, where you’ll check into a 4-star hotel for your stay.
Day 10
Departure Home
Depending on your flight schedule, we can arrange a city tour of Bucharest or visit key landmarks such as the impressive Parliament Palace, the second largest administrative building in the world, or the Village Museum, an open-air museum showcasing traditional Romanian village life and architecture
Optional: 2-Day Tour to the Danube Delta
Extend your adventure with a 2-day tour to the Danube Delta, Romania’s only natural UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore this pristine ecosystem, home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including over 300 species of birds and unique aquatic habitats. Enjoy boat tours through the Delta's intricate network of channels, lakes, and wetlands, experiencing the untouched beauty of this remarkable natural area..