Romanian Classical Tour

A new country awaits to be discovered—don’t miss this opportunity!

Romania, with its rich folkloric heritage, picturesque villages, and stunning landscapes, is a fascinating destination to explore. This tour showcases the country's highlights, including Transylvania’s mighty **fortified Saxon churches**, the exquisite **painted monasteries of Bucovina**, the charming wooden gates and churches of **Maramureș**, and Romania’s spectacular **castles and medieval towns**.

Throughout the journey, you'll encounter villages that seem frozen in time, resembling life from the 19th century, as well as modern cities with impressive architecture. You'll experience a unique blend of cultures—Romanian, Saxon, Hungarian, Szekler, Armenian, and Jewish—all coexisting harmoniously.

This trip offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience in a country unlike any other. Romania is the only Latin-speaking Orthodox nation, a rare combination in the world. We’ve chosen this special period for you to experience the traditions of Romania in **Maramureș**, the most conservative and culturally rich region in the country.

Day 1

Sibiu

Upon arrival, meet your guide for a transfer to your hotel. After settling in, enjoy a short walking tour of the city to get a glimpse of its charm. Before dinner, your guide will give a brief presentation about the journey ahead, sharing insights on **Transylvania** and the many fascinating experiences it has to offer.

Day 2

Sibiu and its Surroundings

Today, we will continue our exploration of **Sibiu**, the **Cultural Capital of Europe in 2007**. Afterward, we’ll visit the **Astra Village Museum**, the largest and best-preserved open-air museum in Romania, just outside the city.

Next, we’ll visit the **Michelsberg Basilica**, where we’ll enjoy a taste of **typical Saxon cuisine** for lunch.

In the afternoon, enjoy free time for shopping and discovering more of Sibiu at your leisure.

In the evening, we’ll have a special **dinner with a Romanian family**, featuring local wine and **țuică** (the famous plum brandy).

Day 3

Sibiu - Alba Iulia - Cluj - Vadu Izei (Bella Doina)

After breakfast, we’ll depart for Maramureș, traveling through Cluj-Napoca, a city known for its rich cultural and scientific heritage (approximately 350 km, about a 6-hour drive). We’ll stop for lunch along the way.

In Cluj, we’ll visit the 18th-century Fortress, the oldest example of Baroque secular architecture in Transylvania. We’ll also explore Unirii Square, home to the Saint Mihail Cathedral, the most iconic Gothic monument in Cluj. You’ll also see the statue of Avram Iancu, the leader of the Romanian Revolution in Transylvania in 1848.

After arriving at Bella Doina Pension, a peaceful retreat in the heart of Maramureș, we’ll enjoy dinner and settle in for the night.

Day 4

Penticostal Day in Maramures

Experience the charm of traditional life as it should be. This morning, we’ll visit local artists and craftsmen, exploring villages to discover a **traditional watermill**, a **plum brandy maker**, and a **hatter**. Lunch will be served at **Maria’s house**, offering an authentic taste of local cuisine.

For those interested in more historical and cultural sites, we can take an optional visit to the **Communist Prison** in **Sighet** or the famous **Merry Cemetery** in **Săpânța**.

In the afternoon, we’ll return to **Doina’s** for dinner and accommodation.

Today, two major feasts will be celebrated in the village, offering a unique opportunity to witness hundreds of locals dressed in **traditional costumes** attending **church services** in the morning. The long and meaningful religious ceremonies mark an important event in village life, providing an unforgettable cultural experience.

Day 5

Maramures - Bucovina

After breakfast, we’ll embark on a full-day journey to the fascinating region of **Bucovina**. Along the way, we’ll visit several remarkable sights, starting with the **Bogdana Church**, a wooden church dating back to 1710, followed by the **Bârsana Monastery**, a newer yet impressive wooden structure.

We’ll stop for a quick lunch in **Borșa**, a local winter sports resort. Afterward, we’ll continue to the village of **Ciocănești**, known for its unique **painted houses** that reflect local artistry.

By the evening, we’ll arrive in **Gura Humorului**, where we’ll stay for two nights at the **4-star Hotel Roata**. Dinner will be at your leisure, with free time to relax at the hotel.

Day 6

Painted Monasteries in Bucovina

Today is dedicated to exploring the famous **painted monasteries** of Bucovina. After breakfast, we’ll visit a **local artist** who specializes in **Easter egg painting**. She will demonstrate her technique, and you’ll even have the chance to try your hand at this traditional art form.

Next, we’ll continue to **Moldovița Monastery**, where we’ll meet **Sister Tatiana**, who will guide us through the stunning frescoes. Afterward, we’ll enjoy a traditional lunch at the monastery.

In the afternoon, we’ll visit **Sucevița Monastery**, followed by a stop at a **local artist’s family**, renowned for their **black ceramics**. You’ll have the option to watch a live demonstration or return to the hotel for some relaxation.

The evening is free, giving you time to practice your egg painting skills. Overnight at **Hotel Roata**, with dinner at your leisure.

Day 7

Bucovina - Bicaz Gorge - Miercurea Ciuc - Brasov

After breakfast, we’ll set off for **Brașov**, passing through the stunning **Bicaz Gorge**, one of Romania’s most unique landscapes. We’ll make a stop to take pictures and enjoy the beautiful scenery, with a lunch option at **Murder Lake** (Lacul Roșu).

In the afternoon, we’ll continue our journey through the **Hungarian region**, where you’ll notice a different style of **wooden gates** that reflect the local culture.

We’ll arrive in **Brașov** late in the afternoon. After checking in at a **3-star+ hotel** in the city square area, you’ll have the evening free to explore and enjoy dinner at your leisure.

Day 8

Brasov and Surroundings

Today, we’ll begin by visiting the iconic **Dracula Castle** in **Bran**, followed by a tour of the magnificent **Peleș Castle**, the former summer residence of Romania's kings. Both castles offer fascinating insights into Romania's history and architecture.

For lunch, we’ll head to a special location in the **Prahova Valley**, where we’ll indulge in a **champagne tasting**, featuring sparkling wine produced using the traditional **champenoise method**, considered the finest in Romania.

In the afternoon, we’ll return to **Brașov**, where the day will end with a **special dinner** accompanied by **classical music** at the historic **citadel**.

Day 9

Brasov - Viscri - Sighisoara - Sibiu

Today is dedicated to exploring the **old Saxon area**. We’ll start with a drive to **Viscri (Weißkirch)**, where we’ll enjoy a special **Saxon-style lunch**. Here, we’ll meet and chat with the **mayor**, a Saxon woman, and her mother, who will share insights into their unique dialect and the power of community organization. You’ll also learn about the efforts of **Prince Charles’ Foundation** to preserve this rich cultural heritage.

Be prepared to sample some **exceptional plum brandy** and **local wines**, renowned in this region.

On the way back, we’ll stop in **Sighișoara**, the only **inhabited medieval citadel** in Europe and often referred to as the "Rothenburg of Eastern Europe." After exploring the charming town, we’ll continue to **Sibiu**, where you’ll stay at the same old hotel.

We’ll finish the day with a memorable **farewell dinner**, celebrating the end of this exceptional journey.

Day 10

Departure according to your flight details.

**Services Included**:

Accommodation in 3* hotels
Meals and special meals as outlined in the program
Professional English-speaking guide
English documentation on cultural sites visited
Transfers by 3* minibus or bus