Romania Tour - Grandeur of Bucharest and Tales of Transylvania

Day 1 - UK - Bucharest

Our nationwide shared chauffeur service collects you from home for your flight to Bucharest. Stay in a historic hotel with over 100 years of history and character. Its central location places you beside Bucharest’s Old Town where the buzz of restaurants, cafés and bars is never far away.

Hotel Capitol, Bucharest (4-star)

Day 2 - Bucharest

Romania’s capital city is a trove of great museums, stroll-worthy parks and tempting eateries. Its turbulent political past is plain to see from the severe Stalinist architecture - but the organic curves of 17th and 18th-century churches and graceful La Belle Époque-style villas can be found hushed away in hidden corners. Peel back the layers of Bucharest’s history with a full-day tour, encompassing all the highlights including the beautifully restored historic centre and Stavropoleos Church, plus a guided visit of the impressive Palace of the Parliament.

Hotel Capitol, Bucharest (4-star)

Day 3 - Bucharest

Today is free for you to explore the city under your own steam. Perhaps revisit some of the magnificent sites from yesterday’s tour - or make your own discoveries. Seek out some of the city’s charming treasures - we love Cărturești Carusel, one of the world’s most beautiful bookshops. Or perhaps stop for a taste of the local fare - juicy mici-pork rolls and aubergine salad are typical Romanian dishes. Alternatively, you could join our optional excursion to former President Ceausescu's Palace and the open-air National Museum of the Village.

Hotel Capitol, Bucharest (4-star)

Day 4 - Sinaia - Azuga - Brasov

Peles Castle – the summer residence of the Royal Family – is a neo-Renaissance masterpiece. Sharp spires, timber-framed panels, and detailed brickwork surrounded by thick forest in every shade of green - you’ll be forgiven for thinking you’ve walked straight into the pages of a storybook. But the inside is even more impressive, with every corner lavished in silk rugs, Murano glass and polished marble. Enjoy a guided tour this morning. Romania might not be the first country that springs to mind when you think of fine wines, but it’s known for its aromatic whites and full-bodied reds - and today enjoy a sparkling wine tasting and lunch at one of the country’s most prestigious wineries. Nestled among the majestic Carpathian Mountains, the award-winning Azuga Wine Cellar offers incredible scenery as well as an interesting history as the official supplier of the Romanian Royal Family.

Aro Palace, Brasov (5-star)

Day 5 - Brasov

Start the day with a morning visit to Prejmer fortified church, before returning to Brașov. A cluster of pastel-coloured baroque buildings surrounds a pedestrianised square, where cafés and small shops bring a gentle sense of activity. In the distance, forested Mount Tâmpa rises above the town, with the ‘Brașov’ sign clearly visible. Spend the morning discovering the medieval side of Brașov on a guided tour, including the Black Church, Rope Street and the Schei district. Afterwards, there’s time to explore at your own pace, perhaps stopping for lunch in a local café before a free afternoon.

Aro Palace, Brasov (5-star)

Day 6 - Sighisoara

This morning, visit Sighișoara. Strolling through its maze of medieval streets is a tranquil, fairytale-like experience, where you’ll feel completely transported. Yet it wasn’t always so peaceful; the town’s towers were once stocked with weapons and supplies in preparation for Turkish attacks. Spend time exploring its rich history, passing the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler and catching a glimpse of the covered Scholars’ Stairs, built in 1642. A mini train connects the upper and lower parts of the citadel. This evening, enjoy a special dinner with wine tasting and a live folklore show at a local restaurant.

Aro Palace, Brasov (5-star)

Day 7 - Bran Castle

The morning is at leisure. You may wish to delve deeper into the secrets of Brașov’s medieval old town, or join an optional private visit to the nearby Libearty Bear Sanctuary – the largest animal welfare project in Europe – to learn about its valuable conservation work. Later this afternoon, enjoy a much-anticipated visit to Bran Castle, often known as Dracula’s Castle. The approach is short but steep, so it is taken at a relaxed pace before the tour begins. Perched on a headland above Bran, the castle’s conical towers rise above dense forest, creating a dramatic and memorable first impression. This evening, enjoy a private guided tour. Climb narrow staircases, wander through creaking corridors and explore grand rooms adorned with bearskin rugs and antiques. While the atmosphere is unmistakable, there is no trace of vampires here. A guide will share the castle’s history, dating back to the 14th century, before the evening continues with dinner in the gardens at Queen Marie’s Tea House, Casa de Ceal. The visit concludes with a descent in the Time Tunnel lift, a unique experience that travels through centuries of history.

Aro Palace, Brasov (5-star)

Day 8 - Brasov - Bucharest - UK

Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK. Upon arrival, your vehicle will be waiting for the journey home.