Expert travel storyteller Jordan Adkins, founder of InspiredByMaps.com, brings a decade of adventures across 101 countries and 450+ UNESCO sites into rich, off-the-beaten-path narratives, melding ecological expertise with genuine, seasoned travel insights. His full bio can be found here.
Romania’s deep and dark secrets are something almost every wandering soul has the desire to uncover and the process of doing so can reveal even more enchanting enigmas than you knew of before discovering them.
The Land of Dracula is known for its myths, legends, intricate stories, and one-of-a-kind natural landscapes and medieval towns – thus making it a perfect place to explore with the best Romania tours.
Located in Southeast Europe west of Ukraine, Romania is a nation like no other. With a population of 19.12 million, the country is considered one of the most populous countries in Eastern Europe. Romania was taken over by the Soviet Union in 1944 and joined the USSR just four years later.
After 40 years as a state of the USSR, Romania became independent when the USSR was abolished in 1989. The country became a part of the European Union in 2007 and has had a stable economy since. Due to its resilience and strength, the country can be seen as one of the strongest countries in Europe.
Romania today can be seen as a perfect place to explore and uncover the many dark secrets it holds. Romania is known as the home of Dracula. Although commonly labeled as a myth, Dracula or Vlad ll was once a real person known as the Prince of Walachia from 1456 – 1462.
He was notorious for being cruel to his enemies and those who defied him. Born and raised in now what’s known as the famous Transylvania and is the inspiration for what we consider to be Dracula today. Dracula is what draws so many people to visit Romania, to begin with – though there are also many other famous films set in Romania that have lured in adventurous travelers like yourself over the year. Let’s look at the top places to visit while you’re in Romania!
Bucharest
The capital of Romania and the hub of the country, Bucharest is a hustling and bustling capital that you need to visit on your trip to Romania. Bucharest is situated right in the center of the Romanian plains and rests in the southern part of the country. With tons to see and do, Bucharest can be a perfect place to start your adventure.
Bucharest originally got its name in 1459 when a written document by Walachia’s king Vladd was founded and the city at that time was named, Bucuresti. Later on the name Bucharest. Bucharest soon became the country’s capital and the most important and powerful city in the country following both the first and second world Wars.
When in Bucharest, take the time to completely explore the city. Take a trip to the Palace of Parliament. Formerly a Communist Palace, the palace had turned into what is now known as parliament when the soviet union was abolished in 1989.
Take a stroll through some of the parks or gardens or perhaps take some time to visit the Arcul De Triumf. A war memorial archway made completely out of granite. You will be left speechless by the unique architecture you’ll find in Romania. It’s like communism meets Western European and will be the best background for your socials.
Transylvania
Transylvania is one of the most popular tourist sites and regions of Romania. Not far from Bucharest and just to the east of the Carpathian mountains, visiting Transylvania will give you a chance to see some of the most popular myths and legends from the country.
In the second century, Transylvania became part of the province of Dacia and became the kingdom of Dacia. The kingdom was then taken over in the 9th century when the Hungarians seized the region.
Soon after, Vlad ll became the king and one of the most well-known historical figures of Romania. Like his father, Vlad enrolled in the Order of the Dragon which was an organization created to defend Christian Europe against the ottoman empire.
Vlad was given the name Dracula which means “Son of Dracul” in Latin. “Dracul” means “The Devil” in Romanian. Transylvania can also be known as Transilvania in Romanian and It is one of the most historic places in eastern Europe.
Just 4 hours away from Bucharest, Transylvania is studded in historical sites and is the most famous place in Romania. Tourists flock from all over just to see the castle in person. Visiting can help educate you on the vast history of Romania and it can quickly become of the most memorable moments of your life.
Now you may be asking yourself why is it so important to take an organized tour of Romania. Romania is such a diverse country with so much to see and do, it can be hard to pinpoint exactly what you want to do and how you want to do it in the time you spend there.
It can also be confusing and tedious for those who are not as experienced in planning or booking travel. That’s why it’s always recommended to book an official tour to guide you through the country and take you to some of the best cultural sites.
So, with this in mind, and much as we have done for the best Montenegro tours and best Georgia tours, here we are going to be talking about one of the best Romania tours (and their operators), so you can be inspired – and then choose with confidence.
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Transylvanian Long Weekend
Explore!
Transylvania can be considered a realm of mystery and Romanian Folklore. It is also the birthplace of Dracula and the infamous Dracula’s castle. It’s a unique region that you can’t miss on your trip to Romania. You will get a chance to visit Lavish Peles, Pelisor Castles, and the most famous of them all, Bran Castle. You will also get a chance to see the Brown Bears during the right season and visit the big city of Bucharest.
You will start and end your journey in Bucharest on this 5-day Transylvanian Cultural tour. You will get a chance to see Bucharest and 4 other destinations in Romania. Your accommodations, meals, transportation, and expert guide are completely included in the cost of the tour as well.
Let’s look at your day-to-day itinerary for the tour!
- Day One: Join the trip in Bucharest
- Day Two: Tour of Bucharest and evening bear watching
- Day Three: Visit to Peles and Pelisor Castles; a chance for further bear watching
- Day Four: Visit Bran Castle; Brasov walking tour including the Black Church
- Day Five: Drive to Bucharest Airport where our trip ends
With this 5-day detailed cultural tour, you will get to enjoy the intense and beautiful culture of Romania and see some of the top sites in the country. This is a great tour for solo travelers, families with older children, couples, groups, and holiday vacations.
This tour is operated by Explore! Tours which is rated a 4.5 out of five stars. The tour itself has also rated 4.5 out of five stars and is considered highly recommended by travelers. Overall, this tour is one you can’t miss especially if you only have a few days to see the country!
Classic Romania Tour
Rolandia
Venture out to some of the best sites and attractions of Romania with this 8-day small group tour around the country. This classic tour will take you to all the top sites including Peles Castle, Sighisoara, and the world-famous Bran Castle.
With a chance to fully immerse yourself in the spirit of Romania, this charming tour can be the perfect Romanian getaway and something truly spectacular.
You will start and end your journey in Bucharest! This 8-day detailed tour will take you to 15 different destinations in Romania including the capital of Bucharest. Lodging, transportation, an expert guide, and much more are included in the price of this tour.
However, it is important to note that insurance, gratitude, and flights from your country of origin are not included at this time. Let’s take a look at what your 8-day adventure would look like!
- Day One: Bucharest city tour
- Day Two: Bucharest – Curtea de Arges monastery – Sibiu
- Day Three: Sibiu – Sibiel village – Alba Carolina – Turda salt mine – Cluj-Napoca
- Day Four: Cluj-Napoca – Breb village – Merry Cemetery – Sighetu Marmatiei
- Day Five: UNESCO wooden churches – Targu Mures
- Day Six: Targu Mures – Biertan fortified church – Sighisoara – Viscri village – Brasov
- Day Seven: Brasov – Bran Castle – Peles Castle – Bucharest
- Day Eight: Bucharest – Departure
This 8-day Romanian Discovery tour will leave you speechless with all of the magical wonders that you will visit. With this jam-packed itinerary you can be sure you see will everything there is to see in the country with a mix of cultural and tourist sites as well are natural wonders too.
This tour is operated by Rolandia which is considered one of the best operators offering tours in the country. With an overall rating of 4.8 out of five stars, the operator is considered one of the best. The tour also has a rating of 4.6 out of five stars.
Rolandia Tours is committed to giving tours the most authentic look into the country by proving some of the most organized tours and some of the best local and expert guides available. All in all, travelers recommended this tour and this is one to consider for your trip to Romania.
Carpathian Walking & Bears
Exodus Travels
Transylvania is considered one of the top sites in Europe or the top site in Romania and is admired regularly for its intense history and legends that surround it. Located in central Romania close to the Carpathian mountains, this castle’s strategic location and history work together to create a vibrant story of what happened here.
Since the mountains are so close by, the wildlife is unbeatable and is home to half of Europe’s brown bear population. People and animals have coexisted together for centuries here, making it a very peaceful place for visitors, and will make a unique visit for everyone. Transylvania in central Romania is one of Europe’s most stunningly wild and interesting locations.
You will get a chance to see some of Romania’s brown bears as well as Saxon settlements, breathtaking canyons, and the home of the famous count Dracula, bran castle. Start and end your adventure in Bucharest with this hiking and sightseeing combo. You will get a chance to see 6 different cities in Romania over 8 days. An expert guide, transportation, meals, lodging, and much more!
Here is a look at your itinerary for this tour.
- Day One: Start Bucharest; transfer to Magura (dinner)
- Day Two: Walk to visit Kalibash villages (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Day Three: Horse-drawn cart ride and hike in Barza Valley; evening brown bear watching (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Day Four: Visit Dracula’s Castle (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Day Five: Drive to Brasov, city tour (breakfast)
- Day Six: Hike through alpine pastures to Curmatura Cabin (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Day Seven: visit brown bear sanctuary; hike to Vulcan (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Day Eight: to Bucharest Airport; end (breakfast)
With this 8-day adventure tour around Romania, you will get a chance to see some of the top sites in the country, with an expert guide that will give you insights and tidbits on each attraction that probably did not know. You will also get a chance to fully immerse yourself in nature as well as enjoy the cultural roots and traditions of the Romanian people.
This tour is operated by Exodus Travels which is one of the top tour operators in the world for multi-day tours. The operator is rated a 4.4 out of five stars and so is the tour. Exodus Travel believes in providing affordable tours with authentic approaches and expert local guides, this is done to give you the most out of your tour and give you the option to experience everything!
The tour is highly rated among travelers and overall is one to consider when looking into a Romanian adventure.
Dracula Beyond the Legend
Transylvania Discovery Tours
This 8-day tour in Transylvania is designed to give you an in-depth perspective on Transylvania and the myth and legends that haunt the place. The mystery will only get deeper as you travel around the country learning about Dracula and the importance, history, and culture around him. You will get a chance to see a total of 13 destinations in Romania in the 8 days you’re on tour.
You will start and end your journey in Bucharest with airport pick up being offered as well as transportation to each site and drop off at the hotel of your choosing. However, it is important to note that meals, flights from your country of origin, lodging, and insurance are. Let’s take a look at your 8-day detailed tour and let’s take a moment to visualize what it would look like.
- Day One: Bucharest OTP Airport – Bucharest City
- Day Two: Bucharest – Targoviste Royal Court – Poenari Castle
- Day Three: Poenari citadel – Transfagarasan Highway – Sibiu
- Day Four: Corvin Castle – Sarmizegetusa Regia – Densus church – Deva
- Day Five: Deva – Alba Carolina – Turda Salt Mine – Cluj-Napoca
- Day Six: Cluj-Napoca – Biertan – Sighisoara Citadel
- Day Seven: Sighisoara – Bran Castle – Brasov
- Day Eight: Brasov – Snagov Monastery – Bucharest city or airport
This tour gives the ultimate Dracula fan the plunge into the world of Dracula. This in-depth Dracula tour is focused on specific learning about the many myths and legends surrounding Dracula while also teaching you about the strong and beautiful culture of Romania.
This tour is offered by Transylvania discovery tours and is rated 4.7 out of five stars. With one of the best local companies out there, Transylvania discovery tours are focused on bringing authentic and local attractions to tourists in the most organized and pleasing way.
Giving travelers a bit of a sense of freedom while guiding them through some of the best sites in Romania can be an absolute dream. The tour itself is rated 4.7 out of five stars as well and is highly recommended by travelers.
Transylvania & Bucovina’s Painted Monasteries
Trip2ro
When traveling through Romania, most think of Dracula’s castle but few think of the beautiful and precious monasteries scattered throughout the country. On this tour, you will get a chance to fully immerse yourself in the beautifully painted monasteries in Bucovina and also enjoy some of the beautiful scenery in Transylvania.
You will get a chance to completely indulge in Romania’s medieval cities like Sibu, Borgo Pass, Bistria, and Sighisoara. Each site will leave you completely speechless and taken away by the stunning beauty of each attraction.
You will start and end your adventure in Bucharest, the capital of Romania. Visiting a total of 13 cities in Romania over the course of 6 days you will be completely in awe by the beauty of the country. You will also get a chance to enjoy this fully jampacked itinerary. Your tour includes lodging, an expert guide, transportation, meals, and much more! Here is a look into what your 6-day Romanian adventure might look like.
- Day One: Start Bucharest – Cozia – Sibiu
- Day Two: Sibiu – Sighisoara – Targu Mures – Bistrita
- Day Three: Bistrita – Voronet – Moldovita – Sucevita – Marginea – Gura Humorului
- Day Four: Gura Humorului – Piatra Neamt – Cheile Bicazului – Miercurea Ciuc
- Day Five: Miercurea Ciuc – Brasov – Bran – Sinaia
- Day Six: Departure from Bucharest
On this 6-day cultural tour of Romania, you will get a chance to see some of the most beautiful monasteries you will see in your entire life. You will also get a chance to see the world-famous Dracula castle in Transylvania as well.
Giving you the best of both worlds which is actually quite unique for tours in Romania. Most just focus on Transylvania but getting the opportunity to see another side of Romania can be refreshing and adventurous at the same time.
The tour is operated by Trip2ro and is rated 4.4 out of five stars. Rated highly for its immersive tours and excellent guides, the company prides itself on its ties to the locals and the culture itself. Most of the tours offered by this operation are in Romania with the exception of a few that are in the surrounding countries. The tour itself is rated 4.4 out of five stars as well and overall is highly recommended by travelers alike.
The Real Romania
Crooked Compass
Get the chance to discover true Romania on this 10 ultimate romaine adventure tour. You will get a chance to see Romania in detail with a mix of both well-known attractions and hidden, undiscovered beauties that make the country sparkle. Perfect for those craving the ultimate adventure within the country of Romania or just a wild adventure altogether.
You will start and end your journey in Cluj-Napoca. This active yet adventurous tour will give you the unique or perhaps once-in-a-lifetime chance to see the true Romanian culture.
This package comes with 10 days of adventure and includes a knowledgeable guide, lodging, transportation, meals, and much more! This tour however does include insurance, flights from your country of origin, or gratitudes. Here is what your full 10-day Romanian adventure would look like!
- Day One: Arrival in Cluj
- Day Two: Visit Maramures
- Day Three: Trekking through the Iza Valley
- Day Four: Trekking through Rodna Mountains
- Day Five: Walk through the Moldovita Valley
- Day Six: Travel to Lacu Rosu
- Day Seven: Trek through Hasmas National Park
- Day Eight: Viscri
- Day Nine: Sighisoara
- Day Ten: Departure at any time.
This 10-day ultimate Romanian discovery tour will give the most detailed and in-depth tour of Romania out there. With a favorable mix of medieval hidden or undiscovered towns to more modernized and touristic cities, this tour gives you the best of both worlds and is definitely considered unique.
Most tours offered in Romania revolve around Transylvania or the surrounding area but this tour gives you the chance to see the whole country in detail and witness some of the fantastic traditions of Romania that are just waiting to be shared with the world.
The tour is offered by Crooked Compass, a world-renowned tour operator known for its diverse tours and activities for everyone!
Known to have some of the best guides and some of the best-organized tours, you can almost be certain that your tour will be authentic, fun, and jam-packed with adventure. The tour operator and the tour itself are both rated 4,4 out of five stars and are both highly recommended by travelers.
So in conclusion, we can confidently say travelers recommend this tour and if you’re looking to discover Romania in detail, this is the tour for you!
Romania is an absolutely breathtaking country with lots to see and do. You will be completely mesmerized by the warm Romanian hospitality and friendly people. The natural beauty, history, and stories will take you to a completely new level and will serenade you.
The secrets of Carpathia or perhaps Romania continue to be hidden oftentimes in plain sight and it takes a special type of traveler to unlock the mysteries and completely discover all of what Romania is all about.
If none of these tours work for you in Romania, please do not worry. There is a wide variety of tour options in the country, and we are confident that there will be something that fits your needs and interests.
Take a look at all the group tours in Romania now, which you can sort by private or group, maximum sizing, budget, dates and much (much more). The team at TourRadar is also always more than happy to answer any questions, provide further information or assist in any way in finding the perfect tour for you.
