From Sibiu: Villages, Farm Life & Horse Carriage Ride

Exploring Romania’s Transylvania region often conjures images of castles and Dracula legends, but this tour offers a refreshingly authentic experience focused on the area’s built heritage and rural traditions. For just $162 per person, you’ll spend about 10 hours uncovering medieval fortified churches, meeting local farmers, tasting fresh dairy, and soaking up the tranquil countryside. It’s a wonderful way to get a glimpse of everyday life beyond the tourist spots.

What really makes this tour special is its combination of cultural, historical, and natural sights within a single day. You’ll enjoy the scenic drive through rolling hills plus the opportunity to see several UNESCO-listed fortified churches. We especially loved the chance to sample fresh cheeses directly from the farm, and the carriage ride through a rustic village provides a peaceful, nostalgic moment.

That said, this experience might not be ideal if you’re after a high-energy, fast-paced day or if you prefer visits to major cities. The tour is quite focused on rural sites and traditional crafts, so those seeking a more urban cultural fix might find it less suited. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy gentle explorations, authentic local encounters, and scenic countryside views.

Key Points

• Rich cultural insight through visits to medieval fortified churches and local farms.
• Authentic farm experience including cheese and milk tasting directly from the source.
• Beautiful natural landscapes with a short hike through unique geological formations.
• Relaxing carriage ride that connects you to traditional rural life.
• All-inclusive value with transportation, guides, and entry fees covered.
• Ideal for curious travelers interested in history, craftsmanship, and rural traditions.

Exploring the Old and the Fortified: The Churches of Transylvania

The tour kicks off with a scenic drive from Sibiu to the Câra Monastery, established in 1202 by Cistercian monks. We loved the way the guide brought this site to life, explaining how these monks built such a Gothic masterpiece with simple tools and methods that date back centuries. The Gothic architecture, though modest in size compared to Western European cathedrals, has a quiet grandeur that’s striking in its historical context.

Next, a visit to omartin’s Romanesque basilica is a highlight. Here, you’ll have time to admire the stunning Baroque altar from 1730 by Johann Stock and the impressive Samuel Mätz organ. The church also served as a defensive structure in the past, a common feature of fortified churches designed to protect local communities during invasions or attacks.

A stop at Cincu’s fortified church completes this trio. Its soaring tower, over 49 meters high, offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Inside, the altar from 1521 depicts “Doubting Thomas,” illustrating the blend of religious storytelling and local craftsmanship. Visitors often appreciate the well-preserved epitaphs and Renaissance pulpit, which showcase the collective effort of the town’s ancestors.

Authentic Farm Life and Cheese Tasting

The heart of the tour is the visit to Selitat, a traditional sheepfold and farm where you can see firsthand how rural communities sustain themselves. We loved the relaxed pace here—walking among sheep, goats, buffalo, and even friendly guardian dogs—that provides genuine insight into farm life.

The farm visit includes tasting fresh milk and a variety of locally produced cheeses like ca, urd, and telemea. The quality and freshness of these products stand out, especially when tasted directly from the source. One reviewer noted, “There’s something special about cheese when you see the cows and sheep it comes from—it’s hard to beat that authenticity.”

This part of the experience is perfect for foodies and those curious about rural craftsmanship, but keep in mind it’s just a tasting—so if you’re expecting a full farm tour, you might want to plan a separate visit for a more in-depth experience.

Traditional Romanian Lunch and Cultural Sights

After the farm, a hearty local lunch awaits, featuring homemade dishes prepared with fresh ingredients. While some reviews mention the meal as “delicious and filling,” others note that it’s a simple, traditional spread—no frills, just good, honest food that offers a taste of Mama’s cooking. It’s a great way to rejuvenate before more sightseeing.

The journey continues through the rolling hills of Movile, where a short hike takes you through natural mounds and local legends. This area’s geological features add an extra layer of interest, especially if you enjoy a bit of nature and folklore.

A Touch of Nostalgia: The Horse Carriage Ride

The final highlight is a horse-drawn carriage ride through Stejriu village, led by a local farmer. The slow, rhythmic trot of the horse and the peaceful countryside views create an almost meditative atmosphere. It’s a charming, nostalgic experience and offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially as the sun dips lower.

In Stejriu, you’ll visit the 14th-century fortified church famous for its “Bacon Tower,” a quirky storage area for cured meats. It’s a humorous reminder of how resourceful these communities were—saving space and resources in one clever structure.

Practical Details & Value

Transport is comfortable and reliable, with a private vehicle that makes the day smooth and stress-free. The tour is private, allowing for a more personalized experience and flexible pacing. Guides are fluent in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, and Romanian, making communication easy.

The price of $162 per person includes all entrance fees, transportation, guide services, and taxes, which is quite reasonable given the scope of sites visited and the depth of experience. The only extra costs are optional meals or souvenirs, so you can budget accordingly.

The tour lasts around 10 hours, usually starting in the morning and returning in the early evening. Reviewers have praised the well-paced itinerary, emphasizing the balance of sightseeing, tasting, and relaxing moments.

Who Is This Tour For?

This experience suits history buffs, food lovers, and those interested in rural traditions. It’s perfect for travelers seeking a genuine, less touristy side of Transylvania without the crowds. It’s also ideal for couples or small groups wanting a relaxed, culturally rich day out.

However, it may not be recommended for children under 14 or seniors over 95, due to the moderate walking and rural terrain involved. If you prefer urban explorations or major city sights, this tour might feel limited.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a genuinely authentic and scenic journey into rural Transylvania, combining medieval architecture with farm life, natural beauty, and traditional crafts. The inclusion of cheese tastings and the peaceful carriage ride are standout moments that bring a warm, human touch to the day.

While it’s not designed for high-energy sightseeing, it’s an ideal choice for those who appreciate slow travel, culture, and scenic landscapes. The value is excellent, especially considering the diverse stops and knowledgeable guides. It’s a perfect way to connect with the land and its people beyond the typical tourist spots.

In short, if you’re after a relaxed, insightful look into Transylvania’s countryside and history, this tour should be on your list.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Sibiu in a comfortable vehicle is included, ensuring a smooth day without the hassle of arranging your own travel.

What languages do the guides speak?
Guides are fluent in English, Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, and Romanian, so you’ll have no trouble understanding the stories and explanations.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 10 hours, making it a full but manageable day out with lots of interesting stops.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for sites like Câra Monastery, omartin, Cincu, and Stejriu are covered, so no surprise costs on the day.

Can I taste local cheese?
Absolutely. The farm visit includes tasting fresh milk and a variety of cheeses such as ca, urd, and telemea, directly from the source.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for travelers over 14, as the schedule involves walking and some rural terrain that might not be ideal for younger children.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are advised, especially for the short hike through Movile and walking around the farms and churches.

Is there free time during the tour?
The schedule is well-planned, with enough time at each site for exploration and enjoyment, but it’s designed as a guided experience, so free time is limited.

What is the highlight of the tour?
Many find the farm visit with cheese tasting and the horse carriage ride to be the most memorable parts, offering genuine connection with local life.

Is this tour a good value?
Given the inclusion of transportation, guides, entrance fees, and multiple authentic experiences, it offers excellent value for a full-day, culturally immersive trip.

This detailed review should help you decide whether this experience fits your travel style. Whether you’re into history, food, or simply relaxing in scenic surroundings, it promises a meaningful taste of Romania’s rural soul.