Romania: private 12 days tour with bed and breakfast

Traveling through Romania on a 12-day private guided tour offers an enriching blend of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery. Led by knowledgeable guides, this journey takes you from the bustling capital of Bucharest to the charming streets of Cluj-Napoca, exploring iconic sights and lesser-known treasures along the way. With included accommodation, breakfast, and entrance tickets, it’s designed for travelers seeking a deep, authentic experience without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its combination of major attractions—like Bran Castle and the Palace of Parliament—with genuine encounters with local people in their homes. We also love how it offers a chance to go off the beaten path, such as visiting remote monasteries and traditional villages.

A potential consideration is the pace, as it covers a lot of ground in 12 days, which might feel rushed if you prefer a slower, more relaxed trip. It’s best suited for active travelers eager to explore Romania’s diverse regions in a comprehensive, guided format rather than those looking for a leisurely, sprawling vacation.

If you’re excited about discovering Romania’s cultural mosaic—its Saxon, Gypsy, Ukrainian, and Hungarian influences—while enjoying comfortable accommodations and insightful guides, this tour promises a memorable adventure.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Encounters: Meet resilient farmers at their homes, experiencing true Romanian hospitality.
• Rich Cultural Blend: Explore regions influenced by Romanians, Saxons, Gypsies, Ukrainians, and Hungarians.
• Iconic and Hidden Sights: Visit top attractions like Bran Castle and the Village Museum, plus lesser-known monasteries and villages.
• Off-the-Beaten-Path: Discover remote monasteries, traditional crafts workshops, and scenic mountain roads.
• Expert Guidance: Led by experienced guides who provide insightful commentary and facilitate genuine connections.
• All-Inclusive Convenience: Accommodation, breakfast, entrance tickets, and some meals included, making for a stress-free trip.

A Deep Dive into the 12-Day Romanian Adventure

Starting Point: Bucharest’s Dynamic Core

Your journey begins in Romania’s capital, Bucharest, a city that balances imposing Soviet-era architecture with lively street life. A city tour with a knowledgeable guide will introduce you to the Palace of Parliament, an enormous building that exemplifies Romania’s complex history and ambitions. Walking through the Lipscani district, you’ll get a feel for the city’s vibrant nightlife and historic charm. The Village Museum offers a glimpse into rural life, with traditional houses and artifacts from different regions.

A highlight here is the optional visit to Ceaușescu’s Mansion, which, while sometimes skipped due to time constraints, offers insights into Romania’s recent past. The guide’s commentary aims to make this history approachable and engaging.

From Bucharest to the Carpathian Highlands

On Day 3, we switch gears with visits to Pele Castle, a fairy-tale fortress perched on the mountainside, and the stunning gardens of Sinaia. These stops offer picturesque views and a taste of Romania’s aristocratic past. Afterward, the iconic Bran Castle—the legendary home of Dracula—awaits. While the tour doesn’t insist on a visit here, it’s a must-see for fans of Gothic lore. Alternatively, some opt for relaxing at the Libearty Bear Sanctuary or exploring Prejmer fortified church, where medieval defenses tell stories of past invasions.

In Brașov, you’ll wander the Old Town with its medieval streets, and the Black Church—a Gothic masterpiece—serves as a centerpiece. The guide’s explanations help you appreciate the history behind these landmarks.

Exploring Transylvania’s Medieval Heart

Day 4 and 5 deepen your experience in Sibiu, with its charming Squares, merchant houses, and the Brukenthal Palace. The Liar’s Bridge and the Evangelical Cathedral are photogenic highlights. You might find the Astra Village Museum fascinating, as it showcases traditional Romanian village life, or enjoy a peaceful walk in Rinari village, known for its tranquil rural scenery.

The next stop is Sighişoara, a beautifully preserved medieval citadel. Climbing the Schools Staircase and visiting the Astronomical Clock Tower are memorable moments. The optional visit to Mlâncrav or Viscri, two traditional Saxon villages, offers a glimpse into rural life preserved for centuries.

Crossing the Dramatic Bicaz Gorges

Day 7 takes you through the Bicaz Gorges, a breathtaking canyon carved by nature, offering some of Romania’s most scenic drives. At Agapia Monastery, you’ll experience one of Europe’s largest monastic complexes, with hundreds of nuns living in a monastic village setting. The optional visit to Piatra Neam reveals a rare wooden synagogue, half-buried in history.

The Bucovina Monasteries and Artistic Heritage

Days 8 and 9 focus on Bucovina, famous for its painted monasteries, including Voroneț with its “Sistine Chapel of the East” frescoes, and Sucevița, which impresses with its vivid murals. These sites are treasures of religious art and offer insight into the region’s spiritual life.

You’ll also visit Marginea, renowned for its black pottery, and Vama, famous for painted eggs. Optional activities like the Moldova steam train or Palma zip line add adventure to this scenic, cultural region.

Maramureș: Living Traditions and Unique Crafts

The last stretch of the tour takes you into Maramureș, a region known for its ancient wooden churches and centuries-old traditions. Visiting Bârsana Monastery with its intricate woodwork, and the water mills of Sârbi, offers a peek into traditional rural life. Meeting local artisans such as a mask maker in Scel or a vegetal-dyed rugs craftsman in Botiza highlights Romania’s artisanal heritage.

A traditional lunch and the opportunity to hike the Rooster’s Crest, a scenic natural reserve, provide both cultural and natural highlights.

Reflecting on History and Memory

Your itinerary includes visits to Sighetu Marmației, home to the Victims of Communism Memorial and Elie Wiesel Museum, grounding your trip in Romania’s recent history. The Merry Cemetery in Spâna and the tallest wooden church in the world add poignant and striking sights to your understanding of local resilience and artistry.

Practicalities and Comfort

Transport is arranged in a private vehicle, ensuring comfort and flexibility. The hotels and guesthouses, rated at 3-4 stars, provide a cozy base for exploring each region. Breakfast is included every morning, while some lunches are part of the package—giving you chances to sample authentic Romanian cuisine.

The tour is designed for those with average physical condition, capable of walking and some stairs, but it’s not suitable for mobility-impaired travelers. The group is private, making for a more personalized experience, and guides speak English and French.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At roughly $3,026 per person, the tour’s price covers a lot of ground—everything from transport and accommodation to entrance fees for key sites and some meals. It’s a solid investment if you want a comprehensive, well-organized introduction to Romania’s most compelling sights and stories without the stress of planning each detail yourself.

The inclusion of contacts with locals—farmers, artisans, monks—not only enriches your understanding but also supports small communities. The guided aspect ensures you get expert insights, making even lesser-known sites meaningful.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for cultural explorers who want a curated, authentic experience of Romania’s diverse regions. It suits active travelers comfortable with a packed itinerary, eager to see both major landmarks and hidden gems. It’s also perfect for those who appreciate meaningful local interactions, scenic landscapes, and historical depth.

If you enjoy guided tours that combine sightseeing with culture and don’t mind a busy schedule, this journey will leave you with a genuine appreciation for Romania’s complexity and beauty.

Final Thoughts

This private 12-day Romanian tour offers a thoughtfully balanced mix of iconic sights, off-the-beaten-path locations, and authentic encounters. Led by experienced guides, it ensures you’ll learn about Romania’s history, culture, and traditions in a way that feels personal and insightful. The inclusion of contact with locals and visits to remote monasteries and villages makes it stand out from typical tours.

While the pace may be brisk for some, the variety of experiences and scenery make every day worth it. With comfortable accommodations, plenty of opportunities to stop and soak in the views, and expert guidance, this trip is a strong choice for travelers serious about truly experiencing Romania.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour requires walking and some stairs, so it’s not recommended for travelers with mobility impairments.

What is included in the price?
The price covers 12 days of private guided touring, accommodation for 11 nights at 3-4 star hotels or guesthouses, breakfast, entrance tickets for all main attractions, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

Are meals other than breakfast included?
No, other meals and drinks are not included, but some lunches are part of the itinerary, allowing you to enjoy local cuisine.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages do guides speak?
Guides speak English and French, ensuring smooth communication for most travelers.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
The tour is geared toward active travelers and may involve some walking and sightseeing, so it’s best for older children or teenagers who enjoy cultural trips.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are essential for walking on uneven streets, monasteries, and natural reserves.

Are optional activities included in the price?
Optional activities like visiting the Moldova steam train or zip line are available at extra costs and depend on time and group interest.

Will the itinerary change?
Yes, the schedule may be adjusted due to site closures, weather, or other unforeseen circumstances, but guides will ensure you experience the highlights.

This Romania tour strikes a fine balance between must-see sights and authentic, local experiences. It offers a comprehensive, well-organized adventure that’s perfect for travelers eager to uncover Romania’s true character, with plenty of comfort and expert insight along the way.