Romania: Mountains to Monasteries 2024
Romania: Mountains to Monasteries 2024
Romania: Mountains to Monasteries 2024
9 Days Starting and ending in Bucharest
Visiting: Bucharest, Sinaia, Brașov, Bran, Viscri, Sighișoara, Praid, Biertan, Sibiu, Sibiel, Cozia, Râmnicu Vâlcea
Tour operator:
Tour code:
BRMBB4
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
10 - 18
Age range:
18-99
Special diets catered:
Please advise requests
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Foodie and Wine Tours, Gardens & Nature Tours, History
Tour Overview
Majestic mountains and rustic medieval villages await in Romania. Our spellbinding adventure will take us from the elegant streets of Bucharest to the dramatic forests of Transylvania. En route, we'll discover spectacular churches, tour storied castles and sample sumptuous delicacies unique to this remarkable region. Uncover legendary tales of vampires in Transylvania’s Bran Castle and relish the sweet taste of homemade brandy during a distillery tour amongst other wonderful highlights.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Bucharest (Romania)
Location: Bucharest
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Capitol (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to Bucharest, a capital city that’s been nicknamed ‘Little Paris’ for its enchanting architecture. After meeting the group at the hotel, we’ll venture out for our first delicious meal and get to know each other a little better.
Day 2 : Bucharest – Sinaia – Brasov
Location: Bucharest, Sinaia, Brașov
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Casa Wagner (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, we’ll depart for the spectacular town of Sinaia which sits at the base of the fir clad Bucegi Mountains. We’ll journey through the lush Prahova Valley and stop off at Peles Castle: a Neo-Rennaissance masterpiece nestled just northwest of the town. Wander its grand hallways and discover its history as a royal summer retreat. Later, we’ll move onto Brasov – our home for the next two nights. This Transylvanian city is renowned for its Saxon-era walls and charming cobbled squares. The evening will be yours to admire Brasov’s colourful architecture and dine on various local delights, including ciorba de vacuta (a hearty soup) and bulz (savoury stuffed polenta cakes).
Day 3 : Brasov – Bran – Brasov
Location: Brașov, Bran, Brașov
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Casa Wagner (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, we’ll travel south to Bran. This sleepy commune is famed for its impressive 13th century fortress that’s commonly nicknamed Dracula's Castle. Discover more about Bran Castle’s associations with the legendary vampire on a guided tour. This afternoon, we’ll sample the region’s local tipple at a brandy distillery in Rasnov. Learn about the unique distilling process of this traditional fruit spirit and sip on five delicious varieties. Then: we’ll return to Brasov for another evening at our leisure.
Day 4 : Brasov – Viscri – Sighisoara
Location: Viscri, Sighișoara
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Central Park Sighisoara (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Following a delicious breakfast, we’ll wave goodbye to Brasov and take the scenic route to Viscri. This idyllic village is beloved by King Charles III who even owns three Saxon houses in the area. Stroll around the picturesque streets before we reconvene for lunch at a local restaurant. This afternoon, we’ll continue to the UNESCO World Heritage city of Sighisoara. Founded by the Transylvanian Saxons over a millennia ago, it’s awash with impeccably preserved medieval structures. The evening is yours to spend as you wish.
Day 5 : Sighisoara – Parajd – Sighisoara
Location: Sighișoara, Praid, Sighișoara
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Central Park Sighisoara (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Ready to discover more about Sighisoara’s fascinating past? This morning, we’ll enjoy a guided tour of the city’s fortified Old Town that’s brimming with storybook towers, ornate churches and medieval marketplaces. A highlight is the birthplace of Vlad Dracula (or Vlad the Impaler) – a fearsome 13th century ruler and the inspiration behind Bram Stoker’s best-selling novel. Later: we’ll stop off at a traditional restaurant for lunch before journeying onwards to the Parajd Salt Mine. The largest salt reserve in Europe, we’ll delve 120 metres below sea level to marvel its immense beauty. Afterwards, we’ll head back to Sighisoara for another evening at leisure.
Day 6 : Sighisoara – Biertan – Sibiu
Location: Biertan, Sibiu
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Imparatul Romanilor (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Biertan’s UNESCO-listed church is the main feature of today’s itinerary. Following a morning exploring the village and its magnificent Gothic centrepiece, we’ll continue to Sibiu. This walled city at the heart of Romania is renowned for its Germanic architecture, medieval Council Tower and brilliant art museums. Following an orientation walk, you’ll have the rest of the day to explore at your own pace.
Day 7 : Sibiu – Sibiel – Sibiu
Location: Sibiu, Sibiel, Sibiu
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Imparatul Romanilor (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today, you’ll have plenty of free time to soak up the rest of Sibiu’s extraordinary sights. Make sure you don’t miss out on the beautiful Brukenthal Palace that’s brimming with priceless artwork. The Astra Museum also offers a terrific treasure trove of traditional arts and crafts. Later, we’ll venture just beyond the city to the delightful village of Sibiel for a masterclass in rustic Romanian cuisine. Learn how to make a rich, authentic goulash which you’ll then devour for lunch. Afterwards, you’ll have time to continue your exploration of Sibiu.
Day 8 : Sibiu – Cozia – Ramnicu Valcea
Location: Sibiu, Cozia, Râmnicu Vâlcea
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Grand Sofianu (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Next stop: Ramnicu Valcea. First though, we’ll depart Sibiu and drive south via the incredibly scenic Transalpina route. This high-altitude road weaves its way through the spectacular Carpathian Mountains. It’s one of the most photogenic locations in Romania, so make sure you have your camera ready! This afternoon, we’ll swap mountains for monasteries with a tour of Cozia Monastery. This handsome structure on the River Olt houses the tomb of Mircea the Elder and is one of the country’s most celebrated medieval landmarks. We’ll conclude the day in nearby Ramnicu Valcea where we’ll enjoy a farewell dinner together and reminisce about our Romanian adventure.
Day 9 : Ramnicu Valcea – Bucharest
Location: Râmnicu Vâlcea, Bucharest
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, we’ll journey back to Bucharest where we’ll say our final goodbyes. On the way, you’ll have a chance to feast your eyes on more breathtaking vistas of central Romania.
What's Included
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Transport
Premium mini-coach transportation
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Guide
Experienced Tour Leader and Driver
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Accommodation
8 nights in hand-picked accommodation
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Meals
8 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 2 Dinners
What's Not Included
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Airport Transfers at Destination
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Insurance
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International Travel
Mode of Transport
Premium mini-coach transportation. We travel in premium mini-coaches equipped with comfortable seats, air conditioning and large windows for enjoying the view. With far more flexibility than a standard-size coach, we’re able to take the scenic route –
winding through beautiful countryside to the heart of tiny villages and coastal towns.
Check out our Q&As
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Do I need insurance?
Before travelling with Back-Roads Touring, it is compulsory for all guests to take out comprehensive travel insurance. Please ensure your insurance covers medical expenses (including repatriation), cancellation cover, loss or damage to baggage and personal effects, money and personal liability. We recommend you carry your insurance details with you at all times. You may be asked to provide details of your medical insurance or a payment guarantee in some countries before medical assistance can be provided.
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What is the tipping policy?
Tipping is entirely at your discretion. If you feel you have received exceptional service, it is recommended that you tip £1-2/€ per day for Drivers and £4- 5/€ per day for Tour Leaders.
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Passports & Visas
Please ensure your passport is valid for at least six months after the last day of your tour. Some countries will refuse entry if you do not have at least six months validity remaining on your passport after your departure date. Depending on your nationality, you may require a visa to enter certain countries. It is your responsibility to obtain visas prior to your tour’s departure. To determine which visas you’ll need, you can consult either your own government’s website or the government websites of the countries in which you will be travelling. PLEASE NOTE: Some visas can take up to six weeks to acquire, so don’t leave it until the last minute. Also, bear in mind that the validity of a visa often runs from its date of issue rather than the date of entry into the country. Please check with the appropriate embassy/embassies prior to departure as requirements do change periodically. We advise you to either carry a photocopy of your passport (and visa, if applicable) with you while abroad, or to ensure that you leave a copy with relatives back at home. This will enable the local embassy or high commission to arrange a replacement if the original should be lost or stolen. If you do take copies with you on your tour, please ensure that you keep these separate from your original documents.
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Medication and mobility
Whilst on your tour, we want you to have the smoothest journey possible which requires some mobility conditions: 1) You must be fit enough to get on and off the vehicle on a regular basis, and to walk around towns and villages or to attractions. 2) You must be able to walk up and down stairs and use a shower over the bath. Please note that, unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate mobility scooter or wheelchair users as we frequently stay in traditional-style hotels and the majority do not have lifts or ground-floor rooms. If you take medicine for certain conditions, such as diabetes or heart problems, please carry it with you at all times. Please declare any medical conditions you may have in advance of your tour. If you are in any doubt as to whether our tours are suitable for you, please contact us.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
We have solo capacity, however no single share.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Upon final payments, we will distribute E-Documentation to all of our guests. Dont forget we also have our App to download as an added feature.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Like-minded travellers awaiting the opportunity to explore the less explored regions. Interests in food, wine, history, art as well as wartimes there will be a great mix of people to connect with on tour.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
We have our COVID Assurance Policy, Book now and relax knowing you are covered under our new COVID-19 Assurance Policy. At no additional cost to you, new bookings are now 100% refundable in the unfortunate event you are diagnosed with COVID-19 or unable to travel due to government-enforced lock downs prior to your scheduled departure date.
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What level of mobility do I need?
You need to be fit enough to get on and off the vehicle on a regular basis, and to walk both to attractions and around towns and villages. You also need to be able to walk up and down stairs in the hotels and use a shower over the bath. We frequently use traditional style hotels and the majority will not have lifts or ground floor rooms.
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Who goes on Back-Roads tours?
The majority of our guests come from Canada, the USA, the UK, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. All tour commentaries are in English. Our tours appeal to those looking for a more relaxing style of travel, and who enjoy culture, good food, meeting like-minded people and exploring destinations in depth.
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What is the minimum age for any Back-Roads Touring trip?
The minimum age on all of our trips is 18 years.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
All Hotels in line with protocols following the World Health Organisation meet and exceed requirements for all Touring with us.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Back-Roads Touring has been operating from the UK for over 30 years.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
Inline with our booking flexibility policy, you are able to make as many changes as required up to 60 days from departue - with 1 last included up until 30 days out.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
Generally no, but in extraordinary circumstances it can be looked at.
Reviews of this operator
Book with Confidence
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Free Date Changes
Back-Roads Touring allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 60 days before the start of the tour.
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Back-Roads Touring allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform back-roads touring, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Back-Roads Touring requires a minimum deposit of 150 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of back-roads touring charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.