Romania – Balkan Tours by Local Guides

Romanian Castles

Romania is famous for its castles, and the majority of tourists wish to visit at least a couple when on their tour of Romania. Among the most famous castles to see are the Peles castle, located in the mountains, the Bran Castle - known for the legend of Dracula and the Corvin Castle - with its impressive Gothic architecture. Be sure to pinpoint the castles that you wish to explore before you begin your journey through Romania. Castles are a must-see attraction on your Romania tour.

Bucharest Parliament

The Bucharest Parliament is a fascinating landmark which is known as one of the most iconic administrative buildings in the world. Its size is colossal, its design is opulent, and its history is rather complex. Some of the materials used to construct the building were marble, wood and crystals sourced from Romania. For Romanians, this is more than just a building but a symbol of change and the transfer between communism and democracy. Even though it is a functioning building, public tours are held for tourists on selected parts of the immense building.

Merry Cemetery

The Merry Cemetery is a colourful burial ground located in the village of Săpânța, celebrated for its unique approach to commemorating the deceased. The cemetery was created by a local artist and woodcarver. Each cross features a carved epitaph written in a humorous style and features insights into the life and personality of the deceased. Alongside the written epitaphs, playful illustrations depict scenes from the individual’s life. This site is protected by UNESCO and has become a significant cultural and artistic landmark in Romania.

"Dimitrie Gusti" National Village Museum

The "Dimitrie Gusti" National Village Museum is a cultural institution located in Bucharest. It was established in 1936 by the sociologist Dimitrie Gusti. The idea behind this museum is to preserve the country’s rural heritage and authentic village life. The museum is open-air and features over 200 buildings, such as houses, barns, churches and other structures. The Village Museum has distinct regional exhibits, each representing a specific ethnographic region, displaying the architecture and lifestyle of its respective community. In 1996, it was granted the European Museum of the Year prize.

Transfăgărășan Road

Transfăgărășan Road is a mountain highway located in the Carpathian Mountains, renowned for its spectacular highway and breathtaking scenery. It is considered one of the most scenic drives in the world. The road passes deep valleys, lush forests and glacial lakes. One of the most iconic lakes is Balea Lake, situated at 2,034 meters. It is a picturesque natural landmark which turns into a frozen wonderland during winter. Your Romania road trip must include this attraction by all means.

Salina Turda

Salina Turda is an underground salt mine and museum located in the town of Turda. It is a popular tourist destination, offering a fantastic world of salt chambers and recreational facilities. The mine has a long history dating back to the 17th century when salt extraction began in the area. The Terezia Mina is the largest chamber of Salina Turda, which features an underground lake with boats. Tourists can experience rowing on a subterranean salt lake together with other activities, such as mini-golf, bowling and billiards.

Fortified Churches

The fortified churches in Romania form a remarkable collection of historically significant treasures. They are part of Romania's cultural heritage and are protected by UNESCO. The south-eastern Transylvania region in Romania currently has one of the highest numbers of existing fortified churches from the 13th to 16th centuries. The churches were built by German-speaking Transylvanian Saxons during medieval times with the purpose of serving as both a defence against invasions and a worship centre for the people. If you are interested in history and cultural heritage, including these churches in your tour of Romania is a must.

Arutela Roman Empire Ruins

The Roman castra Arutela is a historical landmark located near the town of Călimănești. It was constructed around 137-138 A.D. during the rule of the military governor of Dacia Inferior - Titus Flavius Constans. This tourist attraction is great for all who are interested in ancient history treasures and remains. Between 1890 and 1892, Roman baths and partial ruins were discovered in the area. These discoveries remain the only epigraphic materials found on the site.

Painted Monasteries

The painted monasteries in Romania are a group of 8 Romanian orthodox monasteries located in the northeastern part of the country. They are UNESCO-protected sites due to their cultural and historical significance. Built between the 15th and 16th centuries, the monasteries feature a mix of Moldovian and Byzantine architectural styles. The most distinctive feature of the monasteries is the exterior frescos, which cover the walls of the churches. The monasteries are a masterpiece of religious art, making them a hot tourist destination, which contributes significantly to the local economy.

Viscri Traditional Village

Viscri is a traditional village located in Transylvania, which is renowned for its historical significance and picturesque landscapes. It serves as a prime example of a Saxon-fortified village built in the 12th century with the aim of protecting the local population from invasions. It is considered a cultural heritage for Romania and is therefore protected by UNESCO. The locals of the village are known for their hospitality, which contributes to the tranquil vibe of the place.

Astra Museum of the Folk Civilization

The Astra Museum of the Folk Civilizations, established in 1963, is one of the most extensive open-air museums in Europe. Visitors to the museum can explore a diverse range of exhibits, including traditional houses, barns, watermills, windmills, and more. You can also find skilled craftsmen practising age-old techniques and creating handmade products, such as pottery and blacksmithing. It is an excellent destination for those eager to learn and experience more of Romania’s cultural heritage and traditions.

When you embark on your Romania tour, there are certain activities worth trying. Of course, the type of activities you wish to include in your trip depends entirely on your preferences. We always advise our clients to think about what they wish to try out on their tour and let us know so we can plan the trip itinerary accordingly. If you have no idea what is available to you in Romania, take a look at the suggestions we offer here:

• • Relax in Therme Bucharest
  • Hiking in the Carpathians Mountains
  • Do inside the Bucharest Parliament Building
  • Drive via Transfagarasan road
  • Try wine tasting
  • Explore some of the many castles
  • Take a boat tour across the Danube Delta
  • Experience Bucharest nightlife
  • Roam around the Sighisoara old town
  • Find Sibiu’s house with eyes
  • Learn more about the history of Dracula
  • Take a scenic drive on the Olt River Valley
  • Visit the Black Sea Coast
  • Take a skiing trip to Poiana Braşov
  • Go bear-watching
  • Visit the Merry Cemetery
  • Visit the wooden churches of Maramureş
  • Taste sheep’s cheese
  • Listen to folk music
  • Go hiking in the Făgăraş mountain

1. Is Romania worth visiting?
Absolutely! Romania is a great tourist destination not only because of its breathtaking natural wonders and other historical landmarks but also as a SPA destination. Of course, the famous tale of Dracula comes from this country, and most visitors are quite intrigued to learn more about the legend and visit the castles.

2. Is it expensive to travel to Romania?
No! Romania is a cheap destination, not only compared to Western tourist countries but also to the rest of the Balkan countries. The correlation between the budget you need for a Romanian trip and the memories and experiences you will be left with is a decent one.

3. Is Romania friendly to tourists?
Yes! Romanian people are incredibly hospitable and friendly to tourists. Furthermore, many locals speak English, so it is convenient for a tourist to find his way in Romania.

4. What is the best time to travel to Romania?
It depends on the type of activities you wish to explore on your Romania tour. Generally, the autumn/spring season is best for sightseeing. However, if you wish to sunbathe on beaches of the Black Sea coast, summer would be the most appropriate time to visit. Since Bucharest hosts a famous Christmas Market in December, winter is also quite a busy tourist season for Romania.