From CAD 5,595
Guarantee
Small Group
Light
Rating
(20 reviews)
Experience Overview
Travel across the border from Belgrade through the heart of Transylvania to Bucharest on this 11-day Premium adventure. From medieval fortresses and fairytale castles to vampiric lore and cobbled Old Towns, this journey will reveal Romania’s top sights and lesser-known charms. Travel through endless mountain scenery, visit multiple UNESCO World Heritage sites, descend into an otherworldly salt mine, tour a winery known for its sparkling rose, wander through Transylvanian Saxon villages and spend a night in the Szekler Mansion.
Highlights
- Step into another world as you walk through ancient halls and hear the myths and legends surrounding some of the most impressive castles in Eastern Europe – Bran and Peles.
- Dine like royalty in Azuga, where you’ll share lunch with bubbles after a tour of the town’s winery – the sparkling tipples were the favourite of Romania’s last monarch, King Michael I.
- Dive deep into one of the oldest salt mines in Europe, in use for about 2000 years. Spanning more than 43 km, Turda Salt Mine contains an amusement park, a contemporary art museum and an underground lake.
- Explore the cobbled streets and medieval marvels of Sighisoara – a UNESCO World Heritage city with historical churches, cafes and museums, and a deep history dating back to the Romans.
- Discover the Transylvanian Saxon villages of Malancrav, Medias and Biertan – home to historic fortified churches, timeless rural traditions and fairytale scenery.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2964
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Unknown
Transport: Private vehicle
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: WMPB
Starts: Belgrade, Romania
Finishes: Bucharest, Romania
Duration: 11 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Light
Includes
Accommodation: Comfortable hotel (9 nights),Feature Stay (1 night)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 5595 (CAD 509 /day)
Itinerary
Dobro dosli! Welcome to Serbia. Your adventure begins in Belgrade. When you arrive at the airport, you’ll be met by a representative and brought to your hotel. Join your local leader and fellow travellers for a welcome meeting at 6 pm. If you arrive early, check out the city’s many museums – including the one dedicated to Nikola Tesla, the Serbian American inventor known for transforming the world’s understanding of electricity. Or maybe get a caffeine fix with a Turkish coffee at a kafana – these traditional coffee houses date back to the Ottoman era. After the meeting, get to know your group over dinner at a local restaurant and explore the flavours of Serbian cuisine.
Optional Activities:
- Belgrade - Military Museum (350 RSD)
- Belgrade - Ethnographic Museum (300 RSD)
- Belgrade - Nikola Tesla Museum (800 RSD)
- Belgrade - Museum of Yugoslav History (400 RSD)
- Belgrade - House of Flowers (400 RSD)
- Belgrade - Danube River Cruise (800 RSD)
- Belgrade - National Museum (300 RSD)
This morning, travel by private vehicle to Timisoara, crossing the Serbia-Romania border. Timisoara is a park-filled city where an uprising of local people sparked the Romanian Revolution in 1989. This saw the fall of the country’s Communist regime – reflecting the broader political change seen across Eastern Europe at the time. On a guided walking tour, you’ll take in some of Timisoara’s most significant sights – including the grand and aptly named Victory, Liberty and Union Squares – and learn more about the city’s history.
Included Activities:
- Timisoara - City Tour
Head to Sibiu after breakfast, stopping on the way to visit Sarmizegetusa Regia – the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Dacia. Romania’s answer to Stonehenge, Sarmizegetusa Regia was a centre of religious, military and political significance until it was invaded by the Romans in 102 AD. It is now a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the oldest and most mysterious historical sites in Romania. After touring the site with a local guide, continue to Sibiu, where you’ll get acquainted with the cobbled streets and squares on a guided walking tour. Sibiu is known for its creative, bohemian atmosphere, rich history and architecture. Explore what remains of the city’s medieval walls and towers, cross the legend-shrouded Bridge of Lies and take in the grandeur of Brukenthal National Museum before a free evening.
Included Activities:
- Sibiu - Evening Walking Tour
- Sarmizegetusa Regia - Guided Tour
This morning head to the outskirts of the city to explore ASTRA Village Museum. Set across 96 acres surrounding a sparkling lake, this open-air living museum seeks to preserve, showcase and celebrate Romanian folk culture and traditional ways of life. Wander the grounds to discover reconstructed old dwellings, windmills and workshops and learn how Romanian people of centuries past grew food, raised families and made a living. The afternoon is free to visit the Orthodox Cathedral or admire the slightly less imposing (but equally magnificent) Gothic Lutheran church. Alternatively, grab a covrigi (a tasty Romanian pretzel), wander the old town and snap photos of the colourful, Wes Anderson-style architecture.
Included Activities:
- Sibiu - ASTRA Village Museum
Optional Activities:
- Sibiu - Brukenthal Palace National Museum (39 RON)
- Sibiu Museum of Contemporary Art (12 RON)
- Sibiu - Holy Trinity Cathedral - Free
Depart Sibiu and head to Alba Lulia – one of the oldest cities in Romania. It is home to an 18th-century citadel with a history that dates to Roman times. Shaped like a seven-point star, the fortress features a collection of ornate gates and vantage points, as well as numerous museums and cafes. Wander the cobbled streets with an expert guide to hear more about what went on within these ancient walls over the last two millennia. Next, drive to the Trascau Mountains to reach Coltesti and check in to Szekler Mansion – your exclusive Feature Stay. This evening, sit down for a traditional meal which might feature hearty bowls of borsch or goulash, locally made cheese and sarmale (smoky, meat-filled cabbage rolls).
Included Activities:
- Alba Lulia - Citadel Tour
On your way to Sighisoara today, stop off at the Turda Salt Mine. This huge subterranean space was renovated and opened to the public in the early 1990s and resembles an alien planet or a Bond villain’s lair. Don’t forget to pack a sweatshirt – it gets chilly 119 m down! When you resurface, head to the nearby town Medias, where you can catch a glimpse of the Trumpeter Tower, a medieval structure with a distinctive tilt. Finish your journey in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Sighisoara – your home for the next two nights and the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the historical figure and inspiration behind Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Explore the colourful streets of Sighisoara’s old town on a guided walk and then enjoy a free evening.
Included Activities:
- Turda - Salt Mines Tour
Start your day by visiting the UNESCO World Hertiage site Biertan, home to a 15th century fortified church perched high on a hill in the centre of town. Then, drive to Malancrav for lunch in a bucolic setting – the Saxon village was once owned by one family, the Apafis, and populated with German farmers. Maybe see the Apafi Mansion and the 14th-century church that features the oldest wall paintings in Transylvania. Head back to Sighisoara after your sightseeing and spend the rest of the day exploring as you wish.
Included Activities:
- Malancrav - Village Stop
- Medias - Town Stop
- Biertan - Town Stop
- Sighisoara - Walking Tour
After breakfast, set off for Brasov, making a pit stop at hilltop Rupea Fortress along the way. The restored citadel’s steep and rocky pathways spiral up to the highest point, offering sweeping views over the surrounding fields. Next, you'll visit Bran Castle – perhaps Romania’s most famous attraction, given its associations with the tale of Count Dracula. Vampire myths aside (it was never actually home to Vlad the Impaler or Bram Stoker), the forested surroundings and lofty location of this 14th-century castle is a great setting. This evening you’ll reach Brasov and have dinner together at a local restaurant.
Included Activities:
- Rupea - Fortress Stop
- Bran Castle - Tour
Your tour of Romanian castles continues with Peles. Built in the late 19th century, the neo-Renaissance creation is even more extravagant on the inside than it is on the outside. Return to Brasov and, in the afternoon, join your leader for a walk, learning about the city’s most notable sights. You’ll see the remnants of the old medieval fortifications, the Black Church – damaged in the 1689 Great Fire but now restored – and the wedge-shaped Council Square, lined with historic buildings. Round the day off with the Romanian sweet treat of chimney cake (or kurtoskolacs as the locals call it).
Included Activities:
- Brasov - Walking Tour
- Peles - Castle Visit
- Brasov - Chimney Cake Tasting
Today, you have a free morning in Brasov. Maybe seek out tiny String Street, which is 44 inches at its narrowest point or indulge in some Romanian sweet treats like papanasi (a sweet cream doughnut topped with blueberry jam). Depart the city and head for lunch in the Prahova Valley, where you’ll tour a local winery known for its sparkling rose in the mountain town of Azuga. Hit the road one last time, reaching Bucharest in the late afternoon.
Included Activities:
- Azuga - Winery Tour and Tasting with Lunch
Your adventure comes to an end after breakfast. If you’d like to spend some more time in Bucharest, just speak to your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.
Optional Activities:
- Bucharest - Village Museum (30 RON)
- Bucharest - Bike Tour (25 EUR)
- Bucharest - Former Ceausescu Residence (65 RON)
- Bucharest - Romanian Athenaeum (10 RON)
- Bucharest - Palace of Parliament Tour (60 RON)
- Bucharest - Urban Adventures Bohemian Bucharest Markets and Mahallas Tour (75 EUR)
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Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
David - Traveled, July 2023
Romania (Transylvania) is a real surprise - forget your preconceptions. Rich history and culture, beautiful towns and countryside, and varied cuisine. All brought to life by a superbly organised small group tour offering a real insight into the country. Led in our case by Raluca Bolnavu, the perfect guide in every way
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/01/2023
Libby - Traveled, July 2023
Totally concur with David ‘s comments . Romania was unexpectedly engaging and thoroughly enjoyable . The towns we visited had intriguing histories – past and recent. Raluca was the most delightful guide with a real passion for her country and preservation of its traditions and environment. There was an interesting variety of accommodation which was well chosen for location/character.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/06/2023
Judy - Traveled, July 2024
One holiday I will always remember with a smile
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/31/2024
Brian - Traveled, July 2024
This trip is a great introduction to the Balkans. Lake Ohrid and Kotor were definitely the highlights of the trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/22/2024
Richard - Traveled, June 2024
Western Balkans Uncovered was a really excellent trip around a relatively underexplored part of SE Europe. Dubrovnik is obviously heavily visited but the other (7) cities and towns were also certainly worth visiting with a lot of preserved character. So much great food & wine. Fine organisation and Sando was a terrific tour leader.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/03/2024
Barbara - Traveled, May 2024
One of the great things about this trip is that it's at a relaxed pace, cities are smaller and easy to navigate on foot. Was great to learn about the culture and history of these countries and to absorb the beauty that nature has to offer. A part of the world that mostly still slips under the radar but l suspect not for much longer. Get in before it does! There's a lot to offer here.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/05/2024
Qaiser - Traveled, May 2024
My first time in Balkans was made memorable by an excellent tour guide Vladimir and amazing travellers on this trip. My overall knowledge about culture and history has improved significantly by local tour guides in addition to seemingly infinite resourcefulness of tour leader. I will be returning on this and other trips with Intrepid.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/31/2024
Anne - Traveled, May 2024
An amazing experience. Knew very little about this part of Europe, but our amazing tour guide, local guides, walking tours of cities and accommodation staying 2 nights in each city made for a memorable trip. Nice to have a breakfast included daily.and then 3 other meals, either lunch of dinner, especially a "farm to table" meal was amazing. Worth every penny trip trip cost.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/24/2024
Elizabeth - Traveled, May 2024
We had a wonderful 12 days touring the Balkans. Our guide was wonderful- knowledgeable, flexible, communicative and had a lovely sense of humour. We enjoyed being part of a smaller group (eight of us) from different parts of the world! The itinerary was varied and interesting and offered lots of options. Would highly recommend this tour!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/23/2024
Antje - Traveled, May 2024
Great tour to get insights into the diversity of the balkan countries. Very well organised with Dina as an excellent guide and a very well designed program with very good inclusions and great optional activities in particular our beloved wine tasting in Ohrid and the relaxing boat trip in stunningly beautiful Kotor bay, I simply loved this tour.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/23/2024
Nancy - Traveled, April 2024
Dora is a superb tour guide. She shared information about the Balkans that brought deeper understanding of the regions history, their differences and similarities, as well as their cultural identities. I have a much greater appreciation for the countries struggles during the oppressive years of communism.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/04/2024
Nancy - Traveled, April 2024
Dora is a superb tour guide. She shared information about the Balkans that brought deeper understanding of the regions history, their differences and similarities, as well as their cultural identities. I have a much greater appreciation for the countries struggles during the oppressive years of communism.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/04/2024
MARGARET RUTH - Traveled, April 2024
An excellent trip which was comfortable, interesting , varied, historically informative and most of it all it was a lot of fun. We learnt a lot about the history, culture and food of the counties and their people and had a chance to try some of the food which was wonderful. I think the guide makes a difference and we had an excellent guide in Dora.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/21/2024
Mary - Traveled, April 2024
This trip provides an introduction to the complicated ancient and recent histories of countries I had no idea are so different yet in the same geographical region. Dora is an outstanding leader
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/03/2024
Ilke - Traveled, September 2024
Had a great time! Fun people, interesting itinerary. No stress, good balance between included activities and things you can explore on your own. And we could count on Marija, our leader, to point us towards the best food (and todos) in the area! Don't forget to bring a raincoat, as yes it rains in the Western Balkans!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/20/2023
Scott - Traveled, September 2024
This is an excellent tour for those looking to expand their knowledge of a very complex part of the world. We had an exceptionally talented guide in Vladimir. While still only scratching the surface of this incredible region, there is now a desire to come back and see much more.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/10/2023
Scott - Traveled, September 2024
This is an excellent tour for those looking to expand their knowledge of a very complex part of the world. We had an exceptionally talented guide in Vladimir. While still only scratching the surface of this incredible region, there is now a desire to come back and see much more.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/10/2023
Valerie - Traveled, September 2024
Really enjoyed this trip. Nice mix of cultural activities and walking. Our tour guide Dina was terrific. I highly recommend this trip. I think the trip could be extended to include Bosnia.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/27/2023
henrice - Traveled, August 2023
An excellent introduction to the western Balkans . The trip offers a mix of culture and activity . Good balance of scheduled and optional activities. The itinerary is great and there’s sufficient time to see the highlights . Having tasted the highlights I will certainly come back to some of the countries visited
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/10/2023
Emil - Traveled, August 2024
Balkans are a region still flying under the radar, but becoming more and more popular as they develop and rise their quality of life. It was really interesting to find out about the history of the Ex Yugoslavia and the communist party in Albania, which I wasn't really aware of. Generally speaking the experience has been great, more for the people I've meet, but also Ohrid and Dubrovnik were really amazing spots. Highly recommended.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/08/2024
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