Bucharest City Tour - Overnight in Bucharest

Palace of Parliament - During a day trip in Bucharest, visitors can explore one of the world’s most debated administrative buildings. This private tour of The Palace of Parliament, also known as the People’s House, offers insights into the dangers and destruction a totalitarian regime like communism can inflict on a nation. Standing before one of the largest constructions globally, one feels dwarfed by the senseless opulence and megalomania that “the sleep of reason” can produce.

Capturing a selfie up-close is challenging, as you attempt to photograph the second-largest administrative building on Earth, after the Pentagon, creating a memorable experience to share with future generations.

Muzeul National al Satului “Dimitrie Gusti” - This private tour allows visitors to explore The Bucharest National Village Museum, showcasing Romanian traditions and illustrating how villagers built an ecological and sustainable environment. It offers a glimpse into their simple, modest lifestyle, harmoniously coexisting with their surroundings.

With guidance from a private tour guide, visitors enter the world of traditional Romanian houses, constructed from wood, adobe, stone, and other materials from across the country. National symbols like the mill and wooden church are also on display, highlighting how these spiritual and cultural treasures have united Romanians for millennia without the need for conquest.

Ateneul Roman - The next stop on the private tour is the Romanian Athenaeum, a prominent symbol of Romanian culture and often considered a representation of Bucharest itself.

Piata Revolutiei - A city-break in Bucharest must include a visit to The Revolution Square, a site of immense historical importance. Here, visitors can relive the moment when dictator Ceausescu was overthrown, leaving behind secrets of a vast fortune and controversies surrounding the state security service and his offshore accounts.

As previously mentioned, upon reaching the Senate Palace, visitors will see the building that once housed the Central Committee of the Romanian Communist Party, where the December 1989 Revolution began, a pivotal event that led to Ceausescu’s permanent removal from power.

Calea Victoriei - On Victory Avenue, visitors witness historical contradictions: on one side, the Royal Palace, and on the other, the Central Committee of the Romanian Communist Party and the Revolution Square, where Ceausescu fled by helicopter.

Visitors will encounter old orthodox churches shrouded in mystery, a music store with a vast selection, as well as casinos, bohemian restaurants, museums, theatres, tea shops, retail stores, and gift shops for souvenirs. The National History Museum, Romanian Athenaeum, CEC Palace, and more are also located here.

Centrul Shakti - A day trip in Bucharest offers the chance to experience the past through a blend of mystery and contrasts in the Historical City Centre, starting with Hanul lui Manuc, a massive fortified inn that served as a cultural and economic hub. Built around 1806 by Manuc Bei, a wealthy Balkan landowner, it was a gathering place for merchants passing through Bucharest.

In this historical and cosmopolitan area, with assistance from a private guide from Nicolas Experience Tours, visitors will find popular Bucharest restaurants, museums, old and spectacular churches, and an experiential library offering books, music, and souvenirs for an unforgettable experience.

Triumph Arch (Arcul de Triumf) - Similar to triumphal arches worldwide, but most akin to Paris’s Arc de Triomphe, this historical monument stands 27 meters tall (about 16 times the average person’s height) and holds significant historical value, having undergone numerous changes to reach its current design.

Beyond its impressive grandeur and imposing structure, a symbol of the fight for freedom, visitors may have the opportunity to admire four exhibits:

The Great War for the Unification of Romania (photography and film), The Heraldry of the Great Boyar Families (bronze effigies, photographs), The Arch of Triumph in Pictures (photographs, scale models), The Great Union of 1918 (featuring 1:1 replicas of crowns and royal scepters, photographs)

Curtea de Arges Monastery, Poienari Castle, Transfagarasan (only between June and September), Overnight in Sibiu

Curtea de Arges Monastery - Did you know Curtea de Arges is unique for its significant royal tombs?

It is well-known that truly good, beautiful, and enduring things come only through sacrifice, which becomes evident upon reaching the historic town of Curtea de Arges. With a rich and eventful past, visitors can explore the ruins of the Wallachian princely court, the 13th-century Royal Church, and the renowned Arges Monastery, a significant historical monument with a fascinating yet somber story.

Poienari Castle - For Dracula enthusiasts and adventure seekers, Poenari Castle is a must-see on a Romanian castle tour. Poenari Fortress, a ruined castle in Romania situated at 860 meters, is closely associated with Vlad the Impaler.

Climbing the 1480 steps to the castle allows visitors to follow in Dracula’s footsteps.

Transfagarasan Highway - Did you know the Transfagarasan Highway is one of the world’s most spectacular roads?

The breathtaking views and stunning scenery offered by this paved mountain road are indescribable; even the Top Gear segment, which named it the world’s most beautiful road, barely captures its essence.

Big Square (Piata Mare) - In Transylvania, Sibiu is a must-visit destination with a 900-year history. A city tour reveals why Sibiu was chosen as the European Capital of Culture, featuring the Evangelical Cathedral, Sibiu Old City Center, and the town itself, which are among Romania’s most visited attractions, catering to all tastes and providing a delightful travel experience for even the most discerning tourists.

For those who appreciate authentic cultural experiences, whether romantic or adventurous, Sibiu offers everything needed to relax, enjoy, and leave everyday stress behind, ensuring a fun and memorable trip.

The beauty of this ancient citadel, recognized for its architecture, street layout, cultural and artistic heritage, and stunning natural scenery, is flanked by the Fagaras and Lotru mountains.

Biertan Fortified Church, Sighisoara’s Citadel, Overnight in Sighisoara

Biertan Fortified Church - The Biertan Fortified Church, one of the first Transylvanian Saxon settlements in Ardeal, is a breathtaking historical monument recognized by the UNESCO World Heritage Centre.

Centrul Istoric Sighisoara - Did you know Sighisoara’s citadel was built in the 12th century?

To experience life in the Middle Ages, a visit to Sighisoara, Romania’s medieval town and Count Dracula’s (Vlad the Impaler) birthplace, is essential.

Built in 1280, the Sighisoara Citadel is not only one of Romania’s most visited attractions but also a living medieval fortress, inhabited for over 700 years – a rarity.

After a few steps on the cobblestone streets, past gates and massive stone walls reaching 14 meters high, visitors will realize they are in one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval towns. It’s no surprise the Romanian citadel is included on the UNESCO World Heritage list of historical and cultural landmarks.

Brasov Old Town, Bran Castle (Dracula’s Castle) - Overnight in Brasov

Brasov Historical Center - Next, explore the beautifully-preserved medieval town of Brasov, nestled in the Carpathian Mountains. A guide will lead a walking tour of the Old Town, revealing the Black Church, Old Town square, and medieval city walls. Visitors will have free time to enjoy the unique atmosphere in one of Brasov’s charming cafés.

In the evening, savor dinner at one of the town’s best restaurants, an excellent opportunity to sample traditional Transylvanian cuisine.

Bran Castle (Dracula’s Castle) - Bran Castle, a blend of myth and history.

Bram Stoker’s fictional portrayal of Dracula’s castle closely resembles Bran, leading many to believe he used its descriptions to create Count Dracula’s fictional home.

Outside the castle, visitors can sample traditional foods: handmade cheeses, pálinka (plum and pear brandy), and traditionally-produced ham and sausages.

Peles Castle, Sinaia Monastery, Snagov Monastery - Dracula’s Tomb - Back to Bucharest

Peles Castle - Once upon a time, there was a beautiful castle…

For those writing memoirs or wishing to boast about seeing Europe’s most beautiful castles, the Romanian royal family’s summer residence is a top tourist attraction in Romania and Europe, and its allure is soon understood.

Each year, thousands of notable figures and hundreds of thousands of tourists visit Romania for this attraction alone, to admire its beauty and, for a few hours, feel like royalty.

Visitors can see the “crown jewel” of the Carpathians and enjoy an unforgettable experience at this historical castle, which took 41 years to build (1873-1914).

Sinaia - On a private tour in Romania, visitors will explore the most beautiful mountain resort, a retreat for many kings and notable figures. Sinaia Monastery offers an escape from reality and a taste of orthodox spirituality, beautifully expressed in the artistic representations of this place of worship.

Upon passing the massive door of this fortified monastery, visitors enter a realm of peace and tranquility, blessed by the divine spirit, where even time seems to pause. With a private guide’s help, visitors gain a deeper understanding of Romania’s history.

The orthodox establishment, over 300 years old, is known as “the Cathedral of the Carpathians” due to its location in Romania’s most beautiful mountain resort, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. It was the first construction in this area, founded by Prince (Spatarul) Mihai Cantacuzino.

Snagov Monastery - This private tour reveals the controversial story of Vlad Tepes’ death, where monks secretly transported his remains to Snagov Monastery for burial in front of the altar for sanctification.

To learn more about Dracula/Vlad Tepes’ tomb and the beautiful island and monastery of Snagov, consider booking a city-break in Bucharest.

• Recommendation for hotels according to your budget
• Complimentary Wi-Fi in the car
• Guide’s accommodation, meals, and entrance fees covered
• Flexible itinerary changes even after tour start
• All car expenses covered (gasoline, parking, tolls)
• Private car exclusively for your group
• Private, licensed English speaking guide/driver throughout the tour

• – Accommodation, meals and beverages
• – Entrance fees as per the itinerary (about 35 Euro/Person)

Experience of Lifetime: 5-Day Journey Through Romania

Prepare yourself for an unforgettable five-day journey across Romania, where an eclectic mix of experiences await. A feast for the senses, this tour offers everything from iconic medieval destinations to untouched wilderness. We’ll take you through dense forests adorned with vibrant wildflowers, and introduce you to the fresh mountain air (depending on the season). The journey is interspersed with modern displays and will tantalize your taste buds with traditional flavors used in the delicious cuisine we savor in every medieval town we visit.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.