Day 1: Arriving in Bucharest
Welcome to Romania! Start your journey in Bucharest, Romania’s bustling capital. You’ll likely be tired from your travels, so take it easy today. Spend your time wandering through the city center and get a taste of the lively atmosphere.
Stroll around Old Town (Lipscani District) to admire the city’s beautiful mix of medieval and modern architecture. If you’re feeling up for it, head to the famous Palace of the Parliament—Romania’s most iconic building and the 2nd largest administrative building in the world.
Day 2: Exploring Bucharest
Now that you’re rested, today’s all about discovering Bucharest’s main attractions. Begin at the Village Museum, an open-air museum showcasing traditional Romanian rural life. It’s a great place to get acquainted with the country’s history and culture.
Afterward, visit Cismigiu Gardens, the city’s oldest park. It’s the optimal spot for a relaxing walk or picnic. Later, check out the National Museum of Art, housed in the former royal palace, to dive deep into Romanian art and history.
In the evening, grab dinner in the Old Town and enjoy some traditional Romanian food (try “sarmale” or “mititei”) while soaking in the nightlife.
Day 3: Day Trip to Snagov Monastery and Mogosoaia Palace
Take a leisurely day trip out of Bucharest. First, head to Snagov Monastery, a peaceful island monastery known for being the supposed burial place of Vlad the Impaler (yes, the real-life Dracula!). It’s a calm and scenic spot that allows you to escape the city noise.
Afterward, visit Mogosoaia Palace, a short drive from Bucharest. This impressive 17th-century palace showcases medieval and Renaissance architecture. Spend some time exploring its gardens and the surrounding lake before heading back to Bucharest in the evening.
Day 4: Exploring Brasov
Catch an early train or bus to Brasov, a charming medieval town nestled in the heart of Transylvania. You’ll immediately notice the beautiful architecture and mountains surrounding the city.
Take a casual walk through Council Square and visit the Black Church, the largest Gothic church in Southeast Europe. Afterward, hop on the Tampa Cable Car for incredible views of Brasov from above. Spend the rest of the day roaming the cobbled streets and enjoying the relaxed pace of life here.
Day 5: Day Trip to Bran Castle and Rasnov Fortress
A visit to Romania would not be complete without seeing Bran Castle, commonly known as “Dracula’s Castle.” It’s a short bus ride from Brasov, and while the castle itself isn’t as spooky as the legend, it’s a must-see for its history and position overlooking the countryside.
On your way back to Brasov, stop at Rasnov Fortress, a hilltop citadel with panoramic views of Transylvania. It’s far more off the beaten path than Bran, so you’ll enjoy fewer crowds here. Explore the fortress ruins before heading back to town.
Day 6: Relax in Brasov
Today is a chill day. You’ve been busy, so take it easy and spend the morning wandering around Brasov’s backstreets, stopping for a coffee or pastry at any local café. You could also visit the Romanian Orthodox Cathedral or take a walk through one of the nearby parks.
If you’re up for an adventure, consider a short hike around the Tampa Mountain trails. It’s a refreshing way to disconnect from the city and take in some nature.
Day 7: Sighisoara – Birthplace of Vlad the Impaler
Take a bus or train to Sighisoara, one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s a beautifully colorful town full of cobbled streets and old churches, making you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.
Spend the day exploring the town’s Clock Tower and visiting the house where Vlad the Impaler was born. Walk up the 175 covered steps to the Church on the Hill for sweeping views of the area. Stay overnight in a guesthouse for more immersion.
Day 8: Travel to Sibiu
Today, hop on a train or bus to Sibiu, another Transylvanian gem. Known for its Germanic architecture, Sibiu is a beautifully preserved town with a relaxed vibe.
Spend the afternoon wandering through the Large Square and Small Square to discover hidden streets and cafes. Visit the Brukenthal Museum and the Evangelical Cathedral before treating yourself to some local Romanian delicacies for dinner. Remember to try a bite of “papanasi,” a local cheese-filled dessert commonly found here.
Day 9: Astra Open-Air Museum and Free Time
In the morning, visit Astra Museum, located just outside of Sibiu. This is one of Europe’s most impressive open-air museums and a fantastic way to learn about Romania’s rural culture and way of life.
After your museum visit, spend the rest of the day at your own pace. Wander through Sibiu’s old town again or relax in a park. This day can be as flexible as you need it to be—whether you want to keep exploring or simply relax and take in the charm of Sibiu.
Day 10: Travel to Cluj-Napoca
Take a morning bus or train from Sibiu to Cluj-Napoca, the unofficial capital of Transylvania. This is one of Romania’s major university cities, so expect a lively and youthful vibe.
Spend your first few hours here wandering the streets, then head to the Botanical Garden to unwind amidst its beauty. In the evening, grab a meal from one of the many trendy restaurants and enjoy Cluj’s energetic nightlife.
Day 11: Explore Cluj-Napoca
Today, dive deeper into Cluj’s rich history and culture. Start by visiting St. Michael’s Church, one of the main landmarks in town, then stroll through the Union Square area for more local insight.
If museums are your thing, visit the National Museum of Art and the Ethnographic Museum. These are compact enough to explore within a couple of hours. In the afternoon, wander through Central Park or even climb up to Cetatuia Park for panoramic views of the city.
Day 12: Off-the-Beaten-Path in Turda Gorge
Ready for some adventure? Take a day trip to Turda Gorge, an incredible canyon just outside Cluj. You’ll find several short hikes through the gorge, plus plenty of jaw-dropping views.
If you still have energy, visit the nearby Salina Turda, a massive salt mine turned underground theme park. It’s both an educational and unusual experience, with boat rides on underground lakes and Ferris wheels inside the mine. Afterward, head back to Cluj for your last night here.
Day 13: Journey to the Maramureș Region
Today, head for the serene Maramureș region, one of Romania’s most culturally rich and untouched areas. This part of the country is famous for its wooden churches, rural scenery, and welcoming locals.
Check into a guesthouse in a local village and soak in the traditional life of Maramureș. Depending on where you’re staying, you may be able to visit one of the region’s UNESCO wooden churches, which date back hundreds of years. Spend the rest of the day relaxing in the peaceful countryside.
Day 14: One Last Day in Maramureș
For your final day, take it slow and enjoy the authenticity of Maramureș. You can visit the Merry Cemetery in Sapanta, known for its colorful tombstones and light-hearted approach to death. It’s unique to this region and worth the visit.
You can also take a walk through the surrounding hills and forests or visit a local market to pick up some handicrafts and souvenirs. By now, you’ll have fallen in love with Romania’s natural beauty and laid-back charm. Enjoy your last evening with a home-cooked meal in your guesthouse before heading back toward Bucharest or your next destination.
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