A Journey Back in Time: Countryside from Transylvania and Maramures – 15 Days

Taking a closer look at the 15-day “Journey Back in Time,” offered by Touring Romania, reveals a tour that promises an in-depth exploration of Romania’s rural charm, history, and culture—all in a comfortably organized package. With a stellar perfect 5-star rating from seven travelers, this tour seems to hit the right notes for those craving authentic sights combined with convenience.

What really shines are the personalized approach and careful curation of lesser-visited sites. The guide, George, receives glowing reviews for his deep knowledge and genuine passion, making every stop more engaging. I also appreciate that all logistics—transport, accommodations, most meals—are handled, freeing you from planning stress. One consideration? The price of around $4,585 per person isn’t cheap, but with so much included, it’s a solid choice if you value comfort and expert guidance for a complex itinerary.

Key Points

• Private, personalized experiences ensure a tailored journey that matches your interests.
• Comfortable transportation and all-inclusive logistics mean less hassle and more focus on enjoying the sights.
• Authentic stays in traditional villages offer a glimpse into local life, not just tourist spots.
• Well-curated itineraries balance famous attractions like Bran Castle with off-the-beaten-path villages.
• Knowledgeable guides like George enhance the experience with insider stories and cultural insights.
• High-quality reviews reflect consistent satisfaction among travelers, especially regarding scenery and guide expertise.

An Introduction to Romania’s Countryside: A Generous 15-Day Tour

This private tour from Bucharest truly offers a comprehensive look at Romania’s countryside, weaving together history, nature, and local traditions in a way that’s both accessible and deeply immersive. At around $4,585 per person, it’s on the higher end, but considering the inclusions—transport, accommodations, most meals, and a dedicated guide—you’re paying for a well-orchestrated experience that’s tough to replicate independently.

What sets this tour apart is the personalized attention and the chance to explore sites that aren’t overwhelmed by travelers. The reviews repeatedly praise guides like George, who goes above and beyond to craft a trip that feels more like visiting friends than being herded around. Several travelers highlight the knowledgeability and enthusiasm of their guides as a key reason why their experience stood out.

While the price might raise eyebrows, the value becomes clearer when you consider the difficulty of arranging transportation, accommodations in traditional villages, and visits to sites like the Libearty Bear Sanctuary or the Merry Cemetery—places that can be tricky to navigate on your own. The tour also balances must-see sights like Bran Castle and Peles Palace with lesser-known gems, providing a full spectrum of Romania’s cultural landscape.

A Day-by-Day Breakdown of the Itinerary

Day 1: Bucharest — Your journey kicks off with a walking tour of Romania’s lively capital. Without extra cost, you’ll get a quick overview of the city’s main sights, setting the stage for what’s to come.

Day 2: Sinaia and Fundica — Visiting Peles Castle brings you into Romania’s royal past, with its ornate interiors and lush gardens. Then, you’ll head to Fundica, a mountain village celebrated for its scenery, where you’ll spend two nights. Expect breathtaking views, fresh mountain air, and a peaceful setting.

Day 3: Dracula’s Castle and Rasnov Fortress — The famous Bran Castle is a highlight, but what’s better is the guide’s effort to clarify what’s legend versus reality. Afterward, the Rasnov Citadel and the Libearty Bear Sanctuary provide a deep dive into local history and nature conservation. Multiple reviews praise this day for its variety and authentic experiences.

Day 4-6: Saxon Villages and Medieval Towns — Visiting Viscri, Prince Charles’s favorite village, offers a glimpse into rural life and Saxon architecture. Then, you’ll explore Sighisoara, one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval towns, and move into quieter villages like Malancrav, Biertan, and Valea Vilor. The guided visits to Fortified Churches, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, are a highlight—they blend history, architecture, and local stories.

Day 7-10: Maramures—Wooden Churches, Authentic Villages, and Rail Rides — The transition to Maramures feels like stepping into a living museum. The Surdesti Wooden Church and Barsana Monastery reveal religious and cultural traditions. The train ride in Mocnia—a steam locomotive adventure—serves as both fun and a look into historical transport. Spend days wandering in villages like Breb, meeting locals, and soaking in the untouched rural scenery, which reviews consistently describe as “almost stolen from medieval paintings.”

Day 11-13: Rimetea, Alba Iulia, and Sibiu — Visiting Rimetea, regarded as one of Romania’s most beautiful villages, is an authentic slow day. The Alba Iulia Citadel offers a political and cultural history lesson, while Castelul Corvinilor impresses with its gothic architecture. The highlight of day 13 is the Transfagarasan Highway—spectacular for its hairpin turns and mountain vistas. If traveling outside peak season, transportation may involve a cable car instead, which still offers dramatic views.

Day 14: Curtea de Arges Monastery — On your way back to Bucharest, this ornate monastery provides a fitting finale, blending spiritual tradition with visual beauty.

What Travelers Love Most

Multiple reviews emphasize the expertise of guide George, who is not just knowledgeable but appears genuinely passionate about his country. A reviewer states, “George is an excellent guide and passionate Romanian,” and others mention how he tailored the experience to their interests.

The scenery is another huge draw. From the mountains along the Transfagarasan to quaint villages like Viscri and Breb, you’ll find countless photo opportunities and moments of awe that make the high price worthwhile. One traveler raved about staying in traditional old Saxon houses—a rare chance to experience local architecture firsthand—which makes the trip quite immersive.

Unique highlights like the Merry Cemetery—with its cheerful, hand-painted wooden crosses—and the steam train ride through Maramures are much-loved additions, offering authentic local flavors that most travelers won’t encounter on a typical visit.

Practicalities and Value

The tour covers all transportation—private minivans and local transport—so you avoid the headache of self-driving or navigating public transit. Accommodation in traditional villages means you’ll likely stay in charming, locally-run guesthouses that provide a taste of rural life. The majority of meals are included, which helps with budgeting and allows you to sample regional cuisine without fuss.

While the itinerary is packed, the pace seems manageable, with plenty of time to wander, rest, and absorb each place. The tour is suitable for travelers who appreciate comfort but still want an authentic Romanian experience—not just the typical tourist track.

It’s worth noting that some sights are closed on Mondays or public holidays, so flexibility might be necessary. Also, the Transfagarasan Highway is only open from July to October, with an alternative cable car route outside this window.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for history enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and those who value guided comfort. If you enjoy meeting locals, tasting regional food, and discovering places off the usual tourist radar, this tour delivers. It’s also perfect for travelers who prefer having logistics handled and a knowledgeable guide to deepen their understanding.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer independent travel, the cost may seem high. But considering the difficulty of organizing such a broad itinerary on your own—plus the insider knowledge and special accommodations—this package offers strong value for those seeking a hassle-free, authentic Romanian adventure.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Generally, yes. The itinerary involves walking and some travel over mountainous terrain, but most travelers of reasonable fitness should enjoy it.

Are meals included?
Most meals are included, with breakfast served throughout the journey. You might find some dinners are regional specialties, adding to the cultural experience.

What is the guide’s role?
George, the main guide, is praised for his expertise, enthusiasm, and flexibility. He personalizes the experience and makes sure all logistics run smoothly, so you can focus on enjoying Romania.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses air-conditioned minivans and private vehicles, ensuring a comfortable ride through scenic countryside.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, it’s often possible to tailor certain elements, especially if arranged in advance with the provider.

What about destinations closed on certain days?
Some sights are closed on Mondays and holidays, so the itinerary may need small adjustments.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
While it’s a private group experience, solo travelers are welcome, and the guide works to ensure everyone feels included and comfortable.

This journey through Romania offers a well-balanced mix of sights, stories, and scenery wrapped in the convenience of expert guidance. If you’re seeking an immersive, comfortable adventure that goes beyond the surface, it’s an experience that will leave you with lasting memories—and perhaps a little longing to return.