From CAD 3,155
Guarantee
Small Group
Light
Rating
(20 reviews)
Experience Overview
From the beautiful Baroque churches of Budapest to the haunted castles of Transylvania, this ten-day journey across Eastern Europe provides a fascinating insight into an intriguing region. Learn about the failed Turkish invasion of Eger and take a wine cellar tour in the Valley of the Beautiful Women. Become acquainted with traditional Romanian culture and customs in Maramures. Tour the medieval churches of Brasov, including Bran Castle and dine with a local family on an overnight homestay in Viscri. Visit Bucharest's 12-storey Palace of Parliament and enjoy free time to explore your favourite sites further. This jam-packed journey perfectly introduces two Eastern European treasures, soaked in fascinating history and featuring modern-day delights.
Highlights
- Sample the famous Hungarian 'Bulls’ Blood' in Eger – the wine that supposedly gave the Hungarian army supernatural strength during their battle against the Ottoman Empire.
- Experience peasant life on a full-day tour through the countryside of Maramures – Romania's most traditional and colourful region. Don't be surprised if you see horse-drawn carts along the road!
- Learn spooky stories in Transylvania – the birthplace of the world's most famous vampire, Dracula. Then visit Bran Castle in Brasov – the inspiration for Dracula’s home.
- Enjoy a homestay with a local family in the Saxon town of Viscri, exposing you to Romanian hospitality and some delicious home-cooked food.
- Delve into the communist past and the thriving, artistic present-day of Bucharest – a city often underrated by travellers but offering heaps of sights, sounds and smells to be explored.
- By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, Humana. Donations help provide job opportunities and education programs in sustainable fashion and textiles for people with disabilities.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2967
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Train,Public bus,Private vehicle,Metro,Taxi
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: WMSB
Starts: Budapest, Hungary
Finishes: Bucharest, Hungary
Duration: 10 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Light
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (9), Dinner (3)Accommodation: Hotel (6 nights),Pension (2 night),Homestay with shared facilities (1 night)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 3155 (CAD 316 /day)
Itinerary
Szia! Welcome to Hungary. Since the collapse of communism, Budapest has experienced something of a renaissance. The grand architecture and boulevards evoke a time gone by, while glamorous stores and restaurants make this one of the truly great cities of Europe. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. After, you might like to head out to explore the city by night – the twinkling lights of the evening are an essential part of the Budapest experience. Maybe visit the Jewish Quarter for dinner and explore the many options for a celebratory nightcap.
This morning, take a train east to Eger. This beautifully preserved Baroque town is surrounded by hills and is home to some of the most renowned vineyards in Eastern Europe. Visit the wine cellars of the seductively named Valley of the Beautiful Women to sample some of the town's famous 'Bull's Blood' red wine (which supposedly gave the Hungarian army supernatural strength during their battle against the Ottoman Empire). In your free time, maybe explore Eger's 13th-century castle, which was the scene of the historic siege that thwarted the Ottoman Empire's advancement into Western Europe. Here, you can explore the Gothic Palace, a gallery of fine Hungarian art, and tour underground passageways of archaeological finds. You may also like to check out the town's 19th-century cathedral, the northernmost medieval minaret in Europe for views of the city, or the Minorite church in Dobo Square.
Included Activities:
- Eger - Wine Sampling
Optional Activities:
- Eger - Castle (4000 HUF)
- Eger - Minaret (800 HUF)
- Eger - Astronomy Museum, Camera Obscura, Panoramic terrace in the Lyceum building (2600 HUF)
- Eger - Town Under The Town (4500 HUF)
This morning, travel to the pleasant town of Debrecen. While here, you'll have time to explore Deri Square with its fountains, colourful buildings, museums and golden Great Church. Continue by train and private vehicle across the central plains into the Maramures region of Romania – this region may be modernising, but among the traditional wooden houses, churches, music and forests, you can still find parts of life unchanged since medieval times. When you arrive, settle into your room at the pension – your accommodation for the night is run by a local family. Sit down for a homecooked dinner with your group and get to know the locals, their stories and their lifestyle.
Today you’ll discover more about the region of Maramures (mah-ra-moo-resh). Rich in tradition and folklore, the music, costumes, festivals and ancient superstitions of one of the last peasant cultures in Europe continue to thrive here. Maramures is particularly famed for its wooden churches, many of which are World Heritage-listed. Set out on a guided group tour to explore the region, visiting the unique Merry Cemetery in Sapanta, where the life stories of the deceased are displayed on colourful wooden crosses. There are poems, limericks and little pictures illustrating how the person died, all single-handedly carved over 40 years by Stan Ioan Patraş, until 1977 when his apprentice took up the work. You’ll also see other traditional villages including the village museum in Sighetu – an assembly of beautiful local wooden architecture.
Included Activities:
- Maramures - Day Tour with Local Guide
- Maramures - Sapanta Merry Cemetery
- Maramures - Barsana Monastery
This morning, get ready for a scenic drive to Sighisoara – while the name may conjure up images of haunted castles, gothic churches and vampires, this is only a small part of what makes Transylvania such an enchanting and exciting destination. Medieval Sighisoara is likely to seduce visitors more than any other place in Romania. Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the town was first settled by the Romans but flourished under the Saxons from the 12th century. Take a walk around the old town, which coils up a narrow hill surrounded on all sides by fortified walls and explore the 64-metre-high clock tower that dominates the citadel. The town is famed as the birthplace of Vlad Dracul III, better known as Vlad the Impaler, whose name inspired Bram Stoker’s iconic Count Dracula. Vlad III is revered as a folk hero by Romanians for driving off the invading Ottoman Turks, of which his impaled victims are said to have included as many as 100,000. Tonight, maybe sit down for a traditional Romanian dinner at Casa Dracula.
Optional Activities:
- Sighisoara - Church of the Dominican Monastery (10 RON)
- Sighisoara - Covered Stairway - Free
- Sighisoara - Church on the Hill (5 RON)
- Sighisoara - The Clock Tower (16 RON)
This morning, take a short drive to the village of Viscri – this small Transylvanian village was originally inhabited by Saxons from the Luxembourg area and the rural landscape is picture-perfect. This idyllic village of red tiled roofs is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, virtually unchanged for 900 years. You’ll visit the town's fortified church (thought to be the oldest in Transylvania) and learn about the Sock Project, which supports the local Roma community. Time permitting, you may even like to go for a horse cart ride through the area, over pastures and through wondrous woods of oak and hornbeam. In the evening, indulge in a home-cooked dinner prepared by a local family, sampling fresh produce, homemade wines and schnapps. Tonight, stay in rustic houses that the locals rent out to visitors.
Included Activities:
- Viscri - Local Home Cooked Dinner
- Viscri - Sock Project
- Viscri - Fortified Church
Optional Activities:
- Viscri - Prince Charles House (15 RON)
- Viscri - Blacksmith demonstration (80 RON)
This morning, you’ll visit the famed Bran Castle. Said to be the inspiration for the home of Bram Stoker's Dracula, the castle isn’t too spooky, but it is undeniably impressive. Perched on a high cliff top and surrounded by pine trees, you’ll explore the castle with your leader and group – this is the perfect photo op! After, travel to Brasov and enjoy free time to explore, checking out the ornate churches, townhouses and squares surrounded by gingerbread-roofed merchants' houses. For those looking for a bit of nightlife tonight, Brasov has plenty of funky bars and restaurants to enjoy once darkness falls.
Included Activities:
- Bran Castle - Tour
Today after breakfast, you will enjoy a full free day in Brasov. Also known by its German name of Kronstadt, the town is flanked by mountains and was once a major medieval trading centre. When you arrive, enjoy some free time to wander, take an optional activity or just find a good spot to eat and people-watch. The town's main attraction is the gothic Black Church (Biserica Neagra), which took its name from its blackened appearance after a fire in 1689. Maybe stroll along pedestrianised Strada Republicii, take a cable car up to Mt Tampa, or maybe explore the nearby Rasnov Fortress. The fortification is perched on a rocky hilltop above the town of Rasnov and was constructed by Teutonic Knights in the 13th century as a refuge for the common people from Tartar invaders.
Optional Activities:
- Brasov - Cable Car to Mt Tampa (50 RON)
- Rasnov - Fortress (20 RON)
- Brasov - Walking Tour with Local Guide (200 RON)
- Brasov - The Black Church (20 RON)
Head south to Bucharest on the train today – the city is increasingly known for its cosmopolitan vibe and energy. While not the most beautiful or stylish city, there are some wonderful art nouveau buildings, ancient churches and monasteries, lush parklands, lakes and elegant boulevards. Romania's capital also likes big things – it’s home to one of Europe's biggest squares, and its Palace of Parliament is the second-largest building in the world! You'll embark on a guided walking tour around town to help you get your bearings, and then you have loads of free time to choose your own adventure. Explore some of the sights further or maybe seek out some traditional home-cooked Romanian food with your fellow travellers.
Included Activities:
- Bucharest - Walking Tour with Local Guide
Optional Activities:
- Bucharest - Bike Tour (25 EUR)
- Bucharest - Urban Adventures Bohemian Bucharest Markets and Mahallas Tour (75 EUR)
- Bucharest - Village Museum (30 RON)
- Bucharest - Palace of Parliament Tour (60 RON)
- Bucharest - Romanian Athenaeum (10 RON)
- Bucharest - Former Ceausescu Residence (65 RON)
There are no activities planned for the final day, and you can depart the accommodation at any time. If you want to stay longer, just speak to your booking agent.
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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
Roland - Traveled, October 2023
I was booked on the Bucharest to Kiev trip which for understandable reasons had to be cancelled so chose I this trip as a second best option to get to know Romania. I learned a lot so it was a good decision.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/17/2023
Jerrod - Traveled, October 2023
Very fun and educational trip. Homestays were great!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/10/2023
Cindy - Traveled, October 2023
Great trip, shared with fabulous people and an amazing tour leader. Great insight into Romania, visiting cities, towns and villages, lots of great food and conversation.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/04/2023
Samantha - Traveled, October 2023
The trip was amazing! Our guide was amazing and so helpful with everything. I’ve been wanting to go to Romania for years and actually being there made me fall in love with the country. All of the activities were great and having our free time was great. I would definitely recommend this trip to anyone wanting to travel to Romania.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/20/2023
Annette - Traveled, October 2023
Hungary and Romania are wonderful destinations. The combination of city, town and villages gave me a great experience of the countries. Our tour leader was remarkable and was passionate about the destinations and what they offered. We had some exceptional food and drinks included and great recommendations in the other places.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/31/2023
Paul - Traveled, September 2023
Great trip would highly recommend it
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/23/2023
Teena - Traveled, September 2023
Great short trip to two fascinating countries and the opportunity to learn a little of their history. We had an outstanding leader in Raluca and a great tour group. Exceeded all our expectations.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/30/2023
Christopher - Traveled, September 2023
What a great experience! I was able to visit so many places that would have not been possible on my own! Gigi our leader made it feel so comfortable and like you were travelling with a good friend! I definitely recommend, make sure to give yourself some extra time in Budapest.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/22/2023
Jacqueline - Traveled, August 2023
Alex was a wonderful guide & this was an amazing trip! I loved having the chance to learn so much about a part of the world I didn’t know that much about. Thanks to everyone that was part of my group for also being such great people to travel with : )
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/13/2023
Deb - Traveled, August 2023
Really enjoyed the Eastern European trip. Interesting, varied itinerary, great local guides and Petar was a fantastic tour guide - a local with lots of interesting information about the counties.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/17/2023
Kathryn - Traveled, August 2023
A fabulous trip. Romania is such a beautiful country with such a tormented history. The places we visited were delightful. The Romanians inspired me with their resilience. Gigi was a brilliant leader.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/21/2023
Amanda - Traveled, August 2023
Budapest to Bucharest 9 nights. Excellent. Our wonderful guide Gigi, together with the local guides provided comprehensive insights into the history, culture and politics of Romania over the last 800 years. The two homestays (3 nights) were the absolute highlight of the trip. Staying in homes in two beautiful and historic villages provided experiences that I will cherish forever.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/22/2023
Veronica - Traveled, August 2023
What a beautiful and fascinating country. We stayed in some of the most unique homestays and had some delicious food. Sandu and our day guides are clearly very passionate about sharing their country's culture, and I learned so much while on this tour.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/22/2023
Esme - Traveled, August 2023
I went on a tour of Hungary and Romania with my 80 year old mother and two teenage children. Such and interesting and varied tour . Great to experience it all with such a well informed and competent tour guide -Sandhu. So different from the rest of Europe.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/22/2023
Sylvia - Traveled, August 2023
Intrepid had given us another interesting trip. We had a great leader, Sandu, who made it all easy for us and challenged us as well.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/22/2023
Sjoerd - Traveled, July 2023
The Budapest to Bucharest trip was a great trip to dicover and learn more about Hungary and Romania! Transsylvania is absolutely stunning!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/18/2023
Sarah - Traveled, July 2023
this is a good trip lead by Intrepid if you want to know more about Budapest and Romania. Amazing architectures and beautiful forests.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/02/2023
Niki - Traveled, June 2023
I loved this trip of Romania- in particular, Maramures and our host Ramona's delicious food and hospitality (and her cat, Mara!). Other highlights included Viscri and Brasov - I would recommend this tour to others, particularly if you have Petar as your leader (thanks Petar!) and I was lucky to have a pleasant group of travellers who all got along.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/17/2023
Andrea - Traveled, June 2023
A fantastic trip. I learnt so much about the history and culture of the area. The home stays were an absolute highlight. Our guide Petar was fabulous
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/24/2023
Sarah - Traveled, May 2023
This trip is an excellent introduction to Hungary and Romania. The diverse stops in Romania give fantastic insight into the various regions from country life in Viscri and picturesque villages of Maramures and Sighi?oara to city life in Brasov and Bucharest. I particularly loved the homestay and staying centrally to the town squares in Sighisoara and Brasov. The local guides in Romania were excellent and I learned a lot about the history, culture and people.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/24/2023
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