Best of Transylvania's urban heritage (5 days, from Budapest)

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
From Budapest to Cluj: A Scenic Journey Through Oradea and Transylvanian Charm (470 km / 6h car transfer)
2 stops
1
Oradea
Start your day with a morning meet-up at your hotel in Budapest, where your guide will greet you for the journey to Romania. After a picturesque 3-hour drive through Eastern Hungary, arrive in Oradea, a gem of Art Nouveau architecture. Enjoy a delicious lunch followed by a guided city tour.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
2
Cluj-Napoca
Continue your journey along the Western Carpathians. Arrive in Cluj-Napoca in the late afternoon, where you’ll explore the highlights of this cosmopolitan city during a guided tour. With its lively cultural scene and rich history, Cluj offers a warm welcome to Transylvania. Wrap up your day with free time to savor dinner at a local restaurant before settling in for an overnight stay at a cozy 3-star accommodation in Cluj.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 2
Exploring Saxon Transylvania: Turda Salt Mine, Biertan Fortified Church & Sighisoara (180 km / 3h car transfer)
3 stops
3
Salina Turda
Start your day with a hearty breakfast before departing for Saxon Transylvania. Your first stop is Turda, home to the breathtaking Salina Turda, one of Eastern Europe's most remarkable underground wonders. With roots tracing back to the Middle Ages, this salt mine blends history and modernity in an unforgettable experience. *It is not recommended to visit the salt mine if you have heart, lungs, digestive and other health conditions.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
4
Biertan Fortified Church
Enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant en route to the picturesque village of Biertan. Here, visit the grand fortified church, the largest of its kind in Transylvania and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Learn about the fascinating history of fortified churches and their role in medieval Transylvania.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
5
Centrul Istoric Sighisoara
Arrive in the enchanting town of Sighisoara in the afternoon. Stroll through its narrow streets and discover the stories of this well-preserved 14th-century fortress, also a UNESCO site. Dive into the history of the German-speaking communities that shaped medieval Transylvania. End your day with dinner at a local restaurant before relaxing at a charming 3-star accommodation in Sighisoara, surrounded by the magic of this historic destination.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 3
From Brasov to Sibiu: Gothic Marvels, Dracula’s Legend & Saxon Heritage (300 km / 4h30min car transfer)
3 stops
6
Brasov Historical Center
Begin your day with breakfast before departing for Brasov, known as the ‘Crown City’ of the Saxons. Take a guided tour of the city center, including a visit to the iconic Black Church, the largest Gothic church east of Vienna, renowned for its stunning architecture and history.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
7
Bran Castle (Dracula's Castle)
After lunch at a local restaurant, set off for Bran via a scenic mountain road. Arrive at the legendary Bran Castle, famously associated with Dracula. Built in the Middle Ages and later modernized in the early 20th century, Bran Castle remains the most visited attraction in Romania. Explore its captivating halls and decide for yourself if Dracula is hiding within!
2 hours • Admission ticket included
8
Sibiu
In the late afternoon, travel to Sibiu, the best-preserved medieval fortified town in Transylvania and a former European Capital of Culture (2007). Enjoy free time for dinner at a local restaurant and take a leisurely evening walk through the charming streets of Sibiu. Conclude your day with an overnight stay in a cozy 3-star accommodation in Sibiu, soaking in the timeless beauty of this historic city.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
Day 4
From Sibiu to Timișoara: Medieval Marvels, a Vauban Fortress & Cultural Vibrance (330 km / 4h car transfer)
4 stops
9
Sibiu
Start your morning with breakfast, followed by a guided tour of Sibiu’s medieval charm, including its four defensive walls and the main three historic squares that define the city’s rich heritage.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket free
10
Cetatea Alba Iulia
Next, depart for Alba Iulia, beloved by Romanians for its historical significance. Touring the impressive Alba Carolina Vauban Fortress, uncover the fascinating tales of ancient Romans, Hungarian kings, and the pivotal union of Transylvania with Romania, all of which shaped this monumental site. Savor lunch at a local restaurant.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
11
Castelul Corvinilor
Continue your journey to Hunedoara for a visit to Corvin Castle, Romania’s largest Gothic castle. Once the seat of the influential Hunyadi family, including the legendary King Matthias the Just, this architectural masterpiece is steeped in history and grandeur.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
12
Timisoara
Arrive in Timișoara in the late afternoon, the city that sparked the 1989 revolution against the communist regime. Stroll through the streets of this 2023 European Capital of Culture, marvelling at its stunning Art Nouveau and Baroque architecture. Conclude your day with free time for exploration, relaxation, and an overnight stay in a comfortable 3-star accommodation in Timișoara.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
Day 5
Farewell Journey: Timisoara Highlights and Return to Budapest (320 km / 3h30min car transfer)
1 stop
13
Timisoara Historical Center
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before exploring the old city center of Timișoara. Dive into the rich history and architectural beauty of this 2023 European Capital of Culture, taking in its vibrant streets and iconic landmarks. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant before starting your return journey to Budapest. Arrive in Budapest in the late afternoon, marking the end of your memorable tour through Transylvania’s history, culture, and natural beauty.
2 hours • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• The salt mine is not recommended for travelers with acrophobia, claustrophobia or heart problems
• Comfortable shoes recommended

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