Romania and Hungary – 8 Days Tour

Discover the essence of Central and Eastern Europe on this 8-day cultural adventure through Hungary and Romania. This well-balanced tour blends grand cities, UNESCO-listed sites, medieval castles, and charming Transylvanian towns, offering a complete experience of both modern life and timeless heritage. From Budapest’s imperial avenues to the Gothic ramparts of Brasov and the Baroque splendor of Oradea, each stop along the way reveals a new layer of architectural brilliance, historical intrigue, and regional flavor.

The journey begins in Budapest, the Hungarian capital split by the Danube into the historic Buda and vibrant Pest sides. After exploring this stunning metropolis, continue south to Szeged, a university town brimming with Art Nouveau gems and lively cafés. Crossing into Romania, you’ll arrive in Timisoara, a city often referred to as “Little Vienna” due to its Habsburg architecture and cultural richness. The nearby city of Arad offers an elegant blend of neoclassical buildings and tranquil promenades, marking your entry into the romantic landscapes of Transylvania.

In Hunedoara, the spectacular Corvin Castle stands like a Gothic fantasy, while Sibiu, the former European Capital of Culture, enchants with its colorful squares, narrow lanes, and eye-shaped rooftops. As you move through the heart of Transylvania, visit iconic sites like Bran Castle, often linked to the Dracula legend, and Peles Castle, a fairytale palace nestled in the Carpathians. Sighisoara, one of Europe’s best-preserved inhabited citadels and a UNESCO site, takes you straight back to medieval times. At Biertan, admire the massive fortified church—a powerful symbol of Saxon heritage.

The tour continues with a stop in Cluj-Napoca, Transylvania’s unofficial capital, blending bohemian charm with dynamic energy. From there, head west toward Oradea, one of Hungary’s former imperial jewels now thriving in Romania, known for its stunning Secessionist architecture. The final return to Budapest offers a chance to reflect on the deep contrasts and common cultural threads woven between these two neighboring nations.

With expert guidance, comfortable accommodation, and rich sightseeing, this tour is perfect for those seeking to discover the heart and soul of Romania and Hungary in just eight days.

Day 1: Arrival in Budapest

• Arrival at Budapest International Airport

• Meet and greet by local representative

• Orientation tour of Budapest (depending on flight schedule)

• Transfer to 4* hotel and check-in

• Welcome dinner at local restaurant or hotel

• Overnight in Budapest

Day 2: Szeged – Timisoara – Arad (Approx. 280 km)

• Breakfast at the hotel

• Depart Budapest and cross into Romania

• Stop and walking tour of Szeged with its striking Votive Church and Art Nouveau architecture

• Continue to Timisoara and guided orientation walk: Unity Square, Victory Square, Orthodox Cathedral

• Arrival in Arad and hotel check-in

• Dinner and overnight in Arad

Day 3: Hunedoara – Sibiu (Approx. 298 km)

• Breakfast at the hotel

• Drive through the Carpathian foothills to Hunedoara

• Visit Corvin Castle, one of Romania’s most iconic Gothic fortresses

• Afternoon drive to Sibiu, a beautifully preserved medieval town

• Walking tour with local guide: Large Square, Small Square, Bridge of Lies, Lutheran Cathedral

• Dinner and overnight in Sibiu

Day 4: Sibiu – Brașov (Approx. 140 km)

• Breakfast at the hotel

• Free time to explore Sibiu at your own pace

• Departure for Brașov via scenic mountain roads

• Arrival and guided walking tour: Black Church, St. Nicholas Church, Council Square

• Optional: Folkloric dinner with traditional music and dance (extra charge)

• Dinner and overnight in Brașov

Day 5: Castles of Peleș and Bran (Approx. 120 km)

• Breakfast at the hotel

• Visit Peles Castle in Sinaia, a masterpiece of Neo-Renaissance architecture

• Continue to Bran to explore the famous Dracula Castle

• Learn about the history and legends of Vlad the Impaler

• Return to Brașov for dinner and overnight stay

Day 6: Sighișoara – Biertan – Cluj Napoca (Approx. 310 km)

• Breakfast at the hotel

• Visit Sighișoara, a perfectly preserved medieval citadel and UNESCO World Heritage Site

• Guided walking tour: Clock Tower, Covered Stairway, Birthplace of Vlad the Impaler

• Continue to Biertan and visit the fortified Saxon church

• Afternoon drive to Cluj Napoca

• Dinner and overnight in Cluj Napoca

Day 7: Cluj Napoca – Oradea – Budapest (Approx. 460 km)

• Breakfast at the hotel

• Scenic drive through the Apuseni Mountains

• Stop in Oradea for a short walk through its elegant Baroque and Art Nouveau town center

• Cross the border back into Hungary

• Return to Budapest and check into hotel

• Optional: Evening Danube River cruise with illuminated views of Budapest (extra charge)

• Farewell dinner and overnight in Budapest

Day 8: Departure from Budapest

• Breakfast at the hotel

• Transfer to Budapest Airport according to flight schedule

• End of services

8 days

• Explore both Buda and Pest sides of Budapest with guided visits to major landmarks
• Visit Szeged and Oradea, two Art Nouveau cities off the beaten path
• Discover Romania’s western gateways: Timisoara and Arad, rich in Habsburg heritage
• Tour the fairytale Corvin Castle in Hunedoara and iconic Bran Castle in Transylvania
• Wander through the medieval citadel of Sighisoara and UNESCO-listed Biertan

Prices start from 1290 EUR (exact pricing may vary based on group size and additional services).

• 7 nights in centrally located 3-4* hotels or guesthouses
• Daily breakfast
• Modern, air-conditioned vehicle with driver for all transfers
• Professional English-speaking tour guide throughout
• Guided tours and entrance fees to major sights (Peles Castle, Bran Castle, Corvin Castle, Biertan Fortified Church, etc.)
• Airport transfers on arrival and departure
• Border crossing assistance (Hungary–Romania)

• This tour is available year-round and can be customized for private departures.
• Comfortable walking shoes recommended for cobblestone streets and castle visits.
• Travel insurance is not included and is highly recommended.
• A valid passport is required for border crossing between Hungary and Romania.
• Tour is available in English; other languages available upon request for private groups.