Project Description

4000 years of history – Tour

Romania, 4000 years of history, legends, places,  remarkable characters, inspiration

Day 1 – Bucharest, The Little Paris; discovering the city charm!

We suggest you arrive in the morning; it would be wonderful to have a full relaxing day in Bucharest.

Morning

This is the first day of the 4000 years of history – Tour.  The day could start having breakfast at Piranha Restaurant. This restaurant has the biggest green terrace in Bucharest. It is a real oasis of greenery with trees, flowers, birds, fish (even Piranhas), and other animals. There we can serve traditional Romanian food, while in the autumn the chefs are cooking in very big traditional pots, like the ones you can see in old Romanian villages. Visit the National Museum of Art of Romania. This is the best place where a tourist can see some of the core values of Romanian Culture. It is the best way to get in touch with the values, stories, prominent historical figures, traditions and to understand them as pieces of a great picture. The museum building itself has a beautiful history, because it used to be a royal palace, and also has an impressive architecture designed by last century’s most well-known architects in Europe.

Check-in at Hotel Cismigiu. Take a leisurely 5-minute walk from the museum to the hotel, conveniently located near the city center. Along the way, you’ll pass notable landmarks such as the Memorial of Rebirth, commemorating the heroes of the 1989 Revolution that marked Romania’s departure from Communist rule. The route also leads past the Kretzulescu Church, an 18th-century Brancovan-style building with a vibrant history saved from demolition during the communist era. Hotel Cismigiu, dating back to 1912, is one of Bucharest’s oldest and most renowned hotels. Originally a luxurious gathering place for Romanian artists and writers, it underwent challenges during wars but was rebuilt in 2012, now offering a rich and unique experience in Bucharest. (find more about the hotel on the official page ).

Midday

Visit to the old town. Take a short walk on the old streets of Bucharest, from the hotel to the Historical Center where you can find the well-known street called Lipscani. The route will pass near two symbolic buildings: the CEC Palace (finished in 1900, built by a French architect) and the National Bank Palace (a famous building, also built by French architects in the late 19th century).

We recommend having lunch at the restaurant “Crama Domneasca” (The Royal Wine Cellar). This restaurant has an old story and is still preserving chambers from 300 years ago. It is built in the same place where a part of the Royal Court (built by Vlad Tepes) used to be; the Royal Court has been modified many times after his reign. For many years, a part of the restaurant used to be the private cellar of the Royal Family, the place where their food and wine were kept. The rustic brick walls with tall arcades and the good food served traditionally make the atmosphere of the old centuries come to life (restaurant page).

Bucharest, known as the Little Paris, has a long history dating back to the 7th century, as documented in ancient chronicles. Serving as Romania’s capital since 1859, the city gained prominence in the 15th century when Vlad Tepes (Dracula) chose it as his preferred summer residence. Subsequently, it became a favored meeting place for the Royal Families of Wallachia.

Consider exploring Bucharest with a car tour, visiting key historical sites like the Athenaeum, a city landmark and concert hall completed in 1888. It is home to the George Enescu Philharmonic Orchestra and a symbol of the George Enescu International Festival. The Palace of the Parliament, the world’s second-largest building and the most expensive administrative structure globally, is a noteworthy stop. The Arch of Triumph, built in 1922 to commemorate Romanian victories in World War I, is another historic site. Take a coffee break in Herastrau, the city’s largest park, known for its lush greenery, a vast lake, and a scenic boardwalk with numerous terraces.

Evening

Enjoy dinner at “Caru cu Bere” (The Beer Wagon), an old beer house built in 1899 that preserves the atmosphere of bygone times. This special place in Bucharest offers a unique ambiance complemented by traditional Romanian music and cuisine. Experience live music performances by orchestras as you indulge in authentic Romanian dishes, providing a delightful immersion into Romania’s rich gastronomic culture.

Bucharest, discovering the city atmosphere. Cultural visits: The National Museum of Art, city tour by car (The House of Parliament, The Athenaeum, The Arch of Triumph), discovering the best places to eat (restaurant built on the ruins of The Royal Court (built by Vlad Ţepeş (Dracula)), city break in the most beautiful garden – Herastrau – and in the Historical Centre (a place full of people where the local color is well visible).

 

Day 2 – Discover the Brancovan Style and the traditions from the Center and Western parts of South Carpathians.

Morning

Start your day with breakfast at Hotel Cismigiu. Then, venture northward from Bucharest, passing through the city of Pitesti and crossing the hills of the Getic Plateau. After around 50 km, you will arrive in the city of Ramnicu Valcea. About an hour later, you will reach the town of Horezu, offering an opportunity for a lunch break at the local traditional House of Guests.

Midday

Horezu Monastery

Continue your journey to the Horezu Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site founded in 1690 by Constantin Brancoveanu, the 17th-century ruler of Wallachia. Known for his appreciation of spirituality and culture, Brancoveanu and his family were martyred in Istanbul by the Ottomans due to their religious beliefs. The monastery, built in the Brancovan Style, reflects the simplicity and exquisite sculpturing characteristic of Balkan Europe. Despite its massive construction, the style creates an illusion of softness and fragility. Explore the monastery’s value through its beautiful mural paintings and domes featuring semi-arch designs. Engage in a captivating experience as knowledgeable guides passionately narrate the Brancoveanu history, recreating the atmosphere of those times with inspiration and veneration.

Horezu pottery

The women’s cave

Continue the journey to the west to another village where you can explore the Women’s Cave (Pestera Muierilor). This 7000 m long cave, spanning four levels, earned its name because it served as a shelter for women and children during ancient war periods. Carbon-14 dating has revealed human bones dating back 29,000 years within the cave. Discover the cave’s fascinating formations, featuring domes reminiscent of Gothic architecture, gates, and interior waterfalls.

Evening

The first day outside Bucharest will end in a small village, in a region full of traditions and history, near the Brancusi Village. This house is called The Hunter’s House of Guests and it offers a unique experience through its ambiance.

A journey to the western part of Romania, discovering the Brancovan Style, the Horezu Monastery, the Horezu pottery (both part of UNESCO’s World Heritage List), The Women’s Cave and the traditional region where Constantin Brancusi, the great Romanian sculptor, was born.

Day 3 – Brancusi and his childhood place

Morning

Start the day with a traditional breakfast at The Hunter’s House of Guests.

Tismana Monastery

Start your morning by experiencing the tranquility of the mountains with a visit to Tismana Monastery. As one of Romania’s oldest monasteries and the oldest still in use in Wallachia, its roots are believed to trace back to the 14th century. The name Tismana, derived from the Dacian language, means “fortress.” According to legend, Monk Nicodim discovered this beautiful and unique location for constructing a monastery, preserving the nation’s faith in the Orthodox Religion for over 600 years. Nestled in a stunning setting surrounded by forests, waterfalls, rivers, and caves rich in flora and fauna, Tismana exudes a sense of silence and peace. The monastery houses precious old paintings and holds a significant historical background. During World War II, the National Bank Governor chose Tismana as a secure location to safeguard the nation’s money and gold from potential Russian invaders. After you visit Tismana Monastery, continue your journey to Hobita, the birthplace of the renowned sculptor Constantin Brancusi.

Constantin Brancusi and his inspirational world

Constantin Brancusi, renowned as “The Patriarch of modern sculpture“, stands among the greatest artists of the 20th century. His artistic legacy is celebrated globally and is exhibited in prestigious museums such as The Museum of Modern Art in New York, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, the National Gallery of Art in Washington D.C., The Pompidou Centre in Paris, the Guggenheim Museum in New York, The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, National Gallery of Australia, Fukuoka Art Museum in Japan, Tate Gallery in the UK, and the National Museum of Art of Romania.

Born into a peasant family near Targu Jiu, in the Romanian village of Hobita, Brancusi’s life and art embody simplicity and passion. His humble origins are reflected in his minimalist lifestyle, evident in his Paris workshop, where he spent a significant part of his life. Brancusi’s unwavering passion and belief in his dream to become a great artist became symbolic. Notably, he declined an invitation from Auguste Rodin to work in his studio with the famous phrase “nothing grows well in the shadow of a big tree“.

Brancusi embarked on a remarkable journey, covering over 1200 miles from Romania to Paris on foot, as economic constraints limited his travel options. This journey was a testament to his determination to pursue his dream and study at École des Beaux-Arts in Paris. His achievements not only realized his personal aspirations, but also paved the way for new and inspiring beginnings in the realm of sculpture.

Hobita, the village where the great sculptor spent his childhood 

Hobita, located in the southern part of the Carpathian Mountains near Targu Jiu, holds historical significance as the birthplace of the renowned artist Constantin Brancusi in February 1876. This village boasts a wealth of folk traditions and has a longstanding history in wood crafting techniques. Today, visitors to Hobita can explore the Constantin Brancusi Memorial House, providing insight into the inspirational environment of the artist’s childhood and offering a glimpse into the way of life for peasants in the late 19th century.

Midday

Reach Targu Jiu by noon. Here you can see some of the sculptures belonging to Brancusi and have a traditional lunch.

Targu Jiu

Targu Jiu, the largest city near Constantin Brancusi’s birthplace, holds a distinctive feature—the Sculptural Ensemble of Constantin Brancusi. Constructed in 1938, this ensemble comprises three remarkable outdoor sculptures: the Table of Silence, the Gate of the Kiss, and the Column of the Infinite (The Endless Column). Each sculpture carries profound symbolism. The Column of the Infinite serves as a memorial to Romanian soldiers who lost their lives in World War I, representing both the infinite gratitude of the Romanian people and the eternal cycle of life inspired by Orthodox beliefs.

Cartianu House

In the afternoon go north, toward the mountains. Before departing from this region, make a stop at a captivating location. Cula Cartiu (Casa Cartianu – Cartianu House) is a charming residence constructed in 1760, showcasing the delightful Romanian architectural style and a clever blend of wood and masonry. Presently serving as a small museum, it offers a glimpse into the region’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Fortress Banita

During your mountain journey, you will come across a Dacian fortress. Banita Fortress, constructed two millennia ago during the Dacian era, witnessed the Roman Empire’s conquest in the year 106. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the ancient walls of the fortress can still be observed at Banita, offering a tangible link to the region’s rich historical past nearly 2000 years later.

Evening

In the evening, the journey will take you to the other side of the mountains in the Hateg Region.  [/fusion_toggle]

Visit the old and famous Tismana Monastery, which is a spring of silence and harmony, followed by a visit to the most important places where the great artist Constantin Brancusi had spent his youth years; afterward visit his most famous sculptures: The Table of Silence, The Gate of the Kiss and The Column of the Infinite and discover the traditional houses from Northern Oltenia; also get in touch with the ancient Dacian culture through its fortress.

Day 4 Ancient and medieval castles, fortresses and churches

Morning

Good morning nature – we recommend having breakfast in the garden of the guest house where you spent the night.

Ulpia Traiana Sarmizegetusa

Visit one of Dacia’s pivotal sites following its annexation by the Roman Empire. Ulpia Traiana Sarmizegetusa, also known as Colonia Ulpia Traiana Augusta Dacica Sarmizegetusa, served as the capital of Roman Dacia, established in the aftermath of the Dacian-Roman War (105-106). Thanks to its strategic location, the city rapidly evolved into a vital economic hub, acting as the religious, political, and administrative epicenter of the new Dacia. With a population of approximately 20,000 to 25,000 inhabitants, the city’s robust fortifications endure to this day, preserving the stories from that era for present-day residents in the region.

The Colt Palace and the Colt Monastery

The journey continues to a hidden place between the mountains, where a palace and a monastery are located. The Colt Palace and the Colt Monastery were built in 1280 and 1315 respectively, and mark the origins of the Candesti family in Hateg County. Flourishing during the 14th and 15th centuries, the Candesti family owned over 30 villages, attaining considerable wealth. While the monastery has withstood the test of time and remains active, the fortified palace now stands as a picturesque ruin. Legend has it that Jules Verne, the renowned French writer, drew inspiration from these locations for his novel “The Carpathian Castle“.

Midday

We recommend you to have lunch in a traditional restaurant in Hunedoara town, near the castle.

The Corvins’ Castle

Romania has a relatively large number of castles, out of which The Corvins’ Castle is one of the most beautiful and impressive. It can even be referred to as one of the most beautiful medieval castles in Europe. Also called the Hunyad Castle or the Hunedoara Castle (In Romanian – Castelul Corvinilor, Castelul Huniazilor, Castelul din Hunedoara) it was constructed in 1446 on the orders of the formidable John Hunyadi (Iancu de Hunedoara), renowned for his conflicts with the Ottoman Empire. This castle is a masterpiece of 15th-century Europe. Combining Gothic and Renaissance elements, the castle has fortified walls, towers, expansive courtyards, and a bridge over a nearby river. Legends abound, including one suggesting that John Hunyadi once held Vlad Tepes (Dracula) captive before forming an alliance. Another tale surrounds a deep well, allegedly dug by Ottoman prisoners promised freedom if they reached water—a promise unfulfilled, leading to a poignant inscription on the well walls: “you have water, but not soul“.

Evening

In the evening go to a quiet place, in a village near Deva, here we recommend finding accommodation in a Castle House.

Day 4 is filled with history, because you will visit places with hundreds of years of age, such as the Dacian fortress conquered by the Romans named Ulpia Traiana Sarmizegetusa; you can also visit the following medieval palaces: The Colt Palace, Palace of Joules Verne, the famous Corvins’ Castle and a church of rocks dating from the medieval period. 

Day 5 Rare museums, ancient fortresses and unique caves

Morning

This morning is special because you can have breakfast in a castle garden; it will be like living in the medieval period and feel like the time treats you with all the patience in the world.

Fortress of Deva

Begin your day with a visit to the captivating Fortress of Deva. Nestled atop the highest hill in the town of Deva, this medieval marvel has a strategic location and a rich history. Originating in the 13th century, it was constructed on the site of an ancient Dacian fortress and served a crucial military role for over six centuries. Despite facing numerous conquest attempts, even by peasants in 1784, its military significance dwindled in the 19th century. Unfortunately, a massive explosion in the ammunition store in 1849 left the fortress in ruins. Today, this ancient site, though in disrepair, remains open to visitors, offering insights into medieval life and providing panoramic views of Deva.

The Gold Museum of Brad

The journey continues to a rare museum, The Gold Museum of Brad. It is one of the biggest museums of this kind and a unique place in Europe. Established a century ago, this museum has amassed a collection of over 2000 pieces, with 800 gathered from foreign lands. Immerse yourself in the allure of gold as you witness its presentation in its pure state or combined with other raw materials. Marvel at exceptional forms, such as a breathtaking exhibit featuring a lizard crafted from pure gold, valued at over 3 billion dollars. Beyond the glittering displays, the museum unravels the extensive history of gold exploitation in the region, dating back 2000 years.

The Apuseni Mountains

Head north to the Apuseni Mountains, a unique destination renowned for its captivating karst landscapes and elevated villages known as “cranguri“. As you ascend to altitudes reaching 1800 meters, encounter well-preserved villages where the elderly diligently uphold cherished traditions. Explore the karst relief by venturing through scenic resorts like Pades, Stana de Vale, and Ariesieni, each offering a plethora of trails to unravel the natural wonders of the Apuseni Mountains.

Midday

Have breakfast at a traditional local Guest House in the Chiscau village; this is the area where you will visit the Bear Cave.

The Bear Cave

The Bear Cave is situated at the foothills of the western part of the Apuseni Mountains. It is one of the biggest and most beautiful in the world. The cave was discovered in 1975 during limestone mining operations. The entrance to the cave was accidentally revealed, leading to its subsequent exploration. The Bear Cave is renowned for its paleontological importance. Fossils of cave bears (Ursus spelaeus) were found inside, dating back around 15,000 years. The cave bears were a species of bear that adapted to life in caves during the Pleistocene era. The cave consists of several chambers with impressive stalagmites and stalactites. The size of the cave is considerable, covering an area of more than 1500 meters. However, only a portion of it, approximately 488 meters, is open to the public for guided tours. The Bear Cave has become a popular tourist attraction, drawing over 200,000 visitors annually. Guided tours offer visitors the chance to explore the accessible sections of the cave, providing insights into its geological formations and the ancient bears that once inhabited it.

Evening

In the evening, go to Arieseni, in the heart of the Apuseni Mountains. A few kilometers away you will find accommodation at the Chalet Daria, a new Guest House built in the middle of nature.

Day 5 is a mixture of rare touristic objectives; visit an ancient fortress – Fortress of Deva, rebuilt in the medieval period, a wonderful and one of the biggest gold museums in the world – The Gold Museum of Brad and an amazing cave rich in formations – The Bear Cave.

Day 6 Old cities, mountain roads, nature, medieval castles and pure Romania.

Morning

The fresh air, the beauty and simplicity of the forest, the sound of the river and the positive spirit of the Apuseni Mountains will make this breakfast amazing. In the morning take a long trip following the roads that cross the mountains and arrive before noon at Alba Iulia.

Midday

Have lunch in Alba Iulia, in a medieval restaurant with decorations and an old traditional ambiance, built near the old fortress of Alba Iulia.

City of Alba Iulia

Alba Iulia is a significant city in Romania, with a rich history dating back to Neolithic times. Once known as Apoulon during the Dacian era, it later became Apulum under Roman rule, showcasing remnants of ancient Roman constructions. Throughout the Middle Ages, Alba Iulia maintained its importance, serving as the capital of Transylvania for nearly 150 years and witnessing the historic Union achieved by Mihai Viteazul in 1599.

Today, Alba Iulia stands as a cultural treasure, inviting visitors to explore its historical sites. The Habsburg Citadel, constructed between 1716 and 1735 in the Vauban Architectural style, is a star-shaped marvel with 7 towers, 7.2 miles in length, and 6 gates featuring elements inspired by ancient mythology. The city also houses the oldest Catholic Cathedral in Romania, the Roman Catholic Cathedral, built in the 13th century on the foundations of a 10th-century basilica.

Tourists can delve into Alba Iulia’s history by visiting landmarks such as The Union Hall, The Princely Palace, and the National History Museum of Unification. The Orthodox Cathedral of the Reunification, hosting celebrations on Romania’s National Day, stands as a symbol of unity since the Great Unification of 1918. With its 7,000 years of history, Alba Iulia offers a captivating journey through time.

Evening

In the evening have a short visit to another medieval castle, this time a smaller one. The Calnic Castle (Castle of Calnic is on the UNESCO World Heritage Sites List) was first mentioned in 1269. In the beginning, it was just a nobleman’s house, but in 1430 it was bought by the peasants to be transformed into a safe place of refuge. They added a fortress with a big tower (donjon) and a chapel.

Transalpina – the road that reaches 2145 meters in altitude; Back to nature, continue your journey to the accommodation place, a big Chalet situated in a green and silent place. To reach this place use a road that crosses the mountains called Transalpina. It is difficult to write something about Transalpina; it is a beautiful road that crosses the Carpathian Mountains with altitudes reaching up to 2145m. You have to be there to feel, see and be inspired by nature. It is amazing how close you are to the sky and how much emotion the road can offer you at its highest point.

Day 6 is a trip that shows a beautiful part of Romania – its ages, its cultural and social influences, its influence along the centuries and one of the most beautiful and important cities from the Central and Western part of the country – Alba Iulia.

Day 7 Medieval Ages, Fortress of Dracula, The first capital of Wallachia

Morning

Breakfast high in the mountains – good morning sun, good morning puffy clouds, hello birds. Back on the road – the highest altitude road in Romania, Transalpina. After a beautiful trip in the mountains, having witnessed amazing landscapes, you will arrive at a medieval church.

Midday

Lunch at Cozia, at a traditional restaurant near the medieval court.

Cozia Church

Cozia is a significant church in Romania, serving as a profound symbol of the Orthodox Religion. Founded by Mircea cel Batran, a prominent ruler of Wallachia, the church has historical ties to other great leaders like Constantin Brancoveanu. In the 18th century, Brancoveanu expanded the church, adding a porch, a fountain, a watchtower, and a chapel.

Notable for their dedicated fights and victories against the Ottoman Empire, both Mircea cel Batran and Constantin Brancoveanu left enduring legacies. The church’s fresco-style paintings, dating back to 1390, have been remarkably preserved. Situated near the Olt River, Cozia Church is embraced by a picturesque landscape, contributing to its cultural and historical significance in Romania.

Evening

Curtea de Arges – the royal jewelry of Romania. After another hour of driving, you reach Curtea de Arges, a beautiful town near the Fagaras Mountains. Romania is a country with many legends, beautiful places and special people. You can confirm this fact after your visit to Curtea de Arges, a small town in Arges County. We recommend seeking accommodation at The Royal House, near the Royal Court.

Visit to one of the most beautiful towns in Romania – Curtea de Arges, visit to the medieval Church of Cozia and a beautiful trip through the mountains.

Day 8 Curtea de Arges, discovering the medieval city, back to Bucharest

Morning

Breakfast at the accommodation. Explore Curtea de Arges, a town nestled in the Central Southern part of Romania, at the foothills of the Carpathian Chain. Once the first capital of Wallachia, this historic town, situated on the banks of the Arges River, dates back to the 12th century. After a pivotal battle with the Hungarian Empire, Basarab I moved the capital to Campulung Muscel, only for Vlaicu Voda to later restore it to Curtea de Arges in 1370.

Curtea de Arges has the oldest significant Orthodox church in Wallachia, The Princely Church, built in the 13th century and later consolidated in 1340. Noteworthy too are the ruins of the 14th-century Catholic church, San Nicoara Church, which once communicated through fire signals with Dracula’s Fortress (Poienari Fortress), located 20 km to the north, near the mountains. This church is connected by a tunnel system to The Princely Church. The Church of Olari, with its oil-painted walls and ancient Moldavian Style, adds to the town’s charm.

However, the crown jewel of Curtea de Arges is the Cathedral, a masterpiece constructed in the early 16th century in the Byzantine style, featuring substantial marble blocks. More than just an architectural marvel, the Cathedral is steeped in national myth and history, embodying the Creational Myth—a testament to the idea that great achievements often require significant sacrifice. Explore the rich tapestry of Curtea de Arges, where each stone echoes with tales of the past.

Midday

Indulge in a medieval-inspired lunch near the Royal Court in Curtea de Arges, soaking in the ambiance of times gone by. Following your meal, embark on a journey north to explore the Fortress of Dracula and the breathtaking Vidraru Lake.

The Fortress of Dracula, also known as The Poenari Citadel, sits 20 km north of Curtea de Arges at an altitude of 850 m. Constructed in the 14th century, it served as a refuge during the struggle against the Ottoman Empire and was later rebuilt by the infamous ruler Vlad Tepes in the 15th century. Although it fell into ruin after the 16th century, the fortress remains an intriguing historical site. Visitors must ascend over 1480 steps to reach the fortress, adding an adventurous element to the exploration.

Nearby, Vidraru Lake and the Vidraru Dam offer stunning anthropological landscapes with panoramic views of the Carpathian Mountains. The dam, stretching 166 meters, is nestled between two mountain peaks in a visually captivating setting. Whether gazing upon the Carpathian Peaks (Fagaras Mountains) from the dam, the scenery changes hues with the seasons, creating an ever-evolving spectacle.

On your return journey, pause 30 km before reaching Pitesti to visit The Vineyard and Tree Growing Museum in Golesti. Established in 1939, this museum showcases over 35 peasant households from ancient times, providing an authentic portrayal of social life for both villagers and boyars (wealthy individuals from ancient periods). Immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural heritage of this unique museum.

Evening

Back to Hotel Cismigiu in Bucharest.

Visit the beautiful town of Curtea de Arges, its famous Monastery, the first Royal Court, the Dracula Fortress and the beautiful mountains nearby.

Day 9 – Bucharest (day of departures)

This is the last day of your trip. Depending on your flight, you can have a shopping day in Bucharest, make some cultural visits, or just relax on a terrace until the time to go to the airport arrives.

Bucharest, exploring the city atmosphere. Cultural visits or shopping sessions depending on the flight hour.