Top 10 Small Group Tours to Romania – Discover the land of Dracula
Discover Transylvania, the land of Dracula. Join us on one of the top 10 small group tours to Romania from our catalog and explore impressive places such as the Count’s birthplace, Sighisoara Medieval Citadel.
Our group tours in Romania are tailored for tourists who want to discover our amazing country, as well as for Dracula enthusiasts who can’t wait to walk in the Count’s footsteps. From its medieval castles and fortified churches to its breathtaking landscapes, the area offers an abundance of experiences for every type of traveler. If you’re planning a visit, here are the top 10 Romania small group tours available that will immerse you in the region’s rich culture and captivating charm.
Top 10 Small Group tours to Romania – Contents
If you want the complete experience, we recommend booking one of our Awarded Halloween Tours and join us at up to 3 unforgettable parties.
Keep reading this article and discover the best small group tours to Romania. Explore our catalog and choose the itinerary which suits you best. Visit us on a 3-days Short Break, a 4 or 5-days Private Tour or even on the Awarded 7-Days Vampire or 8-Days Halloween Tour and enjoy an unforgettable experience.
Top 10 Small Group Tours to Romania
The Awarded 8-Days Halloween Tour including 3 fun parties
Without a doubt, the best small group tour Romania is the Awarded 8-days Halloween itinerary with 3 fun parties included. Discover the best Dracula-related highlights while exploring impressive historical and cultural places. The flagship of our Romania group tours includes attending our Halloween Party in Sighisoara Citadel, the popular party at Bran Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle, and a fun Halloween Dinner, venue to be announced soon.
This impressive small group tour to Romania was included in the Top 10 Must-Do Adventures by the prestigious Fodor’s Travel Guide and was named “2019 Tour of the Year” by Tour Radar.
Highlights include Snagov Monastery – Dracula’s alleged burial place, the Medieval Saxon cities of Sibiu and Brasov, Corvinestilor Castle or the unique Turda Salt Mine, which attracts tourits from all around the world. Recently, the most subscribed creator on YouTube shot a video inside the Salt Mine. Discover the modern architectural wonder with an amusement park, recreational facilities, and an underground salt lake and learn the fascinating history of this landmark.
The highlights of this particular Halloween tour are the amazing parties included. First of all, you are invited to the Halloween Party in Sighisoara Citadel, Dracula’s birthplace. Discover an impressive schedule including the Ritual of Killing of the Living Dead, performed according to old customs and traditions, a magic show which will leave you amazed and “Vampiresa Hunting”, an impressive ballet performance.
Next, our small group tours to Romania on Halloween include the popular Halloween Party at Bran Castle. Join us for a delicious traditional dinner, followed by a unique night tour of the castle which only takes place on the day of the party. Last, but not least, you are invited in the tent mounted on the grounds to party till morning.
If this is still not enough, you will also visit the ground floor of Peles Palace, the former summer residence of the Romanian Royal family, currently a museum owned by the state.
Find out more and book this itinerary here!
Small Group tours to Romania – 7-Days Vampire Tour in Transylvania
Discover the best Dracula-related highlights on our 7-Days Vampire tour in Transylvania. These small group tours to Romania take place once per week, between May and October, and include events such as the Ritual of Killing of The Living Dead (for groups of at least 4 travelers). Highlights include Sighisoara Citadel, Corvinestilor Castle, Turda Salt Mine or Bran Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle. Special editions of this tour, such as the Halloween edition, feature three fun parties.
Visit Snagov Monastery, where Vlad Tepes is believed to be buried, followed by a delicious welcome dinner in Bucharest. Travel to the Medieval Saxon City of Sibiu, European Cultural Capital for 2007. Sibiu includes the most tourits attractions out of all the cities in our country.
The following day, arrive in Hunedoara and explore Corvinestilor Castle, the greatest Gothic-style castle in Romania. Once you discover the legends surrounding this castle, travel to Turda, enjoy a special Vampire dinner and then take part in the Ritual Killing of the Living Dead. Help us defeat the evil strigoi, enjoy a shot of local brandy and then retire for the night.
Other highlights include the impressive Turda Salt Mine, followed by Sighisoara Medieval Citadel, the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the ruthless ruler later known as Dracula. Sighisoara is the best-preserved and still inhabited medieval citadel in Europe. Next, there is no Dracula tour without the most important place related to the count: Bran Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle. Explore the old halls and discover the actual connection between Vlad the Impaler and this castle.
The 7-Days small group tours to Romania, along with our Awarded 8-Days Halloween tour are the flagships of our catalog, the best tours you can attend in Transylvania. If you are not yet convinced, the next tours on our list can help you make the best decision for your holiday.
Read more and book your tour now!
3-Days Halloween from Bucharest – Small group tours to Romania
Apart from the Awarded 8-days Halloween tour, we also organize shorter small group tours to Romania. One of them is the 3-Days itinerary from Bucharest, including two fun Halloween Parties. Our experienced guide collects the group from the capital of our country. After a scenic drive including amazing views as you are crossing the Carpathian Mountains, arrive in the charming Medieval Saxon Citadel of Sighisoara. Accommodate in a 3* medieval hotel and, in the evening, join us for an impressive event: the Great Dracula Ball in Transylvania. The program includes Vampiresa Hunting – a mesmerizing ballet performance, followed by a captivating magic show and by the Ritual of Killing of the Living Dead, performed by our team according to old customs and traditions.
Once you recover from this experience, you will arrive in Bran village. Accommodate at your hotel and get ready. The evening includes a delicious festive dinner, followed by a unique night tour of Dracula’s Castle and the popular Halloween party organized in a tent mounted on the grounds.
Discover the price and departure date and book your tour now!
3-Days Halloween Short Break, departing from Cluj-Napoca
The 3-Days Halloween group tours in Romania are similar to each other. The only difference is the starting city. If you have a flight landing in Cluj-Napoca, it’s not worth traveling the distance to Bucharest in order to begin your tour there. We can pick you up in Cluj-Napoca and start from here.
Just like on our 3-Days small group tours Romania from Bucharest, this itinerary takes you to Sighisoara Medieval Citadel first. Accommodate in a medieval hotel and, in the evening, join us at the great Dracula Ball in Transylvania. Be a part of the amazing events of the evening and dance till late in the night. The following day, travel to Bran Village and get ready for your second party, taking place on the grounds of Dracula’s Castle.
If your small group tours Romania depart from Cluj-Napoca, this is where they also conclude. For all our itineraries, the drop off location is the same as the one where you were picked up from. If you require a different drop off, just let us know and we will try to find the best solution together.
Explore the land of Dracula on our amazing 3-Days short break from Cluj-Napoca. Book your adventure now!
Small group tours Romania – The Great Dracula Ball on Halloween – City Break
We organize our fun Halloween Party every year, in Sighisoara Citadel, the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler. This year, we have decided to take it to the next level. Instead of our regular party, taking place in the dungeon of a medieval hotel, we are organizing the Great Dracula Ball in the Palace of the Shire.
Choose this city break and arrive in Sighisoara Medieval Citadel on your own terms. Accommodation is include in the price, so all you have to do is show up at the hotel and prepare for the main event. In the evening, join us for the best Halloween Party in Transylvania.
Guests arrive at 19:00 (or 7:00 PM). You will enjoy a delicious dinner, complemented by a special program. Get ready to be amazed by a show put together by two innovative magicians, Eduard and Bianca. Next, attend ‘Dracula’s Wedding’, a ballet performance presented by a professional ballet troupe. Your evening continues with the Ritual of Killing of the Living Dead, an exciting and thrilling event performed by our team. Join us and re-enact the killing of a ‘strigoi’, the Romanian term for the living dead. If we survive the ritual, we will all enjoy an after party with devilish dance till late in the night in order to celebrate our victory.
Don’t forget to bring a Halloween costume with you. Do your best and show off your creativity. Don’t hold back and surprise us since we will award the best costume of the evening.
Join us now and have fun at the Great Dracula Ball on Halloween. Book your seat now!
1-Day City Break with Halloween Party at Bran Castle
Experience a unique Halloween adventure in the heart of Transylvania! This 1-day city break is perfect for those seeking a taste of our unforgettable Halloween small group tours Romania. Make your own way to Bran Village and check into your comfortable 3-star hotel.
Indulge in a delicious traditional Romanian dinner, accompanied by an open bar featuring local wines and spirits. Once the feast is over, prepare for a thrilling, self-guided night tour of the legendary Bran Castle. Explore its eerie corridors and chambers, and feel the chilling presence of history.
Dance the Night Away: After your castle adventure, join the electrifying Halloween Party at Dracula’s Castle! Located in a specially erected tent on the castle grounds, the party will feature music, dancing, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
This 1-day City Break is designed to give you a taste of our incredible Halloween itineraries. If you’re captivated by the magic, consider returning next year for our 3-day experience which includes our Halloween Party in Sighisoara Citadel as well as the Halloween Party at Bran, or even our complete 8-day immersion for the ultimate Halloween adventure.
Book your City Break with Halloween Party at Bran Castle now. Click here to find out more information such as departures and prices.
Private small group tours Romania – Transylvania’s Dark Legend
Besides the regular itineraries, where you will join a larger group of people, we also organize private small group tours Romania. These specific experiences depart with your group only (minimum 2 people required). You will be the only ones in the car / microbus and you will have the experienced guide’s undivided attention.
On the first day of your itinerary, your guide collects you from Cluj-Napoca airport. Transfer to Bistrita, a charming town with a rich history. Follow into the footsteps of Jonathan Harker, the main character from Bram Stoker’s famous novel, “Dracula”, and enjoy a delicious dinner at the Golden Crown Restaurant.
The next morning, travel to Sighisoara Citadel, the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the citadel and visit The Clock Tower History Museum, which you can also climb in order to enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the city from the top. Don’t miss the Torture Room and the Medieval Weapons Collection as well. Accommodate in a 3* hotel located in the heart of the medieval citadel.
From Sighisoara, you will travel to Bran, a picturesque viilage nestled in the Carpathian Mountains. Explore the iconic Bran Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle and then drive to Rasnov Peasant Citadel and discover the rich history of this fortified village.
Day 4 begins with a drive to the Medieval Saxon City of Sibiu. On the way, you can stop in Fagaras and discover Fagaras Citadel, one of our country’s strongest fortifications. In Sibiu, go on a city tour and admire landmarks such as the Bridge of Lies or the Evangelic Church. In the evening, arrive in Sibiel village, accommodate in a welcoming guesthouse and enjoy a delicious home cooked dinner.
On your last day, return to Cluj-Napoca. Enjoy a city tour and admire attractions such as St. Michael’s Church or Unirii Square. Enjoy lunch on personal accounts and then return to the airport to catch your flight back home.
Find out more about this unforgettable private Dracula tour in Transylvania!
Romania Small Group Tours – 2-Day Halloween Tour including our Halloween Party in Sighisoara Citadel
Welcome to an amazing adventure. Choose our small group tours Romania, explore the land of Dracula and have fun at our amazing party. Your experience begins with a scenic transfer from one of the following departure points: Bucharest, Brasov, Bran, Sibiu, or Cluj-Napoca.
You’ll travel by comfortable coach or minibus (or even car, depending on the number of travelers), guided by an experienced tour leader, and make your way to Sighisoara, a charming medieval town known for being the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the ruthless ruler also known as Dracula. Upon arrival, you’ll check in to your 3-star medieval-themed hotel located within the Citadel itself.
After settling in, it’s time for the main event, the reason for your travel to Transylvania – our unforgettable Halloween Party! As night falls, you’ll enter the party venue, where you’ll be greeted by an eerie atmosphere, music, and incredible performances. Highlights of the night include: a breathtaking magic show performed by Eduard and Bianca, followed by Vampiresa Hunting, a professionally choreographed ballet show. The program also includes the Ritual of Killing of The Living Dead, a re-enactment of how our ancestors used to deal with the living dead, known around here as „strigoi”.
Enjoy a delicious buffet dinner and quench your thirst with the open bar available from 8 PM to 1 AM. Throughout the night, the eerie ambiance and lively music will keep the spirit of Halloween alive. Don’t forget to dress in your spookiest attire! The best costume will be awarded a special prize, so get creative!
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel and then board the transport for your return journey. We will drop you off in the same city we picked you up from.
Discover more information about this impressive itinerary including our Halloween Party in Sighisoara Citadel and book now for a night of fun that you won’t forget!
Study Trip – Transylvania’s Undying Legend, Romania Group Travel Tours
Our Romania group tours also include 11-days study trips, designed for students who can embark on an exciting and educational journey through Transylvania, where history, mystery, and adventure await. The tour leader – usually a teacher – receives their ticket free of charge. Your experienced guide collects you from Bucharest airport.
The first highlight in your adventure is Snagov Monastery. Visit the picturesque monastery on Snagov Island, linked to the legend of Vlad the Impaler (Dracula), where his tomb is said to lie. Enjoy a delicious welcome dinner and accommodate in a cozy 3* hotel.
On your second day, travel to Targoviste and exlore the ruins of Vlad Tepes’ old court. After that, travel to Sinaia and visit Peles Castle, one of Romania’s most stunning castles, known for its fairy-tale architecture. Dracula tours are not complete without a tour of the iconic Bran Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle, Transylvania’s symbol. Spend the evening in Brasov, enjoy a special dinner complemented by Dracula’s Wedding, a show set on stage by a professional band of actors.
Other highlights include the Valley of the Citadel Cave or Rasnov Citadel, a medieval fortress, perched on a hilltop offering spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. You will be able to admire the citadel from outside only. Discover the Bat’s Cave, which is home to numerous colonies of bats. For this reason, it is restricted for the public, so we will only be able to visit at the entrance.
Our small group tours Romania itinerary also includes Poenari Citadel. However, at the time of writing, the citadel is closed due to some infrastructure works and we do not know when it will re-open yet. Therefore, we have replaced it with Curtea de Arges Monastery, known for its intricate architecture and historical significance in Romania’s Orthodox tradition. Discover the legend of Master Manole, the builder of the monastery.
Travel to Sibiel and visit the Village Museum. Discover traditional rural houses, old tools, and learn about the lifestyle of the people. Next, arrive in Sighisoara Medieval Citadel. Explore the popular UNESCO World Heritage Site and visit the Clock Tower History Museum and the Medieval Weapons Collection. End you day in Turda; enjoy a delicious vampire dinner and atend the Ritual of Killing of the Living Dead, performed according to old customs and traditions.
The next morning, visit Turda Salt Mine and then travel to Apuseni Mountans and visit a series of breathtaking caves: Bear’s Cave (known for its fossilized remains of prehistoric bears), Meziad Cave (the largest cave in Romania, nearly 5 km long and having several underground levels) or Scarisoara Cave, which hosts one of the largest underground glaciers in the world. Spend the night in Garda de Sus and enjoy a delicious home made dinner.
On day 9, visit Huda lui Papara, one of the most spectacular caves in the Apuseni Mountains and then travel to Bistrita, where you will enjoy dinner at the Golden Crown restaurant just like Bram Stoker’s protagonist, Jonathan Harker.
From Bistrita, travel to Sacel. Visit a local woodcraftsman who will demonstrate the traditional skills of wood carving. You will learn how to carve the perfect wooden stake. A bit late in the schedule, but at least you now have a weapon to keep you safe on your last days in Transylvania.
Travel to Sapanta and visit the Merry Cemetery, a unique place in the world, where tombstones are decorated with bright colors and humorous epitaphs about the lives of the deceased.
Get ready for a spectacular journey. Board a steam train that will take you on an amazing scenic ride through the spectacular Vaser Valley. Admire picturesque forests and rivers on this 50 km stroll and take spectacular photos.
On your last day in Transylvania, enjoy your breakfast and then arrive in Cluj-Napoca, where the itinerary concludes.
Book this itinerary for you and your group of students and explore the land of Dracula together!
3-days Vampire Tour in Transylvania
If you are looking for shorter small group tours in Romania, choose the 3-Days Vampire Tour. It departs on request, for groups of at least 4 travelers. This thrilling 3-day Vampire Tour in Transylvania offers an exciting blend of history, legends, and adventure. Starting from Cluj-Napoca, the tour takes you through some of Transylvania’s most iconic sites associated with the Dracula legend, including Sighisoara Citadel, Corvinesti Castle, and the Turda Salt Mine.
Meet your tour guide at the airport and begin your adventure through the land of Dracula. Travel to Sighisoara Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the real-life inspiration for Dracula. Visit the Clock Tower History Museum, the Medieval Weapons Collection and the Torture Room.
Your next destination is the medieval Saxon City of Sibiu, where you will accommodate in a cozy 4-star hotel. In the morning, depart for Hunedoara. Visit the imposing Corvinesti Castle, one of the most beautiful Gothic castles in Europe. After that, your group tours in Romania take you to Turda. Enjoy a delicious vampire dinner and attend the Ritual of Killing of the Living Dead. Help us defeat the evil ‘strigoi’ and then travel to your accommodation in Cluj-Napoca.
On your last day in Transylvania, visit Turda Salt Mine, one of the most remarkable underground wonders in the world. Explore the deep caverns filled with salt deposits. Learn about the mine’s history, its use in healing treatments, and the local legends that surround it. From here, return to Cluj-Napoca. Enjoy a walking tour of the city and then return to the airport to catch your flight home.
Click here to find out more about this 3-days Vampire tour in Transylvania!
Top 5 Must See cities of Romania
Bucharest
The modern city is characterized by a number of squares from which streets and boulevards radiate. The two chief streets, running roughly parallel through the centre of the city, are Calea Victoriei and Bulevardul Magheru. Bulevardul Unirii, formerly called, under communism, the “Boulevard of the Victory of Socialism,” was vastly expanded in the 1980s under the dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu and was bordered by such buildings as the palatial marble House of the People (Casa Poporului, now the Palace of the Parliament). About 25,000 acres (10,000 hectares) of old Bucharest were razed to make room for the new palace and grand boulevard.
Learn more: https://www.britannica.com/place/Bucharest
What to do in Bucharest
- Tour of the House of Parliament – 2nd largest administrative building in the world.
- Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum -a large open air village with houses and traditional local culture.
- Piata Unirii fountains – a huge complex of fountains with a multimedia show of lights and music synchronized with the fountain display on weekend evenings
- Activities in Bucharest https://experiente-cadou.com/en/87-bucuresti-gift–ideas
Brasov
Fringed by the peaks of the Southern Carpathian Mountains and resplendent with gothic, baroque and renaissance architecture, Brasov is one of the most beautiful and visited places in Romania.
Brasov was founded, in 1211, by the Teutonic Knights, on an ancient Dacian site. In the 13th century Brasov was settled by the Saxons and shortly became one of Transylvania’s seven walled citadels Siebenburgen.
The location of Brasov, at the intersection of trade routes linking the Ottoman Empire and western Europe, together with friendly tax regime, allowed Saxon merchants to obtain considerable wealth and exert strong political influence in the region. This was also reflected in the city’s name, Kronstadt (German) or Corona (Latin), meaning the Crown City. Learn more:
https://www.romaniatourism.com/brasov.html
What to do in Brasov
You can fly over Dracula’s Castle with an airplane, admire the best of Carpathian mountains scenery from a helicopter tour, enjoy an offroad experience and more.
https://experiente-cadou.com/en/103-brasov-gift-ideas
Sibiu
Sibiu was first mentioned in documents around 1191 AD. The fortified city was founded by German settlers known as ‘Saxons’. Currently, Sibiu is one of Romania’s most beautiful cities and contains the largest concentration of tourist attractions in our country. Sections of the medieval wall still exist and can be admired in the historic area.
The Medieval Saxon City of Sibiu served as the European Cultural Capital in 2007.
What to do in Sibiu
- If you go on a walk in Sibiu, don’t miss the Great Square and the Little Square.
- Visit the Council Tower – the former guard tower for the second row of fortified walls served as a grain storehouse, a temporary prison and even a museum of botany. If you get to the top, you can find an observation deck which allows a stunning bird’s eye view of Sibiu old Town and Fagaras Mountains in the distance.
- Discover Brukenthal Palace – the home of Brukenthal Museum, one of the finest art museums in Romania
- Cross the Bridge of Lies – if you have the courage; according to the legend, the bridge will collapse if you tell a lie while you’re on it
- Discover the experiences our partners can provide in Sibiu
Cluj-Napoca
The most popular Transylvanian city, Cluj-Napoca is blending old, historical buildings with new architecture. The city was first documented in 1173, but its roots actually lie in the Roman settlement of Napoca dating back in the 2nd century.
Today, Cluj-Napoca is one of the largest student centers in our country, hosting 7 state and 3 private universities – this also means the city has a vibrant cultural scene. You can admire impressive landmarks such as St. Michael’s Church or the Tailors’ Bastion. If you want to admire an impressive view of the city, you should go to the Fortress Hill (“Dealul Cetatuia”).
More information on https://www.romaniatourism.com/cluj-napoca.html
What to do in Cluj-Napoca
- Walking tour in the city center. Discover Union Square, which is home to the most popular attraction in the city: St. Michael’s Church, a beautiful Gothic monument
- Visit one of the impressive museums located throughout the city such as the ‘Cluj National Art Museum’, which is hosted by Banffy Palace, the former residence of Austro-Hungarian governors, or the ‘Pharmacy History Collection’, which can be found in ‘Casa Hintz’, the building where the city’s first pharmacy was opened in 1573
- Go to a performance at the National Opera or enjoy a play at ‘Lucian Blaga National Theatre
- Stroll around Cluj-Napoca Central Park or visit the ‘Alexandru Borza’ Botanical Garden, home to around 10.000 plant species
Find out what unforgettable experiences you can enjoy in Cluj-Napoca!
Sighisoara
The Medieval Citadel of Sighisoara is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It was built by the Saxons in the 12th century. Nowadays, you can still admire the perfectly intact citadel, including nine towers, along with cobbled streets and impressive old houses and churches. Sighisoara is also popular for being the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the ruthless ruler also known as Dracula. In fact, nowadays, you can visit Casa Vlad Dracul restaurant and enjoy a meal on the place where Dracula’s birth house used to stand.
What to do in Sighisoara
- Walk around the Citadel Square, admire the impressive old buildings and buy local handmade souvenirs
- Visit the Clock Tower History Museum. Besides admiring the exhibits, you can climb to the top of the tower and admire the old citadel from a unique perspective
- Discover impressive landmarks such as the Covered Stairs, the Church on the Hill, the Torture Room or the Medieval Weapons Collection
More information: https://www.romaniatourism.com/sighisoara.html
Discover experiences you can enjoy while visiting Sighisoara Medieval Citadel!
Hotels used in small group tours of Romania
Casa Wagner, Sighisoara
Casa Wagner Sighișoara is located in the place with the highest architectural load in Sighișoara, in the Citadel Square, ie in the Central Square of Sighișoara. In addition to the historical sights, Casa Wagner gives you access, as in a branch, to all leisure options: the Clock Tower, the city walls and the cathedrals are within walking distance, and on the streets around the house you will find cafes and bars.
Review about Casa Wagner Hotel Sighisoara
Casa Wagner has a great location, right in the central plaza. The staff are very friendly, respectful and made our entire stay comfortable. I loved the style of the hotel. It’s very antique. The rooms are big.
Hotel Casa Wagner is in a historic building within the Sighisoara castle walls, facing the central plaza, and close to popular sights such as the clock tower, church and museums. I stayed with a group of friends. My room had twin beds, wardrobe, telephone, flat screen TV, small fridge, and tiled bathroom with large tub, toilet and sink. The beds were comfortable, but unfortunately my sleep was interrupted by a loud dog barking at 4:30am outside my window. Hotel staff was welcoming and helpful. The breakfast buffet had lots of choices, featuring scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, 3 types of cereal, several types of luncheon meats, sausages, cheese, tomatoes, breads, pastries, juice, coffee and tea
Hanul Bran
Located within walking distance from the iconic Bran Castle, Hanul Bran is the best place to stay at if you attend the unforgettable Halloween Party at Dracula’s Castle. You can admire amazing landscapes from your window and you can enjoy a delicious traditional dinner at the hotel’s restaurant.
Review about Hanul Bran Hotel
Unbeatable location. We had a room with a view on the castle and the mountains. It’s also in walking distance of the castle. Room & bathroom were clean. Friendly reception staff. Good breakfast with decent variety. Comfy beds. Free parking in front of the hotel. However, there is no AC and the balcony could be a bit cleaner.
Moxa Boutique Hotel
A cozy 4* hotel, located in the heart of Bucharest, close to the city center, this is the starting point of small group tours to Romania. Moxa Boutique Hotel si conveniently located close to important attractions in Bucharest such as the Natural History Museum or the National Art Museum. You can also get to the Palace of the Parliament easily – it’s just 3 km away and, considering the traffic in Bucharest, it might be faster to walk there.
Guest review about Moxa Boutique Hotel
From the moment we stepped inside this hotel, we felt like we had entered a real museum! The neoclassical rooms are masterpieces of design, filled with stunning details that transport you to another era, with luxurious furnishings and an atmosphere of pure elegance.
The food was outstanding – every meal was a gastronomic experience, with flavors that would impress even the most demanding palates. The service was impeccable, with staff always eager to assist and ensure our comfort.
Another huge advantage is the easy parking, making our stay even more convenient. Plus, the hotel’s location is perfect – we were within walking distance of all major attractions, without any hassle in getting around.
Overall, an experience beyond expectations! We will definitely be coming back!
Golden Crown Hotel, Bistrita
The ‘Golden Crown Hotel’ should be familiar to anyone who read Bram Stoker’s ‘Dracula’. You get to spend a night in the same hotel Jonathan Harker slept at in the novel. Golden Crown Hotel is located close to the historic center of Bistrita, so it will be easy for guests to reach the most important objectives in the city.
Review about Golden Crown Hotel
Hotel located in the city centre, close to the main square which is reachable by foot. The staff was friendly and kind; we even received an upgrade for the room which was really nice. The hotel is clean and I was glad that the heat was turned on, as outside there were 5 degrees during the night. 🙂
Valea Cu Pesti Hotel, Arefu
“Valea cu Pesti” (“Valley with Fish” in English) is located at an altitude of 875 m (about 2870 ft), near lake Vidracu, about 7 km away from Vidraru Dam and 30 minutes away from Balea Lac. You can find this hotel along Transfagarasan, a unique road crossing the Carpathian Mountains. About 12 km from “Valea cu Pesti”, you can find the iconic Poienari Citadel, Vlad the Impaler’s mountain refuge.
Review about Valea cu Pesti hotel:
Location of the hotel is amazing. We had an exciting view from our room to Vidraru lake.
The room itself was good, except one really small problem with the shower. It’s very silent there at night, despite the road is quite close to hotel.
The breakfast was very good. We also had a dinner in the hotel’s restaurant – all the dishes and service were good, we’re completely satisfied. The only thing – it’s better to speak Romanian to be well understood. 🙂
How much our small group tours to Romania cost?
Before booking our group tours in Romania, you need to consider several factors.
First of all, you need to determine how much time you are able to spend in Transylvania. Based on this information, you can choose between a Short Break or our Awarded 7 or 8 Days Tours. Depending on when you can depart, you can go on a fun Vampire Tour (these are running throughout the year) or on one of our unforgettable Halloween itineraries, which depart on set dates around this holiday. Our catalog also includes private tours, which depart on customer request as long as the minimum required number of travelers is gathered (usually either 2 or 4).
Some of our itineraries include the option to choose between 3 or 4* accommodation. The 7-Days Vampire or 8-Days Halloween tours include 3* accommodation on some days and 4* accommodation on others. Regardless, the hotels we are working with provide the best possible services for our travelers.
Last, but not least, probably the most important aspect you need to consider – the one which influences all the others – is the price. You need to know how much you are going to have to spend in order to determine which tour you can afford. The costs for each itinerary are displayed on their product pages, so make sure you check them out and choose the departure date and/or accommodation type in order to get the correct quote.
Costs for 10-Days and 11-Days Romania group travel tours
The longest trips in our catalog are, without a doubt, the 11-days Study Trips, intended for groups of students accompanied by a tour leader. Since these itineraries are booked for groups of at least 10 people, the tour leader – usually a teacher who supervises the students – travels free of charge.
We organize two types of Study Trips: ‘Transylvania’s Undying Legend’, which focuses more on local history and folklore, costs €1287 / person with double or twin accommodation or €1576 with single accommodation. Meanwhile, ‘Dracula tours for Schools’, focusing more on the myths and legends surrounding the ruthless ruler, can be booked for €1557 or €1837 for single rooms.
We also organize a 10-days Halloween Tour, departing from Budapest. It includes our exciting Halloween itinerary with all the objectives available on our Awarded 8-days tour and 3 fun parties, all for €2664 / person or €2999 / person for single room accommodation.
Awarded 8-Days Halloween Tour and 7-Days Vampire itinerary costs
Our Awarded 8-Days Halloween Tour including three amazing parties: in Sighisoara, Bran Castle and at a third venue to be revealed soon, can be booked for €1699 or €1799 for single rooms. Alternatively, we organize a private version of this tour, which you can book if you want your group to travel separately from the larger one. It costs €2419 or €2549 for single travelers.
Throughout the year, we organize the 7-Days Vampire itinerary. It departs weekly and it costs €1299 or €1549 for single travelers.
Costs for 3-Days small group tours to Romania
Our 3-Days short breaks are designed to offer you a glimpse of the amazing land of Dracula and to help you decide whether you want to return on a longer trip. Our 3-Days Halloween short break departing from Bucharest, Sighisoara or Brasov costs €799 or €899 for single rooms. If you depart from Cluj, the price is €699 or €799 for single rooms.
Meanwhile, the 3-Days Vampire itinerary departs throughout the year, on customer request, for groups of minimum 2 persons. The costs are €569 or €666 for single rooms.
1 and 2-Days Halloween Tours and City Breaks prices
Our catalog includes 1-Day City Breaks and 2-Days Short Breaks designed to accommodate people who are only interested in a fun Halloween Party.
- The 1-Day City Break with Halloween Party in Sighisoara Citadel includes accommodation and access to the best party in Transylvania. It costs €349 or €369 for a single room.
- The 1-Day itinerary including the Halloween Party at Bran Castle costs €379 or €399 for a single room.
- Our 2-Days tour with Halloween Party in Sighisoara includes transfers from Bucharest, Sibiu, Cluj or Brasov, accommodation in a 3* medieval hotel and our amazing Halloween Party, all for €499 or €549 for single rooms.
- At the same time, the 2-Days itinerary with Halloween Party at Bran Castle includes transfer from Bucharest, accommodation and the popular event taking place on the grounds of the castle. The price is €399 or €429 for a single room.
Food costs in Romania
While we usually include breakfasts and dinners in our tours, you might want to enjoy lunch on your own account or to serve a different meal than the one included on the arranged menu. In this case, you should know that travelers spend – on average – 214 lei / day for food in Romania. Of course, this price is based on three meals/day, which is not case if you take advantage of the breakfasts and dinners already included in the tour price. Here’s what Budget Your Trip has to say about food costs in Romania:
While restaurant and meal prices in Romania can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Romania is $44 (lei214) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
Budget Your Trip
Travel Costs in Romania
Our tours include transfers between the attractions you will visit. Depending on the size of your group, you will travel in a car, minibus or even in a coach. If you decide to wander off on your own in the cities we are visiting or if you plan on extending your stay and traveling by yourself, you should consider the following:
- Bus rides cost less than taking a taxi, but there might not be a station close to your destination and the bus will most likely be very crowded. Beware of pickpockets, as they like to operate in crowded places where they can easily disappear
- Taxis are more expensive than buses, but offer more comfort and they take you to your exact destination. While in Romania, make sure you avoid shady drivers. A few examples of tactics used by taxi drivers to scam you include circling you around in order to increase the sum on the meter or negotiating a sum before the ride and asking you to let them keep the meter off. If you accept such an offer, you will end up paying a lot more than the ride is actually worth
- Ridesharing services such as Uber or Taxify are safer when it comes to scammers since you pay for the ride in advance, on the app, and the driver has no control over the charged amount
Budget Your Trip reveals that travelers spend about $20 (lei99) on local transportation.
Is it safe to visit Romania?
There are several indexes which prove that Romania is a generally safe country. For instance, the GTD (Global Terrorist Database), which ranks countries based on the level of terrorist activity, places us on 138/163 countries, which means that no terrorist attacks have occurred here.
The GPI (Global Peace Index), which ranks countries based on militarization, society and security and domestic and interest conflict, places Romania on position 36/163.
Statistics basically show us that crime rate in Romania is very low. In fact, it’s lower than the European average. However, the corruption is still relatively high. You may find yourself in a situation where authorities offer you a ‘mutually beneficial’ solution. Their proposal is – most likely – illegal and can cause trouble for you in the long run. You should always refuse such solutions and seek legal justification.
Need to Know before traveling to Romania
- Confirm your passport is valid for 6 months from when you think your trip will end. Don’t get stranded.
- Get comprehensive travel insurance to cover you and your gear. Get insurance that’s right for you and covers your activities in the places you’ll go. Remember, regardless of how healthy and fit you are, if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel.
- Consider your physical and mental health. Get advice from your doctor if you’re unsure.
- See your doctor or travel clinic 8 weeks before you go for a basic health check
- Check if your medication is legal and available in the places you’re going. Take enough of your prescribed medicines to last the whole trip. Carry copies of your prescription and a letter from your doctor.
- Tell your bank you’re travelling and check if your cards will work. Have several payment options.
Driving
If you book one of our itineraries, we will provide transfer to each objective included. This means that you don’t have to drive yourself. However, if you decide to extend your stay or travel outside the planned itinerary, the best course of action is to rent a car.
While driving in Romania, pay attention to your surroundings. Inside cities, many drivers break the law (speeding, crossing red lights or turning on a continuous line). Put safety first and avoid being involved in a traffic incident.
Another problem you may encounter (in big cities mostly) is the lack of free parking spots. You should plan ahead, discover parking lots located in the vicinity of your destination and leave the car there.
Outside cities – especially around villages – you might encounter carts and animals on the road. Furthermore, since there aren’t many highways in Romania, National Roads can get quite crowded.
Pickpocketing
Since crime rate is low in Romania, muggings are not a common occurrence. However, pickpockets are active and have all kinds of creative methods to steal your belongings. They operate mostly in crowded places, such as buses or the subway. A skilled pickpocket usually cuts your purse/bag open and disappears with its contents before you can realize what happened. To avoid this, you should always keep your belongings within eyesight. If it’s possible, leave your most valuable items in the hotel safe and carry only the essentials on you.
According to Romanian laws:
- Always carry photo ID – you should keep the original passport or ID card somewhere safe and carry photocopies with you
- You are prohibited from taking photos of airports, military sites or other secure locations (this includes drones – be careful, as you might have a non-pleasant surprise if you accidentally fly a drone in military airspace)
- Penalties for drug offences are severe. Depending on the seriousness of the crime, you can face up to 20 years in jail. Authorities are focusing more on finding the dealers rather than the users, but it’s always best to avoid getting in trouble
Travel Insurance
When going abroad, you should always have travel insurance. It will help you a lot in case of an unexpected situation. Travel Insurance can save you and your family from financial problems. If you’re still not convinced, you should know that one of the things covered by such an insurance is healthcare.
Medical services are quite expensive outside your own country and you most likely won’t receive free care or subsidized costs. If you have travel insurance, though, your insurer will cover eventual costs.
What are small group tours?
Organized tours vs independent traveler
Any organized group tours offer an efficient itinerary, expert guides and the opportunity to get to know fellow travelers.
Having someone else take care of the logistics allows you to immerse yourself in the travel experience fully.
Part of the fun of group travel is the chance to get to know people from around the world.
One of the best part of travel with a group is the dedicated guide who remains with you throughout the trip, showing you their country, acting as translator and managing all the logistics. In Transylvania Live’s tours all the guides are from the Romania, which gives you the unique opportunity to learn about the culture, history and customs from a local. Beware: many tour companies use guides from a western country. Be sure to ask about this, when you book an organized tour so you know what to expect.
How many people travel together is a small group tour
Learn about the Transylvania and Romania alongside 10–22 travelers.
You’ll get an in-depth look at Transylvania while making a positive impact on it.
Small groups vs regular groups
Small groups tend to move around faster and your guide is not trying to cater to as many persons.
If small means van type vs large bus type then vans can get places quicker and usually close to attractions.
The smaller size allows for staying at more interesting accommodation types, rather than huge hotels, and you will be able to get to know everyone in the group.
vs
If you are a very social then large groups could be fun and you and pick and choose who you want to associate with. Coach tours can carry up to 50 people
Benefits of small group tour
Fewer guests per guide gives you more and better-quality interaction with your guide. That means more opportunities to take advantage of their expertise
You’ll a more authentic experience and contribute more to the local economy, all while having a less negative impact on the local environment.
On a small group tour, you feel known, and you are known. People look out for you and notice when you’re not there, just as you have their backs. You are safer.
Evolution of tourism in Romania
The number of international arrivals in tourist accommodations in Romania peaked in 2018 at 2.79 million people. Romanian tourism industry is recovering, after COVID outbreak having over 1.8 million foreign tourists in 2024, as of September.
