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Home > 10 Unforgettable Day Trips From Bucharest, Romania

10 Unforgettable Day Trips From Bucharest, Romania

Written by our local expert Anca-Gabi Cucos

Romanian local, Anca-Gabi is a freelance writer who loves to travel and share her stories about Romania with the world.

Here are 11 of the best day trips from Bucharest to take on your trip to Romania. We have ideas from epic road trips and castles of Transylvania to ancient sites and spots for nature lovers.

Being Romania’s capital and main entrance gate to the country, Bucharest is often the main place visitors reach when visiting Romania . The city, which offers many exciting places to visit and things to do, is also a great place to stay when exploring nearby areas.

Of course, the best way to do so is by embarking on one of the many day trips from Bucharest available. Whether joining an organized tour or planning the trip yourself, these are some of the most exciting day trips from Bucharest that you can enjoy in Romania.

You may want to consider a guided tour from Bucharest as some of the day trips are difficult to reach without a car. Plus, taking a guided tour can give you more time to explore so you can rest on the journey back without having to navigate back to Bucharest .

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Getting Around In Romania

Places are easy to get to by public transport, and it is a cheap and efficient way to discover the areas not too far from Bucharest . The bus can be a good and reasonably inexpensive way to move around the country and take short journeys from and to Bucharest . An alternative to buses is maxi taxis (or minibusses), which are comfortable and convenient but often have reduced space for luggage.

Train travel is an excellent alternative to buses. Train fares are very affordable and can be a great way to move around for budget travelers. Although the national railway service is not among the most reliable in Europe, some scenic train routes are worth the experience, for instance, in Transylvania .

Cost of public transport: Generally, prices in Romania are pretty on the lower side when it comes to public transportation.

If traveling in a large group, it is always wise to compare costs. Sometimes renting a car can be more convenient than paying for tickets for the whole family. On the other hand, a car will offer the opportunity to plan flexible itineraries with more independence, allowing you to handle your schedule as you please.

Renting a car: The best fares for car rental are often found online; however, if you rent a car once in Bucharest, prices start from 30-40 euros per day. Depending on the size and model of the vehicle.

Remember that the longer the rental period is, the lower the fee will result. Main roads are in reasonably good condition, while secondary roads conditions can vary, be careful and avoid driving at night in unfamiliar areas.

Booking a tour: Those who are not interested in driving and do not want to use public transport can also join an organized tour to enjoy some of these trips. They offer great value for money, sometimes even combining more destinations in just one day trip from Bucharest.

They can often be booked online, and some even offer to pick up and drop off, so you won’t need to deal with the hassle of moving around. Booking a tour online enhances your chances of finding better fees and spots in the most popular excursions.

Let’s take a look at the best day trips from Bucharest.

1. Day Trip To The Danube Delta From Bucharest

Although not the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about Romania , the Danube is also part of the Romanian landscape, the country home to the river’s impressive delta and wetland habitat.

One of the most popular ways to see the best of the delta area is to see it on a boat. The trip is perfect for those who love to explore natural landscapes, admire the flora and fauna of the region, and learn about wildlife diversity. A UNESCO World Heritage Site , this place finds refuge in endless varieties of birds and deer, wild horses, foxes, turtles, and wolves, among others.

The Danube Delta is located in Tulcea, about 4 hours from Bucharest. You can quickly get there with an organized tour from Bucharest that includes a boat ride in the Natural Reserve.

2. Day Trip To Sibiu

Considered one of the most charming cities in Romania , Sibiu is a former European Cultural Capital and one of those places you cannot skip during your Romanian adventure. Although a trip to Sibiu can be long and tiring, and maybe for many, not close enough to be a contender for their Bucharest day trips , if you can deal with the travel time, the experience is worth the long travel hours.

This important city is located in Transylvania and offers enchanting places to visit , especially in the old town where it is possible to discover ancient Saxon palaces, impressive staircases, and the magnificent Bridge of Lies. One thing not to miss in Sibiu is the unique Lutheran Cathedral with its high tower, from where you can enjoy beautiful panoramic views of the town.

More things to do include a visit to the protected village of Sibiel and its museum of glass icons. Since a trip to Sibiu can take almost a whole day, bus travel is not recommended; we suggest you drive or — even better — book a private tour like this one that provides access to different buildings and experiences, including the ones in Sibiel.

Find Sibiu tour options here.

Brands we use and trust, 3. day trip from bucharest to bran castle.

It is impossible to visit Romania and not visit the best-known attraction in the country, Bran Castle . Since this castle resembles the castle described by Bram Stoker in his masterpiece, the castle is known everywhere as Dracula’s Castle.

This is why the beautiful castle of Bran is one of the most popular day tours from Bucharest and among the most  visited places in the country.

And even if you have a hard time believing that this was where Vlad the Impaler once dwelled, the castle is so beautiful and imposing that a visit should be included in your Romanian itinerary.

A trip from Bucharest to visit Bran Castle can last from 4 to a bit under 5 hours if you use public transport; therefore, we recommend driving or, again, choosing one of the several tours available; this way, you will also be able to discover other nearby attractions which you would otherwise miss if traveling on your own. You can read more by  checking the official Bran Castle site here .

For instance, this tour includes stops in Peleș Castle  and Brasov and a skip-the-line entrance ticket. You can save a few euros and book this regular tour , which visits the same places but has no skip-the-line alternative. You will be picked up from your hotel.

Find Bran Castle tour options here.

4. bucharest to brasov day trip.

Although this is a great day trip to combine with a tour to Bran Castle, visiting Brasov alone is one of the best day trips from Bucharest that you can imagine.

Brasov is one of the most interesting cities in Transylvania , featuring an eclectic urban landscape made of baroque buildings, medieval walls, and the imposing Gothic Black Church. This Brasov landmark is a 500-year-old church and the largest Gothic church in Transylvania , which took about a hundred years to be built, from 1380 to 1477.

Brasov is located at the foot of the Carpathian Mountains, and this is one of those trips we recommend taking the train. The ride is about 3 hours and transports you on a magical journey that takes you through the stunning landscape of Transylvania.

Find Brasov day trips here.

5. bucharest to rasnov citadel.

Still did not have enough of Transylvania? Then check out this fantastic day trip that takes you from Bucharest to Rasnov. Once the modern city of Rasnov is left below, visitors are greeted by the imposing citadel of Rasnov, located on top of the hill and proudly dominating the landscape.

If you’ve already seen some of the most famous castles in Romania , this citadel will undoubtedly surprise you… and the first word that can come to your mind to describe it will probably be “different.”

Surrounded by fortified walls, you will find a picturesque small city that seems miles away from the surrounding landscape, both in style and atmosphere. The fortress was built in the so-called Fliehburg style and was part of a defensive system made of those Transylvanian villages that used to undergo foreign invasions.

A trip from Bucharest to Rasnov from Bucharest can take up to 5 hours if using public transport (either bus or train; the travel times are more or less the same). Check out a guided tour with other stops in the area like this one , including Bran Castle and even Brasov, which can be a better alternative.

6. Day Trip To Constanta

If castles, gothic sites, and medieval citadels are not your thing, then choose a completely different getaway from the capital. A day trip to the coast of the Black Sea can be the right alternative for you.

Constanta is the oldest town attested on the Romanian territory. During a visit to this coastal town , there are a few sites that you should check out to understand the different aspects of the local idiosyncrasy.

Start by heading to the History and Archaeology Museum to glimpse the Greek and Roman past of the area; here, it is also possible to check out the complex of Roman mosaics. In the Old Town, you can see the important Orthodox Cathedral and the Great Mosque of Constanta (also known as Carol I Mosque).

For a more modern site, approach the waterfront of Constanta and discover the once glamorous city Casino, a perfect example of Art Nouveau that remains old and abandoned but nothing short of impressive and mysterious.

The best way to reach Constanta is either by train (about 2 hours) or bus (a bit more than 3 hours). If you prefer the comfort of a hotel pick up and drop off, as well as professional explanations by a licensed tour guide, check out this conveniently organized visit from Bucharest.

7. Bucharest To Piatra Craiului National Park

If you are more into nature than monuments, old towns, and sculptures, don’t miss a visit to Piatra Craiului National Park to look at the fantastic nature of Romania .

The perfect destination to go hiking, this is a great outdoor alternative to understand how diverse and unique the Romanian geography is, featuring woods, high mountains, deep gorges, and crystal clear glacial lakes.

If visiting with the family, there are hiking alternatives for children, including horse riding. For adrenaline junkies instead, rock climbing is also a possibility (only recommended in summertime).

The park is located around 4 hours from Bucharest , about 170 kilometers from the capital. The most comfortable way to visit is by car (or taxi), although there are also very convenient multi-day trip tours like this one . They are organized and allow you to see other areas as well.

8. Day Trip To Slanic Prahova Salt Mines

How would you fancy traveling 208 meters underground to explore these unique salt mines surrounded by a healing atmosphere of pure air? I bet you’d love this day trip from Bucharest experience!

In the area, it is possible to check out the Salt Museum and this all-season spa resort known for its curative mineral waters and its spectacular Salt Mine, one of the biggest in Europe.

The breathtaking salt mine hall stands 70 meters high. An imposing circuit runs around the pillar that supports the mine. Inside the mine, you can discover a history museum, a soccer field, and a playground for kids. A guided tour like this one is ideal for checking the entire area.

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9. Bucharest To Transfagarasan Highway

We have already discussed this popular Romanian attraction; however, it remains one of the most fascinating day trips from Bucharest that you can imagine. Only completely open to the public during summer, this fantastic engineering work is a unique scenic drive that goes through and over the Fagaras Mountains.

The most beautiful portion of the road starts near Lake Balea, where the road takes a serpentine shape down the valley. This trip is a joy for those who love to drive unique roads worldwide; the journey is about 3 hours or a bit more if you frequently stop for photography, which — trust us — you will! However, it is also possible to be driven along this highway.

10. Day Trip From Bucharest To Bulgaria

Wouldn’t it be great if you could visit two countries for the price of one? Well, on this day trip from Bucharest, you actually can. You’ll find that getting from Bucharest to Bulgaria is not far and is doable as a day trip. Therefore, you can take advantage of the many organized tours that take you across the border to discover the wonders of the neighboring country/

The best places to visit during your stay in Bucharest are:

From Bucharest to Veliko Tarnovo: This day trip lets you check one of the most picturesque Bulgarian towns, once the country’s medieval capital, and other nearby towns. Roam the ground and admire the old fortress before stopping for a Bulgarian lunch. 

From Bucharest to Medieval Bulgaria, including the UNESCO Ivanovo Rock Churches: Another incredible private day trip to Bulgaria is this one ; it takes you to see the best of Bulgaria in one day. Tour the UNESCO Ivanovo Rock Churches , the twelfth-century Tsarevets Fortress, and the village of Arbanassi.

• Romanian Food
• What To See When You Visit Romania
• Bucharest Tours
• Things To Do In Brasov, Transylvania
• Souvenirs To Bring Home From Romania
• Weekend Itinerary In Oradea
• Traveling As A Vegan In Romania
• Best Time To Visit Romania
• How To Travel From Brasov To Bucharest

Thank you for this informative article. Makes me want to visit Bucharest the soonest. Keep this up!

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Home » Travel Guides » Romania » 15 Best Day Trips from Bucharest

15 Best Day Trips from Bucharest

Romania’s capital and largest city is a lively and entertaining place to visit, with a vibrant culture that’s been on the rise ever since the country’s communist dictatorship fell from power.

There’s much to do and much to see in Bucharest, but once you have explored the streets and museums and hung out in the great cafes and restaurants, you may want to head further afield, and the city is perfectly situated to act as the gateway to the rest of Romania.

From Bucharest, you can easily head out into the countryside, escape the city in the beautiful Piatra Craiului Mountains which are home to some of Europe’s last surviving brown bears, while exploring the history of Transylvania, where legends of Dracula were born in the medieval era.

The warm climes of the Black Sea are never far away, while northern Bulgaria is just waiting to be explored.

Here are the best day trips from Bucharest.

1. Bran Castle

Bran Castle is a spectacular, gothic masterpiece that rises from the hills in the heartland of Transylvania.

This is the stuff of legends, so much so that over the years its unique design and architecture have become undeniably associated with Bram Stoker’s Dracula and the towering turrets and haunting atmosphere have been said by many to be the inspiration for Dracula’s castle in the novel.

This is nothing but a legend, as there is no evidence for this, but it hasn’t stopped the locals from embellishing the idea to draw in more tourists.

Regardless of the truth, though, Bran Castle makes for a great day trip from Bucharest, as it’s surrounded by rolling green hills and is found in a dramatic location.

Take a tour of the castle to find out more about the myths and legends, and perhaps to uncover a semblance of truth amongst the mystery too.

Recommended tour : Dracula’s Castle Full-Day Tour from Bucharest

Found close to Bran Castle, and around a two-hour drive from Bucharest, the city of Brasov is Transylvania at its finest.

It’s in a glorious setting, with the towering Carpathian Mountains surrounding the city, and spectacular countryside to be found everywhere.

Its location at the crossroads of European and Eastern trade routes has given the city its distinctive character over the centuries, and you can see influences here from as far afield as Germany and Turkey, and much further beyond too.

Explore the historic streets, churches and old fortifications, before taking a hike to the top of the nearby Tampa Mountain for an all-encompassing view of Brasov.

Available tour : Bucharest: 12-Hour Tour of Brasov and Dracula’s Castle

3. Piatra Craiului Mountains

The beautiful Piatra Craiului Mountains form part of the larger Southern Carpathian Range and make for an excellent outdoor adventure from Bucharest.

The area is protected as a national park, and there are many wonderful walking trails of varying difficulties that meander through the foothills and along the ridges.

The area is home to some of Europe’s rare brown bears, and in the town of Zarnesti, you can even visit the Liberty Bear Sanctuary, an establishment that for two decades has been working tirelessly to help protect the bears and to rehabilitate those that are found injured.

You can visit the sanctuary to learn more about the bears and the work being done to save them.

4. Peles Castle

Found to the north of Bucharest, Peles Castle is located in the beautiful surrounds of the Carpathians, and its slender and elegant renaissance style architecture is a treat for the eyes.

The castle dates back to the mid 19th century when Romanian Royalty decided that this spectacular, mountainous area was perfect for an estate and hunting lodge, where they could spend the summer in the countryside away from the city.

It’s more of a grand mansion than a castle as such, but that just makes it all the more graceful.

Recommended combo tour : Peles & Bran Small Group: 2 Transylvanian Castles in 1 Day

5. Rasnov Citadel

Rasnov Citadel is found close to Brasov and was constructed as the first line of protection for Transylvanians.

It occupies an incredibly dramatic location, overseeing a pass from its high position on a clifftop.

The citadel dates back to medieval times and has seen its share of warfare and invasions over the centuries.

Things are much more peaceful now of course, and it makes for an excellent day trip, if only for its photogenic qualities.

6. Slanic Salt Mine

The Slanic Salt Mine makes for an unusual, underground excursion from Bucharest.

Found in the town of Slanic an hour north of the capital, the cavernous chambers below ground that have been hollowed out by workers over the decades form a surreal network of almost art-like chambers that tower high above you.

The regulated air below the surface is said by locals to be good for your health, and many therapeutic sessions are bizarrely held underground here.

It’s a strange place to explore, but an infinitely interesting day trip.

Suggested tour : Slanic Salt Mines and Wine Tasting Tour

7. Prahova Valley

The Prahova Valley is the location of the town of Slanic, and it’s one of the most scenic regions within an easy drive of Bucharest.

The spectacular Prahova River makes its way through the Carpathian Mountains, creating a wide valley that is becoming somewhat of a tourist sensation.

It’s the perfect location for outdoor activities, and there are some really stunning hiking trails through the valley and into the surrounding mountains.

A visit to the small village of Snagov makes for an easy day trip from Bucharest, as it’s just 20 miles away from the city centre, and there is much here to keep you occupied for hours.

The community is found on the banks of the rippling and serene Lake Snagov, a peaceful place encircled by green scenery.

On the lake itself can be found the enchanting Snagov Monastery, floating on a verdant island.

Locals claim that the monastery is, in fact, the final resting place of the legendary historical character and bloodthirsty conqueror, Vlad the Impaler, the real-life ruler who inspired the fictional Dracula.

This legend, however, may just be that, a legend, but it’s still an incredible place to explore.

Suggested tour : Full-Day Private Tour w/ Mogosoaia & Snagov

9. Mogosoaia Palace

Visiting the Mogosoaia Palace is an equally easy and relaxed day trip, as this 17th-century mansion is found just a short journey outside of Bucharest.

The palace has variously served as an inn, a royal home and now a museum, as its previous owners all seem to have befallen various unwelcome fates.

The grounds around the Mogosoaia Palace are stunning, tranquil and a very welcome escape from the streets of nearby Bucharest.

10. Poenari Castle

The Poenari Castle dates back to the 13th century when it was constructed to solidify local rule in the Carpathians.

By the 15th century, however, this castle was already being abandoned, before the infamous Vlad the Impaler came along and decided to rebuild the crumbling fortifications to defend his lands.

Locals will say that it is this castle, in fact, that should be known as Dracula’s Castle, because Vlad, the character’s inspiration, has more connection to Poenari Castle than to Bran Castle.

Poenari Castle was ruined in a landslide in the 19th century, and once again fell into abandonment.

Here you will find none of the glorious architecture of Romania’s many better-known castles, but you will find dramatic ruins that can only be reached after climbing up over a thousand steps from the road below.

11. Craiova

Craiova makes for a long day trip from Bucharest, but a visit to this city to the west of the capital is very much worth it, to enjoy the quiet streets of this low-key Romanian city.

There is a fine selection of museums and galleries, reflecting Craiova’s long position as a university city.

There are some beautiful parks and green spaces, and it’s a wonderful place to simply stroll and wind down, as compared to Bucharest, not a lot happens in laid-back Craiova.

12. Constanta

Constanta is Bucharest’s getaway on the Black Sea.

Found overlooking beaches and with its fair share of resorts, restaurants and bars, this is one of the most popular destinations to visit in the country during the summer.

Any time of year though, the city too is a great place to explore, with a beautiful promenade, some interesting museums and an often overlooked history that makes this one of the oldest cities in Romania.

Ensure you visit the old casino, a magnificent piece of architecture that overlooks the waterfront and that has become something of a photographic sensation in recent years.

13. Mangalia

Mangalia is Romania’s other popular Black Sea city, found along the coast to the south of Constanta.

Mangalia is a very popular place in summer, as the area has a huge range of resorts overlooking the beaches, and there is a vibrant nightlife to be found across the waterfront.

14. Veliko Tarnovo

Veliko Tarnovo is found across the border in the beautifully scenic and culturally rich region of northern Bulgaria.

This is one of the historic capitals of former Bulgarian kingdoms, and the rambling streets are awash with history.

The surrounding hills and scenery are equally as spectacular as the medieval city, and it’s well worth a cross-border excursion from Bucharest to experience.

Visiting the Bulgarian coastal city of Varna makes for another excellent cross-border excursion too.

As well as being a great location to experience the Black Sea, Varna is home to a wide range of archaeological museums and exhibits, dating back as far as the Roman times, and is always an interesting city to delve into.

15 Best Day Trips from Bucharest:

• Bran Castle
• Piatra Craiului Mountains
• Peles Castle
• Rasnov Citadel
• Slanic Salt Mine
• Prahova Valley
• Mogosoaia Palace
• Poenari Castle
• Veliko Tarnovo

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Bucharest

Day trips from bucharest.

• Bucharest to Bran
• Bucharest to Sinaia
• Bucharest to Veliko Tarnovo
• Bucharest to Brasov
• Private Day Trips
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Simplified)
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Bucharest to Dracula Castle, Peles Castle and Brasov Guided Tour

2. Dracula's Castle, Peles Castle and Brasov Day Trip from Bucharest

3. Small-Group Day Trip to Dracula's Castle, Brasov and Peles Castle from Bucharest

4. Transfăgărășan Top Gear Road, Wild Brown Bears, Small group max 8

5. Transylvania and Dracula Castle Full Day Tour from Bucharest

6. Dracula's Castle, Brasov and Peles Full-Day Tour from Bucharest

7. Salt Mine Entrance Ticket and Transfer from Bucharest

8. Salt Mine, Planetarium, Winery and Dracula's Grave - Private Tour

9. Day Trip to Medieval Bulgaria- Small group tour

10. Dracula's Castle, Peles Castle and old town Brasov from Bucharest

11. Tour to Dracula's Castle Peles Castle and Brasov from Bucharest

12. Private Day Trip to Peles Castle, Dracula's Castle and Brasov

13. Private tour to Transfagarasan Road and Wild Brown Bears

14. Day Trip to Bran Castle, Peles Castle and Brasov from Bucharest

15. Visit Bulgaria - Veliko Tarnovo Medieval Fortress - Private tour from Bucharest

16. 2-Day Medieval Transylvania with Brasov,Sibiu and Sighisoara Tour from Bucharest

17. Discover Dracula Castle Peles Castle and Brasov Private Tour

18. Castles of Transylvania: Private Day Trip from Bucharest

19. Relax 'n Wellness at Thermal Spa Bucharest (Full Access+Transfer)

20. National Village Museum and Salt Mine in a Day Tour

21. Bulgaria - Caves, Waterfalls and Hiking in the National Park

22. 1 Day ATV Tour in Carpathian Mountains

23. One Day Private Tour to Peles and Dracula Castles & Brasov City

24. Dracula Castle Private Tour with Brasov City and Peles Castle

25. Full-Day Bucharest Tour with Mogosoaia Palace and Snagov Monastery

26. Private Half Day Trip to Snagov Monastery and Mogosoaia Palace from Bucharest

27. Transfăgărășan Top Gear Road, Wild Brown Bears, Mini group max 8

28. Private Daytrip Hike to Bucegi Mountains

29. Muddy Volcanoes and the Largest Salt Mine, Private tour

30. Searching for Dracula: Private Day Trip from Bucharest

What travellers are saying.

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Multi-day tours and trips from bucharest.

When people hear “Romania,” images of Dracula and medieval walled cities come to mind. Well, they wouldn’t be completely wrong.

Most multi-day tours from Bucharest venture deep into the heart of Transylvania, but this region is more than just the home of vampiric legends. From castles to mountains, rivers and monasteries, Romania has it all.

These compact tours offer insight into Romanian traditions and folklore, culture and cuisine. You will learn about religion and nature alike, keeping all experiences balanced to promote all aspects of Romanian life.

Bucharest is the most affluent city in the region and has mounds of untamed charm and atmosphere. However, only a few days away from the city will open your eyes to the vast treasures of the rest of the country.

2-day tours from Bucharest

Europe’s most mysterious location is the main focus of 2-day tours from Bucharest . Venture into the heart of Transylvania to uncover the fascinating history of Romania. See its culture and traditions in action along with the bountiful natural surroundings of this mountainous country.

Stay overnight in Sighisoara and explore iconic attractions like Bran Castle and Brasov . You will also get to experience the nail-biting twists and turns of the Carpathian Mountain road that connects Transylvania and Wallachia .

Enjoy these tours as part of a small group or choose the luxury of a private tour if you want a more intimate experience.

A contrasting 2-day tour is a visit to Europe’s second largest Delta, the Danube Delta. Spend 2 days discovering this profound habitat that has also been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You will pay a visit to the ancient port city of Tulcea and take to the water to see the more than 300 species of birds that live in the wetlands. That is only the tip of the iceberg. Some 2-day trips take you into the majestic caves and monasteries of southern Romania, hiking in the Bucegi Mountains, or bear watching in lush forests.

You can also make a quick trip to neighboring Bulgaria and visit Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanasi. One of the most striking locations is the St. Dimitrii of Basarbovo Monastery which is carved into a large rockface.

You will also stop at Tsarevets, the impressive Old Fortress of The Bulgarian Tsars from the 12th century. Here you can overnight in the charming UNESCO Heritage City of Arbanasi where time momentarily comes to a standstill.

3-day tours from Bucharest

With a little more time on your hand, you can delve deeper into the idyllic towns and cities around Romania. A 3-day tour from Bucharest sets your sites on Transylvania but you will have much more time to stop and smell the roses along the way.

You will also visit more attractions that give you a glimpse into the nuanced past of Romania. Focus on the medieval past of Transylvania with visits to Sighisoara, Brasov and Sibiu and add stops like Biertan church, Curtea de Argeș and Cozia Monastery for even more color.

You get to overnight in two different cities and also enjoy insightful tours in them both. These tours can be done as part of a group while a private tour allows you to slightly tweak the itinerary and the time spent at each stop.

Alternatively, opt for a 4x4 3-day tour of Transylvania to get into the backcountry roads and see the unspoiled nature of Romania.

4-day tours from Bucharest

A 4-day tour from Bucharest is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to indulge in rich sensory experiences all over Romania. Venture between mountains, monasteries, medieval citadels and magnificent forests and get in-depth insights into the many faces of Romania.

These longer tours offer the comfort of private transportation and the undivided attention of a tour guide assigned to you or your small group. Forget about combing through endless reviews and itineraries as your whole experience is already set out for you.

The painted monasteries of Bucovina is one of the rare treats on a 4-day tour and many fast-hitting travelers often overlook this magnificent treasure. A 4-day tour from Bucharest also gives you the chance to cross borders and finish your tour in Budapest .

You will travel northwest through Romania and still hit all the major tourist spots like the medieval cities of Brasov, Sighisoara and Sibiu as well as the iconic home of Dracula, Bran Castle . On the fourth day, you will cross into Hungary and be dropped off at your hotel to continue your journey in Hungary.

Best Places to Visit in Bucharest

Tours and things to do in bucharest, best day trips from bucharest.

• Tours & Day Trips in Bucharest

Bucharest is the capital of Romania and an eclectic city that will surprise you! It has much to offer: a Balkan vibe, Oriental influences with a communist past, a Western-inspired lifestyle and Latin blood. Take any guided tour we've prepared for you - it's the best way to experience this vibrant melting pot!

Start by reading our guide on what to do in Bucharest with 50+ ideas on things to do, best places to visit, where to go out and day trip ideas. Why visit Bucharest? In short - to see a European capital bustling with activity with a vibrant and youthful cultural scene, fine-dining and amazing nightlife , Belle Epoque era villas that survived the transformations ordered by the Romanian communist regime .

Day trips from Bucharest: the best day trips from Bucharest will take you to famous tourist attractions in Romania such as Peles Castle, Bran Castle (aka Dracula's Castle), the city of Brasov or the famous Transfagarasan Road. Visiting Constanta, the Black Sea coast or the Danube Delta on a small group tour is also a great choice.

For multi-day trips you can go hiking in Romania or to discover the best places to visit in Transylvania .

Finally, check our Bucharest public transport guide for more info and how to get to the city from the airport, and our article on Bucharest safety .

Here's a list with the day trips in Bucharest and guided tours we created so you have a great time in Romania's capital city:

Categories:

Major romanian cities: all tours & day trips.

• Tours & Day Trips in Cluj-Napoca
• Tours & Day Trips in Timisoara
• Tours & Day Trips in Sibiu
• Tours & Day Trips in Brasov

Top attractions in Romania Tours

• Castles, Fortresses & Historic Tours
• UNESCO Sites & Cultural Tours
• Transylvania Tours and Trips
• Turda Salt Mine Tours
• Transfagarasan Road Tours
• Bran Castle Tours
• Peles Castle Tours
• Corvin (Hunyadi) Castle Tours
• 7 Stairs (Ladders) Canyon Tours

Romanian Adventures & Wildlife Tours

• Bike & Cycling Tours
• Hiking & Trekking Trips
• Wildlife Watching & Tracking Trips
• Ski & Winter Sports Tours

Authentic Romanian Trips

• Food & Wine Tours
• Unique Experiences with Locals

Hike to Glacial Lakes in the Wild Iezer Papusa Mts

Start from: Bucharest

• customisable

Private Day Trip to Brasov, Bran Castle and Peles Castle [NO Dracula stuff]

Vacaresti Natural Park: the Newest Urban Delta

Bucharest Getaways: Mogosoaia Palace & Snagov Lake

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Bucharest Street Food Tour: Farmers' Markets & Hidden Streets

Start from: University Square

Road trip to Poenari Castle & Transfagarasan Highway

The Wine Tradition of Romania: Premium Wine Tasting in Dealu Mare

The Black Sea Calling: Day Trip to Constanta & Mamaia Beach

Complete Bucharest Communism Tour: Palace of Parliament & Ceausescu's Home

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Reviews about Tours & Day Trips in Bucharest

It was luck that I've found this tour. We had a fantastic tour with Daniel on a warm Saturday morning. Loved the food and the local perspective as well as all the interesting information. It wasn't just a preconstructed tour, he reacted to our questions and knew a lot. The guide also considered allergies and had ideas of alternatives.

Ilana gave a great tour. I loved all of the history she presented as part of the journey. I felt like I got to know how the citizens lived their day today lives. I would definitely recommend this tour. The food was delicious as well.

Marius at Romanian Friend suggested this when I told him about our plans and we loved it, it was the highlight of our family trip in Romania! the guide was very friendly and took us to places we would have never found on our own, or thought about going to, and gave us a nice presentation of the other side of Bucharest. and the food was great too! a real off-the-beaten path experience, thanks!

we were looking to get out of Bucharest and be in nature on our last day so we contacted Romanian Friend on Friday, they quickly replied and on Saturday we went on this tour with Oana. the trip was great, Snagov forest is wonderful and we had a great time. the trails were not difficult at all and the bikes were proper and well maintained. thank you!

We greatly enjoyed our food walking tour! By far the best day we spent on our visit to Bucharest! So many tasty things and super well organized.

The tour was great! The guide was informative and I learned so much more than I already knew. She was able to answer my questions and give me advice on restaurants, getting back to the airport, and food. I learned so much about the history of Romania and its people.

**A cultural insight into history, neighbourhoods and food with a well-informed and personable guide** Bogdan met us outside the National Theatre with snacks and talked us through the relevant history of Bucharest and Romania which we needed for context of our visit through inner-city neighbourhoods and then onto a delightful, low-key restaurant for a platter of local foods. We then caught the tram to the food market where Bogdan talked us through the various produce/provenance and bought fresh fruits/dessert to accompany our last stop at a super-popular sausage/meat stand next to the market. We sat down and enjoyed the sausages/fruit/baclava and local beer. Before catching the tram back, Bogdan bought delicious doughnuts. All highly recommended! Thank you Bogdan!

Romanian friend made planning a bespoke tour that included everything my wife and I wanted very easy, and I cannot praise our guide Bogdan enough. He was knowledgeable, thoughtful, and friendly. Making our tour a real delight! Would happily recommend these services!

Alina made our visit to the Parliment building and Nicolae Ceaușescu's home seemless. We really enjoyed the extra time Alina took to explain the boulevards, monuments and the whole story of the revolution at the square. The extra bonus was their car was comfortable and they brought communist era chocolate !!

We really enjoyed our time with Anita, it combined my 2 favorite things, history and food. Anita was very generous with her time and made stops based on our interests. We had wonderful conversations and I'd highly recommend this tour. It allowed us to see sides of Bucharest tourists would not likely encounter on their own.

Best Day Trips & Tours in Bucharest

Bucharest has many popular tourist attractions and sights that will surely keep its visitors busy for at least 3 days. Being Romania’s largest city, it’s also diverse with lots of things to do, events, places to hang out, coffee shops and more. Romania’s capital city will also please any type of traveler who will find the best day trips according to his or her interests!

There are a number of Bucharest tours that will guide you through the communist history & landmarks as well as French-inspired 19th-century architecture. You'll also find a talented local cultural scene along with street art & abandoned buildings, hip urban spots, green parks, and hidden areas that will provide shelter from the bustling city center.

You can certainly go on a number of walking tours in Bucharest but if you've got limited time then you may decide to explore only the central parts of Bucharest and reserve the rest for a full day trip. So here are our choices for the top things to see on a Bucharest city break.

Main tourist sights in Bucharest

Undoubtedly, the main highlights and tourist attractions in Bucharest are the Palace of Parliament, the Romanian Village Museum, the Peasant Museum, ancient Orthodox churches, and the Old Town District of Lipscani. You will find that the majority of Bucharest city tours cover most of these. If you have just one day in the capital of Romania make sure to get in the highlights!

• Discover the Palace of Parliament & Bucharest's communist history

Holding a rightfully-acquired first place is the famous Palace of Parliament also known as House of People, as former dictator Nicolae Ceausescu liked to call it. This massive building will surely impress tourists and visitors, whether from the outside or inside.

With more than one thousand rooms and impressive amounts of marble, hardwood, glass crystals, and gold, this outstanding attraction presents a unique glimpse into Romania’s history. Its construction started in the early 80s and was overseen by the-then presidential couple Elena and Nicolae Ceausescu who played an essential role in lavishly decorating it, while the Romanian people were suffering from shortages of food and basic necessities.

The Parliament House can be visited only through an official guided tour that, unfortunately, will not tell you much about Romanian history. But on our private Essential Communism Tour you'll learn about that and also take a short trip to Ceausescu’s private home, Vila Primaverii, a ‘must-see’ for those interested in a communist Bucharest history.

• Catch a glimpse of rural life at the Romanian Village Museum

Despite being in Romania’s busiest city, you can also get a glimpse of the beautiful Romanian village life and our rich rural traditions and customs in a great way. Tucked away from crowded boulevards you will find the outdoor Romanian Village Museum. It is located close to Herestrau Park, and contains life-sized replicas of village houses from traditional and representative regions of Romania.

That's why this is my favorite place to recommend to those short on time or on a quick city break in Bucharest who want to find out more about Romanian culture.

A guided tour of the museum is one of the best things you can do while in Bucharest, as it will swiftly whisk you away from the bustling city life and transport you back in time to a place where everything was centered around community and traditions.

• Discover Romanian history

You can also consider visiting the Romanian Peasant Museum, a great place to get a glimpse of how our resourceful, self-sustainable ancestors lived for hundreds of years in perfect harmony with nature. Finally, there is the National History Museum where you should not miss the collection of golden bracelets that belonged to our Dacian ancestors.

• Visit Ancient Orthodox churches

A Bucharest day trip is never complete without a chance to view some of the beautiful Orthodox churches in the city. There are lots of them, and some are even considered centuries-old monuments that carry a lot of history on their painted walls.

If you only have the time to see one church during your Bucharest city tour, the Mihai Voda church is the best option. It is the oldest and most well-preserved church in Bucharest, while also being a rare example of medieval religious architecture. The church was constructed in 1594 by Mihai Viteazul, who was an important figure in Romanian history.

If you want to visit these impressive churches we prepare an organized tour so that you have someone to show you all the details you'd miss otherwise. The Mihai Voda church has many stories to tell!

• Eat, drink, and have fun in Bucharest's Old Town

Now it’s time to discover the best places for a fun time while in Bucharest, and the Old Town, located in the city center, is the place to be. The area has developed a very solid reputation for good restaurants, bars, clubs, and nightlife. Some of the favourites include Grand Café Van Gogh, Hanul lui Manuc, Caru’ cu Bere, The Gin Factory, Interbelic, Club A, Shoteria - just to name a few! Our favorite place for evening drinks is Linea Closer to the Moon - check it out!

By day you can explore the cobbled streets and admire the beautiful Baroque-Renaissance architecture before stopping at one of the many cafes or restaurants.

You certainly must try Romanian traditional cuisine: cabbage rolls (sarmale) served with polenta are a popular dish for anyone visiting Bucharest, as are ciorba dishes (sour soups). Romanians also make great coffee, so you’re in for a treat!

In the evening, the Old Town transforms into a party center and the music will be playing until the early hours of the morning. If you are looking for great nightlife and a fun place for your weekend getaway - then Bucharest is your city!

Our Bucharest pub crawling tour and craft beer tour are a great way for you to experience all this!

Things to do for 1-2 days in Bucharest

Walk along the wide boulevards. One of the things we recommend you do while in Bucharest is to go for a walk (or perhaps a bike tour) along the long promenades, the wide-boulevards crisscrossing the most important city of Romania. On your list should be Calea Victoriei (Victory Boulevard), Kisselef Road (Calea Kisselef), or Regina Elisabeta Boulevard (Queen Elizabeth Road).

The most famous and historically significant street in Romania is surely Calea Victoriei. The best way to explore Romania’s most famous street is by foot, but be prepared for a long walk as the road is a full 3km in distance! On the street, you will find landmarks such as the Grigore Antipa Museum of Natural History and the Cantacuzino Palace (don't confuse with Cantacuzino Castle in Busteni, another great place to visit on a day trip).

Not to mention some beautiful houses, churches and also shops! Not too far from Calea Victoriei is one of the most ‘Instagramable’ places in Bucharest; a passage filled with multi-coloured umbrellas. This is a popular instagram spot and, of course, where most travel bloggers flock to!

If you continue along Calea Victoriei, it will lead you to Revolution Square, the place where Nicolae Ceausescu’s regime crumbled on the cold morning of December 21, 1989, the start of the Romanian Revolution. The best way to find out more about the events in 1989 is on our Bucharest Untold tour.

• Discover Bucharest's artistic side

For those interested in the cultural and artistic side of Bucharest, tourists will be happy to hear that there are many art galleries in town.

The most prestigious with renowned painters and collections include Zorzini Gallery, H'art Gallery, Anaid, and Artmark. A particular spot belongs to Galateca Gallery which specializes in avant-garde design. Of course, the National Art Museum located in the former Royal Palace building, and the National Museum of Contemporary Art hosted by a wing of the Palace of Parliament are a must for art-lovers.

• Observe Bucharest's architecture and city landscapes

Observe and admire the superb and sometimes peculiar architecture of the various buildings and important edifices you will see on your way, such as the Romanian Athenaeum, considered to be the most beautiful building in the Romanian capital.

Constructed in 1888 as a concert hall, the Romanian Athenaeum is an architectural combination of neoclassic and eclectic elements. Unfortunately, you can only enter during concerts and events but you may be able to view the foyer if you are lucky! Some Bucharest tours can also guarantee entry. If you happen to venture into the gardens of the Athenaeum for a spot of sightseeing, you will find there numerous statues of important cultural and political Romanian personalities.

Did you know that Bucharest was also known as ‘Little Paris’ during the interwar period?

And the easiest way to see this is through its architecture, but there’s more. Bucharest has its very own Arc de Triomphe, which resembles its more famous Parisian brother! The Arcul de Triumf (in Romanian) is also host to a small museum where visitors view exhibitions such as The Great War of Reunification of the Nation, Heraldry of the Great Boyar Families (bronze effigies, photographs), The Arch of Triumph in Images (photographs, all the historical models), and The Great Union of 1918 (crowns and royal scepter reproduced).

Our Bucharest Little Paris tour is a walking small group tour designed to give you a taste of all of the above!

• Enjoy a day in Bucharest's massive parks

A leisurely stroll (or bike ride) in the magnificent parks of Bucharest is an experience not to be missed, especially in the summer season, when the parks are green and full of life. You will certainly return to your home city feeling very jealous!

Bucharest has a great number of parks and green spaces, but Herestrau Park stands out as the best among them! The park boasts a huge lake and also its very own island, Rose Island. There are lots of pathways for running, cycling and also playgrounds for children.

Once you reach the northern section of the lake you’ll find a large number of cafes, restaurants, and clubs. Most likely the widest range of dining choices that you will ever find in a park!

Not exactly a park, the Vacaresti Delta has been declared the biggest urban biosphere in Europe! The reserve stretches over 190 hectares and is home to various species of birds and small mammals, such as foxes, otters, and more. The intriguing thing about this biopark is that it was not intended to be a natural reserve at all.

In communist Bucharest, several infrastructure projects were planned for the area, including an artificial basin. After the anti-communist revolution in 1989, all plans were abandoned and nature eventually reclaimed the land as its own and turned it into a beautiful place for nature lovers!

Day Trips from Bucharest

For those looking to get outside of the city and visit its surroundings for a great time, there are some very excellent options to consider for a full-day trip.

Bucharest tours are a good introduction to Romania but if you want to really understand Romanian culture and its people you need to venture a bit further away from the capital. This may mean that you will need to join a Bucharest city tour bus or hop on public transportation for some fast-forward travel time, so you can also discover other parts of Romania while in this beautiful country.

The most popular day tours are just a few hours' drive away from the capital city and will either bring you close to the mountains or, if you consider yourself a beach person, take you to the Black Sea in the city of Constanta. The choice is yours, and we are here to make your stay in Romania feel like a dream.

• Bucharest locals’ favourite getaway

A short drive to Mogosoaia and Snagov will lead you to the locals’ favourite weekend getaway spots, with plenty of nature and history, too! So, if you want to blend in with the locals and see how they spend their weekends, a visit to Mogosoaia and Snagov is one of the best Bucharest day trips to consider.

Mogosoaia Palace is representative of Romania’s 17-18th century feudal lords and displays a unique architectural style. And beyond dense forests lies Snagov Lake, with the 15th century Snagov Monastery in the middle of it where Vlad the Impaler (the real-life inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula) is supposedly buried.

• Bran Castle tours from Bucharest

Speaking of Dracula and lords, Romania’s most beautiful castles, Peles Castle (one and a half hours drive) and the famous Bran Castle (Dracula’s Castle, two and a half hours drive), can be visited on one of the most popular day tours from Bucharest, which will also take you to the charming medieval city of Brasov.

You'll find lots of companies doing big bus tours with this itinerary but we don't like that and only offer a private tour so you take your time to explore these incredible sights.

So, you can switch from admiring the medieval walls on a Bran Castle tour to reaching the vibrant Council Square in the town center of Brasov in under a one-hour drive. While in Brasov, you can go on a lovely uphill walk to the Tampa Peak to see the city from above. You can also reach Tampa Peak with a cable car.

Another must-do in the beautiful city of Brasov is to visit the Black Church and admire its medieval walls, with over 600 years old history.

Even if Peles Castle isn’t as well-known as Bran Castle, it’s an impressive construction. It was constructed by King Carol I of Romania as a summer residence and its inauguration was in 1883. This is the favourite place for many Romanians for a great weekend getaway, not only for its architecture but also for its beautiful surroundings.

Furthermore, Peles Castle is located close to the old royal train station, which was exclusively reserved for the Royal Family and its guests at the summer royal residence.

• Other best places to visit on a day trip from Bucharest

Close to Sinaia, where Peles Castle is located, is the region of Dealu Mare, known for its vineyards and premium wine producers. This is the best place to go for a wine tasting trip in Romania.

We highly recommend choosing one of our guided Transylvania tours from Bucharest if you want to see all these sights in one day, otherwise, it might be a bit challenging for a do-it-yourself tour, especially with regular buses.

On your way to Brasov, you can also make a stop at an astonishing place, the Slanic Prahova salt mine is the biggest salt mine in Europe. Turda Salt Mine, closer to Cluj-Napoca, may be more popular but it's too far away to visit during a day trip. Nevertheless, Slanic Salt Mine will not disappoint!

Poenari Castle - where Vlad the Impaler actually lived - is another interesting sight to visit. It's a favorite place for those interested in Dracula history and legends even if this medieval fortress is now in ruins. And if combined with the famous Transfagarasan Road (open for driving only from July - October) then this will be a great day trip out of Bucharest!

If you don’t want to go to the most famous castles in Romania to avoid the crowds, you can also choose a small group tour from Bucharest with other sights in the area, such as Cantacuzino Castle, 7 Stairs Canyon or even a hiking trip to Bucegi National Park where you can see the Romanian Sphynx!

Finally, another major tourist attraction in Romania that can be visited on a day trip from Bucharest is the famous Transfagarasan Road – the ‘best road in the world’ according to Top Gear, which crosses the impressive Fagaras Mountains.

Located 250 km away from Bucharest on winding roads leading deep into the Carpathian Mountains, the road is open only from June until September and is accessible only by car. On your way there, don’t miss Curtea de Arges Monastery, a major Orthodox and historic sight. The Transfagarasan Road is one of the best tours to the famous Transylvania from Bucharest.

• The Black Sea and Constanta: Fun by the beach

You may have heard about Romania’s Black Sea – yes, just 220 km away from Bucharest is the city of Constanta and the golden fine sands of Mamaia, the most famous beach resort in Romania. Close to the city of Constanta by the Black Sea Coast you'll find plenty of resorts with lots of options based on your interests, requirements and budget.

There's something for everyone here. So, for example, if you are looking for something different, the main road in Mamaia will lead you to less crowded but wilder beaches with unique beauty, such as Corbu and Vadu.

So if you’re longing to see the amazing view of the sea, hear and feel its breeze, take a boat ride, and even find out how the ancient port of Tomis helped spread multiculturalism, tolerance, and commerce in the region – consider a small group day tour from Bucharest to the Black Sea coast.

And if you want to have a proper holiday by the sea, you'll find a fair share of resorts to choose from for every budget type.

On your journey from Bucharest to Constanta, you will have the opportunity to cross the Danube River and admire the Anghel Saligny bridge, built between 1890 and 1895.

• The Danube Delta: Nature's wonderland

How about a tour from Bucharest to the Danube Delta? The second-largest river delta in Europe! The UNESCO biosphere Danube Delta is further away from Bucharest and harder to access so you will need at least 2 days to learn about the wonders and sights of this great place. We certainly wouldn’t consider it a day trip from Bucharest but instead a guided bus tour for those who have more time to spend in Romania.

• from Romania to Bulgaria in no time: Veliko Tarnovo and Tsaravets medieval fortress

A one-day trip from Bucharest can take you across the Romanian border, to Veliko Tarnovo, a beautiful medieval town in northern Bulgaria. This small town is rich in history and is home to one of the most beautiful medieval fortresses in Europe, Tsaravets.

Located 100 kilometers from Veliko Tarnovo, you'll find a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo. This is where the first hermits excavated their cells and churches during the 12th century. The murals from the 14th century bear witness to the extraordinary talent of the artists associated with the Tarnovo School of Painting.

If you want a custom tour or have any questions - don't hesitate to contact us, we're happy to help!

• Bucharest City Tour – Full Day
• Jewish Bucharest Tour
• Bucharest Food Tour
• Bucharest Communist Tour
• Bucharest Walking Tour
• Bucharest City Tour – Half Day
• 2 Days In Bucharest – Private Tour
• Bucharest Art Deco & Modernism Walking Tour
• Bucharest Layover Tours
• Bucharest to Bran Castle & Peles Castle Day Trip
• Bucharest to Poenari Citadel Day Trip (Dracula Tour)
• Wine Tour from Bucharest to Dealu Mare Wine Region
• Bucharest to Constanta & the Black Sea Coast Day Trip
• Day Trip to Targoviste: Princely Court of Dracula & The Last Days of Ceausescu
• Near Bucharest Trip: Snagov Monastery & Mogosoaia Palace
• Testimonials – What my guests have to say
• My 2017 Volkswagen Golf Car
• Tour Photos

Private tours in Bucharest & Romania with your personal guide

• Bucharest tours and Day Trips from Bucharest – the tour is exclusively for you, without join-in travelers and without the hassle of a group tour.
• Custom tours – if you don’t find the perfect tour for you, I will put together a custom tour/itinerary to suit your interests or needs and available time.
• Explore Bucharest in comfort – by my private car or good vehicles from reliable companies.

I am Cris, independent tourist guide based in Bucharest, Romania, and I invite you to discover my native city and country with me. You will have a local friend to show you around, tour flexibility and my total attention and dedication.

Bucharest tours .

Bucharest Walking Tours 

Day Trips from Bucharest

. From testimonials “It was a special treat to spend the day with her”

“Throughout our tour, Cristina seemed as interested in seeing and talking about Romanian sites and history as we were in hearing about them”

“I was fascinated and moved”

“She is a genuine person and she can make you feel very strong emotions about her country by sharing her love for Romania with you”

“Cristina, I should be the one to be thanking you for enduring the cold with soaked boots. And the walking and talking was made doubly pleasurable by not only the historical information, but your open conversation about your wonderful country. I felt that I had heard an honest and heart felt opinion of your world and concerns. This was as enlightening as your insight to the history and people of Romania.”

“You are amazing! We are home now and truly of everywhere we went in Europe we loved Romania the best. You are an incredible ambassador for your people and culture.”

Hi Cris, I plan being in Bucharest arriving September 9th and leaving September 16th and would like to join any small group tours you have during that period. Thank you, Mary

Hello Mary,

My tours are private and held on request, there are no small group tours you could join. If interested in a private tour please contact me at [email protected] and I will let you know about my availability on the mentioned period. You may have a look at my suggested city tours and prices presented on my site. Thank you! Cristina

Hello Cristina! it’s Eliane from Lebanon! (tour we had to Costanza with Eva Hamalian) 🙂 I just want everybody to know that you are an amazing guide! So knowledgeable, so kind and pleasant…it was a great experience the tour we had together. Hope to see you soon once I’m settled in Bucharest. Kisses. Eliane

I would like to get a private English speaking guide for a day tour of Bucharest and a day tour to Bran and other castle on October 28 & 29 for 1 person. I want to know if you have availability and what will be the cost ?

I would like to arrange an induction both on people, culture and history of Bucharest. Are you free tomorrow

Could you please contact me for city tour

Hello Andrey, my contact email is [email protected] , my WhatsApp number is (004) 0729 141 764. Thank you!

Christina, Did you get the email I just sent? Something strange happened and I want to make sure you received it. William Sanborn

Hello William, I did receive it and have just responded to you on email! 🙂

Sorry for continuing to communicate via your websites. We’re having trouble sending email, but not receiving. How does 1:00 on Thursday sound for meeting us at our hotel? We will be anxiously waiting in front.

Bill & Andrea Sanborn

Hello Bill, Yes 1 PM is fine, I will meet you in front of your hotel Ibis Styles Bucharest Airport Hotel.

Could we communicate via WhatsApp or SMS? My mobile/WhatsApp number is 004 0729 141 764

Leave a Reply

CRISTINA IOSIF 0040 729 141 764 [email protected]

Private Bucharest tours are also offered in French, Spanish & Italian, please inquire us!

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...Mr Doron (Doru) Midroni, who reviewed the contents of this site, and assisted with valuable suggestions. Doru was born and raised in Bucharest, a city he continues to love, and is now living in Toronto, Canada...

Bucharest Insights

• Bucharest Top Landmarks
• Bucharest’s Old Town
• Bucharest’s Churches (36)
• Photo Galleries
• Top 10 Bucharest Churches
• Calea Victoriei (Victory Avenue)
• Did you know? A kaleidoscope of interesting facts, figures and stories about Bucharest & Romania
• Bucharest in the Pre-Modern Period: The Oriental City
• Bucharest in the 19th century
• The Romanian Architect Ion Mincu & the Neo-Romanian Style
• 1980s Demolitions
• Bucharest in Literature
• Vanishing Bucharest
• Romanian Traditional Food

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• Blissful Day During Wine Tasting Day Tour To Dealu Mare Wine Region
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A Gastronomic Tour of Bucharest and Beyond From Fine Dining to Local Favourites

By doug loynes in food & drink.

Bucharest is enjoying a moment as one of Europe’s hottest foodie destinations. A tour through the city’s vibrant gastronomic landscape reveals Romania’s cosmopolitan capital as a hub of diverse taste experiences – from traditional, hearty meals in the Old Town’s lively beer halls, to upscale international dining experiences and fine wines along the city’s famous Calea Victoriei. Here’s how to enjoy the best of the city's food and drink offerings across each of its must-visit districts.

Experience culinary classics in the Central Civic District

Mouth-watering local cuisine served at OLEA, a refined restaurant in the heart of Bucharest, JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel (Photo: Marriott International)

For a taste of authentic Romanian dining, head first for  Hanu’ Berarilor Casa Oprea Soare  near to Bucharest ’s Central Civic district. It’s one of the best spots in the city for  sarmale  – parcels of minced pork and beef stuffed into cabbage rolls and served with a steaming polenta-like side called  mămăligă .

Sarmale make excellent fuel ahead of a stroll around the nearby Palace of Parliament, easily Bucharest’s most famous and imposing landmark, and the world’s second-largest administrative building after the Pentagon. Some of the best views of this astonishing construction are to be had from the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel , where the generously spacious rooms are perfect for unwinding after a day of Bucharest exploration . At the hotel's JW Steakhouse Bucharest restaurant, the finest cuts of beef – including succulent Kobe, not to be found elsewhere in the city – are complemented by seasonal produce harvested in-house at the hotel’s own garden. For a delicious fusion of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavours, there's also OLEA , a trendy outdoor restaurant where sharing plates can be enjoyed amidst the warm glow of the fire pits for an intimate dining experience.

Follow this wholesome feast with a short stroll through leafy Cotroceni to Ceainăria Infinitea , where a hot pot of tea at the cosiest tearoom in town will be waiting.

Drink in the charms of the Old Town

Enjoy divine signature cocktails at The Vault bar, formerly the Marmorosch Blank Bank, at The Marmorosch Bucharest, Autograph Collection (Photo: Marriott International)

Locals will tell you that Bucharest’s buzzing Old Town is the place to party, and  Moxy Bucharest Old Town places you in the heart of the action – if you're in the mood, grab a handcrafted cocktail along with your room key at the hotel’s check-in desk, which doubles as a bar.

You’ll find more mixologists around the corner at The Marmorosch Bucharest, Autograph Collection . The hotel’s renowned bar,  The Vault , is an atmospheric speakeasy housed in a former bank vault, where classic cocktails sit alongside modern innovations on an extensive drinks menu. Upstairs, visionary Chef Flaviu Mureșan serves up French fine dining at the stylish, Belle Époque-inspired The Blank Restaurant .

One of Bucharest’s liveliest food-and-drink experiences lies just a five-minute walk away at the city’s oldest beerhouse. Literally translating as ‘the beer wagon’, Caru’ cu Bere is one of Bucharest’s best-loved restaurants, where locals and tourists alike gather to drink in the atmosphere – and the award-winning house brew – in stunning Neo-Gothic surroundings. Lively folk music and dance performances complement the restaurant’s traditional flavour, but the real showstopper here is the food. Don’t leave without trying the slow-roasted pork knuckle: locals swear by it.

Explore cosmopolitan cuisine along Calea Victoriei

A chef hard at work preparing authentic Japanese cuisine at the Benihana Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar at Sheraton Bucharest Hotel (Photo: Marriott International)

Calea Victoriei is the main artery that runs through central Budapest , a historic thoroughfare lined with upscale shops, busy bars, and iconic architectural sights like the Cantacuzino Palace. It’s also dotted with authentic eateries like Coclintă Brasserie , a small venue that’s earned a reputation as the best place in town for hand-baked plăcintă pies – traditional Romanian pastries packed with classic ingredients like cheese, cabbage, and sheep sausage. 

A little further north, the fashionable downtown neighbourhood of Dorobanți is the spot for high-end, cosmopolitan cuisine. You’ll notice a strong Italian influence here; if you’re craving fresh pasta or pizza, the local favourite is the  Trattoria Mazzaluna restaurant. There’s also the superb Benihana Japanese Steakhouse and Sushi Bar at Sheraton Bucharest Hotel , where guests have a front-row seat to a cooking masterclass. Here, talented chefs prepare dishes on an open grill in the centre of the room, with more than a little customary flair. For a traditional tipple, try a glass of Romanian wine at the hotel’s Centro Bar and get a taste of why Romania is Europe's fifth-largest wine producer, then soak up the views from the Sheraton Skyview Pool & Spa .

Indulge in upscale dining in Primăverii

Solt Dining, Courtyard Bucharest Floreasca, boasts fresh, local ingredients showcasing the best of each season (Photo: Marriott International)

Another highly desirable residential neighbourhood in Bucharest is Primăverii, known for its tree-lined avenues and serene parks. The pick of the restaurants here is  Zexe on Aviatorilor Boulevard, a stylish venue that puts a very modern twist on time-honoured Romanian fare. You’ll find a range of dishes from various ciorba (soup) inspired by old Transylvanian recipes to bold fillets of zander fished straight from the Danube. Then there’s the mititei – these mouth-watering rolls of grilled minced are a fixture on every Romanian restaurant’s menu, but Zexe claim that a secret blend of broths and spices render theirs 'probably' the best in the country. Wash everything down with a glass or two of tuică – a traditional fruit brandy packing a serious kick.

Another highly-rated local option is the SOLT Dining restaurant at the Courtyard Bucharest Floreasca , which serves international dishes in a relaxed, New Nordic Dining setting. Locally sourced, seasonal produce keeps the menu fresh; the salads here are especially popular.

Discover a taste of Romania beyond Bucharest

Barsana is a picturesque commune in Maramureș composed of two villages, Bârsana and Nănești (Photo: Getty Images)

Romania ’s other regions offer a whole world of mouth-watering culinary experiences. In the northeast, Moldavia lays claim to some of Romania’s most beloved dishes, from the staple mămăligă to the sweet dumpling desert papanaşi , best enjoyed hot with sour cream or tasty fruit jams. Meanwhile, in the bucolic far northern region of Maramureș, look out for deliciously traditional rustic fare like ciorbă de burtă , a vegetable soup made with tripe, and plates of pârjoale meatballs.

Then there’s the dynamic city of Cluj-Napoca in Transylvania, towards the centre of the country, whose youthful energy is expressed with a marked culinary creativity. Concept restaurants like plant-based Samsara Foodhouse specialise in inventive vegan and vegetarian interpretations of Romanian classics. Round the corner, Roata offers a fine varză a la Cluj , a regional speciality casserole baked with layers of minced meat and cabbage.

One of the best places to stay in Cluj-Napoca is the Courtyard Cluj-Napoca Downtown . Lying just a short drive from the airport, and with Cluj-Napoca’s lively Old Town on its doorstop, the hotel’s in a prime position for a day of sightseeing and gastronomic discovery – starting with the hearty breakfasts prepared at the hotel's Novum restaurant.

Published:  June 05, 2024

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Jewish History Behind the Communist Blocks of Bucharest

H idden behind Bucharest ’s Soviet-style apartment blocks are the traces of the city’s once thriving Jewish community, 70,000 people strong, who lived in the capital before World War II and Soviet demolition nearly obliterated their culture.

Now home to fewer than 4,000 Jews, visitors to Bucharest can tour a handful of remaining sites of Romanian Jewish heritage in the capital. Among the highlights are: a Jewish theater; the Choral Temple and the Yeshua Tova Synagogues, which still hold services; and two other synagogues that host museums, the Great Synagogue and the Holy Union Temple. Visitors can also stroll through the three Jewish cemeteries, which are now part of the communist working-class neighborhoods. More than 100,000 people were buried there, and the oldest funeral stones date from the 18th century.

A Flourishing of Romanian Jewish Culture

In 1923, Jewish Romanians received citizenship after a long quest for civil rights. Living for centuries on Romanian territory, but often discriminated against, the Jewish community won a battle few thought possible at the time.

Many synagogues and temples were built, the Jewish neighborhood, Vacaresti-Dudesti-Mosilor, flourished as jobs were no longer restricted based on religious differences. In Bucharest , nearly 11% of the population was Jewish by the late 1930s and there was a Jewish Theater, several Jewish schools and over 80 synagogues, temples and prayer houses.

The Beginning of the End

The years of the Second World War marked the end of the short-lived period of full civil rights for the Jews from Romania. Anti-racial laws drastically restricted access to employment, education and medical care. Many religious monuments were set on fire. Only half of the nearly 750,000 Jews from Romania survived the war. Most were impoverished and marginalized.

The future looked grim and proved to be under the repressive communist regime that was installed in Romania after 1945. Communist dictators reignited anti-Semitic attitudes at a societal level. Multiculturalism was replaced by uniformity, a less dangerous enemy for the new order.

The state repression coincided with the creation of Israel and the massive Jewish migration, Aliyah, which followed the Second World War. By 1988, only 23,000 Jews remained in Romania, the majority having migrated already to Israel.

However, nothing crushed their heritage like the demolitions and megalomaniac construction sites from the last communist decade, in the 1980s.

Heritage Crumbled Under Bulldozers

The 1980s marked the biggest planned demolition campaign in Bucharest . Almost a third of its historical center was destroyed and tens of thousands of people were relocated, at the direction of communist dictator Nicolae Ceausescu, who wanted to build a new city, fit for his North Korean inspired imagination.

The Jewish neighborhoods that existed in the areas of Dudesti, Vacaresti and Mosilor continue to stand today only in the memories of those who lived there. Houses, historical and religious monuments, hospitals, everything was leveled down to create the open space the dictator needed. Over 60 synagogues, temples and prayer houses were demolished through 1989. Among them: the Spanish Temple, the Russian Synagogue, the Malbim Synagogue and the Spilman Synagogue.

Even the emblematic Choral Temple and the Great Synagogue were on the black list. They survived through a compromise that resulted in a complete metamorphosis of their surroundings. Eight-level high Soviet-looking blocks of flats completely hide the Great Synagogue, making it challenging to find, while the Choral Temple is only at arm’s length from the neighboring communist building.

Behind the Communist Blocks

An unexpected world opens behind Bucharest ’s boulevards lined with Soviet-style blocks. Trapped and hidden even from locals, the surviving fragments of the Jewish heritage create a fascinating puzzle, not to be missed:

• The Three Jewish cemeteries. Dating from the 19th and 20th centuries, the cemeteries – although in an advanced state of disrepair – are a testimony to the bygone importance of the Jewish community from Bucharest . The largest cemetery in the capital and the second in the country is Giurgiului (128 Giurgiului Boulevard) where several monuments were built to commemorate the Holocaust victims. In the same neighborhood, you can visit the Sephardi Cemetery (2 Oltenitei) while the Ashkenazi Cemetery Philanthropy (89-91 Mihalache Boulevard) where many pre-eminent members of the community were buried, is located in the northern part of the city.
• The Choral Temple (9-11 Sfanta Vineri St.). One of the most beautiful Jewish monuments from Romania. Inaugurated in 1866, set on fire and opened again in 1868, this impressive Moorish-style synagogue was almost destroyed by right-wing extremist groups in 1941. International interventions saved it from the demolitions of the 1980s.
• The Great Synagogue (11 Vasile Adamache St.). Dating from 1847, the synagogue hosts a small Holocaust Memorial where you can learn more about the origins of the Jewish community in Romania and the discriminatory measures taken against them until the end of the Second World War. The exhibition includes photo collages and clippings from old newspapers and official documents.
• The Holy Union Temple (3 Mamulari St.). Just a few minutes from the other two synagogues, the monument serves today as the Jewish Museum (It is temporarily closed to the public.)
• Yeshua Tova Synagogue (9 Tache Ionescu ). Built in 1840, this synagogue is one of the two remaining in Bucharest where religious services are still performed. The site can only be visited by appointment.
• The Jewish Theater (15 Iuliu Barsch St.) was constructed after Jewish actors were banned from participating in Romanian theaters during the Second World War. The theater has performances both in Yiddish and Romanian that have continued since. Its recent Yiddish productions included: Tonight: Lola Blau written by Georg Kreisler, The Heraldry written by Shalom Ash, Dibuk by S. Anski and Karpilevski by Jacob Weitzner. The Jewish Theatre remains one of the most appreciated cultural venues in Bucharest .
• The Holocaust Memorial (Ion Brezoianu St.). Although not part of the original Jewish heritage of Bucharest , this contemporary Memorial realized by Peter Jacobi is an important landmark of the community’s history. Inaugurated in 2009, this ensemble of sculptures commemorates the Jewish and Gypsy victims of the Holocaust from Romania.

The Jewish heritage of Bucharest , once a remarkable facet of the capital, survives today only in small islands of history behind the communist blocks, the enduring symbol of the victory, even if temporary, of an extremist ideology over human dignity and cultural diversity.

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Transylvania Tours & Trips from Bucharest

An adventure starting in Bucharest is a great way to see Transylvania. We have 67 tours that range from 3 days up to 16 days. The most popular time for tours from Bucharest is October, which has the most tour departures.

67 Transylvania tours from Bucharest with 195 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
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Transylvania Castles tour in 4 days from Bucharest

Traian went over and above to meet group and individual requests. We recommend him highly.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

• Sightseeing

Discover Transylvania from Airport Bucharest

I really enjoy the tour. I highly recommend this tour.

Discover Medieval Transylvania Small Group Tour - 7 days

The tourist guide was excellent.

• Hiking & Trekking
• Mountain Hikes

Hiking in South Transylvania

The Carpathian Mountains of Romania are stunning and we enjoyed each day of hiking this beautiful area.

• Christmas & New Year

Dracula beyond the legend - 8 day private tour to Transylvania

The tour was excellent, and we had an unforgettable experience.

Treasures of the Balkans (Small Groups, 16 Days)

Discover Transylvania - small group tour, guaranteed departure

3 Days Tour in Transylvania: Peles& Dracula's Castle, Sighisoara & Salt Mine

Excellent tour with the guide Florin that had attentions to all my requests.

Discover Medieval and Wild Transylvania, Meet the Brown Bears, and Count Dracula

Romania is a beautiful country and this holiday did exceed our expectations. The accommodation and breakfast were very good.

Dracula Tour in Romania from Bucharest including 'The Ritual of Killing of a Living Dead

This was my dream vacation come true. I will treasure these memories forever.

Private Dracula Tour 6-Day in Transylvania from Bucharest with Hotel Pick Up/ Drop Off

We had an amazing time, the guides knowledge about the country and history was excellent. I would highly recommended the tour.

Tailor-Made Best Romania Private Tour, Daily Departure

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Best of Romania, 2 special dinners and a show

Cities and UNESCO sites are more beautiful than I expected. Transylvania life is excellent.

Cycle Romania

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Bear Watching in Transylvania - 3 days Tour from Bucharest!

What people love about transylvania tours from bucharest.

I really enjoyed the tour. Everything was well organized and the tour guide was super nice and informative. Would definitely recommend??

Die Tour war genauso, wie ich sie mir vorgestellt hatte. Alle Programmpunkte waren gut organisiert und vorbereitet. Vielen Dank an meinen Reiseleiter Adrian, der stets auf meine Wünsche einging, meine Fragen beantwortete und mir auch genügend freie Zeit gab, um selbstständig auf Entdeckungstour zu gehen. Seine Betreuung war wirklich hervorragend. Die Hotels waren ebenfalls sehr gut, wobei das Hotel in Sibiu besonders zu nennen ist. Vielen Dank für eine wunderschöne, erlebnisreiche Reise!!

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10 European holidays worthy of your 2024 bucket list

From spotting Norway's Northern Lights to a ride on Switzerland's epic Glacier Express train

Our top picks include everything from a one-in-a-lifetime journey on the Glacier Express to a trip to Europe's prettiest Christmas market and a visit to Italy 's renowned foodie city of Bologna . And, all of our top picks feature Good Housekeeping Holidays , tailor-made and expertly curated trips that show you the very best of the region with fuss-free travel.

What's more, some of our organised trips included appearances from some very familiar faces , from top chef James Martin to journalist Michael Portillo . They'll join you on land, sea or rail to share their expertise, give you a tour of the local area and host Q&A sessions, demonstrations, activities and talks.

Take a look at our round-up of the best European bucket list trips to book now for 2024.

Sail the Rhine and visit Mainz, Europe's prettiest Christmas markets

Mainz, one of the oldest cities in Germany, and its historic Christmas market on the Domplatz set against a backdrop of the illuminated Mainz Cathedral is one for your bucket list. With sparkling fairy lights, wooden chalets and the scent of mulled wine, roasted almonds and spiced cider filling the air, you'll be in the Christmas spirit in no time.

What's better than a Christmas market trip ? A festive cruise exploring several of Germany's prettiest winter markets. Our Good Housekeeping Holidays trip will have you soaking up the festive fun in Mainz, Frankfurt, Koblenz, Cologne, and Rüdesheim as you cruise the Rhine aboard the beautifully-appointed A-ROSA Aqua. There's a sauna, fitness area, and whirlpool, plus breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets. Our exclusive Christmas cruise is available to book ahead for December 2024.

Explore the Swiss Alps on the Glacier Express

A rail journey through the Alps is a bucket list trip you'll remember for a lifetime, and our exclusive Good Housekeeping Holiday will allow you to experience the beauty of this mountain range on the iconic Glacier Express. You'll enjoy unrivalled views as you journey past snow-capped peaks, dramatic ravines and beautiful villages, plus visit Bern, Lucerne and Interlaken. The Glacier Express is a rail journey you'll never forget. It's been in operation since 1930, and has been renovated with comfortable carriages and panoramic views of the surrounding snow-covered landscapes.

Our exclusive escape includes high-speed trains from London to Interlaken so you don't have to take a flight for this experience. Plus, there's four nights at the Hotel Metropole in Interlaken and a three-course lunch on the train.

FIND OUT MORE

Taste your way around Italy’s gastronomic capital, Bologna

Italy’s gastronomic capital Bologna is a great bucket list destination for the foodies amongst us. Renowned for its homemade pastas, meaty ragùs and myrtle-spiced mortadella sausage, it's known as La Grassa - 'the fat one'.To discover the fascinating gastronomic history and taste some of its world-famous food on a guided tour, join our Good Housekeeping Holidays trip for six-days of tasty experiences. In Bologna, you'll visit a local Parmesan factory, a Balsamic vineyard, and a family-run Parma ham producer.

On this trip, you'll also spend time in Modena where you can discover the city's history at the grand Duomo or the Ferrari and Lamborghini museums. Plus, take part in a cooking class and learn to host like a local. With a variety of 2024 dates available to book now, could Bologna be the European bucket list destination you tick off in the new year?

Discover the beauty and history of Venice over seven sublime nights

The romantic city of Venice is known and loved for its acclaimed art museums, stunning architecture and colourful history. Alongside the popular tourist spots, from St Mark's Basilica to Doge's Palace, Venice is also packed with hidden gems down the city's slender canals and surrounding islands.

The best way to explore its beauty is on the sleek and stylish, S.S. La Venezia, often described as a floating boutique hotel. You can enjoy a stay on this luxury ship with Good Housekeeping Holidays, where you will be joined by none other than acclaimed chef James Martin. As well as sailing the area and exploring all it has to offer, James will join you on the ship for a talk, Q&A and book signing. What's more, he'll be there to cook a mouthwatering gala dinner for one of your evenings on board.

Visit Madeira’s spectacular Flower Festival

The best time to visit Madeira, also known as the floating garden of the Atlantic, is during its incredible Flower Festival so you can truly soak up the sights, scents and sounds of this special island. The festival is a celebration of spring, and the landscape becomes even more vibrant during the month-long celebration filled with performances and local traditions.

Here at Good Housekeeping , we've got you covered with a tailor-made, eight-day tour of the region during the 2025 Flower Festival so you can see the very best horticultural highlights of the island; from the orchids at Palheiro Gardens to the exquisite colours of the Monte. During this guided tour, you'll also have time to explore the Old Town in Funchal and take in the incredible views of the Ribeiro Frio National Park.

Sail along the Danube and explore Vienna

A cruise along the majestic Danube makes a fabulous European holiday for anyone passionate about art, music, and culture. This grand river meanders through Central Europe, where its banks are dotted with charming villages and magnificent cities such as Vienna, Budapest, and Bratislava, each full to the brim with cultural treasures.

Good Housekeeping's eight-day Danube cruise will take you along the mighty river through the Wachau Valley on board Uniworld 's luxury ship, Maria Theresa. Look forward to stops in Budapest, Bratislava and Vienna, discovering the art, architecture and fascinating history of each city with guided tours. As well as these important cities, you'll also stop off in some smaller towns, like pretty Dürnstein, where you can explore the quaint shops and castle ruins.

Hunt for Norway's Northern Lights

For wild natural scenery and jaw-dropping wildlife in Europe, Norway always delivers. Here adventurous travellers will find breathtaking landscapes dotted with tranquil fjords carved by ancient glaciers and towering, snow-capped mountains. Travellers are also drawn to Norway's icy Arctic region by the chance to see the ethereal Northern Lights dancing in the unpolluted skies. In this northernmost region, at the right time of year, the incredible Aurora is nearly certain to make an appearance. Good Housekeeping has a special winter expedition cruise that will take you through Norway’s fjords and up through the Arctic Circle to spot the Northern Lights

For an extra-special Northern Lights experience, why not join our expedition cruise with expert photographer Doug Allen, who has worked on David Attenborough's Blue Planet? Doug will give you tips on how to capture the best of Norway's landscapes and wildlife on camera and will join you on an Arctic Coastal walk.

Cruise the Douro Valley and taste fine wines

Portugal’s Douro Valley is a wonderfully scenic wine-producing region, where rolling, sun-kissed hills are dotted with historic vineyards and wine estates that have been producing flavoursome Port wines for centuries. It makes an ideal European holiday destination for wine enthusiasts who can visit some of these historic Quintas and learn all about the process of wine production in the valley. Good Housekeeping's eight-day cruise will begin in Portugal's second city of Porto, where you'll have some time to explore the historic old town, a UNESCO world heritage site, before setting sail along the river. You'll also stop at Régua, a town that has produced port wine since the 18th Century and continue onwards to the little town of Pinhão.

Travel from Venice to Paris on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express

When it comes to European rail adventures, it doesn't get better than a trip on board the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. This is an exceptionally luxurious train, with meticulously restored 1920s and 1930s carriages, kitted out with plush armchair seating, gleaming polished wood and brass fixtures. seasonal four-course d'hôte menus are served in the dining car, with a sommelier on hand with the perfect pairings.

The train travels several different routes throughout the year, but a favourite is an overnight trip from Venice to Paris. Good Housekeeping is offering a special ride on this route, where you'll be joined by journalist Michael Portillo, who'll give an evening talk and travel with you on the train. Michael is passionate about rail travel, and this will be his first time travelling on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.

Explore Transylvania and stay at an Ice Hotel

For an unforgettable European trip, explore the gothic region of Transylvania and stay at the iconic Ice Hotel, which is built every year entirely of snow and ice blocks extracted from a glacial lake in the Fagaras Mountains. For an expert-led trip, you can join us on a Good Housekeeping Holidays guided tour through the region as you soak up the history, culture and charm of some of Romania's most picturesque medieval towns.

Tick Bucharest and Brasov off your list, before you head up rugged mountains for a stay at the Ice Hotel where you can go snow rafting or simply enjoy the icy scenery. On your return to Bucharest, you'll also visit Bran Castle, otherwise known as Dracula's Castle - one for the bucket list.

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New study finds Earth warming at record rate, but no evidence of climate change accelerating

A woman is silhouetted against the setting sun as triple-digit heat indexes continue in the Midwest, Aug. 20, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)

FILE - A woman is silhouetted against the setting sun as triple-digit heat indexes continue in the Midwest, Aug. 20, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo. The rate Earth is warming hit an all-time high in 2023 with 92% of last year’s surprising record-shattering heat caused by humans, top scientists calculated. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel, File)

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FILE - People suffering from heat related ailments crowd the district hospital in Ballia, Uttar Pradesh state, India, June 20, 2023. The rate Earth is warming hit an all-time high in 2023 with 92% of last year’s surprising record-shattering heat caused by humans, top scientists calculated. (AP Photo/Rajesh Kumar Singh, File)

FILE - Braxton Hicks, 7, of Livingston, Texas, holds his face to a portable fan to cool off during the DYB, formerly Dixie Youth Baseball, Little League tournament in Ruston, La., Aug. 9, 2023. The rate Earth is warming hit an all-time high in 2023 with 92% of last year’s surprising record-shattering heat caused by humans, top scientists calculated. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert, File)

FILE - A scuba diver swims near bleached coral, left, and healthy coral at the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary, off the coast of Galveston, Texas, Sept. 15, 2023. The rate Earth is warming hit an all-time high in 2023 with 92% of last year’s surprising record-shattering heat caused by humans, top scientists calculated. (AP Photo/LM Otero, File)

FILE - A man takes a shower on a beach on a hot day in Ostia, near Rome, Aug. 23, 2023. The rate Earth is warming hit an all-time high in 2023 with 92% of last year’s surprising record-shattering heat caused by humans, top scientists calculated. (AP Photo/Gregorio Borgia, File)

FILE - Taylor Swift fans wait for the doors of Nilton Santos Olympic stadium to open for her Eras Tour concert amid a heat wave in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Nov. 18, 2023. The rate Earth is warming hit an all-time high in 2023 with 92% of last year’s surprising record-shattering heat caused by humans, top scientists calculated. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo, File)

FILE - A girl walks holding hands with a man carrying an electric fan on his back on a hot evening in Bucharest, Romania, July 25, 2023. The rate Earth is warming hit an all-time high in 2023 with 92% of last year’s surprising record-shattering heat caused by humans, top scientists calculated. (AP Photo/Andreea Alexandru, File)

The rate Earth is warming hit an all-time high in 2023 with 92% of last year’s surprising record-shattering heat caused by humans, top scientists calculated.

The group of 57 scientists from around the world used United Nations-approved methods to examine what’s behind last year’s deadly burst of heat . They said even with a faster warming rate they don’t see evidence of significant acceleration in human-caused climate change beyond increased fossil fuel burning.

Last year’s record temperatures were so unusual that scientists have been debating what’s behind the big jump and whether climate change is accelerating or if other factors are in play.

“If you look at this world accelerating or going through a big tipping point, things aren’t doing that,” study lead author Piers Forster, a Leeds University climate scientist, said. “Things are increasing in temperature and getting worse in sort of exactly the way we predicted.”

People suffering from heat related ailments crowd the district hospital in Ballia, Uttar Pradesh state, India, June 20, 2023. (AP Photo/Rajesh Kumar Singh)

It’s pretty much explained by the buildup of carbon dioxide from rising fossil fuel use, he and a co-author said.

Last year the rate of warming hit 0.26 degrees Celsius (0.47 degrees Fahrenheit) per decade — up from 0.25 degrees Celsius (0.45 degrees Fahrenheit) the year before. That’s not a significant difference, though it does make this year’s rate the highest ever, Forster said.

Still, outside scientists said this report highlights an ever more alarming situation.

“Choosing to act on climate has become a political talking point but this report should be a reminder to people that in fact it is fundamentally a choice to save human lives,” said University of Wisconsin climate scientist Andrea Dutton, who wasn’t part of the international study team. “To me, that is something worth fighting for.”

A scuba diver swims near bleached coral, left, and healthy coral at the Flower Garden Banks National Marine Sanctuary, off the coast of Galveston, Texas, Sept. 15, 2023. (AP Photo/LM Otero)

The team of authors — formed to provide annual scientific updates between the every seven- to eight-year major U.N. scientific assessments — determined last year was 1.43 degrees Celsius warmer than the 1850 to 1900 average with 1.31 degrees of that coming from human activity. The other 8% of the warming is due mostly to El Nino , the natural and temporary warming of the central Pacific that changes weather worldwide and also a freak warming along the Atlantic and just other weather randomness.

On a larger 10-year time frame, which scientists prefer to single years, the world has warmed about 1.19 degrees Celsius (2.14 degrees Fahrenheit) since pre-industrial times, the report in the journal Earth System Science Data found.

The report also said that as the world keeps using coal, oil and natural gas, Earth is likely to reach the point in 4.5 years that it can no longer avoid crossing the internationally accepted threshold for warming: 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 degrees Fahrenheit ).

That fits with earlier studies projecting Earth being committed or stuck to at least 1.5 degrees by early 2029 if emission trajectories don’t change. The actual hitting of 1.5 degrees could be years later, but it would be inevitable if all that carbon is used, Forster said.

It’s not the end of the world or humanity if temperatures blow past the 1.5 limit, but it will be quite bad, scientists said. Past U.N. studies show massive changes to Earth’s ecosystem are more likely to kick in between 1.5 and 2 degrees Celsius of warming, including eventual loss of the planet’s coral reefs, Arctic sea ice, species of plants and animals — along with nastier extreme weather events that kill people.

Taylor Swift fans wait for the doors of Nilton Santos Olympic stadium to open for her Eras Tour concert amid a heat wave in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Nov. 18, 2023. (AP Photo/Silvia Izquierdo)

Last year’s temperature rise was more than just a little jump. It was especially unusual in September, said study co-author Sonia Seneviratne, head of land-climate dynamics at ETH Zurich, a Swiss university.

The year was within the range of what was predicted, albeit it was at the upper edge of the range, Seneviratne said.

“Acceleration if it were to happen would be even worse, like hitting a global tipping point, it would be probably the worst scenario,” Seneviratne said. “But what is happening is already extremely bad and it is having major impacts already now. We are in the middle of a crisis.”

University of Michigan environment dean Jonathan Overpeck and Berkeley Earth climate scientist Zeke Hausfather, neither of whom were part of the study, said they still see acceleration. Hausfather pointed out the rate of warming is considerably higher than 0.18 degrees Celsius (0.32 Fahrenheit) per decade of warming that it was between 1970 and 2010.

Scientists had theorized a few explanations for the massive jump in September , which Hausfather called “gobsmacking.” Wednesday’s report didn’t find enough warming from other potential causes. The report said the reduction of sulfur pollution from shipping — which had been providing some cooling to the atmosphere — was overwhelmed last year by carbon particles put in the air from Canadian wildfires.

A girl walks holding hands with a man carrying an electric fan on his back on a hot evening in Bucharest, Romania, July 25, 2023. (AP Photo/Andreea Alexandru)

The report also said an undersea volcano that injected massive amounts of heat-trapping water vapor into the atmosphere also spewed cooling particles with both forces pretty much canceling each other out.

Texas Tech climate scientist and chief scientist at the Nature Conservancy Katharine Hayhoe said “the future is in our hands. It’s us — not physics, but humans — who will determine how quickly the world warms and by how much.”

Read more of AP’s climate coverage at http://www.apnews.com/climate-and-environment

Follow Seth Borenstein on X at @borenbears

The Associated Press’ climate and environmental coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org .