Romania Discovery: Castles, Medieval Towns and Cultural Heritage

Your journey through Romania begins with a private transfer Bucharest International Airport to your centrally located hotel. As you travel into the heart of the capital, you will get your first impressions of the city’s lively boulevards, elegant Belle Époque architecture and the dynamic energy that defines modern Bucharest. After check-in, the remainder of the day is entirely free for your own exploration. You may wish to take a relaxed walk through the Old Town (Lipscani District), where restored façades, cobbled streets and lively cafés create a charming introduction to the city. Stroll past historic landmarks such as Stavropoleos Church or wander toward University Square, a central hub surrounded by beautiful buildings and green spaces. For those interested in Romania’s rich modern history, the exterior of the Palace of the Parliament offers an impressive first glimpse of one of the world’s largest administrative buildings. Alternatively, simply unwind after your arrival and enjoy a quiet evening at your own pace. Bucharest combines old-world charm with a creative, youthful feel, making it easy to settle in and find a corner of the city that resonates with your interests.

This morning your exploration of Bucharest begins with a guided Hidden Markets Walking Tour, offering a delicious and immersive introduction to the city’s culinary traditions and neighbourhood culture. Your tour starts at 10:00 am, meeting your guide on the stairs of the National Theatre at the main entrance on Nicolae Bălcescu 2. From here, enjoy an engaging introduction to Bucharest’s history before strolling through Strada Batiștei, once known as the city’s own “St Germain,” where elegant façades and the former American Embassy reveal layers of forgotten stories. Continue into the characterful Armenian Quarter, a district rich in both European and Ottoman architectural influences. Your guide shares anecdotes about its heritage before you hop aboard a local tram for a short ride into Obor Market, the largest peasant market in Bucharest and the heart of the city’s food culture. Here the tastings begin: a welcoming shot of țuică (Romanian brandy), followed by a generous platter of local cheeses, cured meats, dips, fresh vegetables and homemade bread. Sample beloved favourites such as mici with mustard, paired with cold beer, and explore a selection of regional cheeses before finishing with a warm Wallachian doughnut. With small-group touring, this experience offers personalised attention and a relaxed introduction to Bucharest’s flavours, traditions and everyday life.