Things to do in Bistrița

Enjoy the slow rhythm of the train, listen to the soothing sound of the wheels on the tracks, and admire breathtaking scenery featuring medievalcastles, fortified churches, and well-preserved traditions. Along the way, you'll have the chance to visit iconic Transylvanian landmarks, savor delicious local cuisine, and meet artisans who keep ancient crafts alive. Whether you are passionate about history, nature, or simply looking for an authentic experience, this journey promises unforgettable memories! Drive along the Valley of the Olt River, through the Red Tower Pass the former border between Transylvania and Walachia. Stop at the Cozia monastery, the oldest monastery in Romania. In the afternoon, arrival in Sibiu, the former European Capital of Culture in 2007. City tour in Sibiu with the visit of the Big and Small Rings, the Bridge of Lies, and as well as the Orthodox Cathedral. Arrival in the evening in Bazna. During the morning drive to the largest Saxon church in Transylvania, namely Biertan. Upon arrival in Sighisoara you will make a city tour with the visit of the Clock Tower, the birthplace of Count Dracula, and also the Church upon the Hill. In the afternoon, a carriage ride to the fortified church of Boian.In the morning drive to Turda and visit the salt mine. Afterward, city tour in Cluj-Napoca with the visit of the Orthodox cathedral and the statue of Mathias Corvinus. In the afternoon drive to Sapanta where you will visit the Merry Cemetery. Accommodation in Sighetu Marmatiei.In the morning drive to Viseu de Sus where the steam train is waiting for you. The narrow railway of only 760 mm leads us through a wild and romantic forest area into the Carpathians. In addition to the beautiful landscape, you can admire many bridges and tunnels along the route. The valley of the Vaser River was already used in the 18th century by the Austrian monarchy as a waterway through the dense forests of the Carpathians. You will also enjoy a picnic with drinks included in the mountains. In the afternoon transfer from Viseu to your hotel in Bistrita.During the morning you will proceed to the Sovata resort. The health resort is famous all over the world for its thermal baths. Here you will enjoy a steam train ride as well along the narrow railway from Sovata to Campu Cetatii and back. The trip continues to Predeal via Praid and Homorod.During the morning you will drive to Brasov where you will make a short city tour in the old city center. The next point of interest is the Bran Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle. After a short stop in Sinaia to admire the Peles Castle (exterior visit), the former summer residence of the Romanian Royal Family, you will continue to Bucharest. Afternoon sightseeing in the Romanian capital with the visit of the Patriarchal Church and the Village Museum. In the evening you will enjoy a festive dinner with a folklore program at the “Hanul lui Manuc” restaurant.

To begin this two-day tour, you will be picked up from your hotel in Cluj-Napoca by your guide and start the journey to Bukovina. On your way to Bukovina, you will make a quick stop in Bistrita, the northernmost fortified Transylvanian town. In a short walking tour through the town, you will enjoy the medieval legends and explore its narrow streets. Bukovina is especially famous for its painted monasteries, and over these two days, you will visit the most representative of all seven. During the second part of the day, you will have the chance to visit the most famous painted monastery in the world, Voronet Monastery. The frescoes of the monastery are dominated by intense shades of blue, and the southern wall depicts the best-preserved ‘Last Judgement’ fresco in Romania. The monastery was built in 1488 by Prince Stephen the Great in order to commemorate one of his victories against the Ottoman Empire. Enjoy a traditional dinner with a folkloric dance show at a nearby restaurant then stay overnight in Gura Humorului. You will start the day with a short drive to Humor Monastery, a small cross-shaped church built in 1530, dedicated to the Dormition of Virgin. Red hues dominate the exterior frescoes showing scenes from the lives of saints, as well as significant moments from the locals’ lives, such as the wars with the Turks. Moldovita Monastery is the next stop on your itinerary. The highlight of the day is Transrarau Highway. With a total length of 28 kilometers (17 miles), it is known as the Treasury Road. You will be amazed by its curves and the scenery. It goes up to 1400 meters in altitude, and from there you will have a hike through the Rarau Mountains. You will have the chance to see the rock formations that emerged from the ground millions of years ago in order to give birth to these mountains. After you have filled your lungs with fresh air it is time for lunch at a fish farm.