Day 1 – After arriving into Bucharest you’ll be collected at the airport by our locally registered tour guide. After checking in to your hotel you’ll then be taken to the Old Town to meander the narrow streets and eat at a traditional restaurant. (D)

Day 2 – In the morning you’ll head off to visit the world’s second largest building, the Palace of Parliament. After your tour you’ll head off through the mountains to the resort of Sinaia in the Prahova Valley for lunch. After lunch there will be a visit to Peles Castle, the spectacular former Royal residence. The day will end in the medieval city of Brasov. (B,L)

Day 3 – In the morning we’ll have a walking tour of the medieval centre of Brasov. The city of Brasov is one of the oldest in Europe, dating from 1235. During the Middle Ages, Brasov was known as a powerful fortress surrounded by high stone walls and defended by bulwarks, towers and other small fortresses. The buildings and the streets in the historical centre still preserve a medieval note. Afternoon at your leisure. Dinner in a local restaurant arranged in the cellar of an old building. (B,D)

Day 4 – You’ll visit Libearty the following morning, a bear sanctuary housing over 70 rescued bears. You’ll then carry on to the town of Bran and its legendary castle, often referred to as Dracula’s Castle. In the afternoon you’ll return to Brasov to enjoy the many bars and restaurants at your leisure. (B)

Day 5 – You’ll spend the morning enjoying some free time in Brasov before travelling to Viscri, an old village where time has stood still. Well preserved old houses, traditions and a tranquil way of life are all present here. Visit the UNESCO listed fortified church, local craftsmen at work and enjoy the afternoon and evening experiencing the life of a Transylvanian village. (B,D)

Day 6 – First stop at Saschiz village, which it is famous for its natural home-made jams, here you’ll visit and taste jam in a local producer’s shop.

After lunch you’ll be off on the road up to Sighisoara, the birthplace of Vlad Tepes, The Impaler, the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula. The 12^th century citadel is listed as a World Heritage Site and is a colourful maze with a myriad of winding, cobbled streets In the evening we’ll have a plum/pear brandy and wine tasting in a small family cellar.. (B)

Day 7 – You’ll spend the day enjoying free time in Sighisoara, with your guide on hand to offer suggestions and assistance to ensure you make the most of your time. (B)

Day 8 – On your final day you’ll make the journey back to Bucharest and your flight back home, bidding a sad farewell to this beautiful and enchanting land. (B)

This tour itinerary travels along with the Total Transylvania tour group until Day 8 where the Essential tour returns to Bucharest and the Total tour continues.