Transylvanian Christmas Markets

December 2022

7 days from £1,095pp

Join us for a Christmas market experience like no other, as we travel deep into the heart of Transylvania.

Train journey from Bucharest to Sinaia and from Sibiu to Calimanesti
Guided walking tour of Bucharest, Sinaia, Brasov, Sighisoara & Sibiu
Guided walking tour of & entrance to Peles Castle
Entrance, guided tour and a three-course lunch at Bran Castle
Entrance to the Sighisoara Clock Tower and Church on the Hill
Cozia Monastery, Black Church, Brasov & Parliament Palace entrance

Description
Itinerary
What's Included
Travel Options
Dates & Prices

Join us for a Christmas market experience like no other, as we travel deep into the heart of Transylvania. On this festive break not only will you enjoy two spectacular, rail journeys but you will also see some of Romania’s most famous sites, including the fictional home of the infamous ‘Count Dracula’. Intertwined with the history and architecture you will find the glistening lights of the many magical market stalls, selling festive goodies and tasty treats – surely there’s no better way to get into the festive spirt?

Day 1: London - Bucharest
Today we fly to Bucharest where our local guide will meet us at the airport and transfer us to our hotel. We will then head out on an introductory walking tour of Bucharest followed by time to take in the Christmas Markets. Located right in the centre of Constitution Square with Parliament Palace as its backdrop, you’ll find over 100 decorated wooden stalls offering handicrafts, mulled wine, baked goods, Christmas decorations and traditional specialities. Tonight, we will enjoy a welcome dinner accompanied by a folklore performance at a historic restaurant within Bucharest Old Town.
Day 2: Bucharest – Sinaia - Brasov
After breakfast we’ll journey by train from Bucharest to the mountain resort of Sinaia alighting at the Royal Train Station, which is also a stop for the famous Orient Express. We’ll explore Sinaia on foot with a guided tour before visiting Peles Castle. This masterpiece of German new-Renaissance architecture is undoubtedly one of the most stunning castles in Europe. Commissioned by King Carol I in 1873, it served as the summer residence of the royal family until 1947. After our tour of Peles Castle we will travel to Brasov where we’ll enjoy dinner at the hotel.
Day 3: Brasov – Bran Castle - Brasov
After breakfast we’ll enjoy a guided walking tour of Brasov; known as the ‘Crown of Transylvania’. We’ll explore the beautiful centre starting in the Council Square built by the Saxons. Entrance is included to one of the city’s main highlights; the Black Church. One of Romania’s leading gothic churches and largest between Vienna and Istanbul, the Black Church got its name after the Greater Fire in 1689. Our tour will also include a stop by Rope Street, the narrowest street in Europe, and conclude back at the Council Square where the Brasov Christmas Markets await us. After some free time to explore the Christmas Markets we’ll make our way to Bran Castle, the setting for Bram Stoker’s ‘Dracula’. Upon arrival we’ll enjoy a delicious three-course lunch in Queen Marie’s Tea House before experiencing a guided tour. We’ll return to Brasov for the evening.
Day 4: Brasov – Sighisoara - Sibiu
Today we’re heading for Sighisoara one of the world’s only medieval fortresses which is still inhabited. Founded by the Transylvanian Saxons and listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site, we’ll take a guided walking tour starting at the the Clock Tower, which we have included entrance to. We’ll also visit the fictional birthplace of ‘Count Dracula’ and the Church on the Hill. We’ll then drive onto Sibiu, one of the largest cities in Transylvania, where we’ll enjoy dinner this evening.
Day 5: Sibiu – Sibiel - Sibiu
After breakfast we will experience the heart of Sibiu on a guided walking tour through the Old Town. There are three famous squares to the Old Town; Grand Square, Small Square and Huet Square. We’ll pass museums, the Town Hall and its tower, the Catholic Church, Luxemburg House and much more. At the end of the tour there will be some free time to enjoy the Sibiu Christmas Markets. Not only are these the largest Christmas Markets in Romania, but they have also been voted the most beautiful! Situated in the Grand Square surrounded by Baroque architecture, there are plenty of brightly coloured stalls selling a variety of hand-crafted gifts and edible goods. This evening we’ll venture to the nearby village of Sibiel where we will enjoy a traditional dinner, served by the local people, accompanied by homemade wine and brandy.
Day 6: Sibiu – Calimanesti – Bucharest
We’ll start the day at Sibiu train station where we will start our day with a train journey from Sibiu along the scenic route to Calimanesti. Upon arrival we will visit the Cozia Monastery, housing the tomb of Mircea the Elder, considered to be one of the most valuable monuments of national medieval art and architecture in Romania. Continuing our journey will head to Bucharest, where we will enjoy a farewell dinner in a local restaurant.
Day 7: Bucharest - London
After breakfast we include one final visit to Parliament Palace, before our tour comes to an end. This grand palace is the seat of the Romanian Parliament and is also the second largest administrative building in the world, after the Pentagon. With a small amount of free time you’ll have the chance to partake in some last-minute Christmas shopping. We will then be transferred by coach to Bucharest Airport for our return flight to London.

Fly from London Heathrow

Return flights from London Heathrow are included in our package on our specific arrival and departure dates plus one item of checked in luggage, per person.

Transfers will also be included on our specific arrival and departure dates to take you to your holiday destination. If you choose to arrive or depart on a different day, there may be an additional supplement charged to cover your transfer costs.

Your Accommodation

Hotel Kronwell, Brasov (or similar)

★★★★

The four star Hotel Kronwell features a stylish à la carte restaurant, state-of-the art facilities including an indoor pool, and free Wi-Fi.

Room Facilities & Amenities

En Suite bathroom
Air conditioning
Tea and coffee machine
Bathrobe and slippers
Mini bar

Hotel Union Plaza, Bucharest or similar

★★★★

Ideally located, the four star Hotel Union Plaza is situated near to all of Bucharest’s major attractions. The hotel features a restaurant and Sky Bar, offering stunning views of the city.

Room Facilities & Amenities

En suite bathroom
Air-conditioning
Wi-Fi
TV

Hotel Continental Forum, Sibiu or similar

Just a three-minute walk from the Main Square, this four star hotel is ideally located in the heart of Sibiu’s centre. The building dates back to 1912 but boasts modern interiors, a restaurant, café and a bar.