Covinnus Travel

Toursof Romania & Eastern Europe www.covinnus.com

Our storyCovinnus Travel is a tour operator based Covinnus tours are not standard programs.in Bucharest, Romania and initially We carefully combine all the elements in afounded by three friends with a common complete travel experience meant to givepassion: travel & tourism. We all have you a feeling of belonging to the placesdifferent backgrounds and expertise, you visit. We currently operate privatean extensive experience in operating tours and small group tours in Romaniatours, and we really love what we do, i.e. and other Eastern European countries.showing people from around the world We have served hundreds of touriststhe wonders of Eastern Europe and the from all over the world and discoveredBalkans. together the local culture and the peopleWe believe in a better world, and travelling of Eastern Europe.can build the bridges needed to change We are very proud to have received inthe world. We are proud of our origins Romania the film crew from Raw Traveland we invite you to discover our lands, Show, a travel program broadcastcultures and people. We also believe in throughout the United States andprofessionalism, respect, kindness, and internationally, but also Rick Steves staffof course, fun. during their journey to our country.www.covinnus.com Recomended onwww.facebook.com/covinnusplus.google.com/u/0/+Covinnus/postswww.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g294458-d7249762-Reviews-Covinnus_Travel-Bucharest.htmlwww.twitter.com/covinnuswww.youtube.com/user/CovinnusTravelwww.instagram.com/covinnus/

IndexRomania - the new travel destination 2 Why travel to Eastern Europe now? 20in Europe Highlights of Romania and 22Best of Romania Tour 4 Bulgaria tourInteresting facts about Romania 8 Bucharest to Budapest Tour 26Authentic Transylvania Tour 10 Budapest to Sofia Tour 30Vampires, Dracula and Transylvania 14 Romania Photo Tour 34In search of Dracula Tour 16

Romania - the new travel destinationin Europe“For someone who has never been here, Romania is Wallachia, the Southern part of the country, is the regionmostly known for the performances of sport players of Bucharest, The Little Paris, capital city of Romania.who distinguished themselves through the years. Hagi Here you will also find great historical objectives, oldand Nadia Comaneci are names mentioned almost cities, impressive castles, natural reservations andinvoluntarily by a foreigner every time Romania is famous ski resorts.specified. Well, to find out the truth, we definitely have Let’s not forget about Transylvania, probably the mostto go deeper. So, if you are ready for the adventure, you famous region of Romania. Here you will understandhave come to the right place. why His Highness, Prince Charles of Wales fell inRomania is a country of eternal beauty, enhanced by the love with these landscapes and struggles to promoteimpressive mountains of the Carpathians, the Black Sea Romania abroad. The fortified churches, the Saxonand the famous Danube River. villages, medieval citadels and cities, traditionalThe cultural objectives, many integrated on the craftsmen, natural sceneries and, of course, Dracula,UNESCO World Heritage are the legacy of a unique are just a small part of the Transylvanian experience.2 history with a millennial basis both of Latin origin and of Danube Delta is probably the most important andother medieval European nations. sensitive natural reservation, a forever young land,So, walk with us on the paths of Romania and discover where you will understand the fragility and beauty ofthe country with its beautiful people. nature.In Maramures you will understand why the saying:” All the tourist programs that you are about to “read”Romania starts where the asphalt ends!”. It is said that will provide you systematic information about thehere you’ll find the heart of the rural Romania with lovely unique places and traditions, the Romanian lifestyle andvillages where the inhabitants keep alive the traditions superstitions in the historical and cultural context thatpassed on from generation to generation. made them possible.Continue with Bucovina, where you will have the Do not forget, that in order to have a 100% Romanianchance to visit the unique painted monasteries erected experience, you have to make some Romanian friends.in the middle of the nature and taste the delicious Coming here and not getting to know the hospitable andtraditional dishes respecting the Romanian saying:” The kind people living here, is like eating a very famous dishbest vegetable is...meat!”. which was prepared without salt and pepper. The people are the heart of these lands, people, that under thisIn Moldova, you will enjoy visiting impressive and wind of changes, are trying to keep a balance betweenfamous wine cellars along with charming mansions and old and new, tradition and modernization. But all thesemedieval fortresses. are just colourful words. For a unique experience, you should come here and see for yourselves. You will be surprised for sure!”

3 Peles castle, Romania

Best of Romania Tour UNESCO Monuments: 7 Type: shared, cultural Tour description: Duration: 11 days/ 10 nights Best of Romania Tour is designed for those who Distance: 1700km / 1056mi want to visit the most famous tourist attractions of Country: Romania Romania. In only 11 days this shared tour of Romania Accommodation: 4-star hotels and B&Bs will give the chance of visiting cities like Bucharest or Cluj Napoca, medieval citadels of Transylvania For the prices, please check our Pricing Page such as Sibiu, Sighisoara or Brasov, rural areas from provided by your travel agent Maramures and Bucovina, Hungarian villages, the castles of Bran or Peles, UNESCO sites and many The price includes: others. - Airport pick-up and drop-off - Transport by modern coach Main highlights of the trip: - Accommodation for 10 nights in 4-star Bucharest – The Parliament, The Village Museum and The Old Town, Sibiu old town, Alba Iulia medieval hotels and B&Bs citadel, Cluj Napoca old town, Maramures traditional - Full Board region, the wooden churches of Maramures the - Licensed English-speaking tour guide Painted Monasteries of Bucovina, the Red Lake, - Entrance fees to sites included in the Sighisoara medieval citadel, Viscri fortified church,4 Brasov, Prejmer fortified church, Bran (Dracula) program Castle, Peles Castle, off the beaten paths surprise attractions. The price does not include: - Flight ticket - Hotel extras (telephone, mini bar, etc) - Drinks (other than water) - Photographing or filming fees at the visited sites - Tips - Travel insurance - Personal expenses

5 Bran Castle, Romania

Itinerary Day 1: Bucharest Day 5: Cluj Napoca – Surdesti – Sapanta – Sighetu Marmatiei Pick up from the airport and transfer to your hotel in Bucharest. (230 km) Time at leisure. • Visit Surdesti wooden church (UNESCO Heritage) Dinner and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bucharest. • Visit Sapanta Merry Cemetery (unique in the world) • Short panoramic tour of Sighetu Marmatiei Day 2: Full Day Bucharest City Tour Full board and accommodation at 3 or 4 star hotel in Sighetu • Panoramic tour of Bucharest Marmatiei. • Visit the Palace of the Parliament • Visit the Village Museum Day 6: Sighetu Marmatiei – Barsana – Bistrita (150 km) • Walking tour in the Revolution Square and in Bucharest • Visit Sighet Memorial, a notorious former communist prison6 Old Town • Visit a local traditional market Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bucharest. • Visit a local traditional distillery and whirlpool • Visit Barsana convent, a typical wooden worship construction Day 3: Bucharest – Curtea de Arges – Sibiu (290 km) • Visit Curtea de Arges Monastery from the area • Short walking tour in Sibiu Old Town (The Small Square, • Short walking tour in Bistrita Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bistrita. the Large Square, the Liars Bridge, the Evangelic Church, the Council Tower) Day 7: Bistrita -– Moldovita – Sucevita – Marginea – Gura Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Sibiu. Humorului (250 km) • Visit Moldovita painted monastery (UNESCO Heritage) Day 4: Sibiu – Alba Iulia – Cluj Napoca (180 km) • Visit Sucevita painted monastery (UNESCO Heritage) • Visit Alba Iulia Carolina Medieval citadel, the Orthodox • Visit Marginea black pottery workshop • Visit Voronet painted monastery (UNESCO Heritage) Cathedral and the Roman-Catholic Cathedral Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Gura Humorului. • Short walking tour in Cluj Napoca city Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Cluj Napoca.

Day 8: Gura Humorului – Bicaz - Sighisoara (320 km) Brasov medieval city, Romania.• Scenic drive along Bicaz Gorge• Short stop at the Red Lake (unique in Romania) 7• Short walking tour in Sighisoara Medieval citadel (UNESCO Heritage)Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Sighisoara.Day 9: Sighisoara – Viscri - Bran – Brasov (200 km)• Visit Viscri fortified church and the village (UNESCO Heritage)• Visit Bran medieval castle• Short walking tour in Brasov Old TownFull board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Brasov.Day 10: Brasov – Prejmer - Sinaia – Bucharest (150 km)• Visit Prejmer fortified church (UNESCO Heritage)• Visit a local wine cellar and enjoy a sparkling wine tasting• Visit Peles royal castle• Visit Sinaia MonasteryFull board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bucharest.Day 11: BucharestTime at leisure and transfer from your hotel to the airport forthe flight back home.End of the tour.

Interesting factsabout RomaniaDid you know that Romania …… is the 4th largest Orthodox country in the world after … is the first country in continental Europe to have electric public lighting? It happened in Timisoara in 1884. The firstRussia, Ethiopia and Ukraine? city in Europe with electric public light was London.… is the country where Prince Nicolae Mavrogheni (18th … is the country where Nadia Comaneci was born? She wascentury), instead of using horses for his carriage, hadtwo stags with their antlers gilded? His horse, however, the first gymnast to receive a perfect 10.received many titles of nobility. … is the country where the Unitarian Church was founded in… is the country of the richest former athlete? He’s Ion Tiriac, the 16th century?a former tennis player. … is home to 6000 bears? They represent half of Europe’s… is the only country in the world with its former head of the bear population (not including Russia).8 state from WWII still alive? He’s King Michael I, born in 1921. … boasts the largest gold resources in Europe? There is a… boasts the largest Parliament building in the world? controversial plan to exploit the gold resources by using cyanide, but for the moment, the company hasn’t received… boasts the most joyous cemetery in the world? It’s the the necessary permission to proceed. Merry Cemetery located in Sapanta. … boasts the largest salt mine in Europe? It’s Slanic Prahova.… boasts the highest cross located on the summit of amountain? It’s the Heroes’ Cross built in the memory of … is the country where Prince Charles of Great Britain owns three guest houses? He comes to Romania each year.Romanian soldiers who died in the Great War.… is the country where Bela Lugosi was born in 1882? Of … has the fastest internet in Europe, and Bucharest is Hungarian origin, Mr. Lugosi agreed to play the role of the European capital with the fastest average Internet Dracula in 1931. connection (2014)?… is the country where Johnny Weissmuller was born? He … has the first European politician with more than 1 million was one of the fastest swimmers in the ’20s and played likes on Facebook? He’s Klaus Iohannis, the Romanian the film role of Tarzan in the ’30s. president starting with 21st December 2014.… is the country where Bram Stoker, the author of the novel … is the country with the first woman who became a lawyer? Dracula, never traveled to? Her name was Sarmiza Bilcescu and in 1890 she obtained her PhD in Law from the University of Paris.… boasts the tallest statue in Europe. It’s 40m (131ft) high and represents Decebalus, the former Dacian king.… is the first country in the world to inaugurate a commercial oil pump? It was inaugurated in 1854, two years before first one in the United States (Tennessee).

9 Sighisoara citadel, Romania

Authentic UNESCO Monuments: 3 Transylvania Tour Type: shared, cultural Duration: 8 days/ 7 nights Tour description: Distance: 1000km / 625mi Take a dive into the fantastic realm of Transylvania Country: Romania and admire the forgotten villages and the daily rural Accommodation: 4-star hotels and B&Bs life. Visit the medieval towns of Transylvania such as Sibiu, Sighisoara and Brasov. The tour starts in For the prices, please check our Pricing Page Bucharest where you’ll spend the first night. For provided by your travel agent the rest of the tour, beside Sibiu, you’ll experience several stunning traditional accommodations located The price includes: in wonderful villages. Authentic Transylvania Tour is - Airport pick-up and drop-off a divers tour of Romania. - Transport by modern coach - Accommodation for 7 nights in 4-star Main highlights of the trip: Bucharest – The Parliament, The Village Museum hotels and B&Bs10 and The Old Town, Sibiu old town, Alba Iulia - Full Board medieval citadel, Cluj Napoca old town, Sighisoara - Licensed English-speaking tour guide medieval citadel, Brasov, Prejmer fortified church, - Entrance fees to sites included in the Bran (Dracula) Castle, Peles Castle, off the beaten paths surprise attractions program The price does not include: - Flight ticket - Hotel extras (telephone, mini bar, etc) - Drinks (other than water) - Photographing or filming fees at the visited sites - Tips - Travel insurance - Personal expenses

11 Sibiu medieval city, Romania

Itinerary Day 1: Bucharest Day 5: Cluj Napoca – Turda – Biertan – Sighisoara Pick up from the airport and transfer to your hotel in Bucharest. (200 km) Time at leisure. • Visit Turda Salt Mine Dinner and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bucharest. • Visit Biertan fortified church (UNESCO fortified church) • Short walking tour in Sighisoara medieval citadel (UNESCO Day 2: Full Day Bucharest City Tour • Panoramic tour of Bucharest Heritage) • Visit the Palace of the Parliament Full board and accommodation at a 3 or 4 star hotel in Sighisoara. • Visit the Village Museum • Walking tour in the Revolution Square and in Bucharest Day 6: Sighisoara – Bran – Brasov (200 km) • Visit Bran medieval castle Old Town • Short walking tour in Brasov downtown12 Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bucharest. Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Brasov. Day 3: Bucharest – Curtea Day 7: Brasov – Prejmer – Sinaia – Bucharest (200 km) de Arges – Sibiu (290 km) • Visit Prejmer fortified church • Visit Curtea de Arges Monastery • Visit Sinaia Monastery • Short walking tour in Sibiu Old Town (The Small Square, • Visit Peles castle Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bucharest. the Large Square, the Liars Bridge, the Evangelic Church, the Council Tower) Day 8: Bucharest Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Sibiu. Time at leisure and transfer from your hotel to the airport for the flight back home. Day 4: Sibiu – Hunedoara - Alba Iulia – Cluj Napoca End of the tour. (290 km) • Visit Huniazi medieval castle • Visit Alba Iulia Carolina Medieval citadel, the Orthodox Cathedral and the Roman-Catholic Cathedral • Short walking tour in Cluj Napoca city Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Cluj Napoca.

13 Viscri fortified church, Romania

14 Sighisoara citadel, Romania

Vampires, Draculaand TransylvaniaSince it was written in 1897, Dracula has become the You can start with Sighisoara and visit the house where 15most influential vampire book, with movie directors, it seems that Vlad Tepes was born. Other placesnovelists, and playwrights all inspired by Stoker’s vision related to this legend are: the Old Princely Court ofof the vampire. The novel presents Jonathan Harker, Targoviste where Vlad Tepes ruled Wallachia sevena young London lawyer, who travels to Transylvania years, the Old Princely Court of Bucharest where oneto help a rich nobleman, Count Dracula, purchase can visit the remains of his palace built in the 14than estate in England. Dracula wants to emigrate to and 15th centuries and expanded by Vlad Tepes andEngland, and wants Harker to help him arrange the others, and Poienari Fortress, considered to be the reallegal details. At first, the young Harker is impressed by Dracula’s Castle and located at the top of a hill after aDracula’s politeness, but is soon creeped-out by the climb of 1480 steps. We suggest to be sure you carryCount’s strange ability to communicate with wolves the money for the entrance fees before starting toand by the lack of servants in the Count’s huge castle. climb, otherwise you will have to do down to get it andSoon after, Harker realizes that he is actually a prisoner then climb up again! There is also the city of Brasov,in the castle. where Vlad the Impaler initiated many raids againstWhen, he wrote the novel, Bran Stocker found as the Saxon merchants, and Snagov Monastery, wherea source of inspiration the life and personality of it is said that Vlad is buried. Also, you can overnightVlad the Impaler. Known in the past as Dracula, Vlad in the Golden Crown Hotel in Bistrita (the hotel wherewas a famously cruel prince in medieval times. As Jonathan Harker stayed) or at Dracula Castle Hotel,his nickname suggested, he used to brutally punish built recently in the Borgo Pass and the site mentionedhis enemies and corrupt noblemen by impaling in the novel.them. Even though he was considered a monster by But probably the most famous place related to theforeigners because of his cruelty, back in Wallachia legend of Dracula is Bran Castle. This is a 14th centurywhere he ruled, he was considered a hero fighting for castle built for military and economic purposes. Itshis people and taking care of the poor. medieval appearance, the mystery which seems toNowadays, this legend make more and more tourists surround it and the similarity with the castle describedtravel to Romania in search of Dracula. There are by Stoker in his novel, all make tourists consider it asseveral places that are mentioned in the book that Dracula’s Castle. Thanks to this legend, Bran becamethey want to visit and some others that became the most visited castle in Romania.popular later on. So, if you come to Romania for the And when you visit Transylvania, never forget that:first time and you want to see the places described by “Once again…welcome to my house. Come freely,Stoker in his novel, i.e. the Carpathians, Borgo Pass, go safely, and leave something of the happiness youand Transylvania, and that you want to travel in the bring.” (Bram Stoker, Count Dracula).footsteps of Dracula. Where should you go?

In search of UNESCO Monuments: 4 Dracula Tour Type: shared, cultural, thematic Duration: 10 days/ 9 nights Tour description: Distance: 1 770 km / 1100mi The Dracula Tour follows the history and the Country: Romania legends about Dracula, the infamous character of Accommodation: 4-star hotels and B&Bs Bram Stoker. The tour starts in Bucharest, a city first mentioned in a written document by Dracula For the prices, please check our Pricing Page himself. On the way to Transylvania you’ll reach the provided by your travel agent real fortress of Vlad the Impaler and then, passing through Sibiu you’ll see many other place related to The price includes: him such as the Corvin Castle, the medieval town - Airport pick-up and drop-off of Sighisoara, his birth place, the Borgo Pass or the - Transport by modern coach Bran Castle, the most visited tourist attraction of - Accommodation for 9 nights in 4-star Romania. hotels and B&Bs Main highlights of the trip: - Full Board Bucharest – The Parliament, The Village Museum - Licensed English-speaking tour guide and The Old Town, Old Princely Court of Targoviste, - Entrance fees to sites included in the16 Poienari fortress, Sibiu old town, Huniazi medieval castle, Alba Iulia medieval citadel, Cluj Napoca old program town, Bistrita Old Town, Borgo Pass, Sighisoara medieval citadel, Viscri fortified church, Brasov, The price does not include: Prejmer and Biertan fortified church, Bran (Dracula) - Flight ticket Castle, Peles Castle, Rasnov fortress and Snagov - Hotel extras (telephone, mini bar, etc) Monastery. - Drinks (other than water) - Photographing or filming fees at the visited sites - Tips - Travel insurance - Personal expenses

17 Poienari medieval fortress, Romania

Itinerary Day 1: Bucharest Day 4: Sibiu – Hunedoara - Alba Iulia – Cluj Napoca (300 km) Pick up from the airport and transfer to your hotel in Bucharest. • Visit Huniazi medieval castle Time at leisure. • Visit Alba Iulia Carolina Medieval citadel, the Orthodox Dinner and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bucharest. Cathedral and the Roman-Catholic Cathedral Day 2: Full Day Bucharest City Tour • Time at your leisure in the evening In Cluj Napoca. • Panoramic tour of Bucharest Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Cluj Napoca. • Visit the Palace of the Parliament Day 5: Cluj Napoca – Bistrita – Borgo Pass (120 km) • Visit the Village Museum • Short walking tour in Cluj Napoca18 • Walking tour in the Revolution Square and in Bucharest • Visit the Borgo Pass • Short walking tour in Bistrita Old Town Old Town Full board and accommodation at 4 star hotel in Bistrita. Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bucharest. Day 6: Bistrita – Biertan – Sighisoara (200 km) Day 3: Bucharest – Targoviste – Poienari - Sibiu (361 km) • Visit Biertan fortified church (UNESCO Heritage) • Visit the Old Princely Court from Targoviste • Short walking tour in Sighisoara medieval citadel (UNESCO • Visit the ruins of Poienari fortress • Short evening walking tour in Sibiu Old Town (The Small Heritage) • Visit Vlad Dracul House Square, the Large Square, the Liars Bridge, the Evangelic Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Sighisoara. Church, the Council Tower) Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Sibiu. Day 7: Sighisoara – Viscri – Brasov (150 km) • Visit Viscri fortified church and village (UNESCO Heritage) • Short walking in Brasov Down Town. • Visit the Black Church and cable car ride Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Brasov.

Day 8: Brasov – Rasnov – Bran – Brasov (60 km) Snagov Monastery, Romania• Visit Rasnov medieval citadel• Visit Bran Dracula’s castle 19Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Brasov.Day 9: Brasov – Sinaia – Snagov - Bucharest (210 km)• Visit Peles Royal castle• Visit Sinaia Monastery• Visit Snagov MonasteryFull board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bucharest.Day 10: BucharestTime at your leisure and transfer from your hotel to the airportfor the flight back home.End of the tour.

Why travel painting, sculpture or perhaps most importantly, local cuisineto Eastern Europe? with dishes and drinks that defy any restaurant or supermarket in the West, the true spirit of this area lies in the work of the people here. 6. For the moment, Eastern Europe is not so westernized. This thing gives a special personalized touch of the servicesThey say “all the roads lead to Rome” or, in our case, to Paris, you will find here, allowing you to discover how people reallyAmsterdam, Berlin, Barcelona and so on. The West remains are without the uniform standardization from the West.a fascinating part of Europe, old and modern, cultural andpicturesque. There are countless reasons why tourists should 7. Dracula - this is probably the most popular reason to visitgo travel there as well as countless reasons why they should Eastern Europe, as Transylvania is waiting for all the tourists eager to find out the truth behind the legend of Dracula.get the bigger picture of Europe and throw an eye over theEast, also. Over here it lies some of the most incredible history,culture, traditions, art, castles, architecture, people…… the list is 8. Communism legacy - a historical and life changingtruly impressive. So, check out why you should include some lesson. The communist regime left a deep mark not only in the people’s life and memories but also in the local culture.countries from this part on your travel bucket list: Each country has its own story and the remains of Soviet style1. It is still cheaper. The services here are offering a good buildings, monuments and statues are also a way of sayingvalue for money. The prices at the restaurants, the hotels and their story.museum, even transportation and taxis, are lower as the onesfrom the West. 9. Local touch of accommodations, restaurants, experiences, with no so many standardized services.20 2. Warm and friendly people. The East Europeans are Imagine turning back time and experience the lifestyle of theamong the most hospitable people in the world, some of them local people the way it used to be many years ago. Eithereven welcoming you in their homes to taste the traditional it is about charming mansions, remote traditional houses, aristocratic houses or apartments, you will find in these placesdishes and discover their customs. the nowadays comfort and the charming local touch of each3. The food is great! You will find here an interesting mixture country or region.of tastes, each country with its own “flavour”. Also, you will 10. In search of ancestors. There are nowadays manynotice that at the restaurants even though the dishes arecoming a little bit slower, the taste of the food is authentic and tourists getting back to Eastern countries in search of theirnatural. The waiting really worths it!! roots. Jewish people, Americans or Germans who had to leave their lands due to political or social reasons, are returning to their homelands in search of their life story.4. Culture - mixture of several Western and Orientalcultures. The East is located at the crossroads between theOccident and the Orient and that is why you will find a little bit 11. Natural food (the local cuisine), as our parents used tofrom these cultures in this area. cook. In Eastern part of Europe you will find both traditional food as a reminiscent of the glory days of the aristocracy and simple but delicious comfort food for the hard-working5. Craftsmen and souvenirs. Well, actually the craftsmenrepresent the real heart and soul of this area. They beautifully farmers. These authentic dishes reflect the the culinaryand stubbornly defy time choosing to maintain the local diversity of Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Croatia, Poland,traditions through their work. Their passion is transmitted from Romania, Hungary, Slovenia, Serbia, Slovakia, Ukraine,generation to generation and their individual workshops are Republic of Moldova and Russia.unique, “small” universes that are waiting to be discovered And the list may continue. So, indeed, why not travel toby the curious eyes and ears of the tourists. Whether we talkabout: carpentry, tailoring, traditional pottery, embroidery, Eastern Europe… now?

21 The Palace of the Parliament, Budapest, Hungary

Highlights of Romania UNESCO Monuments: 8 and Bulgaria Tour Type: shared, cultural Duration: 13 days/ 12 nights Tour description: Distance: 2200 km / 1367mi Highlights of Romania and Bulgaria Tour takes you Country: Romania, Bulgaria in just 13 days in two important countries of the Accommodation: 4-star hotels and B&Bs Balkans. Romania and Bulgaria, part of Eastern Europe, share many similarities but in the same For the prices, please check our Pricing Page time have their unique traits. During this tour you provided by your travel agent can discover two capitals, Bucharest and Sofia, two different languages, great historical regions such as The price includes: Transylvania or Maramures, beautiful medieval cities - Airport pick-up and drop-off such as Sibiu, Sighisora, Veliko Tarnovo or Plovdiv - Transport by modern coach and many other famous tourist landmarks. - Accommodation for 12 nights in 4-star Main highlights of the trip: hotels and B&Bs Bucharest – The Parliament, The Village Museum - Full Board and The Old Town, Sibiu old town, Alba Iulia - Licensed English-speaking tour guide medieval citadel, Cluj Napoca old town, Maramures - Entrance fees to sites included in the22 traditional region, the wooden churches of Maramures the Painted Monasteries of Bucovina, the program Red Lake, Sighisoara medieval citadel, Viscri fortified church, Brasov, Prejmer fortified church, Bran The price does not include: (Dracula) Castle, Peles Castle, Ivanovo Churches, - Flight ticket Veliko Tarnovo medieval city, Plovdiv, Sofia and off - Hotel extras (telephone, mini bar, etc) the beaten paths surprise attractions. - Drinks (other than water) - Photographing or filming fees at the visited sites - Tips - Travel insurance - Personal expenses

23 Merry Cemetery, Romania

Itinerary Day 1: Bucharest Day 6: Sighetu Marmatiei – Barsana – Bistrita (150 km) Pick up from the airport and transfer to your hotel in Bucharest. • Visit Sighet Memorial Time at leisure. • Visit a local traditional market Dinner and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bucharest. • Visit a local traditional distillery and whirpool • Visit Barsana convent Day 2: Full Day Bucharest City Tour • Short walking tour in Bistrita • Panoramic tour of Bucharest Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bistrita. • Visit the Palace of the Parliament • Visit the Village Museum Day 7: Bistrita – Moldovita – Sucevita – Marginea – Gura • Walking tour in the Revolution Square and in Bucharest Old Humorului (250 km) • Visit Moldovita painted monastery (UNESCO Heritage) Town • Visit Sucevita painted monastery (UNESCO Heritage) Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bucharest. • Visit Marginea black pottery workshop • Visit Voronet painted monastery (UNESCO Heritage) Day 3: Bucharest – Curtea de Arges – Sibiu (290 km) Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Gura Humorului.24 • Visit Curtea de Arges Monastery Day 8: Gura Humorului – Bicaz - Sighisoara (320 km) • Short walking tour in Sibiu Old Town (The Small Square, the • Scenic drive along Bicaz Gorge Large Square, the Liars Bridge, the Evangelic Church, the • Short stop at the Red Lake (unique in Romania) Council Tower) • Short walking tour in Sighisoara Medieval citadel (UNESCO Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Sibiu. Heritage) Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Sighisoara. Day 4: Sibiu – Alba Iulia – Cluj Napoca (180 km) • Visit Alba Iulia Carolina Medieval citadel, the Orthodox Day 9: Sighisoara – Viscri - Bran – Brasov (200 km) • Visit Viscri fortified church and the village (UNESCO Heritage) Cathedral and the Roman-Catholic Cathedral • Visit Bran medieval castle • Short walking tour in Cluj Napoca city • Short walking tour in Brasov Old Town Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Cluj Napoca. Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Brasov. Day 5: Cluj Napoca – Surdesti – Sapanta – Sighetu Marmatiei (230 km) • Visit Surdesti wooden church (UNESCO Heritage) • Visit Sapanta Merry Cemetery (unique in the world) • Short panoramic tour of Sighetu Marmatiei Full board and accommodation at 4 star hotel in Sighetu Marmatiei.

Day 10: Brasov – Prejmer - Sinaia – Bucharest (150 km) Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria• Visit Prejmer fortified church (UNESCO Heritage)• Visit a local wine cellar and enjoy a sparkling wine tasting 25• Visit Peles royal castle• Visit Sinaia MonasteryFull board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bucharest.Day 10: Bucharest (RO) – Ruse (BG) – Veliko Tarnovo (200 km)• Visit Ivanovo Churches (UNESCO Heritage)• Short walking tour in Veliko Tarnovo and visit Tsaverets medieval fortressFull board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Veliko Tarnovo.Day 11: Veliko Tarnovo – Plovdiv (250 km)• Visit Etar Village Museum• Shipka Pass• Short walking tour in Plovdiv and visit the Ancient Roman AmphitheatreFull board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Plovdiv.Day 12: Plovdiv – Sofia (160 km)• Panoramic and walking tour in Sofia• Time at your leisureFull board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Sofia.Day 13: SofiaTransfer from your hotel to the airport for the flight back home.End of the tour.

Bucharest to UNESCO Monuments: 5 Budapest Tour Type: shared, cultural Duration: 11 days/ 10 nights Tour description: Distance: 1600 km / 994mi The “Bucharest-Budapest Tour” crosses two Country: Romania, Hungary countries, Romania and Hungary. It starts in the vivid Accommodation: 4-star hotels and B&Bs city of Bucharest, crosses the Carpathian Mountains into the exotic Transylvania where you’ll discover For the prices, please check our Pricing Page forgotten villages, well-preserved medieval towns provided by your travel agent and terrifying legends. On the way, you’ll experience the rural life of Maramures, while in Hungary The price includes: you’ll admire the medieval town of Eger and the - Airport pick-up and drop-off magnificent city of Budapest. - Transport by modern coach - Accommodation for 10 nights in 4-star Main highlights of the trip: Bucharest – The Parliament, The Village Museum hotels and B&Bs and The Old Town, Sibiu old town, Alba Iulia - Full Board medieval citadel, Cluj Napoca old town, Maramures - Licensed English-speaking tour guide26 traditional region, the wooden churches of - Entrance fees to sites included in the Maramures, Sighisoara medieval citadel, Biertan fortified church, Brasov, Prejmer fortified church, program Bran (Dracula) Castle, Peles Castle, Rasnov fortress, Budapest - Matthias Church and the Fishermen The price does not include: Bastion, Hungarian Parliament Palace, Egri medieval - Flight ticket fortress, Debrecen. - Hotel extras (telephone, mini bar, etc) - Drinks (other than water) - Photographing or filming fees at the visited sites - Tips - Travel insurance - Personal expenses

27 Bucharest Downtown, Romania

Itinerary Day 1: Bucharest (RO) Day 5: Brasov – Sighisoara – Biertan – Sibiu (230 km) Pick up from the airport and transfer to your hotel in Bucharest. • Short walking tour in Sighisoara medieval citadel (UNESCO Time at leisure. Dinner and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bucharest. Heritage) • Visit Biertan fortified church (UNESCO Heritage) Day 2: Full Day Bucharest City Tour • Short walking tour in Sibiu old town • Panoramic tour of Bucharest Full board and accommodation at 4 star hotel in Sibiu. • Visit the Palace of the Parliament • Visit the Village Museum Day 6: Sibiu – Alba Iulia – Turda – Cluj Napoca • Walking tour in the Revolution Square and in Bucharest (200 km) • Visit Alba Iulia Carolina medieval fortress, the Orthodox Old Town Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bucharest. Cathedral and the Roman-Catholic Cathedral28 • Visit Turda salt mine Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Cluj Napoca. Day 3: Bucharest – Sinaia – Rasnov – Brasov (150 km) • Visit Sinaia Monastery Day 7: Cluj Napoca – Surdesti - Sighetu Marmatiei (200 km) • Visit Peles castle • Short walking tour in Cluj Napoca • Visit a local wine cellar and enjoy a sparkling wine tasting • Visit Surdesti wooden church (UNESCO Heritage) • Visit Rasnov medieval fortress • Visit a local traditional distillery and whirlpool Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Brasov. Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Sighetu Marmatiei. Day 4: Brasov – Prejmer – Bran – Brasov (100 km) • Short walking tour in Brasov downtown Day 8: Sighetu Marmatiei – Sapanta – Carei (RO) – Debrecen • Visit Prejmer Fortified Church (UNESCO World Heritage) (HU) (250 km) • Visit Bran medieval castle (Dracula’s castle) • Visit a local traditional market in Sighetu Marmatiei and visit Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Brasov. Sighet Memorial • Visit Sapanta Merry Cemetery (unique in the world) • Visit Carei Castle Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Debrecen.

Budapest, HungaryDay 9: Debrecen - Eger – Budapest (250 km) 29• Time at leisure in Debrecen• Short walking tour in Eger Old Town and visit the Egri medieval fortress• Visit the Town Underground (visit the wine cellar and enjoy a wine tasting)• Time at leisure in BudapestFull board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Budapest.Day 10: Full Day Budapest City Tour• Panoramic tour of Budapest• Short walking tour in Buda and visit Matthias Church and the Fishermen Bastion• Visit the Palace of the Parliament• Cruise dinner on Danube RiverFull board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Budapest.Day 11: BudapestTransfer from your hotel to the airport for the flight back home.End of the tour.

Budapest to UNESCO Monuments: 7 Sofia Tour Type: shared, cultural Duration: 14 days/ 13 nights Tour description: Distance: 1900km / 1181mi The Budapest to Sofia tour crosses three of the Country: Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria most beautiful Eastern European countries, Hungary, Accommodation: 4-star hotels and B&Bs Romania, Bulgaria, and takes you from Budapest, the romantic capital of Hungary, to the surprising city of For the prices, please check our Pricing Page Sofia, Bulgaria. During this 14 day trip you will discover provided by your travel agent unique cities, be pampered in the famous thermal baths from Budapest, taste the delicious local cuisine, The price includes: admire the mighty Danube river (known as the King of - Airport pick-up and drop-off the European rivers) and the breath taking Carpathian - Transport by modern coach Mountains, experience the rural life in charming and - Accommodation for 13 nights in 4-star picturesque villages from Transylvania, get in touch with the local people, visit impressive UNESCO Monuments, hotels and B&Bs listen to long forgotten legends kept inside medieval - Full Board castles and cities, and hear about how life used to be - Licensed English-speaking tour guide behind the Iron Curtain. - Entrance fees to sites included in the30 Main highlights of the trip: Bucharest – The Parliament, The Village Museum program and The Old Town, Sibiu old town, Alba Iulia medieval citadel, Cluj Napoca old town, Maramures traditional The price does not include: region, the wooden churches of Maramures, Sighisoara - Flight ticket medieval citadel, Biertan fortified church, Brasov, - Hotel extras (telephone, mini bar, etc) Prejmer fortified church, Bran (Dracula) Castle, Peles - Drinks (other than water) Castle, Rasnov fortress, Budapest - Matthias Church - Photographing or filming fees at the and the Fishermen Bastion, Hungarian Parliament Palace, Egri medieval fortress, Debrecen, Ivanovo visited sites Churches, Plovdiv, Medieval city of Veliko Tarnovo, - Tips Tsaverets fortress, Sofia. - Travel insurance - Personal expenses

31 Eger, Hungary

Itinerary Day 1: Budapest (HU) Day 5: Sighetu Marmatiei – Surdesti - Cluj Napoca (200 km) Pick up from the airport and transfer to your hotel in • Visit a local traditional market in Sighetu Marmatiei Budapest. • Visit a local traditional distillery and whirlpool Time at leisure. • Visit Surdesti wooden church (UNESCO Heritage) Dinner and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Budapest. • Short walking tour in Cluj Napoca Full board and accommodation at 4 star hotel in Cluj Napoca. Day 2: Full Day Budapest City Tour • Panoramic tour of Budapest Day 6: Cluj Napoca – Turda – Alba Iulia – Sibiu (200 km) • Short walking tour in Buda and visit Matthias Church • Visit Turda salt mine • Visit Alba Iulia Carolina medieval fortress, the Orthodox and the Fishermen Bastion • Visit the Palace of the Parliament Cathedral and the Roman-Catholic Cathedral • Cruise dinner on Danube River • Short walking tour in Sibiu old town Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Sibiu. Budapest. Day 7: Sibiu – Biertan – Sighisoara – Brasov (230 km)32 Day 3: Budapest – Eger - Debrecen (250 km) • Visit Biertan fortified church (UNESCO Heritage) • Short walking tour in Eger Old Town and visit the Egri • Short walking tour in Sighisoara medieval citadel (UNESCO medieval fortress • Visit the Town Underground (visit the wine cellar and Heritage) enjoy a wine tasting) Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Brasov. • Time at leisure in Debrecen Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Day 8: Brasov – Rasnov – Bran – Brasov (100 km) Debrecen. • Short walking tour in Brasov downtown • Visit Rasnov Medieval fortress Day 4: Debrecen (HU) – Carei (RO) – Sapanta – Sighetu • Visit Bran medieval castle (Dracula’s castle) Marmatiei (250 km) Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Brasov. • Visit Carei Castle • Visit Sapanta Merry Cemetery (unique in the world) Day 9: Brasov – Prejmer - Sinaia – Bucharest (150 km) • Short panoramic tour in Sighetu Marmatiei and visit • Visit Prejmer fortified church (UNESCO Heritage) • Visit a local wine cellar and enjoy a sparkling wine tasting Sighet Memorial • Visit Peles royal castle Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Sighetu • Visit Sinaia Monastery Marmatiei. Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bucharest.

Day 10: Bucharest Plovdiv, Bulgaria• Panoramic Tour of Bucharest• Visit the Palace of the Parliament 33• Visit the Village Museum• Walking tour in Bucharest Old Town and the Revolution SquareFull board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel inBucharest.Day 11: Bucharest (RO) – Ruse (BG) – Veliko Tarnovo(200 km)• Visit Ivanovo Churches (UNESCO Heritage)• Short walking tour in Veliko Tarnovo and visit Tsaverets medieval fortressFull board and accommodation at 4 star hotel in VelikoTarnovo.Day 12: Veliko Tarnovo – Plovdiv (250 km)• Walking Visit Etar Village Museum• Shipka Pass• Short walking tour in Plovdiv and visit the Ancient Roman AmphitheatreFull board and accommodation at 4 star hotel in Plovdiv.Day 13: Plovdiv – Sofia (160 km)• Walking tour in Bucharest Old Town and the Revolution Square• Panoramic and walking tour in Sofia• Time at your leisureFull board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Sofia.Day 14: SofiaTransfer from your hotel to the airport for the flight backhome.End of the tour.

Romania Photo Tour Short description: UNESCO Monuments: 7 Type: shared, photo, cultural Romania Photo Tour tries to cover as many photo fields Duration: 14 days/ 13 nights as possible. It will take you through famous tourist Distance: 1800km / 1119mi landmarks of Romania such as Peles and Bran castles, Country: Romania but it will also take you to remote villages where tourists Accommodation: 4-star hotels and B&Bs are rarely seen. You’ll take pictures of people, local Gypsies and Romanians dressed in beautiful traditional For the prices, please check our Pricing Page costumes. You’ll admire stunning sunrises and have the provided by your travel agent chance to capture the real beauty of nature. In major cities, you’ll have fun shooting the street life. It’s going The price includes: to be much easier than you think as your tour guide/ - Airport pick-up and drop-off photographer will ease the communication between - Transport by modern coach34 you and the local people. - Accommodation for 13 nights in 4/3-star Main highlights of the trip: hotels and B&Bs - Full Board Bucharest – The Parliament, The Village Museum - Licensed English-speaking tour guide and The Old Town, Sibiu old town, Alba Iulia medieval - Entrance fees to sites included in the citadel, Cluj Napoca old town, Maramures traditional region and the picturesque villages, the wooden program churches of Maramures, Sighisoara medieval citadel, Biertan fortified church, Brasov, Prejmer fortified church, The price does not include: Bran (Dracula) Castle, Peles Castle, Rasnov fortress, - Flight ticket Transylvanian medieval villages, local workshops. - Hotel extras (telephone, mini bar, etc) - Drinks (other than water) - Photographing or filming fees at the visited sites (if needed) - Tips - Travel insurance - Personal expenses

35 Peasants cart, Romania

Itinerary Day 1: Bucharest Day 6: Sibiu – Alba Iulia – Turda (143 km) Pick up from the airport and transfer to your hotel in • Visit Alba Iulia Carolina medieval fortress, the Orthodox Bucharest. Time at leisure. Cathedral and the Roman-Catholic Cathedral Dinner and accommodation in Bucharest. • Evening photos in remote rural areas from the Carpathian Day 2: Full Day Bucharest City Tour Mountains. • Panoramic tour of Bucharest with stops for photos and Full board and accommodation in a Transylvanian village. walk on the hidden little street to capture the typical life Day 7: Turda – Surdesti – Vadu Izei (216 km) and people in Romania’s capital city • Visit the impressive Turda Salt Mine • Visit the Palace of the Parliament • Visit the wooden church of Surdesti (UNESCO site) • Visit the Village Museum • Evening photo session in the villages of Maramures Full board and accommodation in Bucharest. rural area Day 3: Bucharest – Curtea de Arges – Sibiu (300 km) Full board and accommodation in Vadu Izei.36 • Visit Curtea de Arges Monastery Day 8: Vadu Izei – Sighetu Marmatiei – Sapanta – • Drive along picturesque roads and stop in remote Vadu Izei (60 km) areas with forgotten villages for photos • Visit a local market in Sighetu Marmatiei • Visit the Merry Cemetery from Sapanta (unique in the • Time at leisure in Sibiu Full board and accommodation in Sibiu. world) • Visit Sapanta Peri convent Day 4: Sibiu • Photo tour of a local village in Maramures (admire the old • In the morning, street photography in Sibiu • In the afternoon, drive to the rural area around Sibiu houses, the ancient crafts, and the daily life) Full board and accommodation in Vadu Izei. and capture rural scenes Full board and accommodation in Sibiu. Day 9: Vadu Izei – Barsana – Bistrita – Sighisoara (271 km) • Visit Barsana convent Day 5: Sibiu • Short walking tour in Bistrita old town • Sunrise photo session in the mountain rural area • Panoramic tour of Targu Mures city Full board and accommodation in Sighisoara. around Sibiu • Early evening walk and night time scenes in the city of Sibiu Full board and accommodation in Sibiu. Napoca.

Day 10: Sighisoara – Biertan – Sighisoara (61 km) Gipsy blacksmith, Romania• Morning photo tour in Biertan medieval village• Afternoon walking tour in Sighisoara medieval citadel (UNESCO site)• Late afternoon-early evening photos of SighisoaraFull board and accommodation in Sighisoara.Day 11: Sighisoara – Viscri – Brasov (120 km)• Visit several remote Transylvanian villages, Viscri being one of them• Afternoon walk in Brasov medieval cityFull board and accommodation in Brasov.Day 12: Brasov – Bran – Brasov (60 km)• Early Photo tour in the villages surrounding Brasov• Visit Bran castle• Visit Prejmer fortified church (UNESCO site)Full board and accommodation in Brasov.Day 13: Brasov – Sinaia – Bucharest (175 km)• Visit Peles Royal castle• Visit Sinaia Monastery• Time at your leisure in BucharestFull board and accommodation in Bucharest.Day 14: BucharestTransfer from your hotel to the airport for the flight backhome.End of the tour.

Booking & Info If you need more info regarding our tours or want to start a collaboration with us, feel free to contact us at: [email protected] +40 77 33 19 922 +40 77 22 62 483 See more tourist programs and get to know us on: www.covinnus.comBreb village, Maramures, Romania