More about: 5 Best Day Trips from Bucarest
Bucharest is the capital of Romania and the most visited city in the country, and as such it has some of the most outstanding attractions, but it is also an ideal destination to use as a base from which to discover some of the best places in the surrounding area. From legendary castles to medieval villages, natural wonders and coastal towns, during your trip you will find something for everyone.
Among the best activities and excursions from Bucharest are a trip to Dracula's Castle, visits to Peles and Brasov, tours of the coastal cities of Constanta and Mamaia, a visit to the Slanic Prahova Salt Mine, exploring the beauty of medieval Bulgarian villages, and interacting with brown bears in the Carpathian Mountains surrounding Romania.
1. Excursion to Dracula's Castle, Sinaia and Brasov from Bucharest
One of the best activities you can do in Romania is visit Dracula's Castle from Bucharest. Located in the Bran region, this experience will allow you to enter this iconic medieval building, which safeguards the legend of Count Dracula, inspired by the Romanian prince known as Vlad the Impaler. On these excursions, you can explore the castle's corridors, royal chambers and exhibitions that refer to Bram Stoker's character.
In addition, a short distance from Bran is Peles Castle, in the town of Sinaia, an architectural gem in the heart of the Carpathians. This royal palace, built in the 19th century, is a testament to the opulence of the Romanian monarchy. You can explore its rooms, the armoury and the gardens surrounding the site, which offer a unique insight into aristocratic life in Europe during the Middle Ages.
These excursions usually include a stop in Brasov, a well-preserved medieval town that will captivate you with its Council Square and Black Church, two highlights that reveal the rich history of the region. Also, nearby, Mount Tampa will give you one of the best panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Without a doubt, this is one of the full-day experiences you cannot miss during your visit to Bucharest, even if you plan to visit the city on a short 3-day stay.
Details of interest
- Price: approximately £37 per person.
- Duration: around 12 hours.
2. Excursion to Constanta and Mamaia from Bucharest
If you want to discover the Black Sea from Bucharest, one of the best options is to join a guided tour that will take you to this destination, as well as to Constanța and Mamaia. Constanța is the oldest city in Romania and has a history dating back to the ancient Greek colony of Tomis. A stroll through its old town will reveal traces of its Roman and Byzantine past, including the Great Mosque , which highlights its cultural diversity.
Mamaia, known as the Pearl of the Black Sea, is a coastal stretch that offers a contrast to the history of Constanța. This internationally renowned resort is famous for its golden sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. You can also explore Aqua Magic Park, considered one of the best and most outstanding in Eastern Europe. From the Telegondola Tower, you can enjoy sweeping views of the sea.
These excursions also usually include a stop at the National Museum of History and Archaeology in Constanța, which houses archaeological artefacts that narrate the evolution of the region over the centuries and complement the historical tour of the city, the beauty of Mamaia's beaches and, if you wish, the adrenaline-filled experience of Aqua Magic Park.
Details of interest
- Price: approximately £65 per person.
- Duration: around 10 hours.
3. Excursion to the Slanic Prahova Salt Mine with transfers from Bucharest
The Slanic Prahova Salt Mine is the largest in Europe and is located deep in the Carpathian Mountains. Its history dates back to the 17th century, when the region's mineral wealth was discovered. Since then, it has been a crucial site for salt extraction and one of Romania's economic drivers. On these excursions, you can visit this site, known as the Salt Cathedral.
In this mine, you can explore the corridors and salt chambers that create a unique atmosphere, adorned with sculptures and ornamentation that highlight the natural beauty of the salt. In addition, within this site you will find the Salt Springs Room, where you can discover the purity of the air and learn about the properties of this mineral. Also, if you plan to visit Bucharest during the winter, you can see the effect of humidity on this site, creating different colours and textures on the minerals.
During your visit, you can also explore the Salt Museum, which provides a deeper insight into the history of the region and the importance of salt in Romanian culture. With transfers from Bucharest, this activity offers not only an educational experience but also the opportunity to discover the underground architecture that distinguishes the Slanic Prahova Salt Mine.
Details of interest
- Price: approximately £45 per person.
- Duration: around 7 hours.
4. Excursion to medieval Bulgaria from Bucharest
One of the most notable virtues of Bucharest as a Mediterranean city is that you can use it as a base to visit other nearby places, including destinations in other countries, such as Bulgaria. On these excursions, you can explore the history of the Second Bulgarian Empire, which will take you to Ivanovo, home to rock-hewn churches with frescoes from the 13th and 14th centuries.
In Bulgaria, you can also visit Veliko Tarnovo, the former capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire, home to the Tsarevets Fortress, a testament to medieval architecture and the scene of battles and events that have left an indelible mark on Bulgarian national identity. Likewise, if you plan to visit Bucharest during Christmas, you will find in these excursions to Veliko Tarnovo one of the thematic epicentres during the eve, with seasonal markets and decorations.
On the other hand, you should bear in mind that the history of Veliko Tarnovo is intertwined with the grandeur of the Second Bulgarian Empire, as it is the place where art, architecture and culture flourished. During your visit to the Tsarevets Fortress, you can explore ruins, walls and the Church of Saints Peter and Paul, which capture the imperial splendour and cultural richness of the city.
Details of interest
- Price: approximately £68 per person.
- Duration: around 12 hours.
5. Excursion to see wild brown bears and Dracula's fortress from Bucharest
One of the best tours you can take in Bucharest includes visiting the Carpathian Mountains, which are not only home to some of the region's most beautiful landscapes, but also the natural habitat of wild brown bears, Romania's most distinctive animal species. During the experience, you will visit a refuge that keeps the bears in a natural area that respects wildlife.
In addition, these regional wildlife excursions also include a stop at Dracula's fortress, located in the Transylvania region. This medieval building, known as Bran Castle, is famous for its connection to Bram Stoker's novel and the legend of Count Dracula. Therefore, visiting Dracula's Castle from Bucharest will allow you to explore its corridors and towers to discover the reality behind the fiction.
During these excursions, you will usually be assisted by an expert local guide who will teach you about the fortress that served as a strategic defence throughout the centuries and offers a unique insight into the architecture and culture of the time. From this castle, you can also enjoy some of the best panoramic views of the Carpathians in an unmissable experience.
Details of interest
- Price: approximately £195 per person.
- Duration: around 11 hours.
- Advantages of these excursions: you can combine an experience of Romania's nature with a visit to the country's main attraction, Dracula's Castle.
- Disadvantages of these excursions: they are not inexpensive experiences, as entrance fees to Romania's protected areas are often costly for visitors.
How to book an excursion from Bucharest?
You can book an excursion from Bucharest in advance online or hire one once you are in the city, although you should bear in mind that if you plan to visit the Romanian capital during the summer or high season, places on the experiences may sell out or increase in price due to last-minute bookings.
On the other hand, if you book before your arrival, you can put together an itinerary that allows you to make the most of your visit and combine these full-day excursions with some of the best guided tours of Bucharest, which offer different schedules. In addition, booking in advance is also ideal if you plan to visit the Romanian capital in two days or even less.
Tips for an excursion from Bucharest
Bucharest offers many attractions, both in the city and in the surrounding area, so the first thing I recommend is that you plan your itinerary in advance, taking into account distances and travel times, so that you can make the most of your visit.
On the other hand, don't forget to pack comfortable clothing and footwear, especially if your excursion involves walking or outdoor exploration, such as trips to the Carpathians to discover wild brown bears. Also, check the weather conditions before you leave, especially if you plan to visit Bucharest during the winter, when temperatures can be cold.
Finally, consider using local guided tour services to gain valuable insight into the history, culture and highlights of each destination. Not only will this maximise your experience, but it will also allow you to relax by handing over the logistics and focusing solely on the excursion.
Which towns should I not miss on a trip from Bucharest?
There are many places around Bucharest that you should not miss during your visit, but one of the essentials is Bran, the town that is home to the famous Dracula's Castle, linked to the legend of Bram Stoker's story. This picturesque Transylvanian village will captivate you with its cobbled streets and traditional houses, offering you a unique experience of Romanian culture.
Likewise, if you opt for the excursion to Bulgaria, you can visit Veliko Tarnovo, a medieval gem that reflects Bulgarian imperial power. Here you will discover the architecture and panoramic views of the Tsarevets Fortress, a landmark that reveals the grandeur of the region throughout the centuries.
Within the Carpathian circuit, don't forget to include the city of Brasov in your itinerary. With its colourful buildings and imposing Black Church, it offers an authentic perspective that will transport you back to medieval times in Romania, in a first-hand experience that you won't find even in the best museums in Bucharest.
Why is it advisable to take a trip from Bucharest?
Taking a day trip from Bucharest is highly recommended due to the wealth and diversity of experiences offered by the Romanian capital's surroundings. This destination also serves as a strategic starting point for exploring the history, culture and natural beauty of the region on full-day tours that allow you to visit Dracula's Castle in Bran and other gems of medieval architecture.
In addition, these excursions will give you the opportunity to discover the panoramic views of the Carpathians, as well as the natural wealth of these mountains, which includes species such as wild brown bears, one of Romania's distinctive animals.
On the other hand, the variety of excursions available from Bucharest will allow you to tailor your itinerary to your interests, whether it's immersing yourself in history at Tsarevets Fortress or relaxing on the beaches of Mamaia.