Bucovina and Maramures, two captivating regions nestled in the North of Romania, beckon travelers with their unique charm and cultural treasures. These lands, known as the "Land of Painted Monasteries" and the "Land of Wooden Churches," offer a glimpse into Romania's rich history, traditions, and artistic heritage. Here are a few compelling reasons why you should consider visiting Bucovina and Maramures:
1. **Architectural Marvels**: Bucovina is renowned for its stunning painted monasteries, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These monasteries feature vibrant frescoes that adorn their exteriors, depicting biblical scenes and religious narratives in vivid detail. Maramures, on the other hand, is famous for its remarkable wooden churches, often dubbed "the wooden gems of Maramures." These intricate structures are impressive examples of traditional Romanian craftsmanship.
2. **Rich Cultural Heritage**: Both Bucovina and Maramures have managed to preserve their distinct cultural traditions and way of life. When you visit these regions, you'll have the chance to witness age-old customs, music, dance, and local festivals that provide a window into Romania's authentic rural culture.
3. **Stunning Natural Beauty**: Beyond their cultural treasures, Bucovina and Maramures boast breathtaking natural landscapes. The Carpathian Mountains provide a picturesque backdrop, with lush forests, pristine rivers, and charming villages dotting the countryside. The regions are also known for their rolling hills, meadows, and fertile farmlands.
4. **Warm Hospitality**: The people of Bucovina and Maramures are known for their warm hospitality. You'll find friendly locals who are eager to share their traditions, stories, and homemade delicacies. Staying in traditional guesthouses, you can immerse yourself in the local way of life and savor authentic Romanian cuisine.
5. **Outdoor Adventures**: Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to do in these regions. Hiking, cycling, and horseback riding are popular activities, allowing you to explore the stunning landscapes at your own pace. In the winter, the Carpathian Mountains offer opportunities for skiing and snowboarding.
6. **Spiritual Retreat**: Bucovina's painted monasteries are not only architectural wonders but also places of spiritual significance. Whether you're a devout pilgrim or simply seeking a tranquil atmosphere for contemplation, these monasteries provide a peaceful retreat.
7. **Unspoiled Beauty**: Unlike some more touristy destinations, Bucovina and Maramures have retained their unspoiled charm. You won't find crowds of tourists here, allowing you to experience the authenticity and serenity of rural Romania.
In conclusion, Bucovina and Maramures are treasures waiting to be discovered by travelers seeking a unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. These regions offer a glimpse into Romania's soul, where painted monasteries and wooden churches stand as testaments to a rich history and a vibrant, enduring culture. A visit to Bucovina and Maramures promises a journey back in time, where tradition and artistry converge in a truly enchanting way.
Itinerary
Day 1
– Independent arrival in Iasi airport, transfer by our van to Unirea hotel, 4*, down town of Iasi. Check in, talk about the next days, questions and answers.
Services included: dinner, accommodation, transportation.
Day 2
– A half day visiting Ias, lunch, and transfer to Gura Humorului town in heart of Bucovina.
Visiting Iasi is like stepping into a captivating blend of history and vibrant culture. This charming city in Romania welcomes you with open arms, boasting a rich tapestry of architectural wonders, lush green parks, and a warm, friendly atmosphere. As you stroll through the cobbled streets, you'll be enchanted by the graceful architecture, from the iconic Palace of Culture to the countless Orthodox churches. The city's youthful energy is palpable, thanks to the lively student population, making for a lively arts and nightlife scene. Be sure to savor the local cuisine at cozy cafes and discover the city's unique charm as you explore its hidden gems. Iasi is a delightful destination that offers a taste of Romanian history, culture, and hospitality, leaving you with cherished memories.
After lunch, we start driving towards Gura Humorului town, in the heart of Bucovina, driving time aprox 3 hours.
Accommodation will be at Best Western 4* hotel, in Gura Humorului
Services included: breakfast, lunch, dinner, accommodation, transportation
Day 3
– The day start visiting the UNESCO Humor Monastery, a serene place where time seems to stand still. The rich history and intricate frescoes will transport you back in time, offering a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
A little bit later, the Voronet Monastery, also a UNESCO gem renowned for its striking blue frescoes. As you stand before these masterpieces, you'll appreciate the spiritual and artistic significance that permeates the air.
Our final adventure of today takes us to the Egg Museum in Vama village, a delightful celebration of local creativity. Here, you'll be captivated by the intricate hand-painted eggs, a testament to the artistic talent of the region.
This day promises an unforgettable journey through history, spirituality, and artistry – a truly unique and enriching experience.
As timings, will be no more than 30 min drive from one place to the next one, and lunch will be as packed lunch, carefully prepared by our hotel.
Accommodation at the same hotel Best Estern in Gura Humorului town.
Services included: breakfast, packed lunch, dinner, accommodation, transportation and entrance fees.
Day 4
– A day trip to Putna, Sucevița, and Moldovița monasteries offers a captivating journey through the picturesque region of Bucovina in Romania, renowned for its stunning painted monasteries. Our adventure begins after a good breakfast, and within one hour, you'll find yourself immersed in a world of history, culture, and religious art.
Our first stop is Putna Monastery, known as the "Jerusalem of the Romanian people." This impressive Orthodox monastery is famous for its unique architecture and significant historical role. Explore the beautifully adorned church, dedicated to Saint Stephen, and take in the vibrant frescoes that depict biblical scenes and the lives of saints. Don't forget to visit the tomb of Stephen the Great, a legendary Moldavian ruler.
After 40 min drive, our next venture to Sucevița Monastery, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This serene complex is surrounded by lush forests and features well-preserved frescoes that are renowned for their distinctive shade of blue. The vividly colored exterior tells stories from the Bible, displaying an impressive level of artistry and detail. Spend time wandering the peaceful grounds and reflecting on the spiritual ambiance.
Our final stop is at Moldovița Monastery, another UNESCO-listed gem. Here, you'll be enchanted by the unique reddish-brown hue of the monastery's exterior frescoes. The scenes depict religious narratives, as well as the history of the region. Take a leisurely stroll around the peaceful courtyard and perhaps even enjoy some local cuisine in the nearby area.
Throughout your day trip, you'll be treated to not only the rich spiritual and historical heritage of these monasteries but also the lush and serene natural surroundings of Bucovina. It's a journey filled with art, culture, and a deeper understanding of Romania's religious traditions, all in the span of a single day. Remember to respect the monasteries' rules and dress modestly during your visit, and you're sure to leave with a profound appreciation for this unique corner of the world.
Later in afternoon we’ll arrive back to Best Western hotel in Gura humorului, full of joy and beautiful memories!
Services included: breakfast, packed lunch, dinner, accommodation, transportation and entrance fees.
Day 5
– After the 2 days spent in Bucovina, the land of painted monasteries and endless green forests, today we will head to another historical area in Northern Romania, Maramures, the land of flowers, wooden churches and endless hills full of wild flowers, welcoming people and last but not least, an area with a special culinary heritage, which we will explore in the coming days.
Our destination today is the Maramures village of Botiza, located at the foot of the Tibles mountains, where for the next 4 days we will stay with local families in small guest houses, of course in comfortable rooms, and enjoy the hospitality and traditional food.
The transfer time from Gura Humorului to Botiza is about 3 and a half hours, lunch will be as picninc.
Services included: breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner, accommodation, transport.
Day 6
– Step into a timeless realm where faith and craftsmanship converge – the wooden churches of Botiza, Ieud, and Poienile Izei. Here, amidst the serene landscapes of Maramureș, history whispers through weathered timbers and the fragrant embrace of pine.
Each church, a symphony of rustic beauty, bears the marks of centuries on its wooden skin. Gazing upward, you'll be captivated by intricately carved wooden spires that seem to reach for the heavens. Sunlight streams through ancient stained glass, casting kaleidoscopic patterns on the hallowed ground below.
Walking through these hallowed halls, one can almost hear the whispered prayers of generations, echoing in the richly adorned icons that adorn the walls. The aroma of polished wood and beeswax lingers, a sensory testament to the devotion of those who have maintained these sacred places.
In Botiza, Ieud, and Poienile Izei, you'll find not just architectural marvels but living sanctuaries where time itself bows in reverence to the enduring spirit of faith. It's an artistic journey through history, spirituality, and the heart of rural Romania – a pilgrimage for the soul and the senses.
Transfers of today will be short, maximum 20 minutes, and accommodation will be on same guest houses as day before.
Services included: breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner, accommodation, transportation.
Day 7
– Embark on an enchanting journey through time as you step aboard the vintage steam train winding its way through the picturesque Valea Vaserului in Maramureș. The rhythmic hiss and chug of the locomotive whisper tales of yesteryears, while the crisp mountain air carries with it the promise of adventure.
The train's vintage carriages evoke a bygone era of elegance, where polished wood and brass accents tell stories of craftsmanship and nostalgia. Gazing out of the windows, you'll encounter remote, hidden hamlets and charming wooden cabins that seem to belong to another century.
Your senses will be enraptured by the fragrant pine-scented air, the rhythmic heartbeat of the engine, and the ever-changing landscapes. As you traverse this wild and untouched realm, time feels suspended, and you become a part of the enchanting story that Valea Vaserului has been writing for centuries.
A day aboard the steam train on Valea Vaserului in Maramureș is an artistic masterpiece in motion, a canvas of nature's grandeur painted with the strokes of history and nostalgia. It is a journey to treasure, where the past and present intertwine in a dance of pure enchantment, and we’ll enjoy it today!
As distance, will be one hour drive from Botiza to the steam train, and one more hour back. Accommodation at the same guesthouses in Botiza village.
Services included: breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner, accommodation, transportation, train tickets.
Day 8
– In Maramureș, where the past unfurls its captivating tapestry, today journey begins at the Barsana Wooden Monastery. Its towering spires embrace the heavens, a testament to centuries of faith, and the tranquil courtyard whispers ancient secrets among the wooden saints.
Sighet's Victims of Communism Museum is a somber chapter etched in time. As you step into its shadowed halls, the haunting echoes of injustice and resilience reverberate through photographs and artifacts, bearing witness to the human spirit's indomitable strength.
And finally, Sapanta's Merry Cemetery offers a whimsical dance of life and death. Here, gravestones come alive with colorful tales, each painted epitaph a vibrant celebration of the souls that rest beneath. It's a testament to the Maramureș spirit, where even in farewell, life is celebrated with a joyful flourish.
As driving times today, Săpânța is 1 hour and 20 minutes’ drive from Botiza, and the other 2 visits are on our way to Săpânța.
Services included: breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner, accommodation, transportation.
Day 9
– And little by little, our journey in Bucovina and Maramures is coming to an end.
After breakfast we will head to Iasi, from where our journey started, with a duration of 6 hours, of course, during which we will have breaks.
Accommodation will be at the same comfortable hotel Unirea, 4*. The afternoon is free in Iasi, enjoy the beauties of Iasi!
Services included: breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner, accommodation, transportation.
Day 10
– Breakfast and preparing for the flight home. We hope it was a wonderful trip, where you learned new things, enjoyed them, and last but not least enjoyed the cultural and culinary diversity.
Services included: breakfast, airport transfer.
Tour info
Tour specification
Price list
1430 Euro
Price conditions
Price for the mentioned tour above, including all the mentioned services, is 1430 EURO per person, in double room occupancy.