Tours of Romania. & Eastern Europe.

Transcription

1 Tours of Romania & Eastern Europe

2 Our story Index Covinnus Travel is a tour operator based in Bucharest, Romania and initially founded by three friends with a common passion: travel & tourism. We all have different backgrounds and expertise, an extensive experience in operating tours, and we really love what we do, i.e. showing people from around the world the wonders of Eastern Europe and the Balkans. We believe in a better world, and travelling can build the bridges needed to change the world. We are proud of our origins and we invite you to discover our lands, cultures and people. We also believe in professionalism, respect, kindness, and of course, fun. Covinnus tours are not standard programs. We carefully combine all the elements in a complete travel experience meant to give you a feeling of belonging to the places you visit. We currently operate private tours and small group tours in Romania and other Eastern European countries. We have served hundreds of tourists from all over the world and discovered together the local culture and the people of Eastern Europe. We are very proud to have received in Romania the film crew from Raw Travel Show, a travel program broadcast throughout the United States and internationally, but also Rick Steves staff during their journey to our country. Romania - the new travel destination in Europe Best of Romania Tour Interesting facts about Romania Authentic Transylvania Tour Vampires, Dracula and Transylvania In search of Dracula Tour Why travel to Eastern Europe now? Highlights of Romania and Bulgaria tour Bucharest to Budapest Tour Budapest to Sofia Tour Romania Photo Tour plus.google.com/u/0/+covinnus/posts Recomended on

3 Romania - the new travel destination in Europe For someone who has never been here, Romania is Wallachia, the Southern part of the country, is the region mostly 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, old and Nadia Comaneci are names mentioned almost cities, impressive castles, natural reservations and involuntarily 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 most to go deeper. So, if you are ready for the adventure, you famous region of Romania. Here you will understand have come to the right place. why His Highness, Prince Charles of Wales fell in Romania is a country of eternal beauty, enhanced by the love with these landscapes and struggles to promote impressive mountains of the Carpathians, the Black Sea Romania abroad. The fortified churches, the Saxon and the famous Danube River. villages, medieval citadels and cities, traditional craftsmen, natural sceneries and, of course, Dracula, The cultural objectives, many integrated on the are just a small part of the Transylvanian experience. UNESCO World Heritage are the legacy of a unique 2 history with a millennial basis both of Latin origin and of Danube Delta is probably the most important and 3 other medieval European nations. sensitive natural reservation, a forever young land, where you will understand the fragility and beauty of So, walk with us on the paths of Romania and discover nature. the country with its beautiful people. All the tourist programs that you are about to read In Maramures you will understand why the saying: will provide you systematic information about the Romania starts where the asphalt ends!. It is said that unique places and traditions, the Romanian lifestyle and here you ll find the heart of the rural Romania with lovely superstitions in the historical and cultural context that villages where the inhabitants keep alive the traditions made them possible. passed on from generation to generation. Do not forget, that in order to have a 100% Romanian Continue with Bucovina, where you will have the experience, you have to make some Romanian friends. chance to visit the unique painted monasteries erected Coming here and not getting to know the hospitable and in the middle of the nature and taste the delicious kind people living here, is like eating a very famous dish traditional dishes respecting the Romanian saying: The which was prepared without salt and pepper. The people best vegetable is...meat!. are the heart of these lands, people, that under this In Moldova, you will enjoy visiting impressive and wind of changes, are trying to keep a balance between famous wine cellars along with charming mansions and old and new, tradition and modernization. But all these medieval fortresses. are just colourful words. For a unique experience, you should come here and see for yourselves. You will be surprised for sure! Peles castle, Romania

4 Best of Romania Tour Tour description: Best of Romania Tour is designed for those who want to visit the most famous tourist attractions of Romania. In only 11 days this shared tour of Romania will give the chance of visiting cities like Bucharest or Cluj Napoca, medieval citadels of Transylvania such as Sibiu, Sighisoara or Brasov, rural areas from Maramures and Bucovina, Hungarian villages, the castles of Bran or Peles, UNESCO sites and many others. Main highlights of the trip: Bucharest The Parliament, The Village Museum and The Old Town, Sibiu old town, Alba Iulia medieval citadel, Cluj Napoca old town, Maramures traditional region, the wooden churches of Maramures the Painted Monasteries of Bucovina, the Red Lake, Sighisoara medieval citadel, Viscri fortified church, UNESCO Monuments: 7 Type: shared, cultural Duration: 11 days/ 10 nights Distance: 1700km / 1056mi Country: Romania Accommodation: 4-star hotels and B&Bs For the prices, please check our Pricing Page provided by your travel agent The price includes: - Airport pick-up and drop-off - Transport by modern coach - Accommodation for 10 nights in 4-star hotels and B&Bs 4 Brasov, Prejmer fortified church, Bran (Dracula) - Full Board Castle, Peles Castle, off the beaten paths surprise 5 attractions. - Licensed English-speaking tour guide - Entrance fees to sites included in the 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 Bran Castle, Romania

5 Itinerary Day 1: Bucharest Pick up from the airport and transfer to your hotel in Bucharest. Time at leisure. Dinner and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bucharest. 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 Day 8: Gura Humorului Bicaz - Sighisoara (320 km) Scenic drive along Bicaz Gorge Short stop at the Red Lake (unique in Romania) Short walking tour in Sighisoara Medieval citadel (UNESCO Heritage) Day 2: Full Day Bucharest City Tour Full board and accommodation at 3 or 4 star hotel in Sighetu Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Sighisoara. Marmatiei. 6 Panoramic tour of Bucharest Day 9: Sighisoara Viscri - Bran Brasov (200 km) Visit the Palace of the Parliament Day 6: Sighetu Marmatiei Barsana Bistrita (150 km) Visit Viscri fortified church and the village (UNESCO Visit the Village Museum Visit Sighet Memorial, a notorious former communist prison Heritage) Walking tour in the Revolution Square and in Bucharest Visit a local traditional market Visit Bran medieval castle Old Town Visit a local traditional distillery and whirlpool Short walking tour in Brasov Old Town Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bucharest. 7 Visit Barsana convent, a typical wooden worship construction Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Brasov. from the area Day 3: Bucharest Curtea de Arges Sibiu (290 km) Short walking tour in Bistrita Day 10: Brasov Prejmer - Sinaia Bucharest (150 km) Visit Curtea de Arges Monastery Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bistrita. Visit Prejmer fortified church (UNESCO Heritage) Short walking tour in Sibiu Old Town (The Small Square, the Large Square, the Liars Bridge, the Evangelic Church, Visit a local wine cellar and enjoy a sparkling wine tasting the Council Tower) Day 7: Bistrita - Moldovita Sucevita Marginea Gura Humorului (250 km) Visit Peles royal castle Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Sibiu. Visit Moldovita painted monastery (UNESCO Heritage) Visit Sinaia Monastery Day 4: Sibiu Alba Iulia Cluj Napoca (180 km) Visit Sucevita painted monastery (UNESCO Heritage) Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bucharest. Visit Marginea black pottery workshop Visit Alba Iulia Carolina Medieval citadel, the Orthodox Cathedral and the Roman-Catholic Cathedral Visit Voronet painted monastery (UNESCO Heritage) Day 11: Bucharest Short walking tour in Cluj Napoca city Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Gura Humorului. Time at leisure and transfer from your hotel to the airport for the flight back home. Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Cluj Napoca. End of the tour. Brasov medieval city, Romania.

6 Interesting facts about Romania Did you know that Romania is the 4th largest Orthodox country in the world after is the first country in continental Europe to have electric Russia, Ethiopia and Ukraine? public lighting? It happened in Timisoara in The first city in Europe with electric public light was London. is the country where Prince Nicolae Mavrogheni (18th century), instead of using horses for his carriage, had is the country where Nadia Comaneci was born? She was two 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). state from WWII still alive? He s King Michael I, born in boasts the largest gold resources in Europe? There is a 9 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 a mountain? It s the Heroes Cross built in the memory of is the country where Prince Charles of Great Britain owns Romanian soldiers who died in the Great War. three guest houses? He comes to Romania each year. 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 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 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). Sighisoara citadel, Romania

7 Authentic Transylvania Tour Tour description: Take a dive into the fantastic realm of Transylvania and admire the forgotten villages and the daily rural life. Visit the medieval towns of Transylvania such as Sibiu, Sighisoara and Brasov. The tour starts in Bucharest where you ll spend the first night. For the rest of the tour, beside Sibiu, you ll experience several stunning traditional accommodations located in wonderful villages. Authentic Transylvania Tour is a divers tour of Romania. UNESCO Monuments: 3 Type: shared, cultural Duration: 8 days/ 7 nights Distance: 1000km / 625mi Country: Romania Accommodation: 4-star hotels and B&Bs For the prices, please check our Pricing Page provided by your travel agent The price includes: Main highlights of the trip: - Airport pick-up and drop-off Bucharest The Parliament, The Village Museum - Transport by modern coach 10 and The Old Town, Sibiu old town, Alba Iulia - Accommodation for 7 nights in 4-star hotels and B&Bs 11 medieval citadel, Cluj Napoca old town, Sighisoara medieval citadel, Brasov, Prejmer fortified church, - Full Board Bran (Dracula) Castle, Peles Castle, off the beaten - Licensed English-speaking tour guide paths surprise attractions - Entrance fees to sites included in the 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 Sibiu medieval city, Romania

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

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

10 In search of Dracula Tour Tour description: The Dracula Tour follows the history and the legends about Dracula, the infamous character of Bram Stoker. The tour starts in Bucharest, a city first mentioned in a written document by Dracula himself. On the way to Transylvania you ll reach the real fortress of Vlad the Impaler and then, passing through Sibiu you ll see many other place related to him such as the Corvin Castle, the medieval town of Sighisoara, his birth place, the Borgo Pass or the Bran Castle, the most visited tourist attraction of Romania. Main highlights of the trip: Bucharest The Parliament, The Village Museum 16 and The Old Town, Old Princely Court of Targoviste, Poienari fortress, Sibiu old town, Huniazi medieval - Accommodation for 9 nights in 4-star 17 castle, Alba Iulia medieval citadel, Cluj Napoca old town, Bistrita Old Town, Borgo Pass, Sighisoara medieval citadel, Viscri fortified church, Brasov, Prejmer and Biertan fortified church, Bran (Dracula) Castle, Peles Castle, Rasnov fortress and Snagov Monastery. UNESCO Monuments: 4 Type: shared, cultural, thematic Duration: 10 days/ 9 nights Distance: km / 1100mi Country: Romania Accommodation: 4-star hotels and B&Bs For the prices, please check our Pricing Page provided by your travel agent The price includes: - Airport pick-up and drop-off - Transport by modern coach hotels and B&Bs - Full Board - Licensed English-speaking tour guide - Entrance fees to sites included in the 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 Poienari medieval fortress, Romania

11 Itinerary Day 1: Bucharest Day 4: Sibiu Hunedoara - Alba Iulia Cluj Napoca (300 km) Day 8: Brasov Rasnov Bran Brasov (60 km) Pick up from the airport and transfer to your hotel in Bucharest. Visit Huniazi medieval castle Visit Rasnov medieval citadel Time at leisure. Visit Alba Iulia Carolina Medieval citadel, the Orthodox Visit Bran Dracula s castle Dinner and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bucharest. Day 2: Full Day Bucharest City Tour Cathedral and the Roman-Catholic Cathedral Time at your leisure in the evening In Cluj Napoca. Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Cluj Napoca. Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Brasov. Day 9: Brasov Sinaia Snagov - Bucharest (210 km) Day 5: Cluj Napoca Bistrita Borgo Pass (120 km) Panoramic tour of Bucharest Visit Peles Royal castle Short walking tour in Cluj Napoca Visit the Palace of the Parliament Visit Sinaia Monastery Visit the Borgo Pass Visit the Village Museum Visit Snagov Monastery 18 Short walking tour in Bistrita Old Town Walking tour in the Revolution Square and in Bucharest Old Town Full board and accommodation at 4 star hotel in Bistrita. Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bucharest. 19 Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bucharest. Day 10: Bucharest Day 6: Bistrita Biertan Sighisoara (200 km) Time at your leisure and transfer from your hotel to the airport Day 3: Bucharest Targoviste Poienari - Sibiu (361 km) Visit Biertan fortified church (UNESCO Heritage) for the flight back home. Visit the Old Princely Court from Targoviste Short walking tour in Sighisoara medieval citadel (UNESCO Heritage) Visit the ruins of Poienari fortress End of the tour. Visit Vlad Dracul House Short evening walking tour in Sibiu Old Town (The Small Square, the Large Square, the Liars Bridge, the Evangelic Church, the Council Tower) Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Sibiu. Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Sighisoara. 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. Snagov Monastery, Romania

12 Why travel to Eastern Europe? They say all the roads lead to Rome or, in our case, to Paris, Amsterdam, Berlin, Barcelona and so on. The West remains a fascinating part of Europe, old and modern, cultural and picturesque. There are countless reasons why tourists should go travel there as well as countless reasons why they should get the bigger picture of Europe and throw an eye over the East, also. Over here it lies some of the most incredible history, culture, traditions, art, castles, architecture, people the list is truly impressive. So, check out why you should include some countries from this part on your travel bucket list: 1. It is still cheaper. The services here are offering a good value for money. The prices at the restaurants, the hotels and museum, even transportation and taxis, are lower as the ones from the West. 9. Local touch of accommodations, restaurants, Warm and friendly people. The East Europeans are experiences, with no so many standardized services. Imagine turning back time and experience the lifestyle of the 21 among the most hospitable people in the world, some of them even welcoming you in their homes to taste the traditional dishes and discover their customs. 3. The food is great! You will find here an interesting mixture of tastes, each country with its own flavour. Also, you will notice that at the restaurants even though the dishes are coming a little bit slower, the taste of the food is authentic and natural. The waiting really worths it!! 4. Culture - mixture of several Western and Oriental cultures. The East is located at the crossroads between the Occident and the Orient and that is why you will find a little bit from these cultures in this area. 5. Craftsmen and souvenirs. Well, actually the craftsmen represent the real heart and soul of this area. They beautifully and stubbornly defy time choosing to maintain the local traditions through their work. Their passion is transmitted from generation to generation and their individual workshops are unique, small universes that are waiting to be discovered by the curious eyes and ears of the tourists. Whether we talk about: carpentry, tailoring, traditional pottery, embroidery, painting, sculpture or perhaps most importantly, local cuisine 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 services you will find here, allowing you to discover how people really are without the uniform standardization from the West. 7. Dracula - this is probably the most popular reason to visit Eastern Europe, as Transylvania is waiting for all the tourists eager to find out the truth behind the legend of Dracula. 8. Communism legacy - a historical and life changing lesson. The communist regime left a deep mark not only in the people s life and memories but also in the local culture. Each country has its own story and the remains of Soviet style buildings, monuments and statues are also a way of saying their story. local people the way it used to be many years ago. Either it is about charming mansions, remote traditional houses, aristocratic houses or apartments, you will find in these places the nowadays comfort and the charming local touch of each country or region. 10. In search of ancestors. There are nowadays many tourists getting back to Eastern countries in search of their 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. 11. Natural food (the local cuisine), as our parents used to 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-working farmers. These authentic dishes reflect the the culinary diversity of Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Croatia, Poland, Romania, Hungary, Slovenia, Serbia, Slovakia, Ukraine, Republic of Moldova and Russia. And the list may continue. So, indeed, why not travel to Eastern Europe now? The Palace of the Parliament, Budapest, Hungary

13 Highlights of Romania and Bulgaria Tour Tour description: Highlights of Romania and Bulgaria Tour takes you in just 13 days in two important countries of the Balkans. Romania and Bulgaria, part of Eastern Europe, share many similarities but in the same time have their unique traits. During this tour you can discover two capitals, Bucharest and Sofia, two different languages, great historical regions such as Transylvania or Maramures, beautiful medieval cities such as Sibiu, Sighisora, Veliko Tarnovo or Plovdiv and many other famous tourist landmarks. UNESCO Monuments: 8 Type: shared, cultural Duration: 13 days/ 12 nights Distance: 2200 km / 1367mi Country: Romania, Bulgaria Accommodation: 4-star hotels and B&Bs For the prices, please check our Pricing Page provided by your travel agent Merry Cemetery, Romania Main highlights of the trip: The price includes: Bucharest The Parliament, The Village Museum - Airport pick-up and drop-off and The Old Town, Sibiu old town, Alba Iulia - Transport by modern coach 22 medieval citadel, Cluj Napoca old town, Maramures traditional region, the wooden churches of - Accommodation for 12 nights in 4-star 23 Maramures the Painted Monasteries of Bucovina, the Red Lake, Sighisoara medieval citadel, Viscri fortified church, Brasov, Prejmer fortified church, Bran (Dracula) Castle, Peles Castle, Ivanovo Churches, Veliko Tarnovo medieval city, Plovdiv, Sofia and off the beaten paths surprise attractions. hotels and B&Bs - Full Board - Licensed English-speaking tour guide - Entrance fees to sites included in the 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

14 Itinerary Day 1: Bucharest Pick up from the airport and transfer to your hotel in Bucharest. Time at leisure. Dinner and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bucharest. Day 2: Full Day Bucharest City Tour Panoramic tour of Bucharest Visit the Palace of the Parliament Visit the Village Museum Walking tour in the Revolution Square and in Bucharest Old Town Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bucharest. Day 4: Sibiu Alba Iulia Cluj Napoca (180 km) 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. 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 6: Sighetu Marmatiei Barsana Bistrita (150 km) Visit Sighet Memorial Visit a local traditional market Visit a local traditional distillery and whirpool Visit Barsana convent Short walking tour in Bistrita Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bistrita. 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 Monastery Full 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 fortress Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Veliko Tarnovo. Day 7: Bistrita Moldovita Sucevita Marginea Gura Humorului (250 km) Visit Moldovita painted monastery (UNESCO Heritage) Visit Sucevita painted monastery (UNESCO Heritage) Visit Marginea black pottery workshop 24 Day 3: Bucharest Curtea de Arges Sibiu (290 km) Visit Voronet painted monastery (UNESCO Heritage) Day 11: Veliko Tarnovo Plovdiv (250 km) Visit Curtea de Arges Monastery Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Gura Humorului. Visit Etar Village Museum Short walking tour in Sibiu Old Town (The Small Square, the Shipka Pass Large Square, the Liars Bridge, the Evangelic Church, the Short walking tour in Plovdiv and visit the Ancient Roman Council Tower) Amphitheatre 25 Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Sibiu. Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Plovdiv. Day 8: Gura Humorului Bicaz - Sighisoara (320 km) Scenic drive along Bicaz Gorge Short stop at the Red Lake (unique in Romania) 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 Town Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Brasov. Day 12: Plovdiv Sofia (160 km) Panoramic and walking tour in Sofia Time at your leisure Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Sofia. Day 13: Sofia Transfer from your hotel to the airport for the flight back home. End of the tour. Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria

15 Bucharest to Budapest Tour Tour description: The Bucharest-Budapest Tour crosses two countries, Romania and Hungary. It starts in the vivid city of Bucharest, crosses the Carpathian Mountains into the exotic Transylvania where you ll discover forgotten villages, well-preserved medieval towns and terrifying legends. On the way, you ll experience the rural life of Maramures, while in Hungary you ll admire the medieval town of Eger and the magnificent city of Budapest. UNESCO Monuments: 5 Type: shared, cultural Duration: 11 days/ 10 nights Distance: 1600 km / 994mi Country: Romania, Hungary Accommodation: 4-star hotels and B&Bs For the prices, please check our Pricing Page provided by your travel agent Bucharest Downtown, Romania Main highlights of the trip: The price includes: Bucharest The Parliament, The Village Museum - Airport pick-up and drop-off and The Old Town, Sibiu old town, Alba Iulia - Transport by modern coach medieval citadel, Cluj Napoca old town, Maramures 26 traditional region, the wooden churches of - Accommodation for 10 nights in 4-star 27 Maramures, Sighisoara medieval citadel, Biertan fortified church, Brasov, Prejmer fortified church, Bran (Dracula) Castle, Peles Castle, Rasnov fortress, Budapest - Matthias Church and the Fishermen Bastion, Hungarian Parliament Palace, Egri medieval fortress, Debrecen. hotels and B&Bs - Full Board - Licensed English-speaking tour guide - Entrance fees to sites included in the 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

16 Itinerary Day 1: Bucharest (RO) Pick up from the airport and transfer to your hotel in Bucharest. Time at leisure. Dinner and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bucharest. Day 2: Full Day Bucharest City Tour Panoramic tour of Bucharest Visit the Palace of the Parliament Visit the Village Museum Walking tour in the Revolution Square and in Bucharest Old Town Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bucharest. Day 3: Bucharest Sinaia Rasnov Brasov (150 km) Visit Sinaia Monastery Visit Peles castle Visit a local wine cellar and enjoy a sparkling wine tasting Visit Rasnov medieval fortress Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Brasov. Day 4: Brasov Prejmer Bran Brasov (100 km) Short walking tour in Brasov downtown Visit Prejmer Fortified Church (UNESCO World Heritage) Visit Bran medieval castle (Dracula s castle) Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Brasov. Day 5: Brasov Sighisoara Biertan Sibiu (230 km) Short walking tour in Sighisoara medieval citadel (UNESCO Heritage) Visit Biertan fortified church (UNESCO Heritage) Short walking tour in Sibiu old town Full board and accommodation at 4 star hotel in Sibiu. Day 6: Sibiu Alba Iulia Turda Cluj Napoca (200 km) Visit Alba Iulia Carolina medieval fortress, the Orthodox Cathedral and the Roman-Catholic Cathedral Visit Turda salt mine Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Cluj Napoca. Day 9: Debrecen - Eger Budapest (250 km) 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 Budapest Full 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 River Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Budapest Day 7: Cluj Napoca Surdesti - Sighetu Marmatiei (200 km) Short walking tour in Cluj Napoca Visit Surdesti wooden church (UNESCO Heritage) Visit a local traditional distillery and whirlpool Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Sighetu Marmatiei. Day 8: Sighetu Marmatiei Sapanta Carei (RO) Debrecen (HU) (250 km) Visit a local traditional market in Sighetu Marmatiei and visit Sighet Memorial Visit Sapanta Merry Cemetery (unique in the world) Visit Carei Castle Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Debrecen. Day 11: Budapest Transfer from your hotel to the airport for the flight back home. End of the tour. Budapest, Hungary

17 Budapest to Sofia Tour Tour description: UNESCO Monuments: 7 The Budapest to Sofia tour crosses three of the Type: shared, cultural most beautiful Eastern European countries, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, and takes you from Budapest, the Duration: 14 days/ 13 nights romantic capital of Hungary, to the surprising city of Distance: 1900km / 1181mi Sofia, Bulgaria. During this 14 day trip you will discover Country: Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria unique cities, be pampered in the famous thermal Accommodation: 4-star hotels and B&Bs baths from Budapest, taste the delicious local cuisine, admire the mighty Danube river (known as the King of the European rivers) and the breath taking Carpathian For the prices, please check our Pricing Page Mountains, experience the rural life in charming and provided by your travel agent picturesque villages from Transylvania, get in touch with the local people, visit impressive UNESCO Monuments, listen to long forgotten legends kept inside medieval The price includes: castles and cities, and hear about how life used to be - Airport pick-up and drop-off behind the Iron Curtain. - Transport by modern coach 30 Main highlights of the trip: - Accommodation for 13 nights in 4-star 31 Bucharest The Parliament, The Village Museum and The Old Town, Sibiu old town, Alba Iulia medieval citadel, Cluj Napoca old town, Maramures traditional region, the wooden churches of Maramures, Sighisoara medieval citadel, Biertan fortified church, Brasov, Prejmer fortified church, Bran (Dracula) Castle, Peles Castle, Rasnov fortress, Budapest - Matthias Church and the Fishermen Bastion, Hungarian Parliament Palace, Egri medieval fortress, Debrecen, Ivanovo Churches, Plovdiv, Medieval city of Veliko Tarnovo, Tsaverets fortress, Sofia. hotels and B&Bs - Full Board - Licensed English-speaking tour guide - Entrance fees to sites included in the 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 Eger, Hungary

18 Itinerary Day 1: Budapest (HU) Pick up from the airport and transfer to your hotel in Budapest. Time at leisure. Dinner and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Budapest. Day 2: 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 River Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Budapest. 32 Day 3: Budapest Eger - Debrecen (250 km) 33 Visit Biertan fortified church (UNESCO Heritage) Short walking tour in Eger Old Town and visit the Egri medieval fortress Short walking tour in Sighisoara medieval citadel (UNESCO Day 12: Veliko Tarnovo Plovdiv (250 km) Heritage) Visit the Town Underground (visit the wine cellar and Walking Visit Etar Village Museum enjoy a wine tasting) Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Brasov. Shipka Pass Time at leisure in Debrecen Short walking tour in Plovdiv and visit the Ancient Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Roman Amphitheatre Debrecen. Full board and accommodation at 4 star hotel in Plovdiv. Day 4: Debrecen (HU) Carei (RO) Sapanta Sighetu Marmatiei (250 km) Visit Carei Castle Visit Sapanta Merry Cemetery (unique in the world) Short panoramic tour in Sighetu Marmatiei and visit Sighet Memorial Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Sighetu Marmatiei. Day 5: Sighetu Marmatiei Surdesti - Cluj Napoca (200 km) Visit a local traditional market in Sighetu Marmatiei Visit a local traditional distillery and whirlpool Visit Surdesti wooden church (UNESCO Heritage) Short walking tour in Cluj Napoca Full board and accommodation at 4 star hotel in Cluj Napoca. Day 6: Cluj Napoca Turda Alba Iulia Sibiu (200 km) Visit Turda salt mine Visit Alba Iulia Carolina medieval fortress, the Orthodox Cathedral and the Roman-Catholic Cathedral Short walking tour in Sibiu old town Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Sibiu. Day 7: Sibiu Biertan Sighisoara Brasov (230 km) Day 8: Brasov Rasnov Bran Brasov (100 km) Short walking tour in Brasov downtown Visit Rasnov Medieval fortress Visit Bran medieval castle (Dracula s castle) Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Brasov. Day 9: 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 Monastery Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bucharest. Day 10: Bucharest Panoramic Tour of Bucharest Visit the Palace of the Parliament Visit the Village Museum Walking tour in Bucharest Old Town and the Revolution Square Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Bucharest. 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 fortress Full board and accommodation at 4 star hotel in Veliko Tarnovo. 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 leisure Full board and accommodation at a 4 star hotel in Sofia. Day 14: Sofia Transfer from your hotel to the airport for the flight back home. End of the tour. Plovdiv, Bulgaria

19 Romania Photo Tour Short description: Romania Photo Tour tries to cover as many photo fields as possible. It will take you through famous tourist landmarks of Romania such as Peles and Bran castles, but it will also take you to remote villages where tourists are rarely seen. You ll take pictures of people, local Gypsies and Romanians dressed in beautiful traditional costumes. You ll admire stunning sunrises and have the chance to capture the real beauty of nature. In major For the prices, please check our Pricing Page cities, you ll have fun shooting the street life. It s going provided by your travel agent to be much easier than you think as your tour guide/ photographer will ease the communication between The price includes: 34 you and the local people. - Airport pick-up and drop-off 35 Main highlights of the trip: Bucharest The Parliament, The Village Museum and The Old Town, Sibiu old town, Alba Iulia medieval citadel, Cluj Napoca old town, Maramures traditional region and the picturesque villages, the wooden churches of Maramures, Sighisoara medieval citadel, Biertan fortified church, Brasov, Prejmer fortified church, Bran (Dracula) Castle, Peles Castle, Rasnov fortress, Transylvanian medieval villages, local workshops. UNESCO Monuments: 7 Type: shared, photo, cultural Duration: 14 days/ 13 nights Distance: 1800km / 1119mi Country: Romania Accommodation: 4-star hotels and B&Bs - Transport by modern coach - Accommodation for 13 nights in 4/3-star hotels and B&Bs - Full Board - Licensed English-speaking tour guide - Entrance fees to sites included in the 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 (if needed) - Tips - Travel insurance - Personal expenses Peasants cart, Romania

20 36 Itinerary Day 1: Bucharest Pick up from the airport and transfer to your hotel in Bucharest. Time at leisure. Dinner and accommodation in Bucharest. Day 2: Full Day Bucharest City Tour Panoramic tour of Bucharest with stops for photos and walk on the hidden little street to capture the typical life and people in Romania s capital city Visit the Palace of the Parliament Visit the Village Museum Full board and accommodation in Bucharest. Day 3: Bucharest Curtea de Arges Sibiu (300 km) Visit Curtea de Arges Monastery Drive along picturesque roads and stop in remote areas with forgotten villages for photos Time at leisure in Sibiu Full board and accommodation in Sibiu. Day 4: Sibiu In the morning, street photography in Sibiu In the afternoon, drive to the rural area around Sibiu and capture rural scenes Full board and accommodation in Sibiu. Day 5: Sibiu Sunrise photo session in the mountain rural area around Sibiu Early evening walk and night time scenes in the city of Sibiu Full board and accommodation in Sibiu. Napoca. Day 6: Sibiu Alba Iulia Turda (143 km) Visit Alba Iulia Carolina medieval fortress, the Orthodox Cathedral and the Roman-Catholic Cathedral Evening photos in remote rural areas from the Carpathian Mountains. Full board and accommodation in a Transylvanian village. Day 7: Turda Surdesti Vadu Izei (216 km) Visit the impressive Turda Salt Mine Visit the wooden church of Surdesti (UNESCO site) Evening photo session in the villages of Maramures rural area Full board and accommodation in Vadu Izei. Day 8: Vadu Izei Sighetu Marmatiei Sapanta Vadu Izei (60 km) Visit a local market in Sighetu Marmatiei Visit the Merry Cemetery from Sapanta (unique in the world) Visit Sapanta Peri convent Photo tour of a local village in Maramures (admire the old houses, the ancient crafts, and the daily life) Full board and accommodation in Vadu Izei. Day 9: Vadu Izei Barsana Bistrita Sighisoara (271 km) Visit Barsana convent Short walking tour in Bistrita old town Panoramic tour of Targu Mures city Full board and accommodation in Sighisoara. Day 10: Sighisoara Biertan Sighisoara (61 km) Morning photo tour in Biertan medieval village Afternoon walking tour in Sighisoara medieval citadel (UNESCO site) Late afternoon-early evening photos of Sighisoara Full 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 city Full 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 Bucharest Full board and accommodation in Bucharest. Day 14: Bucharest Transfer from your hotel to the airport for the flight back home. End of the tour. Gipsy blacksmith, Romania

21 Booking & Info If you need more info regarding our tours or want to start a collaboration with us, feel free to contact us at: office@covinnus.com See more tourist programs and get to know us on: Breb village, Maramures, Romania