Tour Bucharest’s Palace of the Parliament and Ceaușescu’s Spring Palace
Explore Romania’s contemporary art scene with exclusive gallery access
Visit Peleș Castle and enjoy wine tasting at Cantacuzino Castle
Stroll medieval Brașov
Exclusive access to explore Bran Castle by lamplight after dark
Explore the Saxon village of Viscri and meet members of the local community
See Bucovina’s UNESCO painted monasteries
Participate in a traditional egg-painting workshop
Marvel at Red Lake and the dramatic Bicaz Gorges
Step into a world where luxury, exclusivity, and adventure intertwine – this is Romania, reimagined. Designed for discerning, adventurous and sophisticated traveller who craves deeper cultural connections, this journey blends iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and immersive local encounters with an elevated touch of indulgence.
Wander through the cobbled streets of medieval towns, uncover the artistic pulse of Bucharest, and lose yourself in the dramatic landscapes of the Carpathian Mountains. From sheepfold encounters in the Carpathian Mountains to sipping fine Romanian wines in aristocratic castles, every experience is curated to inspire, empower, and ignite your spirit of discovery.
With handpicked luxury boutique stays, exclusive access to artisans and storytellers, and a meticulously crafted itinerary, this is more than just a tour, it’s an elevated celebration of fearless exploration. Whether you’re wandering through the eerie beauty of Bran Castle by lamplight, crafting intricate eggs in Bucovina with master artisans, or sharing a traditional home-hosted lunch in the Saxon village of Viscri, you’ll be forging connections, memories, and stories that are uniquely your own.
This is Romania in style – this is your invitation to a luxurious and exclusive Romanian adventure. Are you ready to embrace it?
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start your planning offline!
Signature Tour 
Welcome to Romania! Your adventure begins in its lively capital, Bucharest, a city steeped in diverse histories and cultures.
On arrival, you’ll be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Take time to relax and unwind after your journey before gathering for a beautiful welcome dinner to meet your fellow travellers.
This evening’s dinner takes place at Gramont Société Gastronomique, located within the historic Suter Palace. Combining historic elegance with contemporary culinary vision, the restaurant offers a refined introduction to Romanian cuisine, with carefully crafted dishes highlighting fresh local ingredients. (D)
Overnight – Grand Hotel Continental or similar
After breakfast, set off to explore the highlights of Bucharest, a city where history and modernity intertwine. Begin with a visit to the iconic Palace of the Parliament, one of the world’s largest administrative buildings. Marvel at its vast halls and ornate interiors while learning about its role during Romania’s communist era. Continue to the Spring Palace (Casa Ceaușescu), the former residence of Nicolae Ceaușescu. Admire the opulent interiors, private art collections, and distinctive architectural details of this extravagant home.
From here, continue to Bucharest’s lively Old Town, where cobblestone streets are lined with historic landmarks including Stavropoleos Monastery and Manuc’s Inn, alongside cafés and boutique shops that reflect the city’s vibrant character.
In the afternoon, visit a contemporary art gallery or creative hub where local artists and curators share insights into Romania’s modern artistic landscape and current creative movements.
Later, enjoy time at leisure. Those interested in shopping may wish to visit Băneasa Shopping City or stroll along Calea Victoriei, known for its mix of international brands, Romanian designers, and artisanal boutiques. Alternatively, return to the hotel or take a relaxed walk through one of Bucharest’s nearby parks. (B)
Overnight – Grand Hotel Continental or similar
After breakfast, depart Bucharest and journey into the Carpathian Mountains. Your first stop is Peleș Castle in Sinaia, the former summer residence of Romania’s royal family. Explore this remarkable palace, known for its intricate wood carvings, stained glass windows, and impressive art collections set against a dramatic mountain backdrop.
Continue to Cantacuzino Castle, an elegant estate overlooking the Bucegi Mountains. Here, enjoy a refined lunch paired with a Romanian wine tasting, combining regional cuisine with carefully selected local wines in a historic setting.
Later, arrive at your accommodation in the mountain town of Bușteni. Take time to settle in and enjoy the peaceful alpine surroundings. For those interested, an optional paddock-to-plate style dinner may be enjoyed at the hotel, showcasing locally sourced ingredients and seasonal flavours (not included). (B,L)
Overnight – Valedor Boutique Hotel or similar
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your accommodation before setting out to explore the region.
Travel to Brașov, a historic city nestled at the foot of the Carpathian Mountains. Explore the charming Old Town, where cobbled streets lead to Council Square (Piata Sfatului), surrounded by colourful baroque buildings. Visit the Black Church, the largest Gothic church in Eastern Europe, and walk along Rope Street, one of the narrowest streets in Europe. The city’s medieval Saxon heritage and mountain setting make it one of Transylvania’s most distinctive towns.
Continue with a visit to a local sheepfold to experience Romania’s longstanding pastoral traditions. Learn about the practice of transhumance, where shepherds move their flocks between seasonal pastures, and enjoy a tasting of traditional cheeses produced in the region.
In the evening, visit Bran Castle, widely known as Dracula’s Castle. As night falls and the castle is illuminated by lamplight, explore its atmospheric corridors and hidden rooms, including the Torture Room and the Time Tunnel. A wine tasting accompanies the visit, followed by dinner served in a private and atmospheric setting within the castle grounds. (B,L,D)
Overnight – Matca Hotel Relais & Châteaux or similar
After breakfast, depart Matca and travel deeper into the heart of Transylvania. The journey leads to Sighișoara, one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Explore the atmospheric citadel as you walk through its cobbled streets lined with colourful houses and centuries-old defensive towers. Visit the iconic Clock Tower, which has stood guard over the town for centuries, and learn about the town’s long history as well as its connection to Vlad the Impaler, the historical figure who inspired the Dracula legend.
Later, continue through the rolling countryside of Transylvania to Castle Daniel, a beautifully restored 17th century noble residence. Settle into this historic estate and enjoy the peaceful surroundings for the evening. (B)
Overnight – Daniel Castle or similar
Today offers a deeper immersion into the traditions and heritage of rural Transylvania as you journey to Viscri, one of the region’s most authentic Saxon villages and a UNESCO-listed heritage site.
Set amongst rolling hills and pastoral landscapes, Viscri is renowned for its beautifully preserved rural character and traditional way of life. During your visit, explore the village and its historic fortified church, an important example of Saxon defensive architecture that has stood at the centre of village life for centuries.
You will also spend time engaging with members of the local community, learning about their ongoing efforts to preserve traditional crafts, cultural practices, and sustainable rural living. These encounters provide insight into the enduring traditions that continue to shape everyday life in this region.
Enjoy a traditional home-hosted lunch prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients that reflect the flavours of Romanian village cuisine.
Return to Castle Daniel in the afternoon, where the remainder of the day is at leisure to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of this historic Transylvanian estate. (B,L)
Overnight – Daniel Castle or similar
Depart Castle Daniel and begin your journey towards the dramatic landscapes of Romania’s Eastern Carpathians.
Your first stop is Red Lake, a tranquil natural landmark surrounded by dense pine forests and mountain scenery. Formed by a landslide in 1838, the lake is known for the tree trunks that rise from its emerald waters, creating a distinctive and atmospheric landscape. Take time to walk along the lakeshore and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Continue to the Bicaz Gorges, one of Romania’s most striking natural formations. Carved by the Bicaz River, the narrow canyon is framed by towering limestone cliffs that rise steeply on either side of the winding road. Stop to admire the scenery, capture photographs, and take a short walk through this dramatic mountain setting.
Later, arrive in Piatra Neamț and settle into your accommodation for the evening. (B)
Overnight – Atlas Apart Hotel or similar
Begin your day with a scenic drive from Piatra Neamț to the picturesque village of Dolhești, set amidst the rolling hills of the Moldavian countryside. Here, you’ll meet a skilled cojocar—a master craftsman in the centuries-old art of fur and leatherwork. Gain insight into this intricate tradition as you observe the delicate techniques used to create exquisite, handcrafted garments, each piece reflecting a deep cultural heritage.
Following your workshop, enjoy a traditional homemade lunch made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. In the afternoon, journey onwards to Bucovina, a region celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and rich traditions. Settle into your accommodation and unwind ahead of tomorrow’s discoveries. (B,L)
Overnight – Sentir Hotel or similar
Today is dedicated to exploring the cultural and spiritual heritage of Bucovina, a region renowned for its UNESCO-listed painted monasteries.
Visit several of these remarkable monastic complexes, including Voroneț, Moldovița, Sucevița, and Humor. Famous for their vividly painted exterior frescoes, these monasteries represent some of the finest examples of Byzantine religious art. As you explore, learn about their historical significance, the symbolism within the artwork, and the role these monasteries have played in the region’s spiritual life for centuries.
Continue with a visit to nearby Hutsul villages, home to an ethnic community known for its distinctive traditions, crafts, and lifestyle. Walk through traditional settlements, observe the characteristic wooden houses, and gain insight into the customs that continue to shape everyday life in these mountain communities.
Later, visit the Vama Egg Museum, which houses an extensive collection of intricately decorated eggs from across the region. During a hands-on workshop, learn the traditional wax-resist technique used to create symbolic patterns and vibrant designs, producing your own painted egg to take home as a keepsake. (B)
Overnight – Sentir Hotel or similar
This morning, depart Bucovina and begin the journey west toward Cluj-Napoca, one of Transylvania’s most important cultural centres.
The drive passes through a variety of landscapes, from forested hills and mountain valleys to small rural villages that reflect the rhythm of life in this part of Romania. Along the way, there will be opportunities to pause for coffee and short breaks while enjoying views of the Carpathian countryside.
Arrive in Cluj-Napoca in the afternoon or early evening and check in to your hotel. The remainder of the evening is at leisure to relax after the day’s travel. (B)
Overnight – Radisson Blu Hotel or similar
Begin the day with breakfast before setting out to explore Cluj-Napoca, one of Transylvania’s cultural and historical centres. During a guided city tour, visit landmarks including St. Michael’s Church, one of the finest Gothic monuments in Romania, and Union Square, surrounded by baroque and neoclassical buildings. Continue to the Matthias Corvinus House, the birthplace of the Hungarian king Matthias Corvinus, before walking through the Old Town’s historic streets.
Later, depart for Sibiu, a city known for its Saxon heritage and well-preserved medieval architecture. Explore highlights of the historic centre including the Great Square (Piata Mare), the Bridge of Lies, and the surrounding Old Town streets.
Continue onward into the Carpathian Mountains to the village of Păltiniș, where your accommodation awaits. Surrounded by forested mountain scenery, Castelnor Paltinis offers a peaceful setting to relax after the day’s travels. The evening is at leisure. (B)
Overnight – Castelnor Paltinis or similar
Begin the morning with breakfast at your hotel in the Carpathian Mountains before departing for Bucharest.
The drive south passes through scenic mountain landscapes and rural countryside, offering time to reflect on the experiences of your journey through Romania.
Upon arrival in Bucharest, check in to your hotel and prepare for a special farewell evening. Tonight, enjoy a farewell dinner at Linea – Closer to the Moon, a stylish rooftop restaurant overlooking the city. With panoramic views across Bucharest’s skyline, the restaurant serves a contemporary European menu paired with expertly crafted cocktails, providing a memorable setting to celebrate the journey together. (B,D)
Overnight – Grand Hotel Continental or similar
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel this morning before preparing for your departure.
Depending on your flight time, there may be an opportunity for a short walk through the city or some last-minute shopping before leaving Bucharest. A private transfer will take you to the airport for your onward flight, bringing your Romanian journey to a close. (B)
Download this tour’s PDF brochure and start your planning offline!
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Enquire About a Private Option**Please note that this tour can be organised on request for private departures.
* Pricing is subject to change at anytime until full payment has been received.
* A minimum of 4 adults is required to guarantee this departure.
A non-refundable deposit of $1000 AUD per person is required to secure your place. Final payment is due no later than 60 days prior to departure. Travel insurance is mandatory for travelling with Crooked Compass. For full terms and conditions, please click here.
Small group tours providing intimate connections to gain a deeper understanding and emotional connection to the community, tribes, cultures and lands explored.
Exploring the world’s most remote reaches and challenging destinations requires a high level of expertise which can only be learned from first-hand experience. We know because we go.
In an ever-changing global landscape of rules, regulations and restrictions, rest-assured you are being looked after by those in the know. Given the remote regions that we explore, our passengers safety is our top priority.
Stay up to date with the latest travel trends and new destinations opening up. To be the first to go, you need to be the first to know.
Travel professionals are welcome. For partnerships or agent enquiries, we recommend contacting us directly.
This category of tours involves light trekking, walking, cycling, rafting or kayaking for a few hours each day with a small amount of inclines and declines. You will require a reasonable level of fitness and good health to participate. It is important to note that due to the nature of some of our trips, they may take place in remote areas (with basic facilities) and can involve long travelling days on various modes of transport.
Suggested preparation : At least 3 months prior to departure, it is recommended that you undertake aerobic exercise (this may include jogging, cycling or fast walking) for 30 minutes, three times a week. It is also advised to walk on variable terrain and in variable weather conditions. For a cycling adventure, road cycling twice a week is recommended and for adventures which involve paddling and kayaking, it is important to gain confidence and rhythm rather than speed prior to departure.
This category of tours involve trekking, kayaking and cycling for period of 6 to 8 hours a day at a fairly consistent pace. Ideal for people looking to slightly increase the heart rate. For our moderately rated tours, you must have a good level of fitness and also be in good health. It is also important to be prepared for variable weather conditions. Altitude may also come into play. This category of tours may involve visiting remote areas where facilities can be quite basic. Accommodation may also involve camping, homestays or basic accommodation where facilities may not be considered of western standards. To enjoy this style of travel, it is suggested for travellers to have a reasonable level of fitness and health, a positive attitude, as well as a fairly active lifestyle. An open mind is also required.
Suggested preparation: At least 3 months prior to departure, it is recommended that you undertake 45mins – 1 hour of aerobic exercise, three to four times a week. Some potential exercises that could be beneficial include hill walking with a backpack on over variable terrain and weather conditions, as well as running and cycling dependent on the activity you plan on undertaking.
This category of tours involves trekking, kayaking, cycling or other adventure activities in remote areas for up to 8 to 10 hours a day. It is important to note that with the remoteness of some regions comes a variety of other challenges such as variable weather conditions, accommodation as well as facilities. You must have an excellent level of fitness and good health to be able to partake in this category of tour. You must have confidence in your own ability and be in good physical condition. Includes extended periods of endurance.
Suggested preparation: At least 3 to 4 months of strenuous exercise, four times a week. When preparing for treks it would be beneficial to participate in hill walks with a weighted day pack (approximately 5-8 kg) once a week for aerobic fitness and strengthening of leg muscles. It is also important to do this on variable terrain to prepare for challenging adventures. When preparing for cycling adventures, regular bike riding (at least 4 to 5 times a week for 1-4 hours is essential). It is also important to cycle on uneven surfaces or even participate in other aerobic exercises such as running or swimming to build up strength and stamina. Altitude may also be a factor in these tours.
This category of tour often involves extreme trekking, cycling or other extreme adventure activities. It is important to expect remote and poorly defined tracks and to be prepared for variable weather conditions for 10 to 12 hours per day (may sometimes be more depending on weather and altitude). These adventures are suitable for travellers who have prior experience in strenuous travel and activities, are extremely fit and have excellent health. It is also important to note that some of the terrain on these adventures will involve trekking in snow, at high attitude levels and may require technical equipment.
Suggested preparation: It is important to note that physical fitness should be an ongoing activity, commencing around 5-6 months prior to departure, or even before if you have no prior fitness. Exercise should focus on building maximum endurance and stamina. Four to five hard sessions of 40-60 mins per week should be completed and can include exercises such as going to the gym, running, swimming or cycling to focus on building aerobic stamina. It could also be beneficial to prepare by hiking on rough terrain, in extreme weather conditions or partake in altitude training.
Our Signature Tours are the cornerstone of the Crooked Compass journey: meticulously designed small-group itineraries that balance authenticity, comfort, and ease. These are destinations where travel can be complex—from navigating evolving logistics to reaching places far from the usual tourist path—yet our expertise ensures your experience feels smooth, effortless, and deeply rewarding.
From the moment you arrive, every detail is handled with care. You’re welcomed personally on arrival and met for a private transfer to your accommodation, where you’ll join the rest of your group. Your guide will walk you through an orientation, helping you understand the rhythm of the journey ahead and settling you in with clear, practical insights from the very start.
Accommodation is selected for both comfort and character, reflecting the richness of its locality through thoughtful design, creative ingenuity, and a genuine sense of place. Whether it’s a boutique property, a sustainable lodge or a homestay, each choice is made to connect you meaningfully with the destination.
Cultural integration sits at the heart of our approach. Every itinerary is crafted with respect for local communities, aligning sensitively with their values and protecting the authenticity of their culture. Through this, travellers experience a deeper connection —stories shared firsthand, traditions encountered in their true context, and moments that shift perspectives long after returning home.
With a maximum of 12 travellers and our most trusted local partners, you explore with confidence, guided by teams who combine deep regional knowledge with an intuitive understanding of Western traveller expectations. Through the powerful medium of storytelling, our journeys inspire personal reflection and spark genuine emotion, turning travel into something transformative.
For travellers seeking even more flexibility or personalisation, our Tours By Design journeys are crafted with the same care — mindfully designed around your interests for a more tailored experience.
Why travellers love our Signature Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.
Our Founders Tours are rare, one-of-a-kind journeys personally hosted by Crooked Compass founder, Lisa Pagotto. Designed for the traveller who seeks more than just adventure, these exclusive small-group expeditions uncover places few have ever seen – experiences not featured in our regular collection, chosen for their depth, beauty, and story.
Each itinerary is hand-crafted by Lisa to offer meaningful connection and unique access built through years of trust and collaboration with local communities. Travelling alongside her gives you an unparalleled perspective into the world of ethical exploration – from the behind-the-scenes partnerships that shape our journeys, to the human stories that inspire them.
With an intimate group size and seamless support from our expert team, a Founders Tour is less a trip, and more a masterclass in discovery.
Why travellers love Founders Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.
Set sail on a rare journey across remote islands, wild coastlines, and untouched ecosystems aboard a small, luxury expedition vessel. Travelling by sea unlocks access to places few travellers ever reach – from isolated villages and pristine reefs to dramatic landscapes that can’t be accessed by land – while each evening, you return to the comfort of your beautifully appointed cabin.
These voyages blend adventure with refinement. Expert-led excursions bring you face-to-face with raw nature and vibrant cultures, while exceptional onboard dining, service, and comfort allow time to unwind and reflect.
To complete your experience, Crooked Compass can seamlessly craft pre- or post-cruise land extensions, ensuring your journey flows effortlessly from sea to shore.
Why travellers love our Expedition Cruises:
More about out Tour Styles.
Our Tours by Design experiences are private journeys curated exclusively for you by the Crooked Compass team. Whether you’re drawn to one of our existing itineraries, wish to adapt a small-group tour for private travel, or want to design something entirely new, we’ll craft a journey that reflects your pace, passions, and sense of discovery.
Why pay for inclusions that don’t fit? With Tours by Design, every detail is intentional – from the destinations and experiences to your style of travel and choice of accommodation. Each itinerary is hand-built through our deep local partnerships and expertise, ensuring authenticity, comfort, and connection in every moment.
Why travellers love Tours by Design:
More about our Tour Styles.
Our Partner Tours are carefully chosen group journeys operated by our long-standing, in-country partners — experts who share our values of authenticity, cultural respect, and meaningful connection. These departures, averaging between 17 and 22 travellers, are designed and delivered by our partners, while Crooked Compass manages your booking and provides full support from start to finish.
Enjoy the reassurance of booking through an Australian-based company, delivering our same personalised service and attention to detail you expect from Crooked Compass. We take care of the logistics, so you can focus on what matters most – the journey itself.
Why travellers love our Partner Tours:
More about our Tour Styles.
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