Private Tour - Top Gear Road, Transfăgărășan Highway
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Private Tour - Top Gear Road, Transfăgărășan Highway

Active
(2 reviews)
12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Embark on an unforgettable Private Tour along Romania’s most spectacular road – the Transfăgărășan Highway, hailed by Top Gear as the best driving road in the world.
Our adventure begins with a visit to the stunning Curtea de Argeș Monastery, a landmark of Romanian history and architecture, where kings and queens now rest.
From there, we head towards the ruins of Poenari Fortress, perched dramatically above the Argeș River Valley. We’ll stop to admire the fortress from below and hear its connection to Vlad the Impaler, the real Dracula.
Next, we wind our way up the mountains to the impressive Vidraru Dam, a massive hydro-engineering structure offering panoramic views.
The journey continues higher into the Făgăraș Mountains, with stops at scenic viewpoints before reaching the breathtaking Bâlea Lake (open only from June to October), nestled at over 2,000 meters altitude.
Before descending, we’ll also stop to admire Capra Waterfall – a beautiful cascade surrounded by unspoiled nature.

Available options

Private tour in English

Only your group will participa<br/>Pickup included

Private tour in English

Only your group will participa<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation
Hotel Pickup in Bucharest
Air-conditioned vehicle
Professional tour guide in English

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Curtea de Argeș Monastery is one of the most famous and historically significant religious sites in Romania.
A masterpiece of Byzantine and Romanian Orthodox architecture, with Moorish, Gothic, and Renaissance influences.

It serves as a burial place for Romanian royalty, including:
• King Carol I and Queen Elisabeth
• King Ferdinand and Queen Marie

2

Poenari Citadel is a medieval fortress located on a steep cliff in the Făgăraș Mountains, near the town of Arefu, Romania. It is famously associated with Vlad the Impaler (Vlad Țepeș), the 15th-century ruler of Wallachia, who is often linked to the Dracula legend.
Here we will not be able to enter the fortress but we will see it from the outside.

3

Vidraru Dam and Lake, located in Romania's Făgăraș Mountains, is a stunning hydro-engineering marvel completed in 1966. The curved arch dam, standing 166 meters high, creates Vidraru Lake, a serene reservoir surrounded by lush forests and dramatic peaks. A popular destination for tourists, it offers breathtaking views, boating, and serves as a gateway to the Transfăgărășan Road.

4
Stop 4

The Transfăgărășan Highway, often called one of the world’s most scenic roads, winds through Romania’s Făgăraș Mountains in the Carpathians. Built in the 1970s, this dramatic route features sharp hairpin turns, sweeping curves, and breathtaking views of rugged peaks, valleys, and waterfalls. A favorite for road trips, it connects Transylvania to Wallachia and offers iconic landmarks like Balea Lake and Poenari Fortress along the way.

5
Stop 5

Bâlea Lake is a glacial lake situated at an altitude of about 2,000 meters (6,561 feet), it is one of the highest lakes in the country. The lake is known for its stunning natural beauty, surrounded by rugged peaks, dense forests, and alpine meadows.
Bâlea Lake is easily accessible in the summer and autumn months via the Transfăgărășan Highway.

6

Capra Waterfall (Romanian: Cascada Capra, also known as Goat Waterfall) is a stunning natural attraction located in the Făgăraș Mountains, near the Transfăgărășan road in Romania. It is one of the most picturesque waterfalls in the region and a popular stop for travelers exploring the scenic landscapes of the Carpathians.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Access to Balea Lake can only be made from June to October. In winter and spring, the last 8 km cannot be covered due to heavy snow and avalanche risk

About Bucharest

Bucharest, the capital of Romania, is a vibrant city known for its blend of historic architecture and modern development. With a rich cultural scene, lively nightlife, and significant historical landmarks, it offers a unique experience for travelers.

Top Attractions

Palace of the Parliament

One of the largest administrative buildings in the world, a symbol of communist architecture and power.

Historical/Architecture 2-3 hours €7-10

Old Town (Lipscani)

The historic center of Bucharest, filled with charming streets, cafes, restaurants, and nightlife.

Historical/Cultural Half-day Free to explore

Village Museum (Muzeul Satului)

An open-air museum showcasing traditional Romanian village life with authentic houses and buildings.

Cultural 2-3 hours €3-5

Must-Try Local Dishes

Sarmale

Cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat, rice, and spices, usually served with polenta and sour cream

Main Course Contains meat and gluten

Mămăligă

Polenta made from cornmeal, often served with cheese, sour cream, or meat dishes

Side Dish Vegetarian, gluten-free

Ciorbă

A sour soup made with various ingredients such as meat, vegetables, or fish, often served with a boiled egg and sour cream

Soup Can be vegetarian or with meat

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Carpathian Mountains Skiing in Poiana Brașov Spa treatments Strolling through Herăstrău Park Visiting museums and art galleries Attending classical concerts at the Romanian Athenaeum Boating on Lake Herăstrău Skiing

Best Time to Visit

June to August

This is the warmest time of the year with the most outdoor activities and festivals. However, it can be crowded with tourists.

20°C to 30°C 68°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Romanian
  • Widely spoken: English, French
  • English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Romanian Leu (RON)

Time Zone

GMT+2 (EET), GMT+3 (EEST) during daylight saving time

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in certain areas

Bucharest is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas. Be cautious at night and avoid poorly lit streets.

Important Precautions:
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
  • • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
  • • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with unsolicited offers or requests

Getting there

By air
  • Henri Coandă International Airport • 16.7 km (10.4 miles) from city center
  • Aurel Vlaicu International Airport • 8 km (5 miles) from city center
By train

Gara de Nord, Băneasa

By bus

Autogara Nord, Autogara Sud

Getting around

Public transport

Clean, efficient, and affordable. The metro system is the fastest way to get around Bucharest.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Old Town (Lipscani) Dorobanți Cotroceni

Day trips

Peleș Castle
120 km (75 miles) • Full day

A stunning neo-Renaissance castle nestled in the Carpathian Mountains, once the summer residence of the Romanian royal family.

Bran Castle
160 km (100 miles) • Full day

A medieval fortress often associated with Dracula, offering a glimpse into Romania's rich history and folklore.

Sinaia
120 km (75 miles) • Full day

A beautiful mountain town known for its stunning landscapes, historic sites, and outdoor activities.

Festivals

Bucharest International Film Festival (BIFF) • April George Enescu Festival • September Bucharest Pride • June

Pro tips

  • Learn a few basic Romanian phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
  • Explore beyond the tourist hotspots to discover hidden gems and local culture
  • Use public transport or walk to get a sense of the city's rhythm and avoid traffic
  • Try local street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience
  • Visit major attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 7-99
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 8
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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