Born in Vienna, Alex Koller is an expert in art history and architecture, with a particular interest in the cultural and artistic heritage of Europe. He has lived and studied in Vienna, Salzburg and Cambridge, gaining his PhD in the history of art from Magdalene College, Cambridge. His academic background, combined with a deep understanding of European culture, enables him to bring history vividly to life, exploring the stories, people and influences behind the art and architecture encountered along the way. Alex’s knowledge and insight offer an engaging perspective on the places and cultures he explores.
Romania: Legends of Transylvania
| Start date | End date | Days |
Prices from
ex. flights |
Single Supplement | Tour Expert | Group Size | Status | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24/04/28 | 04/05/28 | 11 days | £4,275 pp | £650 | Alex Koller | 15 Max | AVAILABLE | Reserve place |
There is a beguiling quality to Romania, where the landscapes, architecture and traditions can feel wonderfully removed from modern Europe. Led by Alex Koller, this journey travels through the forested Carpathian Mountains and into Transylvania, where medieval towns, fortified churches and hilltop castles reveal centuries of Saxon, Hungarian and Romanian influence.
Cobbled streets lead to quiet squares, while beyond the towns lie farming villages where traditional ways of life remain part of the everyday. From painted monasteries and Gothic churches to local markets and regional food, this journey offers an intimate sense of place and a chance to discover a country whose history, folklore and culture remain vividly alive.
Introducing your expert
Alex Koller
Key Highlights of this Itinerary
Steppes Exclusive
Expert led by Alex Koller, this small group tour is exclusive to Steppes clients.
Cultural Heritage
From Saxon fortified churches and Gothic architecture to local food, folklore and old traditions.
Carpathian Landscapes
Pass forested mountains, rolling countryside and rural villages.
Painted Monasteries
Vivid frescoes and intricate religious art tell stories dating back hundreds of years.
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Day 1
Suceava
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Day 2
Suceava
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Day 3
Suceava
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Day 4
Suceava to Sighisoara
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Day 5
Sighisoara to Brasov
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Day 6
Brasov
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Day 7
Brasov to Sibiu
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Day 8
Sibiu
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Day 9
Sibiu to Cluj Napoca
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Day 10
Cluj Napoca
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Day 11
Cluj Napoca
Day 1
Suceava
Arrive Suceava airport at mid-day where you will be met upon arrival. This afternoon you will visit the Monastery of St John the New, a UNESCO-listed religious complex and one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Romania.
Day 2
Suceava
Explore Suceava, visiting St George’s Church, the former metropolitan cathedral of Moldavia, the medieval Cetatea de Scaun fortress and St Demetrius Church. After lunch, travel north to Patrauti Monastery, one of the smallest churches built under Stephen the Great, before continuing to the fortified Dragomirna Monastery. Admire its striking Renaissance architecture, soaring vaulted interior and museum.
Day 3
Suceava
Visit the painted monasteries of Voronet, Humor and Arbore, renowned for their colourful frescoes. After a traditional Bucovinian lunch, continue to Sucevita Monastery, known for its fortified walls, green frescoes and ‘Jacob’s Ladder’ mural.
Day 4
Suceava to Sighisoara
Visit Piatra Neamt’s archaeological museum before travelling through the dramatic Bicaz Gorge and past Lacu Rosu. Stop for a traditional Szekely lunch in Lazarea, then continue south to Sighisoara for the night.
Day 5
Sighisoara to Brasov
Explore the medieval citadel of Sighisoara, including its Clock Tower and Gothic Church on the Hill. Continue through rural Transylvania to the UNESCO-listed village of Viscri for a local lunch and visits to its fortified church and King Charles’ house, before travelling on to Brasov.
Day 6
Brasov
Explore Brasov’s medieval old town, visiting the Black Church and Council Square, before lunch overlooking the city from Mount Tampa. Continue to the historic Schei district and St Nicholas Church, with the option to visit Prejmer’s impressive fortified Saxon church.
Day 7
Brasov to Sibiu
Travel west to Sibiu, one of Transylvania’s finest Saxon cities. Explore its colourful old town, medieval squares and fortifications, visiting the 15th-century Evangelical Church and Brukenthal Museum, home to one of Romania’s finest art collections.
Day 8
Sibiu
Visit the UNESCO-listed fortified churches of Biertan and Valea Viilor, two impressive examples of Transylvania’s Saxon heritage. Meet a traditional coppersmith family in Brateiu and stroll through medieval Medias before returning to Sibiu.
Day 9
Sibiu to Cluj Napoca
Travel to Cluj-Napoca, stopping at the UNESCO-listed fortress of Calnic and the medieval town of Sebes. Continue to Alba Iulia to explore its impressive Baroque citadel and enjoy lunch within the fortress, before travelling onwards to Cluj-Napoca.
Day 10
Cluj Napoca
Explore Cluj-Napoca’s historic centre, visiting St Michael’s Church and the remains of the old citadel. In the afternoon, travel to Bontida to visit Banffy Castle, the former seat of one of Transylvania’s most influential noble families.
Day 11
Cluj Napoca
Early morning transfer to Cluj Napoca airport for your flight back home.
'The Land Beyond the Forest'
Transylvania
Encircled by the Carpathian Mountains, Transylvania is a region of forested valleys, medieval towns and enduring traditions. Beyond its associations with folklore and legend lies a rich cultural landscape, shaped over centuries by Romanian, Saxon and Hungarian influences. Cobbled streets, fortified churches and colourful old houses give way to rural villages and rolling countryside, where traditional farming practices remain part of daily life. Atmospheric and layered with history, Transylvania offers a fascinating glimpse into one of Europe’s most distinctive and quietly compelling regions.
The Legend of Dracula
Sighisoara
Rising above the Tarnava Mare River, Sighisoara is one of Transylvania’s most atmospheric medieval towns. Within its UNESCO-listed citadel, cobbled lanes wind between colourful houses, ancient towers and hidden courtyards, all enclosed by centuries-old walls. The town is also closely associated with Vlad the Impaler, the historical figure who inspired the legend of Dracula. Climb the covered Scholars’ Stairs, wander beneath the striking Clock Tower and enjoy sweeping views across the rooftops and surrounding Transylvanian countryside beyond.
Medieval Cities
Brasov
Framed by the Carpathian Mountains, Brasov is a handsome medieval city with Baroque façades and lively squares. At its heart stands the imposing Black Church, named after the Great Fire of 1689, which is said to have blackened its walls. Legend adds a curious twist: when the Pied Piper led the children from Hamelin, they are said to have vanished underground, only to emerge far away in Transylvania, close to Brasov’s Council Square.
Includes / Excludes
Important Information
Activity Level
Moderate Activity
Single Supplement
Travelling on your own? Our group tours are perfect for solo travellers, as travelling as part of an organised group in faraway places provides security and peace of mind. We handle all of the arrangements for you and there will be a local tour guide on hand throughout to provide advice and help if needed, as well as the expertise of a Tour expert.
Flexibility
To allow flexibility, our group tours do not include international flights as standard. We can arrange international flights on your behalf, please get in touch with our travel experts for a quote. All international flights from the UK are ATOL protected.
What is included
- Accompanied by Alex Koller throughout the group tour
- Daily English speaking guide
- Accommodation
- Group transfers
- Meals as outlined in the itinerary
- Entrance fees to sites included in the itinerary
What is excluded
- International flights
- Visa (if required)
- Gratuities
- Items of personal expenditure
- Alcoholic beverages
- Travel insurance
Other available dates
For further information about any of these tours please call 01285 880 980
| Start date | End date | Days |
Prices from
ex. flights |
Tour Expert | Group Size | Status | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24/04/28 | 04/05/28 | 11 days | £4,275 pp | Alex Koller | 15 Max | AVAILABLE | Reserve place |
Reserve your place on this tour
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