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Middle East
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Eastern Europe
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North America
Oceana
What’s new?
be inspired
why gil travel
Middle East
Western Europe
Eastern Europe
Latin America
Asia/ South Pacific/ Africa
North America
Oceana
Suitable for Family, Group, Senior
OVERVIEW
Embark on a unique 7-day adventure through the Jewish community of Romania, designed to combine the profound history of its Jewish communities with the breathtaking, legendary landscapes of Transylvania. Your journey begins in the south, in Bucharest, where you will dive into the history of “Little Jerusalem, Bucharest.” Key visits include the magnificent Choral Temple (Templul Coral) and the Jewish Community Historical Museum, offering a deep look into the pre-war vitality, the endurance through the Communist era, and the sobering truth of the Bucharest Holocaust Memorial. The focus in the capital is on the remarkable resilience and the continued efforts to preserve the Jewish legacy in the region of Wallachia.
The second part of the tour shifts to the historic region of Transylvania, where Jewish heritage sites in cities like Brașov or Sighișoara reveal the unique Ashkenazi and Neolog life that flourished under different historical rulers. Here, the itinerary provides a powerful cultural contrast with a visit to the iconic Bran Castle (widely known as Dracula’s Castle), immersing you in the medieval history and folklore that shaped the region. Throughout the journey, from the capital to the regional centers, you will seek out opportunities for community encounters with the Federation of Jewish Communities in Romania (FEDROM) and local members, ensuring you gain a direct perspective on the future and ongoing efforts of Jewish life today. This 7-day tour perfectly blends deep historical reflection with unforgettable cultural and architectural exploration.
Highlights*
*Some experiences are subject to minimum group size
Arrive at Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP) and transfer to your hotel. The afternoon is reserved for settling in. The evening begins your cultural immersion with a Welcome Dinner featuring traditional Romanian cuisine, setting the stage for the week’s historical and cultural discoveries in Wallachia.
The day focuses on the heart of the former Jewish quarter. You will visit the impressive Choral Temple (Templul Coral), a powerful symbol of Jewish continuity. Following this, you will visit the solemn Bucharest Holocaust Memorial and the Jewish Community Historical Museum (located in the Unirea Sfântă Temple), which archives the rich history and periods of persecution faced by Romanian Jews.
The morning is dedicated to community engagement, where you will meet with representatives from the Federation of Jewish Communities in Romania (FEDROM) to discuss the current state of Jewish life and heritage preservation efforts. After lunch, you will begin your scenic transfer north into the mountainous region of Transylvania, arriving and checking into your hotel in the Brașov area.
Today offers a striking cultural contrast. You will visit the legendary Bran Castle (Dracula’s Castle), immersing yourself in the medieval history and folklore of the region. Following the castle, you will explore the city of Brașov, known for its Gothic architecture, including the famous Black Church and the Council Square, highlighting the Saxon influence in Transylvania.
The focus returns to Jewish history as you explore the specific heritage sites of Transylvania. You will visit the local Brașov Synagogue (or another prominent regional synagogue like Sighișoara, depending on the itinerary flow) and explore the historic Jewish cemetery, learning about the distinct Ashkenazi and Neolog communities that thrived under Austro-Hungarian rule. The afternoon includes exploration of Brașov’s medieval bastions and picturesque streets.
After breakfast, you will take the scenic drive back to Bucharest. The afternoon offers a final immersion into the broader Romanian culture, perhaps through a visit to the outdoor Village Museum, which showcases traditional rural architecture, or a cultural lecture. The evening culminates with a Farewell Dinner, celebrating the diverse history and experiences of the trip.
Enjoy a final breakfast in Bucharest. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for last-minute souvenir shopping or a brief reflective walk. You will then be transferred to Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP) for your departure, concluding your comprehensive journey through Romania.
Accommodation
Located in an area of historic and national interest, JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel in Romania is the only 5 star business hotel in the district and is in close proximity to the stately Palace of Parliament and People’s Salvation Cathedral.
*Star rating standards vary from country to country.
This experience is fully customizable. We will create your personal dream experience!
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