What’s new?
be inspired
why gil travel
Middle East
Western Europe
Eastern Europe
Latin America
Asia/ South Pacific/ Africa
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 moving and illuminating Jewish heritage tour of Bucharest, Romania, to explore the history of one of the largest and most vibrant Jewish communities that once thrived in Eastern Europe. This journey invites you to discover the rich cultural heritage, the profound impact of the Holocaust, and the remarkable revival of Jewish life in the Romanian capital. We will explore the historic neighborhoods defined by Bucharest’s Jewish history—once known as “Little Jerusalem” Romania and home to over 70 synagogues—visiting key sites that recall the immense pre-war Jewish vitality and the resilience demonstrated during the Communist regimes. Our itinerary includes important memorials and museums, such as the Jewish Community Historical Museum and the Bucharest Holocaust Memorial, which offer an honest and emotional perspective on the community’s challenges and losses.
The tour emphasizes the enduring continuity of Jewish life through a visit to the impressive Choral Temple Bucharest (Templul Coral), one of the city’s largest and most active synagogues, which stands as a powerful symbol of faith and culture. Furthermore, we will seek opportunities to connect directly with the community by meeting with leaders of the Federation of Jewish Communities in Romania (FEDROM). This engagement allows us to hear firsthand about heritage preservation efforts and the current life of the community, exploring how Sephardic and Ashkenazi cultures merged at this crucial European crossroads. This journey offers a vital look at Eastern European Jewry, post-Holocaust resilience, and Balkan culture. We invite you to walk the historic streets and witness the enduring spirit of the Romanian Jewish community!
Highlights*
*Some experiences are subject to minimum group size
Upon arrival at Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP), you will be transferred to your hotel for check-in and an initial briefing about the week ahead. The afternoon is dedicated to settling in before the evening’s Welcome Dinner. This dinner will feature a taste of traditional Romanian cuisine, setting the stage for your journey through a city that was once home to one of Europe’s most populous Jewish communities.
The day begins with a visit to the magnificent Choral Temple (Templul Coral), one of Bucharest’s largest and most active synagogues, which stands as a powerful symbol of the continuity of Jewish faith. After experiencing this architectural and spiritual landmark, we proceed to the solemn Bucharest Holocaust Memorial. Here, we reflect on the immense losses and the unique challenges faced by the Romanian Jewish community during and after the war. The rest of the afternoon is spent exploring the area, contrasting the grand old city with its historical memory.
Today, we dive into the heart of what was once known as “Little Jerusalem.” Our key visit is to the Jewish Community Historical Museum, housed within the beautiful Unirea Sfântă Temple. This museum offers rich archives and exhibits detailing Jewish life, culture, art, and the history of persecution in Romania. The rest of the day involves walking through the former Jewish quarters, seeing the remnants of old synagogues and community buildings, allowing you to visualize the scale and vitality of the community that once thrived here.
The focus shifts to the contemporary community as we meet with leaders from the Federation of Jewish Communities in Romania (FEDROM). This crucial encounter provides a direct perspective on the current state of Jewish life, efforts in heritage preservation, and the future of the community. In the afternoon, we step into the broader Romanian culture, perhaps by visiting the Village Museum or participating in a local market visit, followed by a Farewell Dinner. This final meal will be a celebration of the community’s resilience and the cultural knowledge gained throughout the trip.
Enjoy a final breakfast in Bucharest. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a last visit to a local market or a final cup of coffee overlooking the city. You will then be transferred to Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP) for your departure, concluding your profound journey into the heritage of the Romanian Jewish community.
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!
Start your adventure here
Search for something…
Contact us by sending a message
We always aim to reply within 1 business day.
Get updates on new programs, travel tips, and new inspirations!
