Sacred Monasteries Private Tour: Snagov, Țigănești & Căldărușani
Description
Explore the monahal heritage surrounding Bucharest: Snagov, Caldarusani and Tiganesti Monastery. Escape Bucharest surrounding and immerse yourself in Romania’s rich history and spiritual heritage on this exclusive private tour. Journey through the scenic countryside north of Bucharest, where medieval legends, centuries-old monasteries, and landscapes come together to create an unforgettable experience. Why Choose This Tour? • Historical and Religious Exploration – Gain insight into Romania’s legendary past, Orthodox heritage, and medieval architecture. • Peaceful and Scenic Experience – Visit tranquil monasteries surrounded by lakes, forests, and countryside charm. • Comfort and Flexibility – Enjoy a personalized tour with opportunities for photo stops, coffee breaks, and in-depth discussions tailored to your interests. Book your private guided tour today and step into the history, faith, and legends of Romania’s enchanting countryside.
Tour Options
Itinerary
One of the most important monuments of orthodox architecture, this monastery was built in 1840. A peaceful place surrounded by a forest, an entire village only for the nuns. The interior of the church was nicely renovated, gardens are well kept by the nuns. Here you can also find a fragment of the Holy Cross.
Built around the 1408 in Byzantine architecture with Romanian impressions, this monastery sits on a small island in the north part of lake Snagov. During his reign time, Vlad Tepes added more improvements to the monastery including a fortified stonewall and the narrow bridge to the main land that is used by visitors in present day. One of the important scholars of the time, Antim Ivireanul published here the first Romanian books using the Latin alphabet letters. Some historians state that after his assassination in the treacherous act of his boyars in the battle at Codrii Vlasiei (Forests of Vlasia) nearby Snagov, the body of Vlad Tepes Dracula was brought to the monastery and secretly buried in the orthodox tradition. Nowadays, visitors of the Snagov monastery can see the tomb funeral stone laying in front of the altar that is said to be the daytime resting place of Dracula.
Discover the impressive Căldărușani Monastery, a spiritual haven founded in the 17th century by Wallachian ruler Matei Basarab. Nestled by a tranquil lake, this fortified monastery has played a crucial role in Romania’s religious history, serving as a center of monastic life and Orthodox learning. Admire its historic frescoes, old manuscripts, and the serene atmosphere where monks continue centuries-old traditions. During your visit, explore the monastery's fascinating Icons Museum, home to a remarkable collection of religious artworks that showcase Romania’s rich Orthodox heritage.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
Your guide will meet you in front of your hotel at the time you requred.
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Reviews(35)
The monasteries were gorgeous and it was very cool to see the similarities/differences in architecture across different time periods. We went on a Friday so everything was open to walk around. Our tour guide Tony was phenomenal! He was very knowledgeable about the topics, gave us time to take lots of photos, and was very easy to talk to. He was also very accommodating and took us to a coffee shop for drinks when we mentioned being sleepy. We loved him so much, we booked him for a second tour with him to take us around Bucharest. He even gave us Itinerary tips for the rest of our 2 week trip. Would highly recommend you book a tour with Tony!!
We had such a great time with our guide Tony. He is extremely knowledgeable and provided a lot of interesting facts about Romania in general as well as the Monestaries we visited. I particularly was very interested in the transition of Romania from Communism to being a Democratic government and he answered all my questions. Tony speaks English very well and is an excellent and careful driver. He does other types of tours as well. Both my friend and I would highly recommend hiring him to see the sights around the country.
Dear Rosemary, Thank you very much for your thoughtful review! We’re truly happy to hear that your Sacred Monasteries Tour was such a positive experience and that the journey matched your expectations. It’s especially great to know that the historical context you were interested in—Romania’s transition from communism to democracy—added value to the visit. These conversations are always a meaningful part of the tour for us as well, and we’re glad they resonated with you. We also appreciate your kind words about the driving, communication, and overall experience. It was a pleasure guiding you both, and we would be delighted to welcome you again for more explorations around Romania. Just book with us whenever you return — there’s still so much more to discover together. Warm regards, Toni from Crafted Tours Romania
My partner and I had an excellent experience with Toni! He was very knowledgeable, courteous, prompt, and patient. He arrived at our hotel right on time and the drive to each monastery was very smooth. We learned so much about each point of interest and Toni was eager to answer all of our questions. This private tour was easily one of the highlights of our trip, and we look forward to touring with Toni again in the future. Highly recommended!
Dear Tala, Thank you so much for your wonderful words! We’re truly happy to hear that your Sacred Monasteries Tour was a highlight of your trip. It was a pleasure guiding you through the peaceful atmospheres of Snagov, Căldărușani, and Tiganesti, and we’re glad the stories, history, and smooth journey made the day memorable for you both. Your appreciation means a lot, and we’re grateful you noticed the care we put into punctuality, comfort, and sharing local insights. We would be delighted to welcome you back and explore more of Romania together—whenever you return, just book with us and we’ll craft another beautiful experience for you. Warm regards, Crafted Tours Romania
My original tour with another company was canceled last minute. I found this tour and am so glad how things worked out! Toni was a great guide and incredibly knowledgeable. It felt more like I was being shown around by a friend than a tour guide. I highly recommend any of his tours. If I were here longer, I'd do another
Dear Traveler, We’re truly happy to hear that your change of plans led you to join us! Thank you for sharing such a lovely review. Toni takes great pride in creating friendly, relaxed, and insightful experiences, so it’s wonderful to know the Sacred Monasteries tour felt both personal and enriching. We hope you’ll visit Romania again — there’s always another fascinating place to explore with Crafted Tours Romania. Warm wishes, The Crafted Tours Romania Team
Fabulous day with an incredible host. Toni was the perfect guide - he was: communicative in arranging pickup; exceptionally organized; considerate of our needs; and, provided the right amount of history. This was a great way to spend our day! We’ve done a lot of Viator tours … this is one of the best. Do yourself a favor … this tour should be on your ‘Must Do’ when visiting Bucharest.
Dear Traveler, Thank you so much for your fantastic review! We’re delighted to hear that your day visiting Snagov, Kiganesti, and Caldarusani monasteries was enjoyable and well-organized. Toni will be thrilled to know you appreciated his communication, flexibility, and historical insights — he truly aims to make every tour smooth and memorable. It’s wonderful to hear that you consider this one of the best tours you’ve experienced. Your recommendation will surely help other travelers discover the beauty and history of these sacred sites. We hope to welcome you back for another inspiring day in Bucharest soon! Warm regards, Crafted Tours Romania
Enjoyed a beautiful day exploring the scenic countryside around Bucharest. The three monasteries we visited were peaceful and beautiful. The artwork is incredible. Our guide, Toni, was outstanding. He provided the right amount of history to help us understand the ornate and beautiful art, but also provided insight into the rich history and current happenings in Romania. Toni was considerate, incredibly well-organized, and just a great host. We’re so glad we did this tour. It far exceeded our expectations. Truly, a perfect day!!
Dear Traveler, Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re delighted to hear that your day exploring Snagov, Kiganesti, and Caldarusani monasteries was so enjoyable. It’s wonderful that the peaceful beauty of the monasteries and their incredible artwork made such an impression. Toni will be thrilled to know you appreciated his knowledge, organization, and thoughtful guidance. It’s always our goal to create smooth, enriching, and memorable experiences for every guest, and we’re so happy this tour exceeded your expectations. We hope to welcome you back soon for another perfect day in Romania! Warm regards, Crafted Tours Romania
Toni is a great guide. Very well planned and enjoyed his tour. Knowledge of history. Don’t go with anyone else. He is reliable and very friendly. I also booked a walking tour of the city with Toni. Greatly recommend you will not be disappointed.
Dear Traveler, Thank you so much for your fantastic review! We’re very happy to hear that both the Sacred Monasteries tour and the city walking tour with Toni exceeded your expectations. It’s wonderful that you appreciated his knowledge, planning, and friendly guidance throughout. Your recommendation means a lot — we’re glad you had a memorable experience and look forward to welcoming you back for more discoveries in Bucharest! Warm regards, Crafted Tours Romania
a wonderful informative tour with Toni, who was the best!! a great way to spend the day seeing and experiencing beautiful monasteries and a palace! definitely recommend as a day trip to get out of the city and see villages, monks, nuns, and brides at the palace.
Dear Traveler, I’m truly grateful for your kind words! It was a pleasure spending the day with you and exploring the monasteries together. I’m glad you enjoyed the mix of history, spirituality, and local life—from the peaceful villages to the surprise of seeing brides at the palace. Thank you for recommending this experience—it means a lot! I hope our paths cross again on another journey through Romania. Warm regards, Toni, Tour Guide
Excellent experience. Tony was an amazing guide. I wish there were Tonys in every city I travel to. He was knowledgeable and made sure I got a full Romanian experience.
Dear Traveler, What a wonderful thing to read – thank you! I’m truly glad you enjoyed the Sacred Monasteries Tour and that you felt the full Romanian experience. Sharing our history, traditions, and spiritual heritage is always a joy for me. If there were more cities with “Tonys,” I’d happily travel the world with you! Warm regards, Toni, Tour Guide Crafted Tours Romania
Amazing monasteries , historically and religiously. A nice day out of busy Bucharest. Lovely helpful driver guide .
Dear Traveler, Thank you so much for sharing your kind words! We are thrilled to hear that you enjoyed the monasteries and the castle. It's wonderful to know that the day trip away from the bustle of Bucharest provided a peaceful and enriching experience. We're also glad that our guide made the journey even more enjoyable. We always aim to provide a memorable and insightful experience for our guests. We hope to welcome you on another tour soon! Warm regards, The Crafted Tours Romania Team
