Castles, Bikes & Hikes In Romania

Hello Bucharest! And hello good times, as we kick off our trip with a walking tour of the old town. Stroll through more than 500 years of history with a passionate local guide. Learn about Vlad the Impaler and see how art nouveau architecture, grand municipal buildings and beautiful Orthodox churches mingle with stark structures from decades of communist rule. You can't miss the Palace of the Parliament which has the dubious boast of being the world's heaviest building!

This evening we'll enjoy an included dinner together at the oldest restaurant in Romania, which, for 130 years, has welcomed famous guests, from The Rolling Stones to the Prince of Japan. Its name ‘Caru' cu bere' translates as ‘the beer wagon' – so let's get on board! (D) Stay: Moxy by Marriott (Or Similar)

After breakfast we'll head for Peles Castle, the former summer residence of the kings of Romania but now one of the most important museums in Transylvania. Once we've feasted our eyes on all the ancient riches we're bound for the Bucegi Mountains. In the mountain resort of Siniai we'll take the cable car from 1400ft to Cota 2000 and enjoy a guided hike, with majestic mountain views and photo opps with the famous Bucegi ‘Sphinx'. The fun stuff just keeps coming.

This afternoon we'll drive to Brasov for another fascinating walking tour including the chance to squeeze down Strada Sforii, the narrowest street in Europe. The evening is your own to check out Brasov's lively cafes, restaurants and varied nightlife. Don't forget to try Sarmale, the Romanian national dish (stuffed cabbage rolls, with a side of polenta) then raise a toast with Tuica, a traditional spirit made from plums. (B) Stay: A conveniently located hotel

We're beside ourselves with excitement to finally get to go inside Bran Castle, aka Dracula's Castle, the fantastical fortress high on a rock that inspired Bram Stoker's dark tale. Outside we'll grab some bikes and pedal off on a local trail with a guide who'll regale us with myths and facts about the castle, vampires and other local folklore.

Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife too – bears, wolves, lynx and (Dracula's favorite) bats - are all native to the area – but don't worry, no werewolves! We'll surely never tire of Transylvania but, when our legs are aching and our heads spinning with stories, we'll drive back to Bucharest to talk over the tall tales over a three course dinner in a traditional old town restaurant. (B/D) Stay: Moxy by Marriott (Or Similar)

We'll meet for a final breakfast before we go our separate ways laden with facts, folklore and friendships to last forever – or at least until our next Contiki adventure. (B)