
October 6-18, 2025
October 5-17, 2026
• 13 Days
• Only 4–6 Guests
• Photographer | Guide
• Local Guides and Fixers
• Premium Hotels
• 1 Domestic Flight
• Breakfasts
• 9 Meals
• Airport Transfers
• Entry fees
UNDISCOVERED ROMANIA
Brasov, Bran, Moieciu, Holbav, Maramures, Bucovina and Bucharest
The land of secrets. Romania is so magical, it needs to be explored at least once in a lifetime.
Romania is a land of mystery, history, and breathtaking landscapes, a place where time slows down and traditions remain beautifully intact. Join us on our 13 day small-group UNDISCOVERED ROMANIA Photo Tour through this undiscovered gem, capturing the essence of its people, landscapes, and architecture. From the medieval city of Brașov to the remote villages of Maramureș and Bucovina, this journey offers an immersive experience that blends storytelling, adventure, and artistry.
Our journey begins in Brașov, a charming city nestled in the Carpathian Mountains. With its colorful facades, gothic churches, and bustling squares, Brașov is a perfect introduction to Romania’s rich heritage. We’ll explore the winding streets, photograph the iconic Black Church, and soak in the old-world atmosphere before moving on to Bran, home to the legendary Bran Castle. While the Dracula myth lingers in the air, the true magic lies in the fortress’s medieval architecture and its stunning mountainous backdrop. From here, we continue to Moieciu and Holbav, where rolling green hills, wooden farmhouses, and horse-drawn carts offer a glimpse into Romania’s pastoral past.
As we venture deeper into the countryside, Maramureș reveals itself as one of Europe’s last bastions of tradition. Life here follows the rhythms of nature, and photography opportunities abound. We’ll capture craftsmen at work, women in hand-embroidered clothing, and elderly farmers whose weathered faces tell stories of resilience. The wooden churches of Maramureș, with their towering spires and intricate carvings, provide a stunning contrast to the vast open landscapes. One of the most unique stops will be the Merry Cemetery of Săpânța, where vividly painted tombstones celebrate life with poetry and humor.
In Bucovina, Romania’s painted monasteries stand as masterpieces of religious art, their exterior frescoes depicting biblical scenes in remarkable detail. These UNESCO-listed sites, set against rolling hills and quiet villages, provide an extraordinary setting for capturing both architecture and culture. Here, we’ll meet local artisans who continue to preserve ancient crafts, from pottery to icon painting, offering us a deeper connection to Romania’s heritage. The pace of life is slower, allowing us to immerse ourselves fully in the textures, colors, and human stories of the region.
Our final destination is Bucharest, Romania’s dynamic and ever-evolving capital. A city of striking contrasts, Bucharest fuses Belle Époque elegance with remnants of its communist past. We’ll photograph grand landmarks like the Palace of the Parliament, the bustling life of Piata Obor market, and the charm of the Old Town’s lively streets. As we gather for our farewell dinner, we’ll reflect on the journey, sharing our most powerful images and memories from this incredible photographic adventure.
This small-group tour is more than just a photography trip—it’s an opportunity to step into a world where history, culture, and nature blend seamlessly. You’ll experience Romania through the eyes of its people, capturing moments that tell a story far beyond the frame. Join us and be part of this unforgettable journey.
Group Size
4-6 Guests
Experience | Difficulty
- Beginner, amateur, enthusiast and semi-pro photographers
- All cameras and camera phones are welcome
- Minimal elevation changes and moderate walking
- Non-photographers also welcome
Weather | Sun
October – Temps 66/45 F 19/05 C Sunrise 07:30 l Sunset (06:25) 18:25
Includes
- 13 Days
- Nature, culture, travel, landscape and people photography
- Professional photographer | guide
- Photo walks & discussions
- Local Guides and Fixers
- Small group size (4-6 guests)
- Premium hotels
- 1 Domestic Flight
- All Breakfasts, 6 Dinners, 3 Lunches
- Airport and hotel transfers
- Entry Fees
Travel Information
Arrival / Departure Airport: Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP)
Our adventure begins in the afternoon on the first day and ends in the morning on the last day.
Note: Our trip begins in Brasov, a two hour drive from Bucharest. Upon your arrival, we will arrange a transfer for you from Bucharest to Brasov on day one. Early arrival hotel reservations are based on a hotel in Brasov but can be changed to a hotel in Bucharest should you want to explore Bucharest pre-tour. We will organize for you once you register.
Travel Visa: A visa may be required depending on your nationality. We suggest you use iVisa.com They are excellent at providing quick service for obtaining travel visas.
Accommodations
Maramures – Pensiunea Glodeanca, or similar
Bucovina – Casa cu Cerbi, or similar
Bucharest – InterContinental Athénée Palace Bucharest by IHG, or similar
Romania Prices & Dates
Adventure | Price | REGISTER |
---|---|---|
From: $9,995 | From: $9,995 | |
From: $10,495 | From: $10,495 |

Photographer Leader
Michael Chinnici
October 6-18, 2025

Photographer Leader
Roman Martin
October 6-18, 2025
October 5-17, 2026
*All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Please select single occupancy for a private room. For your convenience, we offer optional early arrival and late departure accommodations so you can extend your stay before or after the trip. We typically stay in upscale boutique hotels in the 4 and 5-star category. Not all destinations offer these types of properties. We look for unique hotels that offer cultural, historic, and/or authentic features. Depending on the size of the group, smaller boutique hotels may have limited room inventory. In some countries or in remote locations, we may be limited to lodges or branded chain hotels. In Cuba, we stay in upscale family-owned Casas (bread & breakfasts). On all of our tours, breakfast is almost always included, but not guaranteed. Meal categories listed include (B) for breakfast, (L) for lunch, and (D) for dinner.
ITINERARY
ROMANIA 13 DAY PHOTO TOUR
Day 1 | Brasov
We meet at our hotel in Brasov in the afternoon and introduce each other. We will have informal discussions on what our guests are trying to achieve in their photography, subject matters, styles, and techniques.
We begin our tour with an orientation walk of the city. Brasov is surrounded by the beautiful Carpathian Mountains, creating a stunning background. The city boasts a captivating blend of modern urban life and timeless traditional beauty. Wander through its charming streets to discover a seamless fusion of medieval architecture, quaint cobblestone roads, and the vibrant energy of contemporary cafes and bustling streets.
We will celebrate the group’s arrival and end the day with a Welcome Dinner. (D)
Day 2 | Brasov - Moieciu
After breakfast, we leave for the famous Bran Castle, known for its association with the Dracula legend. Brașov and Bran are part of the Transylvania region of Romania and we cannot miss visiting these legendary places when here. We will spend our day photographing the impressive architecture and surrounding landscape.
In the afternoon, we will drive to Moieciu village for a scenic hike, capturing the rural life of Romania.
We return to Brasov for dinner. (B)
Day 3 | Brasov - Holbav
Today we will be visiting Holbav, a magical place, almost like a fairyland. We explore the hill-top villages and get to meet the people here. Opportunities for both landscape and people photography await us in Holbav, one of Romania’s best-kept secrets. Nestled in the mountain slopes above Brasov, this is a traditional shepherd village.
Here, we will immerse ourselves in the authentic essence of Romanian life. Engaging with the locals, observing their humble lifestyle, and capturing these moments promise to be a delightful experience for every photographer.
We return to Brasov for dinner, after a long day. (B)
Day 4 | Brasov - Maramures
We start our drive to Maramures after breakfast. En route, we will stop (depending on the weather) in villages for impromptu photoshoots and reach Glod, a Romanian mountain village, and our base in Maramures by evening.
We will check in to our hotel and end the day early and relax for the rest of the evening. (B, D)
Day 5 | Maramures
In the morning, we visit a church dedicated to Saint Parascheva, a remarkable structure dating back to the 1700s. The architecture will leave you amazed as its made of wood and is honored as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can get a glimpse of locals in their traditional attires. Men dressed in thick felt trousers, wide belts, and funnel-shaped huts; and ladies draped in ethnic gathered skirts, thick woolen blouses, and headscarves. The array of colors seems to have come out of the pages of folklore.
We spend the day, visiting traditional Romanian homes with mostly elders from different walks of life. Enjoy traditional comfort meal from the region – Goulash and a sumptuous festive dinner with traditional folk music and dance. (B, L, D)
Day 6 | Maramures
Today, we set out to explore the area, capturing the essence of autumn through our lenses. We aim to photograph the vibrant hues of pumpkins and the picturesque beauty of Maramures. Brace yourself for a landscape that promises both excitement and breathtaking shots. We will continue to visit pumpkin farms as its the season of harvest and photograph the region.
After a day full of excitement and some great photo sessions, we return to our mansion for a comfortable dinner and relax. (B, L, D)
Day 7 | Maramures
We begin our day early, with a sunrise photo shoot, focusing on captivating landscape photography.
As the day unfolds, we immerse ourselves in the heart of village life, capturing the nuances of everyday activities. From people toiling in the fields to various rural scenes, we will capture the authentic charm of Maramures.
In the afternoon, we will visit the Barsana Monastery, a must-visit destination in Maramures. The monastic complex, adorned with wooden constructions, offers a spectacular subject for photography. Amidst this captivating setting, a relaxed atmosphere and ample opportunities for picturesque shots pervades. (B, L, D)
Day 8 | Maramures - Bucovina
We check out of Maramures and head for our next destination Bucovina. We will be passing through some of the breathtaking views and landscapes of the region.
The area boasts a warm and welcoming population, centuries-old crafts, and spectacular natural landscapes. Wood carving, weaving, pottery, basket making, and egg painting are all part of the incredible heritage of the area, and the fabulous food will make you fall in love with the local cuisine.
Bucovina is the land of boletus, cream, and fish – the three main ingredients for relishing dishes. We will check-in at a beautiful family mansion in Bucovina and relax for the rest of the day. (B)
Day 9 | Bucovina
Nestled in the rolling hills of northern Moldova, Bucovina is home to one of the world’s greatest art treasures: the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of the Painted Monasteries of Bucovina. Built-in the 15th and 16th centuries and featuring colorful exterior frescoes depicting dramatic religious scenes, these richly decorated houses of worship are unique.
We will be visiting some of the most picturesque monasteries of the region. We then attend an egg-painting workshop, a Moldovian tradition, followed by lunch.
Our photo tour is not confined to taking photographs; rather we ensure that you experience the country like a local. (B)
Day 10 | Bucovina
One of the best ways to discover the far corners of Romania is by taking the steam train known locally as Mocăniţa. The train used to run on a narrow gauge in the mountain regions of the country. Its utilitarian, raw-materials transport function is gone today but the routes it served still offer beautiful views of less trodden paths.
Going through the unspoiled landscapes of Bucovina, this steam train line was open for use in 1888, when it was used for forestry transport. The current steam train line is 12 km long and passes through some of the most scenic snowcapped transport. We will also be chasing the train as it chips through scenic landscapes, and wait at vantage points to get the best shots.
We will visit few more monasteries and document the unpretentious life of the residents. (B)
Day 11 | Bucovina - Bucharest
On day 11 we’ll check out of our hotel in Bucovina and proceed for our flight to Bucharest. Upon our arrival in Bucharest, we’ll check-in to our hotel. In the afternoon we’ll get a little taste of the city before dinner and retiring for the evening. (B)
Day 12 | Bucharest
Bucharest is an immersive journey through Romania’s vibrant capital, capturing its unique blend of history, architecture, and urban energy. We begin at sunrise in the Old Town, where cobblestone streets, historic churches, and Belle Époque facades create a stunning contrast of old and new.
As the city comes to life, we explore the grandeur of the Palace of the Parliament, one of the world’s largest buildings, before heading to the lively Piata Obor market, where vendors, street food, and colorful produce provide dynamic street photography opportunities. In the afternoon, we venture to the communist-era neighborhoods, documenting the stark architecture and remnants of a bygone era, then move to the elegant boulevards of Victory Avenue, lined with stunning 19th-century buildings. As golden hour approaches, we capture the Arcul de Triumf, bathed in warm light, before ending the day at a charming café, reflecting on our images and the captivating contrasts of Bucharest.
In the evening we head out for a wonderful Farewell Dinner celebrating an amazing two weeks together. (B, D)
Day 13 | Bucharest - Departure
Today we are up early for a morning photo walk before breakfast and our hotel checkout. If time permits, we suggest you extend your stay in the wonderful city of Bucharest. (B)
(B) Breakfast, (L) Lunch, (D) Dinner, (E) Excursion
May all who come as guests... leave as friends®

OPTIONS AND BENEFITS
Pricing
All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Please select single occupancy for a private room. For your convenience, we offer optional early arrival and late departure accommodations so you can extend your stay before or after the trip. We typically stay in boutique hotels in the 4-star category. Not all destinations offer these types of properties. We look for unique hotels which offer cultural, historic and/or authentic features. Depending on the size of the group, smaller boutique hotels may have limited room inventory. In some countries or in remote locations, we may be limited to lodges or branded chain hotels. Breakfast is included only if included in our room rates.
Private Guided Adventures
We offer amazing private guided photo adventures, cultural tours and vacations for individuals, couples, families and groups. We can customize any of our published adventures, as well as others, to meet your individual needs, schedule, budget and interests. This may include the finest 5-star accommodations, business-class travel, and private guides and fixers who are able to make the impossible possible. If you are not interested in a photo-centric vacation, but you love our approach to private travel, we will be happy to design and deliver an amazing adventure focused on travel, culture and cuisine. Click here to request a quote. Feel free to call us at 1-888-834-0288 or contact us for more information.
Travel Insurance
We offer travel insurance through the internationally recognized Travelex Travel Insurance Company, as well as evacuation and medical transportation insurance through MedJet, one of the best in the industry.
The cost for travel insurance can be as low as 4% of the total trip cost, depending upon age and other factors. Knowing you have trip cancellation coverage can make a big difference should you have to cancel for some unforeseen reason. Travelex Insurance Services is a BBB Accredited business with an A+ rating. Click here to learn more about why you should consider travel insurance.
Rewards Program
Start earning points today and SAVE $200 - $900 off future trips!
Simply register for one of our amazing photo adventures and begin earning points today!
How The Program Works
For every adventure reservation you make with Photo Workshop Adventures, you earn valuable points which you can redeem on your next trip. This is a great way to save up to 8% off future trips. Our Rewards Program is designed with three tiers: Orange, Gold and VIP Members. Points may be applied towards balance payments on your next trip, or you may choose to accumulate points for a free trip in the future.
ORANGE REWARDS
All guests begin with our Orange Rewards Program (Level 1), which earns 4 points for every dollar you spend. You begin earning points immediately after your first trip. A $5,900 spend earns 23,600 points with a value of $236 USD.
GOLD REWARDS
With our Gold Rewards Program (Level 2), you earn 6 points for every dollar you spend. Orange Members who reach 120,000 accumulated lifetime* points (approx. 4-6 trips), automatically move up to Gold Rewards. A $5,900 spend earns 35,400 points with a value of $354 USD.
Additional Gold Benefits:
- Earn up to double points during promotional events
- Advance notifications for upcoming adventures and special offers
VIP REWARDS
With our VIP Rewards Program (Level 3), you earn 8 points for every dollar you spend. Gold Members who reach 350,000 accumulated lifetime* points (approx. 8-12 trips) move up to VIP Rewards. A $5,900 spend earns 47,200 points with a value of $472 USD, (8+/-% discount).
Additional VIP Benefits:
- Earn up to double points during promotional events
- Advance notifications for upcoming adventures and special offers
- Ability to Gift or Transfer points to others
- Receive complimentary airport transfers at the destination location*
Redeeming Your Points
Redeeming your points couldn’t be easier. You can always log in to your account to check your points balance. When you are ready to book your next trip, register and pay your deposit. When you go to pay your balance you will be given the option to apply your points and receive a discount.
THINK ORANGE Magazine
Subscribe to our Think Orange Magazine and eNews. THINK ORANGE is a wonderful mix of stories and tips related to travel, photography, adventure, culture, art, technology, cuisine, lifestyle, people and more. Our objective is to immerse you in a world you may only fantasize about. Raise your awareness and inspire your creativity. Perhaps even help make you a better photographer. We deliver similar experiential experiences that our guests enjoy on our photo adventures. Like all of our adventures, our blog is “photo-centric”, while also allowing you to experience all the nuances and cultural aspects of travel and adventure. Welcome to our world. We hope you enjoy. Our eNews is a great way to receive information about upcoming photo adventures, exciting new destinations, photography tips, special offers and more. Subscribe today!
Gift Cards
Give someone you know a Gift Card, good toward any of our Photo Adventures, Photo Tours, Private Guided Tours, Online Courses, Prints or Merchandize. Our beautifully personalized eGift Cards and Certificates are delivered to you electronically. They are fully transferable and have a 2 year expiration date. They are available in any amount from $100 to $5000. It makes a great gift for anyone who loves photography, travel or adventure. Order now, or email for more information.