Campulung is a fantastic base for exploring some of Romania’s most striking landscapes and wildlife. Its location offers easy access to the Făgăraș Mountains, the Transfagarasan Highway, and even the Danube Delta, making it ideal for travelers who want authentic experiences beyond the usual tourist spots. Whether you’re into wildlife, scenic drives, or UNESCO sites, Campulung offers a variety of tours that cater to all interests. One of our favorites is the Bear Watching Tour from Bucharest, which combines the thrill of spotting wild brown bears with visits to historic sites like the Curtea de Argeș Monastery.
If you’re after a high-adrenaline, private driving adventure, the Top Gear Road Transfagarasan tour offers a breathtaking ride along one of the world’s most famous mountain roads. For those craving a peaceful nature escape, the Day Trip to the Danube Delta provides a chance to see hundreds of bird species in a UNESCO-listed wetland. And if you want a full-day experience that combines multiple highlights, the Bucharest: Bear Watching and Top Gear Road Day Trip is a comprehensive option. Each of these tours delivers a different taste of Romania’s wild beauty and cultural riches.
1. From Bucharest: Făgăraș Mountains and Bear Watching Tour
At number 1 on our list, this full-day tour from Bucharest takes you into the Făgăraș Mountains, an area renowned for its rugged peaks and lush scenery. Starting from Montrek Sport, the journey includes visiting the Curtea de Argeș Monastery, a beautiful example of Romanian architecture, and the Vidraru Dam, an engineering marvel on Lake Vidraru. The highlight of the day is searching for brown bears in their natural habitat, an experience that’s both exciting and rare for most travelers.
The tour also features a drive along the iconic Transfagarasan Highway, offering stunning views of the mountains and valleys. Visiting Poenari Fortress, famously linked to Vlad the Impaler, adds a historical twist to the day. Guests appreciate the combination of wildlife viewing and cultural sites, with many describing the experience as “an unforgettable adventure.” While the 11-hour trip is packed, it’s perfect for those who want a balanced mix of nature, history, and engineering feats. The value is excellent considering the inclusion of bear spotting and visits to several key sites.
Bottom Line: This tour is ideal for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike, offering an immersive taste of the Făgăraș region in one long but rewarding day.
2. 1 Day Private Tour of Famous Top Gear Road Transfagarasan
At number 2, this private tour is all about enjoying the Transfagarasan Highway at your own pace. Starting from Bucharest, the tour includes visits to the Vidraru Dam, Capra Waterfall, and Bâlea Lake, with plenty of time for photos and exploring. The intimate setting means your guide can tailor the experience, giving you personalized insights into the scenery and local legends.
What makes this tour stand out is the focus on driving along one of the most spectacular mountain roads in the world. The route twists through mountain passes and offers panoramic views that are perfect for photography. The free time at Bâlea Lake allows for a leisurely walk or just soaking in the scenery. This trip is especially suited for those who want a private, flexible experience rather than a large group tour. Reviews note the professionalism of guides and the chance to enjoy the mountain landscape without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: If you’re a confident driver or a passenger who loves scenic roads, this private experience offers the best way to enjoy the Transfagarasan without the crowd, with the added comfort of personalization.
3. SUPER TOUR: Day Trip to Danube Delta
At number 3, this day trip from Bucharest offers an immersive visit to the Danube Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized for its biodiversity. The tour includes pickups from central Bucharest and a scenic 3.75-hour drive to Tulcea County, where the adventure begins. Once there, a boat takes you into the delta’s labyrinth of lakes and reed beds, home to hundreds of bird species like pelicans, herons, and cormorants.
The highlight is the opportunity to see wildlife in its natural environment, making it a favorite for bird watchers and nature lovers. The tour also includes a coffee break at Tulcea County and visits to local markets or cultural sites, depending on the day. Travelers often describe the experience as “a true escape into nature” and perfect for those interested in ecology or photography.
While the trip is long, the delta’s tranquility and wildlife encounters are well worth it. The value comes from the chance to see a UNESCO protected wetland that’s unlike anything else in Romania. Be prepared for a full day of outdoor activity—comfortable footwear and a camera are essentials.
Bottom Line: Best suited for bird enthusiasts and nature explorers who want an authentic experience in one of Europe’s most important wetlands.
4. Bucharest: Bear Watching Tour and Top Gear Road Day Trip
Finally, at number 4, this full-day trip combines the best of wildlife and spectacular drives. Starting from Victoriei Square, the tour takes you through the Carpathian Mountains, with stops at the Vidraru Dam and the Poenari Citadel. The highlight is the chance to see wild brown bears, making this a memorable experience for wildlife fans.
What sets this trip apart is the combination of scenic sightseeing and wildlife viewing, plus the opportunity to drive along Transfagarasan—a road that’s often called the “best drive in the world.” The itinerary also includes a stop at Bâlea Lake, with free time for photos, walking, and sampling street food. The tour is well-rated and offers a comprehensive experience in about 10 hours, making it ideal for travelers with a packed schedule who want variety.
Guests love the mix of adventure and culture, with many saying it “feels like two trips in one.” The price is on the higher side, but for those seeking a full-day adventure with wildlife, mountain scenery, and a legendary road, it’s a solid choice.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a balanced day of wildlife, scenic drives, and historical sites, all wrapped into one memorable trip.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Campulung
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity level. If wildlife is your main goal, the Făgăraș Mountains and Bear Watching Tour provides a well-rounded experience of nature and history. For a personalized, flexible experience, the Top Gear Road Transfagarasan private tour offers unrivaled scenic driving. If birdwatching and wetlands excite you, the Danube Delta trip is hard to beat, especially if you have a full day available. For those who want a little of everything—mountains, wildlife, and breathtaking roads—the Bucharest: Bear Watching and Top Gear Road Day Trip combines all three.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season (spring and summer), when these popular trips fill up quickly. Think about your travel style—do you prefer guided group tours, private experiences, or self-guided adventures? Each of these options offers a different way to see Romania’s wild and scenic heartland.
In summary, whether you’re after the thrill of spotting bears in the wild, cruising along the legendary Transfagarasan, or exploring the bird-rich waters of the Danube Delta, Campulung is a fantastic hub for exploring Romania’s natural wonders. For a mix of adventure, scenery, and culture, the options above provide a range of unforgettable experiences—just remember to book early and pack your camera.