One day trips and must see attractions close to Bucharest
Beyond Bucharest’s lively streets, a world of discovery awaits. Step into centuries-old monasteries wrapped in legend, where whispers of Dracula still linger. Wander through Wallachian palaces, each room a portal to Romania’s royal past. Or slow the pace in thermal spa retreats, where mineral-rich waters promise deep relaxation. Every journey reveals a new layer of Romania’s rich heritage, all within easy reach of Corinthia Bucharest. Here are a few exceptional day trips to add to your itinerary.
1. Dive into the Dracula legend during a Snagov Monastery visit
Situated on a tiny island on Lake Snagov, this monastery is most famous as the final resting site of Count Vlad the Impaler (better known outside Romania as the inspiration for Bram Stoker's Count Dracula).
The island itself is accessible by a quaint wooden footbridge and is worlds away from the brooding Dracula story. In fact, it's a tranquil and inspiring religious site, surrounded by the gently lapping lake waters and almost pristine forests - not to mention exclusive lakefront properties owned by Bucharest's elite.
Enjoy the modest but beautiful 15th-century monastery, with or without a crucifix and stake. Don't expect vampires to appear, but it might be good to come prepared - just in case.
2. Share royal splendour at Peles Castle
If you have a taste for history and gorgeous architecture, Peles Castle is one of the best destinations near Bucharest. In this case, getting there involves a 100km journey, but it is certainly worthwhile.
Once the summer residence of Romania's royal family, Peles is a stunning neo-classical creation. The exterior is characterised by ornate wood carvings and fairy tale towers, while inside the palace really comes alive.
Expect delicate Murano glass antiques, dazzling silk carpets and carved walnut furnishings that - sadly - today's artisans rarely match. It's a timeless setting for day-long visits - a place to lose yourself in luxury.
3. Experience total relaxation with luxury spa breaks
Of course, Bucharest offers other ways to escape into luxury. To achieve complete rejuvenation during Bucharest escapes, it's time for a wellness trip away from the city.
Singureni Manor Romania is a forest health retreat that blends horse riding, swimming pools and Michelin-starred cuisine. If you want to zone out and escape everything, it's a fine place to spend a day.
Singureni isn’t the only wellness retreat for luxury travellers. Balvanyos Resort couples the thermal springs of its Grand Santerra Spa with breathtaking Carpathian landscapes. Let an afternoon disappear in indoor or outdoor pools, where hydromassage experts will ease your body and mind.
Castel Daniel is equally appealing for spa excursions. Combine blissful hikes in the Vargyas Gorge with rejuvenating treatments at the Cellarium Spa - a cellar pool and wellness centre that takes visitors into another world of relaxation.
4. Indulge in exclusive wine tasting at Bellu Mansion
Where better to head next than a well-earned glass of the finest wine? Fortunately, Bucharest lies just south of a world-class (but seriously underrated) wine region.
The Dealu Mare wine tasting region is filled with manor house wineries, mixing luxury surroundings and heavenly flavours. Expect velvety white wines due to the medium-acid soils. Or sample beautifully balanced full-bodied reds, defined by chocolate and coffee notes. Ask our concierge team to book private visits at the finest wineries to avoid missing standout vintages.
1000 de Chipuri is an obvious standout from our perspective. This elite winery hosts lavish tastings blending breathtaking wines and delectable lunches. When you visit, you can descend to the nearby Slanic Salt Mine - a fascinating (and vast) testament to Romania’s industrial heritage.
We also highly recommend stopping at the Bellu Mansion. This 19th century manor is like a time capsule, featuring period decorations and even a century-old Ericsson telephone. It's a vivid window into Romania's rich cultural history.
5. Lose yourself in royal history at the Royal Court of Târgoviște
Some one-day trips near Bucharest offer a portal into another world - one of regal luxury and compelling tales of power, intrigue and mystery.
For instance, the Royal Court of Târgoviște astonishes visitors with its epic scale. Home to Wallachia's rulers for 300 years, the Court contains iconic attractions like the Chindia Tower, the Great Royal Church and the court where Vlad the Impaler ruled in the 1400s.
6. Soak up natural beauty at the Comana Natural Park and Monastery
Finally, Romania is home to some of Europe’s most breathtaking landscapes, and we have a few day trips that capture the countryside at its most spectacular.
Firstly, a Comana Natural Park getaway transports you to a serene haven of lush forests, tranquil lakes and diverse wildlife. Here, luxury lies in the untouched beauty of the landscape while the historic Comana Monastery adds a spiritual touch to the experience.
Our second natural escape is a little less wild. The 17th-century Mogoșoaia Palace gardens offer a wonderfully romantic canvas to share special moments and take photos. The Baroque palace is stunning, but the vast Venetian-style gardens steal the show.
Wander through flower arches, trace winding pathways and climb the gateway tower for panoramic vistas. Check the schedule, too. The Palace often hosts classical music events - the perfect backdrop for sublime symphonies. Book with our concierge team if your visit coincides.
