EXCELLENTVerified Wonderful Romania a d guide -Oct 2025 Gelu was our local guide for the 10day trip in Romania. We were so lucky to have a local folk who relates very well their country cultures and values, and also an experienced journalist to tell us more about their history, He even shared his personal experience on the street protest during government changing time, that really brought the country history to life to us!!Apart from the beautiful scenery in Brasov he brought us to, and the very special Sibui houses with 'eyes' on the roofs, he told superb stories about the history and meaningful wall paintings in those churches we visited, and the highlight was at the merry cemetery at maramures,. He took the effort to explain or translate those script on the stones to allow us to appreciate the special culture there.We were like a true family during the trip!! We thoroughly enjoyed his tour.íPosted on TripadvisorVerified The best way to experience the real Transylvania Having Gelu as our guide in Romania was like travelling with a very knowledgeable good mate. That is a real bonus for the personalised tours he operates. We took this tour whose main focus is in the province of Transylvania. This region is so beautiful with much of the area in an enormous and gentle landscape but bounded by the massive Carpathian Mountain range that transcends the whole country. Its cites including Sibiu, Sighisoara and Brasov are as beautiful, historic, vibrant and welcoming, and well and truly comparable to their Western European cousins (but often without the hoards of tourists). The region's architectural highlights include remarkable sites like Peles Castle, the fortified churches of Carta and Viscri, the renowned Bran Castle, and many outstanding orthodox churches, each part of a unique European heritage. Gelu’s extensive knowledge of Romanian history, including his insights living during the Soviet era, provided a very personal perspective. Also a keen hiker, he guided us on lovely walks to the top of the mountain overlooking Brasov and walks around the stunning Balea Lake. We were treated to safe encounters with wildlife including Romania's famous bears sometimes seen even at the side of local roads. His driver George ensured comfortable transport in his spacious SUV, allowing Gelu to spend additional time commenting about life in Romania and its recent rapid modernization. Another delightful part of our journey was that several times Gelu pleasantly surprised by detouring from the planned itinerary to visit small towns or very recent renovations such as to walled town fortifications that had just opened to the public. Culinary experiences were another part of the tour, with Gelu providing expert recommendations for traditional and modern cuisine at local restaurants and cafes and we even dined with local families. Finally, with Gelu's keen enthusiasm for his job, you might find long travel days so make sure you are well rested before you start your travels! ;o)Posted on TripadvisorVerified Extremely knowledgeable guides A VIP experience One of the best experiences ever.The Trandafir brothers left nothing to chance: from airport pick up to hotel reservations, entertainment, entrance fees.Posted on TripadvisorVerified Passionate, Knowledgeable and Truly Dedicated Guide We were so lucky to have Gelu as our guide in Romania! He is incredibly passionate about his country’s culture and history, and his stories brought every place to life. In Brasov and Sibiu, he seemed to know every nook and corner — from hidden alleys to the best photo spots.At the Merry Cemetery, Gelu patiently interpreted the witty tombstone inscriptions for us, helping us understand the deeper meaning behind this unique tradition. He was always patient, dedicated, and helpful — even assisting us with our luggage without hesitation.Thank you, Gelu, for making our Romania trip so memorable. Highly recommended to anyone who wants to experience Romania with a guide who truly loves and knows his country! 🇷🇴✨Posted on TripadvisorVerified Traveling with Gelu If you plan to visit Romania, your first step is to contact Gelu. Gelu is an ideal guide: knowledgeable, personable, articulate, and flexible. His enthusiasm in relating the remarkable history and culture of Romania, his love of nature, his ability to connect with a wide variety of people are all evident and contagious. As a bonus, Gelu's journalistic background adds significantly to what he has to offer. In sum, your journey in Romania will be greatly enhanced by Gelu's companionship.Posted on TripadvisorVerified Outstanding 12-Day Tour with Jello – Highly Recommended! Dear Jello,Thank you for planning and guiding such a wonderful 12-day trip through Transylvania, Maramureș, and Bukovina. Your professionalism, vast knowledge, and engaging style—always with patience, humor, and warmth—made the journey unforgettable.We especially enjoyed visiting unique villages, painted monasteries, palaces, and Jewish heritage sites, all while experiencing Romania’s breathtaking landscapes. Every detail, from local guides to hotel arrangements, was perfectly organized and tailored to our wishes.We will always remember you (and George the driver!) with great appreciation and warmly recommend you to anyone looking for an exceptional travel experience in Romania.Posted on TripadvisorVerified Memorable experience Great tour We visited Brasov, Sighisoara and Maramures. Each place is so unique and has its own character.Glad that we have Gelu, who escorted us throughout the tour. He is so passionate about the history and the country. I learn a lot on Romania. A very memorable experience.Posted on TripadvisorVerified Great tour. True experience It was wonderful in joining this Transylvania tour. The sites we visited are magnificent including Sighisoara, Wooden church, Merry Cemetery, Steam train of Maramures. All have their distinct cultural characteristics. Staying at Maramures village is a very local experience and can get a good understanding of the people’s life there.More important, with Gelu as our guide, his passion and knowledge about the places enhance our understanding on Romania as a whole. It is very lucky to have the chance to meet him.Posted on TripadvisorVerified God bless these lovely people of Maramures This part of the world is almost completely blank to us from Hong Kong as much as Maramures to Hong Kong. It is really a good blessing to have Gelu as escorting the whole trip with us. Gelu just well planned the routes but instead of pushing, he led us to explore the local essences of these places and legendary local figures by our own approaches. He just provided the platform and we decided our own paces and determined how to mingle with many different people. It has displayed explicitly that Gelu is devoted much to the Country that raised him and he is very eager to share with us how deep he cares about these places & people.Posted on TripadvisorVerified Not just any European trip A great trip to Sighisoara & Maramures with Gelu our guide who’s so passionate about Transylvanian culture & traditions. It ended up not just a trip to any European country but a truly special experience. Pleasantly surprised by how well traditions are preserved in Maramures. The cooking class, visits to the village photographer, the craftsmen, the cemetery & wooden churches, and even the horse cart ride were all close encounters with the locals & their culture. Great itinerary well thought of. We feel lucky to come across this travel agency. George who planned our trip was very responsive, came up with ideas that made our trip more enjoyable & gave us advices. They are perfect for private small groups that look for a special cultural experience in Romania.
7-DAY | MARAMURES & the Saxon HEARTLAND OF TRANSYLVANIA
3-DAY | Transylvanian CITADELS:
Sibiu-Sighisoara-Brasov
6-DAY | ONE WEEK full of Transyvania:
Castles, fortresses, fortified churches, UNESCO sites
CONTACT US
FOR THE BEST
TRANSYLVANIAN
EXPERIENCE
YOU CAN GET
+40-723.303.310 Passionately loving Transylvania!
My faith, friends and relatives, passion for hiking and the outdoors, and love of cultural heritage all bind me to Transylvania.
As a tour guide and European Christian Scout leader, I can offer you the best experiences in this region of Romania and Europe, which is rich in history and cultural heritage and boasts an exceptional, unspoilt natural environment. As an experienced journalist, I can also provide unique insights into the region's recent history.Taking inspiration from my family name — Trandafir means rose— I prioritise privacy, finesse and discretion. Gelu Trandafir.
My faith, friends and relatives, passion for hiking and the outdoors, and love of cultural heritage all bind me to Transylvania.
EXCELLENTVerified Wonderful Romania a d guide -Oct 2025 Gelu was our local guide for the 10day trip in Romania. We were so lucky to have a local folk who relates very well their country cultures and values, and also an experienced journalist to tell us more about their history, He even shared his personal experience on the street protest during government changing time, that really brought the country history to life to us!!Apart from the beautiful scenery in Brasov he brought us to, and the very special Sibui houses with 'eyes' on the roofs, he told superb stories about the history and meaningful wall paintings in those churches we visited, and the highlight was at the merry cemetery at maramures,. He took the effort to explain or translate those script on the stones to allow us to appreciate the special culture there.We were like a true family during the trip!! We thoroughly enjoyed his tour.íPosted on TripadvisorVerified The best way to experience the real Transylvania Having Gelu as our guide in Romania was like travelling with a very knowledgeable good mate. That is a real bonus for the personalised tours he operates. We took this tour whose main focus is in the province of Transylvania. This region is so beautiful with much of the area in an enormous and gentle landscape but bounded by the massive Carpathian Mountain range that transcends the whole country. Its cites including Sibiu, Sighisoara and Brasov are as beautiful, historic, vibrant and welcoming, and well and truly comparable to their Western European cousins (but often without the hoards of tourists). The region's architectural highlights include remarkable sites like Peles Castle, the fortified churches of Carta and Viscri, the renowned Bran Castle, and many outstanding orthodox churches, each part of a unique European heritage. Gelu’s extensive knowledge of Romanian history, including his insights living during the Soviet era, provided a very personal perspective. Also a keen hiker, he guided us on lovely walks to the top of the mountain overlooking Brasov and walks around the stunning Balea Lake. We were treated to safe encounters with wildlife including Romania's famous bears sometimes seen even at the side of local roads. His driver George ensured comfortable transport in his spacious SUV, allowing Gelu to spend additional time commenting about life in Romania and its recent rapid modernization. Another delightful part of our journey was that several times Gelu pleasantly surprised by detouring from the planned itinerary to visit small towns or very recent renovations such as to walled town fortifications that had just opened to the public. Culinary experiences were another part of the tour, with Gelu providing expert recommendations for traditional and modern cuisine at local restaurants and cafes and we even dined with local families. Finally, with Gelu's keen enthusiasm for his job, you might find long travel days so make sure you are well rested before you start your travels! ;o)Posted on TripadvisorVerified Extremely knowledgeable guides A VIP experience One of the best experiences ever.The Trandafir brothers left nothing to chance: from airport pick up to hotel reservations, entertainment, entrance fees.Posted on TripadvisorVerified Passionate, Knowledgeable and Truly Dedicated Guide We were so lucky to have Gelu as our guide in Romania! He is incredibly passionate about his country’s culture and history, and his stories brought every place to life. In Brasov and Sibiu, he seemed to know every nook and corner — from hidden alleys to the best photo spots.At the Merry Cemetery, Gelu patiently interpreted the witty tombstone inscriptions for us, helping us understand the deeper meaning behind this unique tradition. He was always patient, dedicated, and helpful — even assisting us with our luggage without hesitation.Thank you, Gelu, for making our Romania trip so memorable. Highly recommended to anyone who wants to experience Romania with a guide who truly loves and knows his country! 🇷🇴✨Posted on TripadvisorVerified Traveling with Gelu If you plan to visit Romania, your first step is to contact Gelu. Gelu is an ideal guide: knowledgeable, personable, articulate, and flexible. His enthusiasm in relating the remarkable history and culture of Romania, his love of nature, his ability to connect with a wide variety of people are all evident and contagious. As a bonus, Gelu's journalistic background adds significantly to what he has to offer. In sum, your journey in Romania will be greatly enhanced by Gelu's companionship.Posted on TripadvisorVerified Outstanding 12-Day Tour with Jello – Highly Recommended! Dear Jello,Thank you for planning and guiding such a wonderful 12-day trip through Transylvania, Maramureș, and Bukovina. Your professionalism, vast knowledge, and engaging style—always with patience, humor, and warmth—made the journey unforgettable.We especially enjoyed visiting unique villages, painted monasteries, palaces, and Jewish heritage sites, all while experiencing Romania’s breathtaking landscapes. Every detail, from local guides to hotel arrangements, was perfectly organized and tailored to our wishes.We will always remember you (and George the driver!) with great appreciation and warmly recommend you to anyone looking for an exceptional travel experience in Romania.Posted on TripadvisorVerified Memorable experience Great tour We visited Brasov, Sighisoara and Maramures. Each place is so unique and has its own character.Glad that we have Gelu, who escorted us throughout the tour. He is so passionate about the history and the country. I learn a lot on Romania. A very memorable experience.Posted on TripadvisorVerified Great tour. True experience It was wonderful in joining this Transylvania tour. The sites we visited are magnificent including Sighisoara, Wooden church, Merry Cemetery, Steam train of Maramures. All have their distinct cultural characteristics. Staying at Maramures village is a very local experience and can get a good understanding of the people’s life there.More important, with Gelu as our guide, his passion and knowledge about the places enhance our understanding on Romania as a whole. It is very lucky to have the chance to meet him.Posted on TripadvisorVerified God bless these lovely people of Maramures This part of the world is almost completely blank to us from Hong Kong as much as Maramures to Hong Kong. It is really a good blessing to have Gelu as escorting the whole trip with us. Gelu just well planned the routes but instead of pushing, he led us to explore the local essences of these places and legendary local figures by our own approaches. He just provided the platform and we decided our own paces and determined how to mingle with many different people. It has displayed explicitly that Gelu is devoted much to the Country that raised him and he is very eager to share with us how deep he cares about these places & people.Posted on TripadvisorVerified Not just any European trip A great trip to Sighisoara & Maramures with Gelu our guide who’s so passionate about Transylvanian culture & traditions. It ended up not just a trip to any European country but a truly special experience. Pleasantly surprised by how well traditions are preserved in Maramures. The cooking class, visits to the village photographer, the craftsmen, the cemetery & wooden churches, and even the horse cart ride were all close encounters with the locals & their culture. Great itinerary well thought of. We feel lucky to come across this travel agency. George who planned our trip was very responsive, came up with ideas that made our trip more enjoyable & gave us advices. They are perfect for private small groups that look for a special cultural experience in Romania.
Gelu, we couldn’t imagine such an amazing adventure and a great resonation with you, we’re so lucky to meet and know you!
Ciprian Cojan
Italy
No words to describe how beautiful Romania is. Everything was wonderful! Our guide Gelu provided us an amazing experience. An high qualified and cultivated guide, with great capacity to adapt, that took care of all the details. 07/2023
Cristina Teixteira
Portugal
Transylvania was a fantastic experience. Gelu did everything he could to ensure that our experience was memorable. He went above and above. (...) A very down-to-earth person. Keep your excellent work. Thanks. Ruben Schembri, 01/2023
Ruben Schembri
Malta
Three days into the trip I hurt my ankle and was limited as to what I could do. Once I was ready to move forward he completely revised the trip plans to accommodate me. Gelu and his amazing driver assisted me, literally, every step of the way. They turned what could have been a disaster into a fabulous trip. Gelu is not only smart, knowledgeable and a talented tour guide but a warm and wonderful human being. We enjoyed his company. He was so in tune with our needs and interests. Not only did we see Romania and its unique treasures, but because of Gelu’s special touch we got to see and feel the Romanian people. We are very experienced traveler’s and have visited many, many countries. We rank this as the best tour we have ever taken. Bonnie Goldman, 10/2022
Bonnie Goldman
Arizona, US
A l’écoute de nos idées, Gelu nous a concocté un splendide périple passant autant par des paysages alpins superbes, que des villes pleines d’histoire, et des lieux authentiques . Sa connaissance des lieux et de nos hôtes, tellement accueillants, ses commentaires historiques et culturelles pimentés d’humour, ont fait que nous avons passé des vacances exceptionnelles. Encore une fois merci à Gelu et à Vlad, le chauffeur, pour ce voyage magnifique devenu un tour entre amis plutôt qu’avec un guide touristique. Cristina, 07/2022
Cristina
Ukkel, Belgium
During the trip, it felt like we were touring with a friend vs a Tour Guide that we just met. Gelu is so warm, kind and considerate! He is very knowledgeable, enthusiastic and passionate about his home country. Gelu showed us not only the sites but ensured we had experiences and interactions with locals. He thought of everything and made the trip fabulous! Caroline, 03/2022
Caroline
Chicago, US
Hello Gelu! I wanted to personally thank you for guiding us on the tour with Andrew. Doug and I were so impressed with your guiding style and attention to detail. The personal stories were our favorite and we appreciate your honesty in sharing your life story with us. Thanks for ALL you did to make our trip special. Julie, 09/2021
Julie
Upstate New York, US
Gelu is a fantastic guide, very knowledgeable and passionate about his homeland. Spent 2 weeks with a tour group that he led that traveled all over Romania. He always allowed time for questions, pictures and breathing in the experience. The last day of the trip I tested positive for Covid and had to quarantine in my Bucharest hotel room for an additional 14 days. Although I was no longer under his supervision, Gelu checked in with me every day, dropping off food, supplies. He even made sure I got to the airport to return home. I don’t know how I would have managed those 2 weeks without him. Gelu is a very smart, skilled, compassionate guide. Jennifer, 10/2021
Jennifer
New York, US
My partner and I spent two nights/ three days with Gelu, trekking on a personalised route along the #ViaTransilvanica from Sighisoara to Biertan. It was one of the best experiences of our lives, spending time in nature, visiting beautiful churches and monuments, camping in a shepherd & local priest’s gardens and hearing about the local history (in Gelu’s perfect English) along the way. Gelu has an unlimited wealth of knowledge of the local history, traditions and wildlife and being with him was honestly priceless. We felt very safe (despite my fears of bears and dogs!!) and completely in sync with Gelu. He has so much experience with many different types of people of all different ages and he was such fantastic company; with the exact right balance between allowing us time to relax whilst ensuring we also kept to our schedule (42km in 2 days). Charlotte, 08/2021
Charlotte
Padua, Italy
We had a wonderful tour of Romania with Gelu. He has remarkable knowledge and a love for his country which shines through! We certainly came to share that love of Romania! What a beautiful country with picturesque landscapes, wonderful architecture and amazing food. My favorite part of the trip was our stay in Breb Village. We felt so welcomed and at home. If you are considering a trip to Romania... I highly recommend you do so and you will be in wonderful hands with Gelu to guide you! Cherity, 12/2020
Cherity
US
We had an private 3-day tour in Transylvania and were pleased with everything: the advice during the planning stage, the impeccable organization and timing, the cozy hotels, the comfortable car and the reliable driver and our greatest Romanian discovery - our guide Gelu. We saw a beautiful countryside, learned about its past and modern history, discussed current affairs and had a relaxing and enjoyable experience. Gelu and his team turned it into our most memorable trip ever. Skirma, 05/2020
Skirma
Lithuania
Last year, we have brought our extended family to Romania and included a 6 day Transylvanian tour, having Gelu as our guide. We had a fabulous time, he was very knowledgeable, entertaining and helped us built wonderful memories. Well done Gelu, we will definitely come back! Anca, 05/2020
Anca
Canada
Gelu's perspective on all things Romanian - politics, nature, history and his informative story-telling, was a treat all throughout our week. Plus, his excellent eye for a good camera shot (and photography skills for our pictures) were bar none. Highly recommend this trip to anyone. It was such a memorable adventure. Karin, 05/12/2020
Karin
U.S.
Gelu is a complete professional. Punctual, funny and has amazing knowledge about his country and its history. We left Romania after our time with Gelu having a deep sense of satisfaction. Highly recommended. Janice & Jim, 5/5/2020
Janice
U.S.
His knowledge of Romanian history was second to none due to his experience and interest in history and journalism of Romania and overseas. I wouldn’t know as much or have had such an enjoyable time in both Bucharest and Braşov if it was not for meeting him. Thank you Gelu, I’ll not forget you or the experience you provided soon.
Shane
Ireland
Dear Gelu, We have had such a perfect tour of Transylvania with you! Your knowledge of history, religion and culture have brought your country alive. We now can see the beauty of Romania through new eyes. We will always remember our 3 days exploring with you! Thank you! Peggy and Jerry 11/10/2018
Peggy and Jerry
U.S.
TRANSYLVANIAN CITADELS - 3-day Guided Tour
From EUR520
Essence of Saxon Transylvania
Discover the famous medieval burgs of Sibiu, Sighisoara and Brasov, visit Bran and Peleș castles, Biertan fortified church, and catch a glimpse of the ordinary life of Saxon villages.
Transfagarasan, Road to Saxon Transylvania, 4-day
From EUR690June - October 2025
A mountain road opens the heart of Transylvania
We discover Transylvania and enjoy Transfagarasan mountain road, “the best road in the world” as Top Gear’s Jeremy Clarkson put it.
TRANSYLVANIA, MARAMURES & BUCOVINA - 14-day
From EUR2500
Nearly all of Romania in a single tour
A tour especially tailored for those seeking a deeper experience of Romania. Visiting Transylvania with its Saxon heritage of fortified churches, Maramures with its charming wooden churches and living and authentic Romanian rural civilization, Bucovina with its painted churches and the land of natural beauty. Discover also the Jewish communities' heritage in Romania, the most vibrant cities in Romania - Cluj-Napoca and Oradea, the capital of Art Nouveau, the Bran and Peleș castles, the fortresses of Alba Iulia and Sighisoarei, the cities of Sibiu, Brasov, and Bucharest, and the scenic beauty of the Carpathians - including, if the weather allows, their crossing by Transfăgărășan mountain road.
ONE WEEK FULL OF TRANSYLVANIA – 6-day
From EUR1120
Can’t get enough of medieval heritage and history?
Visit the Hunyadi, Bran and Peles castles, Sibiu, Sighisoara, Brasov and Alba Iulia, the fortified churches of Biertan, Viscri and Prejmer. Discover the stature of John Hunyadi and the legends behind Vlad the Impaler.
MARAMURES & SAXON HEARTLAND 7-day
From EUR1300
Romanian peasant culture and the Saxon heritage
You are about to discover amazing sceneries, the Saxon civilization and the fortified churches in south of Transylvania, and, in the far north – the Romanian peasant culture and wooden churches of Maramures.
Magical places to stay in Transylvania
BREB VILLAGE (Maramures)
Nestled in a valley and bypassed by any national or county road, amongst the villages of Maramures, Breb has succeeded most in preserving the old traditional wooden houses. A long time ago, when I first travelled to the region, I didn't make it to Breb. I was with my brother. He had a posh, powerful but low-riding car. The roads were really bad. One year later, he called me saying: Let me tell you something, I made it to Breb. It's just fantastic! Much has changed since then. Most of the small local roads have been repaired and it is a pleasure to drive along. But Breb has not changed.
RIMETEA - a stunning white-green wonder in Transylvania
The harmony of the whitewashed houses with green blinds and joinery, very low entrance doors, and Hungarian-style decorated wooden gates is impressive.
CASA RAȚIU (Turda)
Currently organized to host the tourists charmed by Transylvania, as well as corporate and private events, this elegant and comfortable guesthouse has been the home of past century's joys and dramas. Over the last century, Casa Rațiu has become a symbol of resilience and service of a family which played a crucial role in defending the rights of the Romanian nation in Transylvania.
Romania's remarkable stories
PRINCE vs COMRADE
In 1989, Prince Charles stepped in at a crucial moment to save Romanian monuments and villages, along with the Saxon heritage in Transylvania. Back in 1989, Prince Charles spoke up against the Romanian communist dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu, who was planning to demolish 8,000 Romanian villages and to move the peasants into apartment blocks. The future monarch of Great Britain stifled in ridicule the "new agrarian revolution" of Nicolae Ceausescu.
Blogging on travel: Of Routes&Roses
A family travel business driven by our love for Romania, its friendly people, history and culture, for the scenic views of this Latin island of Eastern Europe. 7-day guided tour
Find our destinations Passionately loving Transylvania. We are bound to Transylvania by our faith, friends and relatives, by our passion for hiking and outdoors and our cherish for the cultural heritage.
We offer the best experiences of this region so rich in history and cultural heritage, with an exceptional, unspoiled natural environment. Our family name - Trandafir - means rose, therefore we emphasize privacy, finesse and discretion. Meet our team Of Routes&Roses - Blogging on travel (CLICK and read)
Enjoy the best experiences of Transylvanian beauty.
EXCELLENTVerified Wonderful Romania a d guide -Oct 2025 Gelu was our local guide for the 10day trip in Romania. We were so lucky to have a local folk who relates very well their country cultures and values, and also an experienced journalist to tell us more about their history, He even shared his personal experience on the street protest during government changing time, that really brought the country history to life to us!!Apart from the beautiful scenery in Brasov he brought us to, and the very special Sibui houses with 'eyes' on the roofs, he told superb stories about the history and meaningful wall paintings in those churches we visited, and the highlight was at the merry cemetery at maramures,. He took the effort to explain or translate those script on the stones to allow us to appreciate the special culture there.We were like a true family during the trip!! We thoroughly enjoyed his tour.íPosted on TripadvisorVerified The best way to experience the real Transylvania Having Gelu as our guide in Romania was like travelling with a very knowledgeable good mate. That is a real bonus for the personalised tours he operates. We took this tour whose main focus is in the province of Transylvania. This region is so beautiful with much of the area in an enormous and gentle landscape but bounded by the massive Carpathian Mountain range that transcends the whole country. Its cites including Sibiu, Sighisoara and Brasov are as beautiful, historic, vibrant and welcoming, and well and truly comparable to their Western European cousins (but often without the hoards of tourists). The region's architectural highlights include remarkable sites like Peles Castle, the fortified churches of Carta and Viscri, the renowned Bran Castle, and many outstanding orthodox churches, each part of a unique European heritage. Gelu’s extensive knowledge of Romanian history, including his insights living during the Soviet era, provided a very personal perspective. Also a keen hiker, he guided us on lovely walks to the top of the mountain overlooking Brasov and walks around the stunning Balea Lake. We were treated to safe encounters with wildlife including Romania's famous bears sometimes seen even at the side of local roads. His driver George ensured comfortable transport in his spacious SUV, allowing Gelu to spend additional time commenting about life in Romania and its recent rapid modernization. Another delightful part of our journey was that several times Gelu pleasantly surprised by detouring from the planned itinerary to visit small towns or very recent renovations such as to walled town fortifications that had just opened to the public. Culinary experiences were another part of the tour, with Gelu providing expert recommendations for traditional and modern cuisine at local restaurants and cafes and we even dined with local families. Finally, with Gelu's keen enthusiasm for his job, you might find long travel days so make sure you are well rested before you start your travels! ;o)Posted on TripadvisorVerified Extremely knowledgeable guides A VIP experience One of the best experiences ever.The Trandafir brothers left nothing to chance: from airport pick up to hotel reservations, entertainment, entrance fees.Posted on TripadvisorVerified Passionate, Knowledgeable and Truly Dedicated Guide We were so lucky to have Gelu as our guide in Romania! He is incredibly passionate about his country’s culture and history, and his stories brought every place to life. In Brasov and Sibiu, he seemed to know every nook and corner — from hidden alleys to the best photo spots.At the Merry Cemetery, Gelu patiently interpreted the witty tombstone inscriptions for us, helping us understand the deeper meaning behind this unique tradition. He was always patient, dedicated, and helpful — even assisting us with our luggage without hesitation.Thank you, Gelu, for making our Romania trip so memorable. Highly recommended to anyone who wants to experience Romania with a guide who truly loves and knows his country! 🇷🇴✨Posted on TripadvisorVerified Traveling with Gelu If you plan to visit Romania, your first step is to contact Gelu. Gelu is an ideal guide: knowledgeable, personable, articulate, and flexible. His enthusiasm in relating the remarkable history and culture of Romania, his love of nature, his ability to connect with a wide variety of people are all evident and contagious. As a bonus, Gelu's journalistic background adds significantly to what he has to offer. In sum, your journey in Romania will be greatly enhanced by Gelu's companionship.Posted on TripadvisorVerified Outstanding 12-Day Tour with Jello – Highly Recommended! Dear Jello,Thank you for planning and guiding such a wonderful 12-day trip through Transylvania, Maramureș, and Bukovina. Your professionalism, vast knowledge, and engaging style—always with patience, humor, and warmth—made the journey unforgettable.We especially enjoyed visiting unique villages, painted monasteries, palaces, and Jewish heritage sites, all while experiencing Romania’s breathtaking landscapes. Every detail, from local guides to hotel arrangements, was perfectly organized and tailored to our wishes.We will always remember you (and George the driver!) with great appreciation and warmly recommend you to anyone looking for an exceptional travel experience in Romania.Posted on TripadvisorVerified Memorable experience Great tour We visited Brasov, Sighisoara and Maramures. Each place is so unique and has its own character.Glad that we have Gelu, who escorted us throughout the tour. He is so passionate about the history and the country. I learn a lot on Romania. A very memorable experience.Posted on TripadvisorVerified Great tour. True experience It was wonderful in joining this Transylvania tour. The sites we visited are magnificent including Sighisoara, Wooden church, Merry Cemetery, Steam train of Maramures. All have their distinct cultural characteristics. Staying at Maramures village is a very local experience and can get a good understanding of the people’s life there.More important, with Gelu as our guide, his passion and knowledge about the places enhance our understanding on Romania as a whole. It is very lucky to have the chance to meet him.Posted on TripadvisorVerified God bless these lovely people of Maramures This part of the world is almost completely blank to us from Hong Kong as much as Maramures to Hong Kong. It is really a good blessing to have Gelu as escorting the whole trip with us. Gelu just well planned the routes but instead of pushing, he led us to explore the local essences of these places and legendary local figures by our own approaches. He just provided the platform and we decided our own paces and determined how to mingle with many different people. It has displayed explicitly that Gelu is devoted much to the Country that raised him and he is very eager to share with us how deep he cares about these places & people.Posted on TripadvisorVerified Not just any European trip A great trip to Sighisoara & Maramures with Gelu our guide who’s so passionate about Transylvanian culture & traditions. It ended up not just a trip to any European country but a truly special experience. Pleasantly surprised by how well traditions are preserved in Maramures. The cooking class, visits to the village photographer, the craftsmen, the cemetery & wooden churches, and even the horse cart ride were all close encounters with the locals & their culture. Great itinerary well thought of. We feel lucky to come across this travel agency. George who planned our trip was very responsive, came up with ideas that made our trip more enjoyable & gave us advices. They are perfect for private small groups that look for a special cultural experience in Romania.
7-day guided tour
MARAMURES & THE SAXON HEARTLAND
OF TRANSYLVANIA
3-day guided tour
TRANSYLVANIAN CITADELS:
Sibiu-Sighisoara-Brasov
6-day guided tour
ONE WEEK FULL OF TRANSYLVANIA
Castles, fortified churches
4-day guided tour
ON THE MOUNTAIN ROAD
to the Heart of Saxon Transylvania
Find our destinations We offer the best experiences of this region so rich in history and cultural heritage, with an exceptional, unspoiled natural environment. Our family name - Trandafir - means rose, therefore we emphasize privacy, finesse and discretion. Meet our team Of Routes&Roses - Blogging on travel (CLICK and read)
