Curtea de Arges, la ville royale
A small family business, we offer the best experiences of Transylvania, this Romanian and European region so rich in history and cultural heritage, with an exceptional, unspoiled natural environment.
▶ Gelu Trandafir
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+40-723.303.310
À 150 kilomètres au nord-est de Bucarest, Curtea de Arges est une ancienne capitale de la Principauté de Valachie au XIVe siècle, l'une des villes historiques les plus charmantes et les plus remarquables de Roumanie et la porte d'entrée de la spectaculaire route de haute altitude Transfagasaran.
EXCELLENT
Based on 48 reviews
Posted on Tripadvisor
KL LWonderful 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 Tripadvisor
Ron MThe 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 Tripadvisor
robi4513Extremely 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 Tripadvisor
huiyliewPassionate, 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 Tripadvisor
LoveTravel311037Traveling 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 Tripadvisor
Inspire64865233688Outstanding 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 Tripadvisor
Katherine CMemorable 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 Tripadvisor
Lettice CGreat 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 TripadvisorKwok wing talon LGod 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 Tripadvisor
Esther KNot 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.
Curtea de Arges doit également sa réputation de " Ville royale " à la belle église épiscopale, un chef-d'œuvre de marbre et de pierre. Bâtie en 1517, avec des apports architecturaux perses, arméniens et géorgiens, cette église a été choisie au XIXe siècle comme nécropole royale. Les quatre rois roumains - Carol I (1839-1914), Ferdinand (1865-1927), Carol II (1893-1953) et Michael (1921-2017) - et leurs reines - Élisabeth (1843-1916), Marie (1875-1938), Hélène (1896-1982) et Anne (1923-2016) - y reposent de leur sommeil éternel.
Au-delà de cette splendide église épiscopale, chargée de nombreuses mythes, Curtea de Arges est intrinsèquement liée à l'histoire du pays, en particulier à la dynastie des Basarab, fondateurs de la Principauté de Valachie. Au-delà de cette splendide église du monastère, chargée de nombreuses mythes, Curtea de Arges est intrinsèquement liée à l'histoire du pays, en particulier à la dynastie des Basarab, fondateurs de la Principauté de Valachie. Dans la deuxième moitié du XIVe siècle, Curtea de Arges est devenue la deuxième capitale de la Valachie, succédant à Campulung (qui avait été la première capitale en 1330) et précédant Targoviste et Bucarest, où les sièges princiers se sont ensuite installés, Bucarest devenant finalement la capitale de la Roumanie unie. Basarab Ier ou
Basarab le Fondateur (1270-1352)Basarab le Fondateur ,, premier prince de la Maison Basarab, a érigé sa cour et l'église princière Saint-Nicolas à Curtea de Arges. L'église princière a été peinte en 1364-1369 sous le règne du petit-fils de Basarab Ier, Vladislav (1364-1377). Les peintures de l'église orthodoxe Saint-Nicolas sont considérées comme l'un des exemples les plus brillants de la peinture byzantine du XIVe siècle. Sur la colline voisine se trouvent les ruines d'une ancienne église, "San Nicoara". Selon certaines légendes, cette église a été érigée par les épouses catholiques - souvent originaires de familles nobles hongroises - des premiers princes Basarab de Valachie. On TRANSFAGARASAN Mountain Road to the HEART of TRANSYLVANIA - 4-day tour Transfagarasan. Crossing “The Alps of Transylvania”
![curtea de arges monastery 4[1]](https://transylvaniantours.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Curtea_de_Arges_monastery_41.jpg)
![curtea de arges monastery 6[1]](https://transylvaniantours.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Curtea_de_Arges_monastery_61.jpg)
![curtea de arges monastery 5[1]](https://transylvaniantours.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Curtea_de_Arges_monastery_51-scaled.jpg)
![curtea de arges princely church nicolae 1[1]](https://transylvaniantours.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Curtea_de_Arges_Princely_Church_Nicolae_11-scaled.jpg)
![curtea de arges princely church nicolae 2[1]](https://transylvaniantours.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Curtea_de_Arges_Princely_Church_Nicolae_21.jpg)
![curtea de arges ruins san nicoara[1]](https://transylvaniantours.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Curtea_de_Arges_ruins_San_Nicoara1.jpg)
![curtea de arges san nicoara ruins[1]](https://transylvaniantours.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Curtea_de_arges_San-Nicoara_ruins1.jpg)
À 150 kilomètres au nord-est de Bucarest, Curtea de Arges est une ancienne capitale de la Principauté de Valachie au XIVe siècle, l'une des villes historiques les plus charmantes et les plus remarquables de Roumanie et la porte d'entrée de la spectaculaire route de haute altitude Transfagasaran.
EXCELLENTBased on 48 reviewsPosted on TripadvisorKL LWonderful 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 TripadvisorRon MThe 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 Tripadvisorrobi4513Extremely 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 TripadvisorhuiyliewPassionate, 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 TripadvisorLoveTravel311037Traveling 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 TripadvisorInspire64865233688Outstanding 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 TripadvisorKatherine CMemorable 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 TripadvisorLettice CGreat 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 TripadvisorKwok wing talon LGod 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 TripadvisorEsther KNot 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.
Curtea de Arges doit également sa réputation de " Ville royale " à la belle église épiscopale, un chef-d'œuvre de marbre et de pierre. Bâtie en 1517, avec des apports architecturaux perses, arméniens et géorgiens, cette église a été choisie au XIXe siècle comme nécropole royale. Les quatre rois roumains - Carol I (1839-1914), Ferdinand (1865-1927), Carol II (1893-1953) et Michael (1921-2017) - et leurs reines - Élisabeth (1843-1916), Marie (1875-1938), Hélène (1896-1982) et Anne (1923-2016) - y reposent de leur sommeil éternel.
Au-delà de cette splendide église épiscopale, chargée de nombreuses mythes, Curtea de Arges est intrinsèquement liée à l'histoire du pays, en particulier à la dynastie des Basarab, fondateurs de la Principauté de Valachie. Au-delà de cette splendide église du monastère, chargée de nombreuses mythes, Curtea de Arges est intrinsèquement liée à l'histoire du pays, en particulier à la dynastie des Basarab, fondateurs de la Principauté de Valachie. Dans la deuxième moitié du XIVe siècle, Curtea de Arges est devenue la deuxième capitale de la Valachie, succédant à Campulung (qui avait été la première capitale en 1330) et précédant Targoviste et Bucarest, où les sièges princiers se sont ensuite installés, Bucarest devenant finalement la capitale de la Roumanie unie. Basarab Ier ouBasarab le Fondateur (1270-1352)Basarab le Fondateur ,, premier prince de la Maison Basarab, a érigé sa cour et l'église princière Saint-Nicolas à Curtea de Arges. L'église princière a été peinte en 1364-1369 sous le règne du petit-fils de Basarab Ier, Vladislav (1364-1377). Les peintures de l'église orthodoxe Saint-Nicolas sont considérées comme l'un des exemples les plus brillants de la peinture byzantine du XIVe siècle. Sur la colline voisine se trouvent les ruines d'une ancienne église, "San Nicoara". Selon certaines légendes, cette église a été érigée par les épouses catholiques - souvent originaires de familles nobles hongroises - des premiers princes Basarab de Valachie. On TRANSFAGARASAN Mountain Road to the HEART of TRANSYLVANIA - 4-day tour Transfagarasan. Crossing “The Alps of Transylvania”
A small family business, we offer the best experiences of Transylvania, this Romanian and European region so rich in history and cultural heritage, with an exceptional, unspoiled natural environment.
▶ Gelu Trandafir
Follow us
on Facebook
Follow us
on Twitter
@RoTourGuide
Read our reviews
on Tripadvisor
Contact us
+40-723.303.310
