Bucharest: Taste the Magic of Wine in Romanias Tuscany

If you’re a wine lover or simply curious about Romania’s burgeoning wine scene, this day trip from Bucharest offers a compelling mix of scenic beauty, premium wines, and authentic gastronomy. While I haven’t personally taken this specific tour, the detailed reviews and itinerary points paint a picture of a well-organized experience designed to delight both connoisseurs and casual wine enthusiasts alike.

What immediately stands out are the stunning views of the Dealul Mare region, often called the “Tuscany of Romania” because of its lush vineyards and rolling hills. The visit to two acclaimed wineries—La Certa and Budureasca— promises a deep dive into Romanian wine craftsmanship, with options to taste a broad selection of wines. Plus, there’s the chance to indulge in a traditional Romanian lunch, perfect for enriching your knowledge of local flavors.

One potential consideration is the full-day duration (around 10 hours), which might be quite long for some travelers, especially if you prefer shorter excursions. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy wine, scenic countryside, and authentic culinary experiences, and who don’t mind a full day of exploring.

Good To Know

• Scenic Vineyard Region: Located 100 km from Bucharest, the Dealul Mare area offers picturesque landscapes and a strong wine tradition.
• Premium Winery Visits: Experience La Certa’s modern approach and Budureasca’s blend of tradition and innovation.
• Flexible Tasting Options: Taste between 3 and 6 wines at each winery, with the cost paid directly by guests.
• Authentic Culinary Experience: Optional traditional Romanian lunch complements the wine tour.
• Expert Guidance: Led by an English-speaking sommelier and wine expert, ensuring informative and engaging visits.
• Full-Day Experience: Approximately 10 hours, including transportation, winery tours, tastings, and optional lunch.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Dealul Mare Wine Region

The Dealul Mare region is a standout destination just an hour and a half from Bucharest, often called Romania’s “Tuscany” thanks to its scenic vineyards and historic wine-making traditions. This area is home to over 50 renowned wineries, making it a significant hub for wine production in the country. The variety of climates and soils here creates a diverse palette of wines, from crisp whites to robust reds.

The tour’s journey begins with a pickup in Bucharest, after which you’ll travel comfortably in a limousine, enjoying the beautiful countryside views along the two-hour ride. This is a perfect chance to relax before the immersive winery visits.

La Certa Winery: Modern Elegance Meets Quality

Your first stop is at La Certa Winery, a modern facility that masterfully combines cutting-edge technology with respect for traditional winemaking methods. According to reviews, La Certa offers a sleek, contemporary atmosphere, often appreciated by visitors seeking a more innovative approach to wine production.

Here, you’ll take a guided tour of the winery’s facilities—seeing the production process up close—and then move on to the tasting room. Tasting 3 to 6 wines here allows you to experience a range of styles, from local grape varieties to international blends. The wines are described as award-winning, with many visitors noting the impressive quality considering Romania’s emerging reputation in the wine world.

The landscape around La Certa is also a highlight, with panoramic views that make the tasting experience even more memorable.

Budureasca Winery: Tradition Meets Innovation

Next, the tour heads to Budureasca Winery, which boasts a long-standing history in the region. Travelers often comment on the warm, inviting atmosphere and the passionate approach of the winemakers. The winery is known for balancing tradition with modern techniques, resulting in wines that are both authentic and refined.

A guided tour here digs into how the terroir influences each vintage and offers insight into the blending process. Like La Certa, you can sample 3 to 6 wines, with a focus on balanced, expressive wines that showcase the region’s unique character.

Many reviews mention the beautiful, well-maintained vineyards surrounding the winery, and the tasting room itself often receives praise for its cozy yet elegant ambiance.

The Tasting Experience: What to Expect

While the cost of wine tasting (ranging from 70 to 200 RON per person) is not included in the tour price, it covers the selection of wines you sample at each winery. Expect to taste a variety of styles—crisp whites, full-bodied reds, and possibly some sparkling or rosé options—depending on your preferences and the winery’s offerings.

Guests often note that the wines are of excellent quality, especially considering Romania’s less-known status in the international wine scene. Some reviews mention that the wines are quite affordable, especially when compared to similar experiences in more traditional wine regions.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Optional Traditional Romanian Lunch

After the winery visits, the tour offers an optional traditional Romanian lunch, a fantastic way to experience authentic flavors like sarmale (cabbage rolls), mici (grilled sausages), and hearty stews. Reviewers highlight that the lunch is a great complement to the wine tasting, providing a full culture.

If you’re not in the mood for a heavy meal, or simply want to keep the experience focused on wine, you can opt to head straight back to Bucharest. The flexibility of this option is one of the tour’s key strengths.

Practical Details and Tips

The tour operates with live English and Romanian-speaking guides, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers. The full-day schedule lasts around 10 hours, including transportation, winery visits, tastings, and optional lunch.

Transport is a private limousine, providing comfort on the roughly 2-hour ride to and from the region. This level of comfort and personalized attention makes the day feel more exclusive.

Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing—the scenic landscapes are best enjoyed with a good walk and some time outdoors. Don’t forget your camera, as the views around the vineyards are picture-perfect.

The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or people with mobility issues, due to the full-day nature and walking involved.

The Sum Up

This wine tour from Bucharest offers a well-rounded blend of scenic beauty, high-quality wines, and local flavor. It’s ideal for those who want to explore Romania’s lesser-known wine regions without the hassle of planning, and who appreciate the chance to taste a variety of wines in a relaxed, scenic setting.

The combination of modern and traditional wineries ensures a comprehensive perspective on Romanian winemaking. The optional lunch adds a cultural touch, making it a full-day experience that combines taste, sight, and story.

For travelers keen on discovering Romania beyond Bucharest’s city streets, this tour provides a thoughtful, engaging way to see the countryside, learn about local wines, and enjoy authentic cuisine—all with expert guidance.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The full experience lasts around 10 hours, including travel, winery visits, tastings, and lunch if you choose it.

What is the transportation like?
You’ll be traveling in a private limousine, offering comfort and convenience for the two-hour drives each way.

Are the wine tastings included in the price?
No, the tastings are paid separately by your, with prices ranging from 70 to 200 RON per person, depending on the winery and number of wines tasted.

Can I skip the lunch?
Yes, the traditional Romanian lunch is optional. You can choose to head straight back to Bucharest after the winery visits.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While wine tastings are part of the experience, non-drinkers can still enjoy the scenic views, guided tours, and cultural insights. However, participating fully involves tasting the wines.

Is it a group experience or private?
The tour is arranged for a private group, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.

Do I need to prepare anything before the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, sun protection, and water. Make your reservations at least 24 hours in advance to secure your spot.

In the end, this wine tour presents a fantastic way to spend a day outside of Bucharest, combining scenic landscapes with the chance to sample Romania’s emerging wine scene. Whether you’re a dedicated oenophile or simply curious about Romanian culture, this experience offers both education and enjoyment—making it a memorable addition to your travel itinerary.

You can check if your dates are available here: