From Sibiu: Villages, Farm Life & Horse Carriage Ride

Travelers looking to experience the authentic side of Romania often find themselves caught between the must-see cities and the lure of the countryside. This full-day tour from Sibiu offers a thoughtfully curated glimpse into rural life, medieval architecture, and local traditions—perfect for those eager to see beyond tourist hotspots.

What makes this tour stand out are the visits to centuries-old fortified churches, the chance to sample genuine farm-made cheeses, and the rustic horse carriage ride that transports you right into the heart of local life. It’s a well-balanced mix of history, culture, and natural beauty—plus, a hearty Romanian meal to keep you energized. One thing to consider: the tour’s pace can feel full, so comfort with long days on the road or walking is recommended.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventures, especially those interested in history, rural traditions, and local craftsmanship. If you’re craving a day away from crowds with meaningful cultural insights, this tour will hit the spot.

Good To Know

• Authentic Cultural Exposure: Visit medieval fortified churches and learn about their role in village defense.
• Farm-to-Table Tastes: Enjoy fresh cheeses, dairy, and a hearty Romanian lunch prepared with local ingredients.
• Scenic Natural Beauty: Pass through rolling hills and intriguing geological sites, with a short hike through Movile.
• Traditional Rural Experience: Meet farm animals, participate in a sheepfold visit, and experience a horse-drawn carriage ride.
• Historical Architecture: Discover beautiful churches like Câra Abbey, omartin Basilica, and Cincu fortified church.
• Unique Local Quirks: See the famous “Bacon Tower” and explore stories tied to everyday village life.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Strong at Câra Monastery

Your day begins with a comfortable ride from Sibiu to Câra, home to a 13th-century Cistercian Monastery. The guide will share stories about the monks who founded this remote Gothic church in 1202, offering a glimpse into the meticulous effort behind its construction. The church’s simple yet sturdy architecture tells of a time when resourcefulness was key, and the experience of walking through its ancient walls makes history feel surprisingly tangible.

Romanesque and Baroque Marvels in omartin

Next stop is omartin, where you’ll admire its 13th-century Romanesque basilica. The highlight here is the Baroque altar from 1730 by Johann Martin Stock, a piece that adds an artistic touch to the historical setting. The Samuel Mätz organ offers a glimpse into the church’s musical traditions, and the guide enriches this visit with insights into the church’s role as a community anchor, especially in times of conflict and peace.

Cincu’s Fortified Heritage

Then, you’ll visit Cincu, a village proud of its fortified church, with a tower soaring over 49 meters. Inside, marvel at the 1521 altar depicting “Doubting Thomas”, along with historical epitaphs and a Renaissance pulpit—each element telling stories of resilience and collective effort. The church’s strategic location and architectural grandeur highlight how communities fought to preserve their faith and safety.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Authentic Farm Life in Selitat

Perhaps the highlight for many is the visit to Selitat, where you can meet farm animals including sheep, cows, buffalo, and goats, along with friendly guardian dogs. The sheepfold visit features a cheese and milk tasting, giving you a true taste of local farm life. Reviewers mention the “delicious cheeses, like ca, urd, and telemea, fresh from the source,” adding authenticity to the experience. It’s a chance to connect with rural traditions that have sustained generations.

A Romanian Feast

Following the farm visit, you’ll sit down for a traditional Romanian lunch. Expect a generous spread of homemade, locally sourced dishes that offer a hearty, satisfying meal—perfect for fueling the rest of your day of exploration. Many describe this as a “delicious, filling meal that truly showcases regional flavors,” making it a highlight for food lovers.

Scenic Hike in Movile

On the way to Stejriu, your journey takes you through Movile’s rolling hills, where a short hike through natural mounds reveals intriguing geological formations. The guide shares local legends tied to these sites, making the landscape come alive with stories of the past. The natural scenery provides a peaceful counterpoint to the historic sites.

Charming Carriage Ride in Stejriu

The day’s final highlight is the horse-drawn carriage ride through Stejriu, led by a local farmer. This simple, nostalgic mode of transport lets you soak in the tranquil, rural atmosphere. The ride offers photo opportunities and a chance to feel connected to the land. The 14th-century fortified church here is famous for its “Bacon Tower,” a quirky storage area still used to hold local produce—an authentic detail that showcases local ingenuity.

Transportation and Group Size

Transport is in a comfortable vehicle that ensures a smooth ride across scenic routes. The tour operates as a private group, allowing for a relaxed atmosphere and personalized attention from your guide. The duration is about 10 hours, so comfortable footwear and a good attitude for a full day are advisable.

Guides and Language Options

Guides are professional and multilingual, speaking English, Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, and Romanian. This diversity means you’ll get detailed, engaging stories regardless of your language preference, adding depth to each stop.

Price and Value

At $162 per person, this tour offers solid value considering the inclusion of entrance fees to all churches and sites, a local guide, and transportation. The experience of visiting multiple historic sites, sampling farm-fresh products, and enjoying an authentic rural experience makes the cost worthwhile—especially for those interested in history, culture, and nature.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and light hiking.
• Bring layered clothing; outdoor temperatures can vary, especially if you visit in early spring or late autumn.
• Be prepared for long hours on the road, but know that the scenery and experiences compensate.
• If you love cheese and farm-fresh products, don’t forget to ask about local varieties during tastings.
• The horse carriage ride is a relaxed experience—don’t expect anything too fast-paced or adventurous, but it’s charming and photo-worthy.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and anyone interested in experiencing authentic rural Romania. It’s great for travelers who appreciate architecture, local food, and natural landscapes and don’t mind a full day of exploration. Given the focus on walking and mild hikes, it’s best suited for those in good health, but not necessarily for very young children or those with mobility issues.

This full-day tour from Sibiu offers a compelling mix of history, local craftsmanship, and scenic beauty all wrapped into one engaging experience. You’ll walk through centuries-old churches, taste fresh dairy products, and ride in a horse-drawn carriage—each element providing a tangible connection to Transylvania’s vibrant rural traditions. The thoughtfully crafted itinerary ensures you’ll leave feeling both enriched and relaxed, with plenty of stunning photos and memorable stories to take home.

The experience’s value lies not just in the sights but in the authentic interactions and local flavor you encounter along the way. It’s an excellent choice for travelers craving a deeper understanding of Romania’s countryside, especially if you’re curious about the stories behind the architecture and the living traditions that continue today.

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat into nature and culture, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into what makes rural Transylvania so unique.

What is included in the price of $162?
The price covers round-trip transportation, a professional multilingual guide, entrance fees to the monasteries and churches, a sheepfold visit with cheese and milk tasting, a short hike in Movile, a horse-drawn carriage ride, and the entrance fee to Stejriu’s fortified church.

Are meals included?
No, the tour does not include the optional traditional Romanian lunch, which can be purchased separately. Many travelers find the included tastings sufficient, but the lunch is a great opportunity to enjoy hearty regional dishes.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 14 years are not recommended, and those over 95 might find the full-day schedule taxing. The experience is best suited for active, curious travelers comfortable with walking and outdoor activities.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 10 hours, making it a full-day commitment. Be prepared for a day filled with driving, walking, and sightseeing.

What language options are available for guides?
Guides are available in English, Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, and Romanian, ensuring engaging commentary in your preferred language.

Can I expect a small group or a private experience?
This tour is offered as a private group, providing a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for those who prefer a tailored experience.

This tour offers a wonderful opportunity to see rural Romania’s architectural marvels, meet local farmers, and enjoy the slow pace of village life—an experience that stays with you long after the day ends.

You can check if your dates are available here: