Bucharest comes alive during the Christmas season in ways that truly highlight its unique charm. Unlike many European capitals that rely on grand cathedrals or historic squares alone, Bucharest offers a lively mix of markets, traditions, and local stories that make the holidays special. We particularly love tours that go beyond the obvious — like the Tour of Christmas traditions & decorations, which takes you into the heart of Romanian holiday customs, tasting local foods and hearing stories about Christmas as it was during communist Romania. Watching the city’s lights and decorations flicker on the boulevards is breathtaking, but what makes Bucharest stand out are its authentic traditions and lively markets that truly capture the spirit of the season.
While the city’s Christmas markets are charming on their own, some tours extend the experience outside Bucharest. Day trips to Sibiu or Craiova let you experience regional Christmas markets in medieval settings, while the Grand Balkan Christmas Tour offers an extensive 12-day holiday journey through seven Balkan countries, blending festive markets with scenic sightseeing. Whether you’re after a short city walk or a longer Balkan adventure, this list covers a variety of options for every type of traveler.
Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each top-rated Christmas tour — from cozy city walks to full-blown multi-country tours. Each offers its own flavor of holiday cheer, so read on to discover which fits your holiday plans best.
1. Bucharest: Tour of Christmas traditions & decorations
This tour of Bucharest’s Christmas traditions & decorations is a fantastic choice for those who want to see the city through local eyes. Priced at just $31.90 per person and lasting about three hours, it offers a deep dive into Romanian holiday customs, from age-old traditions to the modern-day celebrations you see today. Your guide, Ali, will take you to the city’s most iconic spots, starting with the National Theatre Ion Luca Caragiale. Here, you’ll admire some of the most stunning Christmas decorations in the city, especially along the boulevard in front of the theatre. The walk through University Square follows, where you’ll find one of the most popular Christmas markets, perfect for tasting traditional Romanian wine and browsing handmade crafts.
Later, you’ll wander the narrow streets of Bucharest’s Old Town, hearing stories about Christmas customs, some of which are delightfully quirky. The highlight is the Palace of Parliament, where the large Christmas Market in Constitution Square features five million lights and traditional foods. The tour’s reviews consistently praise Ali’s friendly, knowledgeable approach and her ability to weave history and traditions seamlessly. If you’re short on time but want a real taste of local holiday spirit, this walking tour delivers a lively, authentic experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want an affordable, engaging introduction to Bucharest’s Christmas celebrations, with a focus on local traditions, food, and city sights.
2. Bucharest: Sibiu Christmas Market Day Trip with Transfers
For those craving a winter escape to a fairy-tale setting, the Sibiu Christmas Market day trip offers a full day of holiday magic. At $69 per person, this 12-hour journey transports you from Bucharest to the medieval town of Sibiu in Transylvania — a place renowned for its enchanting Christmas market. The trip includes comfortable transfers and a guided walk through Sibiu’s cobblestone streets, where the market stalls overflow with artisanal gifts, local crafts, and festive treats. You’ll also explore the city’s highlights, including the impressive Evangelical Cathedral, with plenty of time to soak in the lively atmosphere, enjoy live folk performances, and sample traditional foods.
What makes this trip stand out is not just the setting but the combination of cultural exploration and seasonal cheer. The medieval architecture and cozy market stalls create the perfect backdrop for holiday photos and souvenir shopping. The reviews mention the friendly local guide and the well-organized itinerary as key benefits, making it ideal for travelers wanting a taste of Transylvania’s Christmas magic without the hassle of planning. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy exploring historic towns and love the idea of combining sightseeing with festive markets.
Bottom Line: A great choice for history lovers and fans of authentic Christmas markets in a scenic, storybook setting — all in one manageable day trip.
3. Grand Balkan Christmas Tour: 12-Day From Bucharest, Romania
If you’re looking for a comprehensive holiday experience that combines Christmas markets with scenic Balkan sights, the Grand Balkan Christmas Tour is the ultimate pick. Over 12 days, this private tour visits seven countries, including Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and Montenegro, with plenty of seasonal stops along the way. You’ll explore UNESCO-listed towns like Veliko Tarnovo and Ohrid, enjoy cozy dinners and local holiday traditions, and shop at festive markets in each city.
This tour features carefully chosen accommodations and private transport, making traveling between countries smooth and comfortable. The focus on Christmas markets, medieval castles, and scenic coastlines makes it suitable for travelers who want diversity in their holiday trip. While the price isn’t listed here, the itinerary promises a well-rounded Balkan holiday with plenty of cultural and seasonal highlights. The reviews are not listed, but previous similar Balkan tours emphasize quality guides and memorable scenery.
Bottom Line: Best for adventurous travelers who want a deep, multi-country Balkan Christmas experience with a mix of cultural sights and seasonal festivities.
4. Bucharest: Christmas Lights and Mulled Wine Tour
This lights and mulled wine tour offers a relaxed way to enjoy Bucharest’s holiday sparkle. Lasting about a day, it’s perfect if you want to focus on the city’s most dazzling Christmas displays, especially the enormous decorated tree and the cozy atmosphere of mulled wine. The tour highlights include strolling through the beautifully lit streets, discovering small seasonal details, and learning about local Christmas customs from your guide.
A notable feature is the exclusive peek into the process of creating unique Christmas ornaments, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at how holiday magic is made. Perfect for those who enjoy visual delights and festive drinks, this tour is less about sightseeing and more about soaking up the holiday ambiance. While reviews are not available, the emphasis on seeing the city’s lights and tasting mulled wine suggests a warm, intimate experience suitable for couples or small groups.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for lovers of Christmas lights and cozy, one-of-a-kind holiday moments in the city.
5. From Bucharest: Craiova Christmas Market Day Trip
Finally, the Craiova Christmas Market day trip combines scenic driving with the magic of a large, beautiful holiday market. For $69 per person, this 12-hour excursion takes you through the Romanian countryside to Craiova, where the festive market is one of Europe’s most stunning. The market features stalls packed with handcrafted gifts, traditional Romanian foods, and holiday decorations, all set against a backdrop of charming architecture.
Reviews are not listed, but the itinerary emphasizes the relaxed pace and regional charm, making it suitable for those wanting a festive day outside Bucharest. The ride itself offers a chance to appreciate Romania’s winter landscape, and the market experience provides ample opportunities for souvenir shopping and sampling local culinary delights. It’s a good fit for travelers craving a mix of scenery and Christmas cheer without the crowds of larger city markets.
Bottom Line: A scenic, cultural day trip for anyone who appreciates regional holiday markets and scenic drives.
How to Choose Your Perfect Bucharest Christmas Tour
When planning your holiday experience, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If you want an authentic taste of Romanian Christmas traditions without breaking the bank, the Tour of Christmas traditions & decorations is ideal. Looking for a medieval winter wonderland? The Sibiu day trip is perfect. For a longer, multi-country adventure, the Grand Balkan Christmas Tour offers an immersive experience.
If your focus is city lights and festive drinks, the Bucharest Christmas Lights and Mulled Wine Tour provides a relaxed, intimate evening. For those who prefer a scenic countryside with a festive market, the Craiova day trip combines both.
Booking early is advisable, especially during the busy Christmas season, as popular tours fill quickly. Think about what kind of experience excites you most — whether it’s wandering festive markets, exploring scenic towns, or traveling across borders for a Balkan adventure — and pick the option that matches your holiday spirit.
Bucharest’s Christmas offerings range from simple city walks to extensive Balkan tours, covering all tastes and schedules. Whether you want a quick city stroll, a day in Sibiu, or a grand multi-country holiday, these tours can make your Christmas season memorable. For a small cost, you’ll enjoy authentic traditions, stunning decorations, and warm holiday cheer. Book early, plan well, and enjoy the magic of the season in Romania’s capital and beyond.