The Most Beautiful Advent Markets of Wallachia and Transylvania

On December 12, 2026 (Saturday), we depart from Szeged in the early morning. After crossing the border at Nagylak, we travel past Arad and Timișoara towards the western part of the Southern Carpathians. Our route first follows the Timiș River, then continues through the valleys of the Bela Reca and Cerna rivers, heading south towards the Danube. Along the way, we can catch glimpses from the coach windows of the soaring ruins of Mehadia Fortress and the elegant railway station of Băile Herculane, the famous spa resort dating back to the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy. During the morning, we arrive at the Lower Danube, once the southern frontier of the Kingdom of Hungary and now marking the border between Romania and Serbia. Near Orșova, we catch our first glimpse of the Danube with its elevated water level following the construction of the dam. After travelling for approximately half an hour along the river’s left bank, we reach Drobeta-Turnu Severin, known in Hungarian as Szörényvár, a town frequently mentioned in Danube water-level reports. The Iron Gates Hydroelectric Power Plant was completed here in 1972, creating the largest hydroelectric power complex on the Danube. We have the opportunity to visit the museum located within the power plant, where we learn about the region’s history and geography, as well as the construction and operation of this impressive engineering achievement. We then continue eastwards and soon enter Wallachia, once ruled by Vlad Țepeș, better known as Dracula. In the early afternoon, we arrive in Craiova, a city of approximately 235,000 inhabitants. During Advent, the city is transformed into a true winter wonderland, adorned with spectacular light displays, themed squares and impressive decorations. This year’s Advent market is built around the theme of “The Realm of the Elves,” which inspires its enchanting decorations and festive atmosphere. The market is particularly noteworthy because it was voted Europe’s Best Christmas Market in 2025 by European Best Destinations. During Advent, Craiova is far more than just a Christmas market — it is an entire city transformed into a magical Christmas fairy tale. Its historic buildings, millions of twinkling lights, themed squares and distinctive Oltenian atmosphere combine to create a truly unique Advent destination. There will be an opportunity to enjoy dinner at one of Craiova’s restaurants in the city centre. In the evening, we continue to nearby Slatina, where we check into our accommodation for the night.

After breakfast, we leave Wallachia and travel along the Olt River, through one of the most beautiful river valleys of the Southern Carpathians, towards Transylvania’s Saxon Land. Around midday, we begin exploring the charming historic city of Sibiu, known in Romanian as Sibiu. During Advent, its medieval Old Town and monumental Grand Square are transformed by festive lights and decorations. During our sightseeing tour, we visit the city centre’s elegant historic buildings, including the Brukenthal Palace, one of Transylvania’s most significant Baroque buildings, and the famous Bridge of Lies (Podul Minciunilor). We also draw special attention to one of Sibiu’s most distinctive features, known as the “Eyes of Sibiu” — the unusual dormer windows on the roofs of old houses, which look like enormous eyes watching over the streets below. Sibiu’s Christmas Market was first held in 2007, the very year the city was named European Capital of Culture. Inspired by the atmosphere of Vienna’s Christmas markets, it was the first event of its kind to be organised in Romania in this format. Last year, more than 120 exhibitors offered handcrafted products, Christmas decorations and local delicacies. Among the market’s attractions are a Ferris wheel, a carousel, an ice-skating rink and Santa’s House. During Advent, Sibiu is much more than simply a destination for a Christmas market. Its medieval streets, historic palaces, colourful houses, distinctive “Eyes of Sibiu” and the beautifully illuminated Grand Square combine to create a truly magical atmosphere, making the city an especially enchanting destination during the festive season. We enjoy free time to explore the market, browse the stalls and soak up the festive atmosphere. In the late afternoon, we begin our journey home, with arrival in Szeged expected in the evening.