Danube Delta: Day Trips and Tours from Bucharest

Covering over 4,000 square kilometers, the Danube Delta is the second-largest river delta in Europe. This body of water is known for its plethora of wildlife, which includes a host of twittering birds soaring in the skies overhead.

Danube Delta day trips from Bucharest are available for all types of travelers, whether you simply wish to leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind for a few hours, or participate in a multi-day adventure of the peaceful oasis, and its surrounding region.

Here's all you need to know about Danube Delta, one of the most exciting day trips from Bucharest.

How to get to the Danube Delta from Bucharest?

The majority of the Danube Delta is located in Romania, while the other part can be found in neighboring Ukraine. It is approximately 280 kilometers from the city of Bucharest.

From Bucharest to the Danube Delta by car

It takes approximately 3.5 hours to journey to the Danube Delta bar car. While there are several spots to access the river, Tulcea is the one most often used by visitors to the region. To reach this city, you’ll leave Bucharest in an easterly direction along the E81, which you’ll follow as far as Dragalina. There, you’ll turn left onto Route 21, merging onto Route 2A after Slobozia. At Hârșova, you’ll switch onto Route 22A, finally joining the E87 to reach Tulcea.

Guided tour to the Danube Delta from Bucharest

As there is no direct public transportation between the two destinations, the easiest way for those without a car to make the jaunt to the Danube Delta is via an organized tour. These day trips vary in duration, from 1 to 8 days, and usually begin with a convenient hotel pickup. They then drop you back at the same point once your adventure is over.

However, if you opt for a longer excursion to the Danube Delta, you may benefit from an airport pickup.

What is the typical itinerary?

Each Danube Delta day tour features its own unique itinerary, however, they all share similarities. You’ll usually wait in your hotel lobby for collection by a friendly guide at a predetermined time. After boarding your vehicle, you’ll begin the journey toward your first destination.

While this is the river for most excursions, multi-day trips often visit other locations first, such as Maramures and Bucovina, where you’ll participate in guided walks of historic landmarks, learning about the history of Romania. Upon reaching the waterway, most Danube Delta day trips take you on a cruise through its waters and educate you on the fauna of the region. You’ll have the opportunity to spot birds and fish as you travel along, which can be identified by your expert guide. You may also travel to the nearby museum to further develop your knowledge of the river’s ecosystem.

If your excursion lasts more than a day, you’ll spend your nights in comfortable accommodation provided by your operator and indulge in hotel breakfasts each morning before heading out on your daily adventure. Then, once you’ve experienced the best of the Danube Delta, you’ll journey back to Bucharest where your day (or multi-day) trip ends.

What kinds of tours are available to go to the Danube Delta?

There are several Danube Delta day trips to choose between, depending on the additional destinations you wish to see and your own personal travel style.

Private tour to the Danube Delta from Bucharest

Those with just a few hours to spare can opt for a private day trip to the Danube Delta and gain a whirlwind introduction to the area. You’ll benefit from the one-on-one attention of your own personal guide and you’ll travel through Romania’s verdant countryside to the city of Tulcea where you’ll board a boat, and set off on a bird-watching adventure.

As you drift along the water, you’ll have the opportunity to gain a unique view of the nation’s traditional villages, as well as over 300 species of birds, which call the area surrounding the river home.

2-Day tour to the Danube Delta from Bucharest

Alternatively, travel as part of a small group on a 2-day adventure to discover more of the region. On the first day, you’ll explore the Danube Delta Museum, which showcases the diversity of the river and features an on-site aquarium. You’ll also get up close and personal with the waterway yourself on a gentle cruise.

On the second day of your Danube Delta day tour, you’ll head to the city of Constanța, located along the Black Sea, where you’ll roam its historic squares and fascinating landmarks at your leisure.

5-Day trip to the Danube Delta plus Maramures and Bucovina from Bucharest

This Danube Delta multi-day tour takes you through the castle-studded hills and valleys of Transylvania. You’ll visit the town of Maramures where you can gain an insight into centuries-old Romanian traditions and explore its wooden churches, which have been recognized by UNESCO.

You’ll continue on to the Byzantine monasteries of Bucovina, the exteriors of which have been decorated with intricate frescoes that date back to the 15th and 16th centuries. Finally, you’ll experience the tranquil wonderland of the Danube Delta, seeking out its myriad of wildlife that ranges from the white-tailed eagle to the European vimba vimba.

How much does a day trip to the Danube Delta from Bucharest cost?

Private Danube Delta day trips cost US$380 per person if you choose to travel solo. However, you’ll be able to reduce the cost per head by traveling as a group of two or more individuals. If you book as a party of 15 (the maximum group size,) you’ll each pay slightly less than US$100. However, both boat rental and lunch are at your own expense.

If you opt for a 2-day excursion, you’ll pay US$440 per person of any age, which includes accommodation, as well as some meals and the services of a professional guide. Entrance fees to any payable sites are covered by you.

Alternatively, multi-day tours to the Danube Delta, Maramures and Bucovina cost US$760 for adults ages 12, and over. There is a minimum booking requirement of two individuals and the excursion is private for your group. Included in the price are 4 nights of four-star accommodation, as well as all breakfasts and a knowledgeable guide.

What will you see and do?

The Danube Delta is the best-preserved river delta in Europe and began forming around 4,000 B.C. It was created as the Black Sea rose and almost half of this channel has formed over the past 1,000 years. It is still growing at a rate of 40 square meters per year. While the total surface area of the delta is currently just over 4,150 square kilometers, the part located in Romania measures around 3,450 square kilometers, the rest belonging to Ukraine.

The delta is best known for its array of birdlife, of which 274 species were identified over a 20-year span in the 20th century. Since then, it has been confirmed that these numbers have increased to include over 300 species. Among the birds that call the region home is the Dalmatian pelican, which is the biggest bird in Europe with a wing span measuring over 3 meters. The red-breasted goose can also be found here along with the purple heron and pygmy cormorant. The river’s marshes are a particularly popular resting place for both migratory and non-migratory birds.

Not just for bird lovers, the Danube Delta is also a haven for fish enthusiasts, with around 45 species, including pikes, zanders and carp. A wealth of flora can be found surrounding the delta, including an abundance of swaying reeds. Perfectly-formed lotus flowers balance on the still water of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, which can be seen from the deck of a boat on a Danube Delta day tour.

When is the best time to visit the Danube Delta?

The best time to visit the Danube Delta depends on your preferences and the activities you want to participate in.

With its mild climate and abundant flora and fauna, spring is the perfect time to visit the Danube Delta, watch migratory birds and enjoy its vibrant colors.

If you like warm, long days, summer is for you. Boat tours, bird watching, fishing and other outdoor activities are available during this time.

Autumn, on the other hand, is a great season, especially for birdwatchers. It's a great time to see a wide variety of birds, as many migrate. The weather is usually mild, and the delta displays beautiful fall colors.

Travel tips

• Bring insect repellent. Mosquitoes and other insects can be a nuisance, especially in summer. Be sure to bring insect repellent to protect yourself.
• Pack suitable clothing. Dress in layers and bring waterproof clothing, especially if you plan to explore the area on a cruise or on foot. Also, wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain.
• Respect wildlife and the environment. The Danube Delta is a protected area with diverse flora and fauna. Respect their natural habitat by not disturbing wildlife, following designated trails and disposing of waste responsibly.
• Carry binoculars and a camera. Binoculars will enhance your birdwatching experience, while a camera will capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife encounters of the Delta.