Romanian Stiching Tour
The “Discover IA” tour is a 10-day cultural journey through Romania and the Republic of Moldova, dedicated to exploring the traditional Romanian blouse, the IA, and the ancestral craftsmanship behind it. The IA is not only a garment but also a symbol of Romanian identity, reflecting centuries of traditions, beliefs, and artistic expression. Throughout the tour, participants learn traditional embroidery techniques, meet authentic artisans, explore historical regions, and enjoy local cuisine
Day 1 – Arrival in Romania and Transfer to FăgăraÈ™
Travelers arrive at one of the international airports in Bucharest, Sibiu, or Brașov and are transferred to Făgăraș, an area known for its rich textile traditions. Accommodation is provided in renovated traditional guesthouses. In the evening, guests enjoy a welcome dinner and an introduction to the upcoming program.
Day 2 – FăgăraÈ™: First Craft Workshop and Introduction to the IA
The first workshop takes place inside Făgăraș Fortress under the guidance of ethnologist Ms. Bajenaru. Participants learn about the regional diversity of IA motifs and begin stitching their first embroidery samples. After lunch, the group visits local village museums and meets artisans. Dinner is served at a restaurant owned by the renowned Transylvanian chef Daniela Graur
Day 3 – FăgăraÈ™: Second Embroidery Workshop and Local Visits
The day continues with another workshop hosted by Alina from “Mândra Chic,” a textile museum and creative space. Participants discover weaving traditions and explore local cultural landmarks, including the stone mill in Ohaba, Sâmbăta de Sus Monastery, and the Lisa whirlpools. Dinner again highlights authentic Transylvanian cuisine.
Day 4 – FăgăraÈ™ – Viscri – Bicaz Gorge – Bucovina
The group leaves Transylvania, stopping in Viscri to visit King Charles III’s first restored house in Romania. The journey continues through the Eastern Carpathians and the Bicaz Gorge, ending in Bucovina—famous for its painted monasteries and preserved traditions. Dinner features regional Bucovinian dishe
Day 5 – Bucovina: Distinctive Motifs and Techniques
The group meets Andrei Vladimir, a young craftsman dedicated to traditional weaving and embroidery. Bucovina is notable for two IA features: bead embroidery and the “altiță,” the intricate shoulder section that originated here. Participants practice these techniques during an extended workshop and enjoy dinner with a local family.
Day 6 – The Painted Monasteries of Bucovina
After a morning cooking class, participants visit three UNESCO-listed painted monasteries: Moldovița, Sucevița, and Voroneț. At Moldovița, they are welcomed with blessed wine and traditional cake. Dinner is once again hosted by the same local family
Day 7 – Bucovina – IaÈ™i – Republic of Moldova (MirceÈ™ti Winery)
The journey continues eastward with optional visits to monastic workshops. After a city tour of Iași, the group heads to Mircești Winery in Moldova for a wine tasting, dinner pairing, and overnight stay on the estate
Day 8 – Moldovan Crafts and Walking Tour of ChiÈ™inău
After visiting Frumoasa Monastery, the group arrives at the “Parents’ House” Craft Centre in Palanca for an IA workshop led by the “Măiestria” community. A homemade lunch is served. In ChiÈ™inău, participants check in to a 4-star hotel and enjoy a guided walking tour of the capital’s main landmarks.
Day 9 – Museums, History, and Wine in Moldova
The day begins with a visit to the Museum of Handicrafts and National Carpets, followed by an embroidery workshop. The group then explores Orheiul Vechi, an open-air museum and iconic historical site. After visiting the famous Cricova underground cellars, the tour concludes with a farewell dinner and wine tasting at Luca Wine House.
Day 10, Wednesday 14th October