Bucharest: Dracula's Castle, Peles Castle, & Brasov Tour｜Romania
- Visit Peles Castle, the former residence of the kings of Romania
- Explore Bran Castle, also known as Dracula's Castle, in Bran
- Learn about the history of Bran Castle and its strategic mission
- Enjoy free time in Brasov and admire the town's historic architecture
- See the preserved old wall, the Black and White Towers, and more
Package options
Sightseeing Tours
| Tour Type | Shared tour |
| Transportation method | Transfer from meeting point |
| Departure Time | Standard Departure (8-9 am) |
| Luggage limit | 1 piece |
| Tour types | Guided tour, Audio guide |
| Meal arrangement | Arrange yourself |
| Additional service & facility | Transfer included |
| Sightseeing type | City walking tour, Historic site tour, Bus tour |
| Transport | Charter car, Bus tour |
Product Info
Know before you book
Reminders
Not Suitable For: Children under 7 years
Not Suitable For: Pregnant women
Not Suitable For: People with mobility impairments
Not Suitable For: Wheelchair users
Not Suitable For: Visually impaired people
Not Suitable For: People with motion sickness
Not Suitable For: Hearing-impaired people
What To Bring: Passport or ID card
What To Bring: Comfortable shoes
What To Bring: Cash
Not Allowed: Pets
Not Allowed: Oversize luggage
Not Allowed: Luggage or large bags
Not Allowed: Smoking in the vehicle
Not Allowed: Food and drinks in the vehicle
Know Before You Go: Peles Castle is closed on Monday and Tuesday all year round. On these days, the exterior and royal gardens remain part of the visit, allowing additional time to explore Bran Castle and Brașov.
Know Before You Go: Peles castle is closed for maintenance from 2nd of November till 1st of December and you can visit Pelisor Castle.
Know Before You Go: If your chosen option does not include castle tickets, you can purchase them directly on the bus with your guide's assistance (subject to availability - cash payment only in EUR or RON)
Know Before You Go: For AudioGuide You will need to have your own smartphone with internet access and headsets
Know Before You Go: Only one small handbag or small backpack is allowed onboard
Know Before You Go: Due to traffic, special events, weather conditions or any other reason beyond our control we can not provide and guarantee the time slot for the entry at either one of the castles before the day of the tour
Know Before You Go: Unforseen events may result delays in arrival time to Bucharest
Know Before You Go: The exact departure time and pick-up will be sent by email the day before the tour
FAQs
1. Why is Bran Castle so famous?
Bran Castle is renowned for its dramatic Gothic architecture and its strong association with the legend of Dracula, earning it the nickname "Dracula's Castle." While its historical link to Vlad the Impaler is debated, the castle's imposing presence atop a rocky hill and its historical role as a medieval fortress guarding a strategic mountain pass have cemented its fame in both Romanian history and popular culture as a captivating and mysterious landmark.
2. Who actually lived in Bran Castle?
Historically, Bran Castle served as a fortress for various Hungarian and Transylvanian rulers, including Teutonic Knights and the local Saxon population of Brasov. Its most notable royal resident was Queen Marie of Romania, who received the castle as a gift from the city of Brasov in 1920. She extensively restored and used it as a royal summer residence, transforming it from a military outpost into a beautiful royal home.
3. What films or media have featured Bran Castle?
Bran Castle's iconic appearance has made it a popular setting for various films, documentaries, and television shows, particularly those related to vampire lore and medieval history. While specific major Hollywood productions often use it as inspiration rather than a direct filming location due to logistical challenges, its image is frequently used to evoke the mystical atmosphere of Transylvania and the Dracula legend in popular media.
4. Who currently owns Bran Castle?
Bran Castle is currently owned by Archduke Dominic Habsburg, the descendant of Princess Ileana of Romania, who inherited it from her mother, Queen Marie. After being nationalized during the communist era, the castle was returned to the Habsburg family in 2009. Today, it operates as a private museum, open to the public, showcasing art and furniture collected by Queen Marie and educating visitors about its rich history.
5. What makes Peles Castle a significant royal residence in Romania?
Peles Castle holds significant historical importance as the former summer residence of the kings of Romania, most notably King Carol I. It was the first European castle to be entirely powered by locally produced electricity and boasts impressive architectural and artistic features. Its role as a royal retreat highlights a key period in Romanian monarchy and state-building, making it a crucial historical landmark.
6. What unique architectural styles define Peles Castle?
Peles Castle is a masterpiece of German New-Renaissance architecture, intricately blending various styles to create a distinctive appearance. It incorporates elements of Gothic Revival, Baroque, and Rococo, with a particular emphasis on traditional German fachwerk (half-timbered) motifs. This fusion of architectural influences reflects the varied tastes of its royal builders and contributes to its unique aesthetic appeal.
7. What historical landmarks should be explored in Brasov Old Town?
Brasov Old Town offers a rich tapestry of historical landmarks. Key sites to explore include the Black Church, a magnificent Gothic cathedral, and the Council Square (Piata Sfatului), which is surrounded by medieval buildings like the Old Town Hall. Visitors can also walk along the preserved old wall sections, discovering watchtowers and gates that speak to the city's medieval defenses.
8. What historical elements can be seen in Brasov, beyond the Old Town walls?
Beyond the main square and city walls of Brasov, visitors can explore other historical elements such as the Black and White Towers. These medieval watchtowers, located on hillsides surrounding the Old Town, offer panoramic views and provide insight into Brasov's strategic defensive past. Additionally, the Schei Quarter, an old Romanian neighborhood outside the former Saxon citadel, showcases unique traditional architecture and history.
