There Is Much More to Romania Than Dracula
Peles Castle, Romania
Romania often conjures images of gothic legends and dramatic castles, but those who venture further quickly discover a country layered with history, architecture, alpine scenery and authentic rural life.
A recent seven-day journey by one of our clients through Transylvania and western Romania offered a deeper perspective combining cultural cities, mountain passes, medieval fortresses and traditional guesthouses at an unhurried pace.
Travelling privately with a dedicated driver-guide allowed for flexibility, relaxed 9am departures after breakfast, and the freedom to adjust stops based on personal interests. An ideal way to experience a destination that rewards curiosity.
Bucharest & Beyond
Most itineraries begin in Bucharest, a capital that blends grand 19th-century boulevards with a lively and atmospheric Old Town. Staying centrally provides easy access to Revolution Square, historic churches, elegant façades and an ever-evolving dining scene that ranges from traditional Romanian cuisine to contemporary European fare.
A visit to the monumental Palace of the Parliament is worthwhile. One of the largest administrative buildings in the world, it can only be visited on a guided tour, and passports are required for entry. The scale alone offers powerful insight into Romania’s more recent history.
While many travellers opt for a simple day trip from Bucharest to Bran and return, a broader circuit through the country reveals a far richer and more nuanced story, one that extends well beyond a single castle visit.
The Alpine Roads: Transfăgărășan & Transalpina
Two of Europe’s most scenic drives cut dramatically through the Carpathian Mountains.
The Transfăgărășan climbs to 2,042 metres, winding through steep gorges and alpine landscapes before descending into Transylvania. En route sits the impressive Vidraru Dam.
Further west, the Transalpina reaches 2,173 metres and offers equally dramatic scenery.
Travel tip These alpine roads typically close from early November to early June due to snow. Summer travel (June–September) offers clear conditions and comfortable mountain temperatures.
Wildlife is present in the Carpathians, including bears. Visitors should never feed animals, even if others appear to do so.
Transylvanian Cities: Sibiu, Cluj-Napoca & Oradea
Transylvania’s cities showcase Romania’s architectural and cultural diversity.
In Sibiu, 16th-century squares and pastel façades frame cobbled streets. The iconic Bridge of Lies links the upper and lower town, surrounded by Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance buildings.
Cluj-Napoca offers youthful energy alongside elegant Baroque, neoclassical and Art Nouveau architecture.
Less visited but highly rewarding is Oradea. Its Secession-style buildings in soft pinks, blues and creams make it a standout for lovers of Art Nouveau design.
Daily guided walking tours throughout this itinerary brought context and storytelling to each destination — turning architecture into narrative and history into lived experience.
Salt Mines, Fortresses & Medieval Castles
Romania’s history spans Roman settlements, medieval kingdoms and Austro-Hungarian influence.
The vast underground chambers of Salina Turda provide a dramatic subterranean experience. It is extremely popular in peak season, so early arrival is recommended. Visitors can descend deep into the cavernous domes; however, queues can be lengthy during busy periods.
The star-shaped Alba Iulia Fortress is a superb example of Vauban military design and merits several unhurried hours.
In Hunedoara, Corvin Castle (also known as Hunyadi Castle) rises impressively above the town, one of the largest medieval castles in Europe, atmospheric without feeling overwhelmingly crowded.
And of course, there is Bran Castle. Popularly associated with Dracula lore, it attracts significant crowds in summer. Expect narrow staircases, one-way visitor flow and waiting times. Despite this, it remains an evocative and worthwhile stop particularly when balanced with lesser-visited sites throughout the region.
Sinaia & Peleș Castle
In the mountain resort town of Sinaia sits perhaps Romania’s most magnificent castle: Peleș Castle.
Built between 1873 and 1914 for King Carol I, Peleș is lavishly furnished, ornate and exceptionally well preserved. Timed entry operates and queues can be long in peak periods. Visiting with a guide can streamline the process and enhance understanding of its royal history.
Rural Romania & Authentic Hospitality
Beyond the cities and headline attractions lies rural Romania, villages with tiled roofs, vineyard-lined hills and traditional guesthouses serving generous homemade cuisine.
Throughout this journey, countryside stays provided memorable insight into local life: regional cheeses, hearty traditional dishes and fruit liqueurs served in family-run properties. These experiences often become the most meaningful moments of a Romanian itinerary.
Practical Considerations
Best time to visit Late spring to early autumn (May–September) for alpine road access and warm weather. July and August are hottest and busiest.
Pace A private touring format allows flexibility and a more immersive experience.
Driving distances Roads are scenic but winding; allow sufficient travel time.
Crowds Bran Castle, Peleș Castle and Turda Salt Mine are busiest mid-morning to mid-afternoon. Early or later visits are preferable.
Safety Visitors consistently report feeling safe, including when walking in city centres in the evening.
A Deeper Understanding of Romania
Over seven days, our client gained a nuanced understanding of Romania’s history, architecture and way of life — from Roman ruins and medieval fortresses to alpine passes and Art Nouveau cityscapes.
For travellers considering Eastern Europe, Romania offers exceptional value, remarkable diversity and an authenticity that rewards those who venture beyond a single castle visit.
With thoughtful planning and the right local expertise, Romania reveals itself as one of Europe’s most quietly compelling and richly layered destinations.
Our clients touring map
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