Following Count Dracula | SELF DRIVE
Description:
Set off on a memorable self-drive journey through the captivating landscapes of Transylvania. Starting in the vibrant capital of Bucharest, your route leads deep into the Carpathian region, along historic roads that reveal imposing medieval fortresses, misty castles, and fortified churches steeped in legend. These sites echo the story of Vlad III the Impaler, the real-life figure who inspired the Dracula myth. From the dramatic ruins of Poenari Fortress perched high in the mountains to the colorful medieval citadel of Sighișoara and the legendary Bran Castle, each destination blends history, folklore, and stunning scenery. With the flexibility of your own car, you can explore at your own pace, discovering remote villages, scenic mountain routes, and authentic local experiences, all while enjoying carefully selected accommodations and traditional Romanian cuisine.Trip Highlights:
Major cities:
Bucharest - the capital city of Romania
Castles & palaces:
Hunyadi Castle, Bran Castle, Peles Castle
Ancient or medieval cities:
Sibiu, Sighisoara, Brasov
Churches & monasteries:
Curtea de Arges Monastery, Black Church, Snagov Monastery
Citadels and fortresses
Poenari, Alba Iulia, Targoviste
Activities:
brandy tasting, traditional dinner at the locals
Included Services
- 7x nights at centrally located 4**** hotels
- 7 x buffet breakfast
- 1x welcome dinner with foklore show at a restaurant in the old town (3 course meal, 1x water, 1 x glass or wine/beer/soft drink)
- 1x traditional dinner at the locals from Sibiel village incl. wine and brandy and welcome by traditional riders
- 1x brandy tasting (4 brandy types) in Romania (Sighisoara)
- English speaking local guides – max. 3h/tour in: Sibiu (day 3), Sighisoara (day 5), Brasov (day 6)
- Entrance fees for the following sites: Evangelical Church, Hunyadi Castle, Clock Tower, Church on the Hill, Birth House of Dracula, Bran Castle, Black Church, Peles Castle; for other sites the tickets are to be purchesed on the spot
- Transportation is NOT included
Pricing: From 715€
Country: Romania
Language: English
Places You’ll See
A day-by-day plan you can trust
Welcome to Bucharest! Upon arrival, drive to your hotel and check in. Begin exploring the city, often referred to as the “Little Paris of the East,” and discover its landmarks, including the Arch of Triumph, the Romanian Athenaeum, the Palace of Parliament, and the Patriarchal Church. Take a walk through the Old Town to see highlights such as Stavropoleos Church, the National Bank, the History Museum, Lipscani Street, and the Old Princely Court—also known as Dracula’s residence, where Vlad the Impaler is said to have held prisoners. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner accompanied by a folklore show at a restaurant in the Old Town. Overnight in Bucharest. (B)
After breakfast, depart Bucharest and head toward Transylvania. En route to Sibiu, stop at Poenari Fortress to explore one of the most evocative sites linked to Vlad the Impaler. Situated high on a cliff in the Făgăraș Mountains, this 13th-century ruin closely resembles the fictional castle described in Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Reaching the fortress requires climbing 1,480 steps, but the views and atmosphere are unforgettable. Continue to Curtea de Argeș to visit its monastery, a remarkable 16th-century Byzantine-style church that serves as the burial place of Romanian royalty. Admire its intricate decorative elements and learn about the legends surrounding its construction. Proceed to Sibiu for overnight accommodation. (B)
Discover Sibiu on a guided walking tour. Founded in the 12th century by German settlers, it became the largest and wealthiest fortified city in Transylvania. The historic center is divided into the Upper and Lower Towns, connected by the Stairs Passage, and retains a strong medieval character. Recognized for its charm, Sibiu has been listed among the world’s most desirable places to live and was named European Capital of Culture in 2007 alongside Luxembourg. Visit key landmarks such as the Grand Square, Small Square, the Liar’s Bridge, and the Evangelical Cathedral. In the evening, drive to the nearby village of Sibiel, where you will meet a local family and enjoy a traditional home-cooked dinner with wine and brandy. Return to Sibiu for overnight. (B, D)
Today’s journey takes you through important historical sites. First, visit Hunyadi Castle in Hunedoara, Romania’s most impressive Gothic castle. Once the residence of Iancu de Hunedoara, it features a drawbridge, grand halls, and a striking inner courtyard. It is also believed that Vlad the Impaler was once imprisoned here, adding to its mysterious reputation. Continue to Alba Iulia, a city of great national significance, where the unification of Romania was proclaimed. Visit both the Orthodox and Roman Catholic cathedrals—the latter being the oldest in the country—and explore the Alba Carolina Citadel, a well-preserved Habsburg fortress with roots dating back to Roman times. Arrive in Sighișoara in the evening, widely regarded as the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler. Check in and overnight. (B)
Explore Sighișoara, a 13th-century town renowned for its well-preserved medieval atmosphere. During your walking tour, see the Clock Tower, the Church on the Hill, and the house believed to be the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler. Afterward, enjoy a tasting of traditional Romanian brandies at a local wine cellar. Continue to Brașov, often called the “Crown of Transylvania.” Historical accounts suggest that Vlad the Impaler traveled extensively throughout the region, which explains the many stories connected to him across Transylvania. Check in and overnight in Brașov. (B)
After breakfast, travel to Bran to visit the famous Bran Castle, commonly associated with Dracula. Built in the 14th century by Saxon settlers, it originally served as a customs point between Transylvania and Wallachia. Later, it became a royal residence gifted to Queen Marie of Romania. Today, it is the most visited attraction in the region. Return to Brașov for a walking tour of the city. Begin at Council Square, once the central marketplace, and visit the Black Church, the largest Gothic church in Romania, named after a fire in 1689. You will also see Rope Street, one of the narrowest streets in Europe. Overnight in Brașov. (B)
Travel to Sinaia to visit Peleș Castle, widely considered one of Europe’s most beautiful castles and a masterpiece of German Neo-Renaissance architecture. Built in 1873 for King Carol I, it served as the royal family’s summer residence. Continue to Târgoviște to explore the Princely Court, once the residence of Vlad the Impaler during his reign over Wallachia. Although now in ruins, parts of the structure remain, alongside a preserved watchtower and church. Your final stop is Snagov Monastery, located near Bucharest, where legend says Vlad the Impaler was buried after his death. Return to Bucharest for overnight. (B)
Enjoy some free time in Bucharest before your departure transfer. Wishing you a pleasant journey home! (B)
We select high-quality hotels to make your stay as comfortable as possible.
The final list of hotels is to be confirmed after the tour has been booked and paid.
