Following Count Dracula: A Transylvanian Adventure

After breakfast, depart the capital to venture into the legendary land of Transylvania. En route to Sibiu, stop at Poenari Fortress to immerse yourself in the legend of the infamous Count. Situated on a remote peak along the cliffs of the Făgăraș Mountains, the 13th-century ruins of Poenari Castle closely resemble the fictional residence described by Bram Stoker and remain largely untouched and difficult to access. Reaching the citadel requires climbing 1,480 concrete steps. Continue to Curtea de Argeș and visit the Curtea de Argeș Monastery, an impressive 16th-century Byzantine-style church housing the tombs of several Romanian kings. Admire its intricate Moorish-inspired decorations and learn about the dark legends tied to its construction. Afterwards, continue to Sibiu. Overnight in Sibiu. (B)

Enjoy a guided walking tour of Sibiu, the largest and wealthiest fortified city built in Transylvania during the 12th century by German settlers. The town features a pedestrian-friendly layout with two levels—the Upper Town and the Lower Town—connected by the Stairs Passage. Preserving its remarkable medieval charm, Sibiu was ranked by Forbes among the top 10 most idyllic places to live and served as European Capital of Culture in 2007, alongside Luxembourg. Visit the Grand Square, the Small Square, the Liar’s Bridge, and the impressive Evangelical Cathedral. In the evening, travel to the village of Sibiel, meet a local family, and enjoy a traditional home-cooked dinner accompanied by wine and brandy. Return to Sibiu for overnight. (B, D)

In the morning, set out on a historical journey. The first stop is Hunyadi Castle in Hunedoara, the most impressive Gothic-style castle in Romania. Once the residence of Iancu de Hunedoara, one of Transylvania’s greatest rulers, it was transformed from a fortress into the magnificent structure seen today. With its drawbridge, grand medieval hall, inner courtyard, and strong defensive features, the castle is also linked to the imprisonment of Vlad the Impaler and is surrounded by tales of haunting spirits. Continue to Alba Iulia, the symbolic site of Romania’s Great Union. Visit both the Orthodox Cathedral and the Roman Catholic Cathedral—the oldest preserved cathedral in Romania—and explore the Habsburg-era Alba Carolina Citadel, built on the foundations of a former Roman settlement. In the evening, arrive in Sighisoara, believed to be the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler. Check-in and overnight. (B)

Dating back to the 13th century, Sighisoara captivates visitors with its authentic medieval atmosphere. During a walking tour, admire the Clock Tower, the Church on the Hill, and the Birthplace of Dracula. It is believed that Vlad Dracul, father of Vlad the Impaler, lived in this house, where the notorious Count is said to have spent his early years. The truth unfolds during the interior visit. Afterwards, enjoy a tasting of traditional Romanian brandies at a local wine cellar before heading to Brasov, known as the Crown of Transylvania. Historical records indicate that Vlad the Impaler traveled extensively through Transylvania without settling permanently, which explains the widespread legends associated with him across the region. Check-in and overnight in Brasov. (B)

After breakfast, depart for Bran to visit the famous Dracula Castle. Nestled within the forested hills and surrounded by mystery and legend, Bran Castle was built by German Saxons in the 14th century and served for centuries as a customs post between Transylvania and Wallachia. In 1920, it became a royal residence, gifted by the citizens of Brasov to Queen Marie of Romania. Today, it is globally renowned as the setting associated with Bram Stoker’s fictional Count Dracula and is the most visited attraction in Transylvania. Return to Brasov for a walking tour beginning at Council Square (Marktplatz). Highlights include the Black Church—the largest Gothic church between Vienna and Istanbul—named after the Great Fire of 1689, as well as Rope Street, the narrowest street in Europe. Overnight in Brasov. (B)

Today’s journey begins with a drive to Sinaia to visit Peles Castle, widely regarded as one of Europe’s most beautiful castles. A masterpiece of German Neo-Renaissance architecture, it was commissioned by King Carol I in 1873 and served as the royal summer residence until 1947. Continue to Targoviste to explore the Princely Court, known as the true residence of Vlad the Impaler, who ruled Wallachia from here for seven years. Although now mostly in ruins, parts of the walls remain, along with a preserved watchtower and a nearby intact church. The final stop is Snagov Monastery, located near Bucharest, where Vlad the Impaler is believed to have been killed by the Turks and secretly buried by monks. Overnight in Bucharest. (B)

Enjoy some leisure time in Romania’s capital before departure. Transfer to the airport for your flight. Have a safe journey! (B)