How to Plan Your Bucharest Full-Day Trip to Dracula Castle, Peles, and Brasov

Looking for an exciting adventure in Romania? From Gothic castles to medieval towns and stunning landscapes, this full-day tour from Bucharest has got it all. Follow these steps to plan your perfect trip.

Step 1: Book Your Tour

Before you set off on your adventure, you need to book your tour. The Dracula Castle, Peles & Brasov Full-Day Trip can be booked online, and you can choose from different options depending on your preferences.

Step 2: Check the Itinerary

This full-day tour spans 12 hours and includes the following stops:

Peleș Castle (Guided Tour & Free Time)

Your first stop is Peleș Castle, a former royal residence considered one of the most beautiful of its kind in Europe. You’ll enjoy a guided tour of this stunning monument, followed by some free time to explore the majestic gardens surrounding the castle.

Brasov (Free Time)

Next, you’ll head to Brasov, a medieval Saxon town located in the heart of Transylvania. Here, you’ll have plenty of free time to explore the city’s narrow cobbled streets, charming cafes, and historic buildings. Make sure to check out the 14th-century Black Church, one of Brasov’s most famous landmarks.

Bran Castle (Guided Tour & Free Time, Optional Extra Fee)

Your next stop is Bran Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle. This Gothic fortress is perched on a hilltop overlooking the town of Bran, and it’s said to be the inspiration behind Bram Stoker’s famous novel. You’ll enjoy a guided tour of the castle before having some free time to explore the charming town below.

Bucharest

Finally, you’ll arrive back in Bucharest, where you’ll be dropped off at your pickup point.

Step 3: Check the Highlights

This full-day tour is packed with highlights, including:

– A guided tour of Peleș Castle, one of Europe’s most beautiful royal residences
– Free time to explore the medieval town of Brasov and its famous Black Church
– A guided tour of Bran Castle, the inspiration behind Bram Stoker’s Dracula
– Pickup and drop-off from select addresses in Bucharest
– Headsets to hear your guide clearly during all guided tours
– The services of an experienced tour guide

Step 4: Check the Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes:

– Pickup and drop-off from select addresses in Bucharest
– Transport
– Guided tours of Peleș Castle and Bran Castle
– Headsets to hear your guide clearly
– The services of an experienced tour guide

The tour excludes:

– Lunch
– Photo fees
– Entrance fees (for Bran Castle)

Step 5: Bring the Essentials

To ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable trip, make sure you bring:

– Comfortable walking shoes
– A warm jacket (especially in winter)
– A camera to capture the stunning scenery and landmarks
– Snacks and water (there will be some opportunities to purchase food, but it’s always a good idea to bring some extras)

Step 6: Learn About the Culture

Romania has a rich and fascinating culture, and it’s worth learning about some customs and traditions before your trip. For example:

– Romania has a strong tradition of folklore, with many legends and myths surrounding Dracula and other mythical figures. You may hear some of these stories during your tour.
– Romanian cuisine is diverse and flavorful, with influences from Turkish, Italian, and Hungarian cuisines. Make sure to try traditional dishes like sarmale (cabbage rolls) and mici (grilled meatballs) during your trip.
– The Romanian language uses the Latin alphabet, but it also has some unique characters and sounds. Some basic Romanian phrases to learn include “bună ziua” (hello), “mulțumesc” (thank you), and “la revedere” (goodbye).

Step 7: Enjoy Your Trip!

With all the logistics and planning taken care of, all that’s left to do is enjoy your trip. Relax and take in the stunning surroundings as you explore the best of Transylvania on this full-day tour from Bucharest.

An Insider’s Guide to Bucharest: Discover Hidden Gems Beyond the Tourist Spots

Bucharest, the capital of Romania, is a city that has a rich history and culture to offer to travelers. While some tourists only know Bucharest for its famous landmarks like the Palace of the Parliament and The Old Town, the city has so much more to offer than just those tourist spots. As a local, I’m excited to share with you some hidden gems that you won’t find in a guidebook. So let’s dive into the real Bucharest and explore everything this fascinating city has to offer!

Local Attractions: Discover Hidden Gems Known Only to Locals

Bucharest has more than just the Old Town and Palace of Parliament. If you’re looking for something off the beaten path, visit the Bellu Cemetery. It’s one of the oldest cemeteries in the city, and many famous people are buried there, like the writer Ion Creanga and the artist Theodor Aman. You’ll find beautiful sculptures, mausoleums, and impressive monuments that tell stories about the history of Bucharest.

Another hidden gem is the Herastrau Park, which is the largest park in Bucharest. It’s an excellent place for a picnic with friends or a walk in the fresh air. You can rent a bike or take a boat ride on the lake. Don’t forget to visit the Village Museum located inside the park, which showcases rural life from different regions of the country.

Dining Spots: Indulge in Local Cuisine and Learn About the City’s Food Culture

For traditional Romanian dishes, try Caru’ cu Bere, a historic brewery and restaurant in the Old Town. They serve traditional food like sarmale (stuffed cabbage), mici (grilled meat rolls), and papanasi (a type of doughnut). The interior is stunning, with Art Nouveau decorations and stunning stained-glass windows.

If you’re looking for something different, Murmur Restaurant serves vegetarian and vegan dishes with unique flavors and ingredients. They source their produce from local farmers and use organic ingredients, and their menu changes daily. Don’t forget to try the avocado and chickpea hummus and the zucchini fritters.

Cultural Experiences: Discover the City’s Traditions, Festivals, Art, Music, and Customs

Bucharest boasts a vibrant cultural scene, and there is always something exciting happening. If you’re in town during the summer, don’t miss the George Enescu Festival, a biennial classical music festival held in honor of the famous composer born in Romania.

For a taste of the traditional music scene, visit the taverns in the Lipscani district in the Old Town. There, you can listen to live music and enjoy Romanian food and drinks like tuica, a plum brandy.

Local History: Learn About Bucharest’s Fascinating Past

Bucharest has a vivid and often turbulent history, and the city is full of fascinating stories and legends. Visit the Ceausescu Mansion, where the former communist leader and his wife used to live, which is now a museum. It provides an insightful view of their opulent lifestyle and a glimpse into their life together.

Another intriguing spot is the Bellu Cemetery, where you can discover the tombs of Romania’s most famous and influential figures. You’ll learn about the country’s history and its leaders. For a more unusual visit, check out the abandoned hospital of Colţea, a 300-year-old building with an eerie atmosphere.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Make Your Visit Unforgettable

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, visit the Comana Natural Park, located just outside Bucharest. You’ll feel like you’ve entered another world, with lakes, forests, and wetlands providing a peaceful escape from the bustle of the city.

If you’d like a panoramic view of Bucharest, climb the stairs of the Patriarchal Cathedral’s bell tower and admire views of the city from above.

In conclusion, Bucharest is a city full of surprises, and if you’re willing to leave the tourist spots behind, you’ll discover hidden gems that go beyond the usual guidebook suggestions. Get ready to fall in love with the city and explore all that this captivating city has to offer!