3 Castles Tour From Bucharest: Peles, "Wednesday" & Dracula

If you’re after a day packed with fairy-tale castles, cinematic filming locations, and legendary tales, the 3 Castles Tour from Bucharest delivers just that. This organized day trip combines comfort, history, and a touch of mystery, making it ideal for travelers eager to cover multiple highlights without the hassle of planning.

We particularly appreciate the expert guidance, the scenic drive through the Carpathians, and the chance to see iconic sites like Peles Castle, the filming location for Netflix’s “Wednesday” at Cantacuzino Castle, and the legendary Bran Castle. At the same time, a potential consideration is the duration—around 12 hours—which could feel long for some, especially if you’re not a fan of bus trips. This tour suits those who enjoy history, scenic landscapes, and a bit of storytelling woven into their travel experience.

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Key Points

All-in-one day trip efficiently covers three iconic castles in Romania.
Comfortable transportation with scenic views through the Carpathian Mountains.
Guided experience with local insights, legends, and helpful ticket assistance.
Flexible ticketing options and easy pickup/drop-off at central Bucharest.
Ideal for history lovers and fans of cinematic filming locations.
Long day—be prepared for about 12 hours of travel and sightseeing.

This tour is designed to maximize your time and experience, taking you from bustling Bucharest into the scenic heart of Romania’s legendary castles. Here’s how your day unfolds, along with insights on what makes each stop noteworthy.

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Morning Departure from Bucharest

The adventure begins at Bulevardul Regina Elisabeta 8 in central Bucharest, where you’ll meet your guide and hop aboard a modern, air-conditioned coach or minibus. The drive through the Prahoava Valley offers an immediate taste of Romania’s picturesque landscapes—rolling hills, lush forests, and mountain vistas that set the perfect scene before the castle visits.

Traveling comfortably, you’ll get the chance to relax and chat with your guide, who is tasked with making the day both informative and enjoyable. Expect a scenic ride with plenty of photo stops along the way, especially as you approach Sinaia, the mountain resort town and home to Peles Castle.

Looking for more options in Bucharest? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Peles Castle: A Fairy Tale Comes to Life

Your first stop is Peles Castle, the former summer residence of Romania’s first king, Carol I. The castle’s Neo-Renaissance architecture, with intricate turrets and balconies, is genuinely striking. Inside, the lavish interiors, filled with ornate woodwork, stained glass, and historical artifacts, showcase the luxurious lifestyle of Romania’s royalty.

Note: On Mondays and Tuesdays, the interior is closed, and only exterior views and gardens are accessible. This is an important detail if you’re visiting at the start of the week, but even then, the exterior is worth a good look.

One of the highlights here is the guided assistance with tickets, ensuring you get your slots without waiting in line—a significant time saver given how popular Peles is.

We loved the way Viktoriya’s review captures the experience: her guide, Tibi, made the trip memorable by choosing routes to avoid traffic jams and sharing stories about the castle and the cross on the mountain top. His local knowledge added a personal touch that elevated the visit beyond just sightseeing.

Cantacuzino Castle: The Filming Star of “Wednesday”

Next, the tour takes you to Cantacuzino Castle, an architectural gem built in the Belle Epoque style. But what really makes this stop exciting for many visitors is its recent fame—it’s the filming location for Netflix’s “Wednesday”, portraying Nevermore Academy. For fans of the series, this is a fun, recognizable spot with stunning panoramic views and beautifully maintained gardens.

Your guide will share the history of the castle and how it was transformed into a filming site, adding that extra layer of interest for those familiar with the series. The castle’s blend of history and pop culture makes it a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate Romania’s architectural diversity.

Bran Castle: The Iconic “Dracula’s Castle”

The highlight for many is Bran Castle, perched dramatically on a hilltop with sweeping mountain views. This fortress is often called “Dracula’s Castle,” thanks to Bram Stoker’s novel, but its real history is equally fascinating.

You’ll explore its narrow staircases, medieval rooms, and towers, hearing stories of Vlad the Impaler—whose brutal history inspired the legend of Count Dracula. The castle’s authenticity, combined with its legendary aura, makes it a must-see. After touring, you can browse the souvenir stalls and take in the panoramic views that really emphasize its strategic importance.

A reviewer, Sophie, noted how the guide Christian made the experience engaging and patient, especially as she enjoyed the nearby shops and the local atmosphere. The driver Alex was attentive, ensuring a smooth journey throughout the day.

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Return to Bucharest

After a fulfilling day full of castles, legends, and scenic landscapes, you’ll relax on the scenic drive back to Bucharest. The journey wraps up at Bulevardul Regina Elisabeta 8, with plenty of time to reflect on the day’s highlights.

This tour offers a well-rounded experience—covering Romania’s royal, cinematic, and medieval highlights—all in one day. The organized transportation removes the stress of driving, and the guided commentary enriches your understanding of the sites. For around $28, the value is solid, especially considering the hassle-free ticket assistance and scenic drive.

However, the long day may not suit everyone—expect roughly 12 hours of travel and sightseeing, with some parts being physically demanding (walking through castles and uneven surfaces). It’s ideal for travelers who want to see multiple sites without fuss and enjoy stories from knowledgeable guides.

If you are a fan of fairy-tale castles, legendary stories, and scenic mountain views, this trip offers a fantastic snapshot of Romania’s most famous sites. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate guided tours, as your guide’s insights and local knowledge add a lot to the experience. The combination of cinematic filming locations and medieval castles makes it engaging for both history buffs and pop culture enthusiasts.

The tour’s value lies in its convenience—covering three major castles in one day—paired with the comfort of modern transportation and expert guidance. While the length might be a challenge for some, the experience is enriching and filled with stunning sights and stories that stay with you long after the day ends.

This day trip presents a practical, fun, and memorable way to explore Romania’s legendary castles, making it a worthwhile addition to any Romania itinerary.

Are entrance tickets included in the tour price?
No, entrance tickets are not included. Your guide will help you purchase tickets on the day of the tour to secure your preferred time slots and avoid long lines.

What happens if Peles Castle is closed on certain days?
On Mondays and Tuesdays, only the exterior and gardens of Peles Castle can be visited. If your tour falls on these days, interior access is skipped, but you’ll still enjoy the stunning exterior and landscape views.

How long does the tour last?
The planned duration is approximately 12 hours, but it might take longer depending on traffic and the time spent at each site.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Bulevardul Regina Elisabeta 8 in central Bucharest and concludes back at the same spot in the evening.

What is included in the tour?
You get round-trip transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned coach, a professional English-speaking guide, scenic drive through the Carpathians, and visits to all three castles. Entrance tickets are extra.

Is food or drinks included?
No, the tour price does not cover meals or beverages. You might find opportunities to buy snacks during your stops.

Can I book this tour with flexible payment options?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
Yes, it can be enjoyed by families, but keep in mind the long day and walking involved. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Are guides available in languages other than English?
This tour offers guides in English, Italian, and Spanish, providing options for different language speakers.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes are essential, along with some water, and perhaps a camera to capture the stunning views and castles.

This tour offers a well-rounded and engaging way to see Romania’s most beloved castles, packed with fascinating stories and breathtaking sights—perfect for anyone eager to explore Romania’s legendary past and cinematic fame in one memorable day.