Bucharest, the vibrant capital of Romania, serves as the gateway to a captivating exploration of the country’s storied past. Set out on a 12-hour journey to uncover the enchanting Peles Castle, the mysterious Bran Castle, and the charming Brasov Old Town. Marvel at the neo-Renaissance architecture, explore the gothic chambers, and wander through the medieval streets, all while enjoying Romania’s rich history and culture. This captivating blend of architectural gems and historical treasures promises an unforgettable experience for any visitor.
Key Points
- This 12-hour tour from Bucharest allows visitors to explore Peles Castle, Bran Castle (known as Dracula’s Castle), and the historic Old Town of Brasov.
- The tour includes guided visits to both castles, with free time to explore Brasov’s medieval architecture, landmarks, and cultural attractions.
- Peles Castle is a stunning neo-Renaissance palace nestled in the Carpathian Mountains, while Bran Castle is a 14th-century fortress linked to the legend of Count Dracula.
- Roundtrip transportation, local guide, and entry tickets are included in the tour, with a flexible cancellation policy and reserve now, pay later option.
- The tour departs from and returns to Universitate in Bucharest, with a starting time of 7:00 AM and a duration of approximately 12 hours.
Tour Overview
This 12-hour tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore two of Romania’s most iconic castles – Peles Castle and Bran Castle (also known as Dracula’s Castle) – as well as the charming Brasov Old Town.
The tour starts and ends in Bucharest, with two different pickup/drop-off locations available. Guided tours are provided at both Peles and Bran Castles, allowing guests to learn about the history and architecture of these remarkable sites.
The tour also includes free time to wander the medieval streets of Brasov. Priced from €25.00 to €12.50 per person, the tour offers a flexible cancellation policy and a reserve now, pay later option.
Looking for more options in Bucharest? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary Details
The tour departs from two starting locations in Universitate, with guests arriving 15 minutes before the 7:00 AM departure time.
At the castles, the tour includes guided tours with free time for exploration.
In Brasov, guests can discover the medieval fortress, old town, and an array of architectural styles including Renaissance, Baroque, and neo-Classic.
The drop-off locations are also at Universitate, with two options available.
The tour includes roundtrip transportation, a local guide, and entry tickets to the castles, which require cash payment in Lei or Euro.
Peles Castle: Architectural Gem of Romania
Nestled in the picturesque Carpathian Mountains, Peles Castle stands as an architectural marvel that captivates visitors from around the world.
Nestled in the picturesque Carpathian Mountains, Peles Castle stands as an architectural marvel that captivates visitors from around the world.
This Neo-Renaissance masterpiece was the summer residence of King Carol I, who commissioned its construction in the late 19th century.
The castle boasts:
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Ornate interiors with over 170 rooms
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Stunning wooden carvings and stained-glass windows
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An armory displaying an impressive collection of medieval weapons
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Beautifully landscaped gardens
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Impressive views of the surrounding mountains
Peles Castle’s blend of German, Italian, and French architectural styles makes it a true gem of Romania, a must-see for any visitor to the region.
Bran Castle: The Legendary Dracula’s Castle
Why does Bran Castle hold such a legendary status? Also known as Dracula’s Castle, this 14th-century fortress is inextricably linked to the infamous Count Dracula.
Perched atop a 200-foot-high rock, the castle’s imposing silhouette exudes an air of mystery and intrigue. Visitors can explore its winding staircases, secret passageways, and gothic chambers, imagining the vampiric tales that have captivated the world.
While the connection to Bram Stoker’s iconic novel is tenuous, the castle’s haunting allure remains undeniable.
Explore the grounds, snap photos of the iconic structure, and learn about the legends that have made Bran Castle a must-see destination.
More Great Tours NearbyExploring Brasov’s Old Town
One step beyond the legendary Bran Castle lies the captivating Brasov Old Town, a medieval gem that beckons visitors to uncover its rich history and architectural wonders.
Explore the well-preserved medieval fortress, marvel at the Renaissance, Baroque, and neo-Classic buildings, and stroll through the charming streets.
Explore the well-preserved medieval fortress, marvel at the Renaissance, Baroque, and neo-Classic buildings, and stroll through the charming streets.
The town’s highlights include:
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The Black Church, a 14th-century Gothic masterpiece
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Council Square, the central gathering place
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Rope Street, the narrowest street in Europe
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Schei District, the historic Romanian neighborhood
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Ecaterina’s Gate, a stunning example of Saxon architecture
This vibrant town offers a glimpse into Romania’s past and a chance to take in its cultural riches.
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Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour package includes roundtrip transfer from Bucharest, transportation by air-conditioned vehicle, a local guide, and entry tickets to both Peles Castle and Bran Castle.
Lunch is also provided. However, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 7, pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, visually impaired, or hearing-impaired individuals.
Small bags are allowed onboard, but oversized luggage incurs a €10 handling fee. Cash is required for castle entry, as no food or drinks are allowed in the vehicle.
Peles Castle is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, with only the exterior viewable on those days.
Important Information for Travelers
Travelers should arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled 7:00 AM departure time.
Travelers must arrive 15 minutes prior to the scheduled 7:00 AM departure.
Peles Castle is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so guests will only be able to view the exterior.
Cash is required to enter the castles, and no food or drinks are allowed on the vehicle.
Only small bags are permitted; larger luggage will incur a €10 handling fee.
The tour isn’t suitable for:
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Children under 7
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Pregnant women
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People with mobility impairments
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Wheelchair users
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Visually or hearing-impaired individuals
Traveler Reviews and Recommendations
What do travelers say about this tour? The tour receives excellent reviews, with a 4.6/5 rating based on over 11,500 reviews.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable and friendly guides, who provide an engaging and informative experience. The highlights of the tour, including visits to Peles Castle, Bran Castle, and Brasov’s historic old town, are consistently mentioned as the tour’s strengths.
Reviewers recommend the tour, citing its value and the opportunity to see some of Romania’s top attractions in a single day.
With free cancellation and a "reserve now, pay later" option, the tour provides flexibility for travelers.
Common Questions
What Is the Minimum Group Size for This Tour?
The tour has no minimum group size. Individuals can book the tour and participate as solo travelers. The price is per person, so the total cost will depend on the number of people in the group.
Do We Have the Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?
The tour doesn’t offer an option to extend the duration. It’s a set 12-hour itinerary that covers Peles Castle, Bran Castle, and Brasov Old Town. There’s no flexibility to prolong the tour beyond the scheduled timeframe.
Are Audio Guides Available at the Castles?
Audio guides are not mentioned in the tour overview. However, guided tours are included at the castles, so visitors may have the option to use audio guides if they’re available on-site. It’s best to check with the tour operator for specific details.
Can Vegetarian/Halal/Kosher Meals Be Provided on Request?
The tour company does not mention providing special meals, so vegetarian, halal, or kosher meals may not be available. Travelers with dietary restrictions should inquire about meal options when booking the tour.
Is There an Option to Customize the Itinerary to Our Preferences?
The tour operator doesn’t offer customized itineraries, but they can accommodate dietary requirements like vegetarian, halal, or kosher meals if requested in advance. Travelers can select from the standard 12-hour itinerary that visits the specified castles and Brasov Old Town.
The Sum Up
This 12-hour tour from Bucharest offers a captivating exploration of Romania’s renowned landmarks. Visitors will marvel at the neo-Renaissance splendor of Peles Castle, uncover the mysteries of the iconic Bran Castle, and enjoy the charming medieval ambiance of Brasov’s Old Town. With guided tours and free time, this journey seamlessly blends history, culture, and stunning scenery, providing an unforgettable experience for travelers.
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