Bran
Location of the famous Dracula castle, but loved by Romanians because of the incredible natural landscape
Bran – rural experiences at their best
Some travelers say Bran, modernly named Dracula’s Castle, is a tourist trap! Just one of those places where everybody wants to go and take pictures, buy bloody souvenirs and tick the box.
Well, we say, it is a charming 1300’s fortress, in a really romantic location, on top of a rock (and you need to walk up there!), that is worth knowing with or without Dracula. So pick a show on Halloween for the sake of it or a tour on any other day. Feel romantic stepping in one of Queen Mary’s favorite residences and enjoy the local cheeses, hams and spirits of the farmers in the area.
But we’ll also say, that the real highlight of the Bran area is the incredibly beautiful natural scenery, the quaint villages in between impossible green hills, on which, if you like some easy hiking and climb them, you’ll be rewarded with the most amazing views of the mountains you have ever seen. And the food… You have to try the traditional “ciorba” or the simple pork stew with polenta or else you’ll waste your stay in Romania.
So, are you up for building a hay-stack or roasting a pig!?
Bran Castle
Sirnea village, Bran area
Pestera Village, Bran area
Balaban hill, Bran area
Simon village sheep shelter, Bran area
Our Tours
Essential Romania Weekend Tour
If you only have a couple of days to get a taste of Romania, if you plan an extended weekend or you are just finishing a cruise in Bucharest and you want some more, this is the tour for you. We’re quite sure you’ll be back for more!
Transylvania Step by Step Tour
Saxon Transylvania is a slice of medieval rural Europe. You’ll explore this fascinating area, visit the superb UNESCO world heritage fortified churches, the medieval citites of Brasov, Sighisoara and Sibiu, the villages that charmed the royals.
Get Inspired
Viscri, the village Prince Charles made famous
The village of Viscri, or Weisskhirch (in Romanian "white church"), as it was formerly known, is less than two-hour drive from Brasov. The village was included in the UNESCO heritage list in 1999 and features on the world map of traditional villages. The road up there is dotted with plenty of attractions, so if you leave Brasov in the morning, you might only reach Viscri in the afternoon.
Rural life and local crafts in Transylvania
Transylvania offers sights and attractions to suit all tastes, but the authenticity found in the old rural settlements is something everyone loves. Transylvanian villages are places with a special charm, and the landscape of the area recalls memories of ancient times.
Peasants, Merchants and Knights – a Real Life Catan Story
The Saxon history of Transylvania begins unofficially in middle 1100's and officially in 1224 when the King of Hungary allowed the German peasants and merchants from Luxembourg and Flanders area to settle the southern part of the land to protect the Kingdom from invaders ...
Prejmer – UNESCO World Heritage fortified church
Prejmer fortress, the largest fortified church in Romania When they hear the word Brasov, most people think of the famous Black Church. But this is not the only medieval landmark in the area! Just 17 km north-east of Brasov (Kronstadt) you’ll find Prejmer...
What others say: A Transylvania Road Trip by BlondeAtlas
An interesting blog post by BlondeAtlas. Some nice tips and some good words about their experience in Romania. I particularly liked her choice of restaurants, Bistro de l'Arte in Brasov and Kulinarium in Sibiu are also two of our favourite restaurants. Having...
4 days in Saxon Country – Biertan, Richis
On the last day, we focused on visiting two major UNESCO fortified churches - Biertan and Richis. We joined the fantastic guide Peter Suciu who did a great job walking us through the history of the place. Once one of the...