Transylvania Escape - from Bucharest - 3 days w. accommodation

Morning pick up from Bucharest, at 9 am. Our first stop will be Peles Castle, located in the picturesque mountain resort of Sinaia. This stunning castle was built in the late 19th century as a summer residence for the Romanian royal family and is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved castles in Europe. You will have a guided tour of the castle’s opulent rooms, including the grand reception hall, the royal bedrooms, and the exquisite art and sculpture galleries. You will also have the opportunity to explore the castle’s extensive grounds and gardens, which offer stunning views of the surrounding Carpathian Mountains.

After visiting Peles Castle I’ll take you to an unforgettable journey through history at Bran Castle, famously known as Dracula's Castle. This immersive tour will transport you to the world of Vlad the Impaler, the enigmatic medieval ruler. As we explore the castle's imposing fortress, you'll uncover fascinating facts and legends surrounding its rich history. Discover the eerie chambers, unravel the secrets hidden within its labyrinthine passages, and immerse yourself in the captivating tales of Vlad the Impaler. After our exploration, we'll indulge in a delectable lunch at a traditional restaurant, savoring the flavors of Romania while reflecting on the intriguing stories we've uncovered.

After we get lunch at my family restaurant La Promenada in Rasnov, I'll take you to visit Rasnov Fortress. While the fortress itself is CLOSED FOR RESTORATION, we will explore the fortress garden. Delve into the rich heritage of the region as we uncover fascinating facts about the Transylvanian Saxons and their contributions to the local culture. Learn fascinating facts about the fortress's strategic importance from tales of medieval sieges to the resilient spirit of the people. As your experienced tour guide, with five years of expertise at this majestic fortress (I worked there between 2011-2016), rest assured that you will receive unparalleled insights and a comprehensive understanding of this magnificent fortress. Although we explore just the garden of Rasnov Fortress, we have the flexibility to tailor the tour to your preferences, and we can choose a nearby adventure to another captivating sight, ensuring your day is brimming with unforgettable experiences.

After we finish breakfast we embark on a fascinating day tour of some of the most beautiful places in Transylvania. The first stop is at Viscri a charming village in Transylvania, Romania, that offers a glimpse into the past. You can explore the Fortified Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 13th century and houses a museum of local history and culture. You can also stroll through the village and admire the traditional houses, some of which belong to the descendants of the Saxons who settled here centuries ago. One of these houses is owned by King Charles III of England, who fell in love with Viscri and bought a property here. You can visit his house and see how he decorated it with local crafts. Viscri is a perfect destination for anyone who wants to experience the authentic rural life of Transylvania and enjoy its natural beauty and hospitality. The next stop is Sighisoara the fortified town.

Step into a fairy tale as you explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sighisoara Citadel, a remarkably preserved medieval fortress. Wander through narrow cobblestone streets, filled with colorful buildings and charming squares. Marvel at the iconic Clock Tower, climb its ancient stairs, and enjoy panoramic views of the city. With its rich heritage and enchanting atmosphere, Sighisoara is a destination for anyone who loves history, culture, and architecture. From here we'll drive for 30 minutes to Biertan Fortified Church.

Biertan Fortified Church – Step into a medieval masterpiece! This UNESCO-listed 16th-century Saxon church wows with triple defensive walls, an intricate wooden altar, and the famous "Divorce Room" where quarreling couples were locked inside to reconcile. Perched on a hilltop, it offers breathtaking views of vineyards and Transylvania's countryside. One of the region's best-preserved fortified churches, Biertan blends history, legend and architectural wonder in a peaceful village setting. A must-see for history buffs and photographers!

Libearty Bear Sanctuary is the largest brown bear sanctuary in Europe and the most ethical in the world. It is located in Zarnesti, near Brasov, and covers an area of 69 hectares of forest. The sanctuary is home to over 130 bears that were rescued from abusive captivity and now enjoy a natural and peaceful environment. This place is a must-see for animal lovers and nature enthusiasts.

Prejmer Fortified Church is a stunning example of medieval architecture and defense in Transylvania, Romania. It was built by the Teutonic Knights in the 13th century and later expanded by the Saxons. The church has a unique Greek cross plan and a triptych altarpiece from the 15th century. The fortification has four-meter thick walls and 270 rooms that served as shelter and storage for the villagers in case of attack. Prejmer Fortified Church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-see for history buffs and culture lovers.

Our last visit for the day is to Brasov Historical Centre, where we'll have to taste some Saxon cuisine. This place is a lively and charming area that surrounds the Council Square (Piața Sfatului), where weekly markets have been held since 1364. You can admire the colorful buildings, visit the Black Church, the First Romanian School, and St. Nicolas Orthodox Church, and then take the cable car to Mt. Tampa for a panoramic view of the city. After this, we'll drive back to Bucharest arriving around 7 pm.

The Black Church is a Gothic-style cathedral in Brasov, Romania, built by the local Transylvanian Saxon community in medieval times. It is the largest and one of the most important Lutheran churches in the region. It got its name after a fire in 1689 that blackened its walls. The church features a remarkable mechanical organ, a collection of Oriental carpets, and a mural painting of the Virgin Mary. It is open to visitors and hosts regular concerts and events.

The First Romanian School is a museum and a historical monument located in the Șcheii district of Brasov. It was founded in 1495 as the first school where the Romanian language was used for teaching (in 1583). The school played an important role in the cultural and religious development of the Romanian people in Transylvania. It preserves a valuable collection of old books, manuscripts, and printing presses, as well as the first Romanian Bible and the first school magazine.

The Rope Street (Strada Sforii) is a medieval cobbled street in Brasov, Romania, that is one of the narrowest streets in Europe. It was built in the 15th century as a shortcut for firefighters between two main streets. It measures 80 meters long and varies in width from 111 to 135 centimeters. It is a popular tourist attraction and a quirky landmark of the city.