Ah, Romania! Its landscapes, its food, its rich history, but above all… its famous Count Dracula. Admittedly, we’re exaggerating the cliché a little, but it would be a shame to pass through Bucharest without really taking the time to learn about this history and, why not, visit the castle of the most famous of all vampires?
Planning a trip to Bucharest? If the story of Count Dracula and a visit to his castle appeal to you, you’ve come to the right place.
Let’s go, we’re off!
The story of Count Dracula
Count Dracula is a fictional character popularized in 1897 by writer Bram Stoker. Dracula is said to be a vampire living in a castle in Transylvania.
Like all vampires, he feeds on the blood of the living to survive… But Romania is no longer enough for him. In his novel, Stoker takes the Count on a journey to London to expand his empire of terror.
It’s a story based on an urban legend, of course, but one that’s captivating the masses!
Discover Count Dracula's castle
Dracula’s castle can be visited! In fact, if you’re in Bucharest for a week or two, you can opt for a day trip to Bran. It takes between 2 and 3 hours to get there.
You’ll be greeted by the magnificent Transylvanian mountains and the well-kept ruins of this ancient citadel, once inhabited by a certain Vlad Draculae, known as he Impaler. He is said to have inspired Bram Stoker!
On this tour, you’ll learn more about the history of Dracula and “The Impaler”, as well as the role of Bran Castle in his time. At the time, it served as a strategic border between two regions: Transylvania and Wallachia. A very important place.
How long does it take to visit Dracula's hat from Bucharest?
Whichever option you choose here, the tour lasts all day! Early in the morning, a bus will pick you up at the very gates of your Bucharest hotel. You’ll then head for Peleș, where you’ll discover the first castle of your day. This is the former residence of the Romanian royal family.
A symbolic and magnificent place indeed. You’ll appreciate the old furniture and tapestries, the sumptuous paintings and, of course, the collection of weapons dating from the 15th to the 19th century. Then it’s on to Bran and Dracula’s castle. The last stop on the tour is the town of Brașov.
Here, you’ll be amazed by the beauty of the old buildings blending Baroque, Renaissance and Neoclassical styles. You can also stroll around the Brașov fortress and discover the Catherine Gate and the Schei Gate. All in all, you’ll agree that it’s a busy holiday.
Where are Bran and Castle Dracula?
The tour lasts all day. As you can imagine, you’ll need to spend some time on the road. From Bucharest, it will take around 2 hours to get to Peleș (let’s say, 140km).
It will then take around 40km to reach Bran and its fortress. Then add another 30km or so to reach Brașov.
How much does it cost to visit Dracula Castle from Bucharest?
If you opt for the Treepeo option, in collaboration with GetYourGuide, you’ll be entitled to preferential rates. A day trip from Bucharest to Bran and Dracula Castle costs between 35 and 40 euros / dollars.
Included in the tour:
- Transfers from your hotel to Peleș, Bran and Brașov.
- Return transfers
- Tour guide
- Headphones
Not included, however, are entrance fees (which are quite low, around ten euros in total) and lunch.
How do I book a visit to Castle Dracula?
Are you in Bucharest or arriving soon? Would you like to organize your stay and make a little room to discover Count Dracula’s famous castle? Just take advantage of our special offers.
After registering with our partner GetYourGuide, all you have to do is pay the indicated amount. What happens next? Confirmation by e-mail, your tickets and off you go – on D-Day!
Rest assured, booking does not commit you to anything. You can cancel your Bran tour, free of charge, up to 24 hours before departure. After that, however, it will be a little too late.
A few tips before you leave
The first things not to forget, are your camera and food. Take a cold picnic-type meal that you can eat “quickly“. You can buy food on the spot, but it will probably cost a little more.
You’ll also need to be patient, as the journey from Bucharest to Dracula Castle can be quite long, not least because of the mountain passes. But once you’re there, the wait will be rewarded with a truly exceptional experience!