Travel Guide to Transylvania, Romania

Ra's Travel Guide to Transylvania

A medieval Saxon village and an UNESCO heritage sight; a complete travel guide to Transylvania.

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Transylvania, a captivating region in Romania, is renowned for its Carpathian landscape, rich history, and the inspiration it provided for Bram Stoker's Dracula through the infamous Vlad the Impaler. This real region offers a wealth of experiences, and I've curated a concise list of top attractions that can be enjoyed within a 3-5 day trip. Read on below for my complete travel guide to Transylvania.

Getting to Transylvania, Romania: Transportation Options and Travel Tips

Transylvania is well-connected, with major cities having their own airports served by numerous airlines. However, direct train or bus routes may be available depending on your departure location. These modes of transportation offer stops at various stations along the way, making it convenient if you're not staying in the city center. From there, you can easily arrange for a taxi or Uber to reach your desired destination.

During my visit to Transylvania, I traveled from Moldova and took a direct bus from the capital. The journey took around 9 hours, with a couple of stops for refreshments and facilities. It's important to note that bus schedules can be subject to delays, so it's advisable to plan accordingly. Tickets for bus travel can be purchased through this website.

Consider using Rome2rio to check the different methods of travel from your location to the different cities in Transylvania and the price.

Where to Stay in Transylvania, Romania?

For optimal convenience, I recommend choosing one of the main cities in close proximity to your preferred attractions. If you plan on exploring Transylvania through a tour group, I suggest staying in Brașov, as it serves as a hub for many tours departing from this city.

During my visit, I stayed in Brașov due to its proximity to Bran Castle and the Halloween party I attended there. Each main city in Transylvania offers a variety of accommodation options, including hotels, Airbnbs, and hostels. For a unique experience, consider booking one of the beautifully restored castles or village houses, though access to these locations may require a car due to their countryside settings.

Guides to Romania

Guide to Celebrating Halloween at Bran Castle

Romanian Souvenirs to Buy in Romania

Getting Around Transylvania, Romania

Car

Renting a car provides flexibility and freedom to explore Transylvania at your own pace. You can plan your own itinerary, make stops at your preferred destinations, and stay as long as you wish. It eliminates the reliance on public transportation and allows access to remote tourist spots that may not be easily reachable otherwise.

Tours

One of the best ways to experience Transylvania is through guided tours. These tours offer convenience and include transportation, historical insights, and visits to major attractions. You can choose from group tours or private tours, with stops at key cities and landmarks along the way.

Taxi

Taxis can be found near major tourist spots, or by calling the local taxi service. To avoid any surprises, make sure to confirm the fare before entering the taxi. Be aware that Transylvania is a large region in Romania and not all taxi companies will drive between cities. As Romania primarily relies on cash, ensure you have cash on hand for taxi payments.

Train

The train is a convenient mode of public transportation for traveling between Transylvania cities. Tickets are affordable, and trains offer direct routes to major destinations. It is advisable to book your tickets in advance as trains can fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons.

What to Do in Transylvania, Romania?

Rupea Fortress

Situated an hour from Brașov, this fortress dates back to 1324 and stands as a testament to Transylvania's tumultuous history.

Fortified Church and Medieval Saxon Village

Explore one of Romania's most famous medieval Saxon villages, renowned for its fortified church and connections to Prince Charles of Wales. Don't miss the opportunity to taste the delicious homemade bread available here.

Transfăgărășan Highway

Embark on a journey along one of the world's most breathtaking roads. Enjoy scenic views, take invigorating hikes, and savor the fresh mountain air. Check out my comprehensive Travel Guide to the Transfăgărășan Highway for an enhanced experience.

Peleș Castle

Admire the neo-Renaissance beauty of this 19th-century castle, showcasing remarkable architectural splendor.

Bran Castle

Visit the iconic Dracula Castle featured in Bram Stoker's novel. Perched on a mountain ridge, this 13th-century castle is a top attraction in Transylvania. In October, it hosts thrilling Halloween parties on Saturdays.

Ladder Canyon Zipline and Hike

Engage in an adventure-filled experience at Piatra Mare Mountain, where you can explore stunning canyons, waterfalls, and enjoy exhilarating zipline options.

Biserica Cetate Kirchenburg Fortified Church

Discover the remains of this church, which holds an annual spring celebration in Transylvania and serves as a favorite spot for history enthusiasts.

Castelul Corvinilor

Step into history at this 15th-century castle, once a residence of the ruling dynasty, and admire its unique symbol, the raven.

Salina Turda

Immerse yourself in a truly unique and healthy experience by visiting this vast salt mine, which features its own lake, a wellness center, and even an amusement park.

Libearty Bear Sanctuary

Witness the largest brown bear sanctuary in the world, providing a safe haven for 75 brown bears. Take a tour, learn about its history, and get up close to these majestic creatures.

Clay Castle of the Valley of the Fairies

Capture memorable photos at this castle constructed from organic materials, reminiscent of Hobbit houses.

Explore UNESCO Saxon Villages

Transylvania encompasses over one-third of Romania, with each city boasting its own history and main attractions. Don't miss Cluj-Napoca, Timișoara, Brașov, Sighișoara, and Sibiu, which are renowned for their cultural significance. Check out my Travel Guides for further insights into these cities in Transylvania.

By following this complete travel guide to Transylvania, you'll embark on an unforgettable journey through Transylvania, discovering its rich history, captivating landscapes, and timeless charm. Enjoy the unique experiences this region has to offer and create lasting memories in the heart of Romania.

Travel Tip

Romania is still primarily a cash-based economy, so make sure you always have Romanian lei available.

My Playlist for Sighișoara, Romania

"Nunta" by Vladuta Lupau

"Fericirea Mea" by Cipri Popescu

"Stinge Lumina, Jos Textila" by Susanu, Blondu De La Timisoara

"House of the Rising Sun" by The Animals

"Watch" by Able

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