Bran Castle, Peles & Brasov Private Day Tour from Bucharest

Summary

Romania Castles Tour: Dracula’s Bran, Royal Peles & Medieval Brasov

You’ll step inside legendary castles—Bran for its Dracula tales and Peles for royal elegance—then stroll through Brasov’s lively old town surrounded by mountains. This tour packs Romania’s must-sees into one easy day with local stories along the way.

What’s the experience like?

The morning air felt crisp as we left Bucharest behind, our driver weaving through the Carpathian foothills while the sun crept over pine forests. First stop: Bran Castle. I’d seen it in photos—those sharp towers and stone walls—but up close, it’s got this odd mix of fairy tale and fortress. Our guide, Andrei, pointed out the narrow staircases and secret passageways that Bram Stoker never actually visited (he grinned at that). The place smells faintly of old wood and wax. You’ll hear the floorboards creak under your feet as you wander through rooms filled with medieval armor and faded portraits. Outside, vendors sell hot kürtőskalács—try one if you’re hungry.

Peles Castle was next—a total contrast. It sits tucked into a forest near Sinaia, looking almost like something out of a storybook but with a real royal history. The gardens were still damp from last night’s rain when we arrived. Inside, sunlight filters through stained glass onto carved wood panels and velvet chairs. Our guide explained how Romania’s royal family used this as their summer home; apparently, even Charlie Chaplin once visited. I lost track of time staring at the intricate ceilings in the music room.

Brasov came after lunch—a city ringed by mountains where church bells echo off pastel buildings. We wandered through Council Square while locals sipped coffee outside Café de la Arte. There’s a buzz here that feels different from Bucharest—slower maybe, but lively all the same. If you look up, you’ll spot Tampa Mountain looming above the rooftops; there’s even a nature reserve right inside city limits (our guide swears he saw deer there last spring). Walking these cobbled streets with snow just starting to fall made me wish I could stay longer.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Bran Castle, Peles Castle & Brasov Tour

• Visit Bran Castle (Dracula's Castle)
• Visit Peles Castle (Castelul Peles)
• Explore Brasov Historical Center

Top questions

How long does this private tour take?

The full day usually runs about 12 hours including travel time between stops.

Is there WiFi or air conditioning in the vehicle?

Yes, you’ll have WiFi on board and an air-conditioned ride for comfort throughout the journey.

Are infant seats or service animals allowed?

Specialized infant seats are available if requested in advance, and service animals are welcome too.

Can people with limited mobility join?

The tour is suitable for most fitness levels; let us know if you need extra assistance so we can help plan accordingly.

What’s included

Your private tour includes WiFi on board, gasoline, an air-conditioned vehicle for comfort, parking fees covered, plus specialized infant seats if needed. Service animals are welcome too—just let us know ahead of time.