Bran Castle & Rasnov Fortress Day Trip from Brasov

Summary

Brasov legends come alive at Bran Castle and Rasnov’s ancient walls

You’ll start in Brasov with hotel pickup, then walk Rasnov Fortress’ outer walls with a local guide sharing old legends. Explore Bran Castle at your own pace—watch for creaking floors—and maybe try coliva cake in the courtyard. Upgrade for Peles Castle’s ornate rooms if you want more royal history. Expect stories, small surprises, and a few laughs along the way.

What’s the experience like?

"You see that tower? My grandfather used to say it was haunted," our guide Andrei grinned as we stepped out of the van near Rasnov Fortress. The air up there felt sharper than in Brasov, with a bit of pine and something old—damp stone maybe. We couldn’t go inside (the fortress is closed right now), but Andrei led us along the outside walls, pausing to point out faded carvings and tell us about villagers hiding here from invaders centuries ago. A couple of stray dogs followed us, tails wagging. I tried to imagine what it sounded like during an attack—probably not this quiet.

The drive to Bran Castle was only about 20 minutes, but the road wound through villages where women sold jars of honey by the roadside. When the castle finally appeared above the trees—those red turrets are hard to miss—I got why people call it “Dracula’s Castle.” Inside, you’re on your own (new rules), so I wandered narrow hallways with creaky floors and velvet ropes. There’s a weird chill in some rooms, though maybe that’s just my imagination running wild after hearing stories about Vlad the Impaler. The souvenir market outside is loud and colorful; I bought a carved wooden mask from a lady who winked when I tried my broken Romanian.

If you add Peles Castle (we did), be ready for a change of pace—everything is polished wood and stained glass, tucked into deep forest. Our guide explained things before we went in since guides can’t enter anymore (new policy). I still remember the smell inside: beeswax polish and cold air. It’s easy to lose track of time wandering those echoey halls. On the way back to Brasov, someone passed around coliva cake they’d bought at Bran—a funeral dessert, apparently—but sweet and nutty enough that nobody minded.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit Rasnov Fortress and Bran Castle

• Pickup from central Brasov
• Drive 30 minutes to Rasnov Fortress
• Explore fortress exterior and courtyard
• Optional lunch in Rasnov (own expense)
• Drive to Bran Castle
• Enter Bran Castle and tour rooms
• Hear stories about Vlad the Impaler

Day 2 — Optional Peles Castle extension

• Visit Peles Castle (pre-booked option)
• Tour ornate rooms with guide
• Visit neighboring Pelisor Castle

Top questions

How long is the Bran Castle & Rasnov Fortress tour from Brasov?

The standard tour lasts about 4 hours from Brasov; adding Peles Castle extends it by 3–4 hours.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included if you’re staying outside Brasov Old Town.

Can you go inside Rasnov Fortress?

No, currently Rasnov Fortress is closed inside; you can visit the exterior walls and courtyard only.

Do I need to book Peles Castle in advance?

Yes, tickets for Peles Castle must be booked online ahead for a specific time slot.

Is lunch included on this tour?

No lunch is included; you can buy food near Bran Castle or opt for a sit-down meal nearby.

Are entry fees included in the price?

No, entry fees for castles are not included; you pay them separately at each site.

What days are Bran or Peles Castles closed?

Peles and Pelisor Castles are closed Monday and Tuesday; Bran Castle opens at noon on Mondays.

How many people are on this group tour?

This is a small group tour—usually just a few travelers per group for flexibility.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Brasov (outside Old Town), round-trip transport by car or minivan with a professional local guide sharing stories along the way. Entry fees aren’t covered—you’ll pay those as you go—and meals are up to you (try something quick at Bran or sit down nearby). If you add Peles Castle, remember to book tickets online ahead of time for your chosen slot.