Private Dracula Grave & Ceaușescu Mansion Tour in Bucharest

Summary

Bucharest Private Tour: Dracula’s Tomb, Village Museum & Revolution Square

You’ll get to see real Romanian life—from village traditions at the open-air museum to hidden stories inside Ceaușescu’s mansion and the legendary Dracula tomb at Snagov Monastery. This private tour lets you explore Bucharest with a local guide who knows all the small details—and you can tweak your stops along the way.

What’s the experience like?

The morning air in Bucharest always feels a bit crisp, even in late spring. We kicked off our day at the National Village Museum—honestly, it’s like stepping into a patchwork of Romanian countryside right in the city. Our guide, Andrei, pointed out the creaky wooden gates and thatched roofs from Maramureș. You could smell fresh cut grass and old timber as we wandered between tiny houses. There’s this one windmill by the lake—locals say it’s been standing since before their grandparents were born. It’s easy to lose track of time here; I caught myself listening to birds more than Andrei at one point.

Next up: Snagov Monastery. The drive out of town took about 40 minutes—enough time for Andrei to share some wild stories about Vlad the Impaler (yep, “Dracula”). The monastery sits on an island, so you cross this narrow bridge where fishermen sometimes wave at you. Inside, it’s quiet except for your footsteps echoing off stone floors. The supposed tomb of Dracula is there—candles flicker and the air smells faintly of incense and old books. It’s a little eerie but honestly pretty peaceful.

Back in Bucharest, we stopped at Ceaușescu Mansion—the “Spring Palace.” The place is all velvet curtains and gold accents; you can almost picture Nicolae and Elena Ceaușescu hosting their secretive parties here. Our guide knew every detail: which room was Zoia’s favorite, where they hid their art collections. Even the garden felt like it had secrets tucked away under rose bushes.

Calea Victoriei was buzzing as usual—trams rattling past old Orthodox churches and music drifting from a record shop near Revolution Square. We walked past fancy shops and tiny tea houses; there’s even a casino tucked behind an old façade if you look close enough. At Revolution Square itself, Andrei paused to show us the balcony where Ceausescu tried to calm the crowds back in ’89 before fleeing by helicopter. It hits different when you’re standing right there—history feels close enough to touch.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Bucharest City Highlights

• Visit National Village Museum
• Explore Dracula's Tomb at Snagov Monastery
• Tour Ceaușescu Mansion
• Walk along Calea Victoriei (Victory Avenue)
• See Revolution Square and Senate Palace

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?

Yes, most stops are accessible and we can adjust the pace or route if needed—just let us know your preferences ahead of time.

How long does it take to reach Snagov Monastery?

It takes about 40 minutes by car from central Bucharest, depending on traffic.

Can I bring my service animal?

Absolutely! Service animals are welcome throughout the tour.

Are there any souvenir shops during the tour?

Yes, you'll find gift shops along Calea Victoriei and at some museum stops if you'd like to pick something up.

What’s included

Your own private car (or minibus) just for your group; an English-speaking licensed guide/driver with you all day; all car costs covered (fuel, parking, tolls); plus flexibility—you can change up your itinerary even after starting out together.