Sinaia & Brasov: Peles Castle tour with gondola lift

Summary

Castles, mountain air & old streets: a day from Sinaia to Brasov

Experience Peles Castle’s ornate halls in Sinaia, ride a gondola high into the Carpathians for crisp mountain air, and wander Brasov’s lively old streets with a local guide. Taste traditional food and catch glimpses of daily life you’ll remember long after you leave Romania.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit, I didn’t expect to feel so small standing outside Peles Castle in Sinaia. The place looks like something out of a storybook but with these sharp lines and woodwork that made me want to run my hand along the railing (I did — it was cold and smooth). Our guide, Andrei, knew every odd detail — he pointed out this carved lion on a balcony and told us how Saxon craftsmen left their mark here. I tried to imagine royal family life in those halls, but honestly, the smell of wet leaves from the gardens kept pulling me back outside.

The drive toward the mountains was quiet for a while — just patches of forest flickering past the window. When we got to the gondola lift, I felt that weird mix of excitement and nerves (heights aren’t really my thing). Up at 2100 meters, though, it’s just wind and silence. You can see all these little villages tucked between folds of green. Someone next to me said the air “tastes cleaner” up there; I laughed but then realized they were right. It’s not something you can bottle up or bring home.

Brasov hit differently — more lived-in than postcard-pretty. The old city has this buzz: kids chasing pigeons near the Black Church, a couple arguing softly over pastries (I caught maybe three words), locals slipping through Rope Street single file because it’s barely wider than my backpack. Andrei suggested a spot for lunch where I tried sarmale for the first time — cabbage rolls that are way better than they sound. Li laughed when I tried to say “mulțumesc” properly; probably butchered it. Still think about that view from the square as dusk crept in, lights flickering on one by one.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sinaia and Brasov Highlights

• Visit Peles Castle
• Gondola lift to 2100m in Carpathians
• Explore Brasov Old City and Black Church

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included on this Sinaia & Brasov tour?

Yes, pickup is included as part of your day trip experience.

Do we visit Peles Castle inside or just outside?

You’ll explore both inside and outside Peles Castle during the tour.

How high does the gondola lift go in Sinaia?

The gondola takes you up to an altitude of 2100 meters in the Carpathians.

Is this tour suitable for families with children?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are welcome.

Are meals included during our time in Brasov?

The tour includes time for lunch in Brasov but meals are not specifically included.

Is transportation wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation options on this tour are wheelchair accessible.

Can service animals join this day trip?

Service animals are allowed on this tour.

What’s included

Your day includes bottled water throughout, comfortable transport in an air-conditioned vehicle with pickup provided, plus guidance from a local expert as you explore Peles Castle, ride the gondola lift into the Carpathians, and wander through Brasov’s historic center before returning home.