Transylvania: Brown Bear Sanctuary, Dracula’s Castle & Brasov Day Trip

Summary

Brown bears roaming near zarnesti then gothic towers at bran before old town brasov’s cobbles

You’ll watch rescued brown bears roam free near Zarnesti, climb secretive stairways at Bran Castle, and get lost among Brașov’s medieval streets—all with a local guide who knows every story behind each stop. Expect real moments: pine-scented air, laughter over mispronounced Romanian words, maybe even a quiet pause that stays with you long after.

What’s the experience like?

We rolled out of Bucharest just after sunrise, still half-asleep, coffee sloshing in hand. The drive to Zarnesti felt like watching the country wake up—mist curling off fields, a shepherd waving as we passed. At the LiBEARty Brown Bear Sanctuary, our guide Ana kept her voice low so we wouldn’t spook the bears (she said they’re used to people but still shy). I didn’t expect how quiet it would be—just birds and the crunch of leaves. There was this moment when a huge brown bear ambled right past us, nose twitching. You could smell pine needles and something earthy—maybe the bears themselves? I’m not sure. Ana told us about their rescue stories; some had spent years in cages before this place. That stuck with me.

After that, Bran Castle looked almost unreal against the hills—like someone painted it there on purpose. Tour buses everywhere but inside it felt surprisingly intimate in spots, all creaky floors and narrow stone stairs. Our guide pointed out Queen Maria’s old bedroom (the wallpaper was wild), then everyone wanted a photo by the “Dracula” sign. I tried to pronounce Bran correctly—“Brahn,” not “Bran”—and Li laughed at my accent. The castle windows framed these dramatic clouds rolling over Transylvania. It made me think about all those legends; you can see why people make up stories here.

Brașov was our last stop—a proper city but with this cozy mountain-town vibe. We wandered through the old center, past pastel houses and street musicians playing accordion (one kid couldn’t have been older than ten). The Black Church is massive and kind of intimidating up close; inside it smells like cold stone and candle wax. I got lost for a second on Rope Street—it’s so narrow you have to turn sideways if someone else comes through. By then my feet hurt but I didn’t really care; sitting on a bench under chestnut trees felt like exactly where I wanted to be.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit bears, castle, and Brasov city

• See brown bears at LiBEARty Sanctuary
• Visit Bran Castle, Dracula's castle
• Explore Brasov city center and Black Church
• Admire Brasov from Black and White Towers

Top questions

How long does this day trip from Bucharest to Transylvania take?

The tour lasts one full day, covering Zarnesti Bear Sanctuary, Bran Castle, and Brasov before returning to Bucharest.

Is pickup included for this tour?

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

Are entry fees for Bran Castle and the bear sanctuary covered?

The inclusions mention an English-speaking guide, air-conditioned vehicle, and parking fees; entry fees are not specifically listed.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

No lunch is mentioned as part of the inclusions for this tour.

Can infants join this trip?

Yes, infants can join but must sit on an adult's lap; specialized infant seats are available if needed.

How physically demanding is this tour?

The tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels according to the provided information.

What languages does the guide speak?

An English-speaking guide is included for this tour.

What cities or attractions are visited during this day trip?

You’ll visit Zarnesti Brown Bear Sanctuary, Bran Castle (Dracula's Castle), and Brasov including its Black Church.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup with an English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned vehicle plus parking fees throughout your journey from Bucharest to Zarnesti’s bear sanctuary, Bran Castle in Transylvania, and historic Brasov before heading back in comfort at day’s end.