Transylvania Express: On the road in the land of Count Dracula

28 October 20265 days, 4 nightsoperated by

A trip through Transylvania, from Bucharest to the castles of Peleș and Bran (yes, Dracula’s castle!), the Bear Sanctuary, and the Turda Salt Mine. And there’s so much more… but we don’t want to spoil the surprise!

What this trip feels like

  • Culture
  • History
  • Nature
  • Party
  • Relax

Itinerary

Route: BrasovSibiu

  1. 1Day 1Bucharest
    • Welcome to Bucharest!

      Flights to/from the destination are not included in the package, so you have the flexibility to choose a flight that suits you.

      We kick things off in Romania’s lively capital! After arriving , we’ll dive into the local vibe - maybe a visit to the colossal Parliament building or a stroll through a buzzing market for a taste of local street food.

      In the evening, we head to the historic Lipscani district for our first dinner together, complete with traditional Romanian dishes and a splash of folk dancing to set the mood.

      • A high-angle view of a large, classical-style palace surrounded by green lawns and the wider cityscape.
  2. 2Day 2On the trail of Count DraculaOvernight: Brasov
    • The Castles of Transylvania

      Our road trip begins… we pick up our rental cars and drive north to the first stop on our adventure: Peleș Castle , a majestic royal residence in neo-Renaissance style and considered one of the most beautiful castles in Europe. The castle is located in a secluded area at the foot of the Bucegi Mountains surrounded by high mountains and lush vegetation.

      We continue our journey to one of the most iconic places in Transylvania, Bran Castle , better known as Dracula's Castle - the fictional setting of Bram Stoker's 1897 Dracula novel.

    • Brasov and its vampire legends

      Our long day ends in Brasov , a picturesque city with its well-preserved old town, the spectacular Black Church and the majestic Fortress on Tampa Mountain, accessible by cable car, where you can admire the panoramic view of the city.

      It's been a long day, but we still have enough energy for nightlife! Here, apparently, it's not difficult to meet vampires... so what better location than Brasov to participate in a Halloween Party? Remember to keep the garlic handy ;)

      • A medieval-style castle with red-tiled roofs perched on a rocky cliff, surrounded by a dense forest with autumn colors.
  3. 3Day 3Medieval villages and salt minesOvernight: Sibiu
    • Viscri and Sighisoara

      Let's start the day with a visit to the "Libearty" Bear Sanctuary, a must-visit destination as the largest European brown bear rescue park. Here, over 130 bears have been saved from cruelty and unethical treatment.

      We continue our journey to the Saxon village of Viscri to visit the fortified church and then to the medieval town of Sighișoara , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its cobbled streets and colorful houses. A visit to the Clock Tower and the birthplace of Count Dracula is a must! The house is now a museum that tells the story of the historical figure and legend of Vlad III, Prince of Wallachia.

    • The natural spectacle of Salina Turda

      After a lunch break, we get back in our cars to reach a natural spectacle, the Salina Turda, a salt mine transformed into an underground mining park at a depth of 120 meters!

      Salina Turda is a unique place that offers a combination of history, nature and recreational attractions. In fact, in the Spa Hall there is a saltwater lake where you can rent rowboats to sail on the lake. In the Dolomite Hall instead there are huge dolomite rocks that create a surreal environment.

      • A narrow cobblestone street winds between brightly colored historic buildings under a clear sky.
  4. 4Day 4In the heart of green Transylvania
    • Sibiu, the pearl of Transylvania

      Our last day could only be dedicated to Sibiu , probably the most fascinating city in Transylvania. We'll spend the whole morning visiting its historical centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, from the Great Square ( Piata Mare) crowded with people and all kinds of places, to the Brukenthal Museum, which houses an exceptional art collection, up to the Bridge of Lies (Podul Minciunilor), a covered bridge with an interesting history.

      In its medieval centre with open squares, medieval walls, towers and centuries-old churches you can breathe the history and the centuries-old tradition of this region. This city offers a wide choice of restaurants where you can taste the typical dishes of Transylvania, such as Sarmale, cabbage rolls filled with meat and rice, seasoned with spices and often accompanied by polenta. Perfect for refuelling our bodies before getting back on the road

    • Transfăgărășan, a legendary road

      After lunch, we set off again towards the capital, Bucharest, but if we have some time left, we could stop to take some pictures of one of the most beautiful panoramic roads in the world, Transfăgărășan! Yes, the name is unpronounceable, but the view of its hairpin bends at over 2,000 meters above sea level is really worth it! Check out the pictures to believe it!

      *from 1st November this road is closed to vehicles until May due to weather issues. The road can be visited all year round via a cable car that takes you to the highest point, Lacul Balea. After the nature and medieval history, we return to Bucharest. If we have enough energy, Bucharest's nightlife offers many options for us to enjoy our final night together.

      • A winding road with cars travels through a lush green mountain valley under a blue sky with some clouds.
  5. 5Day 5Goodbye Transylvania!
    • Bucharest and its spas

      For those who have a late return flight (yes, that's a recommendation if you can!), we can continue exploring Bucharest or head to a spot near the airport where one of the largest thermal complexes in Europe is located.

      Therme Bucharest has numerous thermal pools, both indoor and outdoor, with hot thermal waters from natural springs as well as a wide selection of saunas, both traditional and steam, where we can relax after many hours of driving.

      • A high-angle view of many people swimming in a large indoor pool surrounded by tall, green palm trees and tropical plants.

What's included

  • 4 nights in a double/triple room with private bathroom and breakfast

  • Car rental from day 2 to day 5

  • Entrance to Dracula's Castle on day 2

  • Entrance to Turda Salt Mine on day 3

  • Travel group leader services

  • Move or modify your trip for free up to 31 days before departure

Optional extras

  • Medical and baggage insurance - (coverage limits by destination country/region - €10,000 Italy, €20,000 Europe, €30,000 World, €50,000 USA/Canada)

What's not included

  • Roundtrip flight to/from destination
  • Meals and drinks unless indicated

  • Gas/petrol, parking, toll fees 

  • Extra Activities: Spa on Day 5

  • City tax

  • All the souvenirs you may want to buy and squeeze into your backpack :)

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  • Anything not mentioned in the "What's included" section

Good to know

  • Some stages are self-driven, so be comfortable driving abroad.

Please see below extra optional activities that you can experience during your trip. Your Group Leader will be happy to assist with organizing these activities for the group. Availability may vary depending on location and group preferences.

Please note these activities are provided by third party suppliers and liability rests exclusively with these third party suppliers.