Your Guide to Castle-Hunting in Romania: Where History Meets Mystery

In the south-east corner of Europe, on the shores of the Black Sea, Romania isn’t just the land of Dracula – it’s a place where medieval towns meet ancient forests and centuries-old fortresses rise from misty hills like something out of a fairytale. From Gothic landmarks cloaked in mystery to elegant royal palaces nestled in the Carpathian Mountains, here’s your essential guide to Romania’s most fascinating castles, including how to reach them, what not to miss and where to stay in style.

Romania’s remarkable concentration of castles and fortresses is rooted in its turbulent past, shaped by competing empires and centuries of invasions. Located at the crossroads of Eastern and Western Europe, the regions of Transylvania, Wallachia and Moldavia were often battlegrounds between the Ottomans, Habsburgs and Russians. To protect their territories, local rulers and noble families built castles, citadels and fortified manors – many located in strategic mountain passes. These structures were not only defensive outposts but also symbols of prestige, designed to showcase wealth, status and architectural style. Today, they offer a fascinating window into Romania’s chequered past.

Perched dramatically on a rocky cliff, Bran Castle is Transylvania’s most famous fortress – thanks to its resemblance to Dracula’s Castle in Bram Stoker’s chilling novel. While Vlad the Impaler – the 15th-century prince said to have inspired the Dracula myth – likely never lived here, the Gothic towers, shadowy halls and narrow staircases perfectly capture the eerie vibe. Inside, you'll discover a fascinating collection of medieval furniture and royal artefacts once owned by Romania’s last queen, Marie. Daytime tours offer sweeping mountain views, but for a spine-tingling experience, book a private after-hours visit.

• Bran, near Brașov
• 2.5-3 hours by car from Bucharest, or take the train to Brașov, followed by a bus or taxi

Tucked into the forested slopes of the Carpathian Mountains, Peleș Castle is one of Europe’s most stunning royal residences. Built in the late 19th century for King Carol I, this neo-Renaissance gem dazzles with its fairytale turrets, carved woodwork, stained glass and over 160 opulent rooms. Highlights include the grand marble staircase, the Imperial Suite and a vast armoury showcasing more than 4,000 weapons. Surrounded by manicured gardens and offering sweeping mountain views, the castle is just a short walk from the alpine town of Sinaia and offers an unforgettable journey into Romania’s royal heritage.

• Sinaia, Prahova Valley
• 1.5-2 hours from Bucharest by train or car

Corvin Castle – also known as Hunyadi Castle – is a formidable Gothic masterpiece in the city of Hunedoara. Built in the 15th century on the ruins of a Roman fort, its soaring turrets, dramatic drawbridge and vast courtyard are straight out of a fantasy novel. Explore vaulted chambers like the Knights' Hall, the Mace Tower (built in 1440) and dank dungeons where, according to legend, Vlad the Impaler was once imprisoned. With shadowy stone corridors and faded medieval murals, it’s one of the largest castles in Europe, and arguably the most atmospheric.

• Hunedoara, western Romania
• 6 hours by car from Bucharest or take the train to Deva, followed by a local taxi

High above the Argeș River Valley, on a thickly forested ridge, 13th-century Poenari Castle is remote, rugged and steeped in legend. Unlike the tourist-filled halls of Bran, these dramatic ruins offer a raw, authentic Dracula experience. The castle was a key strategic refuge for Vlad himself, who lived here until his death in 1476. Reaching the summit requires climbing 1,480 steep steps through dense forest, but the panoramic views and eerie atmosphere make it a worthwhile excursion.

• Argeș County
• Around 3 hours by car from Bucharest

Built by Teutonic knights in the 13th century, Râșnov Fortress is a perfectly preserved hilltop citadel complete with thick stone walls, bastions and parapets offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Inside, visitors can explore a maze of ancient homes showcasing medieval life. A highlight is the deep well, hand-dug by Turkish prisoners over 17 years, which allowed the defenders to withstand prolonged attacks. A funicular provides easy access but if you're feeling fit, there's a charming cobbled path leading up to the fortress.

• Râșnov, near Brașov
• Take a train or drive (around 20 minutes) from Brașov

Often called the Versailles of Transylvania, Bánffy Castle is an impressive regal residence with roots stretching back to the 14th century. It was owned for six centuries by the aristocratic Bánffy family and showcases Renaissance, Baroque and Gothic Revival styles. It was used as a military hospital during the Second World War but was damaged by fire and fell into disrepair. Now partially restored, the site has become a vibrant cultural hub, hosting the annual Electric Castle festival, which helps to fund the continuing conservation efforts.

• Bonțida
• 25 km from Cluj-Napoca, or around 30 minutes by car or bus

A medieval stronghold turned royal residence, Făgăraș Fortress is surrounded by a still-intact moat, 3-metre thick stone ramparts and mighty bastions. Thanks to its strong defences, it was never captured by force, but was taken over by the communists in 1948 and served as a political prison. Today, the beautifully preserved fortress houses the Făgăraș County Museum, with displays of Roman artefacts, medieval weapons and traditional folk crafts. Visitors can also explore the chilling dungeon and torture chambers – a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts.

• Făgăraș, halfway between Brașov and Sibiu
• Accessible by train or car (~1.5 hours from either)

To explore Romania’s stunning castles, you can travel easily from both Brașov and Bucharest using a mix of public transport, car hire and guided tours. From Bucharest, trains and buses regularly connect to popular destinations like Sinaia (for Peleș Castle) and Bran (for Bran Castle), with direct services available to Brașov as well.

Brașov serves as a convenient hub for reaching Bran and Râșnov castles by local bus or taxi. Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore more remote sites like Corvin Castle in Hunedoara or the fortified churches in Transylvania at your own pace. Alternatively, many tour companies in both cities offer day trips or multi-day packages that include transportation and guided visits to Romania’s most famous castles.

Many of Romania's castles are in the region of Transylvania, within striking distance of the charming medieval town of Brașov. For a stylish weekend stay, check into Swissôtel Poiana Brasov – the only 5-star hotel in the area, with a spa, fine dining restaurant and Carpathian Mountain views.

You could also use Bucharest as a launchpad for your trip. Overlooking the capital's largest park, just 15 minutes from the airport, the Pullman Bucharest World Trade Center offers a blend of comfort and easy access to major sights and transport links.

From Gothic giants to secret ruins, Romania’s castles tell a story of nobility, power and legend that still echoes through their courtyards and towers. Whether you’re planning a themed road trip or a weekend getaway, you'll be rewarded with incredible architecture, history and breathtaking landscapes. Are you ready to start planning your castle-hopping adventure?