Transylvania Phantoms - 8 Days

Upon arriving at Bucharest International Airport, we warmly welcome you and provide a transfer to your hotel in the city for an overnight stay. Enjoy your accommodation in Bucharest.

Breakfast will be served at the hotel. We will depart at 09:00 AM for a city tour of Bucharest. This vibrant capital offers a mix of modern architecture and historical landmarks, such as the impressive Palace of the Parliament. Our adventure begins here in Romania, a land steeped in legend and lore, as we delve into the mysteries of Dracula and connect with the supernatural tales associated with the region.

Lunch will be at your own expense.

In the evening, you will explore Bucharest's Old Centre. Today, its historic narrow streets are bustling with stylish bistros and cafés, but they were once the setting for public trials presided over by Vlad the Impaler, the Wallachian prince who inspired the Dracula legend.

We will conclude the day with dinner at a charming restaurant.

Bucharest - Curtea de Arges - Sibiu. After breakfast, we embark on our Halloween tour of Transylvania, heading towards the city of Sibiu. We will travel along ancient trade routes, once used by armies, caravans, and fugitives, through the scenic Carpathian Mountains. Upon arrival, we will explore the historic city, with its charming square and uncover the secrets held within its walls and the catacombs below.

Weather permitting, we will make a stop at Poenari Castle, built in the 15th century by Vlad the Impaler and often regarded as the real Dracula's castle. Be prepared for a climb, as reaching the castle ruins involves ascending 1,480 steps.

Our journey takes us through the stunning Olt Valley, a pristine and picturesque natural area offering breathtaking views as we pass through its dramatic gorges.

In Sibiu, our city tour includes visits to key heritage sites, such as the Main Square and the Roman Catholic Cathedral. We will also explore the Evangelical Church in Huet Square, pass through the Stairs Passage, and cross the iconic Bridge of Lies. If you have free time, we can provide suggestions for additional activities.

Sibiu - Hanedoara - Cluj Napoca. This morning, we continue our Halloween journey by delving deeper into the intriguing region and castles of Transylvania. Our main highlight today is Corvin Castle, a Gothic masterpiece dating back to 1440. Known as one of the world's most impressive castles, it holds a formidable reputation for its haunting legends. The castle features three prominent areas: the Knight's Hall, the Diet Hall, and the circular stairways. Historically, it served both as a fortress and a prison, reputedly containing a bear pit for prisoners.

In the evening, we arrive in Cluj-Napoca, Transylvania’s largest city and a vibrant student hub. Here, we will explore the Old City Centre on foot, after which you will have the opportunity to discover nearby cafes and bohemian restaurants at your leisure.

Cluj Napoca - Biertan - Sighisora - Bran. Your Halloween adventure in Transylvania continues with a visit to Biertan Village, home to the Biertan Fortified Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site from the Middle Ages. This impressive 15th-century structure, one of Transylvania's largest fortified churches, is notable for its three defensive walls and eight towers – features that have inspired many novelists.

Next, we head to Sighisoara Citadel, renowned as the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the historical figure behind the Dracula legend. Vlad, known as Vlad Dracul after his father, has made Sighisoara one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Eastern Europe.

Explore Casa Dracula, the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, which now houses a pub and restaurant beside a Dominican monastery. You'll also see the iconic Clock Tower – both sites attract those intrigued by the myths of the infamous vampire.

Then, we proceed to Bran, adjacent to the famed Bran Castle.

The highlight of the evening is a Halloween party at Dracula's Castle. After checking in, don your costume for the castle tour and festivities beginning at 09:00 PM.

Bran - Brasov - Bran. Breakfast is included at the hotel. After a late start to recover from the Halloween festivities, we begin our day with a visit to Brasov. This city exudes a medieval charm, highlighted by the imposing Black Church—Southeastern Europe’s largest Gothic cathedral. Initially named Saint Mary’s Church, it was completed in the late 15th century despite various setbacks. Its current name stems from a devastating fire that left its outer walls blackened. Make sure to wander Brasov’s streets for a sight of this iconic monument.

During your free time in Brasov, you can enjoy lunch at a local café at your own expense.

Following your exploration of Brasov, we will proceed to Bran Castle for an in-depth tour. Discover the castle’s intriguing history and its ties to the Halloween celebrations.

Dinner will be served back at the hotel, where you'll also spend the night in Bran.

Bran - Siniaia - Bucharest. Our journey begins in Sinaia, where we'll visit Peles Castle, notable for being the world's first castle fully powered by locally produced electricity. Spanning 3,200 square metres, this architectural marvel boasts 160 rooms and over 30 bathrooms. It was home to one of Europe's finest art collections and holds an impressive array of more than 4,000 European and Oriental weapons.

Our final stop is Snagov Monastery, a historic and religious site perched on an island in Snagov Lake. Though unproven, it is famously considered the resting place of Vlad the Impaler, adding to its mystique as a symbol of Romanian cultural heritage.

After an exciting Romania tour, capped off with a Halloween party at the legendary Bran Castle, your Halloween in Transylvania adventure concludes today. We hope you had a memorable experience, and we look forward to welcoming you back next year!