The perfect Transylvania Vacation blends history, breathtaking scenery and vampire myths and legends into one unforgettable journey. Discover impressive Gothic castles and enduring medieval fortresses as you follow into the footsteps of Count Dracula and find out the legends behind this character.
Transylvania is the perfect destination regardless if you’re a history enthusiast, an adventure seeker or just a fan of dark stories.
If you want to enjoy the complete Transylvanian experience, you should arrive around Halloween and attend special events such as the Great Dracula Ball in Sighisoara Citadel.
Top Attractions and Activities for your Transylvania Vacation
Main Attractions in Transylvania
A well-planned Transylvania Vacation makes all the difference in the world. A great itinerary blends historical landmarks such as medieval fotresses and castles with popular attractions (such as Turda Salt Mine) and modern cities. Keep reading to find out the must-see destinations if you are visiting Transylvania.
Sighisoara Medieval Citadel
Sighisoara is one of Europe’s best preserved (and still inhabited!) medieval citadels and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the colored buildings and the fortified walls. Visit attractions such as the Church on the Hill or the Clock Tower History Museum. Furthermore, Sighisoara Citadel is also the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the ruthless ruler also known as Dracula. If you walk through the cobblestone streets today, you might come across a restaurant named ‘Acasa la Dracula’. This translates to ‘At Dracula’s Home’. The name was chosen because this restaurant is located on the place where Vlad’s birthhouse used to stand.
Brasov
The Medieval Saxon City of Brasov is an impressive city, blending modernism with medieval architecture. You can explore the Council Square and admire the iconic Black Church, an impressive Gothic building with a dark history. It’s walls were blackened after a great fire nearly destroyed the entire city in the late 17th century. While in Brasov, you can also take the cable car up Tampa Mountain and enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the city.
Sibiu
Named the European Capital of Culture in 2007, Sibiu is known for the large number of tourist attractions it houses. You can walk through the Large Square and the Small Square. Discover landmarks such as the Bridge of Lies (make sure you tell the truth while crossing it) or the Council Tower.
Cluj-Napoca
One of the most popular cities in our country, Cluj-Napoca houses a large number of universities, which in turn contributes to a vibrant nightlife. If you go on a walk throughout the city, you can admire a blend of modern buildings and historic monuments. One of the most popular attractions in Cluj is St. Michael’s Church, an impressive Gothic-style cathedral.
Turda Salt Mine
While Turda is a small city, it includes a series of impressive attractions. One of them is the Grave of Michael the Brave, located on a hill overlooking the city. This is where the medieval ruler is said to have met his end, betrayed by his own allies. The most popular attraction in Turda, however, is the Salt Mine. Descend into a unique underground world as you explore the centuries old galleries. The largest chambers include a series of fun past-times such as a large Ferris wheel which you can ride and admire the views. You can also row a boat across an underground lake, play bowling or buy souvenirs.
Dracula-Related Attractions
If your main interest lies in Dracula and the dark legends surrounding the bloody Count, we got you covered as well. Since our itineries are named ‘Vampire Tours’, they naturally include these impressive attractions.
Poenari Fortress
Considered ‘Dracula’s real Castle’, Poenari Fortress used to be Dracula’s retreat. Discover a stronghold believed to be impenetrable due to its location on top of a mountain ridge above Arges River. You need to climb 1400 stairs to reach the top, but the views are completely worth it.
Bran Castle
Also known as Dracula’s Castle, this is arguably the most popular attraction related to the bloody Count. Explore its Gothic corridors and discover the secret passageways built throughout the castle. You can also visit a musem related to the Royal Family since Bran Castle used to serve as the residence of Queen Marie of Romania at the beginning of the 20th century.
Ruins of the Royal Court in Targoviste
In medieval times, Targoviste used to serve as the capital of Wallachia. The Royal Court used to include towers, churces and an impressive palace. Unfortunately, after the capital was moved to Bucharest in the 1650’s, the Court was abandoned. Nowadays, you can only admire the ruins of what used to be the residence of many rulers, including Vlad the Impaler.
Best Tours in Transylvania
Our catalog includes a varied selection of itineraries, designed to account for the requirements of several kinds of travelers. Choose your favorite Transylvania vacation and get ready to discover the land of Dracula!
This itinerary provides the complete Transylvanian experience. Depart from Bucharest and explore impressive cities such as Brasov or Sibiu and unique attractions such as Turda Salt Mine or Peles Palace. Attend three fun Halloween events: the Great Dracula Ball in Transylvania, taking place in Sighisoara Medieval Citadel, a fun Halloween Dinner Party in Arefu and the popular Halloween Party at Dracula’s Castle in Bran.
City Break including The Great Dracula Ball on Halloween
If you are only interested in a night of fun on Halloween, choose a city break including The Great Dracula Ball in Transylvania. Accommodate at a 3* hotel in Sighisoara and then join us at the Palace of the Shire for an unforgettable night. Help yourself at the Open Bar between 20:00 and 01:00 am and attend a special program featuring an impressive ballet performance, a breathtaking magic show and our Ritual of Killing of the Living Dead.
7-Days Vampire Tour in Transylvania
Our 7-Days Vampire itinerary runs throughout the year, between May and October. This is the perfect itinerary if you are traveling outside Halloween season. It includes a series of impressive Dracula related landmarks such as Poenari Fortress, Targoviste Citadel and the iconic Bran Castle. At the same time, you can explore Corvinesti Castle, Peles Palace or the popular Turda Salt Mine and you can attend special events such as the Ritual of Killing of the Living Dead, performed by our team according to old customs and traditions.
If your schedule or your budget prevent you from attending the 8-Days Halloween Tour, you can embark on this 3-days journey departing from Bucharest or Cluj-Napoca. Discover Sighisoara Citadel and Bran Village and have fun at two amazing parties: The Great Dracula Ball in Transylvania and the Halloween Party at Dracula’s Castle.
2-Days Tour with Halloween Party at Bran Castle
This itinerary is designed to satisfy travelers interested in attending the popular Halloween Party at Bran Castle, also known as Dracula Castle. Depart from Bucharest, transfer to Bran Village and enjoy a delicious dinner, followed by a unique night tour of the castle. After exploring the iconic attraction, join us in the tent mounted on the grounds for a fun party lasting till morning.
When to Go on your Transylvania Vacation
Throughout the year, we organize two types of holidays in the land of Dracula. Between May and October, you can attend our Vampire Tours, focusing on historical attractions and places related to Vlad the Impaler. But the best time to visit Transylvania is arguably Halloween season, when you can attend several fun special events.
Vampire Tours: May to October
Between May and October, we organize 3-days or 7-days Vampire Tours. Take advantage of the ideal weather and fully enjoy the outdoor attractions included. Furthermore, at least until the end of September, there are long daylight hours, allowing you more time to admire the impressive landscapes unfolding in front of your eyes.
If you travel to Transylvania during the summer, you won’t have to pack jackets or heavy clothes (but you should have at least a light jacket and a raincoat with you just in case). Explore our country on a short break or attend the full 7-Days experience featuring the most important Dracula related highlights (Poenari Fortress, Bran Castle) as well as many unforgettable historical attractions.
Halloween Tours: Late October
If you are seeking the complete Transylvanian experience, we recommend visiting us on Halloween. The weather is not as friendly as in the summer, but all the special events make up for it. We organize several Halloween tours, all centered around three amazing parties.
– The Great Dracula Ball in Transylvania, taking place in Sighisoara Medieval Citadel. This event is organized by our team and includes a special program featuring a breathtaking magic show, an impressive ballet performance and our Ritual of Killing of the Living Dead, performed according to old customs and traditions
– The Halloween Party at Bran Castle, also know as Dracula’s Castle includes a unique night visit of the castle, only available on Halloween, and a fun after-party taking place in the tent mounted on the grounds
– Halloween Dinner Party in Arefu – only included in our Awarded 8-Days Halloween Tour
Getting Around
Transfers included during Vampire and Halloween Tours
If you book one of our itineraries, we provide transfers to each destination by car, van, microbus or even a full-
size coach depending on the number of travelers. This way, you can enjoy a safe and comfortable journey.
Transfers outside our itineraries
If you want to explore the cities included in our tours on your own terms, you can choose a ridesharing service or a bus / tram (where available). In Bucharest, the best way to move across the city is with the subway. It’s usually crowded, but at least you get to avoid the heavy traffic.
Private Transfers
You might find yourself in a tricky situation: your flight lands in the middle of the night and you need a safe option to travel to your booked hotel. Or you simply prefer to avoid having to book your own transfer. Regardless, we can provide private transportation from the airport to your hotel on the first day of the tour. We can also provide transfers the other way around on the last day. All you have to do is ask and we will prepare the best offer for your group.
Reasons to Book a Tour with Transylvania Live
Choosing the right tour operator can make or break your Transylvania Vacation. With Transylvania Live, you benefit from decades of experience and a passion for creating memorable travel experiences.
• Over 25 Years of Expertise
Since 1995, Transylvania Live has been curating well-crafted itineraries that highlight the region’s top attractions. Our long-standing local connections allow us to offer authentic experiences, from impressive Vampire Itineraries to unforgettable Halloween Tours.
• All-Inclusive Convenience
We arrange accommodation, transfers, and key experiences, saving you the effort of coordinating transportation, tickets, and schedules. Your trip is fully planned, so you can simply enjoy your vacation.
• Best Local Knowledge
Our guides know the stories behind every castle, fortress, and medieval lane. You’ll learn historical insights, local legends, and cultural details that make your journey both fun and meaningful.
Transylvania Vacation – FAQ
Q: Who organizes the best Transylvania vacation?
A: Transylvania Live tour operator, founded in 1995, specialized on Dracula Tours.
Q: Which is the best Transylvania tour?
A: The best Transylvania tour is, without a doubt, the Awarded 8-Days Halloween itinerary, considered a ‘Top 10 Must-Do Adventure’ by Fodor’s Travel Guide and named ‘Tour of the year 2019’ by TourRadar.
Q: Which is the best Halloween Party in Transylvania?
A: According to our travelers, the best Halloween Party in Transylvania is the Great Dracula Ball in Sighisoara Citadel.
Q: Which is the best tour including a visit to Bran Castle?
A: You can visit Bran Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle on our 7-Days Vampire Tour. You can also choose the Awarded 8-Days Halloween itinerary or the 3-Days Halloween tours which include a unique night tour of the castle complemented by the popular Halloween Party at Bran Castle.