Vampire in Transylvania
Dracula tour

Highlights

Dracula’s Castle in Transylvania - built in accordance to Bram Stoker’s imagination, on Borgo Pass where the Irish writer placed the castle of Count Dracula,accommodation, candle lit dinner and a camp fire with all the right stories.

Ritual Killing of the Living Dead* - Help a haunted spirit to gain his peace - attend the ritual of killing a strigoi.  Evening sitting afterwards to celebrate the victory or recover from defeat. learn more

*This event requires at least 4 travelers to take place 

Sighisoara Medieval Citadel - the best preserved and still inhabited medieval citadel in Europe with a UNESCO World Heritage status, Vlad the Impaler’s birth place.

Bran Castle - also known as Dracula’s Castle, a legendary Transylvanian fortress dating back to 1377. 

Corvinestilor Castle - the greatest Gothic style castle in Romania, Corvinesti. The edifice was built in the 14th Century on the site of a former Roman camp.

Snagov Monastery - where, according to the legend, Vlad was buried after his assassination 

Poienari Fortress - Vlad’s old and faithful citadel perched high on a cliff, more than 1000 stairs to climb.

Vampire Treats: indulge yourself with a Vampire dinner to find out why it’s worth killing for a meal!

Day by day itinerary

DAY 1, Sunday, Bucharest 
Welcome to Romania ! Our English speaking guide connects with you at Moxa Boutique Hotel. Accommodate into a 3* hotel, centrally located and then prepare to immerge into the legend. Drive to Snagov to visit Snagov Monastery where, according to the legend, Vlad was buried after his assassination. The monastic establishment is located on a small island of Snagov Lake. The architectural style of the monastery follows the architectural pattern that is characteristic to the monasteries on the Holy Mount Athos in Greece . Your first day in Romania ends with a welcome dinner in one of Bucharest's top traditional restaurants.

Day 2, Monday, Bucharest – Poienari – Sibiu (309 km, 5h 20 min driving)

Morning drive to Poienari. Enjoy a morning visit of Poienari to see the ruins of Vlad's old and faithful fortress. The fortress located close to Fagaras Mountains , on a canyon formed by Arges Rives is perched high on a cliff, in fact a steep precipice. To visit the impressive fortress and admire the unique and breathless view from the top you’ll need to climb over 1400 stairs. Late afternoon arrival in Sibiu. Evening in Sibiu, the European Cultural Capital for 2007. The fortified town of Sibiu has been the centre of Romania 's German minority since medieval times and it is one of Romania's most beautiful cities. The city contains the largest concentrations of tourist attractions in Romania. In the evening, accommodate in a 4* hotel.

Day 3, Tuesday, Sibiu – Hunedoara – Alba Iulia - TURDA (272 km, 3h 27 min driving)

We leave the impressive medieval town of Sibiu and head next to Hunedoara. Visit the greatest Gothic style castle in Romania, Corvinesti. The ediffice was built in the 14th Century, on the site of a former Roman camp. It served as a fortress until the mid 1400's, when it became the residence of Transylvania's ruler, Iancu de Hunedoara. Iancu upgraded the fortress and it soon became the most beautiful castle in Transylvania. From Hunedoara drive to Turda, a small town with an intimate medieval atmosphere, home to one of the oldest Salt Mine in Romania. Accommodate in a 4* hotel, often referred to as a medieval fantasy with beds . Delight yourself with a vampire menu for dinner , a delicious reason to travel to Transylvania ! Still, an evening to fear, you’ll attend the killing of a vampire; you’ll be part of the crowd seeking to take the bloody creature to a special place where the ritual can begin! The Ritual of Killing of the Living Dead* is followed by an Evening sitting, the Romanian term is Sezatoare.

*Ritual of Killing of The Living Dead takes place for groups of at least 4 travelers.

DAY 4, Wednesday, Turda - Cluj-Napoca - Borgo Pass (Pasul Bargaului) (191 km, 3h driving)

Prepare to descent to the heart of one of the biggest saline in Romania, the  Salt Mines of Turda, with impressive halls named after kings and queens.

Drive next to the city of Cluj Napoca to enjoy a city tour revealing beautiful medieval buildings such as Saint Andrews Cathedral. Today you'll enjoy a stunning scenery, following the steps of Jonathan Harker (Bram Stoker 's character from Dracula novel) to Borgo Pass. And here we are at Dracula's Castle in Borgo Pass, a 3* hotel which was built in accordance to Bram Stoker's imagination. Enjoy a candle lit dinner at the castle, followed by a bonefire nearby, with all the right stories for a night to remember.

 
DAY 5, Thursday, Borgo Pass - Sighisoara (198 km, 3h 29 min driving)

 
Time to leave this wonderful area and head next to the medieval citadel of Sighisoara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded by Saxons during the 12th century, Sighisoara still stands as one of Europe ’s most beautiful and still inhabited fortified cities. Sighisoara is also the place where Vlad the Impaler, known as Dracula, was born. Submerge yourself in the medieval atmosphere by visiting Sighisoara’s main attractions: The Clock Tower – built in 1360 and standing 60 meters tall on top of the citadel's hill, it hosts a museum and offers a great view over the citadel. The Torture Room –this small but interesting museum is housed at the foot of the Clock Tower in the same room where prisoners were tortured and confessions were extorted during the Middle Ages. Some of the amazing torture instruments and methods are on display. The Medieval Weapon Collection – very small but it contains an interesting selection of medieval weapons (swords, arrows, etc.). Church of the Dominican Monastery, known for its Transylvanian renaissance carved altarpiece, baroque pulpit, Oriental carpets and 17th century organ.

DAY 6, Friday, Sighisoara - Bran - Brasov (171 km, 2h 48 min driving)

Explore Transylvania's symbol, Bran Castle . The edifice owns its fame both to its unique charm and to the myth Bram Stoker created around Dracula. Documentary evidence of the castle dates back as far as 1377. Your next stop is the Medieval Saxon City of Brasov. The most famous landmark of Brasov is the Black Church, the largest gothic edifice in South-Eastern Europe . Accommodate in Brasov, 3* hotel, centrally located. Enjoy a local taste dinner and Attend Dracula’s Wedding* - is a show set on stage by a professional band of actors. This is a non verbal performance. It’s very easy to understand that Dracula did not need words to charm a girl. The first time they met he appeared as a respectable noble, the second meeting revealed his true dark nature… Find out if the story has a happy ending.

*Dracula's Wedding takes place for groups of at least 5 travelers 

*The July edition does not include Dracula's Wedding, but you have the opportunity to enjoy an exquisite dinner at Bran Castle.

DAY 7, Saturday, Brasov - Sinaia - Targoviste - Bucharest (192 km, 3h 44 min driving)

Morning drive to Sinaia, the pearl of mountain resorts in Romania . Explore the main point of attraction, the royal  Peles Castle . The edifice was built in 1873 and is an architectural mixture of theGerman School and neo-renaissance style. The castle has 160 rooms, all of them opulently decorated in leather and wood from the most valuable tree species. Peles Castle is one of the best preserved and the most beautiful royal residences in Europe. Continue your journey with Targoviste, former capital of Walachia County situated on the right bank of Ialomita River , to visit the ruins of  Vlad Tepes old court . Late  arrival in Bucharest , past 7:00 pm (based on normal traffic conditions). Should you wish to, we can complete your staying with an add-on program in Bucharest.

Testimonials I just wanted to let you know that we all enjoyed the trip very much. Our guide, Sorin, was very knowledgable with a great sense of humor, and our driver, Stephan, was very skilled, and also very personable. As I mentioned, all in all, we had a wonderful time and are very happy that we chose Transylvania Live. I also wanted to let you know that it was really nice to meet the people from Transylvania Live during our party in Turda. I will be sure to recommend you to any friends who might ask about Romania. Thank you again for all of your help, and most of all your patience with all of my many questions!!! Multumesc!!!! Damon B, New York, NY, USA

Sorin, group leader says: It’s a great satisfaction for me to guide this tour and share all my knowledge on Transylvania’s history and legends, and also create a special fairytale, funny atmosphere.

Awarded Vampire Tour in Transylvania - Highlights

Advice for US citizens traveling in Romania

Before you go write down contact details for the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate to carry with you in case of emergency while traveling.
US Embassy in Romania
4-6, Dr. Liviu Librescu Blvd.
District 1, Bucharest
015118 Romania
Telephone: (+40) 21 200-3300
https://ro.usembassy.gov/

Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel, and check exchange rates.
Some banks are blocking your credit card payment when a transaction occur from abroad.

Safeguard Your Documents!

Make two copies of all your travel documents in case of emergency. Leave one copy with a trusted friend or relative at home and carry the other separately from your original documents. To help prevent theft, do not carry your passport in your back pocket, and keep it separate from your money.

Passport Validity
Three months beyond departure date. We recommend a minimum of six months validity after entry date

• Children’s passports: Passports issued for children under age 16 are valid for only five years, not 10 years like adult passports. Check passport expiration dates carefully and renew early.

Visas
Not required for stays under 90 days

Consent for Travel with Minors
 If you are traveling alone with children, foreign border officials may require custody documents or notarized written consent from the other parent.
Health Insurance: Many foreign medical facilities and providers require cash payment up front and do not accept U.S. insurance plans. Medicare does not provide coverage outside of the United States. Check your U.S. health care policy to see if it will cover you overseas. If not, consider buying supplemental insurance. Make sure the insurance you purchase covers any special medical needs or risks you anticipate on your trip.

Currency restrictions
Entry: Amounts over 10,000 Euros or equivalent must be declared
For exit:  Amounts over 10,000 Euros or equivalent must be declared

Safety
There were no terrorist acts in Romania.
However credible information indicates terrorist groups continue plotting attacks in Europe. All European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations.

The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules [with regards to best practices and safety inspections] are regularly enforced, though some tourism-related activities (such as rock climbing and extreme sports) are less regulated than in the U.S. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available in near major cities.

Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. Medical treatment in Romania is not up to western standards. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance

Crime

Reported types of crime include:
• Robbery, pick pocketing, internet scams, and credit card fraud are the most commonly reported crimes.
• Organized groups of criminals, sometimes including minors, operate in train stations, trains, subways, and busses.
• Money exchange schemes often involve individuals posing as plainclothes policemen who approach you, flash a badge, and ask for your passport and wallet. Insist on the presence of a uniformed police officer and request that any issues be resolved at the police station.
• If traveling on an overnight train, travel with a companion and in the highest class available.
• Do not leave your personal belongings unattended; stow them securely out of sight.
• Use ATMs located inside banks. You should check ATM machines for any evidence of tampering before use.
• Be extra cautious of your surroundings if using an internet café.
• Use cash wherever possible in lieu of credit cards.

Laws
Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.
Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law.
Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately.
Special Circumstances:
• Romania is situated in a seismically active region and has a history of devastating earthquakes, with the greatest risk occurring in Bucharest.
• Mountainous areas of the country can be subject to torrential rains and flash floods, especially in the spring and summer months.
• Streets and sidewalks are often icy and hazardous during winter.
• Avoid contact with stray dogs.
• Travelers’ checks are of limited use, but ATMs (“bancomats” in Romanian) are widely available.

LGBT Travelers
 There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Romania. However, the annual gay pride parades in Bucharest have been the scene of violent protests in past years.

Health
Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.

Medical Insurance
 Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.
Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription.
• Basic medical supplies are limited in Romania, especially outside of major cities.
• Hospitals often lack nursing care and assistance for the elderly.
• Most prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications are available in Romania but are often sold under different names.
• Response times for emergency services vary widely depending on the region of the country and nature of emergency.
It is strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Road Conditions and Safety
 Though Romanian traffic laws are very strict, road accidents are a real and dangerous threat for U.S. citizens visiting Romania. According to the European Union Road Federation, Romania has the highest per-vehicle rate of road fatalities of any country in the EU, a rate similar with USA.

If you chose to drive in Romania, practice defensive driving techniques.
While major streets in larger cities and major inter-city roads are generally in fair to good condition, many secondary roads are in poor repair, unpaved, poorly lit, narrow, and lacking marked lanes.
• Mountain roads are particularly dangerous when wet or covered with snow or ice. Winter snow removal is intermittent.
• It is common for pedestrians, animals, cyclists, and horse-drawn carts to share a road with motor vehicles, especially in rural areas.
• Parked vehicles often block sidewalks, forcing pedestrians to walk in the streets.
• Cross only at crosswalks and exercise vigilance as crosswalks are generally poorly marked.
• Local drivers often ignore traffic lights and crosswalk signs.
Maintain vigilance when driving to avoid hitting pedestrians in the streets.
Traffic Laws: Romanian traffic laws are very strict.
• The traffic police can confiscate any form of a driver’s license or permit for 1-3 months and request payment of fines at the time of the infraction.
• Police are required to give all drivers involved in an accident a breathalyzer test on the scene.
• Refusal to take a breathalyzer test may result in criminal penalties regardless of whether or not alcohol was involved.
• Wearing a seat belt is mandatory.
• Children under 12 years of age may not be transported in the front seat.
• Use of mobile phones while driving is banned, with exception of hands free systems.

U.S. citizens arriving in Romania for stays up to 90 days may use their U.S. state drivers’ licenses (DL) along with an International Driving Permit. The U.S. Department of State has authorized two organizations to issue international permits to those who hold valid U.S. driver’s licenses: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance.

If entering Romania by vehicle you need to purchase a road tax badge known as “rovinieta” at the border crossing point. Proof of insurance and a car registration document are required when purchasing the “rovinieta.” Drivers of vehicles registered abroad who are not in possession of a valid international insurance document must buy short-term insurance at the border.

Roadside help, vehicle assistance, towing services: Dial 9271
Ambulance, fire brigade, police: Dial 112.

For more information https://travel.state.gov/

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