Dracula’s Story at Bran Castle, Brasov and Snagov Monastery

While famously marketed as "Dracula’s Castle," your visit will reveal two distinct and equally compelling layers of history.

The Dracula Myth: Perched on a 200-foot rock, the castle perfectly fits the Gothic imagery of Bram Stoker’s novel with its dramatic towers and narrow winding staircases. Inside, you’ll find dedicated exhibits on the "History of the Night," vampire lore, and the real-life Vlad the Impaler, whose brutal reign inspired the legend.

The Royal Residence: In stark contrast to the spooky marketing, the interior often feels like a cozy, light-filled country retreat. This is due to Queen Marie of Romania, who transformed the fortress into a summer home in the 1920s. You’ll see her collection of traditional Romanian art, hand-carved furniture, and even a "secret" staircase discovered during her renovations.

Brașov is often described as the "Crown Jewel" of Transylvania. It offers a perfect mix of medieval history, stunning Alpine scenery, and a vibrant European cafe culture that feels both exotic and remarkably safe.

The "Hollywood" Sign: One of the first things you'll notice is the massive, white "BRASOV" sign perched atop Mount Tâmpa. You can take a cable car or hike to the top for a panoramic view of the red-tiled roofs below.

The Black Church: This 600-year-old Gothic landmark is the largest of its kind in Romania. It earned its name after a great fire in 1689 blackened its walls. Inside, you'll find an impressive collection of Anatolian rugs—the largest in Europe outside Turkey.

Council Square (Piața Sfatului): The heart of the Old Town. It’s a pedestrian-friendly hub surrounded by colorful Baroque buildings, outdoor terraces, and the old Town Hall. It’s the perfect spot for "people watching" while enjoying local pastries or a Romanian beer.

Located about 25 miles north of Bucharest, Snagov Monastery is a small, 15th-century Orthodox church set on a tranquil island in Lake Snagov. It is best known as the reputed final resting place of Vlad the Impaler, the historical figure who inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula.

The monastery was once accessible only by rowboat, but it is now connected to the mainland by a modern pedestrian footbridge.

The small stone church features stunning Byzantine-Romanian architecture with vivid medieval frescoes that cover almost every inch of the interior walls.

It is a peaceful escape from the city, surrounded by water and greenery, where you might even see goats or ostriches on the way to the entrance.