Private Day Trip True Castles of Vlad Dracula and Transfagarasan Road

A $254.67 per person private day trip from Bucharest offers an immersive experience into the life and legends of Vlad the Impaler, inspired by Dracula. The 12-hour tour takes visitors through historic sites with authentic connections to the infamous prince, including Poenari Castle, Targoviste, and the Curtea de Arges monastery. Alongside these culturally rich stops, the journey includes a drive along the Transfagarasan Highway—renowned as one of Romania’s most spectacular roads—passing over the Vidraru Dam with breathtaking mountain views.

This tour is perfect for those who appreciate history, architecture, and scenic drives. Its focus on authentic Dracula locations distinguishes it from more generic tours, offering detailed insights through a private guide and air-conditioned vehicle. Travelers should note that Targoviste is sometimes skipped, depending on the season, and entrance fees are not included, so budgeting for those is recommended. The group size remains small and personalized, making this a flexible and engaging experience.

Key Points

• Private, full-day tour from Bucharest focused on Dracula-related sites and scenic mountain routes.
• Visit historic locations including Targoviste, Poenari Castle, and Curtea de Arges Monastery.
• Climb to the top of Poenari Fortress, known as the real Dracula’s castle, with a hike of about 1 hour.
• Drive along the Transfagarasan Highway, crossing over Vidraru Dam, with spectacular views and photo opportunities.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off are included, with a personal guide ensuring a tailored experience.
• Entrance fees are not included, so plan accordingly for additional costs.

From Bucharest to the Heart of Dracula’s Legend

This tour begins early in the morning in Bucharest, where a professional guide collects you from your hotel or meeting point. The journey westward sets the stage for a full immersion into Romania’s historic sites linked to Vlad the Impaler.

The first stop is Targoviste, where the Royal Court once hosted Vlad Dracula’s father, Vlad Dracul. Here, you’ll learn about Vlad Tepes’ reputation for cruelty, including the notorious event of Easter 1459, when he impaled noblemen to build Poenari Fortress. The royal court was a pivotal setting for Vlad’s early rule and rebellion against the Ottoman Empire.

Exploring the Authentic Poenari Castle

The highlight for many is the climb to Poenari Castle, believed to be the “real Dracula’s castle”. This ruined fortress clings to the mountainside, requiring a 1400-step ascent that takes approximately one hour. The path is steep and rustic, offering a challenging hike with rewarding views.

Once at the top, visitors find the remnants of Vlad Tepes’ residential towers. Legends abound, including the story of Vlads wife jumping from the tower to escape capture and Vlad himself escaping over the mountains on horseback. The small citadel now bears the marks of time, but its history and legends continue to fascinate visitors.

Discovering the Monastic Treasures at Curtea de Arges

Next, the tour visits Curtea de Arges, once the second capital of Wallachia. This town features a medieval fortress, frescoed monastery, and church that showcase Romanian architectural styles from the 16th century.

The Princely Church and the monastery are especially notable as some of the earliest examples of Romanian paintings. The rebuilt monastery from 1512-1517 stands as a testament to religious and cultural heritage, offering a peaceful contrast to the more intense historic sites.

The Legend of Vlad at Poenari and the Scenic Drive

The two-hour visit at Poenari Castle combines physical activity and storytelling, as travelers climb to the top and explore its crumbling remains. The legendary stories of Vlad Tepes’ escape and his wife’s sacrifice add a layer of intrigue to the rugged site.

Following this, the tour continues with a short visit to the Vidraru Dam, a massive hydroelectric structure completed in 1966. Standing 166 meters tall and stretching 305 meters across the Arges River, the dam creates the artificial Vidraru Lake. The dam’s construction took over five years and remains a remarkable feat of engineering.

The Transfagarasan Highway: A Scenic Marvel

The Transfagarasan Highway is a standout feature of this tour. At over 150 kilometers, it is Romania’s most famous road and a favorite among travelers for its spectacular mountain views and twisting curves.

The highway reaches a peak elevation of 2,042 meters at the Lake Balea tunnel, where visitors can stop to take photos and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. Open from June to October, it’s widely praised after appearing on BBC Top Gear. During the season, this route offers an unparalleled driving experience over the Carpathian Mountains.

Practical Details and Pacing

The tour starts at 8:00 am with hotel pickup and lasts around 12 hours. The itinerary balances sightseeing, hiking, and scenic drives efficiently, with enough time at each stop to explore without feeling rushed.

Physical activity is involved, especially at Poenari Castle, so comfortable footwear is recommended. The air-conditioned vehicle and private guide create a comfortable environment, with plenty of opportunities for questions and personalized attention.

What’s Included and What to Budget For

Included in the price are hotel pickup and drop-off, a professional guide, and the private tour experience. However, entrance fees are not included, so guests should plan extra for site admissions. Tips for guides or drivers are also not included but appreciated.

Seasonality and Tour Flexibility

Depending on the season, the tour may skip Targoviste and include the Transfagarasan Road only during June to October, due to road closures in winter. Between 30th October and 30th June, Targoviste is visited instead. This flexibility ensures a smooth experience regardless of the time of year.

Satisfaction and Recommendations

The five-star reviews highlight knowledgeable guides, especially mentioning Mr. Andrei and Rasvan for their friendly, helpful, and engaging approach. Visitors praise the stunning views and the exciting climb up Poenari Castle. The scenic drive along the Transfagarasan Road also receives high praise, particularly for its spectacular landscapes.

Visiting Romania’s Dracula Sites with Confidence

This private day trip from Bucharest delivers a well-rounded experience focused on Vlad Dracula’s history, medieval architecture, and mountain scenery. The personalized guide and small group format ensure an engaging and comfortable journey.

While entrance fees are not included, the overall value lies in the authentic sites and spectacular scenery. The tour is most suited for history enthusiasts, scenic drive lovers, and those wanting an intimate exploration of Romania’s legendary past.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, starting at 8:00 am and returning in the evening.

What are the main stops on this trip?
Stops include Targoviste, Poenari Castle, Curtea de Arges Monastery, Vidraru Dam, and the Transfagarasan Highway.

Is physical activity required?
Yes, climbing to the top of Poenari Castle involves about 1 hour of hiking over 1400 steps.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees are not included in the tour price and should be paid separately at each site.

What season is best for this tour?
The Transfagarasan Highway is open from June to October. Outside this period, the tour visits Targoviste instead.

Can I customize this tour?
This is a private tour, so customization is possible depending on your preferences and the season.

Is pickup available?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making the day hassle-free.

What guides lead this tour?
Reviews mention knowledgeable guides like Mr. Andrei, Alex, and Rasvan, known for their friendly and engaging style.

How much should I budget for extra expenses?
Guests should budget for entrance fees and tips, as these are not included.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children should be accompanied by an adult and prepared for hiking and walking.

How do I book this tour?
Bookings can be made in advance, typically 24 days ahead, through the booking platform linked in the source.

This Private Day Trip to the True Castles of Vlad Dracula and Transfagarasan Road offers a comprehensive and personalized experience into Romania’s legendary past and stunning landscapes, making it an excellent choice for those eager to explore with comfort and insight.