There are several hiking trails available that lead through the gorges and offer stunning views of the natural landscape. Take in the stunning scenery and breathtaking views of the Carpathian Mountains while hiking along its many trails. In Cluj County, the most visited tourist attraction is Turda Salt Mine. The church offers visitors many striking features, including a stunning collection of Oriental carpets that date back to the 17th and 18th centuries as well as a mechanical organ that is among the largest in southeastern Europe. If you're short on time, arriving in Bucharest and want to get the a condensed tour of the region with the best places to visit, check out this amazing and unique itinerary we prepared for this: We prepared a similar one starting from the city of Cluj-Napoca, the largest city in Transylvania: But if you want to have an authentic holiday in Transylvania, then you need min. Over the next centuries, the combination of locals, Roman settlers and migrants is what eventually gave birth to Romanians who continued to live in these parts. Required fields are marked *, This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google. It takes around 4-5 hours to reach the city from Brasov, and the sights in Hunedoara are certainly worth it. It's a perfect blend of architectural elegance and artistic beauty and an excellent place to spend a day exploring the grounds and the various halls of the castle. One of the oldest forts in Brasov is the 13th-century Feldioara fortress - Marienburg it is an incredibly impressive structure that stresses the deep historical roots of the region. In short, more than 2,000 years ago large parts of the region was settled by our ancestors, the Dacians. Biertan Fortified Church, another UNESCO world heritage site. Stay in family-owned boyar mansions or restored village houses, Romanian Local Life: Food, People & Cultural Tours, Major Romanian cities: All Tours & Day Trips, We use cookies to make sure you have the best user experience on our website and for analytics purposes. See a Gothic castle full of legends: Corvin Castle, 4. The fortress served as an important strategic point in medieval times, serving as a refuge for the local population during times of war and conflict. After loosing its role and significance from medieval times, Bran Castle was sort of abandoned until 1920 when it was donated to the Royal Family. 2-3 days. Walking out into the Old Town, you'll come across a plethora of medieval buildings lining Brasov's cobbled streets with their distinctive architectural styles. Offering premium accommodation services, locally sourced organic foods, amazing views and a beautiful example of how rural life can blend with modern needs, these guesthouses are so beautiful and popular they're in high demand all year long! The construction of the highway began in 1970 under the direction of Nicolae Ceausescu, Romanias communist leader at that time. Located near Brasov, in the heart of Transylvania, Bran Castle was built in the early 14th century. Nonetheless, the views alone were more than worth the visit which I enjoyed admiring with a light salad. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, or simply looking for a fun day out, the Turda Salt Mine is sure to leave a lasting impression. Location: Central Romania Area: 34,177 sq miles Population: Approximately 5.1 million The town continues to grow and develop as an important industrial and academic centre. In addition to its stunning architecture and history, Sighisoara Citadel is also a hub of cultural events and festivals. The eerie atmosphere is palpable as visitors walk through the dungeon and see the various torture devices on display. The castle, also known as Hunyadi Castle or Hunedoara Castle, has a rich history and served as a military stronghold against Turkish invasions. We will update our content. Although I did have fun strolling around the grounds and capturing photos with fellow travel bloggers. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or a vampire aficionado, this region has something for you. Located in the heart of Transylvania, Rasnov Fortress stands tall as a symbol of the region's rich history and cultural heritage. Bears Sanctuary, Dracula's Castle, Brasov Day Trip Private Tour from Bucharest. For years, locals have had a clear preference for home-made, organic, 'buy local' and to support small producers - which makes food in the region truly delicious! So the most important thing you should know is that visiting Transylvania is NOT just about seeing its top tourist attractions to snap some quick pictures, grab a tacky Dracula souvenir from gift shops or do a day trip from Bucharest to the city of Brasov and Bran Castle, the main tourist destination in the region. Want more? Discover the unique architecture and history of the Saxon villages scattered throughout Transylvania, such as Sighisoara, Biertan, and Viscri. While enjoying your meal, you can look out to admire the mountains of Poiana Stnei Turistice and the ski resort and see those on the beautiful slopes when visiting in Winter. You can reach the peak of Mount Tmpa and see the sign for yourself by travelling by cable car, where you'll ascend right over the region and be able to take in the picturesque landscape of Bravos. Each grave marker is a unique work of art, featuring bright colors and intricate carvings. It reminded me of the Biltmore in Asheville, NC. The UNESCO Sighisoara Citadel and Saxon Villages with Fortified Churches 3. Bran Castle lies less than 30 km from Brasov, built on a rock in a strategically key location. It is situated on a hill overlooking the village of Biertan, and was designed to withstand assaults from invaders. These stunning gorges are a natural wonder of Romania, located in the eastern Carpathian Mountains. This historical site has been transformed into a unique and exciting tourist attraction, offering visitors an unforgettable experience unlike any other. The Gothic Church on the Hill is one of the oldest churches in the city, and it offers stunning views of the citadel from the top. While all these are true - except for the Count Dracula and vampires part - there is so MUCH more about visiting Transylvania you should know! The citadel itself has a rich history too! You spend time reading, socialising, playing all sorts of games or walking. want to go. The highway is also famous for its numerous hairpin turns, making the driving experience exhilarating and challenging. Read our full guide on hiking in Romania to find out the huge - and undiscovered - outdoor potential of our country. Its rugged beauty, fascinating history and enduring cultural significance make it a must-see for anyone visiting Romania. Founded by the Transylvanian Saxons in the 12th century, the town was utilised as a military stronghold for centuries. Alba-Iulia Visitors can explore this vast underground network by foot, descending down a long staircase into the depths of the mine. Top Things to Do in Transylvania, Romania: See Tripadvisor's 298,324 traveller reviews and photos of Transylvania tourist attractions. Travelers are voting Transfgran, Brasov and Bran Castle as the best of 26 tourist attractions in Transylvania. This stretch of the highway is only accessible during the summer months from June to October as it is buried under snow the rest of the year. This was our people's struggle and dream for at least 300 years! Known as the city of roses, Targu Mures is one of Transylvania's most underrated historical centres. And perfect if youre planning a sunny getaway or a winter wonderland escape. Visitors can take guided tours of the castle, watch re-enactments, and even attend festivals and concerts held on the castle grounds. 3-5 days to travel between different cities and tourist attractions. Even for those less familiar with the world of books, there is an attraction: the secret door, a passageway behind a bookshelf, through which the king could find refuge in various rooms of the Castle. Nestled in the misty hills of the Carpathians, Bran Castle conjures up images of Dracula and Gothic horror. Its also home to some of the oldest and largest collections of Anatolian carpets in Europe. It is a fantastic way to discover the beauty of the country as well as the local culture. Sample the delicious dishes of Transylvania, such as sarmale (cabbage rolls stuffed with meat and rice), mici (grilled minced meat rolls), and cozonac (sweet bread filled with nuts and dried fruits). Built in the 13th century by the Teutonic Knights, the fortress has witnessed several waves of invaders and sieges, emerging victorious each time. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Nestled in the heart of Transylvania, Romania, is an underground wonderland waiting to be explored: the Turda Salt Mine. Visit the spectacular (and healthy!) Completely immersed in beautiful countryside, the little town has picturesque landscapes that are simply stunning. From old-school, large-scale wineries to boutique, specialised producers, in the last 10 years the quality and popularity of Romanian wines has increased significantly - and so has wine tourism! No cellular reception - and you're not allowed any food or drinks other than water to avoid air contamination. It's about discovering how a unique mix of cultures is kept alive, about experiencing rural life, admiring nature and relaxing. The centre of the village still looks like it did centuries ago, which is part of its charm. We were shown just a glimpse of the many incredible things to do in Transylvania. Bran Castle In this article, we've rounded up 12 must-see destinations that should be on your bucket list when planning your Transylvania itinerary. As a tourist, you can immerse yourself in a Transylvanian cultural bath that will enrich both your spirit and mind. Among the most popular destinations for tourists is Brasovs Black Church, a Gothic-style structure that dominates the citys skyline. In addition to the Ferris wheel, the Turda Salt Mine also features a mini golf course, a bowling alley, and a lake where visitors can take boat rides. Despite its attraction to tourists, the Transfagarasan Highway is not for the faint-hearted. What to visit in Transylvania Sighisoara Medieval Town Sighisoara / Schburg / Segesvr, besides being the birthplace of famous Vlad the Impaler associated with Dracula is the last still inhabited medieval citadel not only in Transylvania but in whole Europe and also a World Heritage Site since 1993. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in the Mures County of Romania and is renowned for its stunning beauty and rich cultural heritage. Every single room inside the castle will make you gaze around in awe, with pointed arches and reaching ceilings emphasising the ornate decorations and the historical importance of the structure. But Transylvanias true beauty lies in its famous countryside and rural areas, in traditional villages where the simple way of life of locals, their sense of community and hospitality will capture your soul instantly. Outside this period Transfagarasan Road can be seen from above! And it's pretty special, too. That's why Alba Iulia is considered Romania's spiritual capital and why on 1 December (National Day) the celebrations here are impressive. Descend into the depths of the earth and explore the underground world of the Turda Salt Mine, complete with a Ferris wheel and boating on a salt lake. However, it became famous worldwide thanks to the novel Dracula, written by Bram Stoker in 1897. Apart from the church, Sinaia Monastery also boasts a museum, which houses a collection of religious artifacts, icons, and other works of art. When it came to exploring inside it was disappointing simply because of how busy it was meaning that it couldnt be enjoyed properly as the small hallways were crammed with people, so it was a little difficult to appreciate and generally look at things. Add to the mix picturesque landscapes and quiet village life you've got yourself a perfect holiday in Romania to disconnect and wind down far from the business of city life. This region is mainly predominant by mountains and hills forming the picturesque rustic image of Transylvania loved by so many. The difference between salt mines and all other mines is that breathing salty air is good for your lungs. 6. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. And even though Romanians were always the most numerous - we never had political autonomy and independence. Ticket costs 8 Euro or $9. Alba-Iulia is the largest city in Alba County, and it is also the place where you will find the beautiful Alba Carolina Citadel. Your email address will not be published. The castle became hugely popular thanks to Bram Stokers Dracula novel about a fictional character inspired by the Romanian prince Vlad the Impaler. It's perfect for those seeking to learn about the tales of historical legends and supernatural creatures. Or if youre driving, they have a large carpark next to it. People with respiratory problems such as asthma are being sent by doctors for salt therapies aka sitting and breathing the air. 1-3, Hunedoara 331141, Romania, 13 Fun Things to Do in Gilroy, California, Strada Mnstirii 2, Sinaia 106100, Romania, 12 Fun and Fascinating Things to Do in Hampton Beach, New Hampshire, 13 Fun Things to Do in Royal Oak, Michigan, 13 Amazing Things to Do in St Louis for Memorial Day Weekend, Curtea Johannes Honterus 2, Braov 500025, Romania. Read more details in our, A post shared by National Geographic (@natgeo), day trip from Bucharest to the city of Brasov and Bran Castle, 3-Day BEST of Transylvania Tour: Brasov, Sighisoara, Bran & Viscri, 3-Day Transylvania Tour: Cities, Sights & Local Life, the Saxon villages with fortified churches, The BEST of Romania 9-Day Shared Group Tour [2023], UNESCO Sites of Romania: Viscri & Sighisoara Citadel Day Trip, Cluj Top Attractions: Turda Salt Mine, Alba Iulia Citadel & Rimetea Village, Sibiu Day Trip to Corvin (Hunyadi) Castle & Alba Iulia Citadel, 2 Day Hiking in Apuseni Natural Park: Culture & Local Life, 2-Day Transylvania Bike Trails Tour: Viscri & Saxon Villages, 2-days of Agro-Tourism in Transylvania at a Local Farm, 5-Day Complete Tour of Traditional Maramures & Bucovina, 2-Day Trip in Maramures: UNESCO Wooden Churches & Village Life, Bear watching trip experience in Brasov - Transylvania, Day trip to Danube Gorge and King Decebal Statue, Communist Bucharest Walking Tour: Ceausescu Palace & others, Hiking Tour from Cluj: Apuseni Natural Park & Local Life, Visit Corvin Castle (Hunyadi) and Alba Iulia Citadel Tour, Transfagarasan Highway Tour - A day trip from Sibiu, Full Day Tour from Cluj: Turda Salt Mine & Alba Iulia Citadel, Hiking Brasov and Wildlife Tracking Day Trip in Carpathians, Visit Peles Castle and Bran (Dracula) Castle in one day tour, Horse riding Transylvania Romania & stay in local guesthouse, Maramures Guided Tour: Wooden Churches of Maramures, A night trip in Romanian haunted forest - Hoia Baciu, Romania Photo Tour: From villages to local life, Bucharest Local & Street Food Tour in Farmers' Markets and Hidden Streets, The most beautiful hike in the Romanian Carpathians, 10 Travel Tips for First Time Visitors in Romania, 20 Things to do in Romania: Famous, Cool & Unique, The best and must see sights of Transylvania, Photography in Romania: best places & what to look for, The Complete Guide to Hiking in Romania & Transylvania, Traditional Romanian Food: Dishes, Drinks & Deserts, Best Romania Ski & Winter resorts | The Local Guide, Tourist Guide to Bucharest: Airport, Taxi, Transport & Safety, Die besten Sehenswrdigkeit von Transsilvanien (Siebenbrgen), Reisetipps fr Erstbesucher in Rumnien in 2020, Fun fact: contrary to the reputation and looks of most Gothic Castles, Huffington Post considered it as, the hip, bustling, IT and student town of. While the 10-minute cable car journey is practical, you might decide to be more adventurous and try to hike up the mountain. The region of Sibiu is particularly famous for its products (cheese, fresh sour cream, cured meats, salami and jams) and typical dishes, which is why it was was awarded the European Region of Gastronomy title in 2019. The mine's constant temperature of around 10-12 degrees Celsius makes it an ideal place to escape from the hot summer sun or the cold winter weather. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Stunning facts about Transylvania and the mountains around Sibiu, Alba Iulia fortress, the largest bastion in Southeastern Europe, Transylvania, a fall destination not to be missed in 2021, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UWLU-QjLEtU, https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY6B24LqjbSs_IHUZVcutzQ. Scattered across the city are medieval sights that preserve this rich history, including the UNESCO Heritage Site the 12th century Sighisoara Citadel, the Clock Tower, and the Monastery Church. Legend has it that the keys to the locks were held by seven different officials in the church, ensuring that no one person could access the room alone. Check out our map of tourist attractions in Transylvania or this 1 tourist attractions in Brasov. In this travel guide we'll tell you why this region is so famous, what are the best places to visit, things to do and famous tourist attractions so you can plan an amazing holiday in Transylvania! When one thinks of Transylvania, the image of Dracula may come to mind. I prefer Corvins Castle to Bran Castle because although it was still busy the site is far bigger to explore so youre not cramped and can stroll around at your own pace. Seen from all over Brasov, the sign is one of the region's most iconic attractions, making for a great photo opportunity. Coming only from Brasov or Sibiu and driving partially on the road and then taking a cable car across the closed section all the way to the top of the road at Balea Lake, a mesmerising glacial lake. Even if it is just a small town, Sighisoara has many well-preserved architectural monuments, reminiscent of the towns medieval past. I appreciate your sharing. Its rooms are simple because that's how they were in medieval times with narrow corridors and staircases. In conclusion, Corvin Castle is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Transylvania. The Turda Salt Mine has a rich history dating back to the Roman Empire, when salt was extracted from this location. A typical village Saxon village Transylvania. This is by far one of the best activities to do in Romania and in Transylvania especially. During my travels lots of people told me I want to visit Transylvania - but its not that simple! But its history is complex and reflects its multicultural identity. From its unique blackened bastions and the impressive drawbridge, to the grand halls and secret staircases, Corvin Castle is a marvel of medieval architecture. The castle is a testament to the resilience of those who built it and a reminder of the turbulent times in which it was built. Sian Victoria - The Clock Tower, Historic Centre of Sighioara. Sibiu has a great mix of old and new. Known as a matrimonial prison, the building inside the fortified ensemble from Biertan hosted spouses who announced their intention to divorce. Growing up as a lover of Buffy the Vampire Slayer and all vampire-related movies and TV shows. 10 Fun-Filled Family Activities in Big Bear, CA, 13 Non-Ride Activities to Experience at Magic Kingdom, Strada General Traian Mooiu 24, Bran 507025, Romania, 13 Fun and Exciting Things to Do in San Mateo, 12 Fun and Exciting Things to Do in Silver Bay, Minnesota, Aleea Peleului 2, Sinaia 106100, Romania, Curtea Corvinetilor nr. Its stunning Gothic-style architecture, intricate adornments, and fascinating history make it an unforgettable experience. Bran Castle was was rather plain & not spooky. The 500-year-old church was partly destroyed and re-building parts of it took 100 years to complete as a result, it lost a lot of its original gothic charm. You can ride an underground Ferris wheel or go on a boat ride on an underground lake. Alba Iulia Citadel in the small town of Alba Iulia, is considered the spiritual birthplace of modern Romania. Tickets cost 11 Euro or $12. Located in the heart of Transylvania, Biertan Fortified Church is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the region. Yup - going to a salt mine in Romania is like going to the park on a chilly day. Famous natural attractions you should see: The combination of Transylvania's multiculturalism, heritage buildings, picturesque countryside and sustainable, ancestral way of life attracted many locals tired of the big city life looking to create a different life. Inside the castle, visitors are greeted with an array of luxurious rooms and halls decorated with intricate wood carvings, stained glass windows, and frescoes. The glass ceiling is mobile, operated by an electric motor or a manual system, and was an element of surprise for the guests, who could admire the blue sky on summer nights. Brasov was a nice tourist town & I would have liked more time there to explore. For example, in Maramures centuries old Romanian traditions and customs are still part of everyday life. As well as visits to Bucharest, Timisoara, and Oradea. In total there are over 150 fortified attractions to visit, most of which well preserved, so tourists passionate about history will have a busy itinerary! You don't need to be in Los Angeles to see the infamous Hollywood Sign, because sitting at the top of Mount Tmpa is Brasov's very own version of the sign. However, perhaps the most impressive feature of the Black Church is its bell tower, the largest in Romania, which houses a 6-ton bell that chimes on special occasions, such as New Years Eve and religious holidays. Although Dracula himself is not real, Vlad the Impaler, the historical figure that inspired Stoker's legend, actually had a connection to the castle. Piatra Craiului National Park Private Hiking Tour from Brasov. Due to its high altitude, weather conditions can be treacherous, with fog, snow, and ice affecting road conditions. However, this spectacular castle is far more than a simple horror story. Turda Salt Mine 5. 10 Best Thing's to do & Places to Visit in Transylvania Romania Sian Victoria. Admire the pointed arches of its exterior and its magnificent baroque interiors inside when you pay 15 RON to enter the historic site. One of the most beautiful castles in Transylvania, and one of the largest throughout Europe. During the Ottoman invasion of the region in the late 16th century, the fortress emerged as a symbol of Transylvanian resistance, holding off the invading forces for several months. These are the highest, most beautiful and wild in our country and a favorite destination for hiking in Transylvania. Besides the delicious food (all with home-grown ingredients! And Turda Salt Mine does a great job at that. With its rich history and unique features, it provides a one-of-a-kind experience that cannot be found anywhere else. . Perhaps the most prominent feature within the square, it's said to be the most visited building in the whole of Brasov. Overall, Bicaz Gorges is a must-see destination for travelers seeking natural beauty and adventure. The ruins of the castle have been restored in recent years and if you're really into the subject then it's worth visiting. 12 Fun Activities in Santa Clarita This Weekend, 12 Fun Activities to Try in Bridgeville, PA, 13 Fun Things to Do in Singer Island, Florida, 10 Best Things to Do in La Plata, Argentina, 12 Top Activities to Experience in Rajasthan. Overall, the Biertan Fortified Church is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, and religious art. Despite facing numerous challenges throughout its history, including invasions by foreign armies and natural disasters, the church has remained a testament to the strength and unwavering faith of the citys inhabitants. The mine spans over 42 hectares, with 13 galleries and chambers that reach depths of up to 120 meters. Alongside being home to centuries-old structures that retain the traditional nature of the city, Sighisoara is worth a visit simply for its beautiful landscape. Today, it stands as one of the most impressive castles in Romania and a popular tourist attraction in Transylvania. Bran Castle perches dramatically on a hill in Transylvania, its burnt-orange-tiled turrets and steeples rising above a crown of trees in Romania 's Carpathian Mountains.
Nutshell Animation Creator,
Feversham Education Trust,
Kanopolis Lake State Park Camping,
Just Eat Takeaway Software Engineer Salary,
Skyline Sports Calendar,
Articles T