3 Castles Bus Tour: Pele, “Wednesday” & Dracula Castles

Exploring Romania’s Castles in a Day: A full guide to the Pele, “Wednesday” Cantacuzino & Bran Castles Tour

Romania’s castles are legendary, each packed with stunning architecture, stories of royalty and vampires, and breathtaking scenery. This full-day bus tour from Bucharest offers a chance to see three of the top sites—Pele Castle, Cantacuzino Castle, and Bran Castle—without the hassle of planning multiple trips or navigating mountain roads yourself.

We love the tour’s value for money, the knowledgeable guides, and the variety of experiences packed into just 12 hours. That said, a potential hiccup is the length of the day, which can extend beyond the scheduled 12 hours due to traffic—so patience and comfortable shoes are a must. This experience is perfect for history buffs, film fans, or anyone wanting a quick yet comprehensive taste of Transylvania’s most famous landmarks.

Good To Know

• Three castles in one day: Pele, Cantacuzino (“Wednesday”), and Bran.
• Expert guides and comfortable coach transport make the long day manageable.
• Entry tickets are not included, but assistance with booking helps avoid queues.
• Pele Castle’s exterior can be viewed on Mondays and Tuesdays when it’s closed for interior tours.
• Tour duration may go over 12 hours, especially during peak times.
• Ideal for those who enjoy scenic drives, history, and iconic film locations.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An Intimate Look at Romania’s Famous Castles

This tour packs a lot into a single day, taking you from the lush Carpathian Mountains to fairy-tale castles and legendary vampire lore. We’ll walk through what you can expect at each site, what makes them special, and how the tour keeps everything flowing smoothly.

Starting Point and Transportation

The journey begins at Bulevardul Regina Elisabeta 8 in Bucharest, where a modern, air-conditioned coach awaits. The comfort of the transport is consistently praised—many reviewers mention that the coach is both clean and spacious, with a knowledgeable guide onboard. The drive to Sinaia takes about two hours, giving ample opportunity to settle in, soak up the scenery, and get excited for the day ahead.

Pele Castle: Romania’s Royal Gem

Our first stop is Pele Castle in Sinaia, a jewel of Neo-Renaissance architecture. Once the summer residence of Romania’s royal family, this castle is renowned for its opulence. As you step inside, you’ll find luxurious halls adorned with art and antiques, reflecting its regal past.

Many appreciate the guided tour, which highlights fascinating details about the castle’s history and architecture. One reviewer mentions, “We loved the way Pele Castle’s interiors are preserved—every room feels like stepping into a royal palace.” Due to its popularity, tickets are not included in the tour price, but the guides help you purchase them on-site. Keep in mind that Pele Castle is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so on those days, the visit focuses on exterior views and gardens.

Cantacuzino Castle: Netflix’s “Wednesday” Filming Location

Next, about 25 minutes from Sinaia, you’ll reach Cantacuzino Castle in Bușteni. This castle is widely recognized as the filming location for Netflix’s “Wednesday” series—specifically the school “Nevermore Academy.” If you’re a fan of the show, this will definitely be a highlight, especially during the exterior walk-around.

The interior boasts a mix of sophistication and vintage charm, with panoramic mountain views that make for excellent photos. One reviewer pointed out, “The view from the castle is incredible, and the interior was surprisingly elegant.” Again, tickets aren’t included but can be purchased with the guide’s assistance to save time and skip lines.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Bran Castle: The Legend of Dracula

The final stop is Bran Castle, the most internationally known of the three. Often called “Dracula’s Castle,” it’s a blend of medieval towers, narrow passages, and legends. Inside, the history mingles with stories of Bram Stoker’s fictional vampire, giving the place a slightly eerie, yet fascinating vibe.

Expect a mix of guided narration and free time—many visitors mention that the interior can feel underwhelming compared to the exterior’s dramatic presence. One review notes, “Bran is beautiful but a bit disappointing inside; take photos outside and enjoy the atmosphere.” The castle is always busy, and the tour’s organized structure helps you maximize your visit without feeling rushed.

Scenic Return and Flexibility

After exploring Bran Castle, the bus makes a long scenic drive back to Bucharest, often around three hours, depending on traffic. Reviewers mention that guide commentary keeps the atmosphere lively and informative, making the time pass quickly. The total tour duration might extend beyond 12 hours, especially during weekends or peak season, so be prepared for a full day.

Practical Details for the Perfect Day

Price and Value: At just $28 per person, this tour offers an economical way to see some of Romania’s most famous castles. Since entrance fees are not included, you should budget about €75 for all three tickets (paid in cash). Given the convenience of being driven between sites and the guided commentary, many consider this a good deal—especially when compared to the cost and hassle of organizing these visits independently.

Group Size and Guides: The tour offers both standard and small-group options, with guides speaking English, Spanish, and Italian. Many reviews highlight guide Ioana’s professionalism and language skills, noting she was always attentive and helpful. The guides’ local knowledge makes a huge difference, adding context and stories that bring the castles to life.

Timing and Length: The itinerary is tightly scheduled—each stop includes a break, photo opportunities, and a guided tour. While the overall experience is long, most travelers agree that the scenic drives and guide commentary make the day enjoyable rather than exhausting.

Comfort and Convenience: The coach’s modern amenities and air conditioning are especially appreciated on warmer days. The meeting point at University Square is central and easy to find, with clear instructions provided beforehand.

What You Need to Know Before You Go

• Tickets to castles are not included, but the tour staff helps with booking on the day.
• Pele Castle is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays; you’ll only see the exterior and gardens those days.
• Tour duration can go over 12 hours due to traffic, so be prepared for a full day with plenty of walking and standing.
• Bring comfortable shoes for uneven surfaces and walking around castles.
• The tour is not suitable for those over 95 years old due to the walking involved.
• Food and drinks are not included, so consider packing snacks or grabbing something during stops.
• No alcohol or drugs are permitted on the coach or at the castles.

The Sum Up

This three-castle tour offers a compelling combination of history, film, and legend all in one day. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate guided experiences, scenic drives, and authentic visits to iconic Romanian landmarks. With knowledgeable guides and well-organized logistics, it provides excellent value for a manageable price.

While the day can be long and the interior visits at Bran and Pele Castle might feel rushed for some, the overall experience delivers a rich taste of Romania’s cultural mosaic. Whether you’re a fan of vampire lore, royal architecture, or stunning mountain scenery, this tour covers a lot of ground with minimal stress.

If you’re looking for an easy, informative, and picturesque way to explore Transylvania’s highlights without the hassle of organizing transport or tickets yourself, this tour is a solid pick. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes, bring cash for tickets, and get ready for a memorable adventure into Romania’s legendary castles.

FAQ

Are entrance tickets included in the tour price?
No, tickets are not included. The tour staff helps with booking them on the day to avoid queues and ensure they’re valid for your visit.

What happens if Pele Castle is closed on the day I go?
If Pele Castle is closed on a Monday or Tuesday, the tour will focus on the exterior and gardens instead of the interior.

How long is the drive between the castles?
The drive from Sinaia to Bușteni takes about 25 minutes, and the trip back to Bucharest can take around three hours depending on traffic.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
It’s best suited for those who can handle a full day of walking and bus travel. The tour is not recommended for people over 95 years old.

Can I buy tickets for the castles at each site?
Yes, but the guides assist in purchasing them on the day, which helps you skip queues and ensures your tickets are valid for your scheduled visit.

What’s the best time of year to take this tour?
Spring and fall usually offer the best weather and scenery, but the tour runs year-round, weather permitting.

Are there any food options during the day?
Food and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or eating during stops is recommended.

Will I get enough time at each castle?
Most reviews suggest you’ll have enough time for photos, a guided tour, and some free exploration, though Bran Castle can feel a bit rushed inside.

How comfortable is the coach?
The coach is modern, air-conditioned, and praised for its comfort, making the long day manageable.

Is there a guide speaking my language?
Guides speak English, Spanish, and Italian. Audio guides are available in multiple languages, including Hebrew, Chinese, and French.

In summary, this tour delivers a well-rounded, engaging, and cost-effective way to see some of Romania’s most iconic castles. It’s perfect for travelers who want a taste of fairy-tale landscapes, legendary stories, and royal history—all in just one day.

You can check if your dates are available here: