Bucharest: 3 Castles Day Trip Dracula, Peles & “Wednesday”

Planning a day trip from Bucharest to uncover Romania’s famous castles? This 12-hour guided tour offers a well-balanced mix of royal elegance, cinematic charm, and Gothic legend. While it’s a packed itinerary, it’s an excellent way to see some of the country’s most iconic sights without the hassle of navigating on your own.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to walk through Peles Castle—a Neo-Renaissance masterpiece that once hosted Romanian kings. Second, the visit to Cantacuzino Castle, which doubles as the filming location for Netflix’s Wednesday—a treat for fans of the series. Third, the visit to Bran Castle, famously linked to Dracula, where the legends are as vivid as the views.

A potential consideration is that entrance tickets are not included, so you’ll need to budget extra for those, and booking ahead is recommended to avoid long queues. The tour suits those eager to combine history, film, and legends comfortably in one day, especially if you enjoy stunning mountain scenery and engaging guides.

Good To Know

• All-in-one castling adventure from Bucharest to Romania’s most famous sites
• Includes professional guides sharing captivating stories and insights
• Great value for the price of $35, considering the transport and guided experience
• Focus on iconic locations like Peles, Cantacuzino, and Bran, each offering unique charm
• Perfect for history buffs, Netflix fans, and culture lovers
• Flexibility at each stop for photos and exploration, despite the busy schedule

You can check if your dates are available here:

Introduction: Who This Tour Is Perfect For

If you’re visiting Bucharest and want to see Romania’s most renowned castles without the stress of planning, this day trip might be exactly what you’re looking for. The 12-hour experience promises a blend of royal grandeur, Gothic mystery, and cinematic fame.

We love how the tour combines three very different castles—each with its own story, style, and atmosphere. The convenience of round-trip transport with a knowledgeable guide means you’ll get rich context without worrying about traffic or directions. Plus, the inclusion of a Netflix filming location adds a fun twist for fans of Wednesday.

One thing travelers should consider is the cost of entrance tickets, as they’re not included in the $35 price. This means some extra planning and spending, but the guide’s help in purchasing tickets on the day should make things smoother. This trip is well-suited for those who appreciate history, culture, or just want an Instagram-worthy day with a dash of legend.

Exploring the Itinerary: What You’ll Experience

Starting Point: Central Bucharest

The tour begins at Bulevardul Regina Elisabeta 8, a convenient central location near the university square. Early pickups mean you’ll beat some city traffic and head straight into the mountains.

Journey into the Carpathians

A bus ride lasting approximately 2.67 hours takes you out of Bucharest into the heart of the Carpathian range. The scenic drive itself is a highlight—expect sweeping mountain views and charming villages along the way.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Bran Castle: Dracula’s Home

Your first stop is Bran Castle, one of Romania’s most visited landmarks. Perched on a rocky hill, the fortress’s dramatic walls and narrow passages evoke Gothic stories of vampires and legends.

Visitors generally find the atmosphere captivating, and your guide will share the legends while you explore the rooms. Expect a mix of guided tour and free time for photos or wandering at your own pace. Keep in mind that entrance tickets are not included, but the team assists in purchasing them on-site.

One reviewer noted, “The castle is so atmospheric, and I loved seeing the secret stairways,” which shows how even the more touristic sites can surprise with their charm. The views from the castle provide fantastic photo opportunities, especially considering the mountain backdrop.

Short Drive to Cantacuzino Castle

Next, a quick 1-hour bus ride takes you to Cantacuzino Castle in Busteni. Known as the filming location for Netflix’s Wednesday, this early 20th-century castle is a feast for the eyes.

Surrounded by the Bucegi Mountains, the castle’s elegant interiors and beautifully maintained gardens are perfect for photos. As one reviewer put it, “It’s a stunning mix of art exhibitions and picturesque scenery,” making it a charming stop for culture and Instagram enthusiasts alike. You’ll have some free time here to explore the gardens or snap pictures inside.

The Jewel of the Carpathians: Peles Castle

The final stop is Peles Castle in Sinaia, about 20 minutes away. Once the summer residence of Romanian royalty, this Neo-Renaissance beauty is often called one of the most beautiful castles in Europe.

Inside, you’ll find lavish rooms filled with priceless art and intricate craftsmanship. The guide will offer insights into its history, and you’ll enjoy time for photos outside as well. Many reviews mention the “amazing architecture and stunning mountain views,” which truly make the visit memorable.

Return Journey and Reflection

After exploring Peles, the bus heads back toward Bucharest, with an estimated 2-hour drive. It’s a long day, but the scenery and stories make it worthwhile. The tour concludes at the starting point, ready for you to continue your Romanian adventure.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

At just $35 per person, this tour packs an incredible punch—covering transport, guided commentary, and visits to three major castles. While entrance fees are extra, the tour’s staff help you secure tickets efficiently, often skipping lines—a real time-saver.

The transportation is air-conditioned, making the long rides more comfortable. The small group size, combined with a professional guide, ensures you get personalized attention and engaging storytelling, especially if your guide speaks fluent English and other languages like Spanish, Italian, or German.

One reviewer mentioned, “Our guide was very friendly and spoke Spanish fluently. They explained many details and were very kind,” highlighting the top-notch service you can expect.

Highlights for Different Travelers

• History enthusiasts will enjoy learning about Romania’s royal and medieval past, as stories from your guide bring the castles’ histories to life.
• Netflix fans will love seeing Wednesday’s Nevermore Academy filming location, a place that’s surprisingly photogenic.
• Photography lovers will find plenty of picturesque moments, from mountain vistas to castle turrets.
• Legends and Gothic fans will be drawn to Bran Castle’s mysterious atmosphere and stories of Dracula.

Practical Tips for the Day

• Bring comfortable shoes—the castle tours involve some walking, and surfaces can be uneven.
• Pack sunglasses and sun protection for outdoor photo stops.
• Keep in mind that entrance tickets are not included; budget around €10-€15 per castle, and plan ahead.
• The itinerary order may vary depending on traffic or ticket availability, so stay flexible.
• Expect the day to run close to 12 hours, so dress appropriately and bring snacks or water for the journey.

The Sum Up

This full-day tour from Bucharest offers a fantastic way to see Romania’s most iconic castles without the hassle of self-driving or multiple bookings. The combination of royal palaces, cinematic filming locations, and Gothic legends provides a diverse experience that appeals to many interests.

While the long schedule might be tiring, the convenience, engaging guides, and stunning scenery make it worthwhile. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want a comprehensive yet manageable day trip, blending history, culture, and a sprinkle of pop culture.

If you’re eager to tick off Romania’s top castles in a single trip and enjoy stories along the way, this tour delivers solid value and memorable moments. Just remember to plan for the extra costs of tickets, and prepare to be wowed by the views and tales of Dracula.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are entrance tickets included in the tour price?
No, the tickets are not included, but the tour team helps you purchase them on the day. This allows you to skip queues and enjoy priority access at each site.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, starting from central Bucharest and returning there in the evening.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, making the long drives more pleasant, especially during warmer months.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English and other languages including Spanish, Italian, Albanian, Bulgarian, and more, depending on the day.

Can I take photos at the castles?
Absolutely. There’s plenty of time at each castle for photos, and the scenery outside Peles and Bran is particularly photogenic.

Are children allowed on this tour?
The tour is suitable for most ages, but it may not be ideal for those over 95 years old due to the walking involved.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and some cash for entrance tickets and personal expenses. Snacks are optional but recommended for the day.

Is this tour suitable for Netflix fans?
Yes, Cantacuzino Castle is a popular filming location for Wednesday, making it a fun stop for fans of the series.

How do I book this tour?
You can book through the scheduling platform, ensuring your spot for this memorable day of castles and legends.

This detailed look at the Bucharest: 3 Castles Day Trip should help you determine whether it’s the right fit for your Romanian adventure. With striking scenery, engaging stories, and a convenient schedule, it’s an experience that combines the best of Romania’s history and pop culture in one adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: