Transylvania has Brasov's Gothic square, Sighisoara's fortified citadel, Bran Castle and Carpathian hiking and bear spotting. It is the heart of Romania and best in late spring through early autumn.
Good to know
- Rent a car to reach villages and castles; roads are improving but slow.
- Bran Castle is busy; arrive at opening.
- Bear-watching hides can be arranged near Zarnesti.
Eat this
Places the planner can use
Mark places as a must or something to skip. The itinerary is built only from this list; ★ marks the destination’s highlights.
Medieval square beneath Mount Tampa, with the largest Gothic church in southeastern Europe.
Sarmale, polenta and papanasi in a cozy cellar.
Evening trip to a forest hide near Zarnesti to watch wild brown bears at dusk, usually with a local guide.
Day hike on the limestone ridge of Piatra Craiului National Park, with alpine meadows and long views over the valleys.
Hilltop castle associated with the Dracula legend, with museum rooms inside.
UNESCO fortified medieval town, the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler.
Neo-Renaissance royal summer palace in the mountains.
One of Europe's best mountain roads, open in summer only.
Pretty Saxon town with 'eyes' on the rooftops.
UNESCO village of painted houses, loved by Prince Charles.
Medieval peasant fortress on a hilltop above the town, with a small museum and views across the Carpathian foothills.