Transylvania Tours and Trips

Contrary to popular belief, Transylvania is not just the home of Count Dracula. It is, in fact, a very important and culturally diverse region located in the heart of Romania.

Transylvania is really something else; first visitors to the region are consistently converted into regular tourists on discovering the beauty and variety of things to do. Prince Charles can be counted among the travellers who have been captivated by the Transylvanian charm, as he bought and restored no less than 3 traditional village houses where he spends his summers!

The word Transylvania is Latin for ‘land beyond the forest’ and it is quite an appropriate title. The region is located in the Carpathian arc and is very large; made up of vast woodlands, rolling hills and quaint villages. And the way of life in Transylvania is refreshingly different to that of the modern and connected world we find in most cities today.

A trip to Transylvania is one that requires a bit of forethought and planning. To fully appreciate the region it is important to have an understanding of the history and culture of Romania. On arrival, the best thing you can to do is to take it slow, meet the locals and their eat incredible food. There are plenty of guided tours run by locals in the area who are thrilled to introduce visitors to their beloved Transylvania.

Top Things to do in Transylvania

• visit Medieval Castles in Transylvania

30 km outside of Brasov, in the mountain resort with the same name, Bran Castle is one of the most famous castles in Europe and a popular tourist attraction for day trips in Transylvania, mostly because of its association with Bram Stoker’s Dracula.

Although the author’s depiction of the castle seems so close to the real Bran Castle, in reality Stoker never set foot in Romania, let alone the Bran Castle. Still, erected on top of a peak, overlooking the valley, as this was originally a medieval defense fortress, the castle looks and feels like something taken out of fairy tales. It was also the summer residence of the royal family, after careful renovations and restorations done in the 1920.

Another fairy tale (or horror tale, depending on the preference) castle is Corvin or Hunyady Castle. This majestic construction is a great representative of Gothic art in Transylvania and this destination makes for an exciting Transylvania day trips. And a guided tour is the right choice the castle has a lot of stories and legends to tell and only a tourist guide can do that for you. One legend is that of the 25 meters deep well dug by Turkish prisoners who were never released despite freedom having been promised to them upon the completion of the well.

Designed in the 15th century as a defense fortress against the Ottomans, the castle has a majestic drawbridge, over 40 high thick walls, and defense towers. The bellicose nature of the time made it so they would make use of all their defense systems over and over again. The ticket price for one adult is of 25 ron, and make sure to check visiting hours as programs may vary between high season (April – October) and low season (November - March). Though not as popular as Bran Castle, Corvin Castle is an important tourist attraction you should not miss on your holiday in Transylvania.

Rasnov Fortress is another popular tourist attraction for guided trips in Transylvania. Located on a hilltop in the Carpathian Mountains close to Brasov, it was built in the Middle Ages (14th century) as protection against the Turkish and Tartar invaders. Its defensive system includes nine towers, two bastions, and a drawbridge. Given the tumultuous relationship Romanians have always had with the Ottoman Empire, there are many legends connected to Rasnov fortress as well. The interior well was dug in stone by Turkish prisoners, so that the people taking shelter inside during an attack would not have to go outside.

On a guided tour in Transylvania you may also visit Fagaras Fortress. It dates all the way back to the 12th century, when it was but a wooden construction which was easily destroyed by Tartars later on. It was rebuilt in the 14th century, then enlarged and fortified in the 15th and 17th centuries. It served as the residence of Transylvanian rulers and around the 17th century it was thought to have been quite luxurious, although little evidence of this beauty was preserved. Admission fees are 20 ron and the opening hours may vary according to various seasons. Your guide will surely know when is the best time for a visit.

• Biking and cycling tours

One of the most exciting things to do on your trip in Transylvania is a charming outdoor and out-of-city experience. Guided bike tours are very popular in the region not only because you’ll get much needed exercise but also because you can spend time in a breathtaking scenery, move at will and explore villages up close.

A guided day trip in Transylvania starting from Brasov can take your through the picturesque Saxon villages of Viscri, Saschiz, and Cloasterf. And what a treat it will be. First, it’s Saschiz, home to the 14th century Fortified Church and the Peasant’s Fortress behind it, atop a hill. Accommodations and traditional meals await in these locations as villagers cannot wait to boast their local products, like fruit liquor, delicious local whine, home made cheese and cured meats.

Accommodations are also available in any of the beautifully restored guesthouses. One such location with a delicious dinner plan is in Cloasterf. Then we get to bike our way to Viscri, a village famous for having caught the eye of HRH Prince Charles. Enjoy a stress-free day and let our Transylvania tourist guides show you how to enjoy local cuisine.

Along the way, you will experience nature at its finest and see the famous countryside of Transylvania which draws so many tourists on holiday up close. Photography enthusiasts will surely capture unique moments of local life in the village and unspoiled nature. Our friendly and well-connected tour guides can even take you to the best spots at the right time in the village, so you can capture everything in the best light. Even locals are open to showing you how they live and let you photograph their daily activities.

If you prefer something shorter, a guided bike tour in the mountains around Brasov overlooking Transylvania’s plains and hills will not disappoint. Travelers based in Cluj-Napoca should consider a guided bike tour to Turda Salt Mine, one of the most popular tourist attractions in Transylvania. And if you start from Sibiu, riding the bike on Transfagarasan Road is probably the most exciting option of guided bike trips in Transylvania. This winding road with twists and turns will make for most people’s most memorable bicycle rides of their lives.

If you get tired of the two wheels, try the four-legged means of locomotion. Guided Horse riding trips are a unique way to experience Transylvania’s beauty. Forget about the fenced versions of riding a horse in circles near the stables. In the Piatra Craiului area, there are local farms and ranches what give visitors the option of discovering the beautiful mountain area on horseback. Plus, you can practice your archery skills and become a regular Robin Hood during your holiday in Transylvania!

• Go on hiking and trekking trips in Transylvania

Many expect the gloomy surroundings depicted in most movies inspired by Stoker’s horror tale, but end up in a fairy tale with enchanting forests, accessible mountain trails, and friendly people, all ready to receive tourists and share their pride for Romania’s natural beauty with them. Going on a guided hiking tour in Transylvania will be an incredible experience!

From highly accessible to those requiring mountaineering skills, there are lots of trails to choose from. If you hire a Transylvania tour guide who is licensed for hiking he will assess your physical condition correctly and propose suitable trails to explore nature in safe conditions.

One popular attraction to visit on your Transylvania day trip is Urlatoarea Waterfall which can be seen on an accessible forest trail starting from Busteni. If you plan on visiting Bran Castle, go on an easy hike up the hills to see Pestera and Magura villages for a postcard worthy view of the area. The hike is very accessible even for people travelling with young children.

A more strenuous option, but highly rewarding in natural scenery, would be any of the trails in the Piatra Craiului National Park. The Curmatura Challet trail takes about 7-8 hours for experienced hikers and offers a belvedere point at 1660 meters high and a delicious meal once you reach the chalet. But a tour guide can take you on many other trails depending on your preferences.

In the Carpathian Mountains there is so much exploring to do and nature to be seen. The best Transylvanian hiking routes are in the mountain ranges of Fagaras, Apuseni and Trascau (Western Carpathians), Calimani and Rodnei (Eastern Carpathians). The Rodnei Mountains are among the highest and least accessible. Getting a licensed mountain guide who has on-the-ground knowledge of specific mountain trails is imperative for your day trip in Transylvania’s mountains. The weather is likely to change quickly, especially in summer, and, while most trails are very popular and populated during the weekend days, an occasional bear spotting may be possible, and it is best to be accompanies by someone who knows what to do.

• Wildlife watching and tracking trips

Transylvania has rich wildlife, like nowhere else in Europe! The region is home to the largest Brown Bear population in Europe. Around 6000 bears, to be more exact. As opposed to about 40 roaming around in the Pyrenes. These bears are protected by law and the best way to see them is by taking by going on a guided bear watching tour in Transylvania.

Close to Brasov, the Libearty Bear Sanctuary hosts around 100 bears rescued from dangerous situations, living in captivity, abandoned, mistreated, or abused. They are happy here and the rescue center provides a safe environment for people to watch them.

Main tourist cities in Transylvania

The perfect mixture between urban and rural, Brasov is one of Romania’s most popular tourist destinations, for both local trips and foreigners! Brasov is probably the best base for travelers interested in guided tours in Transylvania during their holiday. Boasting some of the trendiest boutiques, hottest restaurants, quaint cafes, and cultural and historical locations in the city center, surrounded by lots of fresh air from the Carpathian Mountains, as well as water and adventure parks, Brasov checks all the boxes. There is a vast offer of hotels and apartment lodgings tourists can opt for, in the heart of the city or in the city neighborhoods, to experience the real Romanian big city way of life, old or new.

Brasov is also an excellent choice for guided day trips to visit Romania’s famous tourist attractions such as Bran Castle, Peles Castle or Sighisoara Citadel. The city is surrounded by forest trails to explore by foot or by bike. The Piatra Craiului Mountain Range is the most popular destination for hiking day trips in Transylvania starting from Brasov. It is a hiker’s paradise and famous for its sharp limestone ridge that zigzags up to heights over 2,000m.


Conveniently located in the heart of the country, Sibiu is the heart of Transylvanian lifestyle and is said to be one of the most idyllic places to live in Europe. It’s multicultural and intellectual history give the city a bohemian air. Sibiu is host to a variety of major local and international events attended both by locals as well as tourists. For example, the International Theater Festival is one of the most appreciated European events of its kind. The Jazz Festival or the Sibiu International Film Festival are other great examples of remarkable cultural programs people should take into consideration when planning a holiday in Transylvania even now after the Covid-19 pandemic.

The amazing food, the well-preserved historical buildings, the cultural events, the cobbled streets, and eclectic architecture, all make Sibiu the ideal place for a guided tour in Transylvania. There are so many things to see and do! Come for the legends, stay for the welcoming city, the amazing food, and the breathtaking natural views seen on trips outside the city.

If you want to get a glimpse of the wonderful natural scenery and village life but do not wish to stray too far away from the city and its comfort, there is the option of the Astra ethnographic museum, a faithful outdoor reproduction of the rural area of Transylvania in all its regions. Discover the differences between house architecture and see how Romanians used to live to many years ago in a unique and authentic trip. You can even eat at a restaurant set up to look just like the local inn and tavern. There are tables out on the green, with long benches for a communal eating experience.

From Sibiu you can easily reach the medieval town (and birthplace of Vlad Tepes), Sighisoara. This is probably the most popular guided day trip in Transylvania. One of Europe’s best preserved medieval fortresses and a UNESCO heritage site, Sighisoara is also inhabited so you can get a taste of castle life, as it were. There are about 164 houses in the citadel, all functional, inhabited or turned into boutique hotels and restaurants or museums, surrounded by 9 towers and 2 bastions, impressive defensive walls and up to 9 churches where people have been going to mass for hundreds of years.

On a trip to Sighisoara you will be able to see several UNESCO heritage listed sites! Nearby is the Biertan UNESCO Fortified Church, with its 4-6 meters thick walls and its Divorce Room, the place couples were locked in for two weeks in isolation with only one spoon as cutlery, before being granted the right to separate. The charming and already famous Alma Vii and Viscri Saxon villages, some of the main attractions for tourists looking for guided trips in Transylvania. During these visits you can walk and discover the architecture and sample some incredible fresh and tasty local cuisine at some of the many local gastro-stops. Your guide will know exactly where to take you for an amazing meal. Feel encouraged to talk to the locals, as they are more than willing to share in their live experience and tell you all about what it’s like to live in a village like a living museum.

Cluj-Napoca is known as the tech and youth capital of Romania. Cluj-Napoca has the 2nd biggest airport in Romania, so it is a great base to start exploring Transylvania and the country. This is the most Western-like city in Romania, with everything you need for a very comfortable trip. Lodging prices range from very affordable to extra fancy and luxurious, ready to meet the expectations of any type of traveler. With a very well connected airport, Cluj is a great place for travelers to set up base and go on day trips in Transylvania to discover the region.

The locals are very friendly and creative and there is always something going on; it has been nicknamed the ‘biggest festival in Europe’ before the Covid pandemic and we’re pretty sure it will live up to its reputation even now. As of 2021, Cluj is a City of Film (same as Cannes) and part of the UNESCO Creative Cities list. The 20 successful editions of the Transylvania Film Festival have played their part in getting the city this distinction and the event organizers are always looking to outdo themselves every year.

There is so much to do in and near Cluj - even locals from different parts of Romania plan trips to discover the area. The best way to discover the city and how it’s so representative for Transylvanian culture is to go on a guided tour. There are about 12 palaces to see inside the city alone. These grand constructions, dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries used to be the homes of great Szekely and Hungarian noblemen and tradesmen and they are not public institutions. There is the Palace of Finance, the Cluj Prefect’s Palace, the City Hall Palace, the Teleki, Berde, and Szeki palaces, to only name a few.

The Cluj museums alone will keep you busy. Covering everything from history and ethnography to nature, you can opt for any of your personal interests and see what the area had to offer in this respect. If you are planning a cultural trip, there are the History Museum, the Transylvania Ethnographic Museum, the ‘Romulus Vuia’ Ethnographic Park, the Museum for Jewish History. If nature is your passion, you can visit the Botanical Garden, the Vivarium, the Water Museum, and others. And, of course, there is the Art Museum and art galleries, along with numerous artistic events planned throughout the year. Stumbling over some of them is inevitable.

Almost all guided day trips in Transylvania starting from Cluj will include the most popular tourist attraction: Turda Salt Mine - which doubles as an underground amusement park! But do not expect some gloomy ride to the bowels of the Earth, but a luminous and lively experience. The salt mine has been renovated and decorated, hosting even a giant wheel and a saltwater lake on which you can take a boat ride. There are healthy activities to be undertaken once the tours are done and you are sure to enjoy the experience.

You could also go on a guided tour of Hoia Baciu haunted forest, which is located on the outskirts of Cluj-Napoca. This is a little something for those visiting Transylvania looking for something off-the-beaten path. The place is dubious, to say the least, with an eerie vibe and some inexplicable phenomena and vegetation, like the perfectly round shaped glade where grass does not grow and looks like it is being constantly mowed.

And once you are ready to step out of the cozy and comfortable city life in Cluj Napoca, you might be drawn by the smell of the local cuisine, a perfectly balanced mix of Romanian, Hungarian, Szekely, Armenian influences you can experience at your own pace. You can get a Transylvania tour guide to take you on a village trip to some local gastro point, and there are many and delicious, or you can plan a day trip further into Transylvania that will include Motilor Challet in Marisel, the Colt de Rai (Heaven’s Nest) in Belis, the Szekely Manor in Rimetea or many others.

Another vibrant and flourishing city to visit in the region of Transylvania (you had no idea there were so many urban options, right?) is the city of Timisoara. This is the 3rd largest city in Romania and the European Capital of Culture for 2021! Timisoara airport is well connected to the rest of the country and internationally, not to mention the fact that it is relatively close to the other cities in the region, making Transylvania day trips a breeze. It also offers quick access to hikes and nature strolls in the surrounding Carpathians, and visits to the Danube Cauldrons, a place in the neighboring Caras-Severin County.

The local architecture is a wonderful mixture between Art Nouveau, Baroque and Neoclassical styles, making sightseeing tours the delight of architecture fans. There are three main squares, packed full of restaurants, cafes and boutiques, perfect for a lazy afternoon. There is Union Square, Victory Square and the old City Center. Timisoara has always been a little more rebellious than the rest of the country and it was the starting point of communist uprising in 1989. Expect to see the many signs of the revolution throughout the city during your walks. Take a guided tour to find out more about the event that marked the city and shaped the outcome of Romanian history more than 30 years ago. If you are a history buff, make sure to visit the Revolution Museum, the Museum of the Communist Consumer, for an authentic experience.

Other options include the Roses Park, built on an initial design of 1891 for the Universal Exposition and replanted in 1934 after the soldiers of WWI used it for cavalry. A visit here will show you why Timisoara is also known as the “city of flowers”. The Art Museum hosts many important collections, the most famous of which being Corneliu Baba’s 20th century works. If you plan on seeing more museums on the same day, the Banat Museum and the Theresia Bastion are also in the city center, a stone’s throw away from the Art Museum and Union Square. Don’t worry if you get puckish or even ravenous after all this museum hopping. Some of the best restaurants in the city are right there, such as Vinto, one of the most appreciated restaurants at the moment.

A small history lesson about Transylvania

Over 2000 years ago Romania’s Dacian ancestors arrived in the South West of Transylvania and several settlements began. Their capital city was called Sarmisegetusza Dacia. In the year 105, the Dacians were conquered by the Romans (after many long battles); the long process that gave birth to Romania in the middle ages had started.

Since the Roman settlement, Transylvania has welcomed people from a wide variety of cultures. Which in turn influenced all aspects of life there; from the architecture and the cuisine to the language spoken. The region of Transylvania as we know it today was founded by a mix of Vlachs (Romanians), Hungarian Székelys and German Saxons.

Thanks to the unique blend of cultural influences in Transylvania, the cuisine you will find there is also very special. Transylvanian cuisine is slightly different than traditional Romanian food - heavy on the fat and largely focused on pork, vegetable stews and sour soups (ciorba). The best way to discover Transylvanian cuisine is through a local food tour, especially in the region around Sibiu which is know for its culinary diversity. Since Romanian cuisine is unknown to most tourists a guided tour can be very helpful for making the most of your trip to Romania.

Quick facts about Transylvania

The region is 1/3 of Romania's total surface with an area of approx. 100 square kilometers; it is actually bigger than the whole country of Austria! The population of the region is around 7 million and there are a number of important cities to consider for your trip. If you are flying straight into Transylvania your best bet is to go to Cluj-Napoca as the city is very well connected to all the important sites. Other cities with well-served international airports are Sibiu and Timisoara. You could also fly into Romania's capital, Bucharest, and drive 3 hours to Brasov or 5 hours to Sibiu via car or train.

The main language spoken in Romania is, of course, Romanian. In the Eastern part of Transylvania, in the counties of Covasna, Harghita and Miercurea Ciuc Hungarian is predominant as an enthnic hungarian minority lives there. You will also hear English spoken in the larger cities and around main tourist sites.

Main cities of Transylvania

Transylvania is actually made up of a few smaller regions: Transylvania proper includes Brasov, Sibiu, Cluj-Napoca and the Tg. Mures area, Crisana consists of the North-Western border region around Oradea, Maramures is the region up North.

Brasov is one of Romania’s most popular tourist spots, for both local trips and foreigners! Brasov is a charming, medieval city surrounded by lots of fresh air from the Carpathian Mountains. The Piatra Craiului Mountain Range is located in the Carpathian Mountains and it is ranked up there with the best. It is a hiker’s paradise and famous for its sharp limestone ridge that zig-zags up to heights over 2,000m.

Brasov is also an excellent choice for one day nature trips that don’t require much preparation or equipment. Mountain bike fans will love the forest trails, including some challenging downhill rides, with stops along the way to admire the beautiful views of the area. It is equally a great destination for winter sports lovers; Poiana Brasov nearby is considered the best ski resort in Romania.
Sibiu, heart of the Transylvanian lifestyle, is said to be one of the most idyllic places to live in Europe. It’s multicultural and intellectual history give the city a bohemian air. Sibiu is host to a variety of major local and international events. For example the International Theater Festival, Jazz Festival or Sibiu International Film Festival. The cities welcoming people, cobbled streets and schedule of events make it a hit and Romania trip highlight for many. There are so many things to see and do!

From Sibiu you can easily reach the medieval town (and birthplace of Vlad Tepes), Sighisoara. On a trip to Sighisoara you will be able to see several UNESCO heritage listed sites! Sighisoara Citadel is Europe's best preserved and still inhabited medieval fortress, nearby is the Biertan UNESCO Fortified Church and also the charming Alma Vii village.

Cluj-Napoca is known as the tech and youth capital of Romania. The locals are very friendly and creative and there is always something going on; it has been nicknamed the ‘biggest festival in Europe’. Cluj-Napoca has the 2nd biggest airport in Romania so it is a great base to start exploring Transylvania and the country. There are a huge number of guided tours that you can do nearby so tourists can easily spend 10 days and not run out of things to do in the area. The most popular tourist attraction in Cluj county is the Turda Salt Mine, which doubles as an underground amusement park! You could also go on a guided tour of the Hoia Baciu haunted forest, which is located on the outskirts of Cluj-Napoca.

Timisoara is the 3rd largest city in Romania and the European Capital of Culture for 2021! Timisoara has always been a little more rebellious than the rest of the country and it was the starting point of communist uprising in 1989. Timisoara airport is well connected and the city is close to the Danube River, the Carpathians and many more things to do in the area.

Top Things to do in Transylvania

• Visit Medieval Castles and Fortresses

Bran Castle is one of the most famous castles in Europe, mostly because of its association with Bram Stoker’s Dracula. It is situated just 30 km from Brasov and erected over a high peak. Corvin or Hunyady Castle is another; it looks like something out of a fairytale and represents Gothic art in Transylvania. The castle has a majestic drawbridge, over 40 rooms, high thick walls and red towers.

Rasnov Fortress is located on a hilltop in the Carpathian Mountains. It was built in the middle ages as protection against the Turkish and Tartar invaders. There is also Fagaras Fortress, which initially served as the residence of Transylvanian rulers and is an important political centre.

• Biking and cycling tours

Hit the trails with a Carpathian Mountains biking tour from Brasov. You will experience nature at its finest and maybe even stumble across some Brown Bears on your trip. If you prefer something shorter, the bike tour to the viewpoint in Brasov will not disappoint. For those travellers who start in Cluj-Napoca; cycling tours to the Turda Salt Mine are very popular.

• Hiking and trekking trips

Transylvania is an incredible destination for hiking and trekking tours. In the Carpathian Mountains there is so much exploring to do and nature to be seen. When hiking in Transylvania make sure to go with a licensed mountain guide who has on-the-ground knowledge of specific mountain trails. The best Transylvanian hiking routes are in the mountain ranges of Fagaras, Apuseni and Trascau (Western Carpathians), Calimani and Rodnei (Eastern Carpathians).

• Wildlife watching and tracking trips

Transylvania has rich wildlife, like nowhere else in Europe! The region is home to the largest Brown Bear population in Europe. These bears are protected by law and the best way to see them is by taking by going on a guided bear watching tour in Brasov. It might be quite hard to spot one otherwise, and bear spotting is not the best thing to do by yourself.

• Ski and winter sports tours

Poiana Brasov, in Transylvania, is the most popular ski resort in Romania, and for good reason. It is only 12 kilometres from Brasov so convenient as a day or short trip. The ski village boasts the longest slopes in Romania! Poiana Brasov is also the most expensive option for skiing in Romania; you will find there many 4-5* hotels and fine dining restaurants.