Top Romania Pop Culture - page 2

Vlad III, the Prince of Wallachia, was born sometime between 1428 and 1431, probably in Sighişaora, Transylvania. His patronymic, ‘Dracul’, means Dragon, derived from the membership of his father, Vlad II Dracul, in the Order of the Dragon, an order of chivalry for the defence of Christianity in Eastern Europe against the Ottomans, so the young Vlad became known as Dracula, or “son of Dragon”. The exact date, cause, and location of Vlad’s death is unknown, but is believed to have taken place between October and December 1476, when he disappeared in battle. It is known, however, that his head was taken to Constantinople as a trophy. His daughter Maria was meanwhile brought to the Neapolitan court, whose ruling family was allied with her own family, where she was adopted and eventually married to a Neapolitan nobleman.

Explore Transylvania’s castles and historic sites on a private tour that’s tailored to your interests—a personalized alternative to group tours with fixed itineraries. After visiting Peles Castle and Bran Castle (aka Dracula’s Castle), choose the last stop yourself, whether that's the impressive Rasnov Fortress or the hiking paths through the mountains at Poiana Brasov. Admission tickets are your own expense so you can pick what’s important to you.

If you love a good ghost story but don’t want to get swept away with a crowded tour group where it’s hard to hear your guide, opt for this Bucharest Ghost Hunt Exploration Game Experience. This interactive game is played on an app with no time limits and with the people of your choice. Plus, you’ll solve clues that take you to new stops throughout the city to hear spooky tales.

Boasting over 6,000 years of viticulture, Romania is one of Europe’s oldest wine hubs. But most travelers overlook the region’s tastiest legacy. During this wine-tasting, you’ll discover Romania’s standout reds, rosés, and whites—all from the comfort of Bucharest. In an authentic winery, listen to legends of Romanian vineyards and the stories surrounding wine production. You’ll also have a chance to taste wines from around the world, with over 100 labels on the menu.

If you’re wanting to see Dracula’s Castle (Bran Castle) and Peles Castle while in Romania, but don’t want to think about all the details like driving in a new place, then book this full-day tour that provides round-trip transport from Bucharest. Although, admission tickets to each castle must be purchased separately onsite, enjoy ample time at both large attractions before moving on to Brasov for an included city walking tour and free time.

Join Bucharest’s thriving nightlife scene with a group pub crawl that takes you to several of Old Town's most exciting bars and clubs. Meet other travelers and learn to party like a Romanian while a friendly guide handpicks the venues and arranges all the details to ensure a safe and memorable night out. Enjoy a welcome drink at each bar plus a few fun surprises along the way like karaoke or bar games, and capture every crazy moment with the help of your guide’s photography skills.

Step into the heart of Romania's capital on a journey that transcends mere sightseeing. This tour is meticulously designed to peel back the layers of Bucharest, revealing the resilient character and unique cultural traits of a nation shaped by a tumultuous past. Alongside an expert local guide, you will trace Romania’s evolution from its ancient roots to its modern state. The route moves beyond the usual tourist areas into a quieter, historically significant neighborhood, where Bucharest’s local identity is most visible, especially through its Neo-Romanian architecture. Complete your experience by diving into the local lifestyle with a yummy, traditional two-course meal, ensuring you taste the true flavors of our heritage.

Trace the rise and fall of Communism in Romania on this walking tour of Bucharest. Learn how the Communist Party and the dictator Ceausescu seized power, controlled dissent and demolished huge swaths of the city to create distinctive architectural monuments. Visit political memorials and Communist-era landmarks to see how the regime and subsequent 1989 revolution have left a permanent mark on the city.

Exploring Transylvania’s historic castles is difficult if you don't have your own wheels, but this private day trip from Bucharest makes it easy to check off many monuments in just one day. Follow your guide through mysterious corridors, up spooky stairwells, and into potentially haunted rooms. Along the way, you’ll learn the real stories behind these mythical buildings. See Bran Castle, where the legend of Dracula still lingers, Peles Castle in Sinaia, set in the Carpathian Mountains, and take a walking tour of Brasov.

An excellent choice for time-tight travelers visiting Brasov, this tour helps you to tick off the Transfagarasan highway and Bran Castle on the same day. Along the way, the driver stops at scenic nature spots such as Balea lake—where you can go for a walk, purchase lunch, or visit small shops. A highlight is a stop at Bran Castle where a guide accompanies you around the gardens and interiors.

Uncover Bucharest’s Jewish heritage on this city tour, calling at landmarks such as the Jewish Quarter and Holocaust Memorial to learn more about the lived experiences of Bucharest’s Jewish population over the last centuries. Hear personalized insights from your private guide and benefit from dedicated time to explore each site, with round-trip transfers via private vehicle included.

See a different side of Bucharest by signing up for this alternative tour of the city, which focuses on the city's thriving street art scene. You'll learn all about the history of street art in Bucharest as you make your way through town while familiarizing yourself with Romania’s capital city.

Discover the true history of Vlad the Impaler on a captivating tour of the real fortress, royal courts, and sanctuaries where the real Dracula lived, ruled, and was laid to rest. Poenari Fortress: Conquer the authentic "Castle Dracula," an eagle’s nest perched high on a cliff in the Carpathian Mountains. Climb the 1,400+ steps through the forest to explore the rugged ruins Vlad forced his enemies to build, offering spectacular mountain views.... Next is: Târgoviște Princely Court: Explore the medieval capital where Vlad managed his fierce campaigns and executed his notorious justice. Climb the iconic Chindia Tower, built by Vlad as a military watchtower, for a panoramic view of the palace ruins and the royal church..... After we visit: Snagov Monastery: End the tour at a peaceful island sanctuary on Lake Snagov. Inside this 14th-century church lies the grave of Vlad the Impaler, where monks secretly buried his headless body after his assassination in 1476.

Transylvania is home to some of Romania’s top sights, but getting around on your own can be a hassle. Save hours with this driving tour, giving you enough time to take in three highlights in a single day. Begin with a guided tour of the brown bear sanctuary in Zarnesti before moving on to Bran Castle, where the legend of Dracula began. End with a stop at Peles Castle, said to be one of the most beautiful in the world.

We begin our journey by descending 200 meters into the heart of the earth at the largest Salt Mine in Europe. This is an underground cathedral of salt covering 8 hectares — the equivalent of 16 football pitches, with chambers reach heights of over 50 meters. The landscape feels like another planet. After resurfacing, we head to the rolling hills of wine region for a gourmet lunch at a restaurant that formerly served as Nicolae Ceaușescu’s private hunting lodge. This location offers a glimpse into the exclusive lifestyle of Romania’s former communist leader. Our final chapter takes us to the serene waters of Snagov Lake. A short bridge crossing brings us to a hidden island monastery with a dark reputation. Within the walls of this 15th-century church lies the Tomb of Vlad the Impaler, the ruthless voivode who inspired the legend of Dracula. Explore the frescoes and hear the tales of the real Vlad Tepes—a national hero to some, and a bloodthirsty tyrant to others.

Transylvania harbours a rich and enigmatic history that is most evident in its castles. Travel between Bran Castle (Dracula’s Castle), Peles Castle, and Rasnov Fortress with ease on a stress-free tour of Transylvania. By letting your guide drive, you’ll spend less time focusing on the road and more time admiring the spectacular scenery between each landmark. Plus, you’ll forgo the hassle of navigation and avoid getting lost on the winding roads of Romania.

Discover Transylvania's history, flavors, and wildlife on a small-group day tour from Brasov. An extensive and varied itinerary makes this excursion ideal for history buffs, foodies, and animal lovers alike. The experience begins with guided tours inside Brasov Castle (Dracula's Castle) and Rasnov Citadel. Later, enjoy a tasting and behind-the-scenes look at a Palinca distillery. Round out your Romanian adventure at Libearty Bear Sanctuary Zarnesti.

Escape the city for the rolling mountains and storybook castles of Transylvania on this full-day tour from Bucharest. Learn the legend of Count Dracula at Bran Castle, see the summer palace of Romania’s royal family at Peles Castle, and visit the city of Brasov, known for its mountain views and medieval architecture.

Cover the top sights in Transylvania in 48 hours without the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads or coordinating public transit with this private tour. Set off from Bucharest to take in the top castles and medieval cities on the first day. After overnighting in Sighisoara (own expense), visit the walled citadel of Sibiu before returning to Bucharest in the late afternoon.

While other tourists visit the iconic Bran Castle, you can see where the real Dracula is buried during this private tour from Bucharest. Vlad the Impaler’s tomb is located just outside the city in the Snagov Monastery. Your English-speaking tour guide will take you to this lakeside location before transporting you to Mogosoaia Palace. This 300 year-old monument has vast gardens and celebrates Southern Romania’s history. Please note that admission tickets to each site are not included in the price.

Discover Transylvania's spooky charm on a 3-day group tour featuring two Halloween parties. Begin in Bucharest and journey to the medieval Saxon citadel of Sighisoara, Vlad the Impaler's birthplace. That night, revel in a Romanian dinner and Halloween festivities. On Day 2, head to Bran Castle in Brasov for another thrilling night tour and party. Conclude with a visit to Peles Castle. With transportation, food, and accommodation included, this tour promises a captivating and stress-free experience.

Without a hire car, exploring Transylvania’s castles and medieval treasures in a day from Bucharest is near-impossible. This full-day private tour takes you into this myth-laden region with a guide for historical insight, giving the scenery and sites added resonance. Visit Peles Castle, take a guided walk in fortified Brasov, and explore Bran Castle, often known as Dracula’s Castle, all with skip-the-line entry, parking, and driving taken care of.

Discover Transylvania's flora, fauna, and history on a private day tour from Brasov. Begin your adventure with a visit to the Libearty Bear Sanctuary Zarnesti and observe rescued bears in a natural habitat. Then, delve into the history and legends of Bran Castle, nicknamed Dracula Castle. Finally, enjoy a stroll and unwind at picturesque Poiana Brasov, a popular resort that boasts mountain trails, horseback riding, and dining options.

Take the guesswork out of finding ground transportation when you arrive at Bucharest International Airport (OTP) with this private transfer service. After retrieving your luggage, meet your driver in the arrivals hall or at your hotel, then enjoy a smooth ride to your accommodation anywhere in Bucharest. This transfer is also available in the reverse direction.