20 Can't Miss Castles of Romania
Romania is home to numerous castles, palaces, and fortresses, spanning nearly 1000 years - or more! - of the land's history, occupied since the era of the Roman Empire. Some have been well maintained, refurbished, and turned into museums. Some are ruins of civilizations long passed.
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20 Places • 6 Saves • ago
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Corvin Castle - Castelul Corvinilor
@amyisgoingplaces
Dating back to the early 1400's, Corvin Castle began, like many castles, as a military fortress. It was transformed through renovations by Ioan de Hunedoara in the 1440's. The castle's structure, while refurbished over the years, has remained largely the same since Ioan de Hunedoara's time.
Walking through the castle is surreal. So much of it is original, including many, many stone stairs worn smooth by centuries of footfalls. It's not hard to imagine back to those ancient times, the people who lived here, and what their lives might have been like.
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Bran Castle
@amyisgoingplaces
Constructed in 1377, Bran Castle is more famously known as Dracula's Castle, due largely to the lore created by Bram Stoker and, more recently, the animated Hotel Transylvania movie trilogy.
What I personally enjoyed about Bran Castle was how the castle-turned-museum explains the real history of the structure and the historical figure of Vlad Țepeș (a.k.a. Vlad Dracula, or Vlad the Impaler) and how the man and the castle become legend.
Bran Castle is typically open daily year round. They host seasonal special events, particularly around (you guessed it) October for Halloween. Check their website for details on hours and events prior to planning your visit.
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Peleș Castle
@amyisgoingplaces
The summer residence for Romania's former monarchy, Peleș Castle is located in the Bucegi Mountains of Sinai, Romania. It is considered one of the most beautiful and unique castles in Europe.
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Pelișor Castle
@amyisgoingplaces
On the grounds of the magnificent Peleș Castle is the smaller (as castles go) royal residence of Pelișor Castle.
Built between 1899 and 1902, Pelișor was a residence for the Royal Heirs to the throne of Romania, Prince Ferdinand and Princess Marie.
The architectural style is a blend of German Neo-Renaissance, Neo-Romanian, and Art Nouveau. Princess Marie herself dictated the interior design style, revealing her "romantic, mysterious personality."
Tickets to Pelișor can be bought separately or combined with ticket purchase for Peleș Castle.
Check the official site for the Peleș complex for up to date hours, prices, and ticket purchases.
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Brașov Fortress - Cetățuia de pe Strajă
@amyisgoingplaces
Brașov's citadel, overlooking the oldest part of the city still partially encircled by medieval era walls, dates from the 1400's.
Over the centuries, it was expanded from an original wooden structure to be a larger defensive complex. When no longer needed as a fortress, the structure was used as a warehouse, barracks, prison, and restaurant.
For many years, the fortress was privately owned and the interior was inaccessible to visitors. As of September 2023, the fortress has been returned to the City of Brașov.
The city aspires to restore the fortress and establish it as a destination for tourism and events.
In the meantime, the fortress exterior remains accessible by a footpath and (partially) by a road. It's worth the hike up for views of Centrul Veche, especially at sunset.
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Cantacuzino Castle
@amyisgoingplaces
Cantacuzino Castle was built in Busteni as one of 3 palaces commissioned by Prince Gheorghe Grigore Cantacuzino. (The other two are in Bucharest and Floresti.) The architectural style is Neo-Romanian, and construction was completed in 1911.
The castle is now a museum, an art exhibition and performance venue, an special event space, and a filming location.
Check the castle website prior to planning your visit to see what exhibits are currently on display, what events are happening, and the current hours and ticketing prices.
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Details
Neamț Citadel
@amyisgoingplaces
Constructed in the late 1300's by Peter the First of Moldavia, Neamț Citadel was part of a larger defense system throughout what is now the northern part of Romania. It was in use through the early 1700's.
Attempts were made to convert the fortress ruins into a historic site in 1940 but halted due to the outbreak of World War II. In 2009, the citadel was finally opened as a museum complex and historical site.
Visitors to the citadel can now see such restored spaces as the Council and Judgment Hall, the Chamber of Secrets, the Black Dungeon, and the Chapel of St. Nicholas.
The citadel is regularly open year round Tuesday-Sunday. Check their website for specific events, hours, and ticket prices prior to planning your visit.
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Jean Mihail Palace
@amyisgoingplaces
Who says you have to be a monarch to have a palace? Jean Mihail was not part of Romanian's royal family. However, the title he held in his lifetime remains untouched today: richest man in the history of Romania.
Jean Mihail owned several estates, including the Palace in Craiova. A philanthropist throughout his life, his wishes were for his wealth to be used for the public good upon his passing, specifically allocating funds for projects such as village libraries, church repairs, hospitals, education improvements, and incentives for students to stay in school and complete their education.
In 1954, the palace was converted to the Craiova Art Museum. one can't help but think this would've pleased the late Jean Mihail. The museum currently boasts a collection of more than 8,000 works of art from Romania and greater Europe.
The museum is regularly open daily. Check the museum website and Facebook page for current hours, events, and ticket prices prior to planning your visit.
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Săvârșin Royal Residence
@amyisgoingplaces
Romania has had a varied past when it comes to political styles and governance. While the current government is a parliamentarian democracy, Romania was once a monarchy. The royal family remains a part of Romania's story, and the family estate in Săvârșin is open to visitors.
You can see the beautiful, peaceful gardens, the main house, and a museum of cars owned by the royal family.
The grounds also have a cafe where you can stop for a coffee or lunch during your visit.
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Cetatea Râșnov
@amyisgoingplaces
The Râșnov Fortress is undergoing renovations. While work is being conducted, the gardens of the fortress are free to visit.
The fortress can be accessed on foot or by taking the incline lift, which operates Thursday - Sunday from 9:00am-5:00pm year round.
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Rupea Fortress
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Sturdza Palace
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Bogdan Petriceicu Hasdeu Memorial Museum
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Cetatea Făgărașului
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Bánffy Castle
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Castelul Bethlen-Haller
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Palace of Culture
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Museum of the Palace of the Parliament
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Castle of Huniade
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Brukenthal Palace
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Want more?
More Romania!
This guide for Corvin Castle, includes how to get there, local restaurants, lodging, and additional attractions in the area - enough to fill 1-3 days.
Be transported to times of medieval lore at Corvin Castle in Transylvania. One of Romania's most majestic castles, its history dates back over 600 years to the Hungarian empire.
I'll tell you how to get to the castle, show you additional sites around town, and of course introduce you to some good coffee and food! Extend your stay in boutique lodging with a view of the castle.
If you enjoy this guide, please save it, share it, leave a tip, or give a review! Follow me and be the first to know when I create new guides. Thanks!
Solo Female • Families • 50+ • Couples • Groups • Family • Female Solo • History • Boutique • Foodie • Architecture • People & Culture • Slow Travel • Photography • Coffee
$9.95
Brasov is a great central hub for your Romania trip! Peles Castle, Rasnov Fortress, and Bran (Dracula's) Castle are easy day trips from this charming Old European town.
Your complete start-to-finish itinerary to make the most of a one day trip Brașov, Romania: 19 places including meals, natural and historical sightseeing, souvenir shopping, a variety of lodging choices, and transportation recommendations.
If you enjoy this guide, please save it, share it, leave a tip, or write a review! Follow me and be the first to know when I create new guides. Thanks!
Female Solo • Backpacker • Car-free • Couples • Digital Nomads • Family • 50+ • Groups • Architecture • Art • Foodie • History • Faith • People & Culture • Slow Travel • Photography • Coffee • Relaxation • Mountain • Boutique
$9.95
5.0
(1)
Help!
Planning a trip can feel overwhelming. I'd love to help!
If you're not sure where to start, schedule a Consultation Call with me. We'll go over questions you have and tips I can share to make your next adventure your best one yet!
If you have a general idea of where you'd like to go and when, but planning what to do day by day seems like A LOT of work, let me handle that for you with Custom Trip Itineraries.
And if you're more of a figure-it-out-as-you-go kind of traveler, I can provide you with Curated Recommendations suited to your interests and travel style.
Let's get started!
Considering a solo travel adventure? Not sure where to begin? I'll pull from my 14 years of international travel experience to help you plan your trip.
Let's talk details! I'd love to help you prepare for your next adventure. Choose the option below that's best for you.
Solo Female • Female Solo • Groups • Car-free • Couples • Family • Digital Nomads • Architecture • Art • Budget • Foodie • History • Faith • Slow Travel • Coffee • People & Culture • Boutique • Road Trip • Photography
Free
If you enjoyed this guide, please save it, share it, leave a tip, or write a review!
Follow me and be the first to know when I create new guides. Thanks!
* * *
CURATED BY
US native. Former resident of Romania. Current solo female globe trotter.
I've now traveled to Romania, Italy, England, Scotland, Wales, Canada, The Netherlands, South Africa, Greece, Israel, and numerous places around the USA. I've done group tours, volunteer work, solo travel, studied abroad, and taught internationally. I lived for over a year in Romania, many years in Tennessee, and several months in England.
My travel style is slow, spontaneous, and - shall we say - richly flavorful. I prefer to stay longer lengths in places instead of having a whirlwind sightseeing venture. I'll skip the chain restaurants for a hole-in-the-wall café any day of the week. I prefer a loose itinerary and remain open to what each day brings.
My favorite things to do and see as I travel are...
- EAT -
Try whatever is local. Order the special of the day. Talk with the restaurant staff.
- WALK -
It encourages me to slow down, notice, and get a feel for community.
- HIKE -
I'm a lazy hiker. By "hike," I mean a few hours at a slow pace.
- MUSEUMS -
Spend an afternoon. Read the descriptions on exhibits. Talk with the docents. Buy something in the giftshop.
- CHURCHES -
I'm fascinated by the various ways people have worshipped the God of the Bible over centuries and across borders. Many older churches are also museums or tourist-friendly spaces. Some additionally hold regular liturgical services.
- CASTLES -
Castles, fortresses, palaces, big ol' houses: these places transport me back in time. I imagine the people who built, lived in, and defended them. What would they think of how we now live?
If this kind of travel sounds ideal to you, follow me to easily access all the resources I've created. I'd love to help you experience slower, more meaningful travel. I have tips for how to make the most of your trip, with low stress, reasonable safety, affordability, and lots of fun. Book one of my custom services, and we'll work together to get you wheels up on your next adventure!
PERSONALIZED TRAVEl SERVICES
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Read more about places in this guide
20 Can't Miss Castles of Romania
Romania is home to numerous castles, palaces, and fortresses, spanning nearly 1000 years - or more! - of the land's history, occupied since the era of the Roman Empire. Some have been well maintained, refurbished, and turned into museums. Some are ruins of civilizations long passed.
If you enjoy this free guide, please save it, share it, leave a tip, or write a review! Follow me and be the first to know when I create new guides. Thanks!
20 Places • 6 Saves • ago
Free
Corvin Castle - Castelul Corvinilor
@amyisgoingplaces
Dating back to the early 1400's, Corvin Castle began, like many castles, as a military fortress. It was transformed through renovations by Ioan de Hunedoara in the 1440's. The castle's structure, while refurbished over the years, has remained largely the same since Ioan de Hunedoara's time.
Walking through the castle is surreal. So much of it is original, including many, many stone stairs worn smooth by centuries of footfalls. It's not hard to imagine back to those ancient times, the people who lived here, and what their lives might have been like.
Add to
Details
Bran Castle
@amyisgoingplaces
Constructed in 1377, Bran Castle is more famously known as Dracula's Castle, due largely to the lore created by Bram Stoker and, more recently, the animated Hotel Transylvania movie trilogy.
What I personally enjoyed about Bran Castle was how the castle-turned-museum explains the real history of the structure and the historical figure of Vlad Țepeș (a.k.a. Vlad Dracula, or Vlad the Impaler) and how the man and the castle become legend.
Bran Castle is typically open daily year round. They host seasonal special events, particularly around (you guessed it) October for Halloween. Check their website for details on hours and events prior to planning your visit.
Add to
Details
Peleș Castle
@amyisgoingplaces
The summer residence for Romania's former monarchy, Peleș Castle is located in the Bucegi Mountains of Sinai, Romania. It is considered one of the most beautiful and unique castles in Europe.
Add to
Details
Pelișor Castle
@amyisgoingplaces
On the grounds of the magnificent Peleș Castle is the smaller (as castles go) royal residence of Pelișor Castle.
Built between 1899 and 1902, Pelișor was a residence for the Royal Heirs to the throne of Romania, Prince Ferdinand and Princess Marie.
The architectural style is a blend of German Neo-Renaissance, Neo-Romanian, and Art Nouveau. Princess Marie herself dictated the interior design style, revealing her "romantic, mysterious personality."
Tickets to Pelișor can be bought separately or combined with ticket purchase for Peleș Castle.
Check the official site for the Peleș complex for up to date hours, prices, and ticket purchases.
Add to
Details
Brașov Fortress - Cetățuia de pe Strajă
@amyisgoingplaces
Brașov's citadel, overlooking the oldest part of the city still partially encircled by medieval era walls, dates from the 1400's.
Over the centuries, it was expanded from an original wooden structure to be a larger defensive complex. When no longer needed as a fortress, the structure was used as a warehouse, barracks, prison, and restaurant.
For many years, the fortress was privately owned and the interior was inaccessible to visitors. As of September 2023, the fortress has been returned to the City of Brașov.
The city aspires to restore the fortress and establish it as a destination for tourism and events.
In the meantime, the fortress exterior remains accessible by a footpath and (partially) by a road. It's worth the hike up for views of Centrul Veche, especially at sunset.
Add to
Details
Cantacuzino Castle
@amyisgoingplaces
Cantacuzino Castle was built in Busteni as one of 3 palaces commissioned by Prince Gheorghe Grigore Cantacuzino. (The other two are in Bucharest and Floresti.) The architectural style is Neo-Romanian, and construction was completed in 1911.
The castle is now a museum, an art exhibition and performance venue, an special event space, and a filming location.
Check the castle website prior to planning your visit to see what exhibits are currently on display, what events are happening, and the current hours and ticketing prices.
Add to
Details
Neamț Citadel
@amyisgoingplaces
Constructed in the late 1300's by Peter the First of Moldavia, Neamț Citadel was part of a larger defense system throughout what is now the northern part of Romania. It was in use through the early 1700's.
Attempts were made to convert the fortress ruins into a historic site in 1940 but halted due to the outbreak of World War II. In 2009, the citadel was finally opened as a museum complex and historical site.
Visitors to the citadel can now see such restored spaces as the Council and Judgment Hall, the Chamber of Secrets, the Black Dungeon, and the Chapel of St. Nicholas.
The citadel is regularly open year round Tuesday-Sunday. Check their website for specific events, hours, and ticket prices prior to planning your visit.
Add to
Details
Jean Mihail Palace
@amyisgoingplaces
Who says you have to be a monarch to have a palace? Jean Mihail was not part of Romanian's royal family. However, the title he held in his lifetime remains untouched today: richest man in the history of Romania.
Jean Mihail owned several estates, including the Palace in Craiova. A philanthropist throughout his life, his wishes were for his wealth to be used for the public good upon his passing, specifically allocating funds for projects such as village libraries, church repairs, hospitals, education improvements, and incentives for students to stay in school and complete their education.
In 1954, the palace was converted to the Craiova Art Museum. one can't help but think this would've pleased the late Jean Mihail. The museum currently boasts a collection of more than 8,000 works of art from Romania and greater Europe.
The museum is regularly open daily. Check the museum website and Facebook page for current hours, events, and ticket prices prior to planning your visit.
Add to
Details
Săvârșin Royal Residence
@amyisgoingplaces
Romania has had a varied past when it comes to political styles and governance. While the current government is a parliamentarian democracy, Romania was once a monarchy. The royal family remains a part of Romania's story, and the family estate in Săvârșin is open to visitors.
You can see the beautiful, peaceful gardens, the main house, and a museum of cars owned by the royal family.
The grounds also have a cafe where you can stop for a coffee or lunch during your visit.
Add to
Details
Cetatea Râșnov
@amyisgoingplaces
The Râșnov Fortress is undergoing renovations. While work is being conducted, the gardens of the fortress are free to visit.
The fortress can be accessed on foot or by taking the incline lift, which operates Thursday - Sunday from 9:00am-5:00pm year round.
Add to
Details
Rupea Fortress
@amyisgoingplaces
Add to
Details
Sturdza Palace
@amyisgoingplaces
Add to
Details
Bogdan Petriceicu Hasdeu Memorial Museum
@amyisgoingplaces
Add to
Details
Cetatea Făgărașului
@amyisgoingplaces
Add to
Details
Bánffy Castle
@amyisgoingplaces
Add to
Details
Castelul Bethlen-Haller
@amyisgoingplaces
Add to
Details
Palace of Culture
@amyisgoingplaces
Add to
Details
Museum of the Palace of the Parliament
@amyisgoingplaces
Add to
Details
Castle of Huniade
@amyisgoingplaces
Add to
Details
Brukenthal Palace
@amyisgoingplaces
Add to
Details
Want more?
More Romania!
This guide for Corvin Castle, includes how to get there, local restaurants, lodging, and additional attractions in the area - enough to fill 1-3 days.
Be transported to times of medieval lore at Corvin Castle in Transylvania. One of Romania's most majestic castles, its history dates back over 600 years to the Hungarian empire.
I'll tell you how to get to the castle, show you additional sites around town, and of course introduce you to some good coffee and food! Extend your stay in boutique lodging with a view of the castle.
If you enjoy this guide, please save it, share it, leave a tip, or give a review! Follow me and be the first to know when I create new guides. Thanks!
Solo Female • Families • 50+ • Couples • Groups • Family • Female Solo • History • Boutique • Foodie • Architecture • People & Culture • Slow Travel • Photography • Coffee
$9.95
Brasov is a great central hub for your Romania trip! Peles Castle, Rasnov Fortress, and Bran (Dracula's) Castle are easy day trips from this charming Old European town.
Your complete start-to-finish itinerary to make the most of a one day trip Brașov, Romania: 19 places including meals, natural and historical sightseeing, souvenir shopping, a variety of lodging choices, and transportation recommendations.
If you enjoy this guide, please save it, share it, leave a tip, or write a review! Follow me and be the first to know when I create new guides. Thanks!
Female Solo • Backpacker • Car-free • Couples • Digital Nomads • Family • 50+ • Groups • Architecture • Art • Foodie • History • Faith • People & Culture • Slow Travel • Photography • Coffee • Relaxation • Mountain • Boutique
$9.95
5.0
(1)
Help!
Planning a trip can feel overwhelming. I'd love to help!
If you're not sure where to start, schedule a Consultation Call with me. We'll go over questions you have and tips I can share to make your next adventure your best one yet!
If you have a general idea of where you'd like to go and when, but planning what to do day by day seems like A LOT of work, let me handle that for you with Custom Trip Itineraries.
And if you're more of a figure-it-out-as-you-go kind of traveler, I can provide you with Curated Recommendations suited to your interests and travel style.
Let's get started!
Considering a solo travel adventure? Not sure where to begin? I'll pull from my 14 years of international travel experience to help you plan your trip.
Let's talk details! I'd love to help you prepare for your next adventure. Choose the option below that's best for you.
Solo Female • Female Solo • Groups • Car-free • Couples • Family • Digital Nomads • Architecture • Art • Budget • Foodie • History • Faith • Slow Travel • Coffee • People & Culture • Boutique • Road Trip • Photography
Free
If you enjoyed this guide, please save it, share it, leave a tip, or write a review!
Follow me and be the first to know when I create new guides. Thanks!
* * *
CURATED BY
US native. Former resident of Romania. Current solo female globe trotter.
I've now traveled to Romania, Italy, England, Scotland, Wales, Canada, The Netherlands, South Africa, Greece, Israel, and numerous places around the USA. I've done group tours, volunteer work, solo travel, studied abroad, and taught internationally. I lived for over a year in Romania, many years in Tennessee, and several months in England.
My travel style is slow, spontaneous, and - shall we say - richly flavorful. I prefer to stay longer lengths in places instead of having a whirlwind sightseeing venture. I'll skip the chain restaurants for a hole-in-the-wall café any day of the week. I prefer a loose itinerary and remain open to what each day brings.
My favorite things to do and see as I travel are...
- EAT -
Try whatever is local. Order the special of the day. Talk with the restaurant staff.
- WALK -
It encourages me to slow down, notice, and get a feel for community.
- HIKE -
I'm a lazy hiker. By "hike," I mean a few hours at a slow pace.
- MUSEUMS -
Spend an afternoon. Read the descriptions on exhibits. Talk with the docents. Buy something in the giftshop.
- CHURCHES -
I'm fascinated by the various ways people have worshipped the God of the Bible over centuries and across borders. Many older churches are also museums or tourist-friendly spaces. Some additionally hold regular liturgical services.
- CASTLES -
Castles, fortresses, palaces, big ol' houses: these places transport me back in time. I imagine the people who built, lived in, and defended them. What would they think of how we now live?
If this kind of travel sounds ideal to you, follow me to easily access all the resources I've created. I'd love to help you experience slower, more meaningful travel. I have tips for how to make the most of your trip, with low stress, reasonable safety, affordability, and lots of fun. Book one of my custom services, and we'll work together to get you wheels up on your next adventure!
PERSONALIZED TRAVEl SERVICES
Connect
with
a
local
expert
to
help
plan
your
ideal
trip
Send A Tip
Support Amy Is Going Places’s work.
Select your tip amount
$5
$10
$20
$50
Or type in other amount
Read more about places in this guide