Nestled in the heart of Transylvania, Sibiu is a city that feels like stepping into a storybook. I first visited in 2023 and only stayed for a day but was eager to come back on my 2024 Wanderlust Group Trip to Romania.

Known as the “City of Eyes,” it captivates visitors with its medieval charm, cobblestone streets, and colorful baroque facades. What makes Sibiu truly unique, though, are its eerie yet captivating “eyes”—windows on the rooftops of old houses, shaped like half-opened eyelids, giving the impression that the city is always watching.

These architectural quirks are a reminder of a time when residents used such designs to keep attics cool while keeping a symbolic “watch” over the city.

Beyond the architectural intrigue, Sibiu boasts an irresistible mix of history, culture, and vibrant modern life. Start your day at Piata Mare, the main square, where you’ll be surrounded by cafes, shops, and the imposing Council Tower offering panoramic views over the red-tiled rooftops and distant Carpathians.

From there, stroll across the iconic Bridge of Lies, rumored to collapse if anyone tells a fib while standing on it!

Sibiu’s blend of old-world allure and contemporary arts scene make it a must-visit for any traveler seeking something off the beaten path. With festivals, charming streets, and the ever-watchful “eyes” around every corner, this is a city that promises both mystery and delight. I’m absolutely in love with Sibiu and surprised more people don’t visit!

The post Sibiu, Romania: The Enchanting City of Eyes appeared first on The Wanderlust Rose.

It was another amazing sold-out Halloween trip around Transylvania, Romania! We partied at Dracula’s Castle (Bran Castle), visited the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler (the inspiration for Dracula), and toured many beautiful medieval villages.

Romania is one of my favorite European destinations and this trip did not disappoint! Scroll through the photos below to see our Halloween costumes and trip memories!

Follow Wanderlust Group Trips on Instagram for future trip updates!

The post Romania: Halloween in Dracula’s Castle 2025 with Wanderlust Group Trips appeared first on The Wanderlust Rose.

There’s a reason Bucharest was once called “Micul Paris” — the Little Paris of the East.
Between the grand 19th-century architecture, romantic balconies, and lively café culture, this city was once the glamorous heart of Eastern Europe. Walk its wide boulevards today and you’ll still catch glimpses of that golden age — but also traces of its darker, communist past and its thriving modern revival.

Bucharest is a city of contrasts: elegant yet gritty, nostalgic yet forward-looking, historical yet buzzing with nightlife. It’s one of those places that surprises you the more you explore.

I have fallen in love with not only Bucharest but Romania in general, and come back every Halloween for the party at “Dracula’s Castle” in Transylvania. And every trip to Romania starts and ends in Bucharest! So here are my top personal recommendations!

Why “Little Paris”?

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Bucharest’s elite were enamored with French culture. French was the language of the upper class, architects trained in Paris designed much of the city, and Romanian society adopted French fashion, manners, and cuisine.
Strolling down Calea Victoriei, you’ll see neoclassical and Belle Époque façades, ornate balconies, and tree-lined streets reminiscent of Paris itself.

And yes, Bucharest even has its own Arc de Triumf, standing proudly in the northern part of the city — a symbol of Romania’s victories in World War I and a perfect nod to its Parisian inspiration.

It was this flair — the architecture, the café life, the cosmopolitan elegance — that earned Bucharest its nickname as Little Paris.

A City Shaped by Communism

But beneath the beauty lies a deeper layer of history. After World War II, Romania fell under communist rule, and Bucharest became the stage for one of Eastern Europe’s most authoritarian regimes.
The dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu demolished entire neighborhoods to build his dream of a “socialist capital.” The result? The Palace of the Parliament, one of the largest buildings in the world — monumental, extravagant, and controversial.

Today, you can take a Dark History and Communism Tour to uncover this period — from secret police operations to the 1989 revolution that finally brought the regime down. It’s haunting, eye-opening, and essential to truly understanding modern Bucharest.

Where to Stay: The Marmorosch Hotel

Checking into Hotel Marmorosch feels like stepping into Bucharest’s glamorous past — with a modern twist. Once a grand bank, this luxury hotel has preserved its Art Deco charm beautifully.
Don’t miss a drink at The Vault, the hotel’s elegant underground bar tucked inside the former bank vault — it’s as atmospheric as it sounds.

Book a balcony room for views over the old city, and take a moment to admire the stunning marble lobby — it’s one of the prettiest in town. Plus, the location couldn’t be better — you’re within walking distance of nearly everything worth seeing.

Can’t Miss These Experiences

1. Dark History & Communism Tour

Discover Bucharest’s dramatic past under communist rule. I highly recommend this tour on Airbnb. Ask for the guide Elena, she’s amazing!

2. Therme Spa

Europe’s largest wellness complex. Just 30 minutes outside the city by Uber, it’s pure paradise after a day of exploring.

3. Caru’ cu Bere –

A Bucharest institution! Reserve ahead for traditional Romanian food, live music, and folk dancers in a jaw-dropping Gothic-style beer hall.

4. Lunch at Manuc’s Inn (Hanul lui Manuc) – A historic inn turned restaurant with delicious Romanian classics and charming courtyard vibes.

5. Carturești Carusel – The city’s iconic bookstore; it’s so beautiful it feels more like a cathedral of literature.

6. Tea at the Little Paris Museum – A charming, hidden gem that captures the spirit of old Bucharest perfectly.

7. Drink or Shisha in Macca Villacrosse Passage – A stunning covered arcade glowing with golden glass ceilings and lively cafés.

8. Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum – An open-air museum showcasing traditional Romanian homes and rural life.

9. Snap a Photo at Umbrella Street – Bucharest’s most colorful and Instagram-famous alley.

10. Brunch at Van Gogh Café – A cozy café in the Old Town with great coffee and even better people-watching.

11. National Museum of the Romanian Peasant – One of Europe’s most fascinating folk art museums.

12. Artmark – Elegant architecture and rich art collections — true “Little Paris” vibes.

13. Casa Capșa – The city’s most famous café and chocolatier, once frequented by poets and politicians. Try the handmade chocolates and soak in the Parisian ambiance.

14. Church of Stavropoleos – A masterpiece of Brâncovenesc architecture tucked in the heart of the Old Town.

15. More Museums to Explore – From the Museum of Communism to the National Museum of European Art, Bucharest is packed with cultural treasures.

16. Have a Drink at The Vault – Back at the Marmorosch, this bar deserves a second mention — it’s that good.

17. Enjoy the Nightlife – Start at Old Habits Bar, then wander through the lively streets of the Old Town. You’ll find bustling terraces, live music, and energy that lasts until dawn.

18. Arc de Triumf (Arcul de Triumf) – A majestic monument celebrating Romania’s unity and independence — perfect for a photo stop and a reminder of Bucharest’s Parisian roots.

19. Tour the Romanium Anthenaeum

20. Join a Wanderlust Group Trip boutique tour around Romania!

Join me in Romania!

Interested in joining me in Romania next Halloween? Follow Wanderlust Group Trips for updates on the next trip!

More on Romania:

• Halloween Party in Dracula’s Castle: Everything You Need To Know For Transylvania & Bran Castle
• 16 Best Things To Do in Sighișoara, Romania – The Colorful Medieval Village in Transylvania
• Ultimate Romania: Halloween in Transylvania with Wanderlust Group Trips

The post Bucharest, Romania: 20 Things You Can’t Miss in the Little Paris of the East appeared first on The Wanderlust Rose.

After attending the Halloween party in Dracula’s Castle in 2023, I knew I had to put together a Wanderlust Group Trip so my incredible travel community could experience Transylvania at this time of year.

The dark history here, the all-night parties, the beautiful medieval villages… I can’t think of a better place to celebrate Halloween than the birthplace of vampire lore and Dracula!

So scroll through some of the pictures below to see what we got up to in Romania for the week of Halloween!

Read: Halloween Party in Dracula’s Castle

Read: 16 Best Things To Do in Sighișoara, Romania

See what travellers are saying about this Romania trip!

The post Ultimate Romania: Halloween in Transylvania with Wanderlust Group Trips appeared first on The Wanderlust Rose.

romania Halloween Party in Dracula’s Castle

Halloween in Dracula’s Castle:
Everything You Need To Know

Welcome, thrill-seekers and history enthusiasts, to the land of mystique and folklore! If you’re looking for an eerie yet enchanting Halloween adventure, look no further than Bran Castle in Romania.

Nestled in the picturesque Carpathian Mountains, this medieval fortress is famously associated with Bram Stoker’s Dracula.

I first attended the epic Halloween party in Dracula’s Castle October 2023 after postponing my trip to Romania for two years because of Covid.

So when I finally made it, I was hoping it would live up to the hype of wanting to come here for YEARS. And did it? Absolutely.

I’ve always loved Halloween so I may be biased but we had an incredible time.

And now I’m here to share some essential tips for an unforgettable Halloween experience including the exact tour and hotels we used. I hope you have an effortless and amazing time at the Halloween party in Dracula’s Castle!

You can watch a quick recap of the night here:

1: Embrace the Spooky Atmosphere

October in Romania is the perfect time to embrace the Halloween spirit, and Bran Castle takes it to another level. The castle is adorned with eerie decorations, cobwebs, and dimly lit corridors, creating an atmosphere meant to send shivers down your spine.

Allow yourself to be enveloped in the spooky ambiance; it’s an integral part of the Halloween charm.

Nearby the castle, located within the castle street markets, you can walk through a haunted house as well. Is it silly? Perhaps a little.

But I encourage you to embrace everything about the Halloween season while in Transylvania. We were giggling and screaming the whole way through the haunted house!

2. Confirm Party Date – It’s on a Saturday, Not Halloween Night

To avoid any bewitching mix-ups, it’s crucial to note that Bran Castle’s Halloween party typically takes place on the Saturday closest to October 31st, rather than on Halloween night itself.

Check the official event schedule or contact the castle directly to confirm the exact date of the Halloween celebration. This ensures you plan your Transylvanian adventure on the correct weekend, preventing any disappointments and allowing you to synchronize your visit with the festivities at Bran Castle.

The Halloween events often feature costumed actors, live performances, and so much more. It’s a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the Dracula legend and enjoy the festivities.

Just make sure you have the right dates for the party!!

3: Get Your Tickets in Advance

Halloween at Bran Castle attracts a large number of visitors, so it’s wise to purchase your tickets in advance. This ensures you won’t miss out on the special events and helps you skip the long queues.

Keep in mind that tickets for Halloween events may sell out quickly due to high demand, so plan ahead to secure your spot.

Tip 4: Dress the Part

What’s Halloween without costumes?

Embrace the spirit of the season by dressing up in your favorite spooky attire. Whether you choose to be a vampire, a ghost, or your own unique creation, wearing a costume adds to the festive atmosphere and makes your visit even more memorable.

Just be sure your costume is comfortable enough for exploring the castle’s narrow corridors and staircases.

We loved the full costume commitment we saw at the party! Just check out some of the photos from the event photographer. Everyone looked amazing!

5. Free Coat Check

Worried about carrying your jacket during the festivities? We went back and forth on whether or not we should bring a winter coat with us. Ultimately we were glad we did for the walk to castle and through the castle grounds to the party.

Plus Bran Castle offers a complimentary coat check, so you can fully enjoy the Halloween revelry unencumbered.

This is especially convenient if you find yourself peeling off layers as the night progresses in the warmth of the marquee.

6. Enjoy the Covered Marquee for the Main Event

Before going to the party, we were searching online trying to find information about the venue. Was it mostly outside? So would we need big coats all night?

And there weren’t very many detailed blog posts explaining it.

So let me clear it up!

The heart of the Halloween celebration takes place in a covered and walled marquee on the castle grounds. Not only does this provide a cozy atmosphere, but it also shields you from the elements.

No need to worry about chilly weather or unexpected rain – you can revel in the festivities comfortably.

The marquee was plenty warm enough to check your coat at the door for free then hang out all evening watching the live performers, dancing or grabbing drinks from the bar!

7. Stay in Brasov and Book a Transported Tour

For a seamless Halloween experience, you have two options. Stay overnight within walking distance of the castle or base yourself in the charming town of Brasov.

We stayed in Brasov and worked out so well! This is the exact tour we booked on Viator.

Many tour operators offer transportation from Brasov to Bran Castle, eliminating the hassle of finding your way there. It is roughly a 30 minute drive from Brasov to Castle Bran. And our tour included a brief stop outside for snacks, wine and local liquor!

Given the popularity of Bran Castle during Halloween, tickets tend to sell out quickly. We tried to buy directly from the castle because it would have been a lot cheaper but I think the tour companies buy up the tickets as soon as they are released. Because we were checking every day and could not get direct tickets.

In the end, we were glad we went with a tour company anyway because it provided transportation, information, welcome drinks and more!

At the end of the night, we had two times available to take the bus back to Brasov. Basically there was a bus heading back around 1am or you could choose to stay all night at the party. We loved having the freedom to decide which bus we wanted to take back!

If you are staying in Brasov, I highly recommend staying in the stunning Casa Albert Boutique & Restaurant. We LOVED this boutique hotel that perfectly overlooked the main road. The rooms were stunning, the breakfast was delicious and the beautiful cave restaurant was decorated for Halloween. Highly recommend this place!

BRASOV HOTEL RECOMMENDATION: Casa Albert Boutique & Restaurant

8. Beat the Lines – Enter Early

If you want to make the most of your visit, aim to enter the castle earlier in the evening. The lines tend to grow longer as the night progresses, and you’ll be grateful for the head start.

We entered while it was still dark, enhancing the mysterious atmosphere, and by the time we exited, the line had grown considerably. We walked right up to the castle and entered immediately. Now people were standing in a line that wrapped all the way through the castle grounds and all the way back out to the exit. Early birds skip the (massive) line!

Because we were one of the earlier ones to go through the castle, we were earlier to the dance floor as well. But this timing worked great! It allowed us to drop off our coats at coat check with no line and grab some drinks at the bar, again, with no line.

9. Itinerary Break Down

If you decided to do one of the guided tours from Brasov that doesn’t include dinner, here’s how your night might look.

• Meet up in Brasov
• Drive 35-45 min to Bran Castle
• Tour guide gives info on the bus ride
• Stop for wine and snacks
• Enter castle & do self guided night tour
• Following castle self guided tour, walk to marquee on castle grounds
• Take either the 1am or 3/4am bus back to Brasov
• Give yourself at least one extra day in Brasov to recover, sleep in & then explore

10. Drinks at the bar & live music until morning

For Halloween at Dracula’s Castle being such an iconic and unique event, I was really impressed by the cheap drinks available for purchase.

If this were a New York Halloween party, the drinks would have be 5x what they cost in Romania! We had a few drinks before the party while getting ready but then there is a large gap between the bus ride and the castle tour (where alcohol isn’t served).

However, we felt like the bar inside the marquee moved pretty quickly!

11.Bathrooms can be difficult to find

Navigating the grounds in search of the bathrooms might prove a bit tricky amidst the excitement.

Just before you enter the castle, there is a bathroom off to the left-hand side as you come up the path. If you miss this one, there isn’t another inside the castle. So make sure you take advantage of this one before beginning the tour!

Then when you are out on the grounds, they have porta-potties near the marquee. But in the dark and after several drinks, we really struggled to find them! We were convinced there weren’t any bathrooms at all. (I even read another blog post staying there wasn’t any.) However when we returned the next day for a daytime castle tour, we saw the line of porta potties behind the trees.

So my advice? Just immediately ask event staff to point you in the right direction so you don’t wind up wandering around lost like we did!

12. Actual Halloween night may be quiet in Brasov

While Bran Castle hosts a thrilling Halloween celebration, it’s worth noting that Halloween night in Brasov itself might be relatively quiet, especially if it falls on a weekday.

Many locals in Brasov may celebrate Halloween over the weekend, resulting in a more subdued atmosphere during the actual night of October 31st.

If you’re seeking lively street parties and festivities, just plan to be in Brasov over the weekend.

By keeping this in mind, you can adjust your plans accordingly, perhaps opting for a more tranquil evening in Brasov on Halloween night and saving your high-energy, costumed revelry for Bran Castle’s main event.

Or if you are looking to party both nights, head back to Bucharest for Halloween and join a pub crawl there!

13. Embark on a Questo Challenge in Brasov on Halloween Night

For a unique and interactive Halloween experience in Brasov, consider participating in a Questo challenge. Questo offers location-based, self-guided city exploration games using your smartphone.

These challenges are a delightful blend of a scavenger hunt and a guided tour, leading you through Brasov’s charming streets and landmarks while unfolding mysterious tales related to the city.

While it may seem a bit cheesy, especially on Halloween night, it adds an extra layer of fun to your exploration. It’s all about solving riddles, uncovering hidden stories, and immersing yourself in the spooky ambiance of Brasov at night. It’s an entertaining way to spend the evening for sure!

14. Explore Bran Castle and Hike to the Viewpoint

Don’t limit your Bran Castle experience to just the night!

During the daytime, the castle and its surroundings unveil a different kind of enchantment. Take a leisurely tour of Bran Castle, delving into its rich history, eerie chambers, and captivating exhibits. Exploring in daylight provides a unique perspective on the castle’s architecture and the picturesque landscapes surrounding it.

But the adventure doesn’t end there. Lace up some comfortable walking shoes and embark on a hike to the castle’s viewpoint. The vantage point offers panoramic views of the Carpathian Mountains and the quaint village below. It’s a perfect opportunity to breathe in the crisp mountain air and capture some stunning photos.

Visiting during the day not only allows you to appreciate the castle’s details more intricately but also lets you enjoy in the natural beauty that surrounds this iconic fortress.

So, plan a daytime excursion, soak in the history, and elevate your experience with a hike to a mesmerizing viewpoint.

15. Go to Sighisoara for more Dracula/Halloween fun

While immersing yourself in the mysteries of Bran Castle, consider expanding your Transylvanian journey to include the charming town of Sighisoara. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sighisoara is renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and is the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the historical figure who inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula.

Stroll through the cobblestone streets of the Citadel, visit the iconic Clock Tower, and explore the birthplace of Vlad at the House of Dracula.

Sighisoara offers a unique blend of history, folklore, and vibrant local culture. It’s one of my absolute favorite places in Romania!

Include Sighisoara in your itinerary, either as a day trip or an extended stay, to enhance your Transylvanian adventure. The town’s atmospheric ambiance and historical significance make it a perfect complement to the spooky allure of Bran Castle.

Read: 16 BEST THINGS TO DO IN SIGHIȘOARA, ROMANIA

16. Explore Surrounding Attractions

While Bran Castle is the star of the show, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the surrounding areas.

The Carpathian Mountains offer breathtaking views, and nearby villages provide a glimpse into traditional Romanian life.

Consider extending your stay to include visits to Peles Castle, Rasnov Fortress, and the charming town of Brasov.

17. Watch & Read about Vlad the Impaler Before Your Trip

Before your Halloween trip to Romania, you should absolutely watch season 2 of Rise of Empires: Ottoman Mehmed vs Vlad.

It tells the insane true story of Vlad the Impaler and is definitely worth the watch. It’s really well done and will give you a better understanding of the history.

You can watch a trailer below. We binge watched this mini series because it was SO addicting. And it lays out the history in a very compelling way. I cannot recommend this show enough!

And if you like reading, you’re sure to LOVE The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova.

“Breathtakingly suspenseful and beautifully written, The Historian is the story of a young woman plunged into a labyrinth where the secrets of her family’s past connect to an inconceivable evil: the dark fifteenth-century reign of Vlad the Impaler and a time-defying pact that may have kept his awful work alive through the ages. The search for the truth becomes an adventure of monumental proportions, taking us from monasteries and dusty libraries to the capitals of Eastern Europe—in a feat of storytelling so rich, so hypnotic, so exciting that it has enthralled readers around the world.”

The Historian

Buy Now

“Part thriller, part history, part romance…Kostova has a keen sense of storytelling and she has a marvelous tale to tell.” —Baltimore Sun

18. Join me in Romania for Halloween!

Think this all looks fun?

Then join me in Romania for my Halloween group trip! It’s a totally unique itinerary that you can get from any other tour operator ANYWHERE!

You can get updates by following Wanderlust Group Trips on Instagram.

Read: WANDERLUST GROUP TRIPS: 10 REASONS TO JOIN A TRIP

Bran Castle at Halloween is an otherworldly experience that combines history, mystery, and the thrill of the season.

Whether you’re a history buff, a Halloween enthusiast, or simply curious about the legendary Dracula, this Romanian adventure promises to be a hauntingly good time.

Halloween Party in Dracula’s Castle

The post Halloween Party in Dracula’s Castle: Everything You Need To Know For Transylvania & Bran Castle appeared first on The Wanderlust Rose.

16 Best Things To Do in Sighișoara, Romania –
The Colorful Medieval Village in Transylvania

Nestled amidst the enchanting Transylvanian countryside, the town of Sighișoara is a hidden gem that will transport you back in time.

With its well-preserved medieval architecture and a rich tapestry of history, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit destination for those looking to step into a fairy tale while traveling around Romania.

Its cobblestone streets and brightly painted facades completely stole my heart. It was one of my favorite places we visited on my two week Romania road trip.

My first visit was in the fall right after attending the Halloween party in Bran Castle. (Which was EPIC by the way!!) Early November was the perfect time to visit.

There were absolutely NO crowds and we felt like we had the city to ourselves.

I host and co-guide trips to Romania at Halloween time with my company, Wanderlust Group Trips. (Follow the page on Instagram for upcoming Romania trip updates!)

So here’s a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Sighișoara, ensuring you make the most of your visit! I have no doubt you’ll love it.

1. Admire the Beauty of Sighișoara’s Clock Tower

Your journey into this medieval wonderland begins at the iconic Clock Tower.

“The Sighișoara Clock Tower was among several towers built between the 13th and 16th centuries to defend the medieval citadel. Shimmering scale-like tiles cover the roof and painted wooden figurines emerge from a niche beside the clock. Inside, there is a small museum and a 360-degree viewing platform.“

2. Locate All the Watchtowers

Sighișoara boasts a network of watchtowers, each with its own unique charm. During the medevial ages, there were 14 towers. Each one was built, manned and maintained by the 14 guilds of the city which included groups like the Blacksmiths, Butchers, Weavers, Rope Makers, Leather Tanners, and Tailors guilds. Each tower was it’s own individual fortress. And together they protected the city as a whole.

Amazingly, nine of these medieval towers are still in place.

Make it a quest to find them all and enjoy the panoramic vistas they offer.

3. Take a Picture on Colorful Strada Tamplarilor

Stroll down Strada Tamplarilor, a colorful street lined with charming houses, each painted in vibrant hues. It’s a perfect spot for a photo op!

4. Stay in one of the many gorgeous and historic boutique hotels

Indulge in the town’s historic ambiance by staying in one of the enchanting boutique hotels right in the city center. They offer a cozy and authentic experience, all located in historic properties.

We stayed at Casa Savri and it was PHENOMENAL. I cannot recommend this boutique hotel enough! It’s built into a 700 year old historic house and it’s stunning. Yet it completely honors the history of the place. This was one of our favorite stays in Romania!

We found this place on Booking.com because the reviews were just fantastic! And I have to say, it absolutely lived up to the hype.

However, there are a lot of charming boutique hotels within the citadel. I just recommend staying in the heart of the old city so you can easily walk everywhere.

5. Sample Local Wine with a Tasting at Teo‘s Cellar

Experience the flavors of the region by sampling local wines at Teo’s Cellar, a stunning 500 year old wine cellar in the heart of Sighișoara.

The wine tastings here are a delightful journey into Transylvanian viticulture.

And I cannot say enough good things about the kind man who owns and runs this establishment. He is an absolute gem!!

We did the wine tasting with 7 wines and it was great. (And super inexpensive!!)

Every single wine was delicious. And afterwards, he had us try some of the fruit liquor his family has been making for generations. We loved it so much, we bought a bottle to take home!

There is zero pressure to buy anything when you do the wine tasting but we genuinely loved the drinks so much. His award winning fruit liquor would also make for an excellent gift/souvenir. If you like wine, don’t skip this place!

Address: Strada Școlii 14, Sighișoara 545400, Romania

6. Tour the Inside of the Ironsmith’s Tower

Explore the history of Vlad the Impaler with a visit to the Ironsmith’s Tower. A short film on the “true story” of Dracula adds an extra layer of intrigue. However, I found this video to be comically full of propaganda.

When a child asks if Vlad the Impaler was a bad man, the father character states something like, “If you ever doubt if he was a good person, just look to the flag.” The video completely brushes over the reality that Vlad likely would have been tried for the brutality of his war crimes in modern day. He was responsible for killing 80,000-100,000 people. Many were Ottoman soldiers in warfare yes, but he did not spare innocent lives of mothers and children.

While it is interesting to go inside the Ironsmith’s Tower for a short visit, I would urge you to do some of your own research into this incredibly dark and complex time in history.

I suggest reading this article as well as this one.

Also, the Rise of Empires on Netflix focuses entirely on Vlad the Impaler in their second season Vlad vs. Mehmed. Although dramatized at times, it’s a really great mini-series to understand Vlad’s rise to power and the brutality behind some of his horrendous crimes.

7. Enjoy the Beautiful Terrace Restaurant at Casa Cositorarului

Savor traditional Romanian cuisine with a view. The terrace restaurant at Casa Cositorarului offers a delightful dining experience.

This cozy little spot has hanging plants, fairy lights, cozy seating and blankets for a chilly night.

Like most of the medieval city, the property is both a small boutique hotel and a restaurant.

However you do not need to be a guest at the hotel to enjoy a nice dinner on this stunning terrace.

And I highly suggest the pumpkin cream soup!

Address: Strada Cositorarilor 8-9, Sighișoara 545400, Romania

8. Sighișoara Viewpoint at Bella Vista

For breathtaking panoramas of Sighișoara, make your way to Bella Vista.

It’s a picture-perfect spot to appreciate the town’s unique charm only a 12 minute drive away from the old town.

The small bumpy road will take you down from the citadel and then up on a neighboring hill where there is a restaurant and a guest house. Anyone can visit the restaurant terrace to enjoy the views of the citadel.

We sat having a beer and a coffee in the the sunshine while taking pictures at golden hour, it was delightful!

Address: Strada Dealul Gării 7, Sighișoara 545400, Romania

9. Walk the Historic Covered Stairs

The historic covered stairs in Sighișoara are an architectural wonder, leading to the Church on the Hill. Built in 1642 to connect the lower and upper parts of the citadel, the stairs are now a popular tourist attraction in the city! They are still open today and you can walk the path of scholars from hundreds of years ago.

10. Visit a Nearby Winery

Explore the nearby wineries to further indulge in the flavors of Transylvania’s wine culture.

Just 30 minutes away by car, you can visit Petry Estate Winery.

Andrei Winery Richis 140 is also just a 35 minute drive from town!

11. Visit the Room Where Dracula Was Born

Sighișoara is believed to be the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration behind Dracula. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the room where this infamous figure was born.

Is it kitschy? Yes absolutely it is. It’s a silly tourist trap. But even with all that, we were glad we did it. We were visiting during Halloween time and wanted to do all the spooky things Romania had to offer.

Besides, it was amazing to see the historic building where Vlad once lived. Its located right next to the Clock Tower.

12. Shop for Locally-Made Transylvanian Souvenirs

Support local artisans and take home a piece of Transylvania with you. Sighișoara is a great place to find unique, locally-made souvenirs.

Unfortunately a lot of souvenir vendors in Romania are selling really tacky trinkets from China that have nothing to do with Romania culture or heritage. But there are some local shops that sell gifts from authentic Romanian artists.

13. Download the Romania App for More Travel Information at Each Stop

To enhance your visit, download the Romania app, which provides detailed information about each attraction and its historical significance.

14. Solve a Questo Challenge

Add an element of adventure to your visit by solving Questo challenges that lead you on a unique quest through the town, uncovering hidden gems and fascinating stories.

The first time I downloaded the Questo app was in Brasov to participate in a dark history quest. It was a blast. Definitely a bit cheesy but also packed with great facts and snippets of history. It’s a fun way to get out exploring the city. Think of it like an outdoor escape room.

You’ll solve challenges as you go from one point in the city to the next. Usually, to solve a fictional storyline but as you play, the app will give you actual facts about the sights you’re seeing etc. We had a ton of fun with it!

Medieval Sighisoara: Defend the Fortress and Protect the City

Storyline of this Questo challenge: “It’s the year 1601 and, after being away from home for too long, you are now going back to your hometown. Shortly after you arrive home, you find out that the city is in danger, as the ruthless Transylvanian ruler, Stefan Bathory is trying to conquer it. Go on an adventure around the old city walls and play the role of a native hero who saves the day.“

15. Book a Night Tour with a Local Guide

Cap off your visit with a night tour led by a knowledgeable local guide.

The town’s medieval streets take on a whole new, enchanting character after dark.

Truth be told, this wasn’t the best walking tour I had ever been on but I still enjoyed it. Our guide was knowledgeable but didn’t share as much about the city’s dark history as we had hoped.

16. Book a local cultural tour with award winning guide, Emanuel Enache

One of the highest rated tour guides in the area is available for private tours in both Sighișoara and the nearby surrounding area.

Emanuel is a born and raised Transylvanian native who offers countless unique day travel experiences in the area. I suggest reaching out to him before your trip to arrange one of his tours!

• Discover Gabor Gypsies
• Sighisoara City Tour
• Transylvanian lunch with a local family
• Transylvanian Day Tours

Sighișoara is a town that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty, offering a truly immersive experience.

With so much to see and do, it’s a destination that will leave you with cherished memories and a deep appreciation for the rich heritage of Transylvania.

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Best Things To Do in Sighișoara

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