48 hours in Transylvania… Arriving in Transylvania feels like stepping into a Gothic fairytale—misty mountains, medieval castles, and cobblestone villages rich with legend. This Romanian region, famous for its association with Dracula, offers far more than just vampire lore. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant history, and warm hospitality, 48 hours in Transylvania promises a mix of mystery, adventure, and culture. The land of myths and medieval splendour, Transylvania is a place where history and folklore intertwine, creating an atmosphere unlike any other in Europe.
Start your journey in Brașov, one of Transylvania’s most picturesque cities, where Saxon walls and towers surround an enchanting Old Town. Begin your morning with breakfast at La Birou Bistro, a cosy spot serving fresh pastries, strong Romanian coffee, and hearty omelettes. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, try the local cozonac, a fluffy, nut-filled bread. Fuelled up, take a walk through Brașov’s historic centre, stopping at Council Square, where pastel-hued baroque buildings surround the lively plaza. Snap a photo of the narrow Rope Street, one of the narrowest streets in Europe, before heading to the Black Church, an imposing Gothic structure famous for its impressive organ and centuries-old carpets from Anatolia.
Mid-morning, take a short drive to Bran Castle, often referred to as Dracula’s Castle. While its connection to Vlad the Impaler is questionable, its dramatic hilltop setting, secret passageways, and eerie atmosphere make it an unmissable stop. Walk through its creaky wooden rooms filled with medieval artefacts and gaze out over the misty forests beyond. After exploring the castle, browse the nearby market for traditional crafts, including woollen rugs, hand-painted ceramics, and local cheeses such as the pungent brânză de burduf.
For lunch, head to Casa Vlad Dracul in Sighișoara, a restaurant located in the supposed birthplace of Vlad the Impaler. Try the sarmale (cabbage rolls stuffed with meat) or the Transylvanian goulash for an authentic taste of Romanian cuisine. Afterward, wander through Sighișoara’s Old Town, a UNESCO-listed gem with colourful houses, medieval towers, and charming cobblestone streets. Climb the Clock Tower for a panoramic view of the city before strolling past the Scholars’ Stairs to reach the Church on the Hill. As you explore, take in the medieval charm of the town’s fortified walls and hidden courtyards, each telling a story of centuries past.
In the afternoon, drive to Sibiu, another Transylvanian jewel known for its well-preserved medieval charm. Walk across the Bridge of Lies, where legend has it that liars who step onto it will hear it creak under their deceit. Explore the picturesque squares, admire the grandeur of the Brukenthal Palace, and stop by the Lutheran Cathedral, where the gothic architecture and eerie crypt offer a moment of reflection. If time allows, visit the ASTRA Museum, an open-air ethnographic museum showcasing traditional Romanian village life, complete with wooden churches, windmills, and authentic peasant houses.
As the evening sets in, settle in for dinner at Crama Sibiană, a rustic restaurant offering traditional Romanian fare like mămăligă (polenta) with cheese and sour cream. Sip on a glass of Fetească Neagră, Romania’s famous red wine, while soaking in the warm, medieval ambience. End your night with a glass of local plum brandy (țuică) in one of Sibiu’s charming cellar bars before resting in a boutique guesthouse within the Old Town, where the history of Transylvania seeps through the walls.
The next morning, start with a scenic drive through the Transfăgărășan, Romania’s most famous mountain road, offering breathtaking views of the Carpathians. If you visit in the summer, stop at Bâlea Lake, a glacial lake nestled high in the mountains, where you can hike the surrounding trails or simply take in the jaw-dropping scenery. If you’re visiting in winter when the pass is closed, opt instead for a visit to Corvin Castle in Hunedoara, a striking 15th-century fortress with soaring towers and an atmospheric drawbridge. The castle’s dramatic silhouette and haunting corridors make it one of the most impressive medieval strongholds in Europe.
For lunch, stop at Albota Trout Farm, where you can enjoy freshly caught fish by a serene mountain lake. Try the grilled trout with garlic sauce, a regional speciality that pairs perfectly with a crisp Romanian white wine. After your meal, visit Biertan Fortified Church, one of Transylvania’s best-preserved Saxon strongholds, famous for its intricate wooden door locking mechanism and impressive defensive walls. If time allows, take a walk through the rolling hills of the countryside, dotted with traditional villages where time seems to stand still. Stop by Viscri, a tiny village that Prince Charles himself has championed for its well-preserved Saxon heritage, and enjoy a quiet moment among the whitewashed houses and peaceful meadows.
Before leaving Transylvania, stop by a local market or handicraft shop to pick up souvenirs like handmade ceramics, embroidered textiles, or a bottle of Romania’s famous Fetească Neagră wine. Visit a traditional bakery for a final taste of Transylvanian chimney cake (kürtőskalács), a sweet, cinnamon-coated pastry cooked over an open flame. As you depart, the misty peaks, medieval towers, and echoes of history will leave you longing to return to this enchanting region, where myths and reality blend seamlessly. Whether it’s the eerie beauty of Bran Castle, the vibrant streets of Sibiu, or the untouched charm of Viscri, Transylvania holds a kind of magic that lingers long after you leave.
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