Bran Castle, Rasnov Fortress, and Peles Castle visit | Brașov, Romania

The 10-hour tour takes you to the heart of the mysterious Romanian region. After hotel pickup in Brasov, we drive to Sinaia to visit Peles  Castle, a striking example of Neo-Renaissance architecture, then tick off top attractions such as the dramatic Rasnov Fortress and Bran’s  Castle, whose Gothic turrets and hilltop perch have earned it the nickname of ‘Dracula’s Castle’. Peles surprises not only with its exterior beauty but with its intricate interior and attention to detail.  Built as a summer residence for Romania's first monarch, Carol I, it is a blend of style, beauty, and intricately carved wood. The Palace of the Pels is the first castle in Europe to have electrical power and was equipped with an electric elevator, hot and cold running water, central heating, and a vacuum cleaner. Our knowledgeable guides will take you through the castle's magnificent rooms, highlighting its details and hidden secrets. Our second stop will be in Bran Castle, also known as ‘Dracula’s Castle’ — a hilltop estate that conjures up visions of howling wolves and bats fluttering in the moonlight. Wander the castle’s  Gothic chambers and learn about its ties to Bram Stoker’s undead antihero, inspired by Vlad the Impaler, a harsh but rightful ruler.  Initially built by the Teutonic Knights and later reconstructed as a stone structure by the orders of Ludvig de Anjou, it protected the southeastern border of Transylvania with Wallachia. Not only a military fort, but also a customs building where merchants paid their taxes before entering Transylvania. Strategically built on Dietrich Rock, it offered a strong vantage point over the trade route passing through. After the Great Unification of Transylvania with the rest of Romania, the castle's tale took a turn. It became the favourite summer residence of Queen Maria, the Queen of all Romanians and one of the key makers of Greater Romania. Accompanied by our guide, you'll not only learn about the castle's history but also gain an introduction to the numerous tales and legends that inspired Bram Stoker to create his successful novel Dracula. Next up is Rasnov Fortress,  also known as the Peasant Castle, which was used by the inhabitants of Rasnov (Rosenau) as a place of shelter during numerous invasions. The fortress included dwellings where villagers could live and be protected by thick walls with openings for shooting and pouring. Not only did the community consider their food resources,  but they were also ambitious enough to dig a very deep well to ensure they had water inside the fortress. Our guide will happily tell you tales and legends while taking in the beautiful views around the fortress.