How To Have An Amazing Experience At Bran Castle

Many know and come to Romania because of Bram Stoker’s Dracula story. Almost all our guests wish to visit Bran Castle, the castle referred to as Dracula’s Castle as well. Some want to visit, others just to drive by.

Bran Castle as seen by Warren Singh-Bartlett

Do you know which are the possible ways to experience this castle? Before I share those, however, I want to clarify a few things I often get asked.

First, if you ask me, the castle is absolutely worth your time. Leaving aside the fact that Dracula’s story is a myth and that Vlad the Impaler, the Romanian prince of Wallachia who inspired Bram Stoker’s character, isn’t known to have ever lived in Bran, the castle is relevant for Romania’s history. The reason for its importance is Queen Marie of Romania (Marie of Edinburgh) who created at Bran a summer residence in the mountains. She is the one who influenced a lot of the changes and even the current look of the castle. When you visit, it is about her and the rest of the Romanian Royal family that you can learn from your visit.

Queen Marie of Romania, Source: Wikipedia

Second, because it’s on everyone’s bucket list, visiting especially in August and September can be very infuriating; it’s just too crowded. Moreover, although there is a real and beautiful story related to the castle, the marketing around it as Dracula’s Castle and the touristy entrance can really spoil your experience.

Having said this, here are some ideas for you to experience the castle and be left with beautiful memories:

• If you visit during regular hours, try to be there early or before the last entrance and, if possible, avoid August and September.
• Have your tickets ready in advance so you swiftly jump the ticket queue.
• Book a private, after-hours tour. This is an experience that will allow you to take your time discovering the castle, to enjoy the story told by guides at your own pace, to have space and time for better pictures. Send us an e-mail to learn more and get a quote.
• Treat yourself and, after your private tour, enjoy a wine tasting with local cheeses or even a 5 course meal in Queen Marie’s Music Salon. You can invite up to 25 friends and family for a seated dinner and enjoy a truly special night at the castle. E-mail us to find out more.

Enjoy the taste of reinvented Romanian dishes Source: Cristina Marin

• Last, but not least, you can have your party at the castle. Consider doing this in summer: you’ll have a buffet dinner and the “dance floor” in the internal courtyard of the castle. A DJ, party lights and dancing music in this beautiful setting is a very special way to celebrate something important. E-mail us if interested.

Now that you know, it’s just a question of deciding when to come and what to do before and after Bran. We’re here if you need ideas! We’ve got plenty…