From Brasov: Small-group tour Bran, Rasnov, and Peles Castles

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 magnificent rooms of the castle, highlighting its details  and unknown 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 Teutonic Knights and reconstructed as a stone  building by the orders of Ludvig de Anjou, it protected the  south-eastern border of Transylvania with Wallachia. Not only used as a  military fort, but it was also used as a customs building where  merchants paid their taxes before entering Transylvania. Strategically  built on a rock called Dietrich Rock, it offered a great outlook on 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  favorite 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 get an  introduction to the numerous tales and legends that inspired Bram Stoker  in creating 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 the villagers could accommodate  themselves and be protected by thick walls equipped with shooting and  pouring holes. 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.The recommendations of our tour guides:We are always eager to make sure our  guests have a wonderful time while participating on our tours.  Organizing private and small group tours allows us to be flexible with  time and always have opportunities for breaks. Usually, we arrive to Bran around mid-day and after visiting Bran castle  our guests can have some free time on the premises and nearby the  castle grounds for lunch, shopping or photographing the area. In the Tea House, a small restaurant in the castle’s courtyard one can  try the Funeral cake, a porridge like dessert with walnuts, raisins, rum and much more. In Romanian called Coliva the funeral cake usually is  served at funerals and commemoration of deceased loved ones. It goes  well with a good coffee or tea. Nearby the castle entrance a small souvenir market is located, our  favorite stall is selling traditional masks and handcrafted objects and  textiles.  Please ask your guide to point it out to you! Our guests have the option to decide to have a proper sit-down meal or  something quick on the move. The same market has food stalls, one of the most popular ones sells Romanian Hot Dogs (local sausage sandwiches)  and Hanul Bran restaurant offers a large choice of tasty Romanian cuisine.