Bran Castle: A Day Trip to Dracula’s Castle from Bucharest (or Not)
The Dracula Myth: Separating Fact from Fiction
Despite its nickname as “Dracula’s Castle,” Bran Castle has little connection to the famous vampire. Bram Stoker’s fictional character, Dracula, is often associated with Vlad III or Vlad Țepeș, commonly known as Vlad the Impaler, as impalement was his favorite form of execution.
Vlad the Impaler was the Prince of Wallachia, a region in Romania, and came from the House of Dracula. However, neither Vlad the Impaler nor Stoker ever visited Bran Castle, and the castle’s appearance differs significantly from the one described in his novel. It was originally thought that Vlad the Impaler was imprisoned at Bran Castle. That also proved false, as he was actually incarcerated in Hungary.
The castle’s nickname primarily stems from foreign tourists, and the city of Bran has embraced this association. This misconception led me to question whether visiting Bran Castle was worthwhile, especially considering the long day trip from Bucharest.
Bran Castle: A Day Trip to Dracula's Castle (or Not) - Table of Contents
- The Dracula Myth – Separating Fact from Fiction
- A Day Trip from Bucharest – The Journey to Bran Castle
- The Bran Castle Experience – Crowds, Lines, and Limited Time
- Beyond the Dracula Myth – Queen Marie and Other Historical Figures
- Is Bran Castle Worth the Visit?
- Bran Castle Tours and Packages
- Video Highlights of My Trip to Bran Castle
- Support Buzzin’ Around the World – Visit Our Affiliates
- Earning Points and Rewards
- Related Content
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A Day Trip from Bucharest: The Journey to Bran Castle
Despite my reservations, I decided to embark on the journey to Bran Castle to satisfy my students’ curiosity. The trip involved a train ride from Bucharest to Brasov, followed by a series of bus transfers. Navigating the bus stations and finding the correct routes proved challenging, as schedules were outdated and information was limited.
After a long and somewhat uncomfortable bus ride, I finally arrived in Bran. The entrance to Bran Castle is located within a shopping bazaar, where I encountered long lines for ticket purchases and castle entry. Fortunately, having purchased my tickets online allowed me to bypass these lines.
The Bran Castle Experience: Crowds, Lines, and Limited Time
The crowds at Bran Castle were substantial, making it difficult to fully appreciate the sights and read the descriptions. The lack of restrictions on visitor numbers meant that the castle was often overcrowded, with tour groups and individual visitors vying for space. This made it challenging to take photos and enjoy a peaceful experience.
Only a Few Rooms Inside Bran Castle Deal with Supernatural and Mythical Creatures
Within the castle itself, there are few references to vampires. Most of the artifacts are related to Queen Marie of Romania, and there are a couple of rooms dedicated to supernatural and mythical creatures associated with Transylvania. These creatures include the Lele, the Grime Reaper, Werewolves, and the Solomonarii. However, these rooms were not particularly impressive.
Skip the Line Guided Tour of Bran Castle
Linked below is a tour that claims you can “Skip the Line.” With how long the line was during my visit, this might be a good option. I am an affiliate of Viator and will receive a small commission if you purchase a tour using my link. This commission is at no additional cost to you.
 Bran Castle Skip-The-Line Guided Tour - $42.01 Your guide will take you on one hour tour INSIDE Dracula's Castle. Visiting Bran Castle located on the southern part of Transylvania you'll travel back in time of the ruthless kings and their reign of terror . The visitor will be overwhelmed by its greatness and the stories that come with it. |
Beyond the Dracula Myth: Queen Marie and Other Historical Figures
While the Dracula connection may draw visitors, Bran Castle offers a glimpse into the history of Queen Marie of Romania. Her personal belongings and furnishings provide a fascinating insight into her life and times.
Is Bran Castle Worth the Trip? My Verdict
Ultimately, whether Bran Castle is worth the trip is a personal decision. While the castle itself is a beautiful medieval structure, the long journey, crowds, and limited time within the castle may not appeal to everyone.
If you do decide to visit Bran Castle, I recommend planning your trip carefully, purchasing tickets in advance, and arriving early to avoid the crowds. Additionally, consider staying in Bran or Brasov to minimize the time spent traveling.
Despite its association with Dracula, Bran Castle offers a unique glimpse into Romanian history and culture. Whether you’re a fan of medieval architecture and history or simply looking for a new adventure, a visit to Bran Castle can be a rewarding experience.
Bran Castle Tours and Packages
A tour likely would have enhanced my visit to Bran Castle. Below are some tour packages that visit Bran Castle. Please note that I am an affiliate of Viator. If you purchase a tour using one of my links, I will receive a small commission. This commission is at no additional cost to you.
 Bran Castle and Queen Marie museum - day trip from Brasov - $87.59 Enjoy a 6 hours trip along the southern border of Transylvania EXCLUSIVELY with a professional licensed guide . Your tour features informative commentary about the two medieval fortresses , the tour will be held INSIDE both Rasnov and Bran Castle , followed by an in depth explanation about Brasov . All this in the most comfortable way possible in your complimentary transport in a vehicle with AC provided by our agency . |
 Bran Castle - Dracula's Castle after hours - $242.81 Enjoy your 4 hours tour on the Southern Transylvania at Dracula's Castle after the opening program just you and the guide away from the crowds . Your guide will take you on your private van/coach to Bran Castle . A full tour will be provided by a professional licensed guide as well as round trip from Brasov. |
 DRACULA WEEKEND - Bran Castle, Peles Castle, Brasov City, Rasnov Citadel - $432.40 Discover for yourself the mystery of Count Dracula: walk in the footsteps of legends and hear the stories that bring together people from all over the world. Medieval castles, Vlad the Implaler, the famous Count Dracula, wild nature and Bram Stoker are the clues to your historical expedition. Do not miss your chance to visit and sleep in Dracula`s Home, an extraordinary place with an authentic atmosphere. |
 Local experience from Brasov - Transylvanian villages and Bran Castle - $165.36 Discover the unspoiled beauty of an authentic mountain village, mentioned in National Geographic’s book “Greatest Landscapes”, and then walk through nature and taste the fresh milk and traditional dishes of the Bran-Moieciu area. |
 Bran Castle, Peles Castle and Brasov City - Private Tour from Bucharest - $221.81 If you are looking for a day of adventure to cut yourself off from the stress of everyday life, we have put together for you a one-day tour of the Bran Castle, followed by several other important sites worthy of your attention. |
 Fortified Churches - Bran Castle - Rasnov Fortress Tour from Brasov - $64.35 This tour combines a lot of objectives on a short distance. It starts with two fortified churches representative for Transylvania, not crowded, where time seems to have stopped. Rasnov Citadel and Bran Castle fallow like two very known touristic objectives, than you can see Poiana Brasov ski resort. On the way back to Brasov you have a panoramic view of all Brasov city. |
Video Highlights of My Trip to Bran Castle
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