Wondering what to do in Transylvania? In short, this region has it all. Medieval towns, fairy-tale castles, quiet villages and wild bears fill the map. Most importantly, it is far more than the Dracula legend.

Transylvania sits in the heart of Romania, ringed by the Carpathian Mountains. Here are 10 unmissable things to do, and most of them feature on our Transylvania Experience.

10 Things to Do in Transylvania

1. Climb to Bran Castle in Transylvania

Perched on a rocky crag, Bran Castle is the one everyone pictures. Also, it dates back to the 14th century, and its turrets look straight out of a Gothic novel. Many people link it with Dracula, even though historians doubt that Vlad ever lived here.

Inside, narrow passages and hidden staircases lead from room to room. Go early, because the castle gets busy by mid-morning. It is a classic first stop for any trip to Transylvania.

2. Explore Medieval Brașov

Surrounded by forested hills, Brașov is one of Transylvania’s finest Saxon towns. In addition, the huge Black Church and the colourful Council Square sit at its heart. In the evening, the cafés fill up and the old streets glow.

Take time to look up as well. Mount Tâmpa rises right above the rooftops, so the views are never far away. It also makes a great base for exploring the region.

3. Wander the Citadel of Sighișoara

Sighișoara is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. Moreover, this walled hilltop citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Pastel houses crowd its cobbled lanes, and the colourful Clock Tower rises above them all.

It is also the birthplace of Vlad III, the real man behind the Dracula legend. Don’t miss the Covered Staircase and the Church on the Hill. Because the town is small, it is easy to explore on foot.

4. Discover Sibiu and the Bridge of Lies

Sibiu is one of the prettiest cities in Transylvania. Meanwhile, its grand squares, pastel buildings and cobbled lanes make it a joy to wander. It was a European Capital of Culture in 2007, and the effort shows.

Be sure to cross the Bridge of Lies. Then stop for coffee in the Large Square. In addition, the rooftops of the old town have “eyes”, which are small attic windows that seem to watch you pass.

5. Step Inside Peleș Castle

Peleș Castle sits in the mountains near Sinaia. In fact, it was built for King Carol I in the late 19th century, and it is one of the most beautiful castles in Europe. The gardens are lovely, and the Carpathian forests rise behind them.

Inside, ornate woodwork and rich decoration fill every room. As a result, it feels completely different from the stark medieval fortresses elsewhere in Transylvania. It is a fairy-tale stop on any itinerary.

6. Visit a Saxon Village in Transylvania

Beyond the cities, Transylvania’s villages are a world of their own. Also, Viscri is one of the best known, with its fortified Saxon church. This church is part of a UNESCO World Heritage listing. Meanwhile, colourful farmhouses line the quiet lanes.

Life here moves slowly. You will see horse carts, hear the church bell and smell woodsmoke. For many travellers, a night in a village is the highlight of the trip.

7. Meet the Bears at Libearty Bear Sanctuary

Near Brașov, the Libearty Bear Sanctuary is home to bears that have been rescued from captivity. In addition, they now live in a large forest enclosure. As a result, it is a good way to see these impressive animals up close.

Walkways let you watch the bears as they roam, forage and rest. It is a thoughtful, worthwhile visit, and it supports animal welfare as well.

8. Watch Wild Brown Bears From a Hide

The Carpathians are home to one of the largest brown bear populations in Europe. Moreover, with a local guide, you can watch them from a hide at dusk. Seeing a wild bear emerge from the trees is unforgettable.

Sightings are never guaranteed, so patience is part of the thrill. The hide is an optional extra on our Transylvania Experience, and our Brown Bear Experience is built entirely around it. It runs from May to October.

9. Step Back in Time at the ASTRA Museum

Just outside Sibiu, the ASTRA Museum is one of the largest open-air museums in Europe. Meanwhile, traditional houses, mills and workshops from across Romania are scattered through the forest. You can walk inside many of them.

It is a fascinating look at rural life as it used to be. In addition, it is a relaxed walk after a busy day of sightseeing.

10. Drive the Transfăgărășan Across Transylvania

For a true adventure travel drive, head to the Transfăgărășan. In fact, this spectacular mountain road twists through the Carpathians up to Balea Lake. It is considered one of the great driving roads in the world.

It is usually open only in the warmer months, so plan your trip for summer. Stop often, because every bend reveals another view. The scenery is simply spectacular.

See Transylvania With Untravelled Paths

Our Transylvania Experience brings the best of the region together in seven nights. You travel with a local guide, so you can enjoy the stories without the stress of planning. Meanwhile, departures run through spring, summer and autumn.

Highlights include:

• Bran Castle and the medieval Saxon towns of Brașov, Sighișoara and Sibiu
• Village life in Viscri
• The Libearty Bear Sanctuary
• Peleș Castle and the ASTRA Museum
• An optional wild bear hide

Prefer a shorter trip?

If you have less time, try our Dracula Experience. It covers Bran Castle, Sighișoara and more in just five days. Alternatively, our Brown Bear Experience focuses on wildlife.

Ready to explore Transylvania?

Places are limited, so do not wait too long. Browse all our Transylvania trips, or view the Transylvania Experience to see the full itinerary.

Written by James Chisnall