1 Oct 2026

Looking for Christmas markets in Europe that don’t mean fighting through the crowds? The Transylvania Christmas markets in Romania are the answer. Medieval Saxon squares, snow-dusted cobbled streets, mulled wine and a visit to Dracula’s castle, all in one long weekend.

Ask most people to picture a European Christmas market and they’ll describe a busy German square and a long queue for a hot drink. It’s lovely, but you’ve probably seen it before. Transylvania, “the land beyond the forest”, is a very different kind of festive trip.

On our three-night Romania Christmas markets experience, you’ll visit the Christmas markets of Bucharest, Brasov and Sibiu, with two castles along the way. Here’s what to expect.

Bucharest Christmas Market: The Lights Come First

Arrive after dark and the first thing you’ll notice is the lights. The boulevards of Romania’s capital glow all the way to the old town, so your festive trip starts the moment you leave the airport.

You’ll stay in a boutique hotel in the Lipscani district. After a welcome coffee or glass of wine, head straight out to the Bucharest Christmas market.

While you’re here, treat yourself to dinner at Caru Cu Bere, the city’s oldest beer house, for a taste of traditional Romanian food.

Brasov Christmas Market: The Prettiest Tree in Transylvania

The next morning, travel into the heart of Transylvania, stopping at the magnificent Peles Castle on the way. Then comes Brasov and its spectacular Christmas tree, dressed in bright lights against the colourful old Saxon buildings of the main square. It’s arguably the prettiest of the three Christmas markets in Transylvania.

Wander the cobbled streets and the Brasov Christmas market, and warm up in one of the bohemian cafés tucked along the snowy alleys. Or join a walking tour past the Black Church and find the narrowest street in Europe. On a clear day, the cable car up Mount Tampa gives you views over the whole old town square.

Visit Bran Castle: Dracula’s Castle in Winter

On the road to Sibiu, stop at Bran Castle, better known as Dracula’s Castle. Perched high on its hilltop, with narrow corridors and hidden staircases, it’s easy to see why it became the home of the legend. The views over the surrounding countryside are superb too.

The only real fangs in these hills belong to the wildlife. The Carpathian Mountains are home to around 60% of Europe’s brown bear population, so you’re far more likely to bring home a good story than meet a vampire.

Sibiu Christmas Market: Saving the Best Until Last

Sibiu is the fairy-tale finale, and the Sibiu Christmas market is the favourite of most of our guests. The town was European Capital of Culture in 2007, and its medieval square is filled with little stalls, the smell of mulled wine and an ice rink for anyone who fancies a skate.

A local tip: keep the cold at bay with a shot of palinca, the traditional Romanian firewater. It’s strong, so take it steady, and remember the toast: “Noroc!”

Why Choose a Small Group Christmas Market Tour?

Our Transylvania Christmas Markets Experience is limited to 16 people. You get to know your guide and your fellow travellers, and you’re never lost in a crowd. As one guest, Angela, wrote on Trustpilot, it was great to be in a small group, with an excellent guide and driver, a steady pace and plenty of free time.

That balance suits a Christmas market break. You see the markets, castles and old towns with expert local guides, and still have space to wander off for a mulled wine of your own.

Your three-night trip includes:

• All transfers and accommodation (one night each in Bucharest, Brasov and Sibiu)
• Breakfast every morning
• Entry to Peles Castle and Bran Castle
• A bilingual guide
• The Untravelled Paths experience ebooklet

Transylvania Christmas Markets FAQs

How many nights is the Transylvania Christmas markets trip?
Three nights, visiting Bucharest, Brasov and Sibiu.

When can I travel?
There are December 2026 departures on 4-7, 11-14 and 18-21 December.

Are flights included?
No. You fly into Bucharest, and we’re happy to help you find the best flights from the UK and Ireland. On the final day, book a flight home after 5pm so you reach the airport in time.

Do I need a visa for Romania?
UK, EU and US passport holders don’t need a visa for this trip.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 16 people.

Book Your Transylvania Christmas Markets Experience

If you want a Christmas market trip that feels different and a little bit magical, take a look at The Transylvania Christmas Markets Experience and choose your December dates. There are still places on all three departures.

Want to see more of the country? Browse all of our Romania tours and Transylvania trips, or try The Dracula Experience.

Written by James Chisnall