Ultimate 7-Day Romanian Road Trip: From Transylvanian Castles to Medieval Towns

Romania offers a captivating mix of medieval architecture, dramatic castles, and untouched wilderness. This carefully planned 7-day journey takes you through the country's most fascinating regions, from Gothic castles to pristine forests and historic cities.

Day 1: Bucharest - The Dynamic Capital

Begin in Bucharest exploring the massive Parliament Palace, the world's largest civilian building. Visit the charming Old Town (Lipscani), the Romanian Athenaeum concert hall, and the Village Museum showcasing traditional Romanian architecture. End your day in Cișmigiu Gardens.

Why Bucharest: Romania's capital offers a fascinating blend of Communist-era grandeur, Belle Époque architecture, and modern energy, providing context for understanding Romanian history.

Day 2: Bucharest to Sinaia to Brașov (180 km)

Drive north through the Carpathian Mountains to Sinaia to visit the stunning Peleș Castle, the former summer residence of Romanian royalty. Continue to medieval Brașov to explore its Gothic Black Church and charming Council Square.

Why Sinaia and Brașov: Combines Romania's most beautiful castle with one of Transylvania's best-preserved medieval towns.

Day 3: Brașov to Bran to Sighișoara (150 km)

Visit Bran Castle (known as "Dracula's Castle"), then drive to the UNESCO-listed medieval town of Sighișoara. Explore its colorful citadel, climb the Clock Tower, and visit the alleged birthplace of Vlad the Impaler.

Why Bran and Sighișoara: Offers both the famous vampire legend connection and Europe's best-preserved medieval citadel still inhabited today.

Day 4: Sighișoara to Sibiu (90 km)

Travel to Sibiu, stopping at fortified Saxon churches en route. Explore Sibiu's grand squares, walk across the Bridge of Lies, and visit the ASTRA open-air museum of folk civilization.

Why Sibiu: This former European Capital of Culture showcases Transylvanian Saxon heritage and architecture at its finest.

Day 5: Sibiu to Transfăgărășan Highway to Curtea de Argeș (150 km)

Drive the spectacular Transfăgărășan Highway (summer only) through the Făgăraș Mountains. Visit Bâlea Lake and continue to Curtea de Argeș to see its unique monastery.

Why Transfăgărășan: Named by Top Gear as "the best road in the world," it offers spectacular mountain views and engineering marvel.

Day 6: Curtea de Argeș to Târgoviște to Snagov (200 km)

Visit the ruins of Târgoviște, the former capital of Wallachia. Continue to Snagov Monastery on its island setting, allegedly the burial place of Vlad the Impaler.

Why Târgoviște and Snagov: These sites offer crucial insights into Romanian medieval history and the real story behind the Dracula legend.

Day 7: Snagov to Mogoșoaia to Bucharest (50 km)

Visit Mogoșoaia Palace, a perfect example of Romanian Brâncovenesc architecture. Return to Bucharest for final exploration and traditional dinner in the Old Town.

Why Mogoșoaia: This palace represents the unique Romanian architectural style that blends Ottoman, Venetian, and local elements.

Practical Tips:

Book accommodations in advance
Check road conditions, especially in mountains
Download offline maps
Learn basic Romanian phrases
Carry cash for rural areas
Get comprehensive car insurance
Keep emergency supplies in car
Watch for horse carts on rural roads
Book castle tours ahead
Try local cuisine in each region
Check seasonal road closures
Get an International Driving Permit

What Makes This Route Special

This itinerary captures Romania's diverse essence, from medieval fortifications to Communist-era landmarks. It includes three UNESCO World Heritage sites while balancing urban experiences with rural charm.

The route is carefully designed to showcase Romania's varied landscapes and historical periods. You'll experience everything from Gothic castles to communist architecture, from Saxon towns to Orthodox monasteries. The journey reveals why Romania, often overlooked by tourists, offers some of Europe's most authentic and rewarding experiences.

Each destination has been chosen not just for its individual merit, but for how it contributes to telling Romania's story. Whether you're interested in history, architecture, landscapes, or folklore, this journey provides an authentic Romanian experience.

The itinerary allows flexibility for seasonal variations (especially regarding mountain roads) and combines must-see attractions with lesser-known gems. It offers both first-time visitors and returning travelers an unforgettable exploration of this fascinating country, demonstrating why Romania is becoming an increasingly popular destination for discerning travelers.