Go on our amazing holidays in Romania 2025. Choose a special itinerary, designed for you and your students. This 11-days Study Trip is a special edition of our tours, blending places related to Vlad the Impaler with important historical and cultural landmarks. Discover all the dark legends and learn more about our customs and traditions.

Highlights of our study holidays in Romania 2025 include Dracula related places such as Sighisoara Citadel, the ruler's birthplace. You will also visit Bran Castle, Transylvania's symbol, also known as Dracula's Castle thanks to Bram Stoker's novel. In addition to these, your itinerary includes traditional mountain villages, where you can admire picturesque views and meet unique craftsmen. Discover our customs and traditions at the source. Experience an unforgettable steam train ride across Vaser Valley and visit unique places such as the Scarisoara Cave, which hosts the largest underground glacier in Romania.

Holidays in Romania 2025 - Study Trip Highlights:

Steam Train on Vaser Valley – discover an area devoid by human population.

Snagov Monastery – where, according to the legend, Vlad the Impaler was buried after his assassination.

Targoviste, former capital of Walachia County situated on the right bank of Ialomita River, home of Vlad Tepes old court.

The Medieval Saxon city of Brasov – it was here that Vlad led raids against the Saxon merchants

Bran Castle – also known as Dracula’s Castle, a legendary Transylvanian fortress dating back to 1377.

Sighisoara Medieval Citadel – the best preserved and still inhabited medieval citadel in Eastern Europe with a UNESCO World Heritage status, Vlad the Impaler’s birth place

Poienari Fortress* – Vlad’s old and faithful citadel perched high on a cliff, more than 1,000 stairs to climb.

*Please have in mind that Poienari citadel is currently closed due to some infrastructure works

Sibiu – one of Romania’s most beautiful medieval cities, the former European capital of Culture in 2007, and the place where Vlad’s son is buried

Romania’s most wonderful caves: Pestera Valea Cetatii Cave ( The Valley of the Citadel cave), Meziad cave, Pestera Ursilor (Bear’s cave), Pestera Scarisoara (Scarisoara’s cave)

Babele and Sphinx – the most popular tourist destination from the country , can be reached by cable car. A lot of walking trails are available.

Study Trip - Holidays in Romania 2025 Brief itinerary

Our English speaking guide picks you up from Bucharest airport. After that, drive to Snagov. Visit the famous Snagov Monastery, build on an island in the middle of Snagov Lake. Allegedly, Dracula’s body was buried here after his death. After visiting the monastery, return to Bucharest and accommodate in a centrally located 3* hotel.

Your holidays in Romania 2025 continue with Targoviste. Here, you will visit the ruins of Vlad Tepes’ old court. From here, drive to Sinaia and visit Peles Castle, a stunning palace which used to serve as royal residence. After that, head for Bran Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle thanks to Bram Stoker’s novel. Visit the castle and then drive to Brasov. Enjoy a delicious dinner and then attend ‘Dracula’s Wedding’, a non-verbal show played by professional actors.

During your Study Trip, visit impressive places in the vicinity of Bran. Admire the Valley of the Citadel Cave and Rasnov Citadel from outside. After that, discover Bat’s Cave. On the next day of your holidays in Romania 2025, visit Poienari Citadel*, Dracula’s old fortress. Make sure you’re physically prepared, because you need to climb over 1400 stairs to reach the top. However, the view from above makes the entire effort worth it. From here, head for your next objective, Curtea de Arges Monastery.

*Please have in mind that Poienari citadel is currently closed due to some infrastructure works

Continue your tour in Sibiel. Visit the Village Museum and then drive to Sighisoara Medieval Citadel, Dracula’s birthplace. Visit the Clock Tower museum and the Medieval Weapons Collection. After that, head for Turda, home of the famous Salt Mine. Descend into the mine and visit the old galleries and then accommodate in a 4* Dracula themed hotel. Enjoy a vampire menu for dinner.

Holidays in Romania 2025 – Discover Apuseni Mountains

In the next part of your study trip Romania, discover Apuseni Mountains. First of all, visit unique caves such as Bear’s Cave, Meziad Cave or Scarisoara Cave. Accommodate at a local guest house. The next day begins with a visit at one of the most spectacular caves in Apuseni, Huda lui Papara. Next, you'll enjoy a stunning scenery, following the steps of Jonathan Harker (Bram Stoker 's character from Dracula novel) to Bistrita close to Borgo Pass. Accommodate in 4* hotel - Golden Crown

In the morning, drive to Sacel. Meet a traditional wood-craftsman who will teach you how to make the perfect wooden stake. After that, we included an optional visit to the Merry Cemetery. Unique in the entire world, the cemetery is famous because of the funny epitaphs carved on the wooden crosses. Each cross also depicts the deceased in a cartoon like manner. Return to Sacel and accommodate in a 3* pension.

Your next holidays in Romania 2025 destination is Vaser Valley. Enjoy a unique experience, a reminder of past times. You will go on a 50 km travel with a Steam Train (known as Mocanita in Romania). Admire the amazing scenery around you. Take your time and snap some photos, since the train is designed to run at a slow speed. Complete your train ride and then spend the night in Sacel. After that, head for Cluj-Napoca, where our guide drops you off at your booked hotel or at the airport.

This is an overview of your tour. For more information, please scroll up and then use the product menu to navigate and discover the complete itinerary, inclusions, exclusions and other details.

Book now!

Book this tour now and then enjoy an unforgettable tour in Transylvania, the land of Dracula!

We accept MasterCard and Visa on our on-line secure internet payment form.

• MasterCard and Visa via fax and phone.
• We also accept payments via PayPal and bank transfer.

• At the moment of booking we require an advance deposit in the amount of Euro 145/person. Once the advance deposit is registered with our accounts we issue a Confirmation Letter.
•  The final payment is due 60 days prior to tour departure. Should the booking be made within 60 days prior to tour departure, entire tour cost is requested at the time of booking.

Departures:

Why to choose a private escorted tour

• It is more comfortable
• Flexible
• Time saving
• You can decide the pace of the tour
• Having a tour guide helps you to have a more genuine experience

Available for free if:
You don’t have a reflection in the mirror,
You decompose when sunlight strikes you,
You’re over 200 years old,
Can use your wings to fly to Transylvania,
Well, this holiday is free for you! Come join your fellow vampires in Transylvania:-)
Blood treats not included!

Other mentions

• Once you realize the price of good beer and wine you will probably not want to return to your country.
• People speak plenty of English in Romania and you will find the locals and the other tourists are friendly and open.
• No visa is required and you can get green card extension insurance from your insurer to cover Romania.

Transylvania's Undying Legend - 11-Days Study Trip Itinerary Map

FAQ

Were Transylvania Live’s holidays in Romania 2025 placed in a TOP 10 Must-Do Adventures by Fodor travel guide?

Transylvania Live was placed in the Top 10 Must-Do Adventures by Fodor's Travel Guide. Specifically, the operator's Best of Transylvania and Romania-Dracula tour was recognized for its unique experiences. This tour allows travelers to explore the mysterious and historical sites of Transylvania, such as Dracula's Castle from Bran Castle, Corvin Castle, the medieval citadels from Sighisoara, Dracula’s birthplace, Brasov and Sibiu (European capital of Culture in 2007).

The recognition in Fodor's highlights the tour's appeal to those interested in adventure, history, and folklore, offering a memorable journey through one of Europe's most intriguing regions.

Were the Transylvania Live holidays in Romania 2025 named winner of "Tour of the year" award by Tour radar?

Transylvania Live was named the "Tour of the Year" by Tour Radar in 2017. The award recognized their tours, which is a popular itinerary that takes travelers through the gothic landscapes of Transylvania, visiting famous castles, including Bran Castle (aka Dracula’s Castle from Transylvania) and other key locations related to Romania’s legends and folklore.

This award highlighted the unique and immersive nature of their tours, especially those focused on themes like Dracula and Romanian history.

What academics think about Transylvania Live’s holidays in Romania 2025?

Professor Duncan Light, from Bournemouth University, expert in Dark Tourism and author of the book “The Dracula Dilemma” describes Transylvania Live:
 Your company is one of the few that understands the Western market for Dracula.

Your product appears to be very innovative! For many Romanians Dracula means Vlad Tepes but for people from the UK, America etc. it means of course the vampire Dracula.

I agree with those people who say that Dracula is a way to get foreign tourists into Romania creating an opportunity to show them all the other things the country can offer.

Was Transylvania live featured in media and magazines?

Transylvania Live has been featured in various media outlets and magazines due to the popularity and uniqueness of their tours, especially those centered around Romania's Dracula legends and the region's rich history. Some of the notable features include:

1. Fodor's Travel Guide - Transylvania Live’s Dracula tour was included in the Top 10 Must-Do Adventures.
2. National Geographic - The operator has been featured in National Geographic, which recognized the company for offering some of the best thematic tours related to Romania’s Dracula legend and historical castles.
3. Lonely Planet - Transylvania Live was mentioned in Lonely Planet as a recommended tour operator for those seeking a deep dive into Europe’s culture and gothic legends.
4. BBC - Transylvania Live has also been featured in BBC documentaries and travel segments, particularly for its Dracula-themed tours, which bring visitors to the legendary castles and landmarks tied to Bram Stoker's famous novel.
5. Irish Times - Transylvania Live was featured in travel section, with a focus on its unique experiences in Transylvania, exploring castles, folklore, and local history.
6. Travel Channel  - Ritual Killing of a Living Dead, the happening that Transylvania Live is offering for Dracula tours goers, was a source of inspiration for Mysterious Journeys, a production company working for Travel Channel
7. Chicago Tribune - The “Transylvanian Fall Foliage Special Tour” hits the highlights of the region, visiting man-made and natural wonders such as Bucharest’s massive Parliament Palace, Bran Castle, the Merry Cemetery and the Apuseni Mountains, as well as the medieval citadel
8. Los Angeles Times - Tours, shows and celebrations follow the footsteps of Bram Stoker’s novel character, Count Dracula.
9. Deutsche Welle - Dracula-Tourism is of course greatest in Transylvania on October 31st. 
10. Travel Channel - The Thrill Seekers Guide, a program transmitted on Travel Channel filmed Transylvania Live ‘s Motorcycles Tours in Transylvania

These mentions have helped solidify Transylvania Live as a key tour operator offering a mix of adventure, history, and cultural exploration in Romania.

Why Transylvania Live’s Dracula tours are better than others?

• Transylvania Live Dracula Tours, besides offering Dracula themed accommodation and visit to the main landmarks related to Dracula in Transylvania, include special events, like Ritual Killing of a Living Dead, that create that special atmosphere for which tour goers decide to book a Dracula tour

• Our Halloween Dracula tours include in house organized Halloween parties where magicians perform, professional ballet dancers show the Vampire Hunting, there is the Ritual Killing of a Living Dead, contests, 3 course meals and open bar with alcoholic and soft drinks.

• When you compare prices with other companies tours you will realize that for similar prices we offer good quality for the money, providing in plus half board. The meals that we include are meant to offer a taste of Romanian, Hungarian and German cuisine, all the main ethnic groups living in Transylvania.

• Plus, a Vampire dinner in a Dracula saloon with Dracula’s specialties that did not appear in the menu.
• We use our own local guides rather than people flown in from abroad. Not only is this better for the planet, it will be more enjoyable and insightful too!

Media Mentions

• We’re pleased to say that Transylvania Live has recently garnered the attention of several publications and broadcasts
more details here

Halloween in Transylvania with Transylvania Live in the news

Activate Captions for English subtitles!

Awarded 7-Days Halloween in Transylvania - Highlights

Advice for US citizens traveling in Romania

Before you go write down contact details for the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate to carry with you in case of emergency while traveling.
US Embassy in Romania
4-6, Dr. Liviu Librescu Blvd.
District 1, Bucharest
015118 Romania
Telephone: (+40) 21 200-3300
https://ro.usembassy.gov/

Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel, and check exchange rates.
Some banks are blocking your credit card payment when a transaction occur from abroad.

Safeguard Your Documents!

Make two copies of all your travel documents in case of emergency. Leave one copy with a trusted friend or relative at home and carry the other separately from your original documents. To help prevent theft, do not carry your passport in your back pocket, and keep it separate from your money.

Passport Validity
Three months beyond departure date. We recommend a minimum of six months validity after entry date

• Children’s passports: Passports issued for children under age 16 are valid for only five years, not 10 years like adult passports. Check passport expiration dates carefully and renew early.

Visas
Not required for stays under 90 days

Consent for Travel with Minors
 If you are traveling alone with children, foreign border officials may require custody documents or notarized written consent from the other parent.
Health Insurance: Many foreign medical facilities and providers require cash payment up front and do not accept U.S. insurance plans. Medicare does not provide coverage outside of the United States. Check your U.S. health care policy to see if it will cover you overseas. If not, consider buying supplemental insurance. Make sure the insurance you purchase covers any special medical needs or risks you anticipate on your trip.

Currency restrictions
Entry: Amounts over 10,000 Euros or equivalent must be declared
For exit:  Amounts over 10,000 Euros or equivalent must be declared

Safety
There were no terrorist acts in Romania.
However credible information indicates terrorist groups continue plotting attacks in Europe. All European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations.

The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules [with regards to best practices and safety inspections] are regularly enforced, though some tourism-related activities (such as rock climbing and extreme sports) are less regulated than in the U.S. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available in near major cities.

Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. Medical treatment in Romania is not up to western standards. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance

Crime

Reported types of crime include:
• Robbery, pick pocketing, internet scams, and credit card fraud are the most commonly reported crimes.
• Organized groups of criminals, sometimes including minors, operate in train stations, trains, subways, and busses.
• Money exchange schemes often involve individuals posing as plainclothes policemen who approach you, flash a badge, and ask for your passport and wallet. Insist on the presence of a uniformed police officer and request that any issues be resolved at the police station.
• If traveling on an overnight train, travel with a companion and in the highest class available.
• Do not leave your personal belongings unattended; stow them securely out of sight.
• Use ATMs located inside banks. You should check ATM machines for any evidence of tampering before use.
• Be extra cautious of your surroundings if using an internet café.
• Use cash wherever possible in lieu of credit cards.

Laws
Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.
Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law.
Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately.
Special Circumstances:
• Romania is situated in a seismically active region and has a history of devastating earthquakes, with the greatest risk occurring in Bucharest.
• Mountainous areas of the country can be subject to torrential rains and flash floods, especially in the spring and summer months.
• Streets and sidewalks are often icy and hazardous during winter.
• Avoid contact with stray dogs.
• Travelers’ checks are of limited use, but ATMs (“bancomats” in Romanian) are widely available.

LGBT Travelers
 There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Romania. However, the annual gay pride parades in Bucharest have been the scene of violent protests in past years.

Health
Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.

Medical Insurance
 Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.
Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription.
• Basic medical supplies are limited in Romania, especially outside of major cities.
• Hospitals often lack nursing care and assistance for the elderly.
• Most prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications are available in Romania but are often sold under different names.
• Response times for emergency services vary widely depending on the region of the country and nature of emergency.
It is strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.

Road Conditions and Safety
 Though Romanian traffic laws are very strict, road accidents are a real and dangerous threat for U.S. citizens visiting Romania. According to the European Union Road Federation, Romania has the highest per-vehicle rate of road fatalities of any country in the EU, a rate similar with USA.

If you chose to drive in Romania, practice defensive driving techniques.
While major streets in larger cities and major inter-city roads are generally in fair to good condition, many secondary roads are in poor repair, unpaved, poorly lit, narrow, and lacking marked lanes.
• Mountain roads are particularly dangerous when wet or covered with snow or ice. Winter snow removal is intermittent.
• It is common for pedestrians, animals, cyclists, and horse-drawn carts to share a road with motor vehicles, especially in rural areas.
• Parked vehicles often block sidewalks, forcing pedestrians to walk in the streets.
• Cross only at crosswalks and exercise vigilance as crosswalks are generally poorly marked.
• Local drivers often ignore traffic lights and crosswalk signs.
Maintain vigilance when driving to avoid hitting pedestrians in the streets.
Traffic Laws: Romanian traffic laws are very strict.
• The traffic police can confiscate any form of a driver's license or permit for 1-3 months and request payment of fines at the time of the infraction.
• Police are required to give all drivers involved in an accident a breathalyzer test on the scene.
• Refusal to take a breathalyzer test may result in criminal penalties regardless of whether or not alcohol was involved.
• Wearing a seat belt is mandatory.
• Children under 12 years of age may not be transported in the front seat.
• Use of mobile phones while driving is banned, with exception of hands free systems.

U.S. citizens arriving in Romania for stays up to 90 days may use their U.S. state drivers’ licenses (DL) along with an International Driving Permit. The U.S. Department of State has authorized two organizations to issue international permits to those who hold valid U.S. driver’s licenses: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance.

If entering Romania by vehicle you need to purchase a road tax badge known as “rovinieta” at the border crossing point. Proof of insurance and a car registration document are required when purchasing the "rovinieta." Drivers of vehicles registered abroad who are not in possession of a valid international insurance document must buy short-term insurance at the border.

Roadside help, vehicle assistance, towing services: Dial 9271
Ambulance, fire brigade, police: Dial 112.

For more information https://travel.state.gov/

Please check out the tour itinerary below:

Tour Leader

Professional English speaking guide

Transportation

All transfers inside the tour by microbus or coach, with private driver, depending on the number of the travellers

Accommodation

10 nights:

2 nights in a 4* Hotel, 3 nights in 3* Hotels, 2 nights in Pensions and 3 nights in guest houses

Meals

10 breakfasts and 10 dinners (1 special dinner: dinner with Vampire menu) and 10 packed lunches

Entry fees to

• Snagov Monastery
• The Ruins of Tirgoviste Citadel
• Bran Castle
• Black Church
• Clock Tower, Medieval Weapon Collection and Torture Room in Sighisoara
• Woodcraftsmen in Sacel
• The Village Museum in Sibiu
• Evangelic Church in Sibiu
• Icons on Glass Museum in Sibiel
• Ruins of Poienari Citadel*
• Pestera Valea Cetatii Cave (The Valley of the Citadel cave), Meziad cave, Pestera Ursilor (Bear’s cave), Pestera Scarisoara (Scarisoara’s cave)

*Please keep in mind that Poienari Citadel is currently closed due to some infrastructure works.

Special events

• The Ritual of Killing of a living Dead 
• Dracula’s Wedding 

One place free of charge (single occupancy) for tour conductor.

• plane ticket
• airport fees
• photo & video tax
• other not mentioned.

• Vintage biplane flight in Bucharest
• Flying lesson with a vintage biplane in Bucharest
• Champagne Flight – Helicopter flight for two
• Experience with a rally car in Bucharest
• Vintage Sidecar – Dracula tour from Bucharest
• Spa Day in Bucharest
• Evening at the casino for 2