The 10 most beautiful castles to visit in Transylvania

Discover the castles of Transylvania: charming and mysterious places that immerse us in between fascination and mysticism!

Romania is a confidential destination with lots of surprises. Preserved mass tourism and open to small budgets, it deserves all our interest. It is also imprinted with tales and legends, shaped by the valleys and the many ethnic groups. In the middle of the country, Transylvania is even more evocative of mysteries and wonders. Meaning "beyond the forest" this region divided into several provinces houses an incredible architectural mosaic. This is especially an idyllic destination for lovers of medieval vestiges and wooded valleys. Beyond the legendary fogland and the striking landscapes of national parks, take the time to discover the giants of the past. Follow our guide of the ten most beautiful castles to visit in Transylvania.

1. Bran Castle

If you hear "Transylvania", we are sure that the name Dracula whistle in your ears. Brann Castle is also known to be that of the – glacial – character of Bram Stoker : Dracula. Surrounded by the mountains, raised on a rocky promontory, what other home for this famous vampire?

This fortress is undoubtedly the most famous castle of Transylvania. By penetrating in the strange and blur of the vampire, you discover a museum full of history. The rooms, although small, house a massive amount of marble statues, pottery, woodworks, exiguous corridors and silver weapon pieces.

At the foot of the castle of Dracula, do not miss the historic center of the city of Brașov. Its folklore, its surrounding landscapes, its churches and feudal facades will appeal to your curiosity and delight your mirettes.

2. La Citadelle de Rasnov

Continue your route around the castles of Transylvania by the citadel of Rasnov. Just a few kilometers from the residence of the famous vampire, these restored ruins sit at the top of a rocky piton in the Carpates. All around, the view on the plain is splendid. Indeed, accessible on foot or in funicular, this saxon peasant citadel opens on all the surrounding mountains.

This fortress that was long prospering was thought as a refuge for long periods. This is why to date it has more the face of a village than a fortress. Moreover, the visit of the Citadel of Rasnov looks rather like a contemplative walk in the heart of a city full of cute things. The picturesque streets are surrounded by colorful buildings, while small shops and cafés pullulent between the walls.

3. Peles Castle

If the visit of Dracula's famous fantomatic nest has come to you. You may want to continue your journey in myths. Then go to Peles Castle. This castle in Transylvania was born from the romantic dream King Carol I and of Queen Elizabeth of Hohenzollern .

In the heart of this castle full of poetry, the huge halls follow each other and the ornaments shine with a thousand lights. The crystal chandeliers are reflected in the stained-glass windows and woodwork in oak and walnut as in the first day. Finally, the monumental staircase brings you to another world. The styles blend throughout the walk, which ends in beauty in the gardens junched with sculptures.

Indeed, Peles Castle is at the heart of a lush nature. Large trees give you a thick shadow. The most distinct noise is probably that of the small stream.

4. The castle of Hunedoara or Corvin

Among the castles in Transylvania, here is the most fantasmagorical! Also known as Château des Corvins, this medieval work overlooking the river is of rare elegance. It rises in the heart of a lush nature and opens to the world by a bridge-levis. Its beauty also lies in the exceptional state of conservation of its towers and bastions.

Its interior architecture is also unique and gives it an unprecedented charm. This emblematic monument of Gothic art houses several frescoes, interior courtyards and... enigmatic legends.

As it appeared, the Vlad Tepes account, alias Dracula, would still haunt the walls. Indeed, at what it seems, this castle in Transylvania was his prison for seven years. So between richness, raw beauty and dark and mysterious atmosphere, Corvin's visit is essential.

5. The Fortress of Rupea

At the edge of the road, raised in vigy for centuries and centuries, the elusive fortress of Rupea is crowned. Built on the basaltic rocks, the place impresses with its shredded towers and forms. Discover the place by climbing the paved street from the city centre of Rupea.

As soon as you pass the main door, climb the ramparts and take a look at the ochre roof floor that stretches under your eyes. The opportunity to see how this country flourishes in an ocean of greenery... Do you also see, all endemic flowers that bend to the wind in the surrounding plain?

6. La Citadelle Alba Caroline

It is not really a castle in Transylvania, but impossible not to mention the citadel Alba Carolina. This group of fortification, star-shaped, is a strategic wonder and a true cultural setting. This fortress houses the cathedral of crowning, fortified doors to breath, and museums of history. The photo breaks take place and multiply along the impressive decorative elements in Baroque style.

7. The Fortress of Fagaras

This castle in Transylvania, which is actually a fortress, has undergone centuries of transformation before being what it is. Today, it is a feudal monument among the best preserved in the country.

This former residence of the province’s sovereigns is now home to a museum of Roman artifacts, medieval weapons, crafts and folklore.

8. Banffy Castle

Among the castles in Transylvania, some are more unknown than others. Yet they are just as spectacular. Don't miss Banffy Castle.

Located on the shore of a river, this jewel of Transylvania, with a peaceful atmosphere, is a pearl of baroque architecture. The white and rolling facades contrast with the emerald green of the surrounding nature. The reflection of this feudal home wave peacefully in the lake. Nevertheless, Banffy Castle is much more than a Renaissance vestige. It’s a party venue, as the Electric Castle music festival takes place every year. But also a place full of ghost stories. Apparently, strange phenomena animate this home...

9. The castle of Gornesti

The castles of Transylvania are the work of large families. The castle of Gornesti, in the region of Mures, does not escape the rule. It is also known as the castle of Teleki, the name of the illustrious family that built it. This baroque building was built in the second half of the 18th century on ruins of the Middle Ages. It has dozens of pieces that are among the most beautiful baroque works of Romania. You will also like to stroll around the park, romantic and bathed in the Anglo-Saxon style.

Like some travelu·rses, maybe you will have the chance of a visit guided by the Countess herself. Indeed, this castle of Transylvania is one of the few to have been able to cross the path of its legitimate owners...

10. The Castle of Kornis

Let’s finish this tour of the castles of Transylvania by the ancient aristocratic Kornis. Also known as the "Château des licornes", this castle was once a magnificent monument guarded by two licornes at the entrance. To date, he's in a state of decay.

It is time to take the direction of Romania, and be carried away by the legends that animate the places...