If you’re visiting Bucharest, you’ll find that there are plenty of things to do in the city. However, Romania is a beautiful country with much more to explore beyond the capital. From stunning castles to charming medieval towns, there are many day trips you can take from Bucharest to discover the hidden gems of Romania. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the seven best day trips from Bucharest.
Peleș Castle: A Fairytale-Like Palace
Peleș Castle is one of the most beautiful castles in Europe, and it’s only a two-hour drive from Bucharest. This fairytale-like palace was built in the late 19th century and was the summer residence of the Romanian Royal Family until 1947. The castle’s interior is just as impressive as its exterior, with intricate wood carvings, stained glass windows, and impressive collections of art and weaponry.
Bran Castle: Dracula’s Castle
Bran Castle is located near the city of Brașov, about three hours away from Bucharest. This Gothic castle is often associated with the legend of Dracula and is a popular tourist attraction in Romania. It’s said that Bram Stoker, the author of Dracula, used Bran Castle as the inspiration for the vampire’s castle in his novel. The castle now houses a museum showcasing the history of the region.
Sinaia: The Carpathian Pearl
Sinaia is a charming mountain resort town located about two hours away from Bucharest. It’s nestled in the Carpathian Mountains and is often referred to as “The Carpathian Pearl.” The town is famous for its stunning natural scenery, as well as the Peleș Castle and the Sinaia Monastery. In the winter, Sinaia is also a popular skiing destination.
Brașov: The City of Legends
Brașov is a medieval city located about three hours away from Bucharest. It’s surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains and is known for its charming architecture and vibrant cultural scene. One of the city’s most iconic landmarks is the Black Church, a Gothic church that took more than 200 years to build. The city also has a rich history and is home to many museums and art galleries.
Snagov Monastery: A Place of Legends
Snagov Monastery is located on an island in Snagov Lake, about an hour away from Bucharest. The monastery is believed to be the burial place of Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration for the legend of Dracula. The island is accessible by boat, and visitors can explore the monastery’s interior, which is decorated with beautiful frescoes.
Curtea de Argeș: A Medieval Town
Curtea de Argeș is a medieval town located about two and a half hours away from Bucharest. It’s known for its stunning architecture, including the Curtea de Argeș Monastery and the Princely Church, both of which date back to the 14th century. The town is also home to the ruins of the Old Court, which was the residence of the Wallachian princes in the 14th century.
Giurgiu: A Gateway to Bulgaria
Giurgiu is a small city located on the banks of the Danube River, about an hour away from Bucharest. It’s a popular destination for day trips, as it’s the gateway to Bulgaria. Visitors can cross the Danube River on the Friendship Bridge and explore the nearby Bulgarian city of Ruse. In Giurgiu itself, there are several historical landmarks to see, such as the Clock Tower and the Church of St. Nicholas.
Conclusion
Bucharest is a fantastic city to visit, but there’s so much more to explore in Romania beyond the capital. These seven day trips are just a few examples of the hidden gems you can discover in this beautiful country. From fairytale castles to charming medieval towns, each destination offers a unique experience. So why not venture out of the city and discover the wonders of Romania for yourself?
FAQs
- How long does it take to visit Peleș Castle? It usually takes about 2-3 hours to visit Peleș Castle, including the interior and the surrounding gardens.
- Is Bran Castle really Dracula’s Castle? While Bran Castle is often associated with the legend of Dracula, there’s no evidence that Vlad the Impaler (the inspiration for the legend) ever lived there.
- How far is Sinaia from Bucharest? Sinaia is about 2 hours away from Bucharest by car or train.
- Can you visit Ruse, Bulgaria from Giurgiu? Yes, visitors can cross the Danube River from Giurgiu to Ruse on the Friendship Bridge.
- What’s the best time of year to visit Romania? The best time to visit Romania is in the spring or autumn, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.