Exploring Transylvania - Things to do?

Would you like to visit Transylvania in 2023? Transylvania is a fairytale land of pine–veiled valleys, gothic fortresses, and villages untouched by time.

Transylvania is an Eastern European region shrouded in mystery. It is a historical region in central Romania that is popular for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and vampire and Dracula legends. Transylvania is lodged in Romania’s Ministry of green heart and cradled by the Carpathian Mountains.

Transylvania has long occupied the darker corners of the human imagination. In this blog, we’ll let you know why Transylvania is famous, the history of this region, what are the best places, and what renowned tourist attractions so that you can plan your trip accordingly.

History of Transylvania

This remote destination is most famous for being the home of Vlad the Impaler, the 15th-century ruler of Wallachia. Earning the nickname for his gruesome method of dispatching his enemies, some regard the prince as a national hero while others a savage tyrant. But the gothic novelist Bram Stoker was the inspiration for one of the literature’s most infamous and enduring characters, Count Dracula.

Shadowy folklore has soaked deep into the soil of this region, but before you drape a string of garlic around your neck, take comfort in visitors who journey to Transylvania to discover more than just dark legends. From the Romans to the Saxons, Transylvania’s many conquerors have left their cultural marks.

Things to do in Transylvania

Here are some activities available in Transylvania:

Visit the following medieval cities:

Several medieval cities, including Brașov,Sibiu,Sighișoara and Cluj-Napoca, can be found in Transylvania. These cities are rich in historical sites, museums, and stunning architecture.

Investigate the Fortified Churches

Transylvania's fortified churches are a UNESCO World Heritage site and a distinctive region feature. The German Saxons who settled in the area during the Middle Ages built them.

Visit Peles Castle

Peles Castle is a Neo-Renaissance castle located in the town of Sinaia in Romania. It was built between 1873 and 1914 at the request of King Carol I of Romania as a summer residence for the royal family. The castle is known for its stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and extensive art collections.

The castle was designed by a team of architects led by Johannes Schultz, and it features a blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements. It has 160 rooms, including a concert hall, a theater, and several galleries displaying works of art.

Peles Castle is also known for its extensive collections of art and artifacts, including paintings, sculptures, furniture, and tapestries. The castle's collection of armor is one of the most significant in Europe, with over 4,000 pieces.

Today, Peles Castle is open to the public as a museum, and visitors can explore many of its rooms and galleries. The castle and its surroundings are a popular tourist destination in Romania and a symbol of the country's rich cultural heritage.

Take a scenic drive

Transylvania is known for its beautiful landscapes, and you can take several scenic drives to explore the region's natural beauty. The Transfagarasan Highway and the Transalpina Road are two of the most popular routes.

Try Local Cuisine:

Transylvania has a distinct culinary tradition influenced by its diverse cultural heritage. Sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), mici (grilled sausages), and papanași are some of the most popular dishes (a type of doughnut).

Attend a festival:

Throughout the year, Transylvania hosts festivals celebrating everything from medieval history to contemporary music. Examples include the Medieval Festival in Sighisoara, the Transylvania International Film Festival in Cluj-Napoca, and the Electric Castle music festival.

Tourist Attraction in Transylvania:

Transylvania is one of the best places to visit, and consider it on your travel bucket list because many such places will surprise you, and you will love to see them again and again.

Saxon Villages

Transylvania's Saxon Villages are a fascinating example of rural life in Eastern Europe and these are also an amazing attraction for tourists. Germanic settlers who came to the region to farm and trade founded these villages in the 12th century. Over time, they built an extensive network of fortified churches, fortified walls, and towers to protect themselves from Tartars and other invaders.

The Saxon Villages were mostly self-sufficient, with a focus on agriculture, animal husbandry, and craftsmanship. The villagers grew their own food, clothing, and household goods and traded with neighboring towns for items they couldn't produce.

The Saxon Villages' architecture is also noteworthy, with many of the structures dating back to the Middle Ages. The houses are usually made of wood or stone, and they have steeply pitched roofs and ornate wooden balconies. The fortified churches that serve as the focal point of each village are Gothic in style, with impressive frescoes and ornate altars.

Brașov

This medieval city is one of Transylvania's most popular tourist destinations. The Black Church, the Council Square, and the Brasov Citadel are all historical landmarks.

Sighișoara

Sighisoara is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of Europe's best-preserved medieval towns. It was the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, who inspired Bram Stoker's Dracula.

Cluj-Napoca

A cultural hub of Transylvania, this vibrant university city has a lively nightlife, beautiful architecture, and several museums and galleries.

Sibiu

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this medieval town is a must-see for history and architecture buffs. It is home to several historical sites, including the Brukenthal Palace, the Evangelical Church, and the Council of Europe.

Bran Castle

Bran Castle is often associated with Dracula because it is thought to have inspired Bram Stoker's famous novel. The castle is open to the people and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

This iconic castle is often associated with Dracula and is a popular Transylvanian tourist attraction. It is situated in the Carpathian Mountains and provides breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Biertan

This fortified church is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Transylvania's most beautiful examples of Saxon architecture. It is in a picturesque village and a must-see for history and architecture buffs.

Apuseni Mountains

These mountains are home to some of Transylvania's most breathtaking landscapes. It has several national parks, nature reserves, and hiking trails, making it a must-see for outdoor enthusiasts.

Best time to visit Transylvania:

Your interests and preferences will determine the best time to visit Transylvania. Here's a breakdown of Transylvania's seasons and what they have to offer:

Summer (June to August) is Transylvania's busiest tourist season. The weather is pleasant and sunny, and numerous outdoor activities are available, such as hiking, cycling, and visiting historical sites. The countryside is green and lush, and festivals and events, such as the Medieval Festival in Sighisoara and the Brasov Summer Festival, occur during this time.

Fall (September to November) - If you enjoy autumn colors and cooler temperatures, this is an excellent time to visit Transylvania. The countryside is vibrantly colored in yellow, orange, and red, making it ideal for nature walks and scenic drives. The wine harvest takes place during this time, and you can visit local wineries and sample some of Romania's best wines.

Winter (December to February) - If you enjoy winter sports and Christmas markets, this is a magical time to visit Transylvania. Skiing, snowboarding, and ice skating are popular mountain winter activities. Traditional food, drinks, and handcrafted gifts are available at the Christmas markets in Brasov and Sibiu.

Spring (March to May) - If you want to avoid crowds and enjoy the mild weather, this is the best time to visit Transylvania. The countryside is blooming, with wildflowers and cherry blossoms in the valleys and hills. Easter is a major holiday in Romania, and you can enjoy traditional customs and festivities.

Conclusion

Transylvania is a diverse region with a mix of Romanian, Hungarian, and German cultures, providing visitors worldwide with a unique and fascinating experience. Transylvania is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Romania, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and unique cultural heritage.