Poenari Castle (Cetatea Poenari)

Overview

Poenari Castle, also known as Cetatea Poenari, is a historic fortress nestled in the Transylvania region of Romania. It is famously linked to Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration for Bram Stoker's Dracula. The castle offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into medieval history.

Poenari Castle is significant for its historical connection to Vlad the Impaler and its strategic location in the Transylvania region.

Historical Site Fortress

Location

Address

Transfăgărăşan, Arefu

Neighborhood: Transfăgărășan

Coordinates

45.377700, 24.600000

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

saturday 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM

sunday 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Admission

Adults

20 RON

Children

10 RON

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

June-August

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds, cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

2-3 hours

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild to cool

• flowers
• green landscapes

summer

warm to hot

• extended daylight

autumn

cool to mild

• fall colors

winter

cold to very cold

• snowy landscapes

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book ahead for guided tours
Bring ID
Check weather conditions

What to Bring

essential

ID water comfortable shoes

seasonal

jacket umbrella warm clothes in winter

not allowed

large bags drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

• stairs, steep climb

Medical facilities: first aid available

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, cards

Currency

Romanian Leu (RON)

Typical Costs

entry 20 RON

parking 5 RON

food 20-30 RON

souvenirs 10-50 RON

Dress Code

casual, comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• 1 month
• official website
• 48 hours
• available

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Poenari Castle Guide

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets, Historical facts

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe

Charging Stations: Rest areas

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP)

Distance: 150 km

Travel Time: 2.5 hours

taxi

250 RON 2.5 hours

public_transport

50 RON 3.5 hours

From City Center

Distance: 50 km

bus

20 RON 1 hour

taxi

100 RON 45 minutes

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Historic importance, beautiful views

Historical Significance: Important events related to Vlad the Impaler happened here

Insider Tips

Free entry early morning for locals
Best food at the back entrance cafe

Local Recommendations

• Try local food at the nearby cafes
• Ask for guide John

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Salut

thank_you Mulțumesc

where_is Unde este

how_much Cât costă

beautiful Frumos

ticket Bilet

Guide Languages: Romanian, English, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main entrance

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Low angle for dramatic effect

Result: Great shot of the castle entrance

#PoenariCastle #HistoricalRomania #DraculaCastle

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, main courtyard

prohibited areas restricted sections

flash photography not allowed in all areas

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy prohibited

tripod policy restricted

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Curtea de Argeș Monastery

Distance: 15 km

Walking: N/A

Type: Monastery

Peleș Castle