Bran Castle & Bear Sanctuary from Brasov - Optional Peles Castle
Active
5h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
A highly recommended day trip for where you will discover the biggest brown bear sanctuary in the world and Bran and Peles. Two unique castles starting from Brasov, one of the most beautiful and visited cities in Transylvania.
You will enjoy a guided tour at the Zărnești Bear Sanctuary, a 1-hour easy walk in the forest with views over the national Parks of Bucegi and Piatra Craiului.
In only 30 minutes drive we switch from nature and wildlife to history and to the legend of Count Dracula at the famous Bran Castle. You will be astonished by the new perspective they gain when arriving in these Transylvanian territories and a lot of them find this tour mysterious and educative at the same time.
Last but not least visit as optional you can visit the “Pearl of the Carpathians” at Peles Castle, the summer residence for the Romanian royal family. Peles castle, unknown to most travellers is definitely one of the most beautiful and underrated castles in Europe.
Available options
Bran Castle & Libearty Zarnesti Bear Sanctuary
Pickup included
Bran, Libearty Zarnest& Peles
Peles Castle : Bran Castle & Libearty Zarnesti Bear Sanctuary with the optional extension at the amazing Peles Castle included.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Air-conditioned vehicle
Parking Fees
Detailed itinerary
1
To reach the Bear Sanctuary from Brasov, we drive for 45 minutes through picturesque towns and villages before reaching open countryside and gently rolling hills.
Thanks to the relatively low level of human intervention, Romania is home to 60% of Europe's brown bears.
When we talk about saving bears, we’re not talking so much about the wild Romanian bears, as the ones who have had a terrible existence, held captive by private owners and in small Eastern European zoo enclosures until fairly recently.
This is where the Libearty Bear Sanctuary comes in, re-homing, rehabilitating and giving these captive bears a chance of ending their days in a more natural environment. Zărnești Bear Sanctuary is recognized by many specialists, as the most ethical brown bear sanctuary in the world. The Sanctuary has 69 hectares of oak forest, with trees where the bears can climb, swimming pools where they can splash, food according to their diets studied by the veterinarians and medical care.
2
Stop 2
After we leave the Bear Sanctuary behind, we will immediately be arriving at the most exciting destination for most travellers: The Bran Castle or Dracula's Castle.
If by any chance, you find yourself being a huge fan of Bram Stoker’s novel or you discovered “Dracula” from different cinematographic representations, we will make sure, to offer you a brand new perspective.
You will discover historical insights related to Vlad the Impaler (Țepeș) and the history of the castle which starts over 800 years before and it’s mainly related to the crusades as well as to the Teutonic Knights.
Travelers will be fascinated by the new perspective they gain when arriving on these Transylvanian territories and a lot of them find this tour mysterious and educative at the same time.
What's not included
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
IT
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
5.0
7 reviews
5★
7
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
About Brasov
Brasov is a charming city in Transylvania, surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains. Known for its rich history, medieval architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, it's a perfect blend of past and present. The city is also a gateway to some of Romania's most stunning natural landscapes, including Bran Castle and Piatra Craiului National Park.
Top Attractions
Black Church (Biserica Neagră)
A stunning Gothic-style church, the largest in Romania, known for its impressive architecture and rich history.
Historical/Architectural
1-2 hours
3 EUR
Bran Castle
Often associated with Dracula, this medieval fortress is one of Romania's most famous landmarks.
Historical
3-4 hours
10 EUR
Piatra Craiului National Park
A breathtaking national park with dramatic limestone ridges, ideal for hiking and nature lovers.
Nature
Full day
Free
Rasnov Citadel
A well-preserved medieval fortress offering insights into Transylvanian history and panoramic views.
Historical
2-3 hours
4 EUR
Brasov Old Town
The historic heart of Brasov, filled with colorful buildings, charming squares, and vibrant cafes.
Cultural
Half day
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Sarmale
Cabbage rolls stuffed with a mixture of minced meat, rice, and spices
Main Course
Contains pork and beef
Mici
Grilled minced meat rolls, typically made with a mix of pork, beef, and lamb
Snack
Contains pork, beef, and lamb
Papanasi
Fried dough balls served with sour cream and jam
Dessert
Vegetarian-friendly
Popular Activities
Hiking in Piatra Craiului National Park
Skiing in Poiana Brașov
Coffee at Café Athenaeum
Strolling through Old Town
Visiting Black Church
Exploring Rasnov Citadel
Skiing
Snowboarding
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the busiest time with warm weather and numerous outdoor festivals. Ideal for hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying the vibrant city life.
15°C to 30°C
59°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Romanian
- Widely spoken: English, German, Hungarian
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Romanian Leu (RON)
Time Zone
EET (GMT+2)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Brasov is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with unsolicited offers
Getting there
By air
- Brasov International Airport (GH1) • 12 km from city center
By train
Brasov Railway Station
By bus
Brasov Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and efficient, with frequent services. Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Brasov.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Râșnov
Poiana Brașov
Day trips
Bran Castle
30 km • Half day
Explore the famous Bran Castle, often associated with Dracula, and enjoy the scenic surroundings.
Piatra Craiului National Park
20 km • Full day
Hike through stunning landscapes and enjoy the natural beauty of this national park.
Râșnov
15 km • Half day
Visit the historic Rasnov Citadel and enjoy the scenic views and outdoor activities.
Festivals
Brasov Folk Festival • July
Christmas Market • December
Pro tips
- Visit the Black Church early in the morning to avoid crowds
- Combine a visit to Bran Castle with a hike in Piatra Craiului National Park for a full day of history and nature
- Explore the local markets for unique souvenirs and traditional crafts
- Try traditional Romanian dishes like sarmale and mici at local restaurants
- Use public transport or walk to explore the city center, as it's compact and pedestrian-friendly
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
