Brasov Private Tour: Transfagarasan road & Poienari Fortress
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Brasov Private Tour: Transfagarasan road & Poienari Fortress

Active
(71 reviews)
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Visit Poienari Fortress, the real Vlad Tepes' Residential Castle and we drive on Transfagarasan highway, built as a strategic military route, is the second-highest paved road in Romania and considered by some to be the most dramatic.

Driving on Transfagarasan Highway as know as "the Road to the Sky", "the Road to the Clouds", "the Best Driving Road in the World" and even "A spectacular Monument to Earth-Moving Megalomania"!

IMPORTANT:
!!!Due to some construction works on the road, the tour might take longer than usual!!!
Transfagarasan road is open in 2024 between June 7 - October 31!

When the Transfagarasan road is closed (November 1 - June 30) we drive up to the Balea Waterfall (no visit of Poienari Fortress and Vidradu Dam). If the weather conditions allows, we take the cable car up to the Balea Lake (extra 20 euro/person). We visit the ruins of the Cistercian Abbey of Carta and the amazing Sambata de Sus Monastery, also.

Available options

1 person

1 person<br/>Duration: 10 hours

Rate for minimum 2 people

Full-Day tour Transfagarasan road and Poienari Fortress from Brasov<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Round-trip transport by air-conditioned car or minivan
Professional guide
Hotel (only from Brasov city) pickup and drop-off

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

!!!Due to some construction works on the road, the tour might take longer than usual!!!
Driving on Transfagarasan Highway as know as "the Road to the Sky", "the Road to the Clouds", "the Best Driving Road in the World" and even "A spectacular Monument to Earth-Moving Megalomania"
IMPORTANT: Transfagarasan road is open between July 1 - October 31!

When the Transfagarasan road is closed (November 1 - June 30) we drive up to the Balea Waterfall (no visit of Poienari Fortress and Vidradu Dam). If the weather conditions allow, we take the cable car up to the Balea Lake (approx. extra 20 euro/person, includes the cable car ticket for the guide, also). We visit the ruins of the Cistercian Abbey of Carta and the amazing Sambata de Sus Monastery, also.

2

We hike to Balea Waterfall - the highest step-waterfall in Romania, more than 60 metres tall.

3
Stop 3

Balea Lac is a natural glacier lake at 2040m, 360 meters long, 240 meters wide and 11 meters deep.

4

It is said that the name "Fagaras" is coming from the word "fagar", an old word which represents a large old beech forest.

In ancient times, the bottom part of the Fagaras Mounatins were covered with Oak forest. Now remains "Dumbrava Vadului", where, among the oak trees, we have daffodils (Narcissus stellaris), locally known as coprine.

In Fagaras Mountains there is "Mioarelor" galcial lake (2282 m), the highest glacial lake in the Carpathian mountains.

In Fagaras Mountains there are 8 of the 14 peaks of the Carpathian mountains that reach the altitude of 2500 m: Moldoveanu (2544 m), Negoiu (2535 m), Coltul Vistei Mari (2527 m), Lespezi (2522 m), Cornu Caltunului (2510 m), Vanatoarea lui Buteanu (2507 m), Hartopu (2506 m) and Dara (2500 m). Here there are over 42 peaks with altitude between 2400 and 2500 m.

5

It was completed in 1966 on the Argeș River and creates Lake Vidraru. The arch dam was built with the primary purpose to produce hydroelectricity. The dam's height is 166 meters, the arch length 305 meters and it can store 465 million cubic meters of water. The reservoir has a total shoreline (perimeter) length of 28 km.

6
Stop 6

Visit Poienari Fortress, the real Vlad Tepes' Residential Castle. Access to the citadel of Poienari is made by climbing the 1,480 concrete stairs.
Poienari Fortress is closed until further notice.

What's not included

Food and drinks
Gratuities
Poienari Fortress

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.8
28 reviews
5★
26
4★
0
3★
1
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor 5.0
43 reviews
5★
42
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Sturdy hiking footwear recommended
Please note - Access to the citadel is made by climbing the 1,480 concrete stairs
IMPORTANT! When the Transfagarasan road is closed (November 1 - June 30) we drive up to the Balea Waterfall (no visit of Poienari Fortress and Vidradu Dam). If the weather conditions allow, we take the cable car up to the Balea Lake (approx. extra 20 euro/person, includes the cable car ticket for the guide, also). We visit the ruins of the Cistercian Abbey of Carta and the amazing Sambata de Sus Monastery, also.
The cable car operates at least 10 people. Tourists have priority over freight shipments. No cargo is carried on Fridays , Saturdays and Sundays. In case of adverse weather conditions we do not assume responsibility. In case of technical failure will be refunded the amount paid. Please keep checking tickets. Thank you for understanding. More info: http://balealac.ro/en/balea-lake-balea-waterfall-cablecar/
!!!Due to some construction works on the road, the tour might take longer than usual!!!
Meeting point: In front of Biblioteca Județeană "George Barițiu", Bulevardul Eroilor 33-35. Please be aware that we provide pick-up and drop-off services exclusively within the city of Brașov, as well as for guests staying outside the old town. The pick-up time will vary based on the location requested. Additionally, we are happy to drop off guests at a different location than the pick-up point for an additional fee.
According to a statement from the Argeș County Council, access to Poienari Fortress will be allowed in organized groups at fixed times, following the schedule below: 9:00 AM / 11:00 AM / 1:00 PM / Last ascent at 3:00 PM
Private group tour - the experience is exclusively for you and your group. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, with family, or with friends, you'll have a dedicated guide and complete flexibility to enjoy the tour at your own pace.

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• Not recommended for pregnant women
• Not recommended for participants with back problems
• Please call 0040728804952 at least 24 hours in advance to confirm hotel pick-up

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

Adults
Age 4-79
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 8
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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