Hi all! I am looking for some reputable tour groups to see Dracula's castles. This is something I have wanted to do since I was a kid (and no, I mean the real Vlad, not necessarily the mythical vampire) I want to see Poenari Castle and the monastery, primarily, but will see Bran Castle too if it comes in the package. Since I'm trying to plan a week trip between Hungary and Romania I prefer something that is primarily only 2 days long for Romania. Any suggestions of reputable groups? Anyone done these tours? Reccomendations for traveling Romania? Thanks,
Laura
Posted by
Westminster
53 posts
Laura, unfortunately I don't have any input for you. This is something I have been interested in as well but have focused my planning into doing it myself. I am curious if you find a tour group that can provide a reasonable set up. I'll be keeping any eye on this one. Great post. :)
Posted by
Magyarország / Rep of Texas
17891 posts
You will enjoy the tour!! We didn't go to Romania for Dracula, but the real Vlad is woven into the fabric of the land and you cant help but learn the real story if you spend time in Romania. The guide is a gentleman named Daniel Gheorghita. We've known him for about 5 years now and have sent a couple of our guests to him and they all came back with complements. He will even pick you up in Budapest if you would like. Daniel's Email covinnus@covinnus.com and website http://covinnus.com/ Have a blast!!!
Got all of your plans together for Budapest?
Posted by
OP
Rossburg, OH
6 posts
Thanks so much for the quick feedback and even providing a name! I will make sure to contact him. I am still in very early planning stages, so any additional feedback, suggestions is much appreciated. Thank you again!!!!
Posted by
Magyarország / Rep of Texas
17891 posts
By the way, you will need a minimum of three full days, they will be worth the effort. Also, Daniel isn't a tour group, he is a private guide. Daniel, the car, all expenses including the hotel room (but no food) will run $350 to $450 a day.
Posted by
San Diego
1540 posts
I was on a Gate1 tour of Romania in May and we visited 4 castles there were homes to Vlad (Dracula) at some point in his life. I found Bran Castle to be the best (it was a more complete bldg. with gardens, some furnishings and lots of clothing displays) Some of the others were just empty structures and some were in ruins or crumbling conditions. The history of Vald was indeed very interesting.
I noticed that there were several small day trips/local tours avail. at all the locations. The guides at the "castles" were all very good - spoke excellent English and knew a lot of history.
Posted by
Paris
9560 posts
Just an observation that I would guess it would be tough to do that in only two days. It's been a long time since I've been in Transylvania, and I'm sure the transport has improved somewhat, but these are pretty big distances.
Posted by
Magyarország / Rep of Texas
17891 posts
You also asked for recommendations when traveling in Romania. First recommendation is relax. Its a great place full of really, really nice people who have not yet been beaten down by tourists. Second, hire Daniel or some one as good. It's well worth the money and it isn't very expensive. Third, take advantage of where you are in the world and make s second stop in a place like Bulgaria or my favorite Budapest. Budapest is a great environment to unwind and discuss what you saw and did in Romania; and Vlad was once imprisoned in the Buda Castel. I know Daniel will drive you through to Budapest and its a great trip. I also believe he is going into Bulgaria these days if that interests you. Hope that helps a little.