Exploring Transylvania highlights during the winter can feel a lot like stepping into the pages of a fairytale full of adventures, medieval castles, idyllic scenery, and old-world charm.
To help you get that experience we’ve rounded up four amazing Transylvania highlights where you can get fully immersed in the region’s one-of-a-kind wintery charm.
If Romania is a destination you are considering for your next vacation, then this information will come in handy.
Moreover, Transylvania was declared one of the top places to visit by European Best Destinations.
1. Cluj-Napoca
Start your adventure in Cluj-Napoca – the gateway to Transylvania – a city with a lively atmosphere, gorgeous architecture, and mysterious allure.
Don’t leave without checking out the St. Michael’s Cathedral just near Unirii Square, where you can also find an imposing stone and bronze monument honoring King Matthias Corvinus.
Tailor Bastion ruins featuring a 15th-century fortification wall and tower are also worth paying a visit, as is the Matthias Corvinus House, one of the oldest buildings in Cluj-Napoca.
The city also has a vibrant restaurant scene, making it a great place for you to indulge in some traditional winter comfort food. We recommend you try the famous local specialty varza à la Cluj (a type of deconstructed cabbage rolls).
It’s delicious.
2. Sighisoara
After Cluj Napoca, you can head towards Sighisoara, the most well-preserved inhabited citadel in Europe, whose old center is a UNESCO Heritage Site.
Surrounded by forested hills, this postcard-perfect medieval town is also the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler (a former Romanian ruler and the main inspiration behind Bram Stoker’s Count Dracula character).
You’ll love wandering through the city’s cobbled, narrow streets, being in awe of its centuries-old churches and towers. Stop to notice the smell of roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, and sugar-coated apples in the air.
The city is full of attractions, and the best way to make the most out of your time here is to book a tour. We recommend our 2-day tour for an authentic Transylvania experience.
3. Sibiu
With its stunning Germanic architecture, a maze of cobblestone streets, medieval ruins, and baroque squares, Sibiu is pretty much an open-air museum.
Here are some attractions you’ll come across in the city’s historical center:
- The Large Square,
- The Small Square with the picturesque Liars Bridge,
- The old fortifications of the city,
- The 13th-century Council Tower.
You’ll love walking around in the idyllic Old Town; there is something to see at every corner. And everything looks even better with snow.
4. Brasov
We couldn’t talk about Transylvania highlights and leave the medieval city of Brasov out of the list. Resting at the foot of the Carpathian Mountains, the city is surrounded by fairytale landscapes which become truly magical when the snow starts to fall.
Get on top of the hills and mountains which circle the city for the best views.
In addition to natural wonders, Brasov is also home to a few impressive monumental landmarks, such as:
- The Council Square,
- The Council Tower,
- The famous Black Church (which is the largest Gothic construction in the Eastern part of Europe).
What’s more, the famous Dracula’s Castle is located just near Brasov, so why not add a visit to the mysterious castle to your travel list?
Or better yet, book our Two Castles in One Day Tour and visit both the Peles Castle and Bran Castle (Dracula’s Castle) within 12 hours.
Excited to Explore these Transylvania Highlights?
We hope you enjoyed learning about these Transylvania highlights – and that it has inspired you to travel to this legendary land. You will be dazzled by the charm of the place and the beauty with which it was bestowed.
Contact us if you need more information about any of the tours we’ve included in this article. We can help you plan your dream vacation.