Live your fairytale in these Romanian Castles!

The innumerable castles lined up throughout Romania are a testimony to its rich medieval history. The castles were built mainly for defense purposes but are an epitome of luxury too. Each castle in Romania stands out from others and has its peculiarity. 

Though it is a tough task at hand, we have listed the best 10 castles of Romania. 

Top 10 castles you must visit in Romania

Bran Castle

Bran Castle is probably the most-famous castle around the world owing to its association with the myth of Dracula. Perched on top of a rock and surrounded by thick forest, this castle is located in Transylvania region. Its turrets and red-tiled roof exude a mythical aura. Today, Bran Castle showcases furniture and art collected by Queen Marie. At the base of the hill is a small open-air museum displaying Romanian peasant structures. 

Peleș Castle

Located in the cozy foothills of the Carpathian Mountains, near Sinaia, this castle is a gem of neo-renaissance architecture. This typical fairy-tale castle was built by king Carol-I who was left mesmerized by the scenery of Sinaia and also made it the summer residence. Visit the castle to witness 200 magnificent rooms built in Florentine, Moorish, Turkish, and French-style with elegant attention to details. Today, the castle is also a National Museum hosting an extensive collection of art and artifacts. 

Corvin Castle

Corvin Castle, also known as Hunyadi Castle, is one of the largest castles in all of Europe and features in the list of seven wonders of Romania. Built on a cliff near the Zlaști river, the castle has Gothic-Renaissance architecture. The bridge connecting to the entrance of the castle is a ‘textbook definition’ of a castle. The castle has served as a movie location but features in the list of spookiest buildings around the world. 

Sturdza Castle

Sturdza Castle is a historical monument located in the village of Miclăușeni near Roman. The complex consists of three significant monuments, namely, the Church of the Holy Princes and Annunciation, the Sturdza Palace, and the Miclăușeni Monastery Park. Built in Neo-Gothic style, the castle has an impressive collection of paintings, books, art pieces, and jewelry. However, all of the precious artifacts were lost during the communist rule. The castle is open for tourists on Saturdays and Sundays from noon to 6 PM and on a weekday by appointment. 

Râșnov Citadel

Blessed with the most dramatic location, Râșnov castle has some seriously stunning views. Initially built by the Teutonic Kings in 1211, it was restored during the communist regime between 1955 to 1966. The castle is renowned for its remarkable defensive qualities owing to the cliffs around it which are impossible to climb. The citadel has been captured once by Gabriel Báthory. Râșnov Citadel has played host to Romania’s first extreme metal festival. 

Făgăraș Citadel

The Făgăraș Citadel was built in the 14th century on the grounds of older wooden fortifications. The citadel illustrates medieval defensive architecture that features a moat with a single bridge, the only entry point to the citadel. A citadel known for its luxurious living is open for tourists and is a museum boasting of beautiful halls, inner courtyard, and restored underground passages.

Săvârșin Castle

This castle is the former Romanian Royal family’s country residence. The royal family spent the winter holidays in the castle, a tradition that is continued till date. The castle is built in Neoclassical style on a 6.5-hectare private estate in Săvârșin park. As the castle is still used by the royal family, therefore it is available to the tourists only on certain days. 

Jidvei (Bethlen-Haller) Castle

Bethlen-Haller castle which is also known as Jidvei Castle, is built in French Rennaissance style in the 16th century. It was restored during the communist regime. The castle located on the outskirts of Cetatea de Balta offers splendid views of the village. The castle has an impressive collection of 45 watches which have a beautiful story behind it. 

Alba Carolina Fortress

It is a star-shaped fortress built in the 18th century in  Alba Iulia during the Habsburg rule. Its star shape is an iconic element of Vauban architecture and features seven bastions, seven gates adorned with statues, sculptures and stone works. Wander around in the beautiful alleys and paths as well as climb up the elevated terraces for impressive views. Also, don’t miss a chance to view the change of guard ceremony. 

Cantacuzino Castle

Cantacuzino Castle is located on Zamora Street in Bușteni, Romania. Built in neo-Romanian style, it is a mountain resort. Surrounded by a park featuring waterfalls, sparkling fountains and a cave, the castle’s interior is decorated with stained glass, marble fireplaces, and mosaics. Though the castle opened for public only in 2010, it is attracting many tourists due to its entertainment avenues.