If you think about Halloween travel, you’ll probably think of Salem or Halloween Horror Nights at Universal. I think ‘Halloween travel’ for most of us is really just limited to local haunted houses or nearby festivals. But there’s a different kind of October magic waiting in Romania — where misty mountains, charming villages, and centuries-old castles invite you into a fairytale landscape.
It was this landscape that surprised me with how pretty Romania is. Driving through the countryside, we passed farmers using wooden plows, roadside stalls selling handmade goods, and stork nests perched on telephone poles. The Carpathian Mountains stretch dramatically in the distance, dotted with forests and villages that feel frozen in time. It’s easy to see how legends like Dracula found their roots here — not because it’s scary, but because the scenery is so mysterious.
Bran Castle: More Than a Dracula Tale
You’ll recognize Bran Castle as “Dracula’s Castle,” but its charm lies beyond the lore. Set above a small village, the fortress looks dramatic from the outside, especially on a gray day, but step inside and you’ll find a whitewashed interior that’s much less intimidating. The twisting staircases and narrow passages give you just enough of that “secret castle” feel, while the history — from medieval stronghold to royal residence — makes it richer than its spooky reputation.
Don’t leave without grabbing a chimney cake from one of the stands at its base. This was my first experience with the treat, freshly baked over the coals, with caramelized sugar crystals that have yet to be topped anywhere else.
Beyond Bran: Romania’s Underrated Treasures
Romania isn’t just Bran Castle. Peles Castle, with its ornate woodwork and royal history, is one of Europe’s most stunning palaces. Nearby Brasov charms with cobblestone streets, lively squares, and cozy cafés perfect for sampling local dishes or people-watching. If you’re looking for natural beauty, head to Lacu Roșu (Red Lake), where pine-covered cliffs and mirror-still water make for a peaceful escape.
Everywhere you go, there’s a sense of authenticity — rustic booths selling local honey and cheeses, fortresses like Râșnov standing proudly on hilltops, and a pace of life that invites you to slow down.
Planning Your Own Carpathian Escape
A private driver or guided tour makes it easy to weave together castles, villages, and scenic hikes without the stress of navigating mountain roads. I recommend spending at least four to five days exploring Bucharest, Bran, Brasov, and the surrounding countryside. Pair castle visits with walks through the forests, hearty Romanian meals (try sarmale — stuffed cabbage rolls — or sharp local cheeses), and evenings in boutique hotels or elegant mountain lodges.
Romania is more than Dracula’s playground — it’s a destination where folklore, history, and jaw-dropping scenery collide.
If you’re looking for something unexpected this season, or to make next fall extra special, let’s design a trip that layers in just the right amount of literary intrigue. Whether you go in autumn for a moody atmosphere or in spring for blooming hillsides, Romania rewards travelers who venture beyond the usual European hot spots.
Romania awaits, let me get you out there!
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