Bran Castle, located in the picturesque town of Bran, Romania, is a true gem of medieval architecture that dates back to the 14th century. Built on a strategic hill, for centuries it served as a watchtower, protecting the pass between Transylvania and Wallachia. However, it is not only its military significance that attracts crowds of tourists today. The castle gained worldwide fame thanks to Bram Stoker's novel 'Dracula,' in which the author was inspired by the character of Vlad the Impaler, the 15th-century Wallachian hospodar. Although Vlad's historical ties to the castle are slight, the legend of the bloodthirsty vampire has become a permanent part of the place's identity.

Bran Castle is located at the exact address: Strada General Traian Moșoiu 24, Bran 507025, Romania. Getting here is relatively easy - the castle lies about 30 km from the city of Brasov, which is well connected to the rest of the country. You can get there from Brasov by bus (line 23) or rent a car. For those traveling from afar, the nearest airport is in Sibiu, about 150 km from Bran.

Currently, the castle is fully open to the public all year round, except for some holidays. Opening hours change seasonally, so it's worth checking them before your visit on the official website: https://castelulbran.ro/. A visit to the castle is a fascinating trip back in time, where you can admire authentic furniture and decorations from different eras, as well as displays dedicated to the legend of Dracula.

It is worth remembering that the castle is extremely popular, especially during the summer season and on weekends. To avoid long queues, it is recommended to purchase tickets online in advance. Ticket prices range from 50 to 70 lei for adults (as of August 2023), with additional fees for special exhibitions, such as the torture chamber and multimedia tunnel. Students and children can expect discounts.

There are special tours for families with children, which present the history and legends of the castle in an accessible way. The youngest can take part in interactive workshops or treasure hunts on the premises. However, it is worth remembering that some parts of the castle, especially the narrow staircases and passageways, can be difficult for young children or people with limited mobility to navigate.

Bran Castle offers many attractions that will make your visit an unforgettable experience. The tour begins by entering the courtyard, which offers an impressive view of the surrounding area. Inside the castle, a fascinating journey through centuries of history awaits you. The chambers are decorated in the style of different eras, from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century, when the castle was the residence of Queen Mary.

One of the main attractions is an exhibition dedicated to the legend of Dracula and the figure of Vlad the Impaler. Here you will find artifacts, historical documents and multimedia presentations that will bring you closer to this fascinating story. For the brave, there is an extra-fee exhibition of torture instruments, which allows you to feel the horror of the old days (note: may not be suitable for younger children).

Don't miss the secret passage that connects the first and third floors of the castle. It's a narrow corridor hidden in the wall, which is sure to spark the imagination of both children and adults. There is also a well in the castle courtyard, around which many legends have grown up.

For those seeking additional thrills, the castle offers a special multimedia tunnel that takes visitors into the world of vampires and legends of Transylvania. This attraction is an extra charge, but certainly worth the price due to its modern special effects and interactive elements.

After exploring the interior, head to the observation deck, which offers a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding mountains and valley. It's the perfect place for souvenir photos.

For families with children, there are special tours and interactive maps that present the history of the castle in a game format. There are also demonstrations of medieval battles and craft workshops on weekends and during the summer season.

Keep in mind that a tour of the entire complex can take from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the option chosen and the pace of the tour. It is worth planning enough time to quietly enjoy the atmosphere of this unique place.

After visiting the castle, be sure to visit the park at the foot of the castle. This is an ideal place to relax and have a picnic. There is also an open-air museum presenting the traditional rural architecture of Transylvania.

For those who want to extend their Dracula adventure, there are several themed restaurants and souvenir stores in the area. Here you can enjoy 'bloody' dishes inspired by the legend or purchase unique gadgets related to the vampire count.

When planning a visit to Bran Castle, there is some practical information to consider. The castle is open year-round, but opening hours vary according to the season. During the summer season (April-September) the castle is open from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., while during the winter season (October-March) it is open from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The last entrance is possible one hour before closing.

Ticket prices range from 50 to 70 lei for adults, with additional fees for special exhibitions. Children under the age of 7 are admitted free. Consider buying tickets online to avoid queues, especially during the peak tourist season.

Note that the castle has many stairs and narrow passageways, which may pose difficulties for people with limited mobility or families with small children in strollers. In such cases, it's a good idea to consult with staff before purchasing tickets.

As for clothing, remember that it can be chilly inside the castle even in summer, so it is advisable to bring an extra layer of clothing with you. Comfortable shoes are essential due to uneven surfaces and stairs.

There are many restaurants and cafes in the immediate vicinity of the castle, where you can relax and enjoy a meal after sightseeing. Local specialties of Romanian cuisine are worth trying.

If you are planning a longer stay in the area, consider staying overnight in Bran or nearby Brasov. In Branie you will find many guesthouses and agritourism farms that offer an authentic Transylvanian experience.

For those who want to discover more of the region's attractions, we recommend visiting the following places:

1. Braşov - a picturesque medieval town 30 kilometers from Bran. The Black Church and the beautiful old town are worth seeing here.

2. Rasnov - a fortress located about 15 km from Bran, offering magnificent views of the surrounding area.

3. Sinaia - a town known for its beautiful Peles Castle, a former royal summer residence, about 50 km from Bran.

4. Piatra Craiului National Park - a paradise for nature lovers and hikers, located in the immediate vicinity of Branu.

Remember that the Transylvania region is famous for its beautiful landscapes and rich culture, so you should plan a longer stay to fully appreciate its charms. Bran Castle is the perfect starting point for exploring this fascinating part of Romania, combining history, legends and a unique atmosphere. Whether you're a fan of Dracula stories, a fan of medieval architecture, or just looking for an unusual experience, Bran Castle and its surroundings are sure to meet your expectations and leave you with unforgettable memories.