2025 Sinaia Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in August)

🌲 Why Visit Peleș Castle? Tucked into the forested slopes of the Carpathian Mountains, Peleș Castle is one of Romania’s most spectacular landmarks. Located in Sinaia, just a two-hour drive from Bucharest, this Neo-Renaissance masterpiece looks like it was plucked straight from a storybook. It’s more than just beautiful — it’s a symbol of elegance, history, and royal heritage. 🏛️ A Royal Masterpiece Commissioned by King Carol I in the late 19th century, Peleș Castle was the first fully electrified castle in Europe and served as a summer residence for the Romanian royal family. The architecture blends German, Italian, and French influences, while the interiors are exquisitely decorated with: • Carved wood and stained glass • Murano chandeliers and silk tapestries • Armor collections and secret passages • Lavish halls inspired by different cultures (Florentine, Moorish, Turkish) Each room is like a museum in itself. 🎟️ What to Expect on Your Visit • Guided tours available in several languages • Option to visit just the ground floor, or include the upper floors • Don’t miss the Imperial Suite, the Music Room, and the Library with a hidden door • Photography is allowed inside only with a special permit Outside, the gardens and terraces offer breathtaking views of the mountains — perfect for a walk or a photo session. 📍 How to Get There • 🛤️ By train: From Bucharest to Sinaia (~1h45m), then a pleasant uphill walk • 🚗 By car: About 2 hours from Bucharest; parking available nearby • 🥾 You can also hike from Sinaia station through the forest (~30–40 minutes) 🍂 When to Visit Peleș is open year-round, but each season offers a different charm: • Spring: Flowering gardens and mild weather • Summer: Lush greenery and longer visiting hours • Autumn: Vibrant foliage and fewer crowds • Winter: A snowy fairytale scene (check opening hours) 💬 Final Thoughts Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or just chasing magical views, Peleș Castle is a must-see in Romania. Its blend of elegance, innovation, and mountain scenery makes it one of the most unique castles in Europe. Step inside, and you’ll feel like royalty. #adventuremoments

Romania, bordering Bulgaria, Serbia, Hungary, and other countries, officially joined the Schengen Area at the end of 2023! This means your Schengen visa now has one more destination. Come explore this charming country! 📍 Romania, known as the "homeland of vampires," is where the inspiration for the legendary vampire Count Dracula - the Wallachian prince - was born. The Danube River winds through Romania, and along with the majestic Carpathian Mountains and the beautiful Black Sea, they are known as the "three national treasures." 🍃 Day 1 🚞 Bucharest Start your journey in Bucharest, the capital of Romania. Here you'll find not only magnificent architecture reminiscent of Paris's glorious era but also the unique style from the Ceaușescu era, as if time has intertwined, allowing you to feel the weight of history. 🍃 Day 2 🚞 Bucharest ➡ Sinaia Head to Sinaia, where you must visit Peleș Castle 🏰, considered one of the most beautiful castles in the world. This castle is located in the small town of Sinaia in the Southern Carpathians and was the summer residence of King Carol I. Here, you can immerse yourself in Romania's former glory, as if you're in a fairy tale. 🍃 Day 3 🚞 Sinaia ➡ Bran Castle ➡ Turda Next, visit Bran Castle, the setting for the "Dracula" story, hence known as the "Vampire Castle." 🚕 Then, head to Turda to explore the amazing salt mine - Salina Turda Museum. The salt wells here are like the fantastic scenes from "Journey to the Center of the Earth," descending hundreds of meters underground. The mine is filled with high-tech features, and the stunning geological rock walls are a must-see! 🍃 Day 4 🚞 Turda ➡ Sibiu The last stop is Sibiu, a city once voted as one of the "Eight Most Livable Garden Cities in Europe," but it's better known as the "City with Eyes." 🌈 The houses here have skylights under the sloping roofs, which from a distance look like half-open eyes 👀, which is very interesting. Important Notes 🧚🧚🧚 If you plan to rent a car, in addition to your visa, you'll need to prepare your driver's license 🪪, International Driving Permit (IDP) or translated version, and vehicle documents to ensure a smooth journey! Come to Romania and experience this country full of history and legend! ✨

📍Sinaia Monastery, Prahova, Romania ✅Named after Mount Sinaia in the Bible, built in 1695. ✅One of the buildings representing Romanian history and culture, Designated as a national treasure of Romania. You can spend leisurely time walking along the monastery garden and nearby trails #European travel

#timetotravel Visiting Peles Castle in Romania was an enchanting journey into history and opulence. The castle's breathtaking architecture and intricate details left me in awe. The exterior's fairytale-like appearance was matched by the ornate interior, filled with lavish furnishings, stunning artwork, and intricate woodcarvings. Exploring the various rooms, each with its unique theme, was like stepping back in time. The castle's picturesque setting nestled in the Carpathian Mountains added to its charm. The informative guided tour provided fascinating insights into the castle's past and its royal occupants. Whether a history enthusiast or simply captivated by beauty, Peles Castle offers an unforgettable experience that showcases Romania's rich cultural heritage and artistic craftsmanship.

Peles Castle, in the heart of the Carpathian Mountains, is a true masterpiece of architecture and design, featuring a blend of styles that range from Gothic to Renaissance and Baroque. Built in the late 19th century as the summer residence of King Carol I, it was the first European castle to have electricity and central heating. Visitors can admire the richly decorated rooms, filled with antique furniture, paintings, sculptures, and tapestries. Don't miss the chance to stroll through the beautiful gardens and forests surrounding the castle, offering stunning views of the mountains and valleys. Peles Castle is a true gem of Romania and a testament to the country's rich history and culture. #pelescastle #romania

#bucketlistreboot Pelisor Do go outside also and take some photos on the terraces as they do offer amazing views of the gardens. Following from this head over to the other castle, Pelisor. The castle was built in 1899–1902 by order of King Carol I, as the residence for his nephew and heir, the future King Ferdinand (son of Carol’s brother Leopold von Hohenzollern) and Ferdinand’s consort Queen Marie. Economat Vila Complex Another place you can see but also take a short break and enjoy an Amandina (yes, you have to try this decadent Romanian chocolate dessert) is the Economat/”At the towers” Vila complex. Economat is the former Royal Guard Office of Peles Castle, located on the Royal Domain directly opposite the castle and just 100 metres from Pelisor Castle. #sinaia #romania

#bucketlistreboot One should be aware that there are 2 gondolas. A state run one which starts from behind the New Montana hotel and a second one which starts from “Cota 1400m”. The latter is only accessible by car. You could take a bus as well but you’ll need to consider walking as part of that. Whichever means you choose, once you are up at 2000 m, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views and amazing fresh powder snow. After all, you are in the mountains! The ski slopes are on both sides of the “Valea Dorului” valley enchanting the skier with ever so beautiful snowed peaks. One can also ski from 2000 m all the way to 1600 m however, beware not all sections are wide enough. #romania #sinaia

Beautiful Peles Castle in Sinaia, Romania 🇷🇴. Definitely worth a visit! Sinaia 🇷🇴, the famous mountainous city where the Royal (Aldovian 😃) Romanian family reside. Although, Netflix seems to have brought international fame to this mountain resort by choosing it for its famous Christmas movies, Sinaia has always enjoyed the spotlight when it comes to attention. It’s built in Neo-Renaissance and was the residence of King Charles I. It’s now a museum of national heritage artefacts. Interesting fact – Peles Castle was the first castle in Europe to be lighten up with locally produced electricity. Take that! #mountainview #pelescastle #romania #sinaia #bucketlistadventures #visitromania #beautful #interesting #checkinaway #travelwithus

Booked a tour with Trip.com to visit the Carpathian Mountains and forests. We started the tour with Bran Castle, known more famously as Dracula’s Castle because its author was inspired by the legends of Transylvania. It is now preserved as a medical fortress. After that, we stopped for lunch in the charming trade town of Brasov before heading to the first Romanian King Carol’s summer palace, Peleş Castle. It had beautiful views and distinctive architecture. The tour gives you the option to decide which of the castles you wish to go into (or both) and there are many beautiful buildings to look at even if you do not go into the castle at each stop. I would recommend Peleş castle as the interior is decorated with ornate craftwork from many European regions. A must if you are visiting Romania! #familytravel #palace #myitinerary #thingstodo

#holidayitinerary ### **Why Peleș Castle is a Must for Solo Travelers** Nestled in the **Carpathian Mountains** near Sinaia, Peleș Castle is a masterpiece of **Neo-Renaissance architecture** and **royal grandeur**. As the summer residence of Romania’s first king, Carol I, it blends fairy-tale aesthetics with groundbreaking modernity—being Europe’s **first electrified castle** (1883) . Solo travelers will adore its walkable grounds, immersive history, and cinematic allure (featured in *The Brothers Bloom* and *A Christmas Prince*) . --- ### **Top Experiences for Solo Explorers** **1. Architectural Splendor & Royal Legacy** - **160 Themed Rooms**: Wander through lavishly decorated spaces like the **Moorish Hall** (with indoor marble fountain), **Turkish Parlor** (Persian silk brocades), and **Florentine Room** (Renaissance bronzes) . - **Royal Innovations**: Marvel at the **retractable glass ceiling** in the Honor Hall, a **secret door** in the Royal Library, and the original 1883 electrical system . **2. Art & Armory Treasures** - **4,000+ Weapons Collection**: Discover Europe’s finest armory, including a 265-lb knight-and-horse armor suite . - **Ceramics & Horology Exhibits**: Admire Queen Marie’s ceramics (Japanese Satsuma pottery, Chinese vases) and King Carol’s clock collection . **3. Gardens & Grounds** - **Seven Terraced Gardens**: Stroll among Carrara marble statues, fountains, and panoramic mountain views . - **Nearby Pelisor Castle**: Visit the Art Nouveau residence of King Ferdinand and Queen Marie (2-min walk) . **4. Seasonal Magic** - **Winter**: Snow-dusted turrets and cozy fireplaces create a storybook atmosphere. - **Summer**: Lush gardens host concerts in the 60-seat **theatre hall** . --- ### **Practical Solo Traveler Guide** - **🎫 Tickets & Hours**: - **Summer** (May-Oct): Wed-Sun 9:15 AM–5:00 PM. **Winter**: Wed-Sun 11:15 AM–4:15 PM . - **Full Tour** (Ground + First Floor): 100 RON (~€20). **Camera License**: 32 RON (~€6.50) . - **Pro Tip** - **🚆 Getting There**: - **From Bucharest**: 1.5-hour train to **Sinaia Station** (€5). From there: - **Walk**: 35 mins through **Sinaia Monastery** (stop for Byzantine frescoes and the first Romanian Bible!) . - **Taxi**: 5-min ride (€2–€3; use **Taxi Thomas** or **Taxi Sinaia**) . - **From Brașov**: 1-hour train or drive via DN1 highway . - **🏨 Stay**: - **Budget**: **HI Ostello Monopoli** (dorm beds €15) or **B&B Biancofior** (€60/night) . - **Splurge**: **Hotel Bastion** (opposite the castle) or **Regal 1880 Vila Arizto** (art nouveau charm) . - **🍽️ Eat**: - **Taverna Sârbului**: Try *sarmale* (cabbage rolls) near the castle entrance (€8) . - **Café Regal**: Mocha in a Belle Époque setting .

#holidayitinerary Visiting Peleș Castle in Prahova County feels like stepping straight into a fairytale. The moment you approach, the stunning architecture catches your eye with its mix of Neo Renaissance style and intricate details. Surrounded by lush Carpathian mountain scenery, the castle looks like it belongs in a storybook. The guided tour takes you through room after room filled with rich wood carvings, crystal chandeliers, and beautiful stained glass windows. Each hall has its own theme, and the craftsmanship is incredible. The armory room is especially impressive, showcasing an impressive collection of weapons and armor from across centuries. Outside, the gardens are just as lovely, with neatly manicured lawns, fountains, and mountain views that make you want to linger. It is not just a visit to a castle but also a journey into Romania’s royal history. Whether you love architecture, history, or simply stunning scenery, Peleș Castle is one of those places you will never forget.

Brașov is a beautiful old city full of colorful buildings ... Beautiful views ... A bit cold weather but absolutely deserve to be visited it has one of the most old schools in the world and a Protestant church too Close to this city in a smaller city called Bran there's Dracula's castle called '' Castelul Bran " the entry ticket cost 90 lei it's kinda 20 euros for adults and 7 euros for kids . In another smaller city Sinaia another castle called "castelul Peleș" surrounded with a forest in a very beautiful ... Relaxing place #trip #romania #deliciousfood #historicallandmarks #localguides #familytrip #deliciousfood #castle #brancastle #brasov #pelescastle #church #schoolholidays #love #romanticrestaurant

👑 What Is Pelișor Castle? Just a short stroll from the grand Peleș Castle, you’ll find Pelișor Castle — a more intimate but equally charming royal residence. Built at the turn of the 20th century, it served as the home of King Ferdinand and Queen Marie, and holds a special place in Romanian history. More than just a "little castle," Pelișor reflects the personal taste and soul of a queen. 🪞 Inside the Royal Home Unlike the richly ornamented halls of Peleș, Pelișor is all about elegance, warmth, and personality. Its 99 rooms are beautifully decorated in the Art Nouveau style, many of them designed under the guidance of Queen Marie herself. Highlights include: • 💛 The Golden Room, with gilded thistle motifs and symbolism linked to Queen Marie • 📚 The private library and working spaces of the royal couple • 🎨 Original furniture, stained glass, and personal objects that offer a glimpse into daily royal life • 🖼️ Portraits and decorations that tell the story of a powerful and independent queen It feels less like a museum and more like a lived-in home — quiet, graceful, and deeply personal. 🌿 Surroundings and Atmosphere Pelișor is located in the same beautiful royal domain in Sinaia, surrounded by pine forests and mountain air. While smaller than Peleș, it offers: • A more relaxed, cozy visit • Quieter surroundings and fewer tourists • A romantic vibe, ideal for couples or history lovers • Plenty of places to take peaceful photos or enjoy a bench in the shade 📍 Visiting Details • 🕒 Opening hours: Usually Tuesday–Sunday, 9:15–17:00 (check seasonal variations) • 🎟️ Ticket price: Cheaper than Peleș, with combo options for both castles • 🧭 Located in the same park as Peleș – easily walkable • 👜 Small bags allowed, and photography inside is permitted with a fee 💬 Final Thoughts Pelișor Castle may be smaller than its famous neighbor, but it holds just as much magic. With its golden details, cozy rooms, and personal touches from Queen Marie, it offers a uniquely touching and human side of Romania’s royal story. If Peleș is the crown, Pelișor is the heart. #postandearn

I still can’t believe this place is real. Nestled in the Carpathian Mountains, surrounded by forest and mountain air, this castle is like something out of a movie — part Bavarian fantasy, part royal Romanian history. If you’re in Bucharest, trust me: this is a must-see. Here’s how it went — and what you should know before you go. 🚌 Getting There from Bucharest: I joined a tourist bus trip, which was super convenient but came with a few surprises: The ride is about 2.5–3 hours, depending on traffic. We had a quick stop in Sinaia town before walking up to the castle — it’s a 15–20 minute uphill walk through the woods. Comfortable shoes are a must! Our guide was great, but the tour inside the castle is led by official staff, so expect a bit of waiting. 📅 When to Go: Late spring (May–June) or early autumn (September–October) is perfect — green forests, cooler temps, and fewer tourists. In winter, the area turns into a snowy fairytale, but check accessibility in bad weather. Try to arrive before 11 AM — it gets very crowded later, especially on weekends. 🏰 Why It’s Worth the Trip: Stunning Neo-Renaissance architecture — outside AND inside. The interior is jaw-dropping: carved wood, stained glass, secret doors, even a weapon hall. You’ll feel like royalty walking through the music room, library, and grand staircase. It’s also one of the first castles in Europe with electricity and central heating — how cool is that? ⚠️ Things I Wish I Knew: The photo fee inside the castle is separate and a bit pricey — if you want pics, make sure to buy it when you enter. Only guided tours are allowed inside, and they’re quite fast-paced. You won’t have time to linger. No big bags allowed — bring a small backpack or leave extras in the bus. Public toilets near the castle are limited — go in town if you can! ❤️ Most Memorable Moment: Stepping onto the castle terrace, seeing the sun hit the snow-capped peaks in the distance, while listening to the wind rustling through the pines. Pure magic. For a second, I forgot what century I was in. #PelesCastle #RomaniaTravel #FairytaleCastles #SinaiaVibes #BucharestToPeles #HiddenGemsEurope #TransylvanianDream #CastlesOfEurope #RoyalEscape #EasternEuropeTravel #BucketListTrip #TravelTips #postandearn

#postandearn Tucked away in the forested Carpathian Mountains, Peles Castle is a masterpiece of Neo-Renaissance architecture and one of the most stunning royal residences in Europe. Built for King Carol I in the late 19th century, it blends German elegance with Romanian grandeur — every room is a work of art. ⸻ 📍 Address: Aleea Peleșului 2, Sinaia 106100, Romania 🕰️ Opening Hours: • Wednesday to Sunday: 9:15 AM – 5:00 PM • Closed Mondays & Tuesdays • Last entry: 4:15 PM (Check for seasonal variations before visiting) 🚗 How to Get There: • 2-hour train ride from Bucharest to Sinaia, then a 20-minute uphill walk through the forest • Or drive directly (about 2 hours) — parking available nearby ⸻ 💡 Travel Tips • Buy tickets early — inside visits are by guided tour only and can sell out • Interior photography requires a permit (extra fee) • Don’t miss the arms room and stained-glass ceiling in the grand hall • Combine your visit with Pelisor Castle next door • Wear comfortable shoes — cobblestone paths and stairs • Best season: autumn for golden foliage or winter for snow-draped fairy tale views • Great day trip from Bucharest or Brașov ⸻ #PelesCastle #RomanianRoyalty #CastlesOfEurope #HiddenGemsRomania #NeoRenaissance #SinaiaRomania #TravelEasternEurope #CarpathianBeauty #RoyalCastles #EuropeanArchitecture #HistoricLuxury #BucketListRomania #PelesInTheMountains #TravelMagic #PalaceEscape

The location is very good 5 mins to the train station and downstairs there are many restaurants and supermarket also in 5 mins walking distance. There is also a park just crossing the street. #sinaia

It is very pleasant to talk around the Peles castle and sinaia mountains. Very quiet in late June and probably be crowded in winter for sky. It is a nice place for summer to chill and avoid the heat in the city. #travel #naturalwonders #pelescastle

We visited 2 castles within a day when in Romania. Both were iconic and outstanding attractions to visit in vastly differently ways - Peles Castle (inaugurated in 1883) served mainly as a luxurious royal residence and its interior is awash with opulence, consisting of 160 rooms embellished with the finest examples of European art. Bran Castle (built in 1377), on the other hand, took on a variety of roles throughout its older history including a medieval fortress. Consisting of 57 rooms connected by winding stairways and underground passages, there was unmistakably gloomy atmosphere within this castle, probably due to its wide association with the Dracula myth 🧛♂️

#summerbudgettrip Looking for a refreshing mountain escape with fairytale castles and stunning nature — without spending a fortune? Sinaia and the iconic Peleș Castle are perfect summer spots that blend history, beauty, and budget-friendly fun! 🏞️ Why Visit Sinaia? 🌲 Nestled in the stunning Bucegi Mountains — perfect for hiking and fresh mountain air 🚶♀️ Charming town with quaint streets, lively cafes, and local markets 🏰 Gateway to Peleș Castle, one of Europe’s most beautiful castles 🚞 Easy access by train or bus from Bucharest (budget-friendly and scenic!) 🏰 What’s Up with Peleș Castle? Built in the late 1800s, it’s a masterpiece of Neo-Renaissance architecture Explore lavish interiors, art collections, and royal history without the crowds of bigger castles Entry ticket prices are affordable (especially for students and seniors) — and you can save by booking online! Don’t miss the nearby Pelișor Castle and Sinaia Monastery for more low-cost cultural stops 💡 Budget Travel Tips 🚆 Take the train from Bucharest to Sinaia — cheap, comfortable, and picturesque (€5–€7 round trip) 🥾 Explore free hiking trails around Sinaia like the Bucegi Plateau or Cota 1400 🍽️ Eat at local bakeries and cafés — try cozonac (sweet bread) and hearty Romanian soups 🎟️ Book Peleș Castle tickets online in advance to skip lines and sometimes snag discounts 🏨 Stay in budget guesthouses or hostels in Sinaia town center — many have mountain views!

A good chunk of any Romanian itinerary will include quite a bit of time in Transylvania. What I’ve realised is with a little bit of intelligent planning and by picking a good time of the year you can largely be done with Braşov in 24 hours. The key attractions in Braşov’e periphery will naturally be the castles of Peles and Bran - the later of which is the base of Vlad the Impaler- the inspiration behind the Dracula fictions. Both castles can be efficiently covered with a Viator/getyourguide tour. If you are driving all the better head out early and you will wisely evade the traffic later in the day. Bran castle in particular is actually rather compact and can be dealt with in 90minutes or less. Peles is more of a modern residence of the Romanian monarchy and deserves a little more time as an impressive of architecture. I will be all honest Bran Castle is rather touristy and underwhelming size wise, it’s just one of those places you have to have been in Romania to check off a box but if you’ve had your share of Balkan castles it’s rather a disappointment. I am in Braşov in May the sun rises at shortly before 5 and sets at 20:30. What this means is you could easily walk around old Braşov town once you return from the castles at 4 or 5pm with plenty of time to spare. You can easily walk from one end of the old town to the other in 15 minutes, meaning you can cover the Black Cathedral, the twin Black/White Towers, Strada Sforii (the Grafiti alley) and Catherine Gate efficiently. If you do decide to stay on in Transylvania then you can easily move on by the days end towards sighisoara, or back to Bucharest.

📅 Itinerary Day1：city tour Day2: Bran and Peleschu castle Day3: Obor market 🏨 Accommodation: My continental Bucharest 🍴 Food Recommendations: brunch places are all good in Bucharest 📌 Tips Bucharest is full of green parks! Must visit one of them

#Romania #Peles Castle #sinaia Peleș Castle 🕰️Business hours: Monday and Tuesday closed Wednesday 10AM-4:15PM Thursday to Sunday 9:15AM-4:15PM 📍Address: Aleea Peleșului 2, Sinaia 106100, Romania 💰Average consumption: Ticket price: RON 100 💞Recommended reasons: When you come to Sinaia, Romania, Peres Castle is a must-see attraction. There are also many tourist itineraries from the capital Bucharest to this castle. The castle covers a large area and has many rooms inside. The overall decoration design is very luxurious. Peres Castle is the former summer palace of King Carol I of Romania and Queen Elizabeth. It is also the origin of the national dynasty and the place where political decisions were made. It was also an important cultural center in Europe at that time. 🗓️Itinerary: Usually Peres Castle is combined with Bran Castle and Brasov city tour to form a one-city-two-castle itinerary. There will be buses to take tourists to the castle and guides to visit inside. The itinerary is very good and the time is well managed. It is recommended to sign up for this itinerary👍

In Sinaia, a small mountain town near Bucharest, Romania's capital, sits the 19th-century Peles Castle. Romanians consider it "the most beautiful place in the motherland," and world travelers hail it as "one of the most beautiful castles in the world." Peles Castle is a Gothic structure, tall and slender yet warmed by wooden materials. Surrounded by colorful forests and mountain mist, it's comparable to Neuschwanstein Castle at the beginning of a Disney animation.

Hey everyone 👋, today I'm sharing a fantastic day trip to "Two Castles and One City," starting and ending in Bucharest on the same day! 📍 Peles Castle This is King Carol I's summer residence, and its luxury is beyond imagination 🤩! Built in the German-Renaissance style, its exterior is currently under renovation, but the interior remains stunning. It's located in the small town of Sinaia, a skiing hotspot ⛷️, so visiting in winter offers both the beauty of the castle and the joy of skiing~ 📍 Bran Castle This is the famous Dracula's Castle 🧛‍♂️! The staircases inside are quite narrow, so please be careful when visiting. The interior decoration is relatively simple, but the surrounding area is bustling with commercial activity and a lively atmosphere 🔥. 📍 Brasov I was lucky enough to catch the Brasov Christmas Market 🎄, and the festive and joyful atmosphere was simply amazing! I also checked out two great places here: • 5 to go: I had Romanian hot chocolate, which has a unique chocolate flavor 🥤 • Cupt'or: I tried a local specialty that resembles small, shell-shaped pasta. It has a unique texture and I highly recommend it 🍲

A seven-day in-depth tour of Europe will take you to explore the hidden secrets of the Eastern Balkans! The solemnity of the Orthodox Cathedral, the ancient legend of the Sibiu Tower, and the mysterious charm of the Black Church are waiting for you to explore one by one and feel the rich history and unique charm of culture. -- 🗺️Route suggestion: Travel in depth in Eastern Europe and explore historical sites DAY1️⃣: Arrive in Timisoara and visit Victory Square as the first stop. Feel the historical heritage of this city and make a good start for the next journey! DAY2️⃣: Stroll through the Grand Square and feel the exotic atmosphere -> visit the Orthodox Cathedral and appreciate the charm of Orthodox architecture -> walk across the Bridge of Lies and listen to the legends and stories on the bridge. DAY3️⃣: Visit the mysterious Black Church and feel its unique atmosphere -> Go to the Brasov Council Square to experience the local political culture -> Visit the Bran Castle and Peles Castle to explore the legends of the ancient castles. DAY4️⃣: Visit the Romanian People’s Palace to learn about the country’s history -> Visit the Tsar’s Castle to feel the ancient royal atmosphere. DAY5️⃣: Go to Plovdiv, visit the historic Roman theater, and experience the charm of ancient Roman culture. DAY6️⃣: Arrive in Sofia, visit Alexander Nevsky Cathedral and St. Sophia Cathedral, and feel the fusion of religious culture -> Visit the ancient Niš Castle, and appreciate the castle’s majesty and heavy history. DAY7️⃣: Visit Tito’s Mausoleum to learn about the legendary life of this historical figure -> Visit the Church of St. Sava and the Belgrade Fortress to end this historical trip to Eastern Europe. 🔚 -- Attractions to visit: 1. 🏰Belgrade Fortress: This medieval fortress is a great place to watch the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, and the beauty at sunset is even more intoxicating. 2. 💒Church of Saint Sava: There is endless charm hidden under the magnificent dome. When you step into it, you will experience the unique scenery and sacred atmosphere. 3. Tito's Mausoleum: A great man rests here. His story is intertwined with the vicissitudes of history, which is worth your remembrance and exploration. 4. 🕍Hagia Sophia: This ancient Byzantine-style church carries the profound history and culture of Sofia, and every detail reveals the traces of time. 5. 🌆Niš Castle: Climb up the city wall and the beautiful scenery of the center of Niš will be presented to you at a glance, as if traveling through time and space and returning to that ancient era. -- Essentials before the trip: 🧳 📞 European phone cards or international roaming packages allow you to stay connected at any time without worrying about losing connection. 🔌 European standard conversion plug, worry-free charging, the device is always ready. 👔 A light jacket + a thick jacket to cope with the temperature difference between morning and evening in March, fashionable and warm. 💳 Credit card + a small amount of cash, easy payment for shopping and dining. 💊 Cold medicine + allergy medicine, emergency treatment of minor illnesses, more peace of mind during travel. 👟 Comfortable sneakers for traveling around Europe without stopping. 🎒 A small carry-on bag to hold your ID and snacks, convenient and safe. 📷 Camera or mobile phone, record beautiful moments and leave unforgettable memories. 💄 Small samples of toiletries, travel light and stay fresh. -- Travel to Europe and enjoy the romance and style! Don’t forget to follow me, there are more exciting strategies waiting for you to unlock, let’s explore every corner of the world together! 🌍✨

Hey everyone 👋! My procrastination finally got the better of me, and I'm only just now summarizing my June trip to Romania in November 🎉! Initially, I planned to travel to Romania by train, but when I arrived at the bus station in Ruse, I discovered a minibus that went directly to Bucharest. The ticket lady was incredibly helpful and managed to find two seats for us, so we switched to the minibus. Our planned route was a triangle: first to Sibiu, then to Brasov, and finally back to Bucharest via Sinaia (a day trip). 💖 Sightseeing Experiences Sinaia was the highlight, especially Peleș Castle. It was absolutely amazing! I kind of regret only doing a day trip; it felt too rushed. I wish we could have stayed overnight. Sibiu was also quite nice. Brasov, on the other hand, was relatively underwhelming. And Bran Castle (the so-called "Dracula's Castle") was a complete waste of time; I wouldn't recommend it. Bucharest actually has quite a few worthwhile attractions, so don't miss out on those. 🍜 Food Overall, Romanian cuisine is a bit more refined than Bulgarian, and naturally, the prices are a bit higher. Be sure to check the portion sizes when ordering, or you might end up wasting food. For example, in the last photo, I had lunch at a popular local restaurant, but we ordered too much. We packed up half of it, but we still ended up throwing it away, which was a shame 😭. 🚂 Transportation The trains are incredibly slow! The first day, going from Bucharest to Sibiu, took almost 6 hours! I considered taking the bus, but it wouldn't have saved much time and was more expensive. So, if you're short on time, you might consider skipping Sibiu. Also, a reminder that train tickets can be booked online up to a month in advance. The conductor will scan the QR code on your ticket. 🏨 Accommodation Apart from Bucharest, there aren't many international hotel chains in Romania. I encourage you to explore the local hotels; they have a unique charm. However, be aware that the breakfast quality can vary, but it's usually enough to fill you up. So there you have it, my independent travel experience in Romania. I hope this helps 💖. Have any of you been to Romania 🧐? Share your experiences in the comments below!

Peleș Castle is something you've never seen before. Not even in a film. Peleș has been in the same family from the day they started building it and... it's just a summer home! The last royal to live here was the King of Romania, who passed away in 2019. The castle is owned by the late kings nephews who have kept it open to the public. The castle is over 600 years old and has its own heating and air conditioning system but not as we know it today. The very clever people who designed and built Peles were geniuses! I only visited 1 floor. You can gain access to the Royal apartments and more depending on what ticket you buy, and I would strongly recommend you buy your tickets in advance online as the queues are long! I was absolutely in awe of this phenomenal castle, and it even snowed heavily on the day. It was so picturesque

Travel enthusiasts, join us for a 22-day tour of Austria and multiple other countries, immersing yourselves in European charm! This super practical guide will help you navigate multiple countries with ease. Save it now! -------- 🗺️Suggested Itinerary: Days 1-2: Fly from Shanghai to Beijing, then transfer to Vienna. Afterwards, head to Tihany and a small Hungarian town to experience the charm of Lake Balaton. Days 3-4: Visit Lake Bled, enjoy a boat trip on the lake, and then travel to Ljubljana and explore the Postojna Cave. Days 5-6: Visit Plitvice Lakes National Park, explore the "Jiuzhaigou of Europe," and then head to Zagreb, the capital of Croatia, before continuing to Belgrade. Days 7-10: Visit Sarajevo, the "Jerusalem of Europe," admire the "Garden of Paradise" in Mostar, and explore the ancient city walls of Dubrovnik. Days 11-14: Visit Kotor and Budva, both UNESCO World Heritage sites, explore Durmitor National Park, visit Tirana, the capital of Albania, and travel to Ohrid, the "Jerusalem of the Balkans." Days 15-20: Visit Sofia, the "City of Gardens," explore Kazanlak, the "City of Roses," visit the palace of the second Bulgarian king, explore Peles Castle, one of the most beautiful castles in the world, and finally arrive in Budapest, the "Pearl of the Danube." Days 21-22: Fly from Budapest back to Beijing, then transfer back to Shanghai, marking the end of the journey. -------- Must-See Attractions: 🏰Fisherman's Bastion: This is an excellent viewing platform overlooking the Danube River and Pest! 🏛️Hungarian Parliament Building: Want to learn about Hungarian history and culture? This is definitely an important stop you can't miss. 💒St. Stephen's Basilica: After reaching the top, you can overlook the entire panorama of Buda, a truly breathtaking view! 🌆Dubrovnik Old Town: Known as the "Pearl of the Adriatic," the ancient charm and atmosphere here are definitely worth a visit. 🏞️Dubrovnik City Walls: Imagine strolling along the ancient city walls, feeling the blend of history and the magnificence of nature. -------- Pre-Trip Essentials:🧳 📞 SIM Card: A must-have for easy communication and avoiding roaming charges. 🔌 Adapter: Traveling to multiple countries requires various adapters, so be prepared. 🆔 Documents: Passport and visa are essential; don't forget them, or you won't be going anywhere. 👚 Clothing: February is still cold, so pack warm coats, scarves, and gloves to stay warm. 🔋 Charger: Bring chargers for your phone and camera, and pack a few power banks for a worry-free trip. -------- Explore Austria and experience the diverse charm of multiple countries! Don't forget to share your travel stories! 🌍✨