Known for its connections with Dracula, Transylvania is one of the most beautiful areas in Romania. Home to beautiful cities like Brasov, Sibiu and Sighisoara, Transylvania is a place filled with history, culture and natural beauty.
Among some of the most spectacular sights are the beautiful Transylvanian castles and fortresses. Located in unique places and with a fascinating architecture, these castles should be on any traveler’s itinerary.
If you’re planning to visit Romania, visit at least a few of these places. Without any further ado, these are the top fortresses and castles in Transylvania.
Map of Transylvania Castles and Fortresses
To help you plan your trip, I’ve included all the castles and fortresses in this region in the map below. Save this map with castles in Transylvania!
Click on the photo below to see the entire map.
BEST Castles and Fortresses in Transylvania
25. Rupea Fortress
While everyone travels to the most famous fortresses in Transylvania, not many visit Rupea Fortress. Conveniently located on the road between Brasov and Sighisoara, the fortress is visible from the main road, rising on a high hill above the modern settlement of Rupea.
It’s an old rural fortress developed on much older fortifications during the 14th century. Even if you can admire it from afar, I recommend driving towards it and climbing through its four courtyards to reach the top. The citadel includes perfectly restored walls, strong towers and several medieval buildings, including the Count’s Room and a chapel. It’s one of the lesser-known castles in Transylvania!
- Entrance fee – 10 RON for adults, 5 RON for children
- Opening hours – 9 am to 5 pm
24. Cantacuzino Castle
Located in Busteni, along the beautiful Prahova Valley tourist region, Cantacuzino Castle is a veritable delight. Completed back in 1911, this Neo-Romanian style castle sits on a beautiful estate, with splendid panoramas of the Carpathian Mountains and charming gardens.
The castle was built and owned by the Cantacuzino family until the arrival of the Communists, when the original furniture was removed and the walls painted over. Today it is privately-owned and I recommend visiting this site mostly for the views and photo opportunities.
- Entrance fee – 32 RON
- Opening hours – Monday to Thursday from 10 am to 6 pm, Friday to Sunday from 10 am to 7 pm
23. Rasnov Fortress
Among the unique castles of Transylvania that I visited is the picturesque fortress of Rasnov. Perched on top of a rocky hill at the foot of the Carpathians, the fortress is beautifully preserved with cobblestone streets that were once filled with life. The oldest structures date back to the 14th century.
Today, visitors can wander around the citadel and visit medieval houses transformed into souvenir shops, the medieval museum or the old chapel. The fortress can be reached from the town of Rasnov, with a short road leading to the parking lot. From there you can walk or take the funicular.
- Entrance fee – 28 RON for adults, 22 RON for children
- Opening hours – 10 am to 6 pm, Friday and Saturday 10 am to 7 pm, Sunday 10 am to 6.30 pm
22. Peles Castle
For me, the magnificent Peles is the most beautiful castle in Transylvania and the whole Romania. Surrounded by mountains and forests, Peles Castle is located in Sinaia, along the marvellous Prahova Valley that connects Transylvania and Walachia. I am always amazed by the beauty of its location and the splendor of its elegant Neo-Renaissance architecture.
It was built at the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries by the first king of Romania, Carol I. Peles Castle was a royal residence until the end of the Second World War. The lavish interior is truly amazing, with unbelievably intricate woodwork and many art masterpieces. I also recommend visiting the smaller Pelisor Castle located on the same grounds.
- Entrance fee – 30 RON for adults, 7,5 RON for students and children
- Opening hours – Monday and Tuesday closed, Wednesday 9.30 am to 4.15 pm, Thursday – Sunday from 8.30 am to 4.15 pm
21. Sukosd-Bethlen Castle, Racos
Racos is an area with three incredible natural wanders – the inactive Racos Volcano, Racos Lake and Racos basalt columns. Apart from these beautiful sights, in the village of Racos you can find the Sukosd-Bethlen Castle, one of the top castles in Transylvania.
Attested in 1636, this medieval Transylvanian castle is guarded by 4 circular towers. During the summer, the castle is open daily to visitors. However, during the winter the castle is mostly closed.
- Entrance fee – 20 RON for adults, 10 RON for children
- Opening hours – during the summer, the castle is open form 12 pm to 8 pm (Monday – Friday) and 10 am to 8 pm (Saturday-Sunday)
20. Karolyi Castle
The lovely Karolyi Castle is located in northwestern Transylvania, in Carei and close to the border with Hungary. Although little known by travelers, I had the opportunity to visit this splendid castle and there are plenty of fascinating things to discover.
It was built at the end of the 16th century from a smaller stone house, while the surrounding grounds were transformed into a charming park with a pond centuries later. This small and elegant Neo-Gothic and Neo-Baroque castle is a reconstruction of an older medieval structure. It has an inner courtyard and decorative bastions, while the interior includes an exhibition of hunting weapons and trophies. There are also many interesting works of art and authentic furniture to admire.
- Entrance fee – 10 RON for adults, 5 RON for children
- Opening hours – Monday closed, Tuesday to Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm
19. Fagaras Fortress
One of the top castles in Transylvania, the fortress of Fagaras is located in the town center. Fagaras is a small town in southern Transylvania, on the road between Brasov and Sibiu, so reaching the fortress is quite easy. Never conquered, the imposing fortress is surrounded by strong stone walls and a moat, home to beautiful swans during summer.
It was built starting with the year 1310 in the place of an older fortification, being consolidated during the 16th century. In the recent past, Fagaras Fortress was used as a prison for those who opposed the Communist regime. Today, it is almost completely renovated and houses the Land of Fagaras Museum, with interesting collections about the history and ethnography of the region.
- Entrance fee – 20 RON for adults, 10 RON for children
- Opening hours – Monday closed, Tuesday to Friday from 8 am to 6 pm, Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm
18. Targu Mures Fortress
The fortress of Targu Mures was built during the first half of the 17th century, but the fortifications on the site were at least two centuries older. The fortress is surrounded by walls and five strong towers, as well as the massive gate bastions.
While visiting this fascinating destination, I was amazed by the beautiful restoration works that gave it its former glory. Inside the walls, I visited the old Reformed Church dating from the 14th century and the History and Archaeology Museum, where I found interesting exhibits about the city’s past.
- Opening hours – Monday closed, Tuesday to Sunday from 9.30 am to 9 pm
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17. Teleki Castle
One of the hidden castles in Romania, Teleki was built during 1772 and 1803 in Baroque style. The castle is rather small and it has a u-shape with a small interior courtyard.
The castle belongs to the Teleki family and they plan to renovate it and attract more tourists to Gornesti village, where the castle is located. If you’re looking for the most interesting castle in Transylvania, make sure to add this one to your itinerary!
- Opening hours – 10 am to 6 pm
16. Harman Fortified Church
If you’re looking for castle-like structures in Transylvania, make sure to add the Harman Fortified Church to your itinerary. Built in the 13th century by saxons, the church is surrounded by strong walls interrupted by 7 imposing towers.
This church is located close to Brasov, one of the most beautiful cities in Romania.
- Entrance fee – 10 RON for adults, 5 RON for children
- Opening hours – click here
15. Deva Fortress
Located in Deva, Hunedoara County, Deva Fortress is built atop a volcanic cone, overlooking the city. The fortress was a strategic settlement used for defending Transylvania.
In 1849 the fortress was almost destroyed by an explosion. However, nowadays the fortress has been renovated and it can be visited. To get to the fortress, you’ll have to climb 113 stairs, but the view is well-worth it. As an alternative, you can take the funicular.
- Entrance fee – 10 RON for the funicular both ways, free if you walk
- Opening hours – 9 am to 8.15 pm
14. Alba Carolina Fortress
Among the unique fortresses in Transylvania, the splendid Alba Carolina Fortress should be on any traveler’s itinerary. It ranks among my favorite places in Romania and I truly love the atmosphere of this urban citadel. The largest fortress in Romania has a history of over three centuries and covers a huge area that includes many inspiring monuments.
It was built during the Habsburg rule in Vauban style to counter the Ottoman threat. Located in the city of Alba Iulia, plan at least a few hours to explore this fortress. Among the most interesting monuments, I can include the Orthodox and Roman-Catholic cathedrals, the Roman ruins, the Union Hall, the Princely Palace, the street statues and the citadel gates. Alba Carolina is surrounded by three rows of strong walls in a seven-corner star shape, creating a picturesque panorama from above.
- Entrance fee – Free, some museums inside the fortress require an entrance fee of about 10 RON
- Opening hours – 9 am to 11 pm
13. Bran Castle
Given the awesome legends surrounding it, Bran Castle is definitely one of the unique castles in Transylvania and even Europe. While I never saw Dracula while visiting this splendid Romanian castle, there are still many things to admire and discover.
Located just about 25 kilometers from Brasov, the castle actually has only a few connections to Vlad Tepes, the ruler that inspired Bram Stoker to create the fictional Dracula. I was impressed by this castle’s romantic charm. I strongly advise you to visit the castle’s interior transformed into a museum with authentic old furniture and other exhibits.
- Entrance fee – 45 RON for adults, 25 RON for students, 10 RON for children
- Opening hours – click here
12. Kalnoky Castle
Although rather small, the lovely Kalnoky Castle has some interesting features. It is located in the village of Miclosoara, in Covasna County and used to belong to a noble family in the area. The Late Renaissance structure resembles more of a manor than an actual castle as it has few defensive purposes.
Today, it houses the Museum of Transylvanian Life, with many interesting exhibits that include authentic weapons, costumes, furniture and other aspects of nobility life. The castle is surrounded by a nice garden.
- Entrance fee – 20 RON for adults, 10 RON for children
- Opening hours – Monday to Thursday closed, Friday to Sunday from 11 am to 4 pm
11. Sighisoara Fortress
Sighisoara is a unique place. It’s the last inhabited medieval fortress in Europe and a must-see while in Romania. From its beautiful towers to stunning churches and colorful houses, Sighisoara is one of the top fortresses in Transylvania.
For the best views of the fortress, I recommend climbing to the top of the Clock Tower. Also, make sure to visit the Citadel Square and climb the Scholar’s Stairway. Read more about other things to do in Sighisoara here.
10. Feldioara Fortress
Among the top castles in Transylvania, the fortress of Feldioara is often overlooked, being just about 20 kilometers north of Brasov. It is the most important fortress built by the Teutonic Knights in Transylvania and it’s also known as Marienburg, after the German name of the village.
Built during the 13th century, it was destroyed a few times and sat in ruins for many years, before finally being completely renovated a few years ago. I was completely blown away by the architectural details. If you plan to visit Brasov, make sure to add Feldioara Fortress to your itinerary.
- Entrance fee – 15 RON for adults, 10 RON for children
- Opening hours – Monday from 11 am to 5 pm, Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am to 5 pm
9. Bethlen-Haller Castle
Located in the heart of Transylvania, the beautiful Bethlen-Haller Castle is located in Cetatea de Balta village, close to the town of Medias. It was originally built during the 16th century in a Renaissance style, but it was restored a few centuries later as a Baroque structure.
Today, the Bethlen-Haller Castle is a guesthouse featuring splendid rooms. While in the area, I recommend going on a wine tasting tour at the nearby Jidvei Winery.
- Entrance fee – 25 RON for adults, children under 12 free entry
- Opening hours – Monday closed, Tuesday to Sunday at 11 am, 1 pm and 3 pm only with a guided tour
8. Banffy Castle
Known in the past as the Versailles of Transylvania and presently famous for the huge Electric Castle Music Festival that takes place on its grounds, Banffy Castle is one of the popular castles in Transylvania. It’s located in Bontida, close to Cluj Napoca and was built by the Banffy family as a Renaissance complex.
The last changes were in Baroque and other styles. Thanks to complex restoration works that are still undergoing, the castle’s incredible architecture can be admired nowadays.
- Entrance fee – 3 RON
- Opening hours – 10 am to 8 pm
7. Lazar Castle
Located in Harghita Country in Lazarea, this citadel is a beautiful example of Gothic, Romanesque and Renaissance styles. With beautiful defence walls and watching towers, this is one of the most beautiful castles in Romania.
Not many tourists get here and that’s a shame. The Lazar Castle was built starting with 1532. Later on, other buildings were added to the structure. Nowadays, the castle can only be admired from the outside since the successors of the Lazar family are battling for the property.
6. Cris Bethlen Castle
This beautiful Transylvania castle was built starting with the 14th century. It’s considered to be the most beautiful Renaissance castle in Transylvania and for a good reason. An interesting fact is that the Bethlen family still owns this castle, but they don’t live here.
If you plan to visit the incredible Sighisoara, I recommend visiting the Cris Bethlen Castle as a day trip. You can also add the beautiful Biertan Fortified Church to your itinerary.
- Entrance fee – 10 RON for adults, 5 RON for children
- Opening hours – 10 am to 5 pm
5. Calnic Fortress
The beautiful Calnic Fortress dates back to the 13th century and it was included in the UNESCO World Heritage sites. It was used for defensive purposes and inside the fortress, guarded by double walls, you can find a beautiful church and an imposing tower.
Once living quarters, the tower has been transformed into a museum. Here you can find a beautiful collection of popular and medieval art. Calnic Fortress is one of the most beautiful fortresses in Transylvania.
- Entrance fee – 5 RON
- Opening hours – 9 am to 5 pm
4. Brasov Citadel
Located strategically on top of a hill overlooking the city and Tampa Mountain, Brasov Citadel is one of the main tourist attractions in the city. Even if you can’t visit the inside of the citadel, you can still admire its walls and architecture from the outside.
Moreover, the citadel offers stunning views of Brasov. I recommend coming here at sunset, when the city lights are turned on.
3. Biertan Fortified Church
Transylvania is known for its stunning fortified churches, resembling castles. Biertan Fortified Church is, in my opinion, the most beautiful example of saxon churches in Transylvania (built between 1486 and 1524).
Located on top of a hill, Biertan Church overlooks the village. It has several beautiful towers that are now converted into a museum where you can admire glimpses of the past. If you want to admire the church, head to one of the surrounding hills and enjoy the views!
- Entrance fee – 10 RON
- Opening hours – Monday closed, Tuesday to Saturday from 11 am to 3 pm
2. Viscri Fortified Church
Viscri village is quite popular thanks to the Prince of Wales. The Prince was charmed by this village and he even bought a few properties here. He regularly visits Viscri and he definitely put this village on the map.
One of the only tourist attractions in Viscri is the beautiful fortified church, built in the 13th century. The entire village is part of UNESCO, including the church. You can visit the church and the surrounding walls as a day trip from Brasov or Sighisoara.
- Entrance fee – 10 RON
- Opening hours – 10 am 1 pm, 2 pm to 6 pm
1. Corvin Castle
One of the most beautiful castles in Transylvania and definitely one of the most impressive ones I have ever visited is the Corvin Castle in Hunedoara. Easily accessible, the castle looks like a scene from Harry Potter.
The majestic castle dates back to the 14th century. The original fortress was transformed into a castle by John Hunyadi after 1440 and continuously fortified along the centuries. I was truly impressed by its beauty as I walked on the long bridge, through the courtyard and into grand halls. It’s truly a masterpiece, one of the most beautiful castles in Europe and one of Romania’s top tourist attractions.
- Entrance fee – 35 RON for adults, 7 RON for students, 5 RON for photos, 15 RON for video
- Opening hours – Monday from 12 pm to 5 pm, Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am until 5 pm
Final thoughts
I hope that you enjoyed reading about these amazing fortresses and castles in Transylvania. While in the area, make sure to visit Sibiu, Brasov and Sighisoara, three of the most beautiful cities in Romania.
Also, Transfagarsan and Transalpina are two of the most spectacular roads in Romania. Make sure to add them to your itinerary!
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section below. May the travel bug bite you!
Aurelia Teslaru is a professional travel blogger and the writer behind Daily Travel Pill. With a 4-year experience as a travel writer and photographer, Aurelia only shares travel guides about destinations that she visited.
She has been to more than 40 countries during the past 10 years and aims to explore 50 countries before turning 30 years old. Aurelia is a digital nomad who transformed her passion for travel into a lifestyle. Read more about her here.
To follow her adventures, check out her Instagram and Facebook pages!