Transylvania, Romania conjures imagines of bloody vampires – thanks, Bram Stoker! -, fortified churches, rolling hills, and a hearty cuisine.

It is the largest region of Romania and possibly the best well known among travelers. Rich in myths and mysteries, Transylvania is home to the country’s best preserved medieval castles, the only medieval citadel still inhabited in Europe, offers amazing hiking trails and tasty cuisine. The friendly cohabitation of Romanians, Hungarians, and Saxons has shaped the life, architecture, and cuisine of this area.

3 days in Cluj-Napoca with day trip to Turda Salt Mine

Your best point of entry into Transylvania is Cluj-Napoca. Its international airport is served by both low-cost and full service carriers. If you are already in Hungary, for example, you can take a train from Budapest to Cluj-Napoca.

You can get to know Cluj-Napoca by taking a walk in the Old Twon and soak up the atmosphere of the cobblestones and the remains of the medieval walls. In the same area, spend some time in Union Square, pass by Avram Iancu Square and then see the city from Fortress Hill (Cetatuia).

Dedicate the second day to a day trip to Turda Salt Mine. You can either take a bus to Turda or hire a car for easier access. The time spent here only depends on how much you like the mine. We absolutely loved it. If you travel with infants, be aware that they should not spend longer than 2 hours inside. If you still have time on your hands, consider visiting the Roman Ruins of Potaissa and the history museum in Turda.

On your last day in Cluj-Napoca, visit some of the museums. We loved the Transylvanian Peasants Museum , the Botanical Garden and the Pharmacy Museum.

Accommodation in Cluj-Napoca starts at 24 EUR per night (double room in a guest house) if you book 2-3 months in advance. I like many areas of the city, but you want to be either close to the city center or with quick access to the public transportation.

Cluj-Napoca to Alba Iulia by train or bus

There are four non-stop trains, operated by CFR (SNTFC) between the two cities, with travel times between 2h28 min and 4h. A single adult ticket in 2nd class costs 22 lei / 4.84 USD. There’s a bus available as well , operated by Fany. The price is not available online.

1 day in Alba Iulia

Since the train arrives in the morning, you can spend a day in Alba Iulia and then travel to your next destination. You can spend the entire day visiting Alba Carolina , the city’s citadel. It has been restored and now offers a lot of places to visit and things to do. The trail of the three fortifications is a good way to learn more about the history of Alba Iulia.

Alba Iulia to Sighisoara by train

In the evening, catch the train to Sighisoara. A single adult ticket in 2nd class costs 45.15 lei / 10 USD.

2 days in Sighisoara

Sighisoara is home to the only European medieval citadel which is still inhabited. You can easily check it out during a day but I do recommend to linger more. Walk up to the citadel and just allow yourself to get lost on its streets. Then make sure to walk all the way to the Church on the Hill for amazing views of the city. Lastly, check out the history museum located in the Clock Tower. The views from the viewing platform are also interesting.

Accommodation in Sighisoara starts at 26 EUR per night (in a one bedroom apartment) if you book 2-3 months in advance.

Sighisoara to Brasov by train

There are seven trains on the route , operated by CFR and they take between 3h and 4h. A single adult ticket in 2nd class costs 22 lei / 4.84 USD. There is also a bus operated by Fany. It takes 2 hours but prices are not available online.

1 day in Brasov

Don’t forget to visit the Old Town and check out the interesting Black Church. Head up on Tampa for the panoramic views of the city. Explore Brasov Citadel and walk on the narrowest street in Europe – Strada Sforii (Rope Street). Time permitting, you can take a short trip to Rasnov (15km from Brasov) to see the fortress.

Accommodation in Brasov starts at 17 EUR per night (in a one bedroom apartment) if you book 2-3 months in advance.

If you have more time on your hands, you can use Brasov as a starting point for a lovely road trip in Romania, focusing on Peles Castle – which is amazing! – , the famous Bran Castle and reaching the capital of Bucharest.

Important note: before planning your trip around Europe, check your visa entry requirements. Starting March 2024, Romania will be part of the Schengen Agreement for arrivals by water or air but not by land. Also European Union nationals can travel visa-free to the country.

Do you like this itinerary and want to personalize it to fit your needs? Drop me a note. I can help.

Disclaimer: The links for the accommodation point to an affiliate (if you use them to book, I may get a small commission!)

Note: the article was updated on June 2023. Accommodation prices are valid at the time of update.