Top Gear Road and Sibiu

Poienari Castle - Situated high above the Argeș Valley, Poienari is the genuine fortress of Vlad Țepeș, the historical figure inspiring the Dracula legend. Accessible by climbing over 1,400 steps, the ruins provide expansive views and an authentic sense of medieval defense architecture. This is a genuine stronghold, shaped by history and seclusion, not a reconstructed site.

The climb is steep and not included in the program, but there will be a stop at the base of the cliff for photos and a bit of history.

Vidraru Dam - Continuing along the Transfăgărășan foothills, the route arrives at Vidraru Dam, one of Eastern Europe’s most remarkable hydro-engineering feats. The massive concrete arc rises dramatically between mountain walls, offering panoramic views over Lake Vidraru and the surrounding alpine scenery.

There will be a break, allowing you to walk the dam at your leisure, if desired.

Transfagarasan Highway - Often hailed as the “best driving road in the world” by Top Gear, the Transfăgărășan Highway is a stunning 56-mile mountain pass winding through Romania’s highest peaks. A “paved serpent” featuring dramatic hairpin turns, steep descents, and five tunnels reaching an altitude of 6,700 feet.

It is common to see wild brown bears along the roadside; tourists are strongly advised to remain in their cars and never feed them.

Due to heavy snow, the high-altitude section is typically open only from late June to October. However, there will be a glimpse of it up to the Vidraru Dam.

Sibiu - By late afternoon, arrival in Sibiu—one of Transylvania’s most sophisticated medieval cities and a former European Capital of Culture. A guided walk through the Old Town reveals pastel-colored houses, fortified walls, Gothic churches, and the iconic “eyes of Sibiu” rooftops. Highlights include the Grand Square, Small Square, and the Bridge of Lies.

Overnight in Sibiu, where the night is peaceful and the past feels near.

Bran Castle, Brasov Medieval Town and the Carpathians

Bran Castle (Dracula’s Castle) - Bran Castle is one of the most renowned landmarks in Transylvania, known as the home of Count Dracula. The 13th-century hillside castle and fortress, however, actually houses a collection of furniture and artworks that once belonged to Marie, the beloved queen of Romania. Tour the mysterious castle and decide for yourself what’s fact or fiction.

Fagaras Fortress - Often ranked among the most beautiful castles in the world, Făgăraș Fortress is an impeccably preserved medieval citadel located halfway between Brașov and Sibiu.

Originally built in 1310, it evolved from a strategic defense point to a luxurious Transylvanian princely residence. During the Communist era, it was used as a notorious prison for political dissidents, a somber history detailed in its museum.

Brasov - Brașov – Two Hours at Leisure

Brașov offers a change of pace. Set beneath forested peaks, its main square opens wide and welcoming. The Black Church anchors the city, while cafés and old merchant houses invite exploration at a personal pace. Two hours here allow the city to reveal itself without haste.

Black Church (Biserica Neagra) - The Black Church (Biserica Neagră) is the iconic gothic landmark of Brașov and the largest hall-church in Eastern Europe.
Massive and imposing, it represents over 600 years of history and remains the primary place of worship for the city’s German Lutheran community. It houses one of the world’s most impressive collections of Oriental carpets—donated by medieval merchants—and a massive 4,000-pipe Buchholz organ.

Snagov Monastery - Before returning to Bucharest, the journey concludes in quiet reflection. Snagov Monastery rests on an island, surrounded by still water and reeds. Tradition places the grave of Vlad Țepeș here, and whether fact or folklore, the setting feels fitting—serene, remote, and contemplative. It is a gentle farewell to the legends encountered along the way.

• Private transportation
• On-board WiFi
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off on both days

• Meals

Over the course of two days, the road guides travelers through mountains that have served as border sentinels for thousands of years, leading into cities molded by traders, royalty, and legends. This journey is as much about the ambiance as it is about the miles, where history is palpable beneath your feet and silence speaks as powerfully as stone.

Travelers will explore The Top Gear Road, Vidraru Dam, Poienari Fortress, Bran Castle, and the towns of Sibiu and Brasov, as well as Dracula’s grave.

The Essence of the Journey

• A genuine mountain stronghold linked to the Dracula legend’s origins
• Stunning Carpathian landscapes and feats of engineering
• A night spent in one of Transylvania’s most elegant medieval cities
• Famous castles paired with genuine towns and serene spots
• A pace that allows history to be experienced, not hurried
• Perfect for those captivated by atmosphere, history, and storytelling

This two-day Transylvania adventure is a passage—between regions, across centuries, and between the stories in books and the experiences on the road.

• Seat belt inside the coach is advised and according with the Romanian laws, mandatory
• It is higly appreciated if you are not eating in the car

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.