Ritual Killing of the Living Dead - Help a haunted spirit to gain his peace - attend the ritual of killing a vampire in this Dracula tour.
Wine Tasting in Tokaj - It was the Tokaj wine that Dracula used to serve his guests with. Also a favourite tipple of the Dumas’s musketeers.
The Magic World of Romanian Folklore - A live presentation offered by a famous Romanian ethnographer, your travel to Transylvania will enrich you’re universe with more fantastic creatures than you could ever have imagine.
Introducing Unique Characters - Meet the Vampire Wooden Stake Specialist, the famous woodcraftsman Grigore Tulean from Maramures, a VIP of your Dracula tour. Be aware that the ancient ritual of preparing the dead with a stake or needle through the heart is still practiced in some remote regions. Discover Dracula's descendents - pay a visit to Misiuga, Baron of Dracula in his windswept tower of Bistrita citadel. Vampire Treats: Enjoy Jonathan Harker’s Menu - The same meal Bram Stoker’s hero ate when in Bistrita citadel, and indulge yourself further with a Vampire menu with a dinner in Turda to find out why it’s worth killing for a meal!
Dracula’s Castle in Transylvania Halloween party - Bram Stoker’s imaginary castle where, in Borgo Pass, he placed the Bloody Count Dracula; accommodation, candle lit dinner and a camp fire with all the right stories.
Halloween Party in Sighisoara Citadel - Dracula’s birth place; lunch in the house where Vlad the Impaler was born and enjoy the best Halloween party ever.
Bran Castle Halloween party-after a night visit at the castle dreesd for Halloween be part of the biggest Halloween party in Transyvlania, Romania, Europe
Peles Castle and Corvinesti Castle - Legendary castles in Transylvania with plenty of good stories for a Halloween tour.
Day by day itinerary:
DAY 1, Budapest - Tokaj - Satu Mare
Welcome to your Dracula Tour, a Halloween in Transylvania with Vlad the Impaler! Our English speaking guide picks you up from Budapest Airport and prepares you for your travel to Transylvania.
Stop for a glass of excellent wine in Tokaj, Hungary. It was the Tokaj wine that Dracula used to serve hisguests with! For a little Dutch-courage and, for sure, with higher spirits you’ll reach Romania and stop in Satu Mare for accommodation in a 3* hotel.
Along with a welcome dinner, you’ll receive your talisman: a cross carved by a famous popular craftsman to keep your body safe and your spirit alive, as well as a survival certificate (which you’ll have stamped as you progress through the itinerary) to recognize your courage!
DAY 2, Satu Mare - Sapinta - Sighetul Marmatiei - Ieud Your first morning in Romania! Drive to Sapanta, close to the Ukrainian border, home of the merriest cemetery in the world! Unique in the world: the Merry Cemetery owes its name to the wood-carved memorial crosses, not only decorated in vivid colors depicting the deceased in a cartoon like manner, the epitaphs candidly recite biographies of the deceased using limerick-style poetry.
Next stop is Sighetul Marmatiei where Mihai Dancus, a famous ethnographer, will take you into the magical world of Romanian folklore on your visit to the Village Museum. You’ll spend the evening in a country-inn in Ieud, a welcoming ‘peasant house’ where you can enjoy a Maramuresean home cooked meal. Try on the traditional Maramuresean clothing and enjoy a carriage ride by torch light up to the village church; delight yourself with stories of the haunted houses of that area to better catch the spirit of this Halloween tour!
DAY 3, Ieud - Rozavlea - Sacel - Bistrita In Sacel you’ll make a truly necessary friend: Grigore Tulean, a famous woodcraftsman. He’ll teach us how to make the perfect wooden stake which, in Turda, will be used in order to kill a vampire! Travel to Bistrita next and step into Jonathan Harker’s shoes.
TIP: Dare to step back in time! Enjoy your lunch in the Jonathan Harker Saloon, a reference point for the Halloween tour, and feast yourself with the same menu as
he did before meeting the Bloody Count Dracula of Transylvania. Isn’t this menu great for a Halloween wedding idea? You’ll then find the answer to a question I’m sure is eating you up inside: Does Dracula have descendants?
W
e’ll head straight for the Dracula castle. It could be a perfect Halloween party idea.
We’ll stay in Dracula’s Castle, a 3* hotel which was built in accordance to Bram Stokers imagination. After visiting Dracula’s coffin we’ll run out the castle, not admitting we’re afraid and saying, “we’re going shopping for souvenirs.” A candle lit dinner at the castle is followed by a fire camp near by with all the right stories for a night to remember.
DAY 4, Bistrita - Cluj Napoca - Turda Aren’t you happy to see the light of the day again? Morning ride to Cluj, admire here the impressive Saint Michael’s Cathedral. Optional:How about a genuine Dracula tattoo? It’s hard to believe, but here in the heart of Transylvania you can find the best Turkish kebab, that we strongly recommend for your lunch, in spite of the irony – a Turkish specialty in Vlad Dracul’s country, given the fact that he was the worst enemy the Turks could have had.
From Cluj we drive to Turda, the place where you’ll put your existence to the test! Here you’ll descend into the heart of one of the biggest salt mines in the country – Turda Salt Mines. The Mine ends in a narrow tunnel at the end of which a mirror is placed. Should you see your reflection in the mirror, you will know you still have a soul to worry about!
Delight yourself with a vampire menu for dinner, a delicious reason to travel to Transylvania! Still, an evening to fear, you’ll attend the killing of a vampire; you’ll be part of the crowd seeking to take the bloody creature to a special place where the ritual can begin! Module:Enjoy a Magic Show, - performing the talented Transylvanian illusionist - Belloni, Maestro Belloni!
DAY 5, Turda - Medias - Biertan - Sighisoara The culminating point of your adventure in Transylvania! In Medias, become acquainted with a unique artist, the only one in the world who uses spider webs for his paintings. As you probably know, spiders are creatures happily tolerated by the count, so you’ll have further proof of how they are not merely reminiscent of delights' past. The next stop of your Romania travel is Biertan, visit the impressive fortified church and shop at Madam Monica Cosma’s for souvenirs which offer a superlative selection of Romanian handicrafts. Drive to Sighisoara, the best preserved and still inhabited medieval citadel in Europe and a UNESCO heritage site, but probably most important for you it is Vlad Dracula's birth place! TIP: For your lunch we recommend ‘Vlad Dracul’s House’, the very place where Dracula was born, turned today into an exquisite restaurant wherein you can find frescoes dating back to the 14th century. It’s time for your Halloween party, put on your costume and get into the mood, this is the reason for your travel to Transylvania. Plenty of opportunities for you tonight: buy After-life Insurance, attend a witch trial, the Count's Fortune-teller will be at your disposal, witness the apparition of Vlad Tepes performed by a witch and listen to your guide’s good advice, and you might just escape without being impaled! The best Halloween party idea, don’t you think? If you survive, you’ll find refuge in a 3* hotel.
DAY 6, Sighisoara - Poiana Brasov
Getting up in the morning after a party is always a hard thing to do! But the program for your travel in Romania today is worth the effort. November 1st is in fact the Romanian Halloween, so here comes round two! Drive to the medieval Saxon city of Brasov to visit the historic town centre and its famous gothic Black Church, the best-known monument in the city.The edifice holds the largest organ in Europe, which was partially destroyed during the great fire of 1689. It was here, in the city of Brasov where Vlad led raids against the Saxon merchants. In this context you can only expect a medieval dinner in the heart of the citadel.
Afterwards your Romania travel takes you in the vicinity of a cemetery to witness how some Romanians commemorate their lost ones on “Luminatie”.
DAY 7, Poiana Brasov - Sibiu You’ll travel today to Sinaia, the pearl of mountain resorts in Romania; visit Peles Castle, one of the most beautiful royal residences in Europe. The custodians report a strange smell of violets whenever the ghost of the Queen Maria (the niece of Queen Victoria of Great Britain) returns to her beloved play-ground. If you think you can’t see stranger things than what you’ve already seen, you are wrong! Today you’re introduced to the famous Bran Castle in Transylvania. The castle owes its fame to its unique charm, its history and to the myth Bram Stoker created around Dracula. Not far from here is the Horror Castle, a special treat dedicated for the strong-hearted! For a walk on the famous Bridge of Liars you’ll travel to Sibiu, a city with a wonderful medieval charm, excellent views of the surrounding landscape and great food. Accommodate in a 3* hotel. Enjoy a traditional dinner in one of the oldest restaurants in Sibiu.
DAY 8, Sibiu - Deva - Hunedoara - Arad Today you’re invited to pay a visit to another legendary castle in Transylvania, Corvinesti Castle. In the morning visit Sibiu - if you have some courage to spare you’ll cross the Bridge of liars and make a confession. Shall you utter any lie, the bridge will collapse! Drive to Hunedoara where the legendary Corvinesti Castle is waiting for your visit. The greatest Gothic style castle in Romania, Corvinesti was built in the 14th Century, and it was here that Vlad the Impaler, Dracula was brought up. TIP: For your lunch we recommend you choose Corviniana restaurant in Hunedoara, with a house specialty: absolutely delicious grilled “Corviniana schnitzel” with cheese sauce. Spend the evening in Arad, accommodation in a 4* hotel.
DAY 9, Arad - Szeged - Budapest The last day of your Halloween tour. Please allow your self an extra 5 minutes in bed to think about your adventure in Dracula’s kingdom, wasn’t it soul captivating? Travel to Budapest, Hungary’s capital. On the way stop to Szeged also called Sun City, enjoy a city tour. For lunch we recommend an excellent restaurant “Halaszcsarda” (Fisherman’s Tavern) for the fine fish specialties you can try here. Accommodate in 3* hotel in Budapest, central located. During your farewell dinner your survivors’ certificate will be handed over, as well as the certificate proving that Transylvania does exist and it’s not quite the Utopia people imagine.
DAY 10,
It’s time to take your soul back home ... hopefully.
Testimonials
"It is obvious that Transylvania Live goes to extraordinary lengths to make sure its clients are satisfied.
We are very thankful to our guide for being not only a well-informed guide but also for being courteous, dependable, friendly, and always doing his best make sure that the trip was a pleasant experience for us, which it was".
Steve and Karen from Beverly Hills (referred to us by Let’s Travel agency from Santa Monica, California, www.letstravel-sm.com)
Sorin, group leader says: It’s a great satisfaction for me to guide this tour and share all my knowledge on Transylvania’s history and legends, and also create a special fairytale, funny atmosphere.
Awarded Vampire Tour in Transylvania - Highlights:
Advice for US citizens traveling in Romania
Before you go write down contact details for the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate to carry with you in case of emergency while traveling. US Embassy in Romania
4-6, Dr. Liviu Librescu Blvd.
District 1, Bucharest
015118 Romania
Telephone: (+40) 21 200-3300 https://ro.usembassy.gov/
Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel, and check exchange rates.
Some banks are blocking your credit card payment when a transaction occur from abroad.
Safeguard Your Documents!
Make two copies of all your travel documents in case of emergency. Leave one copy with a trusted friend or relative at home and carry the other separately from your original documents. To help prevent theft, do not carry your passport in your back pocket, and keep it separate from your money.
Passport Validity
Three months beyond departure date. We recommend a minimum of six months validity after entry date
• Children’s passports: Passports issued for children under age 16 are valid for only five years, not 10 years like adult passports. Check passport expiration dates carefully and renew early.
Visas
Not required for stays under 90 days
Consent for Travel with Minors If you are traveling alone with children, foreign border officials may require custody documents or notarized written consent from the other parent.
Health Insurance: Many foreign medical facilities and providers require cash payment up front and do not accept U.S. insurance plans. Medicare does not provide coverage outside of the United States. Check your U.S. health care policy to see if it will cover you overseas. If not, consider buying supplemental insurance. Make sure the insurance you purchase covers any special medical needs or risks you anticipate on your trip.
Currency restrictions
Entry: Amounts over 10,000 Euros or equivalent must be declared
For exit: Amounts over 10,000 Euros or equivalent must be declared
Safety
There were no terrorist acts in Romania.
However credible information indicates terrorist groups continue plotting attacks in Europe. All European countries remain potentially vulnerable to attacks from transnational terrorist organizations.
The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules [with regards to best practices and safety inspections] are regularly enforced, though some tourism-related activities (such as rock climbing and extreme sports) are less regulated than in the U.S. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available in near major cities.
Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. Medical treatment in Romania is not up to western standards. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance
Crime
Reported types of crime include:
• Robbery, pick pocketing, internet scams, and credit card fraud are the most commonly reported crimes.
• Organized groups of criminals, sometimes including minors, operate in train stations, trains, subways, and busses.
• Money exchange schemes often involve individuals posing as plainclothes policemen who approach you, flash a badge, and ask for your passport and wallet. Insist on the presence of a uniformed police officer and request that any issues be resolved at the police station.
• If traveling on an overnight train, travel with a companion and in the highest class available.
• Do not leave your personal belongings unattended; stow them securely out of sight.
• Use ATMs located inside banks. You should check ATM machines for any evidence of tampering before use.
• Be extra cautious of your surroundings if using an internet café.
• Use cash wherever possible in lieu of credit cards.
Laws
Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned.
Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law.
Arrest Notification: If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately.
Special Circumstances:
• Romania is situated in a seismically active region and has a history of devastating earthquakes, with the greatest risk occurring in Bucharest.
• Mountainous areas of the country can be subject to torrential rains and flash floods, especially in the spring and summer months.
• Streets and sidewalks are often icy and hazardous during winter.
• Avoid contact with stray dogs.
• Travelers’ checks are of limited use, but ATMs (“bancomats” in Romanian) are widely available.
LGBT Travelers There are no legal restrictions on same-sex sexual relations or the organization of LGBTI events in Romania. However, the annual gay pride parades in Bucharest have been the scene of violent protests in past years.
Health
Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas.
Medical Insurance Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments.
Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription.
• Basic medical supplies are limited in Romania, especially outside of major cities.
• Hospitals often lack nursing care and assistance for the elderly.
• Most prescription drugs and over-the-counter medications are available in Romania but are often sold under different names.
• Response times for emergency services vary widely depending on the region of the country and nature of emergency.
It is strongly recommend supplemental insurance to cover medical evacuation.
Road Conditions and Safety Though Romanian traffic laws are very strict, road accidents are a real and dangerous threat for U.S. citizens visiting Romania. According to the European Union Road Federation, Romania has the highest per-vehicle rate of road fatalities of any country in the EU, a rate similar with USA.
If you chose to drive in Romania, practice defensive driving techniques.
While major streets in larger cities and major inter-city roads are generally in fair to good condition, many secondary roads are in poor repair, unpaved, poorly lit, narrow, and lacking marked lanes.
• Mountain roads are particularly dangerous when wet or covered with snow or ice. Winter snow removal is intermittent.
• It is common for pedestrians, animals, cyclists, and horse-drawn carts to share a road with motor vehicles, especially in rural areas.
• Parked vehicles often block sidewalks, forcing pedestrians to walk in the streets.
• Cross only at crosswalks and exercise vigilance as crosswalks are generally poorly marked.
• Local drivers often ignore traffic lights and crosswalk signs.
Maintain vigilance when driving to avoid hitting pedestrians in the streets.
Traffic Laws: Romanian traffic laws are very strict.
• The traffic police can confiscate any form of a driver’s license or permit for 1-3 months and request payment of fines at the time of the infraction.
• Police are required to give all drivers involved in an accident a breathalyzer test on the scene.
• Refusal to take a breathalyzer test may result in criminal penalties regardless of whether or not alcohol was involved.
• Wearing a seat belt is mandatory.
• Children under 12 years of age may not be transported in the front seat.
• Use of mobile phones while driving is banned, with exception of hands free systems.
U.S. citizens arriving in Romania for stays up to 90 days may use their U.S. state drivers’ licenses (DL) along with an International Driving Permit. The U.S. Department of State has authorized two organizations to issue international permits to those who hold valid U.S. driver’s licenses: the American Automobile Association (AAA) and the American Automobile Touring Alliance.
If entering Romania by vehicle you need to purchase a road tax badge known as “rovinieta” at the border crossing point. Proof of insurance and a car registration document are required when purchasing the “rovinieta.” Drivers of vehicles registered abroad who are not in possession of a valid international insurance document must buy short-term insurance at the border.
