Romania for Halloween

Bran Dracula's Castle

October 2025 gave us one of those trips that feels packed with stories from the moment you unpack your bags—and Romania absolutely delivered.

We started in Bucharest, where the crisp autumn chill made everything feel a little more cinematic. Between tasting Romanian sweet treats and wandering past centuries of history, the city surprised us at every turn. Visiting the 14th-century church where Vlad is buried felt surreal, especially with Dracula lore floating quietly in the background. The Palace of the Parliament was jaw-dropping in scale...we actually sat in the chambers, which made the history feel very real. We soaked in old-world elegance at Casa Prea Soare and the iconic Grand Hotel du Boulevard, then capped the day with a memorable visit to the salt mines, which were unlike anything else on the trip.

Heading toward Transylvania, the scenery shifted dramatically: rolling mountains, quiet villages, and that unforgettable moment when a lone tree and mountainside house demanded a photo. Sibiu stole our hearts with its charm; wandering Old Town Sibiu and Little Sibiu felt like stepping into a storybook. We explored medieval streets where Vlad “Dracula” once lived, enjoyed leisurely dinners (Di Gianfranco clearly approved), and woke up to fresh mountain air before a magical morning at Bran Castle. Staying at Mama Cozonacilor, painting gingerbread men at a cozy restaurant, and savoring the slower pace made the whole experience feel personal and warm.

From grand architecture to tiny towns, eerie legends to sweet desserts, Romania gave us history, beauty, and joy in equal measure. It was truly an unforgettable trip.