Bran

Visit the castle where Count Dracula is supposed to have lived and explore the stunning, scenic landscapes of the Carpathian Mountains, home to a large population of brown bears.

Tales of vampires, werewolves and things that go bump in the night await visitors to Bran. This Transylvanian village is where you will find the legendary Bran CastleOpens in a new window, thought to be the inspiration for the home of one of literature's greatest villains, Count Dracula. Tour the medieval castle and investigate the swaths of fields, forests and mountains that make up the surrounding countryside.

The 14th-century turreted fortress is perched on a steep cliff above the village. During its long history, it has served as a royal residence and as a hospital during World War II. Explore rooms, courtyards and passages and see collections of art, furniture and weapons that are hundreds of years old. Find more items from the castle, including furniture, at the Medieval Bran Customs Museum.

Visit other castles within a few miles of Bran. These include Rasnov FortressOpens in a new window and Peles CastleOpens in a new window, both of which are in the Carpathian Mountains.

Build time into your itinerary to discover the spectacular natural scenery around Bran. Go hiking along marked trails through forests, over mountains and past glacial lakes in the Piatra Craiului National Park. From March to November, try to spot brown bears from the enclosed observatory. Among the other activities in the park are rock climbing and guided wildlife tours. In the Bucegi Natural Park, take photographs of such intriguing rock formations as the Sphinx and the Old Women.

Wander through the subterranean world of Valea Cetatii Cave, which has a vast central hall. Another cavernous site that is interesting to explore is the Ialomicioara Monastery and Cave.

Reach Bran by flying into BucharestOpens in a new window and driving north for just under 3 hours. You can also take a train from the Romanian capital to the nearby city of Brasov, which is just 18 miles (29 kilometers) from Bran. From there, arrive by bus or taxi to explore a destination of mystery, history and scenic beauty.