Thrilling Transylvania Adventure: Discover Dracula's Castles & Fortresses, Encounter Wild Brown Bears on the Top Gear Transfagarasan Road

­Our journey begins in Bucharest, and within approximately 2 hours, we will arrive in Sinaia City, where our first destination awaits: Peles Castle. Renowned for its stunning German new-renaissance architecture, Peles Castle is often hailed as one of Europe's most magnificent castles.

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Next, we will venture through the Carpathian Mountains en route to Bran Castle, surrounded by an aura of mystery and perched dramatically atop a 200-foot-high rock. This castle, famously associated with the legend of Bram Stoker's Dracula, captivates with its imposing towers and turrets.

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In Brasov, you'll discover Rope Street (Strada Sforii), one of Europe's narrowest streets. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the grandeur of the Black Church (Biserica Neagra), Romania's largest Gothic church. Despite its ominous name, the Black Church's architecture and history are nothing short of awe-inspiring.

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Your overnight stay will be in Brasov, completing a day filled with cultural exploration and historical marvels.

­ After breakfast, we will head to Sighisoara Medieval City, one of the most beautiful and best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this perfectly intact 16th-century gem boasts nine towers, cobbled streets, burgher houses, and ornate churches, rivaling the historic charm of Old Prague or Vienna.

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In Sighisoara, you'll find the impressive Clock Tower, the birthplace of Vlad Dracula (Vlad the Impaler), and the Church on the Hill with its 500-year-old frescoes. Don't miss the Church of the Dominican Monastery, known for its Transylvanian Renaissance-carved altarpiece, baroque pulpit, and Oriental carpets.

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Our final destination for the day is Sibiu, where you will stay overnight. Founded in the 12th century by Transylvanian Saxons, Sibiu was the largest and wealthiest of the seven walled citadels. The town's Old Town retains the grandeur of its past, when rich and powerful guilds dominated regional trade.

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Sibiu is divided into two easily accessible levels: the Lower Town, lined with colorful houses on cobblestone streets and surrounded by imposing city walls and defense towers, and the Upper Town, home to most of Sibiu's historic sights.

After breakfast, we will continue our journey along the Transfagarasan Road, a spectacular 90-kilometer (56-mile) route renowned for its tunnels and viaducts. In September 2009, the British television show Top Gear filmed here, with host Jeremy Clarkson proclaiming it the best road in the world. As we travel, you'll encounter stunning waterfalls and scenic vistas.Along the way, encounter wild brown bears. 

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At the highest point of the Transfagarasan, near Balea Lac (Balea Lake), you'll find Romania's longest and highest tunnel, connecting Transylvania and Wallachia. Balea Lake is a pristine glacier lake with crystal-clear, icy waters.

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If the Transfagarasan is closed, we will head to Curtea de Arges, the first capital of Wallachia and a place steeped in history and legend. Here, you will visit the renowned Curtea de Arges Monastery, the burial site of Romania's great rulers, and learn about the fascinating legend of Master Manole.

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In the evening, we will return to Bucharest, concluding our memorable journey.