Christine
Want to take the kids on a spooky adventure for Halloween that they’ll never forget? Haunted houses, ghost tours, hay rides, meh OK. But want to give them something to tell their friends about? How about a visit to Dracula’s castle in Transylvania
That’s right, the big Impaler, himself. Bran castle, one time prison of the infamous Vlad Dracul, is only a few hours from Bucharest, Romania.
Truth be told, Bran Stoker took some liberties with the castle and the Prince of Wallachia, modeling his stories on both. But don’t let that dissuade you from a fun, spooky, educational adventure with the kids.
Vlad’s actual castle is nearby in ruins and you can hike to it and take a tour. The beautifully restored, medieval Bran Castle, was once a royal residence, and after many years under Communist rule, is open for tourists to get a taste of the rich culture and history of Romania.
The area, rich in natural beauty is a great place to take the kids any time of the year but nothing says Halloween like Autumn in the Carpathian Mountains.
Tickets to enter the castle are about the equivalent of $6, US.
You can take a one day tour to visit two famous Romanian castles.. Click here for more info on visiting spooky castles of Romania.
Prices are about $69 for adults, $35 for kids.
Prepare Your Kids for a Visit to Dracula’s Castle on Halloween
Before the visit, share some age-appropriate information about Bran Castle and its connection to the Dracula legend. You can find books, documentaries, or online resources that are suitable for kids to introduce them to the story.
Choose the Right Time
Consider visiting during daylight hours, as Bran Castle can be quite spooky in the dark. This can help avoid any potential nightmares or overly scary experiences for young children.
Plan Age-Appropriate Tours
Bran Castle often offers guided tours tailored to different age groups. Look for tours designed specifically for children, which can make the visit more engaging and informative for them.
Interactive Activities
Some tours or exhibitions at the castle may include interactive elements or hands-on activities for children. These can keep kids engaged and help them learn while having fun.
Bring Snacks and Water
Kids can get hungry and thirsty during the visit. Carry some snacks and water to keep them energized throughout the adventure.
Wearing Costumes at Bran Castle
If your kids are interested, let them dress up in fun, non-scary costumes. It can add to the sense of adventure and make the experience more enjoyable for them.
Discuss Legends and History
While exploring the castle, talk to your kids about the legends and history associated with it. Encourage questions and discussions to make it an educational experience.
Explore the Grounds
Bran Castle is surrounded by beautiful grounds. After touring the castle, take a walk in the gardens, enjoy the fresh air, and let the kids run around a bit.
Check for Family Events
Depending on when you visit, there may be special family-friendly events or activities happening at Bran Castle. Check their website or contact them in advance to see if there are any scheduled during your visit.
Souvenirs of Bran Castle
Let your kids pick out a small souvenir from the gift shop as a memento of their adventure.
Plan in Advance
Halloween is a popular time to visit Bran Castle, so make sure to plan your trip well in advance. This includes booking your accommodation, tickets to the castle, and any guided tours if you want to take one.
Costumes
Many visitors like to dress up in Halloween costumes when visiting Bran Castle. It adds to the festive atmosphere, but keep in mind that some costumes may not be allowed inside the castle, so check the rules beforehand.
Weather
Be prepared for chilly weather, as Halloween falls in late October, and the region can be quite cold. Dress warmly, especially if you plan to be outside for extended periods.
Parking
If you’re driving to the castle, be aware that parking can be limited, especially on busy holidays like Halloween. Arrive early to secure a parking spot.
Respect the Castle Rules
Remember that Bran Castle is a historical site, so be respectful of the property and the rules set by the staff. Taking photos is usually allowed, but using flash photography may not be permitted in some areas.
Enjoy Nearby Attractions
Consider extending your adventure by exploring other nearby attractions in the area, such as Rasnov Fortress or the picturesque town of Bran.
Remember that the key to a successful adventure with kids is to balance education with fun and to adapt the experience to their interests and age group. Bran Castle can provide a unique and memorable outing for the whole family.
History of Bran Castle
Construction and Origins (14th Century)
Bran Castle was built in the early 14th century, around 1377. It was constructed as a defensive fortress and customs post by the Hungarian King Louis I of Anjou to guard the strategic mountain pass against invading forces.
Strategic Role (14th-15th Centuries)
Throughout its history, the castle served various purposes, including as a military fortress and a royal residence. It played a role in defending the border of Transylvania against potential invaders from the south.
Ownership Changes (15th-19th Centuries)
The castle changed hands several times over the centuries. It was owned by various Hungarian and Transylvanian rulers, including Queen Maria of Hungary, who later became Queen Consort of Hungary and Transylvania.
Connection to Vlad the Impaler
While Vlad III, known as Vlad the Impaler, a 15th-century Wallachian ruler, is sometimes associated with Bran Castle, there is no strong historical evidence to support this claim. Vlad III’s real-life connections to various castles and fortresses in the region have led to the Dracula legend.
Royal Residents (20th Century)
In the early 20th century, Bran Castle became a royal residence when it was presented to Queen Maria of Romania as a gift. She made significant renovations to the castle during her time there.
Museum and Tourist Attraction (20th Century-Present)
After the fall of the Romanian monarchy, the castle was confiscated by the Communist government. In 2006, it was returned to the royal family, and today, it is a museum open to the public. Visitors can explore its historic rooms, collections, and exhibitions.
Dracula Connection and Tourism (20th Century-Present)
Bran Castle became widely associated with the Dracula legend after the publication of Bram Stoker’s novel “Dracula” in 1897. Although there’s no historical evidence linking Vlad the Impaler to the castle, the combination of the castle’s appearance and its location in the Carpathian Mountains has contributed to its portrayal as Count Dracula’s castle.
Restoration and Preservation
The castle has undergone significant restoration efforts to preserve its historical and architectural heritage while also embracing its Dracula-related fame. It is one of Romania’s most visited tourist attractions, drawing visitors from around the world.
Photo by Jorge Fernández Salas on Unsplash
Photo by Tobias Rademacher on Unsplash
