Saxon Villages & Fortified Churches

Transylvania’s Saxon villages are some of the best-preserved medieval settlements in Europe, founded by German settlers in the 12th century. Many of these villages are home to UNESCO-listed fortified churches, unique structures that once served as places of worship and defensive strongholds against Ottoman invasions.

Viscri – Perhaps the most famous Saxon village, Viscri is a postcard-perfect settlement with cobbled streets, pastel-colored houses, and a 12th-century fortified church. The slow pace of life here is unmistakable—locals still travel by horse-drawn carts, and traditional crafts like blacksmithing and weaving thrive.

Biertan – This village is home to one of the largest and most impressive fortified churches in Transylvania. Enclosed by three concentric walls, it was once the seat of Transylvania’s Lutheran bishops and remains a stunning example of medieval architecture.

Prejmer & Harman – Located near Brașov, these two fortified churches are among the best-preserved in Romania, featuring defensive towers, secret passages, and ancient wooden doors reinforced with iron spikes.

These villages offer a glimpse into a forgotten world, where traditions are deeply rooted, and history is ever-present in the landscape.

Medieval Towns & Fairytale Castles

While Bran Castle (often linked to Dracula) draws the crowds, Transylvania is dotted with equally fascinating but lesser-known medieval towns and castles.

Sighișoara – This stunning UNESCO-listed town is one of the best-preserved medieval citadels in Europe. Its cobbled streets, colorful houses, and 14th-century Clock Tower make it feel like a living museum. Sighișoara is also the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the real historical figure behind the Dracula legend.

Sibiu – With its grand squares, hidden courtyards, and famous "eyes of Sibiu" (rooftop windows that resemble watchful eyes), Sibiu is a city that blends Saxon heritage with modern charm. It’s a cultural hub filled with art galleries, traditional markets, and lively festivals.

Corvin Castle – Often overshadowed by Bran Castle, Corvin Castle (Castelul Huniazilor) is one of the most impressive Gothic castles in Europe. Its towering drawbridge, medieval halls, and dramatic setting make it feel straight out of a fantasy novel.

Transylvania’s Wild Landscapes

Beyond its medieval towns and villages, Transylvania is a land of untamed beauty, with dense forests, rugged mountains, and remote valleys.

Piatra Craiului National Park – A hiker’s paradise, this park features dramatic limestone ridges, deep gorges, and untouched forests where bears, lynxes, and wolves roam. The village of Măgura, nestled within the park, offers breathtaking views and a perfect base for exploring.

Apuseni Mountains – Known for their karst formations, underground rivers, and hidden caves, the Apuseni Mountains are a paradise for nature lovers. The Scarisoara Ice Cave, one of the largest underground glaciers in Europe, is a must-visit.

Transfăgărășan Highway – Dubbed "the best road in the world" by Top Gear, this winding mountain road snakes through the Carpathians, offering jaw-dropping views and access to Bâlea Lake, a glacial lake surrounded by peaks.

For a truly immersive experience, stay in a remote guesthouse, where homemade cheese, locally sourced honey, and freshly baked bread are part of everyday life.

Slow Travel & Local Traditions

To truly experience Transylvania, slow down and embrace its rural rhythms.

Stay in a traditional Saxon guesthouse – Many historic homes have been beautifully restored into charming accommodations, offering an authentic glimpse into village life.

Learn traditional crafts – Join a workshop in Viscri or Biertan to learn blacksmithing, pottery, or weaving from local artisans.

Taste local food – Try bulz (grilled polenta stuffed with cheese), ciorbă de burtă (a rich tripe soup), and papanasi (fried doughnuts with sour cream and jam). Pair them with a glass of palincă, a traditional fruit brandy.

Join a bear-watching tour – Transylvania is home to one of the largest populations of brown bears in Europe. Ethical wildlife tours in the Zărnești Bear Sanctuary or the forests of the Harghita Mountains offer a chance to see these incredible animals in their natural habitat.