Peles Castle

Peles Castle is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Romania as it is one of the most beautiful castles in the country. It’s located in the town of Sinaia, Romania and was built in the late 19th century to be the summer residence of Romania’s royal family. Today, visitors can tour the castle’s many rooms and see its beautiful gardens. There is also a museum on the premises, which houses a collection of art and artifacts from the castle’s history.

History

Located in the Carpathian Mountains near Sinaia, Romania, Peles Castle is a masterpiece of German new-Renaissance architecture. Built between 1873 and 1914, it served as the summer residence of the royal family until 1947. It was the first European castle entirely lit by electrical current, sourced from the castle’s own plant.

How to Get There

Sinaia is conveniently accessible from Bucharest, the capital of Romania, with a journey duration of roughly 2 hours by car via the A3 highway and DN1 road. Regular trains are also available from Bucharest to Sinaia. From Sinaia’s train station, it’s a short taxi ride or a 20-minute uphill walk to reach the castle.

List of Attractions

• Peles Castle – A stunning architectural gem set aside from the main town
• Gardens and Grounds – Beautifully landscaped, offering splendid views of the mountains
• The Museum – Displays an extensive collection of arms and armor
• Stirbey Castle – A smaller, charming building in the Peles complex

Ticket Information

Tickets can be purchased directly at the castle. Admission for the ground floor is 30 Lei (about $7), and a combined ticket for both floors is 60 Lei. There’s no charge for the gardens. Photography and filming fees are extra. The castle is open from Wednesday to Sunday, but check the official website for the latest information, as there may be early closing times or unexpected closures.

Tips for Visiting

• During the summer season, the castle can get crowded. Early morning visits are suggested.
• Remember to wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking on cobbled paths.
• You may need to queue up for buying tickets, so factor that into your schedule.
• Allow plenty of time for your visit as there’s a lot to see.
• Don’t forget to visit the souvenir shop for some unique items.