Peles Castle is a popular day trip from Brasov, Romania. The famous castle is famous for its stunning architecture and rich history. Built in the 19th century, it was commissioned by King Carol I and served as the home for Romania’s Royal Family. Today, the castle is declared a museum and houses an impressive collection of artwork.

In this blog, we’ll take you through the history and architecture of Peles Castle before diving into the different transport options available to get there. We’ll guide you on how to reach Peles Castle by bus, train, taxi, or even driving yourself. We’ll also provide a few tips on what to expect and how to make the most of your trip.

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Located in the Carpathian Mountains, Peles Castle has an extensive royal history and holds remarkable cultural significance.

Peles Castle was commissioned by Carol I of Hohenzollern-Sigmaringen, the first King of Romania. King Carol I’s visionary leadership and royal patronage were instrumental in the development of the splendid Peles Castle. The regal influences and royal aspirations behind its creation reflect the king’s profound cultural impact and personal involvement.

Peles Castle was used as a summer residence for the royal family. Its majestic interiors, royal chambers, and historical relics immerse visitors in captivating tales and royal traditions. The regal ambiance, lavish decor, and timeless elegance offer a glimpse of royalty and historical grandeur. Peles Castle is truly a cherished home of Romania’s royal family, preserving cultural heritage and captivating visitors with its royal legacy.

Peles Castle houses a vast collection of artistic treasures, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts that date back to medieval times and showcase modern artistic expressions. The collection reflects the refined taste of the castle’s royal residents, providing a fascinating glimpse into their cultural inclinations. Visitors can embark on a captivating journey through centuries of art and cultural heritage, harmonizing with the region’s rich history and presenting an enriching experience for enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

In 1953, Peles Castle underwent a remarkable transformation into a revered museum, safeguarding its historical, cultural, and artistic treasures. Following its declaration as a museum, significant milestones were achieved, including extensive conservation efforts and increased public access.

The establishment of Peles Castle as a museum beautifully showcases its historical legacy. Visitors can experience immersive exhibits, guided tours, and cultural preservation efforts, making the castle a renowned museum.

Peleș Castle, built in two phases between 1873 and 1914, is more palace than castle in terms of its form and function. The castle showcases a stunning architectural style, fusing Neo-Renaissance, Gothic, and Baroque elements.

The facades of the interior courtyard depict an influence of Saxon architecture, with ornate framework and hand-painted murals. The interior decoration is primarily influenced by the Baroque style, with intricately carved woodwork and luxurious fabrics. This grandeur exemplifies 19th-century European design and engineering, integrating diverse influences into a visually striking and historically significant structure.

Interestingly, the initial three design plans submitted for Peleș Castle were copies of other palaces in Western Europe. King Carol I rejected all of them for being too costly and lacking originality.

Eventually, the project was given to German architect Johannes Schultz who presented a more unique and original plan that appealed to the King’s taste. Schultz proposed a grand palatial alpine castle, which combined different aspects of classic European styles, mostly following Italian elegance and German aesthetics along Renaissance lines.

Construction of Peles Castle started in 1873 and was completed in 1883. During the first stage of construction, the German Neo-Renaissance style dominated both the exterior and interior of the castle. However, there were two exceptions where the neo-Ottoman and neo-Rococo styles were used instead.

Between 1890 and 1914, Peles Castle was transformed and expanded under the supervision of Czech architect Karel Liman.

In the second stage of construction, significant changes were made to the castle’s volumes, facades, and interiors. Additionally, Liman designed the towers, including the main central tower, which is 66 meters (217 ft) in height.

Peles Castle underwent extensive restoration in the 1990s to preserve its architectural grandeur. The project aimed to revive the castle’s original charm while incorporating modern techniques, reinstating its structural integrity, and showcasing a commitment to safeguarding Romania’s cultural heritage.

This comprehensive endeavor revitalized the castle’s interiors, exteriors, and surrounding landscape, ensuring its enduring legacy for future generations.

The Peleș Castle is a grand palace with a floor plan that covers 3,200 square meters (34,000 square feet) with more than 170 rooms. Inspired by world cultures, each room has its own unique theme, similar to other Romanian palaces like the Cotroceni Palace. The palace’s most notable grand rooms include:

The Hall of Honor (Holul de Onoare) was finally completed in 1911, under the guidance of Karel Liman. The hall is spread across three floors and adorned with exquisitely carved woodwork, primarily made of European walnut and other exotic timbers. The walls are decorated with bas-reliefs, alabaster sculptures, and retractable stained glass panels, which add to the overall grandeur of the hall.

The Imperial Suite (Apartamentul Imperial) is believed to have been designed as a tribute to the Austrian Emperor Franz Joseph I. The emperor was a close friend of the Romanian Royal Family and had visited the palace on multiple occasions. The decorator, Auguste Bembe, chose the sumptuous Austrian Baroque style, which was favored by Empress Maria Theresa. One of the rarest and most precious features of the suite is the five-hundred-year-old Cordoban tooled leather wall cover, which has been perfectly preserved over time.

The Grand Armory, also known as The Arsenal (Sala Mare de Arme), is home to 1,600 out of 4,000 pieces of weaponry and armor. The collection on display is one of the finest in Europe, containing hunting and war implements dating from the 14th to the 19th century. The king even added pieces that were used in his victory against the Ottoman Turks during the War of Independence. Among the collection is a complete Maximilian armor for horse and rider, and a 15th-century German “nobles only” decapitation broadsword. Visitors can also see a wide array of polearms such as glaives, halberds, lances, hunting spears, firearms including muskets, blunderbusses, snaphaunces, flintlocks, pistols, as well as axes, crossbows, and swords such as rapiers, sabers, broadswords, and many others.

The Small Armory (Sala Mică de Arme) showcases a collection of predominantly Oriental weapons and armor pieces, with a focus on Indo-Persian, Ottoman, and Arab pieces. Many of these items are made of precious metals such as gold and silver, and are inlaid with precious stones. The collection includes a variety of items such as chainmail armor, helmets, scimitars, yataghans, daggers, matchlocks, lances, pistols, shields, axes, and spears.

The Playhouse (Sala de Teatru) features a Louis XIV style decor with 60 seats and a Royal Box. The architectural decoration and mural paintings were created by Gustav Klimt and Frantz Matsch.

The Florentine Room (Sala Florentină) is a beautiful example of Italian Renaissance architecture, with many of its elements being taken from Florence. The room boasts some impressive features, including the solid bronze doors which were made in Rome by the Luigi Magni ateliers. The grand marble fireplace was executed by Paunazio and features motifs inspired by Michelangelo.

The Moorish Salon (Salonul Maur) was designed by Charles Lecompte de Nouy. It aims to showcase elements of North African and Hispanic Moorish style. The salon features exquisite mother-of-pearl inlaid furniture, fine Persian Sarouk and Ottoman Isparta rugs, as well as Oriental weapons and armor. One of the most striking features of the salon is the indoor marble fountain.

The Turkish Parlor (Salonul Turcesc) recreates the ambiance of the Ottoman era. It features Turkish Izmir rugs and copperware from Anatolia and Persia and was originally designed as a smoking room for gentlemen. The walls are adorned with hand-crafted textiles such as silk brocades from the Siegert shops of Vienna.

The Romanian Royal Family had many guests during their summers at Peles Castle. These included ladies-in-waiting, musicians, performers, and various political figures. They stayed on the top floor of Peles Castle.

While most people stay in Brasov and take a day trip to Peles Castle, there are rooms available in Sinaia. The castle marker on the map below is Peles Castle. You can change the dates, set your preferences, and zoom in and out to explore the area hotels.

When planning your trip from Brasov to Peles Castle, it’s essential to consider all available transportation options. Whether you prefer the comfort of a train, the convenience of a taxi, or the freedom of driving yourself, choosing the right option can make or break your travel experience.

Here are some great options for a private tour to Peles Castle! In addition to the options below, we have used GetTranfer to book private transfers and recommend it as well.

Reaching the Peles Castle by train is an excellent option for those who prefer a leisurely and nostalgic travel experience. The town of Sinaia has a well-connected train station that makes it easy for visitors from various parts of Romania to access this cultural gem. You can sit back, relax, and let the rhythmic clatter of the train transport you to a bygone era. As the train chugs along, you can admire the scenic beauty that unfolds outside your window and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the journey.

The train from Brasov to Sinaia takes about 1h, and the train from Bucharest takes 1h 30m to 1h 45m. Also, the trip from Sinaia Train Station to Peles Castle takes another 15 to 45 minutes depending on whether you walk, take a bus, or hail a taxi.

As of summer 2023, there is no bus from Brasov to Sinaia.

A taxi ride from Brasov to Peles Castle takes about 50 minutes. The fare for the ride is approximately 100 to 120 RON ($22 to $26).

Brasov has a few respectable taxi companies. However, we would suggest you pick an English-speaking driver and discuss the price prior to departure. Taxis are practical for small groups, but larger groups may need alternative transportation. Additionally, some drivers may offer stops at other attractions like Rasnov Fortress, adding value to the journey. To schedule a taxi or private car in advance we recommend GetTransfer.

To reach the Peles Castle by road, you can take the scenic route through winding mountain passes and verdant forests. The castle is located near Sinaia, making it easily accessible by car. As you traverse the winding roads, be prepared to witness breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, adding to the charm and allure of your journey.

If you travel by car, Sinaia is 46 km (29 miles) from Brasov, 127 km (79 miles) from Bucharest, 164 km (102 miles) from Sighisoara, and 187 km (116 miles) from Sibiu.

To rent a car to drive to Peles Castle, we recommend Discover Cars.

Peles Castle was one of the highlights of our stay in Brasov. It is one of the area’s top attractions and takes about an hour to get from Brasov to Sinaia, the town where Peles Castle is located, by train.

Address: Bulevardul Gării 1A, Brașov 500148, Romania

The trip from Brasov to Sinaia takes about 1 hour and costs 10 to 20 RON ($2.50 to $5.00) per person each way. The train runs several times per day. Check here for departure times on your travel date.

There are several options to get from the Sinaia Train Station to Peles Castle. The most scenic option is to walk about 40 minutes to the castle. After exiting the train station, you’ll need to cross the street and follow signs to the Peles Castle.

If you choose not to walk, the most economic option is to take the T1 bus from the city center. Of course, the easiest and quickest option is to take a taxi from the train station.

The train from Sinaia to Brasov runs approximately every hour. Check here for departure times on your travel date.

When planning your visit to Peles Castle, it’s essential to consider the entry fees, opening times, and what you’ll find inside to ensure an enriching visit to this iconic fortress.

Upon arrival at Peles Castle, visitors can expect to pay the following entry fee:

BASIC TOUR (GROUND FLOOR)

Adults: 50 RON

Seniors: 25 RON

Children and Students: 12.5 RON

Last admisson for the Basic Tour is 16:15.

OPTIONAL TOUR I (GROUND FLOOR + FIRST FLOOR)

Adults: 100 RON

Seniors: 50 RON

Children and Students: 25 RON

Last admission for the Optional Tour I is 15:30.

OPTIONAL TOUR II (GROUND FLOOR + FIRST FLOOR + SECOND FLOOR)

Adults: 150 RON

Seniors: 75 RON

Children and Students: 37.5 RON

Last admission for the Optional Tour II is 14:45.

Peles Castle is open to the public almost every day of the year, with a few exceptions during holidays and special events. Generally, the castle opens its gates in the morning, typically around 9:00 AM, and closes in the late afternoon or early evening.

Winter Hours (October thru April)

Monday-Tuesday: closed

Wednesday: 10:00 – 17:00

Thursday-Sunday: 09:15 – 17:00

Summer Hours (May thru September)

Monday: closed

Tuesday: 9:15 – 17:00

Wednesday: 10:00 – 17:00

Thursday-Sunday: 9:15 – 17:00

See last admission times for each tour above.

NOTE: Only the basic tour is available on Tuesdays during Summer Hours.

If you’re planning a visit to Peles Castle, here are some helpful tips to ensure you make the most of your experience:

Plan ahead and familiarize yourself with essential information about the town and castle to make the most of your time in Sinaia.

Keep in mind that Peles Castle is open from 

The best advice we received before our visit to Peles Castle was to buy our ticket in advance. If you don’t already have a ticket, be prepared to stand in line and pay for admission when you arrive at the castle.

The fees may vary depending on whether you opt for a guided tour or explore on your own. It’s advisable to check the official website of Peles Castle for the most up-to-date information on ticket prices and tour options.

Peles Castle is a popular tourist destination, so expect crowds, especially during peak travel seasons. To avoid long lines, consider arriving early or visiting later in the day when it tends to be quieter.

The weather in Transylvania can be unpredictable, so it’s a good idea to check the forecast before your visit. Also, it is advisable to dress in layers, as the castle’s interior can be cool even during warmer months.

After exploring Peles Castle, take time to stroll along the charming streets of Sinaia and soak in the atmosphere.

Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes to explore the town and castle.

Peleș Castle was the first castle in the world to be fully powered by electricity.

Peles Castle is definitely worth a visit due to its stunning beauty and unique style.

The movie “A Christmas Prince” was filmed at Peles Castle, adding to its allure and popularity among tourists. The castle’s picturesque surroundings and exquisite architecture have made it a favored location for filmmakers, further enhancing its charm.

The ticket price for Peles Castle varies depending on the type of tour and access you choose. General admission tickets start at approximately 30 lei for adults and 10 lei for children. There are also options for guided tours, which provide in-depth insights into the castle’s history and architecture. Prices for guided tours range from 50 to 100 lei per person. It is advisable to check the official website or contact the tourist center in Brasov for the most up-to-date information regarding ticket prices and availability.

There are several options to get from the Sinaia Train Station to Peles Castle. The most scenic option is to walk about 40 minutes to the castle. The economic option (aside from walking) is to take the T1 bus from the city center. The easiest and quickest option is to take a taxi from the train station.

It’s a beautiful castle that is definitely worth visiting. The rooms are decorated and furnished with a mixture of styles. Guided tours are available, and when we visited, there were many tourists visiting from all over the world.

No, the admission fee can be paid with cash (LEI only) or by card.

In addition to Peles Castle, there are several other great day trips from Brasov, including:

• Pelisor Castle
• Sinaia Monastery
• Bran Castle
• Rasnov Fortress
• Prejmer Fortified Church