Bran

Bran is a small town tucked in the Carpathian Mountains of Romania, most famous for its connection to Bram Stoker's Dracula legend. The imposing Bran Castle, often referred to as "Dracula's Castle," sits on a hilltop overlooking the town, drawing visitors from all over the world. Despite this spooky association, the truth is that Vlad the Impaler (the historical figure who inspired Dracula) likely spent very little time here, if any at all.

The town itself has a charming old-world feel with traditional Romanian houses, local craft markets, and restaurants serving hearty Transylvanian cuisine. The surrounding landscape is stunning, with rolling hills, dense forests, and mountain peaks that change colors with the seasons.

What many visitors don't realize is that Bran has a rich history beyond vampire tales. The castle was actually a fortress built by Teutonic Knights in the 13th century and later served as a royal residence for Queen Marie of Romania. The town's rural culture is still alive with traditions dating back centuries, and if you're lucky, you might catch locals wearing traditional attire during festivals.

While Bran can get crowded with tourists during peak season, it still maintains its authentic Romanian character and serves as a great base for exploring the beautiful Transylvanian countryside.