
Cantacuzino Castle Bușteni
A Neo-Romanian architectural gem in Bușteni, famous as the exterior of 'Wednesday's' Nevermore Academy, offering stunning mountain views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Cantacuzino Castle Bușteni
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Neo-Romanian architectural gem in Bușteni, famous as the exterior of 'Wednesday's' Nevermore Academy, offering stunning mountain views.
"It's a must-see for 'Wednesday' fans and lovers of stunning architecture with incredible mountain vistas."

📸 Capture the 'Wednesday' Vibe
Recreate iconic 'Wednesday' scenes from the exterior. The terrace offers great photo ops!
⛰️ Enjoy Mountain Views
Don't miss the stunning Bucegi Mountains vistas from the castle terrace. Perfect for a relaxing moment.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Nevermore Academy Exterior
Castle Grounds
Channel your inner Wednesday Addams by posing at the castle's exterior, famously known as Nevermore Academy.

Bucegi Mountains View
Terrace
Savor breathtaking panoramic views of the majestic Bucegi Mountains from the castle's scenic terrace.

Neo-Romanian Architecture
Castle Interior & Exterior
Admire the intricate Neo-Romanian architectural style, a blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Art Nouveau influences.

The 'Secret Room'
Interior Tour
Explore the room that served as a filming location for 'Wednesday,' offering a glimpse into the show's gothic aesthetic.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the 'Wednesday' Connection
Tour Options & Value
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the 'Wednesday' Vibe
Recreate iconic 'Wednesday' scenes from the exterior. The terrace offers great photo ops!
⛰️ Enjoy Mountain Views
Don't miss the stunning Bucegi Mountains vistas from the castle terrace. Perfect for a relaxing moment.
🎟️ Choose Your Access Wisely
Consider just grounds access or the 'secret room' if the full tour seems too long or pricey.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing some walking around the grounds and potentially inside.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the 'Wednesday' Vibe
Recreate iconic 'Wednesday' scenes from the exterior. The terrace offers great photo ops!
⛰️ Enjoy Mountain Views
Don't miss the stunning Bucegi Mountains vistas from the castle terrace. Perfect for a relaxing moment.
🎟️ Choose Your Access Wisely
Consider just grounds access or the 'secret room' if the full tour seems too long or pricey.
👟 Comfortable Shoes Recommended
You'll be doing some walking around the grounds and potentially inside.
🚗 Parking Availability
Free parking is often available nearby, but check for any associated fees for castle access.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Cantacuzino Castle is praised for its stunning architecture and breathtaking mountain views, with the 'Wednesday' filming connection being a major draw for many visitors. However, some find the interior tour to be slow-paced and overpriced, with limited English explanations, leading them to recommend focusing on the exterior and grounds for a more satisfying experience.
"We visited Cantacuzino Castle as part of a tour group and only paid for access to the grounds, and honestly, we were glad we did! This cost us approximately £5 per person (or around 30 RON).
The Vibe: This is a beautiful piece of Neo-Romanian architecture, but the true star of the show is the location. The views outside the castle are absolutely gob-smacking. Walking the grounds provides fantastic views of the surrounding woodlands and the majestic Bucegi Mountain range—the scenery here is truly world-class.
For Fans: It was a fun bonus to see the various cutouts and photo opportunities referencing the Netflix series "Wednesday," as the castle served as the exterior of Nevermore Academy. It's clear the castle is embracing its new pop culture fame.
Verdict: If you are short on time, focusing on the exterior and the general grounds is a great way to experience this spot. Come for the Carpathian views and the atmospheric walk, and enjoy the castle as a dramatic backdrop."
Dazneyland
"Absolutely stunning views of the mountains and the castle itself is well worth a visit. The guided tour is quick although it has alot of information about the history and theres a lovely cafe outside where you can also walk freely through the courtyard and castle grounds. Very scenic and plenty of great photo opportunities."
steven durnan
"The view from the castle is absolutely amazing — one of the best mountain views I’ve ever seen! The guided tour was great; even though there isn’t a huge amount of information about the castle itself, the guide explained everything very thoroughly and with great attention. It was quite crowded (probably because of the Wednesday series filming), and the weather was cold and rainy, but honestly, that breathtaking view made it totally worth it! 🏰🌧️🌄"
Anita-Edina Szabó
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cantacuzino Castle is located in Bușteni, Romania. You can reach Bușteni by car via the DN1 road from Bucharest or Brașov. Alternatively, trains run regularly from Bucharest and Brașov to Bușteni. Once in Bușteni, the castle is a short walk or taxi ride away.
Yes, there is parking available near the castle. Some sources mention free parking nearby, while others note that you may need to pay for parking in addition to castle entrance fees. It's advisable to check on arrival.
Absolutely! Cantacuzino Castle is a popular day trip destination from both Bucharest and Brașov. The journey by car or train is manageable, allowing you to explore the castle and its surroundings within a day.
For convenience and scenic views, driving is a great option. However, taking a train to Bușteni is also a popular and efficient choice, especially if you prefer not to drive.
While the castle is within walking distance from the Bușteni train station for some, local taxis or buses can be used for a shorter journey if needed.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary. Some visitors have reported paying for full access for adults and children, with a total cost of around 325 RON for a family of four. It's recommended to check the official website or inquire upon arrival for the most current pricing.
While advance booking might not always be strictly necessary, it's a good idea to check if it's recommended, especially during peak season or if you want to secure a specific tour time.
Full access typically includes a guided tour of the interior, access to the 'secret room,' and potentially other exhibition areas. However, some visitors feel the internal tour is not worth the cost.
Yes, it's often possible to visit the castle grounds and enjoy the views without taking the full interior tour. This is a more budget-friendly option for those primarily interested in the exterior and scenery.
Yes, there appear to be different options, including full access with a guided tour, and potentially separate tickets for specific areas like the 'secret room' or just grounds access.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Yes, if you're a 'Wednesday' fan, visiting the exterior of Cantacuzino Castle, which served as Nevermore Academy, is a must. While the interior tour focuses on history, the iconic exterior shots are a major draw.
A full guided tour can take around 2 hours. However, if you're only exploring the grounds or visiting specific areas, your visit could be shorter, perhaps 1-2 hours.
The 'secret room' is an interior space that was used for filming 'Wednesday.' It's a key attraction for fans of the series.
Some visitors have noted that guides primarily speak Romanian, with information available in other languages via QR codes. This can make the tour less engaging for non-Romanian speakers.
The castle's exterior, especially the terrace with mountain views, and the gardens are excellent for photos. Fans of 'Wednesday' will want to capture shots of the castle's facade.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe or restaurant on the castle grounds, often mentioned as a place to enjoy a drink with beautiful mountain views.
The restaurant typically offers a selection of drinks and light meals. It's a great spot to relax after exploring the castle and enjoy the scenery.
Many visitors recommend enjoying a drink or a snack at the cafe for the views, rather than expecting a full fine-dining experience. It's more about the ambiance and the scenery.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally best to consume your own food and drinks in designated picnic areas outside the main castle premises, if available. Check local regulations.
Information on specific dietary options is limited. It's advisable to inquire directly with the cafe staff upon arrival for current menu offerings.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon, especially during the golden hour, offers beautiful lighting for photography. Weekdays also tend to be less crowded, allowing for unobstructed shots.
Photography rules can vary. While exterior shots are generally encouraged, interior photography might be restricted or require special permission, especially during guided tours.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for capturing both the architecture and the expansive mountain views. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the castle's interiors and exteriors.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites and national parks. It's best to assume drones are not permitted unless explicitly stated otherwise by the castle management.
The main facade, the terrace overlooking the Bucegi Mountains, the gardens, and the 'secret room' are all highly photogenic.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider opting for grounds access to let kids explore the gardens and enjoy the mountain views. The 'secret room' might also be a hit. Pack snacks and drinks, as dining options might be limited to a cafe.
🎬 'Wednesday' Series Fans
While the interior tour focuses on history, the 'secret room' offers a direct connection to the show's filming. Don't miss the chance to capture stunning photos of the castle's gothic facade against the backdrop of the Bucegi Mountains.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For 'Wednesday' fans, capturing the castle's exterior, especially with dramatic lighting, is a must. Consider visiting during the golden hour for the best light. The intricate details of the stonework and the panoramic views are perfect for landscape and architectural photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Wednesday' Connection: From Castle to Nevermore Academy
While the show's magic was enhanced with CGI for a more sinister look, the real-life castle provides an authentic and awe-inspiring backdrop. Visitors can capture photos and videos that evoke the eerie charm of Nevermore, making it a pilgrimage site for fans of the series. The castle's strategic location in Bușteni, nestled against the Bucegi Mountains, further adds to its dramatic and cinematic appeal.
It's important for visitors to note that the interior of the castle is a historical museum and art exhibition, not a replica of Nevermore's interiors. However, the 'secret room' offers a direct link to the show's filming, providing a tangible connection for fans.
Architectural Marvel and Historical Significance
The castle's exterior is adorned with intricate stonework, towers, and balconies, creating a fairytale-like appearance. Inside, visitors can explore rooms filled with art, historical artifacts, and decorative elements that speak to the grandeur of the Cantacuzino family. The castle also features a beautiful park with a grotto and waterfalls, adding to its picturesque charm.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the castle holds historical significance as a testament to the architectural and cultural heritage of Romania. Its construction during a period of national revival aimed to promote a distinct Romanian style, blending influences from various European movements.
Experiencing the Castle: Tours, Views, and Dining
A major highlight for all visitors is the stunning panoramic view of the Bucegi Mountains from the castle's terrace. This scenic spot is perfect for relaxation and photography, offering a breathtaking natural backdrop. The castle also has a cafe or restaurant where visitors can enjoy refreshments while taking in the views, though it's more about the ambiance than gourmet dining.
For those who prefer a more independent exploration or find the full tour unappealing, accessing the castle grounds and enjoying the exterior and views is a popular option. Some reviews suggest that paying for just the grounds or specific areas like the 'secret room' might be a more cost-effective choice.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit