Snagov Monastery
Island monastery rumored to be Vlad the Impaler's burial site, featuring a small medieval church and a tranquil lake setting.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Snagov Monastery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Island monastery rumored to be Vlad the Impaler's burial site, featuring a small medieval church and a tranquil lake setting.
"A beautiful small church on an island, rumored to be Dracula's tomb."
🚗 Car is King
Public transport is unreliable; a car is best for reaching Snagov Monastery.
💰 Small Entry Fee
Expect a small fee (around 2 Euros) to enter the church itself.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vlad the Impaler's Alleged Tomb
Inside the Monastery Church
Explore the crypt believed to be the final resting place of the infamous Vlad the Impaler, adding a layer of historical intrigue.
Island Sanctuary
Snagov Lake
Enjoy the tranquil setting of this medieval church situated on an island, accessible via a picturesque bridge.
Medieval Church Interior
Monastery Church
Admire the beautiful, traditional Romanian interior of this small, historic church.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Snagov Monastery
Visiting the Monastery
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Car is King
Public transport is unreliable; a car is best for reaching Snagov Monastery.
💰 Small Entry Fee
Expect a small fee (around 2 Euros) to enter the church itself.
📸 Photo Permit
Photography inside the church may require an additional fee.
🚶♀️ Bridge Walk
You'll walk across a bridge to reach the island where the monastery is located.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Car is King
Public transport is unreliable; a car is best for reaching Snagov Monastery.
💰 Small Entry Fee
Expect a small fee (around 2 Euros) to enter the church itself.
📸 Photo Permit
Photography inside the church may require an additional fee.
🚶♀️ Bridge Walk
You'll walk across a bridge to reach the island where the monastery is located.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Snagov Monastery is praised for its beautiful island setting and the intriguing legend of Vlad the Impaler's burial. Visitors appreciate the small, historic church and the peaceful atmosphere, especially on weekdays. However, some find the experience underwhelming, noting the limited attractions beyond the church and the perceived museum-like feel, with occasional negative comments about local interactions and the condition of facilities. +1
"Most beautiful site monastery. Vlad the Impaler is buried here tomb. You must go if your in the area. Very interesting and informative. The lady's there are very helpful. There is no fee to to get in only if you want to donate. The village people are very friendly."
Michael Stone
"A nice small church, very beautiful inside. Located on island, you have to cross a bridge. To enter the church we had to pay around 2 Euros pro person. And you definitely have to go by car there - the buses take so long and don't seem to go regularly. From the church it's about 15 minutes to the next bus stop. On the territory there's just this church and a building under reconstruction."
Tanja Samarina
"To reach the monastery floating on the lake, we got out of the car at the bridge and crossed on foot. Perhaps because it was a weekday during summer vacation, we were the only visitors. The interior decoration of the monastery is in a style seen throughout Romania, and you can take photos for a fee."
Yasutaka Machimura
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way to reach Snagov Monastery is by car, as public transport is infrequent and time-consuming. You'll drive to the bridge and then walk across to the island.
While buses do go to the area, they are very slow and don't run regularly. It can take around 15 minutes to walk from the nearest bus stop to the monastery.
You can drive to the bridge that leads to the island, but you will need to park and walk the rest of the way.
Renting a car or hiring a taxi from Bucharest is the most convenient option for visiting Snagov Monastery.
Parking is available near the bridge leading to the island, before you begin your walk to the monastery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the monastery grounds is typically free, but there is a small fee, around 2 Euros per person, to enter the church itself.
Tickets are usually purchased on-site for entry into the church. It's advisable to check for any specific booking requirements, especially during peak season.
Opening hours can vary, and it's best to check locally or online before your visit. The church may have specific times it's open to visitors.
Yes, photography inside the church often requires an additional fee.
Donations are welcome and appreciated to help with the upkeep of the monastery.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The main attractions are the medieval church and the alleged tomb of Vlad the Impaler. The island setting itself is also quite picturesque. +1
Some visitors feel it functions more like a museum, with an entry fee for the church, rather than a vibrant, active monastery.
It is famously rumored to be the burial site of Vlad the Impaler, a key figure in Romanian history.
While it can be visited as part of a day trip, some travelers suggest it might not be worth dedicating a full day if you have limited time in Romania, recommending other destinations like Sinaia or Brasov instead.
Public toilet facilities may be limited or not well-maintained, according to some visitor experiences.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, but there is usually an extra fee for photography inside the church.
The island setting, the bridge leading to the monastery, and the exterior of the church offer scenic photo opportunities.
The historical architecture and the unique island location make it a visually interesting spot for photographers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
History Buffs & Folklore Enthusiasts
Consider visiting on a weekday to experience the monastery with fewer crowds, allowing for a more contemplative and immersive historical experience. The small, medieval church itself holds a quiet charm that complements the rich historical narrative.
Day-Trippers from Bucharest
Combine your visit with exploring the surrounding lake area if time permits. Remember to factor in the small entry fee for the church and potential photography charges. If you're on a tight schedule, prioritize destinations like Sinaia or Brasov, which offer a broader range of attractions.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Legend of Vlad the Impaler
The allure of Vlad the Impaler makes Snagov Monastery a significant site for those interested in Romanian history and folklore. The monastery itself is a small, medieval church, adding to the mystique of its potential royal burial. The atmosphere, combined with the historical narrative, creates a unique visitor experience.
Navigating to the Island Sanctuary
While the walk across the bridge is straightforward, getting to that point can be challenging. Public transportation options are limited and often inconvenient, leading many visitors to opt for private transport. Renting a car is frequently recommended by travelers as the most efficient and flexible way to reach the monastery, allowing for easier access and the ability to explore the surrounding area.
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Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit