Pelișor Castle Sinaia
A breathtaking Neo-Renaissance masterpiece and former royal summer residence, Peles Castle enchants with its opulent interiors and stunning mountain s...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds for a serene experience.
Pelișor Castle Sinaia
Best Time
Beat the crowds for a serene experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking Neo-Renaissance masterpiece and former royal summer residence, Peles Castle enchants with its opulent interiors and stunning mountain setting.
"This is an absolute jewel box of a historic site, just chock full of exquisite holdings!"
Book Peles tickets online
Avoid long queues by purchasing your Peles Castle tickets in advance online.
Combine with Peleșor
Don't miss Peleșor Castle; it's smaller but equally stunning and often less crowded.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Peleș Castle's Grandeur
Sinaia
A neo-Renaissance masterpiece, this former royal summer residence dazzles with its intricate architecture and opulent interiors.
Peleșor Castle's Intimacy
Sinaia
A smaller, charming palace showcasing Art Nouveau style and a more personal look at royal family life.
The Golden Room
Peleșor Castle
An intimate space adorned with exquisite gold detailing, offering a glimpse into the refined tastes of royalty.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Peles Castle Tickets in Advance
Peleșor Castle: A Worthy Companion
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Peles tickets online
Avoid long queues by purchasing your Peles Castle tickets in advance online.
Combine with Peleșor
Don't miss Peleșor Castle; it's smaller but equally stunning and often less crowded.
Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking inside and around the castle grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Check opening hours
Hours can vary seasonally, so confirm before your visit.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Peles tickets online
Avoid long queues by purchasing your Peles Castle tickets in advance online.
Combine with Peleșor
Don't miss Peleșor Castle; it's smaller but equally stunning and often less crowded.
Wear comfortable shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking inside and around the castle grounds. :athletic_shoe:
Check opening hours
Hours can vary seasonally, so confirm before your visit.
Photography restrictions
Be aware of where photography is allowed inside the castles. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Peles Castle for its breathtaking architecture and opulent interiors, calling it a 'jewel box' of Romanian history. Peleșor Castle is also highly recommended for its intimate charm and unique Art Nouveau style. Some guests note that interior photography is restricted and that staff can sometimes be perceived as strict.
"A very good castle, most of the rooms are visitable and very interesting + history worth. The staff are very helpful and there are guides for different languages, spanish, romanian and english. Overall recommended"
Liam Verden
"Very underrated! I wasn't expecting the castle to be this big! It is less flooded with people than the Peles and the experience is as stunning! I recommend."
awchille
"Beautiful (more so on the outside than the inside). It’s worth seeing and not overpriced (£5/person), don’t need a specific hour/slot booked to enter. Deducting 2 stars because they are OVERstaffed - think too many ladies who haven’t had any action in forever: frustrated and yelling at tourists to shut the door. Suppose whoever runs the place is too cheap to turn on the heating so it is COLD inside. Here is a tip: fire 3 frustrated women who do nothing anyway and place a couple radiators inside. Oh, some of the employees were eating sunflower seeds inside and talking about how they have to hit a 40 hour/week target or whatever. Pathetic."
Denisa Ungureanu (Jiinxii)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way to reach Peles Castle from Bucharest is by train to Sinaia station, which takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. From the station, it's a pleasant uphill walk (around 20-30 minutes) or a short taxi/bus ride to the castle. Renting a car also offers flexibility for exploring the region. +1
Yes, Peles Castle is a very popular day trip from Bucharest. You can take an early train or drive, spend a few hours exploring the castles, and return to Bucharest in the evening.
Sinaia is a walkable town, and both Peles and Peleșor castles are relatively close to each other. Comfortable shoes are recommended for the uphill walk from the train station or town center. Taxis are also available. :athletic_shoe:
Yes, there are parking areas available near Peles Castle, but they can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Arriving early is advisable if you are driving. :car:
Absolutely! Trains run frequently from Bucharest to Sinaia. From the Sinaia train station, you can walk or take a local bus or taxi to reach the castle.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices for Peles Castle vary depending on the tour option. Generally, a ticket for the ground floor is around 50 lei, while access to the first and second floors costs more (up to 150 lei for a full tour). Peleșor Castle has a separate, lower admission fee.
It is highly recommended to book your Peles Castle tickets online in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons, to avoid long queues and ensure entry.
Opening hours for Peles Castle can vary by season and day of the week. It's best to check the official website or local listings for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
No, Peles and Peleșor Castles are separate attractions and require separate tickets. However, they are located close to each other, making it easy to visit both in one day.
Occasionally, there might be special free entry days, such as on Romania's National Day (December 1st), but this is not a regular occurrence. It's best to check for specific promotions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
A visit to Peles Castle typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the tour you choose and crowd levels. Visiting Peleșor Castle adds an extra 45 minutes to an hour.
Photography is generally not allowed inside the main rooms of Peles Castle. You may be able to take photos in certain designated areas or outside. Check for signage. :camerawithflash:
Peles Castle is a larger, more elaborate royal residence, while Peleșor Castle is a smaller, more intimate palace designed in Art Nouveau style. Peleșor was built as a summer residence for the future King Ferdinand and Queen Marie.
Yes, guided tours are available at Peles Castle, often led by knowledgeable guides who can share historical insights. You can also opt for audio guides or explore with provided written materials.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential as there's a bit of a walk uphill to the castle. Dress in layers, as the interior can be cool, especially outside of summer. :athletic_shoe:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are typically cafes and small eateries located near the entrance of Peles Castle where you can grab a snack or a drink. For a more substantial meal, you'll find restaurants in the town of Sinaia. :coffee:
It's generally not permitted to bring food and drinks inside the castle interiors to preserve the historical artifacts. There are designated areas outside where you can consume them. :apple:
Sinaia offers a range of dining options, from traditional Romanian cuisine to international dishes. Look for restaurants in the town center for a good selection. :forkandknife:
📸 📸 Photography
The exterior of Peles Castle, especially with the surrounding mountains, offers stunning photographic opportunities. The courtyard and the approach to the castle are also great for capturing its grandeur. :camerawithflash:
Drone photography is generally restricted in and around historical sites like Peles Castle to protect the structures and ensure visitor safety. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
Photography inside Peles Castle is usually prohibited to protect the delicate interiors and artifacts. You might be able to take photos in specific areas or with a special permit, but it's best to assume it's not allowed. :camerawithflash:
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for exterior shots. Midday can be harsh, but the intricate details of the castle are still impressive. :sunriseovermountains:
Yes, Peleșor Castle also offers lovely photo opportunities, both externally and in its more accessible interior spaces. Its charming architecture makes for beautiful shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While photography is restricted inside, encourage kids to observe and remember the unique features of each room. The nearby town of Sinaia also offers opportunities for short walks and enjoying the mountain air. Bringing snacks and drinks for younger children is advisable, as dining options within the immediate castle vicinity are limited. :apple: :running:
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own snacks and water to avoid purchasing from more expensive on-site vendors. Look for local eateries in Sinaia town for more reasonably priced meals compared to tourist-focused cafes.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
While interior photography is restricted, focus on capturing the stunning details of the facade, the surrounding gardens, and the approach to the castle. Peleșor Castle also offers beautiful photographic potential, with its charming architecture and often fewer crowds.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Royal History of Peles Castle
Its construction involved over 300 artisans and craftsmen, both Romanian and European, contributing to its lavish interiors. Each room boasts a distinct theme and style, from the Florentine salon to the Moorish-inspired drawing-room. The castle's strategic location in the Carpathian Mountains also offered a picturesque and secluded retreat for the royals.
After the abolition of the monarchy in 1947, Peles Castle was nationalized and eventually opened to the public as a museum. Despite some damage from neglect and time, extensive restoration efforts are ongoing, showcasing Romania's commitment to preserving its rich cultural heritage.
Exploring Peleșor Castle: A Royal Retreat
+1While smaller than Peles, Peleșor is no less captivating. Its interiors are adorned with exquisite Art Nouveau furniture, stained glass, and intricate wood carvings, reflecting the personal tastes of its royal inhabitants. The 'Golden Room' is a particular highlight, showcasing opulent gold detailing.
Many visitors find Peleșor to be a delightful surprise, offering a less crowded and more focused exploration of royal living. It provides a wonderful contrast to the grandeur of Peles, allowing for a deeper appreciation of the Hohenzollern family's artistic sensibilities and lifestyle.
Visiting Peles Castle in Different Seasons
Winter brings a fairytale atmosphere, especially when dusted with snow. The castle looks like a scene from a storybook, and the snowy landscapes of Sinaia add to the enchantment. Be prepared for colder temperatures and potentially icy paths.
+1Spring and summer offer lush greenery and pleasant weather, ideal for exploring the castle grounds and enjoying the mountain scenery. However, these are also peak tourist seasons, so expect larger crowds.
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