Bucharest, Romania

Snagov Monastery & Mogoșoaia Palace

Romania’s Houses of Retreat Visit a striking 14th-century island monastery and a magnificent palace, two treasures of Romanian culture. Drive with your guide to the rustic village of Snagov and the Snagov Forest, a protected area of oak, hornbeam and lime trees and a picturesque lake. Upon arrival at the lake’s shore, you will cross the bridge onto an islet that has hosted the Snagov Monastery for almost 700 years. This imposing-looking building has been a place of refuge, escape and imprisonment since its founding. One of the most notorious historic figures associated with it is the Walachian prince Vlad the Impaler, immortalized in literature as Dracula. He is said to be buried inside the ornately decorated sanctuary. After time to explore, continue to the Mogoșoaia Palace, a splendid work in the Brâncovenesc style, a blend of Ottoman and Venetian. Set in elegant gardens, this history museum and art gallery was once home to Romanian nobles. * Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.