Spend a Weekend in Sinaia: Escape Bucharest and Feel Like Royalty
Last Updated on January 13, 2025 by Ingrid
Living in Bucharest is nice, although it is one of the most crowded European capitals. Having lived in the city for the past 30 years, I have developed some sort of strange relationship with it. But in every relationship, one needs a bit of “me time,” and when I get that feeling, I spend a weekend in Sinaia.
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Weekend in Sinaia
This charming little city at the foot of the Carpathian mountains will always take me in its arms and shelter me for a few days, only to let me go back to my longtime lover, Bucharest.
Given the history (I have returned to this city at least once per year for the last 15 years), many might ask me what draws me back and how I never grew tired or bored of this place.
Sure, it is a small town with few places to visit. Yet, you can still tell that the city has always been a stylish little corner of Romania.
Here is where, in 1874, Carol I, the first King of Romania, built the Peles Castle. And I can totally understand why, looking at the location chosen, the wide green lawn, the breathtaking view from the castle’s terrace, and the stunning forest surrounding it.
When I was a child, I used to come here with my parents, be it Summer or Winter, sit at the beautiful Economat Terrace, and savor a delicious cake while imagining how it would have been to have this sumptuous castle as a residence. I still do that occasionally because that’s how I get disconnected from the daily craze. I’ve just replaced the cake with a good glass of Prosecco 😛
But don’t leave Sinaia without visiting Pelisor Castle, the smaller villa hidden in the heart of the forest. It is not as palatial as Peles but more tranquil. Also, walk (literally, not by car, please) on the winding roads going up and down, stopping occasionally to admire the old imposing houses built with rocks and wood, sitting pretty.
Where to stay in Sinaia, Romania
Even though you won’t be able to rent a room in one of the two castles, don’t get upset too soon. You can always rent a room at Vila Economat, La Tunuri. It’s not quite inside the castle, but it’s as close as it gets.
Another option, very close to the center of the city, where you will have access to a nice and relaxing SPA as well, is the International Hotel. A 4* Hotel offers easy access to Sinaia’s most important sites.
If you want to try something more traditional but still at a 5* level, book a weekend at Opus Villa or Oblique Villa. Both are away from the city but remotely located close to the forest.
Booking.comWhere to eat in Sinaia, Romania
Go for something traditional at Bucegi Restaurant. This is my favorite place for breakfast, even when I’m only driving past Sinaia. The omelet here is delicious and filling.
If you want to try something more international, go for a tasty pasta dish or a well-done fish at Cucina Sofia restaurant. Don’t leave without tasting an incredible Tiramisu, which will help you go uphill.
If you want to try something sweet and warm up with a good cup of tea, try spending a few hours in the oasis of stillness you will find at Casa Teo. You can also opt for spending the night here where nothing will bother you, except maybe your thoughts 😉
If you have tried one or more of these places, please don’t leave Sinaia without trying the sweets and salty corn (boiled or baked) you will most certainly find on your way from the castle to the city center. Everything from homemade chocolate to tasty sesame with honey, delicious nougat, or rich gingerbread will enchant your taste.
Have a lovely weekend in Sinaia!
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La restaurante cu specific romanesc de adaugat Restaurantul Vanatoresc Furnica.Este chiar langa parcarea autocarelor de la castelul Peles.
Asa este! Cumva nu am ajuns niciodata sa mananc acolo desi intotdeauna trec pe langa si am zis sa intram. Next time cu siguranta 🙂