Snagov Monastery — Attraction in Snagov

My journey to Snagov Monastery was everything I hoped it would be. Parking was easy, there's a free lot near the entrance to the bridge. Be warned: there's an old man who wanders around outside the lot promising to "watch your car" while you're in the monastery. He's perfectly harmless and really just wants a few leu. It's like 40 cents, I think you can afford it to make an old man smile.

When I was crossing the bridge to get to the island, it was under construction, but I had no problems getting across.

The island itself was beautiful and quiet the entire time I was there, no other tourists arrived, so I guess I came on the right day. There was a young boy who took my entrance fee (I think it was 5 leu, but I gave him a 10 and told him to keep the change as a tip. Literally $4 folks...).

After taking my fee, he opened the doors of the sanctuary building and let me on my own. I was able to walk around and really take my time looking at all the amazing murals and religious icons in the sanctuary. I took as many pictures and videos as I wanted with no problems. There's an information board with info mostly in Romanian, but there are a lot of pictures, so you can kind of get the gist.

The island itself is a pleasure to walk around and you can do so on your own while admiring the architecture of the building. There is a little dock on the south side of the island where you can get an excellent view of the lake and the opposite shore. I believe there's an old government palace across the shore, which is now a public community building.

I really enjoyed my experience at Snagov Monastery, which was my very first tourist stop in Romania, just a short drive north of Bucharest. Seeing the actual tomb of Vlad the Impaler provided me a new perspective on his life and guided me in creating the Tarot of...

It's definitely worth it if you're interested in Vlad/Dracula history. I read quite a few reviews saying it's nothing special and to do do Mogosoaia Palace instead (which I found disappointing). It is a small monastery, but lovely nonetheless.

I read a few blogs/posts advising how to get here by public transport from Bucharest and my attempts were a total fail. Also asking at the bus information/ticket offices proved unsuccessful. If you search the internet, you will find guidance to go to the tram area at Piața Presei Libere, and get a maxi-taxi 444 or bus 443 to Siliștea Snagovului. When I asked at the ticket office, they kept directing me to buses going to Snagov plaza (443, 446, 447), but that stop is at least a 3-4 hr walk to the monastery. Then a staff member told me to get a bus stopping at an undefined "Monasterii" but it was between stops that were no where near Snagov. There were no buses going to Siliștea Snagovului (which is a 30 min walk to the monastery). There are only 2 maxi-taxis: 448 that does not go any where near the monastery and 444 (on the hour, last bus back at 6pm) which goes to Snagov village. I was told by someone on the maxi 444 that the stop in Snagov village is about 2 hr walk to the monastery, and that you can ask the driver to drop you off a bit further/closer to the monastery, but that it is still at least 1.5 hr walk to the monastery. In the end I got lucky with a taxi driver that was willing to do a return trip for 150 lei. All tours were sold out during my stay, but I recommend just doing a guided day tour from Bucharest.

I didn't have to pay for entry or to take pics. I didn't notice anyone else having...

A visit to Snagov Monastery is more than just a trip to a historical site; it's a unique excursion to a place steeped in both spiritual and historical legend. A Journey to a Hidden Island Located on an island in the middle of Lake Snagov, getting to the monastery is part of the experience. The journey, often by boat, adds a sense of peaceful seclusion, making you feel as though you are leaving the modern world behind to enter a place untouched by time. The serene waters of the lake and the lush greenery of the surrounding area create a tranquil and beautiful setting. A Place of Legend and History The monastery itself is a beautiful and quiet place, with a solemn atmosphere that encourages reflection. It is famous for a single, compelling reason: it is the rumored final resting place of Vlad the Impaler. While the historical truth of his burial site remains a subject of debate, visiting the small, unassuming tomb inside the church is a powerful and mysterious experience. It is a moment where history and legend collide, and you can't help but feel a sense of awe. A Worthwhile Excursion Snagov Monastery is not a simple walk-up attraction; it's a destination that requires a bit of effort to reach, but it is well worth it. The combination of the beautiful natural setting, the tranquil atmosphere of the monastery, and the captivating legend of Vlad the Impaler makes it a fascinating and memorable trip. It is a highly recommended excursion for anyone with an interest in history, legend, or simply a peaceful escape from the city.

There is strong energy felt...