Are you visiting Romania – or exploring the magic of Transylvania – and wondering if Viscri is worth visiting?
Tucked away in central Romania, Viscri is something of a hidden gem. Surrounded by wide open meadows, gentle rolling hills and scattered apple orchards, Viscri was – until recently – largely left off the tourist trail.
With a population of just over 400, for years Viscri went quietly about its rural life – authentic and (charmingly) out of step with the modern world. However, a chance visit by a British royal changed everything.
Following a visit from the (now) King Charles III, Viscri soon became one of Romania’s most talked-about villages, celebrated for its UNESCO-listed fortified church, its beautifully preserved Saxon architecture and a lovingly restored royal guesthouse.
But – and despite all this – is Viscri worth visiting? Should you include Viscri on your Romanian road trip? Having visited last autumn, I definitely think so – I completely fell in love with this tiny village and I’m already planning my return.
Here’s why.
How to Get to Viscri, Romania
If you’re travelling through Transyvlania, then Viscri is pretty easy to get to – situated between some of the region’s main tourist hotspots, including Brasov and Sighisoara.
Getting to Viscri By Car
The easiest and most flexible way to reach Viscri is by car. It’s located about:
- 90 minutes from Brașov
- 2.5 hours from Sibiu
- 4–5 hours from Bucharest
Take note: the final stretch of road to Viscri is bumpy and unpaved – which only adds to the adventure (and the isolation). However, but it’s best navigated slowly and if you have a hire car, definitely be wary of pot holes. It’s not the best place to get a burst tyre.
When we were driving along it, multiple horse and carts flew past – towering bales of hay teetering precariously on their backs. It was wonderfully chaotic, but not a straightforward driving experience.
By Train or Local Transport
If travelling by train to Viscri, you can take one to Rupea (the nearest town with a train station) and then take a taxi to the village (about 15–20 minutes). Some guesthouses in Viscri offer pickup from Rupea if arranged in advance.
By Bike or Hike
If you’re feeling adventurous or particularly energetic, then Viscri is part of several Transylvanian biking and hiking trails. These include sections of the Via Transilvanica – a long-distance trail running north to south through Romania.
This wasn’t for us – but if you’re planning an active or outdoorsy trip to Transylvania, then it’s an option definitely worth exploring.
Can You Stay in Viscri?
There are indeed hotels in Viscri.
Although a small village, Viscri has embraced its newfound fame – opening a handful of small, thoughtfully restored guesthouses that reflect the village’s character and traditions.
You won’t find five-star hotels or spas – and that’s exactly the point. Accommodation in Viscri is about authenticity. The guesthouses are often set in restored Saxon homes, featuring thick stone walls, handwoven textiles, creaky wooden floors and tiny courtyards.
Most guesthouses are family-run and many serve home-cooked meals made with produce from gardens or local farms.
During our own homestay lunch in the village, we enjoyed plenty of delicious fresh cheese, wood-fired bread, orchard fruit, and a slow-cooked stew.
Best Places to Stay in Viscri
Viscri 125
Viscri 125 is one of the most beautifully restored homes in the village – comfy and full of traditional charm. Offering a super friendly welcome, alongside excellent food, it’s a great place to stay if you’re looking to experience authentic Viscri. If you’re visiting during the summer months, then the garden is a beautiful and fragrant place to sit, with some fresh coffee.
Book Viscri 125 here.
Viscri 9
An alternative to Viscri 125 is Viscri 9 (you might sense a theme with regards to the names of the guesthouses).
Featuring a larger courtyard, a perfect place to enjoy the BBQ facilities, this spotless guesthouse also offers an enormous – and delicious – breakfast.
Book Viscri 9 here.
Casa Prințului de Wales (The Prince’s House)
One of Viscri’s most unexpected highlights is a house owned by King Charles III (a definite reason why Viscri is worth visiting).
Far from being a royal palace, this beautiful blue cottage is a painstakingly restored example of traditional Transylvanian architecture. It was purchased by King Charles in the early 2000s and renovated with the help of local craftspeople.
Today, the house operates as a guesthouse. Rooms are tastefully decorated in traditional Saxon style – all wooden beams, handmade linens, clay tiles and antique furniture. It’s not luxurious in any modern sense – there’s no Wi-Fi and no TV – but that’s precisely the charm.
The guesthouse includes three heritage cottages with seven rooms in total, each with a private bathroom and access to peaceful gardens or terraces. Rates typically start at £105 per night, including breakfast made from local ingredients. You can book your stay here.
Is Viscri Worth Visiting? 7 Reasons to Visit this Beautiful Village
The History of Viscri
Before we explore why Viscri is worth visiting – a little history about this tiny Transylvanian settlement.
Viscri’s history began around 800 years, when a small settlement in the heart of Transylvania was founded. In the 12th century, Saxon settlers from (what is now) Germany were invited to the region by the Hungarian crown to fortify the area against invasions. In fact, the village’s name is believed to come from the German ‘Weißkirch’ meaning ‘White Church’ – a reference to the fortified church that still stands today.
Over time, Viscri developed into a thriving Saxon village, dominated by farming and craftsmanship.
Today, and although many of Viscri’s Saxon population emigrated during the end of the communist era (in the late 1980s), traces of their heritage can still be seen throughout the village’s architecture and culture. While a handful of ethnically German inhabitants remain, today Viscri has a largely Roma and Romanian population.
Below are 7 reasons why Viscri is worth visiting.
1. The Fortified Church (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
At the heart of Viscri is its famous 12th-century fortified church, one of the best-preserved Saxon churches in Transylvania.
We visited on a beautifully crisp and sunny autumnal days – as golden leaves surrounded the church and volunteers quietly swept them up.
A large, wonderfully rustic building, we went inside to find a Romanesque chapel: the first, original part of the building. From here, you can climb up to its wooden watch tower to enjoy panoramic views of the pastoral countryside surrounding the village.
In the various outhouses surrounding the church is a small museum – showcasing traditional tools, textiles and artefacts from the village. I found this part of the church absolutely fascinating – it’s an incredibly ‘hands on’ place, giving you the chance to look at the toys, tools and mementos of Viscri residents of yesteryear.
Quiet, sturdy, and beautifully aged, the Viscri church is well worth a visit and a fantastic example of preserved Romanian rural identity.
The church is open 10 am – 1pm and 3 pm- 6 pm daily, costing 15 Lei to enter (around £3).
2. Explore Viscri’s Traditional Saxon Houses
If you’re wondering if Viscri is worth visiting – look no further than its incredible Saxon homes.
The village is lined by two rows of pastel-coloured Saxon homes, that have hardly changed over the centuries. These homes are a defining feature of the village and a big part of what makes it feel so authentic (and one reason why King Charles III fell in love with the place).
Built by Transylvanian Saxons – the German-speaking population invited to the region in the 12th century – the houses all follow a distinct and practical architectural style. They’re very long and narrow, with high arched gateways and steeply sloping roofs.
Inside each pretty gate you’ll find shaded courtyards, leading to a ramshackle collection of barns, stables and gardens. This is because these homes were also self-contained farmsteads, with each owner tending to their own livestock and crops.
What blew me away is just how many of these houses have been carefully preserved or lovingly restored. Rather than modernising them, many locals have decided to keep them as is – even if it’s meant forgoing some modern luxuries.
3. Prince Charles’ House
I’ll be honest, the main reason we visited Viscri was because we wanted to see King Charles’ III Romanian home (now operated by his Foundation).
Hidden among Viscri’s pastoral streets, and only identifiable by a subtle royal crest that sits above its archway, King Charles III’s traditional Saxon guesthouse is a (truly) wonderful place to visit. Not a palace – and not filled with trophies or jewels – this quiet guesthouse is filled with local heritage and craftsmanship, including a resident cat who quietly prowls around.
Originally acquired by Charles in 2006 and restored by his Foundation, the house is both a guesthouse and an information centre – providing details of Romanian heritage, culture and art.
We had a lovely wander here – including a big slice of cake and coffee – and really enjoyed exploring parts of the home. It also has a brilliant gift shop, featuring lots of locally made produce and products (a great place for souvenirs).
The house is open to visitors daily, from 10am – 6pm, all year found. We visited on a Thursday afternoon and it was incredibly quiet – in fact, we were the only visitors.
4. Enjoy a Blacksmith Workshops & Local Crafts
Viscri keeps its history alive not just through its centuries-old Saxon homes, but through the living traditions and crafts that fill the village. Nearly all are working skills still practiced today and are open to visitors who want to observe, learn or even try them for themselves.
The Blacksmith at No. 228
One of Viscri’s most popular (and most photographed) artisans is István the Blacksmith, whose forge is located in his home at number 228. A bit of a local celebrity, István welcomes guests into his workshop to watch him skilfully work the ‘anvi’ – shaping horseshoes, wrought iron hinges, tools and even copper cauldrons.
The forge is dimly lit and full of the scent of fire and metal – quite simply a brilliant place to visit.
Wool Socks, Mittens and Slippers
Strangely – and wonderfully – socks are one of Viscri’s most famous exports. But these aren’t just any socks. They’re hand-knitted, thick wool socks, made by local women using techniques passed down through generations.
What began as a humble barter system – knitting in exchange for food or household essentials- has grown into a thriving community project involving over 100 women from Viscri and nearby villages. Today, they produce a range of handmade goods: socks, slippers, mittens, jumpers, hats and scarves, all using locally sourced Transylvanian wool.
You can find these items at the Artizan Shop, just across from the fortified church. It’s a great place to buy practical, beautiful souvenirs that are genuinely rooted in local life.
Each purchase also supports the women who make them, which is a great feeling.
Ceramics at Viscri Ceramics
For a village of just over 400 people, Viscri is bursting with creative talent. One great place is Viscri Ceramics, run by the husband-and-wife team Alexu and Mara, who have transformed one of the village’s most beautiful buildings – the blue and white barn – into a pottery studio and guesthouse.
Their handcrafted ceramics include mugs, plates and serving bowls, all made on-site and inspired by the Transylvanian landscape. Alongside this, the couple also offer pottery retreats (for anyone wanting to stay in Viscri longer).
Their pottery retreat includes:
- A two-night stay in a restored Saxon home
- Slow-cooked meals served in the barn
- A full introductory ceramics course
- Plenty of time to relax between classes
They also run a seasonal ‘Slow Village Days’ experience, which include:
- Accommodation and meals
- Guided countryside walks
- A gin and tonic tasting
- A candlelit dinner
- Plenty of Transylvanian cheeses
More Local Crafts and Daily Life
Beyond these opportunities, Viscri’s craft culture extends into everyday life. As you explore the village, you’ll come across beekeepers, jam makers, jewellery makers and woodworkers.
5. Enjoy Viscri’s Countryside
Getting out and enjoying the countryside that surrounds Viscri is a must.
The gently rolling hills that surround Viscri are a real dream for nature lovers and hikers. Whether you’re heading out for a short walk or a half-day adventure, there is plenty to do in and around Viscri.
If you’re a bird watcher, then you’ll be even happier – as the area is full of beautiful songbirds, and the fields are said to be some of the most biodiverse in Europe.
There are plenty of walking routes around Viscri.
From Viscri 125 (guesthouse), you can follow trails that range from 30 minutes to 3 hours. Map can be found in the barn at the guesthouse that you can help yourselves to, which show a few of these routes.
For longer hikes, try the Viscri – Mesendorf Saxon Trail, which is around 8 miles. Walk from Viscri to the village of Mesendorf, crossing flower-filled meadows, rolling hills and traditional farmsteads.
The route crosses some gorgeous rural landscapes and Saxon heritage insights.
If you want to take some longer hikes – moving from village to village – then take advantage of the Via Transilvanica trail, specifically the Terra Borza Teutonica segment. Along this route, you can walk from Viscri to gorgeous places such as Bunesti, Since, Bran and Rasnov.
6. Dine in a Tiny, but Top Notch, Restaurant
Viscri might be a small village, but it punches far above its weight when it comes to food. Indeed, if you’re wondering if there is anywhere to eat in Viscri, then you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
With no chain restaurants or tourist traps in sight, everything you eat here is local, seasonal and made in a nearby kitchen.
Here are the best places to eat in Viscri:
Viscri 32
Found inside a restored Saxon barn, Viscri 32 has become something of a culinary hub in the village. The menu focuses on traditional Transylvanian dishes prepared with a modern ‘slow food’ twist. Everything, from the bread to the pickles, is made on site or sourced from local farms. Furthermore, the setting – wooden beams, wildflowers and candlelight – is super homely.
You can dine indoors or on the terrace, with a view of fruit trees.
Viscri 38
Just a few doors down, Viscri 38 was set up to showcase regional cooking and support small-scale producers. Think rustic stews, simple soups and hearty vegetarian dishes. It’s more of a culinary experience than a restaurant, and a great way to learn what ‘real’ Romanian food tastes like.
Il Gufo Reale
If you’ve had your fill of Romanian food, Il Gufo Reale offers a slice of Italy in the heart of rural Romania. This cosy little spot serves homemade pizza and pasta, often using local cheese and garden-grown herbs.
Coffee and Cake:
Viscri Caffe and Café Artizanat are two lovely places for a cup of coffee and slice of cake. Expect homemade cakes, elderflower syrup and shelves lined with local crafts.
7. Visit Nearby Rupea Fortress
Viscri is close to some other great sights in central Romania, including the nearby Rupea Fortress.
Perched on a volcanic peak above the town of Rupea, the fortress looks like something straight out of a medieval story. It winds up the hillside, boasting red-tiled towers and sweeping views over the Transylvanian countryside.
The fortress dates back to at least the 14th century. Over the centuries, it’s served as a defensive stronghold, a refuge for villagers and a storage depot. It was abandoned and fell into ruin during the 20th century, but a major restoration project brought it back to life in the 2010s. Today, it’s one of the best-preserved and most photogenic fortresses in Romania (and much less crowded than Bran).
Rupea Fortress is about 25 minutes away by car. The Fortress is open in the summer daily, from 9 – 7pm, but do check opening times during the winter – when it runs to shorter hours.
Is Viscri Worth Visiting? Final Thoughts
So, is Viscri worth visiting?
Absolutely – and not just because of King Charles III’s lovely home.
Instead, what makes Viscri truly special is the way it captures a slower Romania – one filled with lumbering carts, church bells and the scent of wood smoke.
It was easily one of my favourite places on our road trip through Transylvania.
Wander its lovely cobbled streets and you’ll find yourself in a working village and not an overcrowded tourist destination. You can stay in a beautifully restored Saxon guesthouse, sip homemade plum brandy in someone’s garden, or simply chat with locals selling socks knitted by hand.
It’s peaceful and authentic – not something every royal village can lay claim to.
Viscri is also a place for a fantastic meal, in any number of its guest houses, where Transylvanian stews are served and candles flicker. And for those craving fresh air, the surrounding hills and meadows offer unspoiled hiking, biking and birdwatching opportunities.
In short, Viscri isn’t just worth visiting—it’s a rare chance to step into a more grounded and authentic version of Romania.
One I would love to return to.