Cantacuzino Castle in Romania – where Wednesday was filmed

If you are a fan of the Wednesday series, you already know that Nevermore Academy looked truly magical. In reality, it exists – it is Cantacuzino Castle (Castelul Cantacuzino) in the Romanian Carpathians. And believe me, once you visit it, you will understand why the Netflix filming crew chose this very location.

About the Castle

The castle was built in 1911 for Prince Gheorghe Grigore Cantacuzino – a representative of one of the most influential aristocratic families of Romania. From the very beginning, the building stood out: it was not a strict fortress with loopholes, but a true residence designed for luxurious living and hosting guests. Inside, you can admire marble staircases, colorful stained-glass windows, and walls decorated with frescoes and the family’s coat of arms.

The panoramic terraces are especially impressive: from here you get a breathtaking view of the majestic Bucegi Mountains, which make you feel as if you are standing on the border between reality and a fairytale world. Around the castle stretches a large park with fountains, sculptures, and alleys for walking. It’s easy to imagine how Romanian nobility once enjoyed strolling here, and now – tourists and film fans searching for echoes of “Nevermore.”

Filming Location for Wednesday

In 2021, Cantacuzino Castle literally came to life in a new role – it became Nevermore Academy, the main school for misfits and outcasts in the series Wednesday. The Netflix crew didn’t just use it as a backdrop: parts of the interiors were decorated with new sets to create a gothic atmosphere, while the courtyard with the majestic mountains in the background became a key location for many scenes.

Today, visitors to the castle can take a peek “behind the scenes” of the series: an exhibition has been opened here with costumes, props, and photographs from the filming. The halls also feature themed photo zones where everyone can feel like a student of Nevermore.

How to Get There

• By train from Bucharest – the most convenient option for those who don’t want to worry about traffic. Trains towards Brașov depart several times a day, and the journey takes about 2 hours. You should get off at Bușteni station, then either walk (around 20–25 minutes) or take a taxi directly to the castle entrance.
• By car – this is also a popular option: the distance from Bucharest is about 120 km, and the drive takes around 2 hours. However, keep in mind that on weekends and holidays the DN1 road is often congested, so it’s better to leave early in the morning. There is a parking lot near the castle, but during “peak” hours spaces fill up quickly.
• Organized tours – many companies in Bucharest offer day trips “following the footsteps of Wednesday.” These usually include Cantacuzino Castle as well as other locations in Sinaia or Brașov. This is a great option if you want to see everything without extra hassle.

Where to Stay

Bușteni – the most convenient option if you want to stay right next to the castle. This small mountain town offers plenty of apartments and family-run hotels. The atmosphere is calm, and many rooms have windows overlooking the Carpathians. Perfect if you’d like to walk to the castle in the morning without any rush.

• Villa Forrest Bușteni — a villa with a garden, terraces, and mountain views. Free Wi-Fi and parking available, great for a peaceful stay.
• Zefir Apartments Bușteni — apartments with terrace or balcony, private parking, comfortable amenities, a good choice for independent travelers.

Sinaia (10 km) – a more popular resort with a wider range of accommodation: from budget guesthouses to stylish mid-range hotels. There are also many restaurants and cafés, and the highlight of the town is the famous Peleș Castle. If you want to combine two castles in one trip, Sinaia is a great choice.

• Hotel Rina Sinaia – a convenient 3★ hotel in the city center, close to restaurants and shops.
• Ioana Hotel – a modern 5★ hotel in the upper mid-range category, offering excellent service and mountain views.

Brașov (50 km) – a larger and more touristy option. This city boasts a fairy-tale old square, medieval streets, and a wide selection of restaurants and hotels. Staying in Brașov allows you to visit Cantacuzino Castle and also explore one of the most beautiful gems of Transylvania.

• Safrano Palace – budget-friendly yet very atmospheric apartments located right next to the central square.
• Aro Palace Hotel – a 5★ hotel with pool, spa, and classic rooms – a solid choice for a comfortable stay.
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  Tours in the Castle

  At Cantacuzino Castle, several types of tours are available, each with its own highlight:

  • • • Classic Hall Tour – walk through the castle’s main rooms, learn about the Cantacuzino family, and admire stained-glass windows, marble staircases, and early 20th-century interiors.
      • Wednesday Themed Exhibition – a must for fans of the series. Here you’ll find props, costumes, and photos from the filming. There are even recreated interior areas where you can feel like a Nevermore student.
      • Photo Zones – special corners designed for pictures in the style of the series. Perfect if you want to take home “that very shot.”

  Tours usually last about one hour. Guides are available in Romanian, English, and sometimes French.

  Price: a standard adult ticket costs around 50 lei (≈ €10), children’s tickets are about half price. Family tickets are also available.

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  Myths and History

  Unlike Bran Castle, which is tied to the legends of Count Dracula, Cantacuzino Castle has no eerie “vampire” stories. Still, its past is no less fascinating. It was built by Prince Gheorghe Grigore Cantacuzino, a member of one of Romania’s most influential aristocratic families, whose lineage traces back to Byzantine emperors.

  It is said that for many years the castle walls safeguarded family treasures and a unique art collection. During the war and postwar periods, part of these valuables were taken abroad or disappeared without a trace, giving rise to many rumors. Some locals even believe that hidden chambers with family artifacts still exist within the castle.

  Today the castle is known more for its art and cinema than for mysticism. However, after the release of Wednesday, it gained a new image: tourists began calling it the “Adams Family’s new home,” a nickname that quickly became part of its fan lore.

  

  Traveler Tips

• Buy tickets online – this way you save time and secure your slot, especially on weekends.
• Arrive in the morning – the castle opens at 10:00, and the first hours have the fewest visitors. Perfect time for photos without crowds.
• Café and souvenirs – near the castle there is a small café with a terrace and souvenir shops. Here you can find mugs, t-shirts, and magnets with Wednesday symbols.
• Plan travel time – if you drive, consider possible traffic jams on the DN1 road, especially on Friday evenings and Sundays.
• Combine routes – after visiting Cantacuzino, it’s worth stopping at Peleș Castle in Sinaia. It’s completely different in style and impresses even more with its interiors.
• Don’t forget your camera or phone charger – the location is literally made for photos, and you won’t stop at just one shot.
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  Traveler’s Note:
  Cantacuzino Castle in Bușteni became world-famous after the filming of the Wednesday series.
  In reviews, tourists often highlight the picturesque Carpathian views, convenient access from Bucharest, and interesting guided tours.
  We recommend buying tickets online and arriving early to avoid crowds.
  Many travelers also advise combining this visit with a trip to Peleș Castle in Sinaia.