In short
- Adult tickets cost 30 RON.
- Students and seniors pay 20 RON.
- Buy passes at the trailhead kiosk using cash.
In this article
Poenari Citadel requires a paid ticket to access the mountaintop ruins and the 1,480-step staircase. You buy these passes in person at the ground-level kiosk. Keep cash on hand to pay the fee and purchase water before starting your 30 to 45-minute hike.
How much is the entrance fee for Poenari Citadel?
The standard adult ticket costs 30 RON.
Students and seniors receive a discounted rate. They pay 20 RON to enter. You pay this fee directly at the site before climbing.
Where do I buy Poenari Castle tickets?
You purchase your passes at the ticket kiosk at the base of the stairs.
The kiosk sits right at the trailhead. You must pay before beginning the steep ascent. Staff will verify your ticket before you enter the forest staircase.
How do I pay for my tickets?
You need cash in Romanian Leu (RON) to pay the entrance fee.
Bring enough physical cash for your tickets and extra for bottled water. Small roadside vendors near the base also only take cash.
Does the ticket include a guided tour?
No, the 30 RON ticket covers basic entry to the site.
There are information boards at the base detailing the history. If you want a guide, you must book a guided day trip. Tours usually depart from Bucharest or Brașov.
What do Poenari Castle tickets and prices cover?
Your ticket grants access to the 1,480-step staircase and the mountaintop ruins.
At the top, you can explore the Northern Tower and the southern walls. You also gain access to the observation deck. This area overlooks the Argeș River valley.
When can I visit the citadel?
The site operates from late April to late October.
Heavy snow makes the steep concrete steps dangerous in late autumn and winter. The fortress closes during these months. A recent restoration reopened the site in April 2025.
Questions travellers ask
Is there an extra charge to use the bathroom?
Facilities are only available at the ticket kiosk at the base. Make sure you use the restroom and buy water here before starting the climb.
Do I need to buy a separate ticket for a drone?
You cannot fly a drone without prior permission. You must request this from the Argeș County Museum, which administers the site.
Can I buy Poenari Castle tickets online?
No, you pay the entrance fee at the ticket kiosk at the base of the stairs. Bring cash in Romanian Leu (RON).
