Founded by Transylvanian Saxons during the 12th century, Sighişoara is a fine example of a small, fortified medieval town. It played an important strategic and commercial role on the fringes of central Europe for several centuries. Now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, the perfectly-intact 16th-century gem boasts cobbled streets, burgher houses, ornate churches and 9 historic towers. Tour the main cultural sites, such as the clock tower, Stag House and the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler. Vlad Tepes (Vlad the Impaler) was the ruler of Walachia from 1456 to 1462. Better known as Vlad Dracula, he was the inspiration for Bram Stoker's fictional Count Dracula. You will also climb the 177 steps of the Covered Staircase to the Church on the Hill.