Romania

Romania: general info for travelers

Romania is a beautiful country located in Southeast Europe, bordered by Ukraine to the north, Moldova to the northeast, Hungary to the west, Serbia to the southwest, and Bulgaria to the south. The country has a diverse landscape ranging from the forested peaks of the Carpathian Mountains to the rolling hills of Transylvania and the plains of Wallachia and Moldova. Romania is known for its fascinating culture, delicious cuisine, rich history, and charming medieval villages, as well as its beautiful countryside and outdoor recreation opportunities. It is also home to stunning castles, including the famous Dracula Castle, and vibrant cities like the capital Bucharest, Timisoara, Cluj-Napoca, and Brasov.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Romania, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Romania: places to visit

Sure, here are some of the top places to visit in Romania and a brief description about each: 1. Bucharest - The capital city of Romania is a mix of old world charm and modernity. Bucharest is known for its grand architecture, parks, and museums. Some popular attractions include the Palace of the Parliament, Cotroceni Palace, and the Village Museum.
2. Cluj-Napoca - this vibrant university city boasts a charming Old Town and is home to numerous museums, galleries, and theaters. The city is also a great base for exploring the nearby Apuseni Mountains.
3. Brasov - Located in the Carpathian Mountains, Brasov is a popular winter sports destination. The city is also home to the Black Church, a Gothic-style church dating back to the 14th century.
4. Sighisoara - This medieval city, also known as the birthplace of Dracula (Vlad Tepes), is known for its fortified walls, towers, and cobbled streets. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see attraction in Romania.
5. Sibiu - Another medieval city, Sibiu is known for its well-preserved Old Town and cultural landmarks like the Evangelical Cathedral, Brukenthal National Museum, and the ASTRA Museum of Traditional Folk Civilization.
6. Danube Delta - This is the second largest river delta in Europe and is a UNESCO world heritage site. It’s a unique wetland ecosystem and boasts many species of flora and fauna.
7. Peles Castle - Located in the Carpathian Mountains, Peles Castle is a popular tourist attraction known for its grandeur and architecture. It was built in the late 19th century and was the summer residence of the Royal Family.
These are just a few of the top places to visit in Romania. Each place is unique and offers something different, ranging from history, architecture, culture, and natural beauty.
There is more to see and do in Romania: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Romania: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Romania, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Romania has four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Spring (March to May) is generally mild with occasional showers. The temperatures are pleasant, and the countryside is covered with colorful flowers.
Summer (June to August) is the peak tourist season in Romania. The weather is hot and sunny, with temperatures averaging between 25-30°C. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, including hiking and swimming.
Autumn (September to November) is a beautiful season to visit Romania. The foliage is spectacular, and the weather is still pleasant, with cool breezes and temperatures ranging from 10-20°C. Winter (December to February) can be cold, with temperatures ranging between 0-10°C. The mountains are covered with snow, making it an ideal time for winter sports enthusiasts.
The best time to visit Romania depends on your interests and what you want to do there. If you want to enjoy outdoor activities, summer and autumn are the best seasons. If you want to experience winter sports, then winter is the best time to go.

Romania: activities and what to do

Romania offers a wide range of activities and sports for tourists to enjoy on their holidays. Here are some popular ones: 1. Hiking - Romania's Carpathian Mountains offer stunning landscapes and challenging hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts.
2. Skiing - During the winter months, visitors can hit the slopes at popular ski resorts like Poiana Brasov and Sinaia.
3. Water sports - Romania's Black Sea coast offers a variety of water sports such as surfing, kiteboarding, and water skiing.
4. Cycling - There are numerous bike trails across Romania, including Transfagarasan Highway, which is considered one of the best scenic roads in the world.
5. Horse riding - Visitors can explore Romania's beautiful countryside on horseback and experience traditional rural life.
6. Wine tasting - Romania is known for its rich wine culture, and many vineyards offer wine tastings and tours.
7. Cultural activities - Romania has a rich history and visitors can explore its many castles, museums, and historic sites.
8. Spa and wellness - Romania has a long tradition of spa and wellness tourism, and visitors can indulge in relaxation treatments at some of the country's top spas.

Romania: few words on history and culture

Romania has a rich and complex history, shaped by its geography and the various people who have inhabited it over the centuries. The country was once part of the Roman Empire, and traces of that period can still be seen in the country today, particularly in the region of Transylvania. During the Middle Ages, Romania was split into several small principalities, including Wallachia, Moldavia, and Transylvania.
In the 19th century, Romania gained independence from the Ottoman Empire and went through a period of modernization and industrialization. During World War II, Romania was initially allied with Germany, but later switched sides and joined the Allies.
Romania has a rich and diverse culture, influenced by various historical periods and the many ethnic groups who have lived in the country over time. The country is known for its traditional folk music, dance, and cuisine, and has produced many notable writers, artists, and musicians over the years. Romanian culture is also known for its unique blend of Western and Eastern European influences, reflecting the country's position at the crossroads of these two regions.

Romania: how to move around on holiday

There are several means of transportation to reach and visit Romania. Here are some options: 1. By plane: Romania's major airports are Bucharest (Henri Coanda International Airport) and Cluj-Napoca (Avram Iancu International Airport). Both airports offer a large number of international and domestic flights.
2. By train: Romania has a well-developed rail network and traveling by train can be a comfortable and affordable option. Some popular routes include Bucharest-Brasov and Cluj-Napoca-Sighisoara.
3. By bus: Bus travel is also a common means of transport in Romania, especially for shorter distances or rural areas that may not be accessible by train. There are several bus companies operating in the country.
4. By car: Renting a car can be a convenient way to explore Romania, especially if you plan to visit several destinations. However, it's important to note that roads in some parts of the country may be poorly maintained.
Overall, the best option depends on your budget, travel plans, and personal preference. To hire a car to visit Romania, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Romania: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Romania with a full stomach:D
Here are some typical foods of Romania: 1. Sarmale - These are cabbage rolls stuffed with a mixture of pork, beef, rice, and spices. They are usually served with sour cream and polenta.
2. Mici - These are grilled minced meat rolls made with a combination of beef, lamb, and pork, and seasoned with garlic and various spices. They are often served with mustard, bread, and a cold beer.
3. Mămăligă - This is a type of polenta made from yellow corn flour, water, and salt. It is often served with cheese, sour cream, and meat dishes.
4. Ciorbă - This is a traditional sour soup made with vegetables, meat broth, and sour cream. It can be made with various meats such as chicken, beef, or pork, or with vegetables such as cabbage or tomatoes.
5. Papanasi - These are a popular dessert in Romania consisting of fried doughnuts made with cottage cheese and served with sour cream and jam.
6. Salată de Vinete - This is a traditional salad made with roasted eggplant, chopped onions, and mayonnaise or sour cream. It is often served as a side dish with grilled meat.
7. Zacusca - This is a type of vegetable spread made from roasted eggplant, peppers, onions, and tomatoes. It is often served as a snack with bread or crackers.

Romania: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Romania is a relatively affordable destination for tourists compared to many other European countries. Prices vary depending on where you go and what you do, but in general, you can expect to find reasonable prices for accommodation, food, drinks, and attractions. However, prices in popular tourist areas can be slightly higher than in other parts of the country. It's always a good idea to research prices and budget accordingly.

Romania: where to find accodation

There are several websites and platforms where you can look for accommodation in Romania. Some popular options include: 1. Booking.com: This platform offers a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, apartments, and guest houses, in various price ranges.
2. Airbnb: Many homeowners in Romania rent out their homes, apartments, or rooms to travelers through Airbnb. You can find various types of accommodation in different areas of the country.
3. TripAdvisor: This website offers reviews and ratings from other travelers, which can help you choose the perfect accommodation for your needs.
4. Hostelworld: If you're on a budget, you can find affordable hostels in Romania on Hostelworld. This platform offers a range of options, from shared dorm rooms to private rooms.
5. Agoda: Agoda is another platform that offers a broad selection of accommodation options in Romania, including hotels, apartments, and guesthouses.
It's always a good idea to read reviews, compare prices, and check availability before making your final booking.
You can check hotel prices in Romania here:
Booking.com

Romania: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the National Institute of Statistics in Romania, in 2019, Romania received approximately 13.15 million tourists. The country receives the most visitors during the summer months from June to August, and during the winter holidays in December. During these peak seasons, some popular tourist destinations in Romania, such as Brasov and Sinaia, can be crowded. However, there are still many places where you can find tranquility and enjoy Romania's beautiful nature and culture.
Generally, Romania is a safe country for tourists. However, it is always recommended to exercise basic caution and safety measures, just as you would in any foreign country.
In terms of places to avoid, there are certain areas in Bucharest and other cities that are known for petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching. These areas include crowded tourist spots, train stations, and public transportation.
It is also advisable to avoid isolated places at night and to take taxis from reputable taxi companies or use ride-hailing services such as Uber or Taxify.
Overall, as long as you take appropriate safety precautions, you should have a safe and enjoyable trip to Romania.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Romania on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Romania: events for tourists

Romania has many interesting events and festivals throughout the year that can appeal to tourists. Here are some of the most popular and interesting ones: 1. Sibiu International Theatre Festival (Festivalul Internațional de Teatru de la Sibiu) 2. Transylvania International Film Festival (TIFF) 3. Medieval Festival in Sighisoara (Festivalul Medieval Sighisoara) 4. Bucharest International Jazz Competition 5. George Enescu International Festival (Festivalul Internațional George Enescu) 6. Brasov Marathon 7. Romanian Traditional Peasant Fair (Târgul de Fete de la Muntele Gaina) 8. Constellation of Arts Festival in Cluj-Napoca (Festivalul Constelația Artelor) These events showcase Romania's rich cultural heritage, tradition, and artistic expression, and offer wonderful opportunities for tourists to experience the authentic local culture.

Romania: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Romania, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here's a two week travel itinerary for a typical tourist in Romania: Day 1-3: Bucharest - Explore the capital city of Romania - Visit the Palace of the Parliament - Visit the Old Town - Relax at Herastrau Park - Try traditional Romanian cuisine Day 4-5: Brașov - Visit the Black Church - Take a cable car up to Mount Tampa - Walk around the Old Town - Visit Bran Castle (also known as Dracula's Castle) Day 6-7: Sighișoara - Visit the medieval citadel - Explore the Clock Tower Museum - Take a stroll through the narrow alleys Day 8-9: Cluj-Napoca - Walk around the Old Town - Visit St. Michael's Church - Take a tour of the Botanical Garden Day 10-11: Maramureș County - Visit the Merry Cemetery in Săpânța - Visit the Wooden Churches of Maramureș - Visit the Village Museum in Vișeu de Sus Day 12-14: Transfăgărășan Highway - Drive along the famous mountain road - Visit Balea Lake - Hike to the top of Mount Moldoveanu - Visit Vidraru Dam This itinerary is just a suggestion and can be modified based on your personal preferences. Romanian cuisine is also worth trying and it varies a lot among different regions.

Romania: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Romania described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Alba Iulia is a city located in central Romania, which is known for its rich history and cultural significance. It is surrounded by an ancient fortress and is considered an important cultural center o... CONTINUE here for a trip to Alba Iulia
- Baile Felix is a resort town located in the western part of Romania, in the county of Bihor. It is known for its thermal springs and spas, as well as for its beautiful natural surroundings, including ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Baile Felix
- Baile Herculane is a small resort town located in southwestern Romania, near the border with Serbia. It is situated in the valley of the Cerna River, at the foot of the Southern Carpathians. The town ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Baile Herculane
- Baile Olanesti is a picturesque small town located in the southern part of Romania, in Valcea County. It is famous for its thermal water springs and spas, which make it a popular destination for touri... CONTINUE here for a trip to Baile Olanesti
- Baile Tusnad is a small, picturesque town located in the Harghita County of Romania. It is known for its natural hot springs, which have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. The town is sur... CONTINUE here for a trip to Baile Tusnad
- Bailesti is a town located in the southwestern part of Romania, in the county of Dolj. It is situated approximately 180 kilometers away from the capital city of Bucharest and 35 kilometers north of Cr... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bailesti
- Bicaz is a town located in the north-eastern part of Romania, in the county of Neamț. It is situated in the Bicaz Gorges, which is a popular tourist destination due to its beautiful natural scenery, i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bicaz
- Borsa is a small town located in the Maramureș County of Romania. It is situated in the northern part of the country, surrounded by beautiful scenery of the Carpathian Mountains. Borsa is known for it... CONTINUE here for a trip to Borsa
- Bran is a small town located in the region of Transylvania, Romania. It is famous for the Bran Castle, also known as Dracula's Castle, which is a medieval fortress perched on a hill overlooking the to... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bran
- Brasov is a city located in central Romania, in the region of Transylvania. It is surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains and is known for its medieval architecture, influenced by its German roots. The... CONTINUE here for a trip to Brasov
- Bucharest is the capital city of Romania, located in the southern part of the country. It is the largest city in Romania and also the most important cultural, political, and economic center. Bucharest... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bucarest
- Busteni is a mountain resort town located in the Prahova Valley of Romania, in the Bucegi Mountains. It is popular among tourists for its scenic beauty, fresh mountain air, and outdoor activities such... CONTINUE here for a trip to Busteni
- Buzau is a city in southeastern Romania, located at the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains. It is the capital of Buzau County and has a population of approximately 120,000 people. The city is known... CONTINUE here for a trip to Buzau
- Calarasi is a city located in southeastern Romania, on the banks of the Borcea branch of the Danube River. It is the capital of Calarasi County and has a population of approximately 48,000 people. Cal... CONTINUE here for a trip to Calarasi
- Calimanesti is a small town located in the Valcea County of Romania. It is known as a popular spa resort due to its natural mineral springs. The town has several parks, gardens, and recreational areas... CONTINUE here for a trip to Calimanesti
- Cluj-Napoca is a city located in the northwest region of Romania. It is the second largest city in the country, and is known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant nightlife, and dynamic economy. The... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cluj-Napoca
- Constanta is a coastal city located in southeastern Romania, on the shore of the Black Sea. Founded by the Greeks in the 6th century BC, it is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in Europe... CONTINUE here for a trip to Constanta
- Costinesti is a popular seaside resort located on the Black Sea coast in Romania. It is known for its kilometers of sandy beaches, lively nightlife, and affordable prices. The resort has a wide range ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Costinesti
- Covasna is a town located in the central part of Romania, on the eastern side of the Carpathian Mountains. It is situated in the historic region of Transylvania and has a population of around 10,000 p... CONTINUE here for a trip to Covasna
- Eforie Nord is a seaside resort town located on the Black Sea coast of Romania, approximately 12 kilometers south of Constanta. It is known for its sandy beaches, mineral springs, and therapeutic mud ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Eforie Nord
- Gura Humorului is a town located in the northern part of Romania, in the region of Bukovina. It is known for its beautiful scenery and cultural landmarks such as the Voronet Monastery, which is part o... CONTINUE here for a trip to Gura Humorului
- Harghita Bai is a small mountain resort located in the Harghita Mountains of Romania. It's situated at an altitude of 1,400 meters above sea level and is known for its scenic beauty, fresh air, and mi... CONTINUE here for a trip to Harghita Bai
- Iasi is the second largest city in Romania, located in the northeastern part of the country. It has a population of approximately 380,000 people and it is known for its rich cultural and historic heri... CONTINUE here for a trip to Iasi
- Mamaia is a popular seaside resort located on the Black Sea coast in Romania. It is known for its long, sandy beaches, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. The resort area is situated on a narrow stre... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mamaia
- Mangalia is a town and a famous seaside resort located on the Black Sea coast in the south-eastern part of Romania. It is the southernmost town in Romania and the second-largest in Constanta county. M... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mangalia
- Maramures is a historical region in northern Romania, located in the Carpathian Mountains. It is known for its traditional way of life, ancient architecture, and unique customs and traditions. The reg... CONTINUE here for a trip to Maramures
- Miercurea Ciuc, also known as Csíkszereda in Hungarian, is a city located in the Harghita County of Romania. It is situated in the Eastern Carpathian Mountains and is known for its beautiful natural s... CONTINUE here for a trip to Miercurea Ciuc
- Ocna Sibiului is a small town located in the county of Sibiu, in the Transylvania region of Romania. It is situated 13 kilometers east of the city of Sibiu and is known for its salt lakes and spas. It... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ocna Sibiului
- Oradea is a city located in the northwestern part of Romania, near the border with Hungary. It is one of the largest and most important cities in the region, known for its rich cultural and historical... CONTINUE here for a trip to Oradea
- Piatra Neamt is a city located in the northeast region of Romania, near the Carpathian Mountains. It is the capital of Neamt County and has a population of approximately 85,000 people. The city is kno... CONTINUE here for a trip to Piatra Neamt
- Poiana Brasov is a popular ski resort located in the Carpathian Mountains, in Romania. It is located about 12 km away from Brasov, a city in the Transylvania region of Romania. Poiana Brasov has numer... CONTINUE here for a trip to Poiana Brasov
- Praid is a small town located in the heart of Romania, in Harghita County, which is known for its salt mines and thermal spas. It is situated at an altitude of 620 meters above sea level, and it has a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Praid
- Predeal is a charming town located in the central part of Romania, nestled in the Carpathian Mountains at an altitude of 1,030 meters (3,380 feet) above sea level. It is a popular tourist destination,... CONTINUE here for a trip to Predeal
- Ramnicu Valcea is a city located in the central-southern part of Romania, in the historical region of Wallachia. It is situated at the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains and is the capital of Valce... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ramnicu Valcea
- Ranca is a mountain resort located in the Carpathian Mountains of Romania, in the western part of the country. It is known for its beautiful natural scenery, including thick forests, alpine meadows, a... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ranca
- Sacele is a town located in the Brasov county of Romania. Situated at the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains, it has a population of approximately 25,000 people. Sacele is known for its beautiful l... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sacele
- Sfantu Gheorghe (also known as Sfântu Gheorghe) is a town located in the Danube Delta, in Romania. It is situated on the eastern bank of the Danube River, on the Saint George Channel. Sfantu Gheorghe ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sfantu Gheorghe
- Sibiel is a small picturesque village located in the Sibiu county of Romania. It is situated in the heart of Transylvania at the foot of the Cindrel Mountains. The village has a population of around 9... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sibiel
- Sibiu is a city located in the heart of Transylvania, Romania. It has a population of approximately 150,000 people and is one of the country's most important cultural and economic centers. Sibiu is kn... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sibiu
- Sighisoara is a beautiful medieval town located in the heart of Transylvania, Romania. It is known for its well-preserved fortified walls and towers, cobbled streets, and colorful historic houses. The... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sighisoara
- Sinaia is a small town located in the Prahova County of Romania. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful scenery and historical landmarks. Sinaia is particularly famous for its mo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sinaia
- Slanic Moldova is a town located in the Bacau County of Romania. It is a popular tourist destination because of its natural beauty and its sulfuric waters, which are believed to have healing propertie... CONTINUE here for a trip to Slanic Moldova
- Slanic Prahova is a small town located in the Prahova County of Romania, approximately 100 km north of Bucharest, the capital city. The town is known for its salt mines, which are some of the largest ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Slanic Prahova
- Sovata is a resort town located in the Transylvania region of Romania. It is known for its natural saltwater lakes, which are famous for their healing properties. The town has a population of just ove... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sovata
- Suceava is a city located in the northeastern part of Romania, and it is the capital of the Suceava County. The city is known for its medieval history and for being the former capital of the Principal... CONTINUE here for a trip to Suceava
- Targu Jiu is a city located in the Gorj County of Romania. It has a population of approximately 85,000 inhabitants and is situated in the southern part of the country, on the banks of the Jiu River. T... CONTINUE here for a trip to Targu Jiu
- Targu Mures is a city located in central Romania in the historic region of Transylvania. It is the capital of Mures County and has a population of approximately 150,000 people. The city has a rich cul... CONTINUE here for a trip to Targu Mures
- Targu Neamt is a small picturesque town located in northeastern Romania, in the Neamt County. It has a population of around 12,000 people and is known for its beautiful medieval fortress, churches, an... CONTINUE here for a trip to Targu Neamt
- Târnăveni is a city in the northwestern part of Romania located in the Mureș County, Transylvania region. It has a population of around 25,000 people and it is situated on the Târnava Mare River, whic... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tarnaveni
- Tecuci is a city in the eastern part of Romania, located in the region of Moldavia. It has a population of around 43,000 people and is situated on the banks of the Bârlad River. Tecuci is known for it... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tecuci
- Timisoara is a city located in western Romania, near the border with Hungary and Serbia. With a population of over 300,000, it is the third-largest city in the country and a major cultural, economic, ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Timisoara
- Tulcea is a city located in the Dobrudja region of Romania, near the border with Ukraine. It is situated on the banks of the Danube river and is considered the gateway to the Danube Delta, which is a ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tulcea
- Turda is a small city in the Cluj County of Romania, situated in the western part of the country. The city is well-known for its salt mines that have been used since ancient times. Its salt mines are ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Turda
- Vatra Dornei is a small town located in the northern part of Romania, in the region of Bucovina. It is situated in a valley at the foot of the Carpathian Mountains and has a population of around 13,00... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vatra Dornei
- Vulcan is a small town in western Romania, located in Hunedoara County. The town is situated in the foothills of the Poiana Ruscă Mountains and it's known for its beautiful natural scenery. Vulcan has... CONTINUE here for a trip to Vulcan
- Zarnesti is a town located in the central part of Romania, in the Brasov county. It is situated at the entrance to the famous Piatra Craiului National Park, which is known for its breathtaking landsca... CONTINUE here for a trip to Zarnesti


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