Romania

Nestled in the heart of Eastern Europe, Romania is a country where medieval castles, lush forests, and dramatic mountains meet modern culture and folklore. It borders five countries, with the Carpathian Mountains wrapping around its center and the Danube River marking its southern edge. Romania’s varied geography includes the Black Sea coast, alpine peaks, and rolling hills dotted with fortified churches and timeless villages. Its landscapes have inspired countless legends—most famously the myth of Dracula, which stems from the Transylvanian region.

Romania’s history is a fascinating patchwork of Dacian roots, Roman conquest, Ottoman influence, and Soviet-era legacy. Since the 1989 revolution, the country has embraced democracy and European integration while preserving its unique identity. Romanian towns still echo their Saxon and Austro-Hungarian past, especially in places like Sibiu and Brașov. Whether you’re wandering through Bucharest’s eclectic streets, hiking in Maramureș, or exploring painted monasteries in Bucovina, Romania feels like a bridge between old-world charm and contemporary Europe.

Why Visit Romania?

Castles & Legends: Bran Castle (aka “Dracula’s Castle”), Peleș Castle, and Corvin Castle showcase medieval glory.

Diverse Landscapes: Hike the Carpathian Mountains, wander Transylvanian plains, or sunbathe on the Black Sea coast.

Timeless Villages: Experience life in Saxon villages like Viscri and Romanian peasant traditions in Maramureș.

Rich History: Roman ruins, Byzantine monasteries, Ottoman forts—all in one country.

Affordable European Charm: Explore cities, eat well, and stay comfortably on a modest budget.

Vibrant Capital: Bucharest mixes Belle Époque elegance with communist-era grit and a booming nightlife scene.

Smart Travel: Off-Season Deals & Delights

Key Advantages:

Lowest Prices: Romania offers some of the lowest winter prices in Europe—flights, guesthouses, and even castles come at a bargain.
Fewer Crowds: Explore Dracula’s Castle (Bran), Peleș Castle, and medieval towns like Brașov or Sibiu without the summer rush.
Authentic Local Vibe: Winter unveils a quieter, more traditional Romania, with cozy villages, steaming mulled wine, and warm hospitality.
Winter Sports (excluding peak): Resorts like Poiana Brașov or Sinaia are budget-friendly alternatives to the Alps, especially in early or late winter.
Cozy Atmosphere: Snow-dusted mountains, charming old towns, and rustic inns make Romania a romantic, storybook destination in winter.

Main Drawbacks:

Cold Temperatures: Expect freezing temperatures, especially in Transylvania and the Carpathians, with snow common throughout.
Shorter Days: Daylight is limited, especially in December and January, reducing sightseeing hours.
Limited Outdoor Activities (non-ski): Hiking and rural tourism are more restricted due to weather.
Some closures: Smaller guesthouses and rural attractions may close or operate limited hours in deep winter.

Key Regions:

Brașov & Bran: Picture-perfect under snow, these towns let you explore medieval streets and Dracula lore in peace.
Sibiu: A cultural gem with winter markets, cobblestone streets, and colorful architecture—beautifully quiet in the off-season.
Bucovina (Painted Monasteries): Winter adds an ethereal beauty to this UNESCO-listed region, with snow-laced frescoes and far fewer tourists.
Maramureș: A rural wonderland in winter. Traditional wooden villages, horse-drawn sleighs, and centuries-old customs await.
Poiana Brașov & Sinaia: For skiing or snowboarding without the Alpine price tag, Romania’s ski resorts are a smart alternative—especially outside of February peak weeks.

Key Advantages:

Ideal Weather: Pleasant temperatures for sightseeing and outdoor activities, without the extreme heat of summer.
Manageable Crowds: Tourist numbers are lower than in peak summer, but attractions are fully open and vibrant.
Reasonable Prices: Flights and accommodation are more affordable than in summer, though slightly higher than deep winter.
Festivals & Events: Many vibrant local festivals and cultural events take place, including Easter celebrations in spring and various harvest festivals in autumn.
Blooming Landscapes (Spring) & Autumn Colors (Autumn): Enjoy the natural beauty of Romania’s diverse landscapes.

Main Drawbacks:

Unpredictable Weather (Spring/Autumn): Weather can change rapidly, with potential for cooler days and rain, especially in early spring or late autumn.
Spring Mud Season: Early spring in higher elevations might still be muddy due to snowmelt, and some mountain trails could be inaccessible.

Key Regions:

Transylvania (Brasov, Sibiu, Sighisoara, Cluj-Napoca): The medieval towns are incredibly charming in spring with blossoming flowers or in autumn with vibrant foliage. Ideal for exploring historical sites, hiking in the nearby Carpathian Mountains, and enjoying cafe culture.
Bucharest: The capital city is very pleasant in spring and autumn for exploring its parks, museums, and vibrant urban life without the summer heat or winter chill.
Danube Delta: Spring and autumn are excellent for birdwatching and exploring the unique ecosystem of the Danube Delta, with comfortable temperatures and fewer mosquitoes than summer.
Painted Monasteries of Bucovina: The vibrant frescoes of these UNESCO sites are particularly stunning against the backdrop of spring greenery or autumn colors.
Carpathian Mountains (e.g., Piatra Craiului National Park, Bucegi Mountains): Ideal for hiking and exploring the stunning mountain scenery when trails are clear and temperatures are mild.

Mid-Summer (June-August): This is Romania’s peak tourist season. Prices for flights and accommodation are at their highest, and popular attractions, especially in cities, coastal areas (like the Black Sea coast), and mountain resorts, will be crowded. While the weather is generally warm and sunny, the value for money is significantly lower.

Christmas and New Year Holiday Period: While festive and charming, this period sees a surge in prices and crowds, especially in cities like Bucharest, Brașov, and popular ski destinations.

Peak Ski Season (February-March): Popular ski resorts in the Carpathian Mountains (e.g., Poiana Brașov, Sinaia, Predeal) will be busy and more expensive during this time. If skiing is your primary goal, booking well in advance and considering slightly less popular resorts might help.

Ready To Experience Your Perfect Gateaway?

Essential Trip Information

Visa and Entry Requirements

Travelers from all nationalities should consult the official website of the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for the most up-to-date visa and entry requirements: https://www.mae.ro/en/node/2035
Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond your stay.
Immigration may ask for proof of onward travel, accommodation bookings, and sufficient funds.

Currency

Romania uses the Romanian Leu (RON). Common denominations: Bills: 1–500 RON; Coins: 1–50 bani.

Best Ways to Handle Currency

Before Your Trip: Exchange some cash or withdraw from an ATM upon arrival.
During Your Trip: Use ATMs at major banks (BCR, BRD, ING). Visa/Mastercard are accepted, especially in cities.
Carry US$20–50 worth of RON in small towns or rural areas.
Avoid airport exchange counters and always decline dynamic currency conversion.

Language

Romanian is the official language.
English is widely spoken in tourist areas; French and German are common among older generations.
Helpful phrases: “Bună” (Hello), “Mulțumesc” (Thank you), “Unde este…?” (Where is…?)

Safety & Security

Romania is generally very safe, even for solo travelers.
Petty theft can occur in crowded markets or on public transport.
Avoid poorly lit areas at night in large cities.
Emergency number: 112

Health & Insurance

No vaccines required for entry.
Tap water is safe in cities, but bottled water is common.
Pharmacies (Farmacie) are widely available.
Travel insurance is recommended for healthcare access.

Transportation

Trains: Extensive national network, scenic routes (especially through Transylvania).
Buses/Minibuses: Reliable, especially for towns not served by trains.
Metro: Only in Bucharest, clean and efficient.
Ridesharing: Bolt and Uber operate in major cities.
Car Rental: Good for exploring rural regions like Maramureș or Bucovina.

Price Level

Romania is generally affordable, especially compared to Western European countries, though prices can vary between major cities and rural areas.

Accommodation

Budget: Hostels/guesthouses (US$20–50/night)
Mid-range: 3-star hotels (US$50–100/night)
Luxury: 4-5 star hotels (US$100+/night)

Food

Quick eats: Pastries/street food (US$2–5), local eateries (US$5–10)
Casual dining: US$10–25/person
Fine dining: US$30+/person

Drinks

Beer: US$2–4 (bars), US$1–2 (supermarkets)
Cocktails: US$6–10

Transportation

Public transport (city bus/tram/metro): US$1–2 per ride
Intercity train/bus: US$15–40 for longer journeys
Taxis/Ride-sharing: US$5–15 for short trips in cities

Money-Saving Tips

Eat at local “Canteen-style” restaurants (Impinge la Tava) for affordable, home-cooked meals.
Utilize public transportation within cities and intercity trains/buses for longer distances.
Consider staying in guesthouses (pensiuni) in rural areas for authentic and budget-friendly experiences.

Explore Romania

Planning Your Trip

Best Time To Visit

Romania has a temperate-continental climate with four distinct seasons. Weather and activities vary greatly by region—from medieval towns to mountains and beaches.

Spring (April–June):

Ideal for sightseeing in Transylvania and Bucharest (59–77°F / 15–25°C).
Wildflowers and fewer tourists.

Summer (July–August):

Best for hiking in the Carpathians and Black Sea beaches (75–90°F / 24–32°C).
Festivals and nightlife peak in cities like Cluj-Napoca and Constanța.

Autumn (September–October):

Stunning foliage in Bucovina and Maramureș (50–73°F / 10–23°C).
Harvest festivals and local wine tastings.

Winter (December–February):

Cold (20–36°F / -6–2°C) but perfect for skiing in Poiana Brașov or Christmas markets.
Avoid rural travel after snowstorms due to road conditions.

Bold Recommendation: Visit May–June or September–October for mild weather, fewer crowds, and the best cultural experiences.

Local Customs And Etiquette

Greetings: A firm handshake and eye contact are common; cheek kisses among close friends.
Language: Romanian is official; many speak English in urban areas.
Tipping: 10%–15% in restaurants; small change for taxis and hotel porters.
Dress Code: Casual in most settings, conservative when visiting monasteries (covered shoulders).
Etiquette: Don’t talk politics (especially about Moldova or the EU). Always remove shoes in someone’s home.

Budgeting For Your Trip

Accommodation:

Hostels: US$15–30/night
Mid-range hotels/pensions: US$50–100/night
Luxury hotels: US$150+/night

Food:

Street food/pastries: US$2–5
Casual meal in a restaurant: US$10–20
Mid-range restaurant meal: US$20–40
Fine dining: US$50+

Transport:

Public transport (bus/metro ticket): US$1–2 per ride in cities.
Intercity train/bus: US$10–30 for a longer journey.
Car rental: US$30–70 per day.

Activities:

Museum/castle entry: US$5–15 per person.
Guided tours: US$25–70 per person, depending on duration and type.
Ski pass: US$30–60 per day during winter.

Daily Budget:

Budget: US$50–80 (hostels, street food/supermarket, public transport, free attractions).
Mid-range: US$100–180 (mid-range hotels/pensions, sit-down meals, some paid attractions, occasional taxi/ride-share).
Luxury: US$250+ (luxury hotels, fine dining, private tours, car with driver).

Internet & Mobile

Free Wi-Fi: Widely available in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and public spaces in major cities.
SIM Cards: Easily purchased at airports, mobile phone shops (Orange, Vodafone, Telekom). Prepaid plans offer good value (e.g., US$10–20 for 10-20GB data).
eSIMs: Becoming more widely supported by local providers and international eSIM services like Airalo, offering convenient connectivity.

Travel Insurance

Recommended for: Medical emergencies (especially for activities like hiking or skiing), trip cancellations or delays, and lost luggage.
Healthcare: While Romania has public healthcare, private clinics are recommended for higher standards of care, and travel insurance will cover these costs.
Adventure Activities: If planning activities like hiking in the Carpathians, skiing, or other outdoor adventures, ensure your policy covers these specific activities.

Accomodation Options

Romania offers a range from boutique castles to countryside guesthouses.

Luxury:

Castle stays: Bethlen Estates (Transylvania), Zabola Estate (Covasna).
Urban: The Marmorosch (Bucharest), Kronwell (Brașov).

Mid-range:

Boutique hotels: Casa Luxemburg (Sibiu), Hotel Platinia (Cluj).
Guesthouses in Maramureș or Bucovina: Authentic wooden homes, ~US$60–100/night.

Budget:

Hostels: Podstel (Bucharest), JugendStil (Sibiu) ~US$15–35/night.
Rural pensions: US$25–45, usually with home-cooked meals.

Unique Stays:

Săliște yurts (Carpathians), or ice hotels near Bâlea Lake (winter only).
Eco-villages like Viscri 125 (Prince Charles-endorsed).

Tip: Book early for summer or winter holidays—domestic tourism is booming.

Getting Around

Transport varies by region—rural areas may require more planning.

Trains:

Connect major cities: Bucharest–Brașov, Sibiu–Cluj (scenic and affordable).
Use CFR Călători website for schedules. First class is comfortable (~US$12–30 per trip).
Slower than buses in some regions.

Buses & Minibuses:

Great for rural access (e.g., Maramureș villages).
Cheap (US$5–15), but limited schedules—check Autogari.ro.
Private coaches (e.g., FlixBus) for intercity routes.

Rental Cars:

Best for exploring Transylvania, Bucovina monasteries, or remote villages.
From ~US$30/day; fuel ~US$6.50/gallon. Roads are improving, but be alert in mountain areas.

Taxis & Ride Apps:

Use Bolt or Uber in cities like Bucharest or Cluj (short rides ~US$3–8).
Avoid unmarked taxis—scams are common.

Domestic Flights:

Useful only for longer distances (e.g., Bucharest to Iași or Timișoara, ~US$50–100).

Bold Recommendation: Combine trains for intercity travel with a rental car for regional exploration.

Handy Tips

Romania uses the Romanian Leu (RON). Bills come in 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, 200, and 500 lei denominations; coins include 1, 5, 10, and 50 bani (100 bani = 1 leu).

Exchanging Currency: Avoid airport kiosks—use local ATMs or exchange at banks for better rates.
Using Cards: Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in cities, but keep cash for rural areas, taxis, and local markets.
Tipping Etiquette: Tipping is customary, though often smaller than in the U.S.:
- Restaurants/Bars: 10% (round up if service is good).
- Taxis: Round up or add 5–10%.
- Hotel Staff: US$1–2 per bag for porters; US$2–3/day for housekeeping.
- Tour Guides: US$5–10 per person for full-day tours.

The official language is Romanian, a Romance language related to Italian and Spanish. English is commonly spoken in cities and tourist areas, less so in rural regions.
Helpful phrases:
- “Unde este cea mai apropiată stație de metrou?” (Where’s the nearest Metro station?)
- “Cât costă…?” (How much is…?)
- “Pot primi o chitanță?” (Can I get a receipt?)
  Pro Tip: Romanians are warm and helpful—a polite “Mulțumesc” (Thank you) goes a long way.

Romania is generally safe, especially for tourists. Use standard precautions in crowded markets or public transport.
Avoid poorly lit areas at night in larger cities like Bucharest or Constanța.

Emergency Contacts:

112: All emergencies (police, fire, ambulance).
Your Embassy: Many embassies are located in central Bucharest—save the address and contact info.

Romania uses 230V/50Hz with Type C and F plugs (two round pins).
Visitors from North America will need a voltage converter and plug adapter for some appliances, especially hair dryers or electric razors.

Tap water is safe in most cities and towns, though bottled water is widely consumed and available everywhere.
In rural areas or mountain villages, opt for bottled water.

Most public institutions, banks, and shops close on the following national holidays:

1 Jan: New Year’s Day
24 Jan: Unification Day
Orthodox Easter: Varies (Apr–May, Sunday + Monday)
1 May: Labor Day
1 Jun: Children’s Day
15 Aug: Assumption Day
30 Nov: St. Andrew’s Day
1 Dec: Great Union Day (Romania’s national day—military parades in Bucharest!)
25–26 Dec: Christmas

Shops: 09:00–21:00 (malls may stay open later).
Supermarkets: Open daily, some 24/7 (especially in cities).
Pharmacies: Weekdays 08:00–20:00; some stay open weekends or 24/7 in cities.
Markets: Farmers’ markets in cities (e.g., Obor Market in Bucharest) usually run 07:00–14:00.

Sarmale: Cabbage rolls stuffed with minced pork and rice, served with sour cream and polenta.
Ciorbă de burtă: Creamy tripe soup with vinegar and sour cream—unique and beloved.
Mici: Grilled skinless sausages made of mixed meats, often eaten with mustard and bread.
Ciorbă de perișoare: Sour meatball soup with vegetables and lovage herb.
Zacuscă: Smoky eggplant and pepper spread served on fresh bread.
Tochitură moldovenească: Hearty pork stew with garlic, cheese, and polenta.
Papanasi: Fried or boiled doughnuts topped with sour cream and fruit jam.
Cozonac: Sweet bread filled with nuts, cocoa, or Turkish delight (especially during holidays).
Clătite: Romanian-style crepes filled with chocolate, jam, or cheese.
Kürtőskalács: Transylvanian chimney cake coated in sugar, walnuts, or cinnamon.

Alcoholic:

Țuică: Traditional plum brandy (strong—drink responsibly!).
Palincă: A stronger cousin of țuică, often homemade.
Fetească Neagră: Rich, local red wine grown in Moldova and Muntenia.
Grasă de Cotnari: Aromatic sweet white wine.
Vinars: Romanian brandy, aged and smooth.
Craft Beer: Try local labels like Zăganu, Ground Zero, or Bereta.
Unfiltered Drafts: Available in Transylvanian bars and microbreweries.

Non-Alcoholic:

Borș: Fermented wheat bran liquid used in soups (sometimes served plain).
Sifon: Carbonated water dispensed from retro soda siphons.
Compot: Homemade fruit drink, served cold.
Cico: Classic Romanian soft drink (tangy and fruity).
Mineral Water: Borsec or Perla Harghitei—prized natural springs.

Bucharest’s Old Town: Cobbled streets, eclectic architecture, and hidden courtyards.
The People’s Palace: Second-largest administrative building in the world.
Painted Monasteries of Bucovina: UNESCO sites with vivid medieval frescoes.
Wooden Churches of Maramureș: Tall, narrow Gothic-style churches.
Dacian Fortresses: Ancient ruins in the Orăștie Mountains.
Village Life: Visit Viscri or Biertan for fortified churches and Saxon heritage.
Sibiu: Cultural capital with baroque plazas and art museums.
Iași: Historical university town with the grand Palace of Culture.
Mărțișor Tradition: In March, Romanians exchange red-and-white charms for spring.
Romanian Blouse (“ie”): Traditional embroidered shirts, often handmade and symbolic.

Thermal Spas: Relax at Therme Bucharest—Europe’s largest urban spa complex.
Carpathian Hiking: Explore Bucegi, Făgăraș, or Retezat Mountains.
Castles: Visit Bran Castle (Dracula legend) and Peleș Castle (neo-Renaissance gem).
Black Sea Resorts: Party in Mamaia or chill in Vama Veche.
River Cruises: Danube Delta tours offer wildlife, fishing, and slow adventure.
Folk Festivals: Join traditional events in Maramureș or Sibiu (e.g., Astra Festival).
Opera & Ballet: Book a performance at the Romanian Athenaeum or National Opera House.
Sibiu Christmas Market: Magical lights, mulled wine, local crafts (Nov–Dec).
Cluj Nightlife: Youthful city with cool cafés, underground bars, and music clubs.
Bike Tours: Enjoy countryside trails in Transylvania and rural Moldova.

Control Club (Bucharest): Indie music, cocktails, and expat crowds.
E3 by Entourage (Mamaia): Seaside rooftop club with international DJs.
Gradina Eden (Bucharest): Chill outdoor bar with boho vibes in summer.
Joben Bistro (Cluj): Steampunk-themed bar with mixology magic.
The Urbanist: Trendy Bucharest café-bar with live DJ sets.
Mojo (Bucharest): Multi-level British pub with karaoke and live bands.
Berăria H: Giant beer hall with Romanian food and folk performances.
Trei Bețivi: Dive bar with local craft beer and underground music.
Skybar: Rooftop bar in Dorobanți with city views and curated cocktails.
Hard Rock Cafe Bucharest: Familiar favorites, local rock fans, and river views.