ROMANIA
TRAVEL GUIDE
Discover the beauty of Romania with this comprehensive travel guide, featuring everything from medieval castles to scenic landscapes and vibrant cities. Whether you’re exploring the rich culture of Bucharest, discovering the enchanting villages of Transylvania, or delving into Romania’s folklore, this guide offers essential tips and recommendations for an unforgettable journey. Prepare for adventure, history, and stunning vistas at every turn!
Romania Itineraries
Need to Know
Why Travel to Romania
Tip: Romania offers medieval castles, vibrant cities, and stunning Carpathian landscapes.
Why: From Bucharest’s bustling energy to Transylvania’s Dracula lore, Romania blends rich history, folklore, and natural beauty.
How: Explore castles and museums (RON 10–50, $2–10), enjoy local cuisine (RON 10–30, $2–6), and book tours via Viator (RON 50–150, $10–30) for guided experiences.
Do I Need a Visa
Tip: EU, US, and many nationalities get 90-day visa-free entry. Others may need a visa (RON 300–400, $60–80). Check requirements in advance.
Why: Ensures smooth entry and compliance with immigration rules.
How: Check via Romanian embassy websites ($0). Carry digital passport copies on Google Drive ($0). Have proof of accommodation ready.
What is the Currency of Romania
Tip: The currency is Romanian Leu (RON). Budget travelers spend RON 150–300/day ($30–60).
Why: Leu is used for most transactions; cards are accepted in cities but cash is key in rural areas.
How: Exchange at banks ($0) or use ATMs (RON 5–15 fee, $1–3). Carry small Leu notes (RON 5–20). Use Revolut ($0 fees) for better rates.
Is Romania Cheap to Visit
Tip: Romania is affordable, with meals (RON 10–30, $2–6), hostels (RON 50–150/night, $10–30), and transport (RON 5–20, $1–4) at low costs.
Why: Budget-friendly options suit backpackers and cultural explorers.
How: Stay in hostels (RON 50–150). Eat at local carciumă (RON 10–20). Book via Booking.com ($0) for deals.
Can I Drink the Tap Water
Tip: Tap water is safe in Bucharest and major cities but use bottled water in rural areas (RON 2–5, $0.50–1).
Why: Rural water quality varies, and bottled water avoids health risks.
How: Buy bottled water from shops (RON 2–5). Use reusable bottles with filters ($10–20) in rural areas. Check seals on bottles.
Can I Buy a SIM Card
Tip: Purchase a local SIM card for data and calls (RON 25–75, $5–15).
Why: Affordable data plans ensure connectivity for navigation and communication.
How: Buy SIMs at airports or shops (RON 25–75). Top up via mobile apps ($0). Choose providers like Orange or Vodafone.
Enchanting Romania Travel Guide: Your Gateway to Unforgettable Adventures
Welcome to the Enchanting Romania Travel Guide, your essential companion for exploring a European treasure. Romania captivates with its medieval castles, vibrant cities, and Carpathian landscapes, from Bucharest’s dynamic streets to Sighișoara’s fairy-tale charm. This guide covers eight top destinations, cultural experiences, and practical tips to ensure a seamless and unforgettable journey. Whether you’re exploring Bran Castle or driving the Transfăgărășan, let this guide inspire your Romanian adventure.
How to Get to Romania
Travel Options
Tip: Fly into Bucharest (OTP) ($500–1200 from North America, $50–150 from Europe). Trains connect from Hungary or Bulgaria ($15–40).
Why: Bucharest is the main gateway with good rail connections to Central Europe.
How: Compare flights on Skyscanner ($0). Take trains from Budapest ($15–30) or Sofia ($10–25). Use buses (RON 10–50, $2–10) or trains (RON 20–70, $4–15) within Romania.
Best Time to Visit Romania
Optimal Seasons
Tip: Visit in spring (April–June) or autumn (September–October) for mild weather (15–25°C). Summer (July–August) is warm (25–30°C), ideal for the coast. Winter (December–February) suits skiing (0–10°C).
Why: Spring and autumn offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds; summer is best for Black Sea beaches.
How: Book accommodations early for summer (RON 50–200/night, $10–40). Pack versatile clothing and sunscreen. Check forecasts via Meteo.ro ($0).
Top Destinations in Romania
Bucharest
Tip: Visit the Palace of the Parliament (RON 40–60, $8–12), explore Old Town ($0), and stroll Herăstrău Park ($0). Try sarmale (RON 10–20, $2–4) or join a city tour (RON 50–100, $10–20).
Why: Bucharest, Romania’s vibrant capital, blends grand architecture with lively nightlife. The massive Palace of the Parliament and charming Old Town offer a mix of history, culture, and modern energy.
How: Use Bucharest’s metro or buses (RON 3–5, $0.60–1). Book palace tickets online ($0 fees) or tours via Viator (RON 50–100, $10–20). Wear comfortable shoes for walking and visit in spring for blooming parks.
Brașov
Tip: Visit Bran Castle (RON 40–50, $8–10), explore Piața Sfatului ($0), and hike Tâmpa Mountain ($0). Try mici (RON 10–15, $2–3) or join a castle tour (RON 50–100, $10–20).
Why: Brașov, a Transylvanian gem, is surrounded by Carpathian peaks and steeped in Dracula lore. Bran Castle and the charming Piața Sfatului offer a blend of medieval history and scenic beauty.
How: Take trains from Bucharest (RON 20–50, $4–10, 2.5 hours). Stay in guesthouses (RON 50–150, $10–30/night). Book tours via GetYourGuide (RON 50–100, $10–20), wear hiking boots for Tâmpa, and visit in autumn for colorful forests.
Sibiu
Tip: Visit the Passage of the Stairs ($0), explore Brukenthal Museum (RON 20, $4), and stroll Piața Mare ($0). Try ciorbă (RON 10–15, $2–3) or join a city tour (RON 50–100, $10–20).
Why: Sibiu, a former European Capital of Culture, boasts a well-preserved medieval center. The Passage of the Stairs and Brukenthal Museum highlight its Saxon heritage, while Piața Mare buzzes with charm.
How: Take buses from Brașov (RON 20–30, $4–6, 2 hours). Stay in hotels (RON 50–150, $10–30/night). Book tours via Klook (RON 50–100, $10–20), try papanasi (RON 5–10, $1–2), and visit in summer for festivals.
Cluj-Napoca
Tip: Visit St. Michael’s Church ($0), explore Central Park ($0), and see the Botanical Garden (RON 10, $2). Try langoș (RON 5–10, $1–2) or join a city tour (RON 50–100, $10–20).
Why: Cluj-Napoca, Transylvania’s cultural hub, blends historic charm with a youthful vibe. St. Michael’s Church and the lively student scene offer a dynamic mix of history and modern energy.
How: Take trains from Bucharest (RON 50–100, $10–20, 6 hours). Stay in guesthouses (RON 50–150, $10–30/night). Book tours via Viator (RON 50–100, $10–20), wear comfortable shoes, and visit in summer for Untold Festival.
Timișoara
Tip: Visit Union Square ($0), explore the Timișoara Art Museum (RON 10, $2), and stroll Victory Square ($0). Try tochitură (RON 10–20, $2–4) or join a city tour (RON 50–100, $10–20).
Why: Timișoara, known as “Little Vienna,” is a cultural gem with elegant squares and a revolutionary past. Union Square’s colorful architecture and the 1989 uprising history add depth to this Banat region city.
How: Take trains from Bucharest (RON 50–100, $10–20, 8 hours). Stay in hotels (RON 50–150, $10–30/night). Book tours via GetYourGuide (RON 50–100, $10–20), try local wine (RON 5–10, $1–2), and visit in spring for cultural events.
Sighișoara
Tip: Visit the Clock Tower (RON 15, $3), explore the Citadel ($0), and see the Dracula House ($0). Try mămăligă (RON 5–10, $1–2) or join a medieval tour (RON 50–100, $10–20).
Why: Sighișoara, a UNESCO-listed medieval town, is a fairy-tale destination with colorful houses and Dracula’s birthplace. The Clock Tower and Citadel offer a glimpse into Transylvania’s Saxon past.
How: Take buses from Brașov (RON 15–25, $3–5, 2 hours). Stay in guesthouses (RON 50–150, $10–30/night). Book tours via Klook (RON 50–100, $10–20), wear comfortable shoes for cobblestones, and visit in summer for medieval festivals.
Constanța
Tip: Visit Mamaia Beach ($0), explore the Roman Mosaic (RON 10, $2), and stroll the Casino ($0). Try saramură fish (RON 10–20, $2–4) or join a Black Sea tour (RON 50–100, $10–20).
Why: Constanța, Romania’s Black Sea hub, offers sandy beaches and ancient history. The Roman Mosaic and iconic Casino blend maritime charm with a vibrant coastal vibe.
How: Take trains from Bucharest (RON 30–60, $6–12, 2 hours). Stay in hotels (RON 50–150, $10–30/night). Book tours via Viator (RON 50–100, $10–20), pack sunscreen for beach days, and visit in summer for coastal vibes.
Transfăgărășan
Tip: Drive the Transfăgărășan Highway ($0), visit Bâlea Lake ($0), and explore Poenari Castle (RON 10, $2). Try cozonac (RON 5–10, $1–2) or join a guided tour (RON 50–150, $10–30).
Why: The Transfăgărășan, one of the world’s most scenic roads, winds through the Carpathians with stunning views. Bâlea Lake and Poenari Castle, linked to Vlad the Impaler, add adventure and history.
How: Take buses from Sibiu (RON 10–20, $2–4, 2 hours). Stay in chalets (RON 50–150, $10–30/night). Book tours via GetYourGuide (RON 50–150, $10–30), bring a jacket for high altitudes, and visit in summer when the road is open.
Cultural Experiences and Tips
Romanian Cuisine
Tip: Try sarmale (RON 10–20, $2–4), ciorbă (RON 10–15, $2–3), or mămăligă (RON 5–10, $1–2) at local carciumă. Sip țuică (RON 5–10, $1–2).
Why: Romania’s hearty cuisine blends Balkan, Ottoman, and Central European flavors with rich stews and polenta dishes.
How: Dine at Bucharest’s Old Town carciumă or Brașov’s local restaurants. Book cooking classes via Viator (RON 75–150, $15–30). Pair with local wine (RON 5–10, $1–2).
Cultural Festivals and Crafts
Tip: Attend the Sighișoara Medieval Festival (July, RON 0–50, $0–10) or visit painted egg workshops in Bucovina (RON 25–50, $5–10).
Why: Festivals and crafts showcase Romania’s vibrant folklore and Orthodox traditions.
How: Check schedules on RomaniaTourism.com ($0). Book cultural tours via GetYourGuide (RON 50–100, $10–20). Bargain respectfully at markets.
Music and Dance
Tip: Enjoy hora dances at festivals (RON 0–25, $0–5) or folk music in Cluj-Napoca (RON 25–50, $5–10).
Why: Romania’s music and dance reflect its lively Balkan and Transylvanian heritage.
How: Book tickets via Eventim.ro ($0). Visit venues like Bucharest’s Sala Palatului. Dress casually for folk events.
Practical Tips for Traveling in Romania
Visa and Documentation
Tip: Ensure your passport is valid for 6 months. Many nationalities get 90-day visa-free entry; others need a visa (RON 300–400, $60–80).
Why: Simplifies entry and ensures compliance with immigration rules.
How: Check via Romanian embassy websites ($0). Carry digital copies on Google Drive ($0). Have proof of accommodation ready.
Currency and Payments
Tip: Use Romanian Leu (RON 150–300/day, $30–60). Cards are accepted in cities; cash is needed for rural areas and markets.
Why: Small carciumă and rural vendors often require cash payments.
How: Use ATMs in Bucharest (RON 5–15 fee, $1–3). Carry small Leu notes (RON 5–20). Use Revolut ($0 fees) for better rates.
Language and Communication
Tip: Learn phrases like “bună” (hello) or “mulțumesc” (thank you). English is common in tourist areas but limited elsewhere.
Why: Basic Romanian enhances interactions and shows respect.
How: Use Google Translate ($0) for offline use. Purchase a local SIM card (RON 25–75, $5–15) for data.
Safety and Dangers in Romania
Tip: Romania is safe, but beware of pickpocketing in Bucharest’s Old Town or crowded trains. Be cautious hiking in the Carpathians.
Why: Low crime rates, but tourist areas and trails require vigilance.
How: Use a money belt ($10–20). Check travel advisories (US State Department, $0). Drink bottled water in rural areas (RON 2–5, $0.50–1).
More Safety Tips for EuropeAccommodation Options
Tip: Choose hotels in Bucharest (RON 100–300, $20–60/night), hostels in Cluj-Napoca (RON 50–150, $10–30/night), or guesthouses in Brașov (RON 50–150, $10–30/night).
Why: Diverse options suit budgets, from urban hotels to rural guesthouses.
How: Book via Booking.com or Airbnb ($0). Opt for central or scenic locations. Check reviews for authenticity.
Transportation
Tip: Use trains (RON 20–70, $4–15), buses (RON 10–50, $2–10), or rent cars (RON 100–200/day, $20–40). Walking is viable in city centers.
Why: Affordable transport options suit both urban and rural exploration.
How: Book trains via CFR Calatori ($0). Use FlixBus for buses ($0) or rent cars via Rentalcars.com ($0). Carry small cash for fares.
Why This Romania Travel Guide is Essential
Your Gateway to Unforgettable Adventures
Tip: Use this guide to explore Romania’s cultural treasures, stay safe, and immerse in local traditions.
Why: Romania’s blend of history, folklore, and landscapes requires informed planning.
How: Follow tips for Bucharest, Brașov, and more. Enjoy sarmale (RON 10–20, $2–4) and folk performances (RON 0–25, $0–5). Use apps like CFR Calatori ($0) for seamless travel.
