Complete Romania Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors
Introduction
Imagine mist-covered castles nestled in emerald forests, medieval towns echoing with legends, and vibrant cities pulsing with modern energy. Romania is a land of contrasts—where the haunting beauty of the Carpathians meets the sunny shores of the Black Sea, and where folklore blends with contemporary charm.
Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or digital nomad chasing affordable adventure, Romania delivers unforgettable experiences. This guide offers an in-depth look at where to go, what to do, and how to travel smartly across this underrated gem of Eastern Europe. Things to do in Romania
Recommended Experiences in Romania
Destination Overview & Neighborhood Breakdown
Romania is located in Southeastern Europe, bordered by the Black Sea, Hungary, Ukraine, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Moldova. The country’s terrain includes rugged mountains, rolling hills, fertile plains, and coastal resorts.
- Bucharest – The capital, buzzing with nightlife, historical contrasts, and edgy art scenes. Ideal for city explorers.
- Brașov – Nestled in the Carpathians, this medieval town is perfect for couples and hikers seeking mountain charm.
- Sibiu & Cluj-Napoca – Great for culture lovers and remote workers who want a balance of modern living and tradition.
- Constanța – Romania’s seaside escape, best for summer beach lovers and families.
- Maramureș – A rural wonderland with wooden churches, living traditions, and slow travel appeal.
- Transylvania – Mythical and majestic. Great for castle hunters, photographers, and heritage tourists.
Top Places to Visit
Bran Castle
Often referred to as “Dracula’s Castle,” this Gothic landmark blends myth and history. Located near Brașov, it’s one of Romania’s top tourist draws.
Peleș Castle
This 19th-century Neo-Renaissance castle in Sinaia boasts ornate interiors and forested surroundings.
Painted Monasteries of Bucovina
UNESCO-listed monasteries known for their vivid, storybook-like exterior frescoes.
Transfăgărășan Highway
A dramatic mountain road famous for its scenic views and hairpin turns—perfect for a summer road trip.
Merry Cemetery, Săpânța
A unique burial site where colorful tombstones feature poems and humorous epitaphs.
Sighișoara
A perfectly preserved medieval citadel and birthplace of Vlad the Impaler.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April–June): Lush green countryside, mild temperatures, and fewer tourists.
- Summer (July–August): Best for beaches and festivals, but prepare for heat and crowds in top spots.
- Autumn (September–October): Ideal for scenic drives, hiking, and photography with fall foliage.
- Winter (December–February): Great for ski resorts and winter charm in mountain villages.
Tip: Book train tickets and popular accommodations early for summer and autumn peak seasons.
Top Things to Do
- Explore Transylvania’s legendary castles
- Hike the Bucegi or Făgăraș Mountains
- Take a Danube Delta boat tour
- Visit thermal spas in Băile Tușnad or Sovata
- Wander through Bucharest’s Old Town
- Tour fortified churches and Saxon villages
Culture & History
Romania’s cultural roots blend Dacian, Roman, and Ottoman influences. The legend of Dracula is based on Vlad the Impaler, whose reputation inspires local folklore and global curiosity. Many villages still maintain traditional crafts and customs, particularly in Maramureș, where horse-drawn carts and wooden gates are everyday sights.
You can witness centuries-old festivals such as “Sânziene,” a Midsummer celebration of love, or “Martisor,” a springtime tradition gifting red-and-white threads for good luck.
Beaches, Nature & Outdoor Experiences
- Mamaia & Vama Veche: Vibrant Black Sea resorts, ideal for beach-goers and party seekers.
- Carpathian Mountains: Hike trails, spot brown bears, or ski in Poiana Brașov.
- Danube Delta: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and birdwatcher’s paradise with over 300 bird species.
Essentials: Pack hiking boots, bug repellent, and binoculars for nature escapes.
Viewpoints & Photo Opportunities
- Poenari Fortress: Perched atop a cliff, accessible by 1,480 steps with epic valley views.
- Babele & Sphinx Rock Formations: Mysterious natural sculptures in the Bucegi Mountains.
- Cluj-Napoca’s Cetățuia Hill: Offers panoramic views over the city, best at sunset.
- Tampa Mountain (Brașov): Reachable via cable car or hike, with cinematic views of the old town below.
Local Food & Drink Guide
Romanian cuisine is hearty and diverse:
- Sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls) – Try at Caru’ cu Bere in Bucharest.
- Ciorbă de burtă (tripe soup) – Popular in traditional restaurants.
- Mămăligă (cornmeal polenta) – Served with sour cream and cheese.
- Papanasi – Fried doughnuts with sour cream and jam.
For drinks, sample Țuică (plum brandy) or explore wine tastings in Dealu Mare or Transylvania.
Getting There & Getting Around
- Airports: Main gateways are Bucharest (OTP), Cluj-Napoca (CLJ), and Timișoara (TSR).
- Trains: A scenic but slow way to travel. Book Intercity or sleeper trains online or at stations.
- Buses & Rideshares: Reliable for intercity routes; use platforms like BlaBlaCar.
- Car Rental: Best for exploring rural regions or mountain routes.
Pro Tip: Download apps like Moovit for transit or Bolt for local taxis and rideshares.
- Biertan Fortified Church: A serene Saxon village with a UNESCO-listed church.
- Apuseni Mountains: Great for caving, waterfalls, and quiet hiking trails.
- Viscri Village: A royal favorite, home to a guesthouse owned by King Charles III.
- Turda Salt Mine: A surreal underground amusement park and wellness center.
Custom Experiences & Safety Tips
- Book private hiking tours in the Făgăraș Mountains or Danube Delta cruises.
- Join folk craft workshops or cooking classes in Transylvania.
- For safety, avoid walking alone in remote areas at night and watch for wild animals in nature reserves.
Health Note: Tap water is generally safe in cities; carry bottled water in rural zones.
Nearby Destinations & Add-On Trips
- Moldova – Easy bus or train ride from Iași; visit wineries and monasteries.
- Bulgaria – Cross the border from Bucharest to explore Veliko Tarnovo or the Black Sea coast.
- Hungary – Cluj-Napoca to Budapest is a scenic journey perfect for rail lovers.
These extensions offer cultural shifts and new landscapes with minimal travel time.
Travel Guide Practical Tips
Romania is a dream for backpackers, photographers, culture seekers, and outdoor enthusiasts. It’s affordable, rich in tradition, and full of genuine hospitality.
Checklist Before You Go:
- Get travel insurance
- Carry some cash (not everywhere accepts cards)
- Learn a few Romanian phrases
- Bring layered clothing for changing weather
For more destination tips, curated travel ideas, and immersive itineraries, visit our homepage and get inspired for your next adventure.
