Romania

Travel Info about Romania

Peles Castle – Sinaia

Fun Facts about Romania

• Romania is famous for its medieval castles. Such as the iconic Bran Castle, often associated with the Dracula legend.
• The country also boasts 7 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the stunning Danube Delta and the Churches of Moldavia.
• Romania is known for its vibrant folklore, including colorful festivals and traditional dances.
• The country features the spectacular Transfăgărășan Highway as well, often referred to as one of the most beautiful roads in the world.
• Romania Has the World’s Oldest Recorded Capital City: Dacian Sarmizegetusa is one of the earliest known capitals, dating back to 100 BC.

Romanian Culture

• When you visit Romania, you will find a country that boasts a proud heritage of culture and traditions across the entire country.
• Romanian culture values tradition, art, and family, with a strong emphasis on festivals and community gatherings. You should try to learn some greetings in Romanian. For example, it’s polite to say “Bună ziua” (Good day) when entering shops or restaurants, “Mulțumesc” means thank you, and “La revedere” means goodbye. Also, a polite greeting might include a handshake.
• When you visit, don’t miss the traditional Romanian cuisine. Firstly, trying sarmale (cabbage rolls stuffed with meat and rice) and mămăligă (cornmeal porridge). Then, for a traditional dessert, you can indulge in papanași (sweet cheese dumplings) as well as exploring the country’s delightful array of cheeses and wines.
• Romania is predominantly Eastern Orthodox Christian, so you’ll find beautiful churches and monasteries throughout the country.

Pasajul Victoriei (The Umbrella’s Street), Bucharest

Budgeting in Romania

Travel and Transport

• Getting to Romania is straightforward with several international airports. Henri Coandă International Airport in Bucharest offers frequent flights to and from major European cities.
• Make sure to guarantee yourself the best flight prices with my expert guide here and use the code BLOG to get 25% off the marked price.
• For traveling around the country, Romania’s train system is also extensive and connects major cities and regions. Bucharest’s Metro, tram, and bus systems are efficient for exploring the capital for extremely reasonable prices. Car rentals and ride-sharing services are also readily available.
• Personally, I think the public transport in this area of the world is unbelievable. Despite the transport not being particularly modern, it is reliable and extremely affordable. Also, you can usually get transport cards which allow you to use all means of public transport.

View from Dracula’s Castle, Transylvania

Seasons/ When to Visit

If you visit Romania, you will need to choose your travel dates wisely depending on the experience you desire. Major cities and beach destination in Romania will be busier in the summer months due to the good weather however, the winter months bring the offer of attractive ski resorts in the mountains.

Spring in Romania (March to May)

• Spring is a magical time to explore Romania, as the countryside bursts into bloom and cities come alive with vibrant colours. In March, the first signs of spring can be seen in Transylvania, where cherry blossoms and tulips brighten up gardens and parks. As well as that, by April and May, cities like Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca host various cultural festivals, celebrating music, art, and food. It’s also an excellent season for hiking in the Carpathian Mountains, where trails are adorned with wildflowers. Spring is ideal for visiting historic sites such as Bran Castle and Peles Castle without the summer crowds, allowing for a more intimate experience.

Summer in Romania (June to August)

• Summer in Romania brings warm weather and vibrant festivities. The Black Sea coast becomes a popular destination, with resorts like Mamaia and Constanta attracting sun-seekers for beach parties and water sports. In the mountains, hiking and outdoor adventures flourish, especially in the Retezat National Park and the Fagaras Mountains, which offer stunning views and trails. Major cities buzz with life, featuring numerous outdoor concerts and cultural events, such as the George Enescu Festival in Bucharest. While tourist hotspots can get crowded, the lively atmosphere and numerous summer activities make this an exciting season to visit Romania.

Autumn in Romania (September to November)

• Autumn casts a golden hue across Romania, making it a picturesque time to visit. The harvest season brings local festivals celebrating traditional foods and wines, particularly in regions like Transylvania and Moldavia. The mild weather is perfect for exploring Romania’s historic towns, such as Sibiu and Sighisoara, where cobblestone streets are lined with colourful houses. The Carpathian Mountains showcase breathtaking foliage, ideal for hiking and photography. Autumn is also a great time to visit Dracula-themed attractions, such as Bran Castle, without the summer crowds. Embrace the season by savouring hearty Romanian dishes, such as mămăligă and sarmale.

Winter in Romania (December to February):

• Winter in Romania is enchanting, especially in the mountains, where snow transforms the landscape into a winter wonderland. Ski resorts like Poiana Brașov and Ski Resort Azuga attract winter sports enthusiasts, offering skiing, snowboarding, and cozy lodges. In cities like Bucharest and Brașov, festive markets spring up, featuring local crafts, mulled wine, and delicious seasonal treats. The holiday season is particularly magical, with traditional carol singing and celebrations throughout the country. Visit Peles Castle and Bran Castle for a unique experience as they take on a fairy-tale charm. Winter also allows for intimate visits to museums and art galleries, away from the bustling summer crowds.

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Areas to Stay/Visit in Romania

Romania has a wealth of destinations to explore, depending on your desired experience and the time of year.

Bucharest

• The capital city offers a mix of history and modernity. Stay in the Old Town (Lipscani) for vibrant nightlife and easy access to attractions like the Palace of the Parliament and the Romanian Athenaeum. The Herastrau Park area offers a more relaxed atmosphere with lakes and gardens.

Brașov

• Nestled in the Carpathian Mountains, Brașov is known for its medieval charm. Stay in the historic centre to explore the Black Church and the picturesque Council Square. For stunning views, consider accommodations near Tampa Mountain.

Sibiu

• Famous for its Saxon heritage, Sibiu features beautiful architecture and a vibrant cultural scene. Stay in the Grand Square for proximity to major sights like the Brukenthal Palace and the Bridge of Lies, or choose a cozy guesthouse in the Old Town.

Cluj-Napoca

• As the unofficial capital of Transylvania, Cluj-Napoca is a youthful city with a lively atmosphere. Stay near Union Square to explore local cafes, shops, and attractions like St. Michael’s Church and the Botanical Garden.

Timișoara

• Known for its elegant squares and cultural diversity, Timișoara is a great destination for exploration. Stay in the city centre to visit landmarks like the Union Square and the Romanian Opera House, or near the Bega River for a scenic experience.

Constanța

• This coastal city on the Black Sea is perfect for beach lovers. Stay near Mamaia for access to the best beaches and vibrant nightlife, or in the Old Town to explore historic sites like the Roman Edifice with Mosaic.

Sighișoara

• A UNESCO World Heritage site, Sighișoara is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. Stay in the Citadel for an authentic experience, with easy access to attractions like the Clock Tower and the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler.

Bucovina

• Famous for its painted monasteries, Bucovina offers a unique cultural experience. Stay in Gura Humorului or Suceava for easy access to stunning monasteries like Voroneț and Sucevița, surrounded by beautiful landscapes.

Make sure you find your dream accommodation here.

Dracula’s Castle, Transylvania

Things to Do

In Romania, you can experience a variety of unforgettable activities throughout the entire country:

• Bucharest: This is the heart of Romania. As with many capital cities, it has metropolitan influences. Equally, Bucharest is far away from typical capital cities in Western Europe.
• Bran Castle: Explore the famous castle linked to the Dracula legend and enjoy the picturesque setting which surrounds it.
• Palace of the Parliament: Visit one of the largest administrative buildings in the world and take a tour.
• Transfăgărășan Highway: Drive or take a tour along one of the most spectacular roads in the world. This winding mountain road offers breathtaking views along a 90km stretch.
• Danube Delta: Embark on a boat tour through one of Romania’s many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Danube Delta is a paradise for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
• Peles Castle: Marvel at this stunning Neo-Renaissance castle nestled in the Carpathian Mountains. Peles castle is genuinely one of the most incredibly gorgeous buildings I have ever seen.
• Sibiu’s Old Town: If you want to see a more authentic side of Romania, away from the touristy areas, this old town is ideal. You can wander through the charming streets, visit the Brukenthal Palace, and enjoy traditional local cuisine.

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