OVERVIEW ⎯
A Land of Legends & Wild Beauty
From the dramatic peaks of the Carpathian Mountains to colourful medieval towns and fairytale castles, Romania offers a fascinating mix of nature, history and tradition. Discover a country full of contrasts, where winding mountain roads lead to charming villages and centuries-old architecture tells stories of the past.
Carpathian Mountains
Mountain trails and wild landscapes.
Historic Castles
Medieval fortresses and legendary Transylvanian stories.
Local Traditions
Traditional villages and authentic Romanian culture.
Scenic Road Trips
Winding roads through forests and mountain valleys.
TOP DESTINATIONS ⎯
Bucharest
City Guide
Grand boulevards, hidden courtyards and vibrant city life around every corner.
Brașov
Things to Do
Medieval streets, mountain views and authentic Transylvanian charm.
Transfăgărășan
Mountain Pass
Winding roads, wild mountains and breathtaking panoramic views.
Sighișoara
Fairytale Town
Cobblestone streets, colourful houses and beautifully preserved medieval charm.
GOOD TO KNOW ⎯
Good to Know
Before You Go
Romania has a few things worth knowing before you go. From getting around by train or rental car to understanding local currency, mountain weather and regional traditions, a little preparation can make your trip much easier. Here are our essential tips to help you travel around Romania with confidence and make the most of your stay.
Explore Romania by Car
Discover scenic mountain roads and hidden villages.
Discover Romania’s Best Experiences
Enjoy steam train rides, castles and local traditions.
EXPLORE ROMANIA ⎯
Discover the Beauty
of Romania
Romania is a country of dramatic mountain landscapes, medieval towns and fascinating traditions. From the forest-covered Carpathians to the colourful streets of Transylvania, every region has its own character and charm.
Beyond its famous castles and historic cities, you’ll find peaceful villages, scenic countryside and the wild beauty of the Danube Delta. Romania is a destination full of surprises, perfect for travellers who love nature, culture and places that still feel authentic.
NICE TO KNOW ⎯
Romania Travel Notes
Everything you need to know before visiting Romania, from entry requirements and local customs to transport, safety and practical travel tips for a smooth and enjoyable trip.
Entry & Visa
Romania is part of the European Union and the Schengen Area. EU citizens can generally enter with a valid national ID card or passport. Travellers from outside the EU may need a passport or visa depending on their nationality. Check the latest entry requirements before your trip.
Getting Around Romania
Romania offers several ways to get around, from trains and buses between major cities to rental cars for exploring rural areas. Public transport can be convenient for popular routes, while a car gives you more flexibility in the countryside and mountains.
Driving & Road Conditions
Driving is a great way to discover Romania’s mountain scenery, traditional villages and remote destinations. Some rural roads can be narrow or uneven, and mountain routes may be affected by weather. Check road conditions before setting off and remember that a motorway vignette is required on many roads.
Language & Communication
Romanian is the official language, and English is commonly spoken in many hotels, restaurants and tourist areas, especially among younger people. In smaller towns and rural villages, English may be less widely understood. Learning a few Romanian phrases can make everyday interactions easier.
Food & Drink
Romanian cuisine combines hearty traditional dishes with influences from neighbouring countries. Try local favourites such as sarmale (cabbage rolls), mămăligă (cornmeal porridge) and papanași (a traditional dessert). Local markets and family-run restaurants are great places to experience regional flavours.
Electricity & Power Plugs
Romania uses Type C and Type F power sockets, with a standard voltage of 230 V and a frequency of 50 Hz. Travellers from most European countries generally won’t need an adapter. If you’re travelling from outside Europe, check whether your plugs are compatible.
Public Transport
Romania’s trains and buses connect major cities like Bucharest, Brașov, Sibiu and Cluj-Napoca, although rural connections can be limited. Main providers include CFR Călători and Regio Călători for trains, FlixBus for buses and STB for public transport in Bucharest. Use Autogari.ro to compare bus routes and timetables, and plan ahead for smaller destinations.
Accommodation & Booking Tips
Romania offers a wide range of accommodation, from boutique hotels in historic towns to mountain guesthouses and traditional countryside stays. During summer, holidays and popular events, the best places can book up quickly. Reserve ahead for well-known destinations, especially in Transylvania and the Carpathian Mountains.
A few
Romanian words
can go a long way.
LOCAL LANGUAGE ⎯
Romanian Basics
Learn a few useful Romanian phrases to connect with locals and make your journey through Romania even more special.
Our Favorite Hotels & Places to Stay in Romania
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HOTELS IN ROMANIA ⎯
TRAVEL TIPS ⎯
Romania
Travel Tips
Everything you need to know for a smooth and unforgettable trip to Romania, from transport and local customs to safety, money and practical travel tips for exploring the country with confidence.
In this article
01 – Before You Go
Entry Requirements
Romania is part of the European Union and the Schengen Area. EU travellers can generally enter with a valid national ID card or passport, while visitors from other countries may need a passport and, depending on their nationality, a visa. Check the latest entry requirements before travelling.
Good to Know
Keep your passport or ID card with you when travelling, and make sure your documents remain valid for your entire stay. If you're renting a car, check which driving documents your rental company requires.
In this article
02 – Money & Costs
Cards, Cash & Everyday Costs
Romania uses the Romanian leu (RON), rather than the euro. Card payments are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, but cash is useful for local markets, small shops and rural destinations. ATMs are easy to find in towns, although withdrawal fees may apply.
ATM's
Available in towns and tourist areas. Check for possible withdrawal fees.
Card Payments
Widely accepted in cities, hotels, restaurants and shops.
Cash
Useful for local markets, small purchases and rural businesses.
Currency
Romania uses the Romanian leu (RON), not the euro. (as of 2027)
03 – Getting Around
The Best Ways to Travel
Romania is a large and diverse country, and the best way to get around depends on your route. Trains and buses connect major cities, while a rental car gives you more freedom to explore the Carpathian Mountains, traditional villages and scenic roads such as the Transfăgărășan.
By Car
Renting a car is one of the best ways to explore Romania’s mountain scenery, historic towns and remote villages. It gives you the flexibility to stop along scenic routes and discover places that are harder to reach by public transport.
Our tip: Check road conditions before driving mountain routes such as the Transfăgărășan, which is seasonally closed.
By Bus
Buses and minibuses connect major cities and smaller towns, often reaching destinations with limited train connections. Services vary by route, so planning ahead can make your journey much easier. Check timetables in advance, especially when visiting smaller towns or rural areas.
Providers: FlixBus, local bus operators
By Train
Trains connect major cities such as Bucharest, Brașov, Sibiu and Cluj-Napoca. They are an affordable and relaxing way to travel, although some journeys can be slow and rural connections may be limited. Compare journey times and connections before travelling.
Providers: CFR Călători, Transferoviar Călători
Private Transfer
Private transfers offer convenient door-to-door transport, especially for airport pickups, groups or destinations that are difficult to reach by public transport. They usually cost more than buses or trains but can save time and simplify your journey.
Our tip: Confirm the total price and pickup details before booking.
By Taxi
Taxis are useful for short journeys in Romanian cities and for getting to hotels, railway stations or airports. Ride-hailing apps are another convenient option in larger cities, although availability may be limited in rural areas.
Our tip: Check the fare before travelling and use licensed taxis or established apps.
Providers: Bolt, Uber, local taxi companies
PLAN YOUR TRIP
Useful Travel Resources
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*Discover unique stays.
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*Explore at your own pace.
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*Book unforgettable experiences.
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*Stay connected wherever you go.
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*Stay safe on every journey.
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04 – Safety
Is Romania Safe?
Romania is generally a safe destination for travellers, with most visits being trouble-free. As in any country, it’s worth staying aware of your surroundings, protecting your valuables in busy areas and taking extra care when driving in the mountains or exploring remote regions.
Our Tips for a Safe Trip
✓ Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas and on public transport.
✓
Never leave valuables visible inside a rental car.
✓
Keep a safe distance from wild bears and never feed them.
✓
Drive carefully on winding mountain roads.
✓
Check weather conditions before hiking in the Carpathian Mountains.
✓
The European emergency number is 112.
✓
In Romania, a strict 0.0% blood alcohol limit applies to drivers.
✓
Whenever possible, use ATMs located directly at bank branches.
Romania’s Most
Beautiful Places
Scenic Road Trips
Drive through the Carpathians on spectacular mountain roads and discover remote villages.
Fairytale Towns
Wander through colourful streets, historic squares and charming Transylvanian towns.
05 – Culture & Etiquette
Useful Things to Know
Romania blends traditional customs, regional heritage and a strong sense of hospitality. A little local awareness goes a long way, from greeting people politely to respecting village traditions and the country’s beautiful natural landscapes.
Local Languages
Romanian is the official language. English is widely spoken in tourist areas, especially among younger people.
Friendly Greetings
A friendly Bună ziua (hello) is a polite way to greet people when entering shops, restaurants or meeting locals.
Food & Hospitality
Romanian culture places great value on hospitality. Traditional dishes, family meals and local specialities are an important part of the experience.
Respect Nature
Keep the Carpathian Mountains clean, stay on marked hiking trails and observe wildlife, especially bears, from a safe distance.
06 – What to Pack
Packing Essentials
Romania’s weather varies considerably between seasons and regions. Summer can bring hot days in cities and cooler evenings in the mountains, while winter often means snow, freezing temperatures and challenging conditions in the Carpathians. Pack according to your route and the time of year.
Packing for Summer:
- Lightweight clothing for hot city days
- Warm layer for cool mountain evenings
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Insect repellent for forests and countryside
- Light rain jacket for mountain showers
- Reusable water bottle for road trips
Packing for Winter:
- Insulated winter jacket
- Thermal base layers
- Waterproof winter boots
- Warm gloves, hat and scarf
- Traction aids for icy paths
- Lip balm and moisturiser for cold weather
07 – Best Time to Visit
When to Go
For us, the best time to visit Romania is between May and June or September, when the countryside turns lush green, temperatures are pleasant and the mountain landscapes are perfect for scenic road trips, hiking in the Carpathians and exploring Transylvania’s charming medieval towns.
Our Romania
Interactive Map
When we travel through Romania, we always save the places that make us stop and think, “wow, we definitely want to remember this one.” From hidden gems and charming villages to mountain roads, medieval towns, beautiful stays and unforgettable landscapes, our Romania map brings all our favorite places together in one place. Simply open the map and explore the places we’ve personally visited, loved and would recommend along the way.
ALL ROMANIA GUIDES ⎯
All Guides & Travel Itineraries
Bran
Explore a legendary castle, surrounded by forested hills and the timeless charm of Transylvania.
Brașov
Wander through medieval streets, admire colourful rooftops and enjoy views of the Carpathian Mountains.
Bucharest
Experience grand boulevards, striking architecture and the vibrant energy of Romania’s lively capital.
Cluj-Napoca
Discover elegant squares, independent cafés and the creative spirit of this vibrant Transylvanian city.
Danube Delta
Cruise through winding waterways, spot rare wildlife and experience one of Europe’s wildest landscapes.
Mocănița Maramureș
A nostalgic steam train journey through forested valleys and traditional northern Romania.
Places to Visit
Explore medieval towns, legendary castles and spectacular mountain scenery across Romania’s diverse regions.
Romania Itinerary
Plan an unforgettable road trip through historic cities, charming villages and breathtaking Carpathian landscapes.
Sibiu
Pastel-coloured facades, cobblestone streets and grand squares framed by the Făgăraș Mountains.
Sighișoara
Colourful medieval houses, narrow cobblestone lanes and a hilltop citadel steeped in history.
Timișoara
Elegant architecture, spacious squares and lively cafés give this western city its distinctive charm.
Transfăgărășan
Drive one of Europe’s most spectacular mountain roads, with endless breathtaking alpine scenery.
BEST TIME TO VISIT ⎯
Best Time to Visit Romania
Best Time to
Visit Romania
Romania is a destination worth visiting throughout the year, but each season has its own charm. From spring blossoms and summer road trips through the Carpathian Mountains to colourful autumn forests and snowy winter landscapes, here’s our little overview to help you choose the best time for your trip.
March – May
Spring is a beautiful time to explore Romania as the country wakes up after winter. The countryside turns green, flowers begin to bloom and the cities become lively again.
🌿 WHY VISIT IN SPRING?
- Beautiful spring landscapes and green countryside
- Great time to explore castles and historic towns
- Hiking season starts in many areas
- Good conditions for road trips
- Fewer tourists than in summer
QUICK TIP
We’ve visited Romania twice, in May and July, and loved both trips. July was beautiful but sometimes reached almost 40°C. For us, April, May and September are the best months to do a road trip throug Romania. It's ideal for exploring medieval towns, scenic mountain roads and the Carpathians in milder weather.
June – August
Summer is the most popular season for traveling through Romania. The days are long, mountain roads are open and there is plenty of time for hiking, road trips and exploring the Black Sea coast.
☀️ WHY VISIT IN SUMMER?
- Long and warm days
- Excellent hiking conditions in the Carpathians
- Great season for road trips
- Best time for high mountain roads such as the Transfăgărășan
- Ideal for the Black Sea coast
QUICK TIP
We’ve visited Romania twice, in May and July, and loved both trips. July was beautiful but sometimes reached almost 40°C. For us, April, May and September are the best months to do a road trip throug Romania. It's ideal for exploring medieval towns, scenic mountain roads and the Carpathians in milder weather.
September – November
Autumn is one of our favorite seasons in Romania. The forests turn golden and red, temperatures become more comfortable and Transylvania looks especially beautiful.
🍁 WHY VISIT IN AUTUMN?
- Incredible fall colors in the Carpathians
- Great conditions for photography
- Beautiful atmosphere around Transylvania’s castles and villages
- Excellent season for scenic road trips
- Mild Temperatures, Ideal for hiking and exploring medieval towns.
QUICK TIP
We’ve visited Romania twice, in May and July, and loved both trips. July was beautiful but sometimes reached almost 40°C. For us, April, May and September are the best months to do a road trip throug Romania. It's ideal for exploring medieval towns, scenic mountain roads and the Carpathians in milder weather.
December – February
Winter transforms Romania into a snowy landscape, especially in the Carpathians. Medieval towns, mountain villages and cozy accommodations take on a completely different atmosphere.
🌨️ WHY VISIT IN WINTER?
- Snow-covered Carpathian landscapes
- Great for skiing and winter activities
- Beautiful winter atmosphere in Transylvania
- Christmas markets and festive city centers
- Cozy mountain stays
QUICK TIP
We’ve visited Romania twice, in May and July, and loved both trips. July was beautiful but sometimes reached almost 40°C. For us, April, May and September are the best months to do a road trip throug Romania. It's ideal for exploring medieval towns, scenic mountain roads and the Carpathians in milder weather.
Monthly Weather Overview
These are average daytime temperatures across Romania. Keep in mind that the weather varies by region, with the Carpathian Mountains being much cooler, Transylvania experiencing distinct seasons, and southern cities like Bucharest getting particularly hot during summer.
❄️
⌀3°C
Jan
🌨️
⌀6°C
Feb
🌱
⌀12°C
Mar
🌸
⌀18°C
Apr
🌿
⌀23°C
May
☀️
⌀27°C
June
☀️
⌀30°C
July
☀️
⌀30°C
Aug
🍂
⌀25°C
Sep
🍁
⌀18°C
Oct
🌧️
⌀10°C
Nov
❄️
⌀4°C
Dec
❄️
⌀37°F
Jan
🌨️
⌀43°F
Feb
🌱
⌀54°F
Mar
🌸
⌀64°F
Apr
🌿
⌀73°F
May
☀️
⌀81°F
June
☀️
⌀86°F
July
☀️
⌀86°F
Aug
🍂
⌀77°F
Sep
🍁
⌀64°F
Oct
🌧️
⌀50°F
Nov
❄️
⌀39°F
Dec
TOURS & ACTIVITIES ⎯
Tours & Activities in Romania
Discover Romania’s highlights, from scenic mountain roads and medieval castles to colourful old towns, traditional villages and local cuisine. From Transylvania to the Danube Delta, there’s something special around every corner.
TRAVEL TIP
Book popular tours and activities ahead of time, especially in summer. From guided castle visits and traditional steam train rides to wildlife excursions in the Danube Delta, Romania offers unique experiences that are worth planning in advance.
PLAN YOUR TRIP ⎯
Need Help Planning Your Romania Trip?
Check out our interactive map, travel tips, recommended hotels
and the best tours to make the most of your journey.
PLAN YOUR TRIP ⎯
Need Help Planning Your Romania Trip?
Check out our interactive map, travel tips, recommended hotels and the best tours to make the most of your journey.