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12 Best Cities to Visit in Romania

By Alex Schultz · Last updated on May 4, 2024

With many different sides to it, Romania is just as much rolling forest-clad hills and picturesque mountains as it is beautiful medieval towns, ancient monasteries, and breathtaking castles. Its cities are just as diverse in character and appearance.

Consequently, it is an incredible country to visit, and many of Romania’s cities look as if they have just sprung up out of a fairytale such is their beauty and charm. Wandering around the old streets of Brasov and Sighisoara, for example, is an absolute delight, as you pass medieval watchtowers, elegant churches, and lively market squares.

While there is a lot of history on show throughout the country, there is a dynamic feel about many of its cities’ streets. Happening cultural scenes can be found in both Sibiu and Bucharest , while the capital is also home to some of the nation’s best nightlife, bars, and restaurants. With something for everyone to enjoy, our list of the best cities to visit in Romania will surely not disappoint with all that they have to offer.

12. Targu Mures

Often overlooked by tourists, Targu Mures is a lovely town located in Transylvania.

Life in Targu Mures revolves around Trandafirilor Square, which is very impressive; it is home to two cathedrals and the spectacular Cultural Palace, which displays some delightful Art Nouveau architecture.

With a 15th century fortress also on hand, alongside lots of shops, restaurants, and bars, Targu Mures is well worth stopping by when exploring the rest of the region.

11. Suceava

Despite its long history, Suceava does not have much in the way of historic sites or cultural attractions. Most people simply use it as a base from which to visit the spectacularly painted monasteries in nearby Bukovina.

Suceava’s main attraction is its impressive 14th-century fortress, but other than a few churches here and there, there is not much going on – although it does have some good restaurants and bars.

As such, it is best used as an affordable base from which to explore the surrounding region, home to some wonderful castles and churches.

The largest city in the north-eastern region of Moldavia, Iasi acts as a hub for the area; as such, there is loads going on here, whether you’re into food, drink, culture or nightlife.

Due to its vast history, there are loads of architectural treasures to be found sprinkled throughout the city; old monasteries are nestled alongside elegant theatres, communist apartment blocks, and a plethora of churches – which are almost everywhere you look.

With loads of shopping on offer as well as great restaurants, bars and nightlife, Iasi’s youthful population makes it a fun and lively place to visit.

Although Oradea has certainly seen better days, the city is full of beautiful, if slightly decaying buildings that date back to when it was ruled by the Austro-Hungarians.

As it dates all the way back to Roman times, there is a lot of history on show. While wandering its lively streets, you’ll find beautiful Art Nouveau mansions, Baroque churches, and Neoclassical theatres.

Located just a stone’s throw away from the Hungarian border, Oradea is a multicultural city with a large Hungarian population. Many people visit on their way to and from Hungary.

8. Sighisoara

With its lovely pastel-colored buildings, winding cobbled streets, and lofty spires and towers, Sighisoara certainly paints a pretty picture.

Its delightful, walled old town is very well preserved and is now a popular tourist destination. The fact that Vlad the Impaler – who was the inspiration for Dracula – was born here only adds to the fairytale vibe about the place.

Well worth visiting, Sighisoara’s medieval streets are full of artisan shops and atmospheric little cafes. Wandering around, you’ll almost feel as if you’ve stepped back into the past.

7. Alba Iulia

Often overlooked by visitors to Romania, Alba Iulia is home to a magnificent star-shaped citadel; contained within its old walls are some lovely monuments, museums and more.

There is a lot of history on show in Alba Iulia’s well-preserved streets. It is here that Transylvania and Romania decided to unify together. Of particular interest is the wonderful 13th century Roman Catholic Cathedral which displays some lovely Romanesque architecture.

With a number of elegant palaces and glittering cathedrals and churches, visitors will find a lot to see and do in the citadel, in contrast to the rest of the city, which is not nearly so pretty in comparison.

6. Timisoara

With some lovely parks, squares, and gardens scattered about the city, Timisoara is a pretty place to walk around. In 2021, it will be the European Capital of Culture, so it is a good idea to visit now before the crowds arrive.

The third largest city in the country, it is renowned for being the first to rise up against Ceausescu, the former Communist leader of Romania in 1989. Several places around Timisoara commemorate this event, such as the beautiful Victory Square and the fascinating Museum of the Revolution.

A very cosmopolitan place, Timisoara has lots of great restaurants and bars as well as a lively nightlife scene. Many people use the city as a base while exploring the surrounding region.

With a very Germanic look and feel, Sibiu is an interesting city to visit; it is home to the country’s largest German community, which means there is an intoxicating mix of different cultural influences present in its streets.

A charming and picturesque place, Sibiu’s Old Town has loads of grand architecture on display. Just two of the highlights on show are the old citadel and Huet Square, which is lined by beautiful Gothic buildings.

A number of opera, theater, and film festivals are held in Sibiu over the course of the year; as such, the city has a thriving cultural scene – as well as one of the country’s best museums in the shape of the Brukenthal Museum, which exhibits many brilliant artworks by both Romanian and international artists.

4. Cluj-Napoca

The second largest city in the country, Cluj-Napoca is full of wonderful art, architecture, and culture. Its youthful population makes it a fun and festive place to visit if you’re looking for some good nightlife.

With some lovely architecture on show in the form of its baroque buildings and old churches, there are lots of interesting art galleries and cultural centers scattered about; visitors should make sure to stop by the wonderful National Museum of Art. In addition to this, there are plenty of peaceful parks and atmospheric cafes and bars for you to enjoy.

Located in Transylvania, Cluj-Napoca is an increasingly popular destination thanks to improving flight connections. Nowadays, many people use it as a base from which to explore the surrounding region, which is full of beautiful scenery and old castles.

3. Constanta

Located on the Black Sea, Constanta is a large port city that comes second only to Bucharest in terms of importance to the country. Remarkably, it was founded more than 2600 years ago.

While most people visit Constanta for the seaside resorts and beautiful beaches that lie nearby, the city has a lot going for it. There are lots of historic buildings and interesting museums on hand. Of these, The National Museum of History and Archaeology is undoubtedly the most interesting, with its extensive collection of artifacts and marble tombs.

With lots of nice hotels, bars, and seafood restaurants to be found in the city, Constanta is more than just a place to stop by on the way to the country’s Black Sea beaches.

With the Carpathian Mountains hemming it in on all sides, Brasov’s beautiful setting is complemented perfectly by its charming medieval center. It is not without reason that this is one of the most popular destinations in Romania.

Wandering around the fairytale-esque Old Town is a lovely way to spend the day, as you pass fabulous baroque buildings, Gothic churches, and medieval watchtowers. The main square has loads of cafes and restaurants if you simply want to grab a coffee and watch the world go by.

As well as having some lovely little hiking trails and paths, the nearby mountains are home to one of the best ski resorts in Romania. Many people use Brasov as a scenic base from which to explore some of Transylvania’s many castles.

1. Bucharest

Once known as ‘the Little Paris’, in recent decades, Bucharest’s reputation has diminished somewhat, as Communist rule and decaying buildings put people off. Romania’s capital is still a captivating place to visit, however, with loads to see and do; it is slowly regaining its popularity as a tourist destination.

Mesmerizing to explore, Bucharest’s leafy parks lie side by side with stunning 17th-century Orthodox churches, fascinating museums and, of course, the enormous Parliament Palace – the largest parliament building on Earth.

With its interesting mix of Communist-era concrete blocks and monuments located alongside elegant villas and wonderful buildings – such as the lavish Mitropoliei Palace – Bucharest’s streets are pulsating with energy. Its trendy bars and lively nightlife scene offer up yet another side to this intriguing capital.

Map of cities in Romania

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9 Best Cities & Towns to Visit in Romania (+ Map & Insider Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: May 29, 2024

9 Best Cities & Towns to Visit in Romania (+ Map & Insider Tips)

Looking for travel inspiration for the best cities and towns in Romania? In this article, you’ll find a local’s guide to the very best cities to visit in Romania , coupled with insider tips and recommendations for the best things to see and do in each town. Find out!

Romania is perhaps best known to international visitors for its capital city, Bucharest, and as the ’land of the vampires’. But the highlights of Bucharest and ‘Dracula tourism’ is only a portion of all the wonderful things you can discover.

You’ll find big modern cities bustling with life and culture. There are also beautiful mountains, forests, and natural landscapes everywhere, wild and untouched. Plenty of preserved medieval villages, castles, and churches, as if you somehow got into a fairy tale. Some sights are so ancient and rural that you’ll think you are traveling back in time…

Romania is a unique combination of the reminiscents of its multicultural past, untamed natural landscapes, and a spirited youth, looking and working towards building a better future. And there’s no better way to discover all facets of Romania than by visiting at least a few of its most beautiful towns.

Good to know: This guide to the best cities in Romania is written with the help of a local travel expert. Not only will you find inspiration for the most beautiful towns to see in Romania, but also some insider tips for your visit.

To help you plan your trip, we also created a map of the best cities in Romania. Romania is a big country. Some of the nicest cities are located quite close to Bucharest and can be visited as day trips. However, if you want to see the ones further away, you’re probably better off booking a multi-day tour or renting a car and making a road trip.

TIP: If you are looking for a way to see the very best cities in Romania in just a few days, then check out this highly-rated 3-day tour. It visits some of the nicest cities (relatively) close to Bucharest.

If you rather rent a car and explore on your own, check this website for some of the best deals for car hire. And don’t forget to take their full insurance option!

How to use this map: Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

These are the most beautiful towns and cities in Romania:

1. Brașov

Brașov is not only one of the most beautiful towns in Romania, but it’s also one of the most charming, idyllic towns in all of Eastern Europe. It’s a fortified city with a romantic atmosphere, and that makes it one of the most visited cities in Romania. In addition, just outside of town, you’ll find the famous Bran Castle (aka Dracula’s Castle) , one of the most-visited places in the country.

This charming Saxon city in the heart of Transylvania was built in the 13th century by the Teutonic Knights. Brasov used to be one of the most vibrant cultural hubs of the country during the Middle Ages. Wandering around the narrow cobblestone streets and centuries-old fortified buildings, you can vividly imagine medieval people running around the streets, merchants selling their stuff on the market, the sound of horses and carriages…

For a complete experience, make sure to try authentic local cuisine. For that, we recommend a restaurant called La Ceaun . Located right in the center of the city (Piața Sfatului), this restaurant serves traditional Romanian dishes. But beware that Romanians love meaty and rich food such as pork, beef, sausages, sour soups, stews, cabbages, goulash, paprika, and onion.

Practical Info for Visiting Brașov

Getting there: Brasov is about 170 km (105 mi), 2h45 drive from Bucharest. If you don’t have a car, the easiest way to get there is by booking a private transfer or a day tour from Bucharest . The most popular tours take you to Brasov Old Town, Bran Castle, and Peleș Castle in one day. If you are short on time, this is the best way to go.

Getting around: The easiest way to get around the beautiful historic streets of Brașov is on foot. For other attractions further away from the center you can take the bus, train, or book local tours.

How much time you need: While you can see the best of the city and surroundings in a day, we recommend spending a weekend in Brașov. That way you can explore the medieval city and also visit a few other attractions nearby ( Bran Castle , 7 Ladders Canyon , bear watching tours , Carpathian mountains, Solomon’s rocks).

Where to stay: Most people just visit Brasov for a day. But if you have more time and decide to stay in the city for a night, we recommend staying in the Old Town. Check out the Safrano Palace Hotel. For a longer stay, check out the Grand Hotel Belvedere .

2. Bucharest

Romania’s capital since 1862, Bucharest is the largest city in the country and has the biggest population. At the turn of the 20th century, Bucharest used to be referred to as the ‘Little Paris of the East’ because of its elegant grand architecture and the people’s passion for French culture. People wore the latest Parisian fashion and often traveled to France to study or attend cultural events.

But, during the Communist regime (1947 – 1989), the ruthless authoritarian leader Ceausescu has built many thick grey communist buildings (Stalinist architecture) in an attempt to urbanize the whole country. These two different architectural styles make Bucharest a really unique city.

The Palace of Parliament, in the heart of the city, was built during communism. The heaviest building in the whole world, it’s a massive structure that you really have to see to believe. But while the Communist past is a significant part of Bucharest, the city has changed beyond recognition in the last decades. It’s a lively bustling place with so much to see and do and a wonderful atmosphere.

Walk around the Old Town in search for centuries-old churches and quirky modern cafés that are standing side by side. Take a ‘Communism tour’ or get a bit off the beaten path and explore the incredible street art collection. There’s truly something for everyone in Bucharest!

LEARN MORE: Best Things to Do in Bucharest Hidden Gems of Bucharest

Practical Info for Visiting Bucharest

Getting there: Bucharest has an international airport with lots of direct connections to many European destinations. The airport is located 30 minutes drive from the city center and it’s best to book a private airport transfer .

Getting around: The public transport in the capital makes it easy to get around the city. The subway system (Bucharest Metro), buses, trolleys, trams, light rails run from 04:30 to 00:00 and there are also night buses available. The Old Town of Bucharest can easily be explored on foot. Bike tours are also a good way to see a lot in a short time.

How much time you need: You can see the most important landmarks of Bucharest in one day. However, if you want to explore a bit deeper, plan at least two days for the city itself. In addition, you can book day tours to some of the best towns and places in Romania from Bucharest. So depending on your interests, you can easily fill 3-7 days exploring the city and beyond.

Where to stay: We recommend staying in the city center. With so many nice cafés and restaurants in the Old Town, it’s a wonderful place to be in the evening. Check the Grand Hotel Continental or Radisson Blue , both very popular choices with excellent location.

Stavropoleos Monastery in Bucharest Romania

Sinaia is a charming mountain resort and town located between Bucharest and Brasov. It’s idyllic and small, so it’s perfect if you want to have some quiet moments. Most tourists come here for the beautiful Peles Castle and Sinaia Monastery , or simply to relax in the beautiful nature, hidden away from the busy and noisy everyday life.

There’s not much else to do in the town itself but to rest and walk in the mountains. But if you need some peace, this is certainly the place to be. If you are a ski lover, you should consider visiting Sinaia in the winter, when life gets a little busier here thanks to the popular ski resort.

Practical Info for Visiting Sinaia

Getting there: Sinaia is 120km (75 mi), 1h45 drive from Bucharest. You can also get here by train, which takes about 1,5 hrs. Many people visit Peles Castle in Sinaia in combination with Brasov and Dracula’s Castle on a day tour from Bucharest.

Getting around: You can explore Sinaia on foot.

How much time you need: One day is enough for Sinaia, Peles Castle, and Sinaia Monastery.

Where to stay: As already mentioned, most visitors only come here for a day. But if you decide to stay and explore the busy sights after day tourists have left, we recommend Hotel Sinaia or a lower-budget option Hotel Rina Cerbul . Both have an excellent location just near the Castle and the Monastery.

Sibiu is another idyllic medieval town you should really see in Romania. It’s one of the oldest still existing Saxon towns in Europe. Looking like a picturesque German town out of a fairy tale or fantasy movie, it feels like time has stopped here centuries ago.

The city was founded in the 11th century by a Hungarian king who invited Saxon settlers to live here. Sibiu flourished for hundreds of years as the home of Saxons and an important cultural hub in the region.

While there are only about 1500 ethnic Germans still living here (during communism, most residents slowly emigrated to Germany), their architecture still stands today as one of the most scenic places in Europe.

Sibiu is home to mythical attractions! Don’t miss the 160 years old bridge that can sense if you are lying and makes strange noises. Check out the Stairs of Passage that actually looks like you traveled back in a time machine and the red rooftop houses with eyes, spanning all around the town, watching over every step you make. We also recommend climbing on the top of Council Square to get a full view of the amazing Old Town.

Practical Info for Visiting Sibiu

Getting there: Sibiu is 280 km (175 mi), 4-5h drive from Bucharest or 2,5h drive from either Brasov or Cluj-Napoca. There are also flights from Bucharest to Sibiu. If you rent a car, you can make a nice road trip visiting all these places. Alternatively, you can visit Sibiu with a day tour from the nearby cities . Some multi-day tours also include Sibiu in their itinerary.

Getting around: Sibiu is a small and picturesque town and can be best explored on foot.

How much time you need: You can see the best of Sibiu in half a day to a day. If you can stay a day longer, we recommend visiting the nearby city Sighișoara (see below) and Biertan village. This fortified Saxon village, surrounded by romantic vineyards and hills, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The place looks like it’s been trapped in time.

For an even more spooky experience, visit the city during the annual Horror and Fantasy Film Festival called ‘Luna Plina ’ (Full Moon), held here every summer.

Where to stay: Stay in the historic city center! If you are looking for a beautiful historic hotel, check out Hotel Imparatul Romanilor . For more contemporary lodging, you can’t go wrong with the highly-rated Continental Forum .

5. Sighișoara

Can you imagine a place more mystical than the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler aka Count Dracula himself? Sighișoara is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and yet another historic town that’s well worth visiting in Romania.

Founded in the 12th century, Sighisoara was an important trade center and home of Saxon craftsmen for hundreds of years, who left their marks on the architecture of the town. Most of the city was rebuilt in the 17th century after a fire that destroyed almost everything.

Today, Sighișoara is a peaceful and idyllic town, with colorful houses, narrow cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, old churches, and artisan boutiques, all of which are very popular among tourists. Sighisoara is probably one of the most picturesque towns in Romania!

Sighisoara - the most colorful town in Romania

Practical Info for Visiting Sighișoara

Getting there: Sighișoara is about 290 km (180 mi) 4,5h drive from Bucharest or about 1h45 drive from Brasov or Sibiu. Some Transylvania tours also visit here.

Getting around: The town is small, so you can easily explore it all on foot.

How much time you need: Exploring Sighișoara will require one pleasant, relaxed day.

Where to stay: Sighișoara has some really nice hotels in the historic city center. For a more local experience, try the beautiful Casa Savri . If you’re visiting with a family, check out DoubleTree by Hilton (they have an indoor pool).

6. Cluj-Napoca

Cluj Napoca is a historic Romanian city, yet it feels so young at the same time. Chosen as the European Youth Capital in 2015, the city has such a unique mixture of wonderful historical buildings and museums, beautiful nature, dynamic nightlife, artsy culinary world, young population, cultural events, and international music festivals.

We’re not exaggerating when we say that Cluj-Napoca is throbbing with life. It’s a university city that hosts around 100,000 students each year and you’ll love the atmosphere here!

Its history is no less impressive. The city is about 2,000 years old and has been shaped by countless events and so many different cultures. First, it was home to the Dacian and Roman people, then it survived a Mongol invasion that destroyed almost everything. Rebuilt by Saxons, it became a cultural hub in the Hungarian Kingdom.

Under the Habsburg Dynasty, Cluj-Napoca was part of the Austro-Hungarian empire, until WWI, when it became part of Romania. It was then shaped by the communist regime’s urbanization plan. And with all its history, Cluj-Napoca stands today as an ambitious, modern city.

Practical Info for Visiting Cluj-Napoca

Getting there: Cluj-Napoca is in the northwestern part of Romania, about 450 km (280 mi) from Bucharest. It would take you at least 7 hours to drive there, but there are also direct flights between the two cities. A visit to Cluj-Napoca is best combined with that of Sibiu, Sighișoara, and also Timișoara (see below).

Getting around: The city’s public transport is well-developed, so you’ll easily get anywhere without a car. There are also guided tours of the city and the surrounding areas.

How much time you need: Since it’s a large place with a rich history, we recommend spending 2-3 days in Cluj-Napoca.

Where to stay: Stay in the Old Town. One of the nicest hotels is the DoubleTree by Hilton . For a lower-budget option, check out Lol et Lola Hotel , one of the best-rated 3* hotels in town. Also worth mentioning, is the beautiful Hotel Platinia , just outside of the Old Town.

7. Timișoara

Timișoara is the third-largest city in Romania and one of the most beautiful cities to visit in the country! Located in western Romania, close to Hungarian and Serbian borders, Timișoara is a hub for students, businessmen, and all sorts of cultural events. The city has earned the title of the 2023 European Capital of Culture, with lots of events planned around this.

Its origins date back to the 13th century. And like all the other centuries-old Romanian cities, Timisoara has been through so many historical changes. Tatar invasion, Hungarian kingdom, the Turks, Austria, Swabian Germans, and Serbia all had their roles in its long history.

But perhaps the most important event that ever took place in Timișoara is the anti-government demonstrations on 15-17 December 1989, which quickly evolved into the fully-fledged revolution that resulted in the collapse of the communist regime.

Practical Info for Visiting Timișoara

Getting there: Timișoara is located 550 km (340 mi), 7-8 hrs drive from Bucharest. It’s actually easier to drive here from Budapest in Hungary or simply book a flight from Bucharest. You can rent a car and combine a visit here with that of the other Romanian cities mentioned in this article – Cluj-Napoca, Sibiu, and Sighișoara.

Getting around: The historic Old Town is best to be explored on foot, and everywhere else you will be able to take a cheap bus, tram or taxi.

How much time you need: One day is enough for the city and you can take a city tour to learn more about its history. If you have more time in the area, rent a car and visit the other cities. Also the nearby Arad town is quite interesting.

Where to stay: There are many nice hotels in the Timisoara town center. We recommend Old Town Hotel in the city center or Hotel Tresor Le Palais if you are traveling by car and rather stay a bit outside of the center.

Timisoara - one of the best cities in Romania

8. Constanța

Constanța , located on the shores of the Black Sea, is Romania’s largest port city. It’s a multicultural place, with beautiful architecture. The city was founded by Greek settlers more than 2,000 years ago. There’s even a legend that states the city was visited by the Greek mythical figures Jason and the Argonauts.

Since Romania’s coast on the Black Sea is one 100 km straight line, you can easily visit other coastal resorts and beaches from Constanța.

Here are some of the nicest beaches to visit in Romania:

Eforie Nord – this beach is popular among families with young children.
Vama Veche – right near the Bulgarian border, this is a bit of an artsy, chill-out place.
Costinesti – this is where the nonstop parties happen, where all the young and dynamic people gather together.
Venus Beach – one of the best beaches in Romania, but for this reason, expect it to be crowded most of the time.
Mamaia Beach – this is where all the exclusive and fancy resorts can be found (but still affordable compared to many other European beaches).

Practical Info for Visiting Constanța

Getting there: Constanta is just 230 km, 2,5 hrs drive from Bucharest. Most of the best beaches are just a short drive from there.

Getting around: Constanta city center can best be explored on foot. For the Black Sea coast and the beaches, it’s easier if you have a car, but public transport is available as well.

How much time you need: One day is enough for the highlights of the city and a few other places nearby. You can visit here with a day tour from Bucharest . If you are visiting in summer and are looking for a relaxing beach holiday in Romania, you can easily spend a week here.

Where to stay: Ramada by Wyndham Constanta is a nice hotel for sightseeing. If you rather stay closer to the beach, check out the Maritimo Luxury ApartHotel. For a beach holiday, check out resorts in the nearby Mamaia .

9. Iași

Before Romania was unified, the country consisted of three separate principalities: Wallachia, Transylvania, and Moldova. Iasi was the capital of the Moldova region, thus a very important cultural and economic center. The city is home to Romania’s first and oldest university, Alexandru Ioan Cuza, and many others. Students and business-minded people are taking over the city.

While many Romanian cities on this list have Saxon heritage and are located in Transylvania, Iași is located in the Principality of Moldova on the northeastern border of Romania and has a completely different atmosphere. And while this region is lesser-known to international travelers, the culture and the history of this region are just as old and as beautiful as in the other parts of Romania.

Don’t miss the Orthodox monasteries, old provincial houses, and grand cultural buildings such as the Opera and The Palace of Culture. The latter is a mixture of Neo-Gothic, Neo-Baroque, and Art Nouveau architectural styles, and it looks even more wonderful at night, when it’s beautifully lit.

TIP: Perhaps not many people know this, but Romania produces delicious wine. The most famous wine of the country is a full-bodied, smoky, spicy, dry red wine called Fetească Neagră which comes from a wine region in Iași. So if you love good wine and visit Iasi, make sure to try it right here where it’s made! You can also opt for a city tour that also visits a local winery .

Practical Info for Visiting Iași

Getting there: Iasi is located on the Moldavian border, about 400 km, 6hrs from Bucharest. The easiest way to get here is by taking a flight, which is both cheap and fast.

Getting around: Since the city is not very big, you’ll probably be able to visit the most important sights in one day. You can visit most sights on foot and public transport is also good.

How much time you need: One day is enough for Iasi. But if you already take the time to get here, you may as well stay a few days and explore the beautiful surroundings. You can find some ideas here .

Where to stay: Unirea Hotel & Spa is one of the top picks in the city. Hotel Arnia is a great 3* hotel for those on a lower budget. For a more luxurious experience, check out the Pleiada Boutique Hotel & Spa . The nice thing about visiting lesser-known cities in Romania is that even a 5*-luxury is very affordable here!

So, this is a local’s guide to the very best cities and towns to see in Romania. I hope that this inspired you to discover this beautiful country beyond its capital city Bucharest and Dracula’s Castle!

If you are looking for more ideas for nice places to visit in Eastern Europe, check out our guide to Krakow in Poland . Another great place to visit is my home country, Lithuania . Check it out!

50 Best Places to Visit in Romania, Europe’s Underrated Gem

I don’t know why I waited such a long time to share a list of the best places to visit in Romania.

Not only do I love this country because that’s where my grandparents were born but also because it’s an underrated beautiful destination and one of the cheapest countries to visit in the world .

If you’re a first-time visitor to Romania , you’ll see that it’s full of surprises, from medieval cities and villages to jaw-dropping natural landscapes to the most unique historical landmarks .

On my Romania road trip , I obviously only got to see some of them, so I’ve gathered the recommendations of a few more bloggers to create this awesome Romania bucket list just for you.

* This post may contain affiliate links from which I earn a commission (for more info, read my disclosure ). As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

* I try to keep the information on this blog as updated as possible, but I still recommend consulting the latest prices, opening hours, and other details on the official website of each site, hotel, and tour, as well as checking the updated public transport routes and timetables.

Romania travel guide: beautiful places in Romania, travel tips, and more.

Table of Contents

Historical Landmarks and Unique Points of Interest

Castelul de lut.

Contributed by Rachelle from Adventure is Never Far Away

Tucked away in the Transylvanian countryside of Romania lies the Castelul de Lut Valea Zanelor, translated to “Clay Castle of the Valley of Fairies.”

This quirky, soon-to-be-open hotel is made entirely of clay, straw, and sand, with all 10 rooms having their own unique style. The structure itself was built by the craftsmen from Maramures, a region in Transylvania known for beautiful wooden churches.

Castelul de Lut is set in a picturesque location within sight of the mighty Carpathian mountain range. Local legend says that fairies still roam there, protecting the magical area.

For just 5 Lei a person, you can wander the grounds, check out each room, take all the pictures you want, and relax in the fairy garden by the babbling brook nearby!

Best places to visit in Romania - Castelul de Lut

Painted Monasteries of Bucovina

Contributed by Kristin from Adventures with Ensuite

In the northeast of Romania, close to the border with Ukraine, lies Bucovina. It is nearly six hours by car from the capital Bucharest, but it is worth it to see the eight UNESCO-listed painted churches and monasteries from the 15-16th centuries.

From the outside, the churches look like forts, surrounded by heavy defense walls and towers. However, the interior and exterior walls of the churches are covered in mural paintings, depicting scenes from the Old and New Testaments.

The churches are spread over a relatively large area with limited public transport, so renting a car is the best way to get around. If you don’t have time to see all eight, make sure you include Voronet, Moldovita, and Sucevita in your itinerary.

During winter, there is a lot of snow, so the best time to travel is from mid-April to mid-October.

Corvin Castle

Contributed by Odette from Omnivagant

Located on the edges of Transylvania, you will find one of Romania’s most beautiful castles: Corvin Castle .

The history of this castle dates back as far as the 14th century, and visiting this place will almost feel like you are stepping into a fairytale, or a Harry Potter Movie.

To access this castle, you will have to walk across a beautiful wooden bridge through the ports of the castle until you reach the courtyard.

From here, you can visit various sections, such as the knights’ hall, the towers, and plenty of rooms that have been filled with original and replica furniture to give you a better idea of what Corvin Castle truly looked like back in the day.

Visiting the Corvin Castle is one of the best things to do in Romania – it’s a magical experience, one that undoubtedly deserves a spot on anyone’s Romania itinerary.

Libearty Bear Sanctuary in Zarnesti

Spreading across 70 hectares (160 acres) of forested area, this incredible, unique sanctuary is the home of dozens of rescued bears (and also wolves and deers).

Hearing their heartbreaking stories yet seeing them so free and content, I couldn’t help but feel sad and happy both at the same time.

It is, without a doubt, one of the best places to see in Romania – it was one of the highlights of my trip, and it must be on your Romania bucket list!

Ruins of the Carta Monastery

Located near the city of Sibiu, this abbey is assumed to be founded by Cistercian monks in the 13th century. It is the only Cistercian monastery in Romania, and I’m certain you’ll want to see its fairytale-like remains.

Turda Salt Mine

Contributed by Nicky from That Anxious Traveller

Turda Salt Mine is one of the most extraordinary things to see in Romania! Easily accessible from the pretty town of Cluj-Napoca , you might think that this is going to be your standard historical sight – but you’d be wrong.

Enter the mine, walking through increasingly chilly rooms, and you’ll certainly see mines with ye olde excavating equipment.

But the big surprise comes when you descend to the Rudolf Mine – and discover that here, hundreds of meters below ground level, is a fully functioning theme park and recreation area!

Take your pick of activities under the stalactites hanging from the cavern’s roof – there’s ping pong, a basketball court, an auditten-pinor concerts, ten pin bowling… oh, and your standard boating lake (saltwater, of course), and a Ferris wheel. Yes, seriously.

Dumbrava Sibiului Natural Park and the Astra Museum Complex

Just outside Sibiu’s city center, you’ll find a natural park that houses one of the largest outdoor museums in the world and one of the most amazing points of interest in Romania.

The park is a protected area, home to hundreds of flora and fauna species, and the museum complex is located in its forest area – the Dumbrava Forest.

The open-air complex consists of four ethnology and history museums, including the unmissable Museum of Traditional Folk Civilization, which showcases the way of life in different parts of Romania before the industrial era.

From houses and windmills to workshops and fairs, this place makes you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Bran Castle

Who hasn’t heard of the infamous Bran Castle ? Often known as ‘Dracula’s Castle,’ it is one of the biggest attractions in Romania. I have to admit that there was something creepy about this place, but I couldn’t leave Romania without visiting it.

When learning about its history, the actual connection between the castle itself, Dracula’s author (Bram Stoker), and his alleged inspiration (Vlad the Impaler) remains unclear, but everybody likes good old European myths and legends , which are the reason why it’s such a popular sight.

Transfagarasan Road

Contributed by Kat from Wandering Bird

If you’re heading to Romania, make sure you add the T ransfagarasan Road to your itinerary. This is the road made famous by the car show Top Gear in 2009 – and thousands visit every year to experience it for themselves.

The road winds through the Carpathian mountains and rises to 2042 meters at its highest point- making it the second-highest paved road in Romania.

The entire road is about 90 km long and takes a couple of hours to drive – unless you choose to stop for photos!

There aren’t many facilities along the way, so be sure to bring some food and drinks with you – a picnic is perfect and a great excuse to enjoy the incredible views.

If you’re not keen on driving in Romania, you can also book a Transfagarasan Road tour .

Sarmizegetusa Regia

Seeing photos of this intriguing place, you’ll probably think you’re looking at ancient ruins in South or Central America, but no – this surprising spot is one of the top sights in Romania!

Sarmizegetusa Regia was the capital of the ancient Dacian Empire, and the elaborate archaeological works that took place here revealed three areas – the fortifications, the sacred zone, and the residential zone.

Just one glance at them explains why this place is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and why you must visit this Romanian hidden gem.

Wooden Churches of Maramureș

The wooden churches of the region of Maramureș totally deserve to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Well, only eight out of almost a hundred surviving churches are listed by UNESCO, but they all should be appreciated.

Dating back to the 17th-19th centuries, they were created as a response to the Austrian-Hungarian Empire’s prohibition to build churches with durable materials like stone.

These uniquely beautiful structures will surely make you feel like you’ve been transported to the past, and you can find them in the villages of Barsana, Desesti, Surdesti, Ieud, Budesti, Rogoz, Plopis, and Poienile Izei.

Fortress of Suceava

If there aren’t enough medieval landmarks on this list, I’m adding the Fortress of Suceava, a 14th-century citadel that was built to defend Suceava, the capital city of the former Principality of Moldavia.

Today, it also houses a medieval history museum, including some amazing multimedia exhibits.

Baile Romane (Roman Baths) of Geoagiu-Bai

Do you want to visit a unique archeological site in Romania?

Head to the tiny village of Geoagiu-Bai to see its ancient thermal baths, preserved in almost the same shape as in antiquity. While there, be sure to also visit the Clocota Fall, a thermal waterfall created by 16 natural springs.

Rock Sculpture of Decebalus

If you love hidden gems and quirky places (like I do), this one will knock your socks off.

Imagine this: you’re taking a boat tour on the Danube, enjoying the views, and suddenly, there it is in front of you – a giant face carved in the rock overlooking the river.

So who is so important that people would make such an effort to commemorate him? Meet Decebalus, the last king of the ancient kingdom of Dacia, who fought against the Roman Empire multiple times and is considered a hero in Romania.

How to get there: This landmark is located in the Porțile de Fier Natural Park, where you’ll find many other points of interest and accommodation options. Not too far from the sculpture (on the road alongside the river), you’ll find quite a few companies that operate boat tours to see it.

Things to do in Romania - Rock of Decebalus

Fagaras Fortress

There’s no shortage of beautiful fortresses in Romania, and the Fagaras Fortress has to be one of the best-preserved.

Dating back to the 14th century, it was one of the strongest fortifications in Transylvania, and today, it houses the Fagaras County Museum.

Densus Church

Though you’ve probably never heard of the Densus Church (Biserica Sfântul Nicolae din Densuș), many consider it the oldest church in Romania (and Southeastern Europe!).

The stone structure standing today dates back to the 13th century, but it is believed that it was built on a 4th-century temple, making it a must-see place in Romania for history lovers.

Rupea Citadel

The Rupea Citadel is an extremely important historical landmark.

Not only was the area already inhabited by humans in the era of 5500 BC–3500 BC, but a local legend also says that the citadel is the place where the last Dacian King, Decebalus, took his own life instead of being captured by the Romans.

Today, this hilltop fortress is open to the public and occasionally even hosts different cultural events.

Feldioara Fortress

Built in the 13th century by the Teutonic Knights, this is the oldest fortress in Brasov County.

After a few years of restoration that was meant to preserve its remains and give it the shape and appearance it had in the 17th century, the fortress is now reopened to the public.

Curtea de Argeș Monastery

Located in one of the oldest towns in the region of Wallachia, this 16th-century cathedral is a Byzantine-style masterpiece and the burial place of many Romanian kings and queens.

With legends and myths regarding its construction and unique architectural style, it’s no wonder why it is one of the most famous, most important monasteries in Romania.

Horezu Monastery

Contributed by Stephanie from Sofia Adventures

An often overlooked place to visit in Romania is Horezu Monastery. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in southwest Romania in the southern Carpathian Mountains of the Walachia region.

Founded in the 17th century by Prince Constantin Brâncoveanu, it is one of the country’s best examples of the Brancovan style of monastic architecture.

Horezu is still a working monastery. The town is also famous for its Horezu pottery, which makes a great souvenir from Romania to bring home with you.

While there aren’t many tours that run here, you can easily get here by renting a car and driving or by hiring a private driver through a rideshare app. It makes a great day trip from Bucharest since getting here takes about three hours each way.

Cantacuzino Castle

There’s always room for one more castle on this Romania bucket list, and the Cantacuzino Castle should have it. This little beauty was built in the 20th century by the order of Prince George Grigore Cantacuzino and is now open to the public.

To tour the castle itself, you’ll need to join a guided tour in Romanian (English tours must be requested in advance), but you can also purchase a ticket to the castle’s park.

It includes access to places like the interior courtyard and hunting tower, and of course, you can also enjoy the castle’s photogenic exteriors.

Rasnov Fortress

Built by knights (how cool is that?), this 13th-century hilltop fortress was also a place of refuge for the local community, though it was abandoned in the 19th century.

Today, it’s restored, and you can visit the citadel’s remains as well as a small museum.

Do you love knight history? You should visit Malta and Portugal !

Merry Cemetery

Visiting a cemetery doesn’t sound particularly tempting, I know. But some cemeteries around the world have legitimately become highly-visited tourist attractions.

In Romania, close to the border with Ukraine, you’ll find the Merry Cemetery (Cimitirul Vesel), known for its colorful tombstones created by the artist Ioan Stan Patras.

It may sound weird to us, but it’s assumed that the unusual vividness of this place comes from the Dacian belief that death is a joyful moment because the soul continues on to find a better life.

Want to see more of Europe’s underrated countries? Here are the best cities to visit in Poland and Hungary !

Best Places to Visit in Romania: Cities, Towns, and Villages

The Romanian capital holds a special place in my heart because that’s where my grandfather was born. I have to admit that I don’t think it’s the highlight of this list, but it’s still worth spending 2 or 3 days in Bucharest .

Planning your itinerary, don’t miss landmarks like the Palace of the Parliament (an architectural masterpiece and the second-largest administrative building in the world after the Pentagon), the Romanian Athenaeum, and the National Museum of Art of Romania.

For something more relaxing, stroll around the old town, grab a drink at a rooftop bar, or wander through beautiful parks like Herăstrău Park and Cișmigiu Park.

There’s plenty more to see and do, including enjoying Bucharest’s nightlife and culinary scenes, so this is just a taste of what this city has to offer.

If it’s not the first post you’re reading here, you probably already know how much I love roaming the streets of beautiful towns, and medieval Sibiu is one of them.

The colorful buildings of the old town (most of which were built by German settlers), the iconic eye-shaped dormers on their roofs (also called the Eyes of Sibiu), the little cozy cafes, and the medieval vibe – doesn’t that sound dreamy?

If you want to go sightseeing in Romania’s cutest town, some of its points of interest include the 14th-century Sibiu Lutheran Cathedral, the Altemberger House (Sibiu History Museum), the Potter’s Tower, and the Brukenthal National Museum (locates in Piata Mare, one of the prettiest European squares ) .

Contributed by Arnav from Eat | Travel | Live | Repeat

Frequently referred to as ‘Little Vienna ‘, Timișoara is known for its secessionist architecture. It is the country’s most cosmopolitan city, as well as the third-largest city and the social and cultural capital of Romania .

Fun Fact – it was in Timișoara, that the Romanian Revolution of 1989 took birth, which ultimately ended Ceauşescu’s dictatorship, making Timisoara quite an important city in Romania’s history.

When it comes to recommending things to do in Timisoara, the majority of attractions are found in the Old Town.

Iconic sights and attractions in Timisoara such as the Romanian Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral, Opera House, Strada Alba Iulia (Umbrella Street), the Roman Catholic Cathedral, and Piata Libertatii – all will be covered along if one starts at Piata Victoriei and walks all the way to Piata Unirii.

It’s no wonder why Brasov is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Romania.

With a mix of architectural styles, a well-preserved fortification system, and the fact that it was founded by knights – who can resist such a fascinating place?

Apart from the fortified medieval towers, gates, and bastions, you should also check out Council Square, the Black Church, Rope Street (the narrowest street in Romania), the Beth Israel Synagogue, and the Brasov History Museum.

If you want to visit in winter, the nearby Poiana Brașov is a highly popular ski resort.

If you’re looking for an offbeat weekend getaway in Europe, Craiova can be a great option. It is not a super touristy city, yet it offers enough to fill up a laid-back two-day itinerary.

Its must-see spots are the Madona Dudu Church, the Cosuna Monastery, the Craiova Art Museum, the Oltenia Museum, the Botanical Garden, and the Nicolae Romanescu Park, but you can also take a day trip to the city of Targu Jiu.

Sinaia (Peles Castle)

The town of Sinaia is mostly known for the Peles Castle, an architectural stunner, which was a royal summer residence up until 1947. A few fun facts about it:

It was the first European castle to have electricity.
It has 30 bathrooms (because why not?).
It houses a collection of thousands of pieces like paintings, armors, porcelain, tapestries, and more.

But this little beauty is not the only building worth seeing in Sinaia. Be sure to also check out the Pelisor Castle, the Sinaia Monastery, the Stirbey Castle, the Sinaia Casino, and the St. Elias Church.

If you’re an architecture lover, you’ll be gawking at these buildings for hours.

Another medieval city waiting to be explored by you is Sighisoara. A few fun facts about it:

The origins of Sighisoara go back to Roman times.
Thanks to its intact nine-tower citadel, its old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It’s the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler (aka the possible inspiration for Dracula).

Apart from the citadel’s towers and Vlad’s birth house, there are plenty of things to see in Sighisoara like the Venetian House, the Stag House, the wooden Scholars’ Stairs, many beautiful churches, and of course – the old town’s enchanting colorful streets.

Cluj-Napoca

Contributed by Cass from Cassie the Hag

Cluj-Napoca is the most populous city in Romania. It has an aesthetic that makes itself known as both a lively, university city and a former medieval old town filled with beautiful historic buildings, including many houses painted in bright colors.

This city has trendy cafes and bars a stone’s throw away from the gothic architecture, which the Transylvania region , for which Cluj-Napoca is the unofficial capital, is most famous. St Michael’s Church and the Reformed Church are impressive examples.

Alongside a great foodie scene and nightlife, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Cluj-Napoca . There’s a large variety of museums and gardens all being walking distance from each other.

Popular day trips include castle and fortress tours, the Turda Gorge, and the unique underground amusement park at Turda Salt Mine.

Targu Mures

The underrated Targu Mures is one of the best cities to visit in Romania and should not be overlooked.

You’d be surprised to know that almost half of its population is actually Hungarian and that it’s home to some of Romania’s most amazing landmarks.

These include a medieval fortress, the impressive Status Quo Synagogue, churches and museums, and the Culture Palace, a stunning early-20th-century building (that should be seen on the inside as well).

Contributed by Mario from Rest and Recuperation

There is one place that I really loved during my trip to Romania: Viscri .

This little village in the middle of Transylvania is out of the usual tourist routes because you need to take a long detour from the main attractions (I highly suggest renting a car to get there).

The region is famous for Dracula, of course, but also for its Saxon villages and their stunning fortified medieval churches.

Viscri is probably the most beautiful for its location, lost between fields. The village is very small and there are almost no cars, as most people get around with horse carts.

If you want to see more UNESCO listed fortified churches in Transylvania, head to the villages of Biertan, Calnic, Dârjiu, Prejmer, Saschiz, and Valea Viilor.

Contributed by Anda from Travel for a while

Alba Iulia is one of the oldest settlements in Transylvania. A Dacic fort existed here even before the Romans conquered the region. During the Roman occupation, they extended the fort to a Roman Castrum and named it Apulum.

Modern Alba Iulia played a major role in the Romanian Union of 1918. The final act of Transylvania’s unification with the rest of Romania happened in Alba Iulia in 1918. You can now visit Union Hall, where the final vote took place.

Other places you need to visit are the 18th-century Alba Carolina Fortress and the Coronation Cathedral, where King Ferdinand and Queen Mary were sworn in as monarchs in 1922.

The star-shaped citadel is also a must-see. It features Baroque gates, museums, bastions, and restaurants (my favorites are the bronze statues). Also, don’t miss the guard-change ceremony at 11:50 AM every day.

Contributed by Kami from My Wanderlust

Located right at the border with Hungary, Oradea is like a hidden gem of Romania. The city was founded in the 11th century and for years has been an important center in the region. At some point, Oradea was even a burial place for Hungarian kings!

The biggest development of the city took place in the 18th century, and that’s when most of the buildings you can admire now were built.

Oradea is a great place for fans of art nouveau architecture. You can find many stunning buildings, but the most impressive one is the “Vulturul Negru” Palace (“Black Eagle” Complex) from the beginning of the 20th century with two symmetrical parts and a beautiful passage in the middle.

The whole center of Oradea is such a lovely place and wandering around is pure pleasure.

Contributed by Arabela from The Spicy Travel Girl

The combination of a romantic cityscape full of ancient Roman relics and a beautiful coastline with clear water and a vibrant party scene makes Constanța a perfect Romanian destination for couples, solo travelers , and families alike.

Enjoy a romantic evening strolling through the old city center and watching the sunset from the minaret of the Carol I Mosque or spend a fun day swimming in the Black Sea and dancing the night away in the Mamaia Beach Promenade.

Besides all that, you can enjoy delicious Romanian cuisine in traditional restaurants, Autoservire canteens, or through inexpensive street food stalls right next to the water.

For history buffs, Constanța not only houses impressive Roman mosaics and other ruins but was also the very place in the Roman Empire where the poet Ovid spent his last days. Doesn’t that make it even more romantic?

Last but not least, Constanța is also a great base to explore other coastal towns and villages in the area like Vama Veche, Mangalia, and Neptun.

Székelyudvarhely (RO: Odorheiul Secuiesc)

Contributed by Helga from ShegoWandering

Székelyudvarhely is one of the most charming towns at the feet of the mountains of the Eastern Carpathians.

The town is mostly populated by Hungarian Székelys, who have a long history in the area. The town is famous for its charm, great traditional restaurants, and the beautiful nature surrounding it.

While here, you must see the 300+ years old churches, such as the Protestant church on the north side of the town center.

Visit the park of statues on the east side, where you’ll see sculptures of all the famous figures from Hungarian history, as well as the Catholic and Protestant schools which have lovely architecture!

Take a walk in the town center and admire the rose gardens, then, make sure you visit the famous Alexandra pastry shop! It’s the best in the region! Outside the town, visit Szejke, with the must-see 14 gates going up on the hill!

Contributed by Sean from Living Out Lau

One of the most charming features of Romania is its wide stretches of pristine countryside and rustic traditional villages.

Because of the lack of transportation in these areas, most travelers don’t get to see the beauty of these places unless they are going on a Romania road trip .

One of the most idyllic villages is Rimetea, a small hamlet of about 1000 inhabitants located an hour away from Cluj-Napoca, the unofficial capital city of Transylvania. Because of almost 1000 years of Hungarian rule, most of the villagers are still Hungarian and speak Hungarian.

Strolling on the gravel-stoned roads and exploring the simple way of life is a great experience in Rimetea.

Another popular activity is hiking the Piatra Secuiului – at 480 meters above the town, the views up there are surely breathtaking!

If you’re already road-tripping through the region of Maramureș, add a short stop at Baia Mare to your itinerary.

This city has been an important mining center for thousands of years, and you can visit the Museum of Mineralogy and marvel at its unique mineral collection.

Although Medias is the second-largest city in Sibiu county, it seems a lot more like a medieval village. It’s home to one of the best-preserved historical centers in the country and is such an enchanting place, yet you’re likely to be the only tourist there.

It’s definitely worth dedicating a few hours to explore its old town and see the 15th-century St. Margaret’s Church, as well as the fortified Trumpeters’ Tower.

Best Places in Romania for Nature Lovers

Ceahlău national park.

Contributed by Audrey from That Backpacker

Ceahlău National Park is a hiker’s paradise! Located in Neamt County in Romania’s Eastern Carpathians, this park is bounded by Lake Bicaz to the east and the Bicaz River to the south.

What makes this place a must-visit destination in Romania is its natural beauty. Picture dense forests that offer a cool canopy to hike under, fossil limestone peaks that tower on the horizon, and rolling clouds that play hide-and-seek, surprising you with majestic vistas when they finally blow over.

This group of mountains known as Ceahlău Massif is often nicknamed the Mount Olympus of Romania, and there are ancient legends of Dacian gods that trace their origins thousands of years back to these very mountains.

The two main peaks in the Ceahlău National Park are Ocolaşul Mare (1907m) and Toaca (1904m).

For anyone looking to spend the night atop the mountain, there is a hikers’ cabin (Cabana Dochia) and a campsite (Camping Ceahlău). If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, this is a destination you won’t want to miss in Romania!

Piatra Craiului National Park

Contributed by Daniela from Grumpy Camel

Romania’s Carpathian Mountains are possibly Europe’s last true wilderness. The mountain range is home to ancient unspoiled forests, as well as several wildlife species, including brown bears, wolves, and lynx.

If you want to go hiking in Romania , spend a few days exploring Piatra Craiului National Park in Transylvania.

Forming part of the Southern Carpathians, the park offers several hiking trails through remote mountain villages and deep gorges, with views of sweeping meadows and an impressive limestone ridge that stretches for over 15 miles and rises up to a height of 6560 feet.

The town of Zarnesti is a great base if you want to hike Piatra Craiului. Make sure you hire an experienced guide, as the park is inhabited by brown bears and it’s easy to get disoriented in bad weather.

There are several attractions close by, including Libearty Bear Sanctuary, Bran Castle, and the colorful city of Brasov.

Danube Delta

Danube Delta – Europe’s second-largest river delta, is one of Romania’s hidden gems.

After meandering through 10 countries, the Danube River splits into three main distributaries in the delta, namely Chilia (120 km long), Sulina (64 km long), and Sfântul Gheorghe (70 km long), before emptying into the Black Sea.

Fun Fact – the Danube Delta, which is home to 250+ bird species, is the third-largest biodiversity hotspot in the world and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site back in 1991.

I highly recommend you spend 2-3 days in the Danube Delta on your next trip to Romania, visit during the summer months, and go on a bird-watching boat trip.

If you’re looking for accommodations, one of the best places to stay during your weekend in the Danube Delta is Green Village Resort – a luxurious Oasis surrounded by nature.

Trovanti Museum Natural Reserve

Romania is home to some pretty curious places, and the Trovanti Museum Natural Reserve (Muzeul Trovanților) is definitely one of them.

Home to unusual geological formations, also known as the “growing stones,” this is where you’ll find rocks that literally get bigger with time. Bizarrely resembling the trolls from Frozen, you don’t want to miss this quirky natural phenomenon.

Sphinx Natural Monument

Situated in the Bucegi Natural Park (and accessed with the Busteni Cable Car), the Sphinx is one of the most unique rock formations in Romania.

You can guess that the name derives from its resemblance to the Great Sphinx of Egypt, though it’s not certain whether it was created naturally or by humans.

Along with the adjacent Babele rock formation, it is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Romania, and it’s even said that it has “a special mysterious energy.”

Situated in the Făgăraș Mountains, this glacier lake and its surroundings provide some of the most gorgeous natural landscapes in Romania.

You can simply enjoy the views or hike to either Balea Waterfall or Capra Lake. If you also want to wake up to this scenery, book a night at one of the chalets sitting on the lake.

How to get there: I visited it in summer when it was accessible by car. In winter, this area becomes a paradise for skiers, but it is only reachable by cable car or a day tour .

Berca Mud Volcanoes Reserve

Lunar landscapes and bubbling mud volcanoes? Are you sure this is Romania?

Probably one of the most unusual natural phenomena you’ll see in the continent of Europe, it derives from gas erupting through salty mud, creating little volcano-shaped natural structures.

If you’re looking for out-of-this-world scenery and love offbeat gems, this reservation, which is reachable by car, must be on your itinerary.

Tip: Be sure to bring appropriate footwear and avoid visiting on rainy days.

Nerei-BeușNița Ravine National Park

For relatively easy (yet not necessarily short) hikes, add this national park to your bucket list.

Here, you’ll find spectacular waterfalls (like Bigar, Vaioaga, and Beusnita), caves, gorges, and the famous turquoise Devil’s Lake and Ochiul Beiului Lake.

You can check out the full list of hikes on the park’s official website (use Google Translate).

Contributed by Stella Jane from Around the World in 24 Hours

Tulcea, Romania is one of the best places to visit if you want to truly appreciate Romania’s natural beauty. That’s because Tulcea is the perfect base for exploring the extraordinary Danube Delta.

Several tour companies leave from the Tulcea Harbour and take visitors on either all-day or half-day boat trips around the Danube Delta. This is one of the most biodiverse regions in the entire world, and you can see many different unusual birds and over 1000 plant types here.

Back in Tulcea, you can also learn more about the Danube Delta by visiting the Danube Delta Eco-Tourism Museum Center, which includes a fascinating aquarium.

By the end of your trip, you’ll be an expert on the Danube Delta. Tulcea is about 5 hours away from Bucharest by either bus or train.

Retezat National Park

With mountainous landscapes dotted with dozens of glacial lakes, the Retezat National Park is an avid hiker’s heaven. It’s also home to thousands of flora and fauna species and is a UNESCO Reserve of the Biosphere.

Some of its most popular hikes are Bucura Lake, Retezat Peak, Peleaga Peak, and Păpușa Peak, but I’d say this is a destination for adventurers rather than newbie hikers, and a trip to this remote area requires careful planning.

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About Or Amir

Hey, I'm Or! I'm a passionate traveler with a severe coffee, chocolate, and pastry addiction (or any other carb for that matter). I'm always planning my next trip to Spain, Italy, or any other country in Europe, and my goal is to help you make the most of each destination.

18 thoughts on “50 Best Places to Visit in Romania, Europe’s Underrated Gem”

We spent a week in Romania about 6 years ago. I am itching to go back. It was truly amazing. One thing we did, which I didn’t see mentioned was the “Seven Ladders Canyon”. Anyone with a little adventure would spend a day in the forest to accomplish this task. At the time, we took 21 Zip Lines back down the mountain – it was AMAZING! So memorable. Some day we will return to see this spectacular Country! Thanks for the write-up!

Thanks for the recommendation!

As a local, my top 3 places in Romania are Transylvania, the Carpathian mountains and the Danube’s Delta. And Sibiu is my city of choice since I live there 🙂

I loved Transylvania too 🙂

Ahhh! I made it to a few of these – Brasov, Peles Castle, and Bran Castle, but I want to go to all of them! Romania is definitely way underrated.

Yeah, there’s a lot more to it than the popular touristic spots 🙂

Wow! Romania looks incredible. I’ve been interested in visiting for a while but other than Bucharest I don’t know very much about the country. I’m definitely going to check out some of these places when I eventually get around to planning a trip there in the future though. The national parks in particular look incredible! Thanks for sharing this.

I’m happy this post inspired you, Stuart! I love introducing new places to others, and I hope you get to visit soon!

You shared so many interesting places! I would love to see all those cool and beautiful spots in Romania!

Thanks, Ophelie! TBH, while creating this post, I myself felt the urge to go back to Romania – it’s really beautiful and special!

The most comprehensive Romania bucket list on the internet!

Aww, thank you, Arabela! That was the goal 🙂

I was in Romania just over a year ago a d you brought back some wonderful memories. Loved your photos too. Thanks for the inspiration, Or! 🙂

Always happy to inspire others 🙂 Thanks for reading!

Romania seriously looks like my fairytale dream! Love this comprehensive post – just pinned it for future inspiration!

It’s filled with fairytale places, so it’s the perfect destination for you, Elena 🙂

Amazing guide, love the detail! I visited just before covid and really loved it, esp Peles Castle. But it seems there is so much more to see!

There’s plenty to see 🙂 I feel like even this list might not be long enough 😛

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25 Best Places to Visit in Romania

Romania is one of those European countries that still don’t get as much attention as they should yet it is a wonderful destination to travel to. The list of amazing places to visit in Romania is really long and diverse. You will find there beautiful cities and old towns, historical UNESCO-listed monasteries, and some spectacular wonders of nature. Romania really has it all!

I remember the first time I went to visit Romania, back in 2010. I didn’t know many people who have ventured to this amazing country and I’m not going to lie, I was a bit anxious at first as I didn’t know what to expect (I was traveling solo then and it was the first country in Eastern Europe that I visited).

As it quickly turned out there was nothing to worry about and Romania exceeded my expectations. This is such a wonderful country and everyone can find something interesting there.

Since my first trip, I’ve returned there a few more times, discovering new Romania places to visit and sometimes returning to those I’ve already known. And each time I enjoyed the country more and more, finding even more great things to see in Romania!

Below you can find an overview of the best places to visit in Romania. I haven’t been to all of them myself yet so I asked a few fellow travel bloggers to suggest their favorite Romania tourist attractions too so you can have a more comprehensive list. Hopefully, it will be useful when you plan your own trip to Romania soon!

Planning a trip to Romania?

Here are the services I always use and personally recommend:

Accommodation : I always book a place to stay on Booking.com
Tours: when I decide to go on a tour I use either Viator or Get Your Guide .
For transportation and booking tickets online , I usually use 12Go that works in Romania, too
Looking for the airport pickup ? Check Welcome Pickups!
If you plan to rent a car during your trip to Romania check Discover Cars to compare prices and find the best deals
Get insured for your trip to Romania with SafetyWing

Table of Contents

Places to visit in Romania

So, without any further ado, here are the best and most beautiful places in Romania! The list is in no particular order and at the end you will find a map with all these Romania must-see marked.

Bucharest , the capital and the largest city of Romania, doesn’t get as much praise as it should and is always in the shadow of more popular Romania tourist places. But the city is actually really interesting, diverse and full of attractions for each taste.

The city was founded in the 14th century but became the capital of Romania in 1862. That’s also when the place got its elegant look, often being called “the little Paris”.

Unfortunately, during WW2 and Ceaușescu’s rule many of the buildings and the old town were destroyed and today you can see a peculiar (and often beautiful) mix of architecture in Bucharest. Be sure to visit some interiors too (like the Romanian Athenaeum – one of the best-hidden gems in the city, or Cărturești Carusel – one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world).

Bucharest is also home to the Romanian Palace of the Parliament – the World’s largest civilian building with an administrative function. While its history is rather dark it can also impress with its grandness.

The Old Town is small but rather charming with plenty of cafes, restaurants, and bars that are perfect to hang out until late-night hours. Fans of alternative activities should find Bucharest interesting too as there is lots of street art and cool spots around.

Transfagarasan Highway

Recommended by Sean from LivingOutLau

If you are looking for epic places to visit in Romania, you cannot miss the famous Transfagarasan Highway. Deemed as the best driving road in the world by the TV series Top Gear, visiting it is a must on any Romania itinerary.

Also known as the DN7C, the Transfagarasan Highway traverses through the southern parts of the Carpathian Mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding alpines.

At the highest point of the Transfagarsan Highway is the breathtaking Balea Lake, a glacial lake with possibly the clearest water in Romania. Here you will also find street vendors selling traditional Romanian crafts and food, a viewpoint, and the famous ice hotel.

Though visitors can get tours to Transfagarasan Highway, we recommend renting a car and doing a Romania road trip . Driving on the curvy roads and feeling the mountain breeze on the Transfagarasan Road is a unique experience only a road trip can give you.

Otherwise, you can find tours to Transfagarasan Highway from Sibiu.

Recommended by Anda from Travel for a while

Though it’s not quite a popular tourist destination, Alba Iulia should definitely be on your Romanian itinerary. One day in the city is enough to explore the beautiful star-shaped citadel, the main attraction in Alba Iulia. The citadel is built on the site of the largest city in Roman Dacia, Apulum, where the XIII Gemina Legion was stationed.

Many centuries later, Alba Iulia Citadel was also the place where the Romanian Union was agreed upon in 1918. It also hosted the coronation ceremony of King Ferdinand and Queen Mary a few years later.

Today, Alba Iulia Citadel is a great place to visit and discover. You can see the restored city gates, the massive city walls, the museums, and the beautiful cathedrals. During the warm months, May to October, there’s a Guard Change Ceremony every day at noon.

The citadel is free to visit, with only a small charge for the museums. It is well worth a detour on your way to Sibiu, or to Corvin Castle in Hunedoara.

Find the accommodation in Alba Iulia here.

Recommended by Lina from BucketListPlaces.com

A hidden gem that should be put on any traveler’s bucket list , only those in the know are lucky enough to visit, Viscri. This stunning fortified village has an incredible walled castle and historical church that can be explored from top to bottom.

And you should certainly climb to the top as the views are breathtaking from there. Look out into the green valley and majestic hills in your surroundings.

But the walled village and church isn’t the only reason to visit Viscri. Due to restrictions, tourists aren’t allowed to park on the street closest to the church.

Instead, you park in a tourist lot and proceed to walk 5-10 minutes to the church through beautiful farm country where flowers bloom and birds cheer you in your commute. The walk there is a joy in and of itself.

After visiting the walled village, stroll around the town and enjoy some local food.

The Fortified Church of Agârbiciu

Recommended by Corinne of Reflections Enroute

We took an amazing train trip through Eastern Europe , and one of our best stops was to see the fortified churches in Transylvania . Even though only seven are listed on the UNESCO World Heritage list, there are many more.

German Saxons moved into Romania in the 13th and 14th centuries and stayed until communist Romania became too dangerous, building these churches. The reason they built fortified churches is was for protection against invading Mongols and Turks.

The church we visited was the one in Agârbiciu. We stopped because there was a tourist bus in the driveway. As it turns out, the bus was filled with the Saxon Germans who had previously lived in the town, worshipped at the church, and then escaped back to Germany during a turbulent time in Romania’s history.

All of the fortified churches have similar characteristics, and most of them have been adopted by previous residents to maintain their glory. We loved receiving a first-hand account of the Saxon Germans’ previous lives in Romania, their escape, and their passion to renovate the fortified churches.

Cluj-Napoca

Cluj-Napoca , the capital of Transylvania, is often a getaway to this fascinating region yet not many people actually stay in the city to see what it has to offer. But Cluj-Napoca is a really interesting place and it’s worth spending there a day or two.

Even if the city has over 300.000 inhabitants it feels like a calm place with a vibrant atmosphere and a wonderful cafe culture (this is thanks to the large student community). The center is rather small but packed with beautiful architecture from the turn of the 19th and 20th centuries.

Right in the heart of the city is Piața Unirii – the Union Square – where you will find St. Michael’s Church (probably the most impressive Gothic churches in Transylvania), the National Art Museum, and the statue of Matthias Corvinus.

To get the best view of the city head to Cetățuia Park from where you can enjoy a beautiful panorama of Cluj-Napoca and beyond.

Read more about Cluj-Napoca in my article “9 Great Things to Do in Cluj-Napoca, the Vibrant City in Romania”.

Find the accommodation in Cluj here.

Check the best Cluj-Napoca tours here.

Located near the border with Serbia , Timisoara is a wonderful and beautiful city to visit in Romania.

It dates back to the 13th century but the city flourished under Austria-Hungary. That’s when many of the impressive art-nouveau buildings were built, shaping the face of the city. Timisoara is also one of the most important places in the current Romanian history as that’s where the 1989 revolution has started that eventually led to the fall of communism in the country.

Today this is a wonderful and vibrant city with a multicultural legacy that you can find all over the place. The best thing to do in Timisoara is to wander around and enjoy the city with all its charms and enjoy its atmosphere.

Most of the attractions are located in the center focused around three squares: Victoriei, Libertății, and Unirii (the last one being the prettiest of them all) but if you will wander outside the center you will find some lovely places too, like the Fabric district.

Read more about Timisoara in my article “Why you should visit Timisoara, Romania”.

Find the accommodation in Timisoara here .

See the best Timisoara tours here.

Corvin Castle

Recommended by Maria & Katerina from It’s All Trip To Me

The Gothic dream that is Corvin Castle is among the largest castles in Europe and one of the best castles to visit in Romania . Situated in the outskirts of industrial Hunedoara, Corvin Castle feels like a fairytale-like remnant of times gone contrasting to a dull concrete jungle.

Corvin Castle enjoys an utterly picturesque location. Built atop a rock near the Zlasti River and adorned with a dramatic drawbridge that any Hollywood producer would envy, the castle is a sight for sore eyes. Upon entering, you’ll be taken aback by the splendor of its massive courtyard and the elegance of its high-ceilinged rooms.

The best areas to check out inside Corvin Castle are the Knights’ Hall, the infamous well, and the gruesome bear pit. There are many informative signs scattered around the castle that narrate its history and legends.

Apart from being one of the most popular places to visit in Romania, Corvin Castle is so special that it’s often chosen to host special events and celebrations or even weddings and other themed photoshoots.

Danube Boilers Gorge

Recommended by Raluca from Travel With A Spin

The largest and oldest canyon made by a river in Europe was created by the Danube as it makes its way between the Carpathians and the Balkans .

But the most impressive part of it is the Gorges. Here the mighty river really struggled to pierce the rocks. The high stone walls are only 230 meters apart. Due to the speed of the water, before the 1970s, strong currents formed and the river seemed to be boiling. This made navigation difficult and brought the area the nickname “Danube boilers”.

After the construction of the Iron Gates hydroelectric stations, the 150 km canyon was transformed into a huge lake. Villages and monuments were flooded and the entire ecosystem changed. But the Gorges kept its picturesqueness and wilderness. The abundance of attractions and the hospitality of the locals turn it into an ideal holiday spot.

The best thing to do is a boat trip. It passes by Mraconia Monastery, which seems to be clinging off a rock, two caves, the almost 2000 years old Tabula Traiana, which commemorates the Roman Empire’s victories over the Dacian Kingdom and the Romanian version of Mount Rushmore, the largest stone statue in Europe of the Dacian king Decebalus.

Oradea , located right at the border with Hungary , is one of those hidden gems of Romania that doesn’t get many visitors but it should. It was founded in the 11th century and has been a significant center in the region and even a burial place for Hungarian kings.

The city developed in the 18th century and many of the interesting and eye-catching buildings you can see today date back to that time. But the biggest attraction of Oradea is its art-nouveau architecture and every fan of this style will be in surely impressed with the city.

Of all the great buildings you can find there the most amazing one is the “Vulturul Negru” Palace (“Black Eagle” Complex), built at the beginning of the 20th century with two symmetrical parts and a beautiful passage in the middle.

Since Oradea was a multicultural city in the past you will find plenty of traces of its legacy all over the place. Overall, it is a very charming and pleasant city that you should consider when visiting Romania.

Read more about Oradea in my article “25 Pictures That Will Inspire You To Visit Oradea, Romania”.

Find the accommodation in Oradea here.

See the best Oradea tours here.

Recommended by Kristin from Adventures with Ensuite

A trip to Maramures feels like going back in time. Village homes are fronted by beautifully-carved wooden gates and it is common to meet a horse-drawn cart on the road.

In addition to seeing the traditional agricultural lifestyle, the main reason to visit Maramures is its wooden churches. In the 14th century, locals were not allowed to use stone for building so they built their churches using wood.

Eight of these churches are UNESCO listed and two which you shouldn’t miss are Barsana and Surdesti. Most are open to tourists although you might need to hunt down the attendant who has the key. So few people visit the area the attendants might be at home having naps!

Being located on the border with Hungary and Ukraine , getting to Maramures is time-consuming by public transport and traveling around the area is even more difficult. A rental car is the best option.

Winters are cold with lots of snow. May to September have the most comfortable temperatures and best driving conditions for a visit.

Merry Cemetery

Recommended by Jade of Traveling Transylvania

Cimitriul Vesel (the Merry Cemetery) in Săpânța, Romania is one of the country’s most prized treasures. It’s a shining example of the Romanian sense of humor and proves to its visitors that death can, in fact, have a lighter side.

Situated just behind the Church of the Assumption, Cimitriul Vesel is located in the small village of Săpânța in northern Romania. So, what makes Cimitriul Vesel so special?

In lieu of somber, austere grave markers, Cimitriul Vesel is filled with colorful, hand-painted carved crosses, each adorned with lively poetry inspired by the deceased. Some of the poetry is funny, some is whimsical, some is heartwarming – you’ll find it all.

This tradition began in the 1930s and has continued into future generations of cross painters. The verses on each cross may seem a touch shocking, disclosing infidelities, indiscretions, and a penchant for alcohol. But, it’s the norm in Săpânța, a small town where everyone knows everyone’s business anyhow.

Can’t read Romanian? No problem. In addition to the verse, there is an accompanying painted scene on the crosses, that gives a remarkably clear conveyance of the words.

To reach Săpânța, you can take a train from either Baia Mare or Satu Mare.

Sovata & the Salt Region

Recommended by Megs from Packing up the Pieces

Sovata is nestled picturesquely in the Carpathian Mountains. This lovely city is the gateway to the overlooked salt region of Romania.

In Sovata, take a stroll through Bear Lake Natural Reserve, which boasts natural curative pools. In fact, the actual Bear Lake is Europe’s largest heliothermal salt lake.

In the reserve, find free mud pools, where you can lather on the gooey mud, bake it to your skin, and rinse off in one of the free salt lakes. There’s also a wide range of thermal pools scattered all throughout the town.

If relaxing isn’t your thing, Sovata has a colorful farmers’ market, primitive hiking trails, and is easy to day trip to the nearby village of Praid.

Praid is known for its underground salt mine, which is sought-out by those seeking the healing properties from the salt. These days, the Praid Salt Mine feels like a full-blown attraction with a church, ropes course, ping-pong tables, restaurants, and a wine shop.

Another lovely natural gem in Praid is the Salt Hill Nature Reserve, which has hiking trails, mud baths, and fascinating information boards on all things salt.

Sovata is the perfect city to relax and explore the untouched salt region of Romania.

Find the accommodation in Sovata here.

The Monasteries of Bucovina

Recommended by Elisa from World in Paris

The Monasteries of Bucovina are some of Romania’s most spectacular sites. These stunning medieval monasteries are located in Moldavia, a historical region in Western Romania, on the Carpathians’ northern slopes, and they were built between the 15th and 17th centuries.

The Monasteries of Bucovina are well-known for their beautiful frescoes depicting different religious scenes. These paintings are located inside the church but also on the external walls. The ensemble of Monasteries of Bucovina is listed as UNESCO World Heritage.

The best way to explore the Bucovina Monasteries is by car as public transportation in this area is scarce. You can visit Moldavia as part of a Romania road trip or rent a car for one day or two from Bucharest or Brasov.

There are many monasteries to visit in this area. The list of most popular monasteries includes Moldovita, Dragomirna, Sucevita, Voronet, Humor, and Putna. Each monastery has information panels so you can learn more about the monastery’s history and the different paintings.

Recommended by Ellis from Backpack Adventures

Iasi is the second-largest city in Romania. It is located in the northeastern part of the country, close to the border with Moldova.

This area of Romania sees few visitors and Iasi is a city that is often overlooked by travelers. A pity, because Iasi has a lot to offer and is considered to be the historical capital of Romania.

Iasi has a long history of being the academic and cultural center of the region. In the 16th century, it was the capital of Moldova and many churches and monasteries were built in Iasi. Some of the most beautiful churches still stand strong and have beautiful frescoes inside

The 19th century was another important era for Iasi. It was when the first university in Romania opened its doors in Iasi. In the communist era, Iasi developed into an important industrial center, and nowadays it is once more a modern and young student city.

As a result, Iasi is a beautiful mix of different styles with lots of historical landmarks. From medieval churches to neoclassical and baroque buildings to the communist era brutalist architecture. The biggest attraction is the impressive Palace of culture.

Iasi is also a very green city with lots of parks and the oldest botanical garden in Romania. This makes it a very pleasant city to explore. There is always a peaceful place to relax or a trendy cafe nearby.

Find the accommodation in Iasi here.

See the best Iasi tours here.

The Clay Castle in the Fairies’ Valley

Recommended by Violeta Matei of Bucharest Inside Out

Recommended by Rich from RJOnTour

The city of Constanta is located on the Black Sea coast in the east of Romania. Constanta is an interesting city, in fact, it is the oldest still inhabited city in the country dating back to 600 BC.

The city has lots of things to see including historical buildings, a beautiful port, and long sandy beaches extending to Mamaia. Dining out in the city has many options including traditional Romanian food, Turkish, Greek, and more.

The centerpiece of the city is the art nouveau casino that sits on the coast, a stunning building. One of the most interesting buildings is the Cathedral which has some very special decorations, the grounds contain ruins of the Roman city of Tomis.

For history buffs, there are many museums in Constanta, the most significant being the Museum of National History and Archeology. The town has many influences from the past and its architecture reflects this.

To summarise there are lots of things to see in Constanta , including beaches for relaxing and many fun activities to enjoy.

Find the accommodation in Constanta here.

Check the best Constanta tours here.

Recommended by Stella Jane from Around the World in 24 Hours

Tulcea, a port city in Eastern Romania, is famous for its absolutely stunning natural setting. It is located right on the Danube River, just a short boat trip away from the world-famous Danube Delta.

On one of the many day trip cruises of the Danube Delta that leave from Tulcea, travelers will have the opportunity to see birds and other flora and fauna that don’t exist anywhere else in the world.

They can also visit the charming villages of the Danube Delta, such as Mila 23, and taste the local cuisine, which includes dishes like mamaliga (cornmeal porridge) and fresh catfish.

Tulcea itself is worth exploring for its interesting history and museums. The most popular museum in Tulcea is probably the Danube Delta Museum.

Here visitors can learn about the history of this area and why it’s so important to preserve its natural beauty. They can also explore the aquarium inside the museum which hosts fish from both the Danube Delta and all over the world.

In the evening, be sure to enjoy the sun setting over the Danube River. The best vantage point is from the Independence Monument, on a hill in the northeast of Tulcea.

Find the accommodation in Tulcea here.

See the best Danube Delta tours here.

Recommended by Jade from The Migrant Yogi

Vama Veche is a tiny village on Romania’s Black Sea coast, just adjacent to the Bulgarian border. What was once an uneventful fishing village has transformed into Romania’s premier seaside party destination.

Vama Veche has always catered to alternative crowds, such as hippies, intellectuals, punks, and artists – and today is no exception. The village blossomed when professors from Cluj-Napoca vacationed there, and it gradually became a safe haven for free thinkers and expression of thought.

When the bars close, the party moves to the beach, where it’s a rite of passage to stay up till sunrise. This is a beautiful experience to have in Vama Veche, regardless of whether or not you partake in the partying!

There’s more to Vama Veche than a good party, however. There are a number of stalls selling handcrafted goods, watersports, and diving all provide for a family-friendly atmosphere, as well.

Take a walk (or a taxi) down to 2 Mai, a neighboring village with slightly different vibes. Or, head to the border of Bulgaria and walk along the Bulgarian shore – it’s a short walk, but there are no Bulgarian towns or villages nearby.

Map of the best places to visit in Romania

To make it easier to plan your trip to Romania, here is a map of all the amazing Romania highlights mentioned above.

Travel Resources

Below you can find the brands I trust and use when planning trips:

You can find the best accommodation options at Booking . They have many discounts and excellent customer service. Click here to look for the place to stay in Romania
I recommend joining organized tours to get to know the place better and to visit more places during your trip. You can find a great selection of tours at Viator or Get Your Guide .
To always stay connected I use Airalo eSim cards – click here to get yours!
For transportation and booking tickets online , I usually use 12Go or Omio
Never travel without travel insurance , you never know what might happen and better safe than sorry. You can check the insurance policy for Romania here.
Make sure to have the offline map always installed on your phone, they can save you so many troubles. I always use the free app Maps.Me .

For the end I left a few announcements that might interest you:

Sign up to my newsletter or follow me on Bloglovin to get updates about the new posts
Join my Facebook group about Eastern Europe, the Balkans and former USSR and connect with fellow travellers and enthusiasts of these regions – just click here!
I’ve included a few handy links of services and products I personally like and use so you can plan your own trip to Romania too. They are often affiliate links. This means I will get a small commission if you book/purchase anything through my links, at no extra costs for you. Thank you!

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Lee Hamilton

Thanks so much imformative info on Bulgaria.i hope to go there in the near future.

I think you meant Romania ;) Either way, I hope you will go to both countries one day, they are really great!

Debshuvra Chowdhury

Hello KAMI! Thanks for such an informative article. One of the places on my ‘things to see list’ in Romania is Salina Turda. It looks magnificent in the photos; I can only imagine how good it looks in person. Can’t wait to explore this mine of beauty.

I hope you will be able to visit it soon! Fingers crossed!

Great article! For next time if you are visiting again, try to also see Rimetea – probably the most beautiful village in the country, as well as the Apuseni mountains areas.

Thank you for the tips. Apuseni mountains have been on my bucket list for a while now but I never have enough time to see everything :)

Let’s become friends!

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Kami and the rest of the world

50 Of The Best Places To Visit In Romania On One Epic Road Trip!

Posted on Last updated: December 15, 2023

Categories Romania

50 Of The Best Places To Visit In Romania On One Epic Road Trip!

Expert travel storyteller Jordan Adkins, founder of InspiredByMaps.com, brings a decade of adventures across 101 countries and 450+ UNESCO sites into rich, off-the-beaten-path narratives, melding ecological expertise with genuine, seasoned travel insights. His full bio can be found here.

Don’t know anything about Romania beyond Dracula and a national love of stuffed cabbage leaves?

That’s OK! We are going to introduce you to 50 of the Best Places to Visit in Romania and convince you this incredible country should be top of your bucket list! With a fairytale landscape, fortified churches, and painted monasteries, there is a lot to love in this mountainous nation.

A strong yet mysterious country that is full of contrasts with vibrant western cities and villages that seem stuck in a wonderfully nostalgic time warp. Dacia’s rule the road here and dense primeval forests provide shelter for the wolves and bears, which call the Carpathian mountains home.

There is so much to discover here, so book your flight now, sort out your rent a car Romania and get planning your visit to Romania – You won’t regret it!

Page Contents

#2. Râșnov Citadel

#3. peștera valea cetății, #4. zărnești libearty bear sanctuary, #5. bran castle, #6. curtea de argeș monastery, #7. palace of the parliament, #8. the middle of romania, #9. densus church, #10. transfăgărășan highway, #11. corvin castle, #12. lacul roșu (red lake), #13. merry cemetery, #15. transalpina road, #16. bicaz gorge, #17. biertan, #18. han pescăresc, #19. praid salt mines, #20. pelisor castle and peles castles, #21.saschiz, #22. pensiunea agroturistica casa coliniţa, #23. mănăstirea corbii de piatră, #24. horezu monastery, #25. targu jiu, #26. pensiunea muntele alb, #27. wooden gates of bârsana, #28. sarmizegetusa regia, #29. salina turda, #30. cluj-napoca, #31: wooden churches of maramures, #32. borgo pass, #33. ciocănești, #34. churches of moldavia, #35. viscri village, #36. transrarau pass, #37. mausoleum of mărășești, #38. danube delta, #39. letea forest, #40. lake vidraru dam, #41. constanta casino, #42. moldovița mountains, #43. romanian bonfire, #45. sunflower farms, #46. transbucegi, #47. maramures hostel, #48. bâlea lake, #49. hay stacks, #50. bucharest.

Wander around a medieval town preserved in time at the base of the Carpathians. And of course, stay in the charming hotels in Brasov.

The 7th most populous city in Romania, Brasov was formed in 1211 when King Andrew II of Hungary ordered the Teutonic Knights to fortify the borders of what was then the Kingdom of Hungary . The knights today are long gone, but thanks to the cities position as a significant hub on the trade roads between East and West, Brasov continued to grow.

Today Brasov is filled with gothic, baroque, and renaissance architecture and plenty of curious historical attractions – like the Black Church, the largest gothic church between Vienna and Istanbul . Like stepping back time, the medieval vibes exuded here make Brasov an intoxicating and not to be missed attraction in Transylvania

Climb up to one of Europe’s best-preserved Citadel, which still keeps a watchful gaze over the plains below.

A grand mountain fort built to protect the outer borders of the historic Hungarian empire, Râșnov Citadel has a long and intriguing history just begging to be explored. Its location at the mouth of the Bran Pass was chosen as invading armies had to pass through Râșnov before heading west – and over the years, it was besieged by the Tatar , the Ottoman, Hungarian revolutionaries, and the Austrian imperial troops – just to name a few.

As a result, it is probably no surprise that the people of Râșnov and the nearby villages grew weary of continually leaving their homes to be ransacked and so simply turned the Râșnov Citadel into their long-term home for decades – meaning there is now an entire village within the fortification left to explore. There is also a museum worth visiting with exhibits, including weapons and period objects worth exploring.

Climb into a huge limestone cave carved out by water and time under the mountains.

The Valea Cetăţii Cave and surrounding natural protected area are all exceptional beautiful – however, the standout highlight has to be the jaw-dropping Cathedral Hall reached through a short walk through an ancient forest. Within this 30,000 cubic meter cave are small pools of water that perfectly mirror the extraordinary calcite formations and white arches that hang from above.

A rare chance to get up close to this natural geological formations – and without undertaking a claustrophobic expedition of abseiling as in many other places. It is conveniently located only a few kilometers from the city of Râşnov, though for some reason international tourists have yet to discover the Valea Cetăţii Cave – meaning a more enriching experience for those who wind up at this magical place!

Come face to face with nature in this safe space for the rescued brown bears of Eastern Europe .

A beautiful bear sanctuary hidden in the historic oak forests above the town of Zarnesti in Transylvania is now open to guests. The Libearty Bear Sanctuary Zarnesti was founded in 1998 by a Romanian woman, Cristina Lapis after she witnessed three bears in a small cage in a restaurant being used to attract customers. Sadly, in the past, this practice was all too popular. She then made it her personal mission to rescue bears who were languishing in small and rusted cages at restaurants and petrol stations and create a sanctum for them. Thus Libearty Bear Sanctuary Zarnesti was born.

Only open in the mornings, onsite guides take you around the sanctum informing you of each of their personal stories – and giving you a unique opportunity to see over 50 rescued bears. Be warned. Some of their accounts are very sad, but supporting this shelter helps to ensure the remainder of their life is as peaceful as possible.

Zărnești LiBEARty Bear Sanctuary - Romania Travel Ideas

Get goosebumps exploring the famous castle-keep that didn’t actually inspire Bram Stoker’s ‘Dracula.’

One of the most famous castles in Romania – if not the world, initially built-in 1212 and destroyed just a few decades later in 1242 by Mongols. It was rebuilt and destroyed many times over the centuries taking its dramatic form we see today in the 14th-century.

Commonly known outside Romania as ‘The Real Dracula’s Castle,’ Bran Castle is frequently alleged as the inspiration for the famous Count Dracula in Bram Stoker’s famous book. However, in reality, the description of Dracula’s crumbling fictional CastleCastle bears almost no resemblance to the immaculate Bran Castle, and there are only tenuous associations with Vlad the Impaler, the presumed inspiration for Dracula. In fact, there is no evidence at all that Bram Stoker was even aware of the existence of this castle.

Still, this association was one that the Communist Party of Romania used in tourism in the 1970s to encourage tourism as they sought to develop a closer relationship to the West. Today, Bran Castle’s private owners are happy to keep playing this up to keep tourists flowing in. Regardless of this, the medieval dramatic architecture, intriguing history, and a well-stocked museum displaying art and furniture collected by Queen Marie mean Bran Castle is not to be missed on any Romanian road trip. There is also a cute little open-air museum displaying classic Romanian peasant structures such as cottages and barns, which is worth a look in.

Wondering the best film to see before you travel to Romania? You guessed it, the 1991 movie Dracula where Gary Oldman and Winona Ryder star in a tortured tale of a charismatic vampire, based on the tale of the Prince of Darkness.

bram stoker's castle dracula - Romania Travel

Marvel at this Tentative UNESCO site and one of Romania’s most important churches where the royals are buried.

Built in the early 16th century, this Romanian Orthodox cathedral is dedicated to Dormition of the Mother of God and is regarded as one of Romania’s most prestigious religious sights. The cathedral boasted a pastel grey limestone exterior while the interior is of brick, covered, and embellished with sublimes frescoes. Much of the marble and tiles used in its construct hail from Constantinople, resulting in Curtea de Argeş Cathedral resembling a mosque more than a conventional Orthodox church.

The site also houses a grand Neo-Romanian style Royal Palace and a necropolis – the final resting place of many medieval princes and royal family members of the centuries, including most recently in 2017, when King Michael I was buried here with a full state funeral.

Curtea de Argeș Monastery - Tentative UNESCO Site

Feel tiny standing in front of one of the world’s biggest buildings, which consumes as much electricity as a medium city!

The Palace of the Parliament is the current seat of the Parliament of Romania, found in the capital, Bucharest. Built over 13 years from 1984 to 1997, this grand moment to socialist realist and modernist neoclassical architecture was ordered by Nicolae Ceaușescu, the dictator of Communist Romania and designed by a team of approximately 700 architects. Today it is still the world’s largest civilian building with an administrative function, as well as being the heaviest and most expensive building.

Its interior constitutes 23 orant sections, and today has been repurposed to house the two houses of the Parliament of Romania: the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies. In addition, there is also an international conference center and three museums, including the National Museum of Contemporary Art, the Museum of Communist Totalitarianism, and the Museum of the Palace. Even with these extraordinary uses, 70% of the building still remains empty.

Beautiful Places in Romania - Parliament of the People

Find your way into the middle of nowhere and the middle of Romania at 45°59′06.81″N 24°41′09.87″E

Ok – We are not going to say this is one of the top Romania tourist attractions, but if you are on a road trip, chances are you will pass close by, so why not make the stop. Located in complete obscurity, there is a small sign to mark the spot – and plenty of gorgeous countryside around. And we will bet you a good meal there won’t be another tourist, or soul, around for miles.

Sighișoara is probably the closest large town in Romania you are likely to visit – but mark the spot on the map, and you never know when you’ll be nearby. It is all part of the adventure, after all!

Tune into your spirituality in the oldest church in Romania, most of which are still standing.

Another idiosyncratic spot for those wondering what to see in Romania without being swarmed by tourists. Legend has it that the Densus Church started life as a Roman pagan temple in the 4th century – which makes sense given the hodgepodge of architectural styles present here, including Byzantine design mixed with Roman columns.

Proving great things come in small packages, the importance of this church’s story was acknowledged as far back as the Hungarian Empire when Densus Church was afforded traditional protection. This ensured it was not destroyed to build a more lavish and grand church – as was standard at the time. Even today, religious services are still held regularly here as they have been for over 700 years.

Be transfixed by this seemingly impossible highway, which was gouged out in the steep mountains through the sheer folly of Nicolae Ceaușescu.

One of the most famous places to visit in Romania, in large part thanks to a specific Top Gear episode, the Transfăgărășan Highway is unlike any other road on earth. Built-in the early 1970s as a strategic military route ( in case of a Soviet invasion) the construction of this paved mountain road crossing the southern section of the Carpathian Mountains was once thought impossible due to its extreme alpine environment. Turns out, it was possible – however its creation came at a high financial and human cost, including hundreds of lives, and over six million kilograms of dynamite.

Even today, the Transfăgărășan is only traversable during the summer months and average speeds are around 40 km/h. Expect plenty of winding road, abrupt hairpin turns, long S-curves, and sharp descents – though this may be the attraction for many motorists, including Top Gear Host Jeremy Clarkson who blazoned it the “best road in the world.” For others, the jaw-dropping scenery and history are the allure. No matter your interest, the Transfăgărășan will not disappoint.

This trip is only possible with a car… Take a look now at the best rental car prices in Romania so you can compare and save!

If this were a Top Ten Places To Visit in Romania, we would be done now, but luckily it’s not, and we have another 40 b eautiful places in Romania to explore…

Relive your childhood at this fairytale fortified castle protecting the Western Carpathians. Yes – The Corvin Castle is also the closest you will get in real life to living out your Hogwarts dreams.

Initially constructed in the 14th century, with its fourth and final phase of construction being complete in the 19th century, the Corvin Castle , stands as a Gothic-Renaissance masterpiece that was worth waiting for. Today is has stood the test of time and is still standing amongst the largest castles in Europe, in large part thanks to a recent (fancifully) restoration effort after a calamitous fire and decades of neglect.

Despite being besieged by modern steel mills and industrial buildings, Corvin Castle still offers a spellbinding attraction from its fairytale location atop a rocky bluff connected by only a thin bridge for access. Like seemingly every castle in Romania, some legends associate this place with Vlad the Impaler – but the elaborate architecture and endless rooms and courtyards to explore ensure Corvin Castle is one of the best places to visit In Romania.

Feel time slow here at this picturesque holiday spot high in the mountains, popular with families and hikers.

A large natural dam lake formed by an earthquake in 1838. Today the Red Lake and surrounding area are known for its temperate microclimate that encourages health tourism. Everything from physical and mental exhaustion to insomnia and neurasthenia is said to be helped here.

The clean air in the valley is likely to aid in relaxation, especially as many of its visitors are escaping the crowded and polluted air of Bucharest. Either way, this is a tranquil location worthy of exploring for a few days if you have time – and offers a chance to experience Romania as Romanians do.

Lacul Roșu (Red Lake) - Romania Vacation Spots

Ponder this colorful and humorous reinterpretation of life and death in a small rural cemetery.

An open-air museum and a national tourist attraction that has somewhat recently rose to prominence due to one specific unusual feature of this cemetery. The Merry Cemetary, as the name suggests, does not treat death as something indelibly solemn but instead that death should be a moment overflowing with joy and expectation of a better life.

This belief is connected with the local Dacian culture and results here in bright illustrations and dark humor being exhibited on gravestones. “Underneath this heavy cross. Lies my mother in law poor… Try not to wake her up. For if she comes back home. She’ll bite my head off.”

Soak in the vibes of this bustling city in the heart of Transylvania with cobbled streets and imposing churches still protected by a grand city wall.

One of the most important artistic centers of Romania, the medieval city of Sibiu today, has successfully reinvented itself as a livable home for beatnik artists and those who what the culture of Bucharest without the fast-pace of life (and sprawling traffic jams).

Indulge in the cities growing coffee culture, wander historic plazas, explore art in baroque palaces, or be reinvigorated by the unbridled creativity of its residents. A fusion of old and new Romania, it is no wonder the cosmopolitan Sibiu is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. Plan to stay at least a few days to take in its highlights, or use it as a great jumping-off base for exploring the surrounding region of Transylvania.

Traverse the highest mountain pass in Romania where you touch the clouds and follow in the footsteps of a 13th century noble and traders.

While the Transfăgărășan Pass might be the most famous Romanian Road – the Transalpina or DN67C is actually the highest road in the country with an elevation is 2,145m above sea level. And yes, it is equally exciting. While a mountain path at this spot in the Carpathian Mountains is said to have existed for millennia, it was the Germans during WW2 who initially turned it into a road for military reasons. However, it took until 2007 for the modern ‘Transalpina’ to develop after an enormous project, which was a 148 km dirty road transformed into a modern highway.

In many ways, the Transalpina is more majestic in terms of sheer natural beauty and allows tourists a peek into landscapes untouched by technological advances. The journey across its Urdele Pass plateau is particularly impressive – where you are quite often driving above a sea of clouds. It would be impossible for us to chose a favorite amongst the (many) mountain pass roads of Romania, so all we can do is suggest you visit them all. Yes, there are more coming up!

Feel smaller than an ant in this deep valley gorge that weaves its way between ancient boulders and sheer cliffs.

Yet another magnificent road that adds to the appeal of Romania as an exemplary road trip destination, the Bicaz Gorge serves as a (narrow) passageway between the provinces of Moldova (not the nearby country of Moldova) and Transylvania. The Bicaz Gorge allows access to the famous Red Lake as noted above, into which the Bicaz River discharges.

Created by the torrid waters of the below, the 8-kilometer road here winds through steep canyons and ravines with 300m-high limestone rocks towering on one idea and precipitous drops on the other. Not for the faint of heart, this dramatic drive also offers a peerless view of the Ceahlau Mountains.

Marvel at the fortified church keep which protected its villagers from pillaging invaders over the centuries.

Charming Biertan , one of Transylvania seven villages with Fortified Churches protected by UNESCO, feels lost in time. Horse-drawn carriages, a mess of Saxon-style buildings, a looming fortified church, and cute medieval inns are all found here. With three tiers of 35-foot-high defensive walls and an intricate system of towers and gates, it should come as no surprise that Beritan was never conquered in medieval times. As a result, the village remains to give a striking and authentic picture of the cultural landscape of southern Transylvania.

The village is also famous for another reason, there was only one divorce amongst its residents for over 300 years. This is because inside the fortified church was a ‘marital prison’ where couples were locking to divorced for six weeks were locked up to solve their issues. To find out more, visit the phenomenal museum onside.

Catch your own fish or enjoy a traditional meal with a stunning view in this small Transylvanian-Hungarian community.

A quaint fishing inn in the heart of the picturesque mountain village in central Romania, perfect for lunch or an overnight stay. The basic idea of the Han Pescaresc Inn is fish-farming using the knowledge from several generations of the same family who have lived here. This means you can hire a fishing net and all you need for fishing.

Still, we recommend going more for the unique gastronomic experience that is oh-so-typically Romanian. Enjoy a freshly roasted trout caught in the lake right in front of the restaurant, and then grab a beer or explore the picturesque grounds further. Another hidden gem most popular with locals, making it even more worthy of a spot on your Romanian road trip itinerary.

Escape the heat and enjoy the healing abilities of this vast abandoned mine.

Romania isn’t just all mountain passes, castles, and medieval villages – there are also underground salt mines. And boy, are they popular – in large part due to the unique microclimate that is said to help with different diseases. And one of the most famous is the Praid Salt Mine , home to one of the largest salt reserves in Romania.

Hop on one of their shuttle basses and head down to “Level 50” – 120 m below the surface where you will find… basically a small underground village? It’s weird. Really weird. And that’s why we love the Praid Salt Mines. The salt deposits here have been exploited since Roman times, but today its offering is slightly different. Light shows, Wi-Fi, television, playgrounds, amusement rides, 3D Cinema, a coffee shop, and a naturist drugstore can all be found down here. There is also a restaurant and wine tasting program. Because, why not?

The average annually underground temperature is 16 degrees Celsius, and during the summer months, around 3000 people visit per day. Yes, Praid Salt Mines is wildly popular – and one visit there, you will see why. There is (almost) nothing else like it…

Explore one of Romania’s most beautiful castles, which are still home to their royal family today!

Constructed built between 1873 and 1914, by order of King Carol I, under whose reign the country gained its independence, after visiting the adjacent town of Sinaia and falling in love with the magnificent mountain scenery. The more immense Neo-Renaissance Peleș Castle was constructed first, later followed by Pelisor Castle, which is a glorious example of Art Nouveau style combined with Byzantine and Celtic elements.

Peleș Castle was nationalized after King Michael was forced to abdicate and fled the communist government in 1947. It was returned to the Royal Family in 1997, along with many other properties. Still, it was then subject to a decade-long court case. Today, both are accessible to the public through onsite museums but are also occasionally used events organized by the former royal family.

Interestingly, Romania is one of the few countries in the world actively considering restoring its monarchy with recent polls showing half of the population believes monarchy to be a better organizational form than a republic. For now, the Royal house here is exceedingly popular, yet have no position in government. Not that that should preclude Pelisor Castle from being one of the best places to visit in Romania.

With so many beautiful places to see in Romania, how can you be expected to find them all on yourself? You can’t, of course, but this list will help, and so does the Romania Lonely Planet. Get it now in print or on a PDF for your phone, so you are never stuck on the road in Romania… Now 30 more to go!

Discover a traditional village watched over by a crumbling church.

Another of the seven villages with fortified churches in Transylvania protected by UNESCO, though Saschiz literally stands out. The sheer size of the church ensures its attracts attention even amongst this venerable group, and is worth a visit alone to marvel at its immense arches, extensive buttresses, and ornamental stone and brick aspects.

Located very close to Sighisoara, this towering defensive outpost is not the only reason to visit Saschiz however. The town is also famed as a center of carpentry and wood-painting. Take some time to try the local cheese, explore artisan shops, wander the cobblestone streets, and enjoy the picturesque view of the village from the hill above.

Saschiz UNESCO World Heritage Site in Romania

Experience life as a traditional farmer in this secluded valley with evening cow milking and farm-fresh gastronomy.

The farm complex Pensiunea Agroturistica Casa Coliniţa is located in the hills outside of Vatra Moldoviţei and offers home-made products and demonstrations of the farm activities. All rooms feature traditional Romanian decor and furniture, but thankfully WiFi is also offered. Meals prepared with the own farm products are on offer – and should not be missed. It would not be an exaggeration to describe dinners here – and our entire stay in genera – as a highlight of Romania.

The ideal place to go to see and encounter rural Romania, where dazzling landscapes and ancient traditions combine to create something utterly magical. Owned and managed by Loba Ion and his mum, you will immediately feel at home here and are guaranteed an experience like no other. If you are lucky, you’ll be offered an adventure like picking mushroom, wandering the hills to milk show, or listening to the bellowing of the deer stag at nights. If you are, “Yes, please!” is the only acceptable answer.

Find this ancient church perfectly hidden in a rock face to protect worshippers from nosey pagans.

Translated as the Stone Ravens Monastery, this miniature ancient place is exceptionally peaceful and mysterious – even if you don’t need to stay long. In dire need of repair, this Monastery was first documented in 1512. Still, the style of the carving on the wall gives a clue of its actual age, with art harking back to the 10th century Byzantine Empire.

It might even date back to one millennium early to the 2nd century due to its camouflaged hatch entry popular with persecuted Christians of the time. There is also evidence that it was used as a point of worship of the Dacians, the original people who occupied this region. Much like Easter Island or Tikal , we may never get answers. Still, a visit here is undeniably moving and intriguing – and you are likely to enjoy this enigmatic place all to yourself.

Mănăstirea Corbii de Piatră Travel Romania

Discover a hidden monastery tucked into the foothills of the Carpathians.

Established in 1690 by Prince Constantine Brancovan, the monastery of Horezu is a masterpiece of the ‘Brancovan’ style. As such, it has been recognized as one of the 25 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Romania. The Brâncovenesc style is the only authentic and original Romanian style to ever develop. It formed as a result of the constant tug-of-wall between world powers in the surrounding area and a desire to put cultural development of the country above everything else.

Horezu is renowned for its bounty of sculptural detail, its committed portraits, and its painted decorative works – as well as its architectural purity. The school of mural painting instituted here in the 18th century made it famous throughout the Balkan region.

View the artworks of Constantin Brâncuși, which are influenced by geometrical designs and representational art.

While there is plenty to discover in the town, Târgu Jiu is famous as the home of Constantin Brâncuși, a pioneer of modernism and one of the most influential sculptors of the 20th-century. The apex of Constantin Brâncuși’s career was when he commissioned to contribute to a memorial monument to the fighters of World War 1 in Târgu Jiu.

The result, completed in 1938, was called Calea Eroilor, “Heroes’ Street,” which is a series of sculptures now famed throughout the world: The Table of Silence, Stool Alley, The Gate of the Kiss, and The Endless Column. In the 1950s, the Communist mayor proposed to destroy Brâncuși’s “bourgeois” art. However, thankfully he was unsuccessful, and they are still here and free for you to enjoy. Of course, Targu Jiu has more to offer than this – but I’ll let you discover them for yourself!

Bath in a panoramic visit like no other while you enjoy traditional Romanian hospitality at this wonderful guesthouse.

Breathtaking views, great rooms, and outstanding service – what more could you ask for? After adventuring up 13km of paved road, you are rewarded with mountain top tranquility, starry skies, unbelievable vistas, and smiling hosts. All at over 1650 m altitude…

At night, there are communal areas to cook food and a fireplace to meet other guests around. Another authentically Romanian experience, this guest house is popular with locals with love to get away and enjoy nature – along with the hearty food on offer here.

Wander around a village unchanged by the modern world and marvel at the wooden craftsmanship on display.

Located in the Maramures region, often referred to as the ‘land of wood,’ a visit to rustic Bârsana promises verdant green landscapes, a slow-paced atmosphere, and, most famously, glorious wooden oak gates. Proudly crafted by generations of inhabitants, the gates are said to help connect with a different world, a realm hidden from all that is evil. Thus behind these guardian gates carved with pre-Christian pagan motifs full of deep meanings, the house and its inhabitants are protected.

The Bârsana gates are often much larger than the property behind; providing a defensive wall that cannot be bypassed and passing beneath it is a ritual act of purification. Historically gates were reserved for noblemen, but today they are raised as a sign of wealth and pride across the entire Maramures region. Still, in Bârsana, their crafted beauty and prominence are particularly majestic.

Bârsana Wooden Gates in Maramures Romania

Step back in time and unravel the secrets of the ancient Dacian people and their hilltop fortress, often described as the Machu Picchu of Europe. Yes – Sarmizegetusa Regia is as ancient as it is mysterious!

Concealed in the impenetrable forests of the Carpathians, Sarmizegetusa Regia is one of the most magnificent and enigmatic sites in Romania. Founded on top of a 1200 m high mountain, the fortress, containing six citadels, was the capital and the most important religious, military, and political center of the Dacians – before the Roman conquest in the 2nd century AD.

Its location, even today, remains difficult to access, which explains how the comprehensive and well-preserved remains which stand in magnificent natural surroundings have lasted into the modern era. An exceptional wonder that gives a dramatic picture of an innovative civilization from the classical world / late European Iron Age. If you have time, check into a local guesthouse and spend a few days hiking in the surrounding Gradistea Muncelului-Cioclovina Nature Park within its glorious vistas and various other Dacian ruins. You are likely to have these awe-inspiring and powerful spaces all to yourself.

Eschew sunlight and fresh air for this subterranean labyrinth complete with a sci-fi theme park, health spa, and Ferris wheel.

Another salt mine in Romania that should not be missed. Salina Turda bills itself as a halotherapy center and well as a veritable destination to discover the (surprisingly fascinating) history of salt mining. But it is so much more than that. Located 120 meters below the ground, this is one of the oldest salt mines known to man and today houses a futuristic modern art theme park complete with an underground lake with rowboats, spa treatment rooms, a bowling alley, and mini-golf.

We have no idea who came up with this bizarre concept. Still, with over 500,000 people visiting annually, it is fair to say the modernization and reinvention of Salina Turda has been a resounding success. With five cavernous mines to explore, swimming pools and more – Salina Turda is most assuredly one of the most astonishing places found on or IN the planet. Don’t miss it.

Delight in the historical and culinary highlights of this cosmopolitan city with far more than meets the eye.

The unofficial ‘capital’ of Transylvania, Cluj-Napoca , has a considerable student population leading to its arty vibe, uninhabited nightlife, and some of Europe’s best-loved electronic music festivals. The second most populous city in Romania is also blessed with a cornucopia of primarily Renaissance, Baroque and Gothic architecture and a remarkable set of mid-century styles buildings that make wandering its neighborhoods even more appealing.

While there are pockets of utilitarian Communist-era architecture, there is far less than other urban centers in Romania. Add to this the lively old town, peaceful green areas, modern cafes, and long-list of cultural institutions, and you have a vibrant destination worthy of at least a few day’s investigations. Most travelers lament not allowing enough time to explore Cluj-Napoca fully – don’t be one of them!

It’s impossible to choose the b est places in Romania to visit…But you have to try, right! Even narrowing it down to 50 was tough! Twenty more to go…

Look on with wonderment at these ornately crafted Wooden churches with have survived unchanged for centuries. But be warned – the distance Maramures region is even more mysterious than Transylvania …

There are almost one hundred Orthodox churches, and a few Greek-Catholic ones, wooden churches in this remote region of Romania. While each is worth visiting, eight have been selected as leading examples that showcase the diverse range of architectural solutions using to build these churches. You would be hard-pressed not to see at least one while exploring this region, as these high timber constructions are characteristically tall and tower over the fields and small villages in which they are found.

The entire Maramureș region has been semi-autonomous since the Middle Ages, meaning the people have their own traditions and way of life of here. This distinct way of life has also been ensured in the modern era due to its remote location in a mountainous area of northern Romania and a general lack of visitors. Besides the iconic churches, the Maramureș boasts well-preserved wooden villages and a visibly traditional lifestyle. This, along with the colorful outfit many locals still proudly wear, ensure the Maramureș is often referred to as a living museum of Old Europe.

Wooden Church's of Maramures UNESCO Site

Follow in the footsteps of Stokers Dracula and transverse the scenic mountain pass between Transylvania with Bukovina.

At this point, you’ll probably be getting a sense of just how epic the roads and highway passes of Romania are. And this spot is no exception. This “Borgo Pass” was made popular thanks to a reference in Bram Stoker’s novel Dracula as the entrance to the domain of Count Dracula. However, as we saw previously, Bram never actually visited the area and presumably found the name on a map.

For the record, the pass is officially known as the Tihuța Pass – but its literary claim to fame does not mean its sheer natural brilliance should be underestimated. Located at an elevation of 1,116 m, the pass reveals excellent unspoiled views of the Carpathian mountains and the traditional villages that dot the hillside here. The pass is also home to the Hotel “Castel Dracula,” built-in 1974 in a medieval castle-type style and a popular place to stay the night for true fans of Romania’s most famous novel.

Enjoy a coffee in this quaint town renowned for its individually decorated houses and valley setting.

While it might not be the most spectacular highlight of Romania, the charming village of Ciocanesti is worth stopping at as your route towards the Maramures on the other side of the Eastern Carpathians will undoubtedly take you nearby. The 500 or so houses of Ciocanesti form something of an outdoor museum as the walls of each is painted in traditional motifs, similar to those you would normally find on Easter Eggs. This is no coincidence as in the 1950’s one imaginative owner thought to brighten things up to attract people to this small town by painting her entire house. In time others would note her success and join in. Today the local authorities coordinate and finance all these artworks.

Every motif is said to reflect the personality of the house’s inhabitants – so we will leave you to guess what some of those colors and shapes say about the occupants. The aesthetic transformation village of Ciocanesti is nothing short of astonishing and has ensured its place as a pearl of the region of Bukovina that no tourists should miss.

Gaze upon the timeless frescos and colorful churches of the Moldavia region, a World Heritage Site.

A set of eight churches in northern Moldavia designated as UNESCO World Heritage in Romania. Constructed in the late 15th and 16th centuries, they are remarkable due to their external walls being blanketed in unusual Byzantine-style fresco paintings. Yes, the outside! Far from being minor wall decorations, the compositions create a methodical covering on all the facades and outline complete religious themes and ideas dominant at the time.

Their outstanding construction, the balance of the characters, and the arrangement of the colors mingle perfectly with the surrounding countryside. More in common with the majestic yet simple churches hidden in the countryside of Georgia and Armenia than the dominating cathedrals of Copenhagen and Lisbon , the Churches of Moldavia are essential sightseeing for even the most ‘church’d out’ of European travelers.

Just to be clear, we are talking about the Romanian region of Moldova. Not the country next doo r – which is worthy of a visit in and of itself (just be careful as most rental cars and some insurance policies will not cover you if you cross the border!).

Colourful Churches of Moldavia UNESCO Site in Romania

Follow in Prince Charles’s footsteps and explore every inch of this exemplary fortified church, which is protected by UNESCO. Viscri has strong Saxon roots, and if you’re lucky, the Prince of Wales may be visiting his house here!

Yes, the Prince Charles of Wales did indeed buy a house here, but there is plenty of reasons to visit even for non-Royalists. The exalted fortified church, the adorable local guesthouses, and the famous barn restaurant serving traditional Romanian specialties all spring to mind. You can also hike or bike the many paths around the town, which give sweeping landscape views of the 13th-century village surrounded by green pastures and dense oak forests.

If you decide to stay the night in Viscri , don’t miss the evening ‘cow parade’ where the 300 cows return from the surrounding fields in which they graze. This is about as local as it gets!

Breath in crisp Mountain air and survey this untouched TransRarau alpine environment from above. New infrastructure development here ensures that while the TransRarau maybe is less popular than other passes in Romania, it will not stay that way for long!

TransRarau , yet another gorgeous high altitude alpine road in Romania that crosses the Rarau Mountains. Famed as the third most beautiful road in Romania, though in all honesty, the passes here are each so exceptional we gave up trying to rank them. Just incorporate them all into your road trip! Also known as Treasure Road or, more simply DJ175B, this crossing is 26 km long, reaches an elevation of 1,400m, and connects the village of Chiril and Pojorata. In the past, the road was narrow and filled with pothole but has recently been renewed at great expensive – and ensuring an easygoing drive for you. Just pay attention to the curves!

Much less popular than all other Romanian mountain passes we visited, the entire trip is full of jaw-dropping panoramas – though annoyingly with a distinct lack of parking places to enjoy them. One place, however, you will want to stop for a photo is the ‘Lady’s Stones,’ a famous natural rock monument with unmistakable silhouettes – and thankfully, there are a few safe places to park here.

Pay your respects to Romania’s fallen from the first World War, located near the battlefield of Mărășești in which Romania achieved its first decisive victory.

It might not be one of our favorite Romania tourist attractions – but being found in Mărășești in Vrancea County makes this site a great way to break up a long stretch of rather boring driving as you head back to Bucharest or to the Black Sea. The Battle of Mărășești was a battle fought during World War I between Germany and Romania in which German attempt to crush the last Romanian army failed, but the Romanians also failed to regain their territory.

Sadly Romania lost over 27,000 men, though the tenacity of their spirit was also shown as Germany lost almost twice as many soldiers (47,000). The motto of the Romanian Army during the battle was “Pe aici nu se trece” (“They shall not pass”) – which we would also apply to this moment today as it sits conveniently on the side of a major highway. The memorial took 15 years to build and was unveiled on 18 September 1938 by King Carol II, just in time for WW2.

Test your ornithologist skills in Europe’s largest protected wildlife zone, with over 5,500 species

Romania isn’t just all mountain passes and unique churches; there are also almost unbelievable natural landscapes to be discovered here – including the exceptionally underrated Danube Delta.

The waters of the Danube, which flow into the Black Sea, form the largest and best-preserved of Europe’s deltas. Located on significant migratory routes and providing sufficient conditions for nesting and hatching, the Danube Delta is a sanctuary for birds from six major ecoregions of the world, including the Mongolian, Arctic and Siberian

. Over 320 species of birds can be spotted in the Delta during summer, of which 166 are hatching species, and 159 are migratory – and over one million individual birds winter here. While most international tourists head to Transylvania or the beach resort towns south of the Delta, the Danube Delta shouldn’t be overlooked by bird lovers or those who have an interest in exploring one of Europe’s last remaining expanses of pristine nature.

Wander around this bizarre forest, which springs out of a rolling dune system.

Letea Forest is the oldest natural reservation in Romania, established back in 1938, and is famous for its 500-year old oaks, wild horses, sand dunes, tropical creeping ivy, and abundance of birds. With a different feel to the rivers and islands of the delta, there is also a small restaurant in a village here served delicious trout.

Yes, it is technically located within the Danube Delta, but worthy of its own spot on this list of things to see in Romania.

Pack a picnic and enjoy this stunning dam set high in the Carpathians.

Created in 1965 as a result of the construction of the Vidraru Dam on the Argeș River, which at times was the fifth largest dam in Europe and 9th in the world. It is hard to convey the true magnitude of this project at the time as 40,000 toiled over six years to mammoth construction, a first of its kind in Romania, and as much of a monument to the countries communist past as the Palace of Parliament in Bucharest or the Transfagarasan Highway. Today this achievement is still marked by the communist ‘Energia’ statue, representing Prometheus with lightning in his hand, which can be spotted standing guard here.

If the community history, unnatural beauty of the location, and picnicking aren’t enough, you can go for a swim, though even in the summer months, the water is only ever between 5°C to 15°C. There is also small boat rides possible – and for bunging jumping off the 166m dam face for those who are braver.

On the home stretch now of the top 50 most b eautiful places in Romania. Stay with us now. We promise you we have saved some of the best for last!

Admire Romania’s crumbling ghost, once known as the Monte Carlo of the east!

Once considered Romania’s Monte Carlo and a symbol of the city of Constanța , the most-recent and modern version of the now-defunct casino was built in Art Nouveau style and inaugurated in 1910. It was in operation for 38 years, with interruptions and bombings during the wars, until in 1948, it was taken over by the Communist government.

It was abandoned in 1990 due to large operational expenses and remained to this day a haunting sight on the seafront. Numerous plans have been floated for its redevelopment over the year, but litigation and political frenzy have so far ensured no project has ever progressed beyond the drawing board.

Commune with nature and the shepherds as you enjoy a day hiking between picturesque villages.

The countryside in Romania enchants tourists from all over the world with its fairytale landscapes, Saxon villages, fortified churches, and rural life. Competition is fierce between regions but Moldovița, in the north-east of the country, might be the best place to escape for a few days, live like a local, fully relax and indulge yourself with ancestral food.

A truly Romanian experience in slow living – Moldovița has only four villages: Argel, Demăcușa, Moldovița, and Rașca, but plenty of gorgeous mountains, cute hikes, hospitable locals and a ‘Land That Time Forgot’ quality. For countryside will take your breath away, unblemished mountain scenery and fascinating traditional villages located in valleys and on green hills – Moldovița is where you should go.

Dance the night away around a Bonfire with folk dancing and plenty of music.

Ok, not technically a place in Romania – but an experience you should seek out. Romania is one of the poorest countries in Europe, meaning when you are on holiday here you will often be sharing accommodation and guest houses with locals as well as international travelers – because, for Romanians, the cost of traveling abroad is simply too exorbitant.

While recognizing this is is a sad situation, it means as a traveler you have even more opportunities to interact with locals. We would encourage you to use it. On our travelers here we meant many Romanian families, couples, and solo travelers who invited us to enjoy drinks with them, visit their towns and join for meals and dancing around more the bonfire on more that one occasion. The hospitality and charm of the Romanian people is infectious – and a large part of why we loved visiting Romanian. A smile and a friendly hello will go a long way.

Romania Places To Visit - Romania Bonfire

Admire the beauty of this small village, which looks like it was transported from the Mediterranean. Kind of.

A small commune in Sibiu County only 40 km west of the county capital Sibiu, Jina sites on the edge of the Cindrel Mountains and sprawling farmland below. There is nothing exceptionally extraordinary about this city, but its location and lack of tourists make it a great spot for photos and a picnic on your Romanian road trip.

Again – on the greatest joying of exploring this mysterious country is taking the road-less-traveled and discovering your own hidden gems. For us, Jina was exactly this sort of discovery.

Bask in summers warm embrace and admire the fields upon fields of sunflowers that cover the countryside.

Again, not an exact place in Romania, but on your road trip here, you are bound to notice an unusual abundance of sunflower farms dotting the roadside. This is because Romania is the largest producer of sunflowers in Europe, with around 1 million hectares sown, although interesting Romania also has some of the least productive farms in Europe.

They are everywhere – but life is short, so don’t forget to slow down and smell the …sunflowers. In travel, it is often the little things you remember anyway.

Romania Places To Visit - Romanian Sunflowers

Take in a new vista at every turn on this windy TransBucegi mountain pass through rural villages and traditional farmscapes. The TransBucegi is one trip you will never forget!

The last of the great Romanian highway passes, you should add to your bucket list but by no means the least impressive. Positioned in the south-central part of the country, the TransBucegi, well – traverses – the Bucegi Natural Park offering crisp mountain air, extensive vistas, and the chance for wildlife spotting if you are lucky. The road is 20 km long filled with bends and hairpin curves, and plenty of hiking trails should you wish to take a break and get even closer to nature.

The third highest altitude road in Romania, after the Transfăgărăşan and Transalpina, the construct of the highway only began in 2010 -meaning it hasn’t yet reached the fame of other highways in the country. Linking Sinaia with the Bucegi Mountains Plateau, ensure time to make stops at the “The Old Dames” (Babele) and the “Sphinx” (Sfinxul) rock formations, and for a short visit to the Caraiman Heroes Monument.

Beautiful Places in Romania - TransBucegi Mountain Pass

Rest your head in a converted barn set on a traditional farm in the middle of this mysterious region.

A new campsite and hostel in the beautiful village of Breb in the hills of Maramures in northern Romania that was one of our favorite accommodations … in the world! Babou Maramures is a small-scale rural hostel located in the traditional barn with as little changes made as possible. The only big change made was on the roof, which was renovated with thin pieces of wood -11,000 in total- according to the traditions of the region and the inside decorated with a mix of the local traditions and our owner’s own touches.

Inside is common areas, dormitories, and bathrooms. There is also an extensive garden, of which parts are used as a campsite where you will find chairs, hammocks, and places to enjoy a fire at night. Rustic and homely, Babou Maramures is the perfect place for travelers full of energy, lovers of activities, and hiking to experience the wild nature of historic Maramures.

Beautiful Places in Romania - Maramures Hotel

Take a moment to enjoy your surroundings, and a hot drink, at the serene Bâlea Lake below the highest mountain in Romania. Or in winter, enjoy the Frozen Bâlea Lake Ice Hotel!

Yet another of Romania’s astonishing natural wonders, Bâlea Lake is a magnificent, must-see landmark – even if it might be just a little too cold for swimming. The glacier lake is carved 2,034 meters up near the peak of the Făgăraș Mountains, aka ‘Transylvanian Alps.’

Its location in the Făgăraș Mountains means you’ll pass it if you take the TransFăgăraș Highway, but Bâlea Lake is worthy of a spot on this list in its own right. In the winter there is a ski resort next to the lake, but in the summer it is a great spot for hiking. There are a few hikes, but our favorite is the 10-kilometer route between Bâlea Lake to Bâlea Waterfall peppered with breathtaking scenery.

Ensure you have the right gear and checked the weather conditions before heading out. Or you can always just take a picnic lunch and enjoy its peaceful tranquility without the physical exertion.

Be transported back in time as you amble around the countryside and are transported back to a pre-industrial way of life.

Another weird and wonderful attraction of Romania is the seemingly endless fields of haystacks. But not just any haystacks. Romanian haystacks – yes, they are different! Over the centuries, this unique method of haystack building has become a bit of an art, meaning that haystacks of Romania have their own individual characteristics and are found nowhere else on earth. In the cold Romanian winter, animals and people would die if these haystacks didn’t survive, so great care is taken in constructing these stacks – some of which tower over four meters in height. They may look haphazard, but the methodology is very meticulous, and you can read about it here.

Seriously, it is fascinating, and these haystacks are a bit of an unsung hero, having embedded themselves deeply into Romanian culture. The 1989 demonstrations against Nicolae Ceausescu with led to bloody revolution, are referred to as the spark over a very dry haystack, and in the past, freedom fighters would hide in the haystacks to escape Turkish forces. It is also said that farmers had to be careful what their daughters got up to with the hired help, and suspicious fathers would often pitchfork the stacks to ensure their daughters’, ahem, modesty remained intact. Therefore many young men in the past bore a scar known as the love fork.

Tie up your shoelaces and get exploring the old town of Bucharest – one of the most liberal cities in Romania with a growing gay scene.

No guide to visiting Romania could be complete without mentioning it’s dynamic capital – though its suitability for a road trip is debatable.

For those who are less confident driving in hectic streets, use either pick up or drop off your rental car for your Romanian road trip in Bucharest and explore the metropolis on foot. We could produce an entire article on the highlights of Bucharest alone but suffice to say there are trendy cafes, grand villas, communist scars, and museums to keep you occupied for a few days.

A long way off the almost Disneyland-esque appeal post-communist capitals like Tallinn and Prague , the grit of Bucharest adds to its appeal and ensures its pockets of hidden glory are only found my the deserving. A mix of old and new, with art aplenty and a growing foodie scene – Bucharest is one of the last cities in Europe you can enjoy without hoards of tour groups spoiling it for everyone.

Romania Places To Visit in Bucharest - Palatul C.E.C

So there you have it – 50 of the Best Places to Visit in Romania! Perfect for a road trip and a few weeks of nature-loving. If you loved this, you might also like:

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25 Famous Australian Landmarks To Plan Your Road Trip Around!

Let us know what you think and the most b eautiful places in Romania – We could easily have made this list Top 100! This is a place where you are going to want to take your time to enjoy an epic Romania Road Trip (and sort your rent a car Romania) – and we know you are going to love it as much as we did!

place to visit in romania | romania most beautiful places | places to see in romania | best places to visit in romania

21 Beautiful Places in Romania

By Caitlin Morton

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This small, medieval town in Transylvania has a UNESCO-protected historic center and charming streets lined with colorful houses. But beware: It's also the the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, and is considered one of the world's most haunted cities .

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Lacul Roșu (Red Lake)

Located in the Eastern Carpathians, Lacul Roșu doesn't exactly look reddish in color, but you'll be too busy admiring the stunning mountain views and evergreen trees reflecting in the waters to care about semantics.

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Bran Castle

Located in Romania's Carpathian Mountains on the border between Transylvania and Wallachia, this national landmark is also known as "Dracula's Castle" , due to its similarity to the fortress described in Bram Stoker's novel.

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The Transfăgărășan

With extra-long S-shaped curves weaving through the southern Carpathians, it's no wonder the Transfăgărășan is regarded as one of the most thrilling highways in the world.

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Salina Turda

Not all beauty is found above ground, as proven by Salina Turda, a unique theme park that happens to be found in one of the world's oldest salt mines. Visitors head about 400 feet below earth's surface to find a bowling alley, a lake with paddle boats, a mini golf course, and even a Ferris wheel.

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Sarmizegetusa Regia

This archeological site is Romania's version of Stonehenge , the remains of ancient Dacia's capital during the first centuries B.C. and A.D. The city was built under the rule of King Decebalus, then was conquered by the Romans at the beginning of the second century A.D. (along with the rest of the Dacian kingdom).

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Statue of King Decebalus

Speaking of King Decebalus, you can find a 131-foot-tall stone rendering of his face along the Romanian side of the Danube . Although it looks like the stuff of ancient myths, it was actually created between 1994 and 2004.

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Culture Palace, Târgu Mureș

Built between 1911 and 1913 at the request of Târgu Mureş's then-mayor György Bernády, the Culture Palace features Art Nouveau architecture, bronze busts of composers, and intricate stained glass . The building has served many purposes over the years, from housing the county library to serving as a school of fine arts.

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This glacial lake situated 6,673 feet high in central Romania's Făgăraș Mountains is known for its two chalets (open year-round) and accessibility via the Transfăgărășan road.

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The Hotel of Ice

One more thing Bâlea Lake is known for: the Hotel of Ice. Built in 2005 and then rebuilt every year using water from the lake, the frozen hotel has an ice restaurant and bar, rooms and igloos with fur blankets, and an adjacent ice church where couples can get married and children can get baptized.

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Ceahlău Massif

The 6,257-foot-high Ceahlău Massif is one of the most renowned mountains of Romania, featuring beautiful views of the Eastern Carpathians and an incredible concentration of wildlife and plant species.

Cimitirul Vesel (Merry Cemetery), Săpânţa

You'd probably expect a Romanian cemetery to be pretty scary, but these sky-blue graves with hand-carved, painted crosses are anything but gloomy.

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Danube Delta

Formed by the meeting of the Danube and the Black Sea, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to wetland marshes, beautiful beaches, and over 300 species of birds.

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Corvin Castle

This 15th-century Gothic fortress has enough nightmarish features to rival Bran Castle—think impenetrable walls and a drawbridge on the outside, and a massive dungeon and torture chamber on the inside.

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Timișoara is the third most populated city in Romania (after Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca), attracting people with its public squares, swanky hotels, and frequent musical and cultural festivals.

Casino Constanta

Opened as a casino overlooking the Black Sea in 1910, this Art Nouveau masterpiece was used briefly as a hospital during WWII before becoming one of Romania's most beautiful abandoned spots .

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Cheile Nerei-Beușnița National Park

Declared a natural protected area in 2000, this 142-square-mile park in southwest Romania is known for its waterfalls and dazzling blue lakes.

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Vidraru Dam

Built in 1966 on the bank of the Argeş River, this massive, arched dam created Lake Vidraru (a body of water over six miles long) and has a pretty epic statue of Prometheus erected nearby.

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Palace of Parliament, Bucharest

With more than 300 ornately decorated rooms, the Palace of Parliament is the second-largest administrative building in the world (after the Pentagon).

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Visiting Braşov is like stepping back in time, with medieval clock towers and Gothic churches (like the famous Black Church) defining its skyline.

Sibiu's history dates back to the 12th century, when Saxon settlers made Transylvania their home. The Germanic architecture in the city's old town serves as a reminder of its origins (shown here illuminated by Christmas lights).

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Romania Travel Tips

Last Updated: November 2, 2023

I had no idea what to expect when I first visited Romania. Beyond the stereotypical vampire myths and legends of Transylvania, I knew shockingly little about the country.

What I found on arrival was a budget-friendly destination brimming with hearty food, amazing natural landscapes, and a fraction of the tourists found elsewhere in Europe .

The country has a long (and turbulent) history stretching back thousands of years. It was annexed by numerous powers over the centuries, including the Romans, the Byzantines, the Holy Roman Empire, Hungary, and the Soviets (who left a particularly dark stain on the country’s history).

While Romania used to be far off the beaten path, in recent years, the country’s tourism numbers have been increasing. That said, it’s still relatively undiscovered compared to countries in Western and Central Europe and its charming historic cities with cobblestone streets and medieval architecture is both affordable and rarely crowded.

I love Romania to bits and I strongly, strongly encourage you to take the country slowly and spend extra time here. It’s a massive country perfect for road-tripping, hiking, and history buffs.

This travel guide to Romania can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit.

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Typical Costs
Suggested Budget
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Where to Stay
How to Get Around
How to Stay Safe
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Top 5 things to see and do in romania.

The dramatic green peaks of the Faragas Mountains in Romania.

1. Explore Brasov

Located in the historical region of Transylvania and surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains, Brasov is one of the best-preserved cities in Romania. Due to its location in the center of the country, the city has long been a hub for commercial and cultural activities (it was even the birthplace of Romania’s national anthem). Today, the city is best known to travelers as the launching pad for trips to “Dracula’s castle” (which isn’t actually his castle but is still a fun one to visit). There’s a bit of everything here, including great hiking nearby, a beautiful historic center, and charming medieval streets. The city also offers a wide variety of food, from local Romanian fare to tasty international dishes. Stay awhile and really soak in this cultural capital.

2. Wander Bucharest

Bucharest boasts a healthy mix of Neoclassical and Beaux-Arts buildings and communist-style concrete blocks. By European standards, it’s a relatively young city, and in recent years has become a tech hub for local and European startups as well as digital nomads. There are plenty of museums, cemeteries, historical sites, shopping centers, and architectural sights to check out here. Some of the main sights include the gigantic Palace of Parliament, the Romanian Patriarchal Cathedral, the ethnographic Village Museum, Revolution Square, and the Ceausescu Mansion.

3. Trek the Fagaras Mountains

The Fagaras Mountains are the highest mountains in the Southern Carpathians and one of the most popular places in the country to go hiking. You can go on an awesome multi-day trekking experience that takes you along the main ridge of the Fagaras. The route is one of the longest and most continuous high-mountain traverses in Europe. Hikers can trek over Moldoveanu, Negoiu, and Vista Mare — three of Romania’s highest peaks that all tower over 2,500 meters (approximately 8,300 feet).

4. Visit Sibiu

Visiting Sibiu is like stepping back into the Middle Ages. Located in the historical region of Transylvania, the city was the capital of the region at various points throughout history. Cobblestone streets, ancient town squares, castle walls, and historic buildings — this city has everything you want in an old European city but without the crowds found elsewhere. It has a wonderful medieval charm, beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes, excellent food, and lots of green space. Don’t miss the Brukenthal Museum, the Citadel, and the unique Baroque eyebrow dormers that earned the city the nickname “The City with Eyes.”

5. See the painted monasteries in Bucovina

These Romanian Orthodox monasteries in the northeastern edge of the country are striking in that they have their exterior walls painted with elaborate 15th- and 16th-century frescoes featuring saints, prophets, Jesus, and other religious scenes. The walls are a masterpiece of Byzantine art and a pilgrimage destination for Romanian Orthodox believers. Eight of the monasteries have been designated a collective UNESCO World Heritage Site too.

Other Things to See and Do in Romania

1. see the alexandru borza botanic gardens.

Located in Cluj-Napoca , this massive botanical garden features rolling green hills, an observation tower, a rose garden, and even a Japanese garden. Founded in 1872, the garden is home to over 10,000 plants and spans 35 acres. There are greenhouses, ponds, and a wide variety of regional gardens with plants from all around the world. Admission is 15 RON per person (RON when the greenhouses are closed).

2. Get a cultural immersion in Maramures

This medieval region of Romania is one of my favorites. The traditional culture here is thriving and there is an interesting blend of local music, hand-made wooden structures, and colorful textiles to experience. Each village has a large wooden church and intricate wooden gates that are hand-carved (woodworking is a tradition here that goes back centuries). There are unique cemeteries as well, stemming from their belief that the afterlife is a beginning, not an end. For example, instead of solemn words on stone tombstones, there are blue wooden crosses with funny verses about the deceased. Don’t miss the Memorial Museum to the Victims of Communism & to the Resistance and the Elie Wiesel Memorial House (Wiesel was a famous Romanian-American who wrote the book Night about his experiences during the Holocaust.).

3. Hike at Mount Tampa

Towering above Brasov, this mountain is great for a quick hike if you’re looking to get a view overlooking the city. The mountain also has a large sign similar to the white “Hollywood” sign in Los Angeles . While the hike is pretty easy and takes less than an hour (the mountain is just 1,000 meters/3,280 feet high), there is also a cable car you can ride to the summit for 18 RON (round trip).

4. Visit the Romanian Patriarchal Cathedral

This cathedral in Bucharest was completed in 1659 and still has all of its original interior paintings and icons, in addition to some beautiful frescoes (most of the frescoes are reconstructions). The exterior façade was designed in the Brancovenesc style and the interior is lavishly ornate, spacious, and colorful. The acapella choir is particularly impressive to listen to. Admission is free but dress conservatively as this is a place of ongoing worship.

5. See the wildlife in Northern Dobruja

Tucked away in the southeastern corner of the county, this region is home to over 400 species of birds as well as lots of wildlife. It’s a hilly expanse with over a dozen lakes, and more to be found just over the border in Bulgaria . It’s one of the best regions to explore by car as you can hop from town to town. Be sure to spend some time in the coastal city of Constanta, the oldest continuously inhabited city in Romania (it was founded in 600 BCE).

6. Visit the Danube Delta

Flowing over 3,000 kilometers (1,864 miles) from its source in Germany , this is Europe’s second-largest and best-preserved delta (the Volga is the largest). The Danube stretches through 10 countries — more than any other river in the world — before draining into the Black Sea via Romania (and Ukraine ). The entire region is a UNESCO World Heritage site, making it a great nature preserve to explore if you’re looking to get away from the crowds. You can hike around the coastline or take a boat tour along the water for a better view. While the hiking is free, expect to pay around 210-300 RON for a full-day boat tour that includes lunch. A half-day tour without lunch is about 110-150 RON.

7. Celebrate Hora de la Prislop

Held every August, this festival is a celebration that brings together Transylvania, Moldova , and Maramures. Known more commonly as the Dance at Prislop, there is lots of traditional dancing and singing, beautiful costumes, parading, and awesome feasting. Dating back to the 1730s, the festival is a celebration of local and traditional culture and one not to be missed if you’re in the area. The festival is held in the remote Prislop Pass in the north of the country, where up to 50,000 people gather each year.

8. Hunt for Dracula in Sighisoara

Founded during the 12th century, this town is one of the most beautiful and best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. One of the eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the country, there are many towers, ornate churches, and burgher houses (traditional houses from the Middle Ages and Renaissance) to see throughout the colorful cobbled streets. This is also the birthplace of Vlad Tepes, more commonly known as Vlad the Impaler (aka Dracula). Be sure to climb the clock tower for sweeping views of the city. Other highlights include the History Museum, the guild towers (part of the city’s historic defenses), and the Scholar’s Stairway (a 17th-century staircase that was used by schoolchildren).

9. Visit Peles Castle

Constructed for King Carol I in the 1870s as a getaway spot, this castle (which looks more like an elaborate palace or manor house) is lavishly decorated and serves as a great reminder of the luxurious lives these rulers enjoyed. It was also the first castle in Europe to have electricity. After touring the elaborate grounds and gardens you can head inside to look at the art and antique collection, which includes over 4,000 arms and armor. A visit to the ground floor of the castle costs 50 RON, a tour including the first floor costs 100 RON, and a tour of the ground, first, and the second floor costs 150 RON. The temporary exhibitions are free. Guided day trips from Bucharest cost around 100 RON and include Bran Castle.

10. Tour a salt mine

Salina Turda is a salt mine in Turda that has been converted into a subterranean museum. The mine dates back to antiquity and was used throughout the Middle Ages. Learn how the workers got the salt to the surface and how laborious the process was. There’s a small underground lake at the bottom where you can rent a boat and paddle around and there are also games like bowling and mini-golf and even a Ferris wheel! It’s a good place to visit with kids. There is also a spa if you want to treat yourself to some natural remedies. Admission is 50 RON on weekdays and 60 RON on weekends. Skip-the-line tickets (including a guide and ride from Bucharest) cost 500 RON.

11. Explore Cluj-Napoca

Cluj-Napoca is pleasant university town located in Romania’s northwest and a big stopping point for people coming east from Hungary (it’s a hub for cheap flights too). The city dates back centuries, and there are a lot of historical churches, museums, and ruins (especially on Cetatuia hill) to visit. Because of the university here, there are a lot of affordable restaurants and a very happening nightlife in the city. I really liked the days I spent here. While not as historic and medieval as many of Romania’s other cities, if you’re looking for a city with a cool atmosphere in Romania, this place is it.

12. Explore Hoia Forest

This infamous forest has been the site of numerous ghost and UFO sightings over the centuries (as well as other paranormal activities). In fact, it’s often considered the creepiest forest in the world. Here, trees are warped and bent in unsettling ways that science hasn’t been able to explain. Take a stroll through the woods during the day for free (lots of locals walk and jog here) or do a guided night tour to learn about the unsettling paranormal events that have occurred here! Night tours cost 250-475 RON per person.

13. Unwind at Balea Lake

Located 90 minutes from Sibiu, Balea Lake makes for a worthwhile day trip from the city. Part of the Fagaras Mountains (often called the “Transylvanian Alps”), many people come here to hike or to ski during the winter (there is even an ice hotel built here in the winter). There are marked trails if you want to hike, offering both five-hour and nine-hour routes to some of the nearby summits. Located about an hour from the city, you can take a bus here for around 90 RON.

For more information on specific cities in Romania, check out these guides:

Brasov Travel Guide
Cluj-Napoca Travel Guide
Sibiu Travel Guide

Romania Travel Costs

The fairytale-esque Peles Castle, surrounded by trees, in Romania.

Accommodation – A bed in a 4-8-bed hostel dorm costs about 50-70 RON per night. A private room in a hostel costs at least 130 RON per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many hostels also have self-catering facilities if you want to cook your own food. Most hostels in the country don’t include free breakfast.

A budget hotel costs around 150-175 RON per night. You can find rooms cheaper, however, you’ll have to share a bathroom with other guests. Free Wi-Fi is common and many hotels also include a simple free breakfast as well.

Airbnb is available throughout the country with private rooms starting around 90 RON per night, while entire homes/apartments cost around 130-175 RON.

For those traveling with a tent, camping is possible around the country, though stick to dedicated campgrounds. Wild camping is legal, but theft is a bit common so it’s much safer to camp in designated areas. It costs 25-40 RON per night for a basic tent plot.

Food – Romanian cuisine is hearty, influenced by nearby Hungary and other Eastern European neighbors. Stews and sausages are common staples, with garlic sausage being especially popular. Sour soup, lamb, meatballs, and meat pies are other popular traditional meals. Wine is the drink of choice here as Romania is one of the largest wine producers in the world.

Most cheap (yet filling) restaurant meals (such as schnitzel with mashed potatoes and salad) cost around 25-45 RON for dinner, and 10-20 RON for breakfast. Soup is a good option for saving money as it costs around 17-25 RON and is pretty hearty (it also typically comes with a side of bread).

At a mid-range restaurant, a three-course meal costs around 80 RON. A burger or pasta dish is 35-40 RON while seafood or steak dishes typically cost 75-130 RON. A six-course tasting menu starts at 110 RON.

Fast food is around 6-9 RON for a burger or hot dog, while a combo meal (think McDonald’s) is around 30-40 RON. Takeaway sandwiches are around 20 RON.

A domestic beer out at a restaurant or bar costs around 8-10 RON, a glass of local wine is 7-18 RON while a bottle is 60-100 RON, and cocktails start at 20-35 RON. A cappuccino/latte is around 10-12 RON, a tea is 10 RON, and a bottle of water is 5-8 RON.

In tourist destinations like Brasov or Sighisoara, expect prices to be a little higher (but not too much).

If you buy your own groceries and cook your meals, expect to pay about 140-190 RON per week for groceries that include pasta, vegetables, chicken, and other basic staples. Save money by shopping at local markets or small roadside stands, which usually have the cheapest and freshest products. There are also several discount supermarkets in Romania, like Profi, Lidl, and Penny Market.

Backpacking Romania Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 140 RON per day, you can stay in a hostel, cook all of your meals, use local transportation to get around, take slow trains between cities, and do mostly free activities like hiking and free walking tours.

On a mid-range budget of about 265 RON per day, you can stay in an Airbnb, eat out for most meals, enjoy a few drinks out at the bar, take the occasional taxi, take buses or rideshares between cities, and do more paid activities such as museum and castle visits.

On a “luxury” budget of 440 RON or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, rent a car to get around, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in RON.

Romania Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Romania is already a very affordable country to visit. You’ll be hard pressed to spend a lot of money here. You really have to go out of your way to do so. But, if you want some ways to lower your costs, here are ways to save money in the country:

Stay with a local – Nothing’s cheaper than sleeping for free. Couchsurfing connects you with locals who give you not only a free place to stay but who can introduce you to all the great places to see and share their insider tips and advice. It’s a great community to be a part of.
Eat lunch out – Although the food in Romania is inexpensive in general, you can save more money by cooking your own dinners and eating your lunches out. A lunch menu in Romania typically consists of three courses (soup, main, dessert), and can cost as little as 30 RON.
Rideshare – If you’re flexible in your schedule, use the ridesharing service BlaBlaCar to catch rides with locals between cities (or countries). Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe (though sometimes rides don’t show up, which is why you need to be flexible). While buses might be cheaper, this is more fun and usually faster.
Shop at discount grocers – If you’re going to cook or are just grabbing a snack, save money by shopping at discount supermarkets like Profi, Lidl, and Penny Market.
Stay at Balkan Backpacker Hostels – There are hostels all around Romania that are a part of the Balkan Backpacker network. Book directly with these hostels and tell them you’re aware of the network to get 10% off your stay.
Hitchhike – Hitchhiking in Romania is safe and quite common. It’s not the fastest way to get around but it works if you’re on a budget. Just make sure you have a sign and that you trust your gut when accepting rides. It’s a great way to connect with locals while also saving money.
Take the train – The trains in Romania are slow, but they are the cheapest way to get around. If you’re not in a hurry, take the train. There are some night trains around the country as well if you’re going long distances.
Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is generally safe so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your reliance on single-use plastic. I suggest a LifeStraw since their bottles have a built-in filter to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Romania

Romania has tons of budget-friendly hostels. Here are of my favorite places to stay in Romania:

JugendStube (Brasov)
Sleep Inn Hostel (Bucharest)
PanGeea (Sibiu)
Burg Hostel (Sighisoara)

How to Get Around Romania

People walking around a cobblestone street in the Old Town of Bucharest, Romania.

Public Transportation – Buses and trams in most towns cost as little as 2 RON for a single journey, though the vehicles are often crowded and in varying states of disrepair. In Bucharest, the metro is 3 RON, though a day-pass is only 8 RON making it a much better deal. Weekly metro passes are 30 RON, which is worthwhile if you’re going to be using public transportation often (week passes are also available for the buses and trams but prices vary depending on your route).

In Brasov and Cluj, for comparison, a single-ticket ride on the public bus is 2-2.50 RON while a day pass is 12-14 RON.

Flights – Flying around Romania is an option if you’re in a hurry. You can often find great deals if you plan ahead. From Bucharest, you can reach pretty much any airport in the country for under 400 RON.

Bucharest to Cluj or Timisoara, for example, can be done for under 170 RON one-way. Ryanair, Wizz, and Blue Air (the Romanian low-cost carrier) are the three airlines to check for the lowest prices.

Bus – Buses connect all the major cities in the country, though since Romania is a large country, the journeys can be quite long. For example, the journey from Bucharest to Cluj costs around 100 RON and takes 9 hours. The journey from Bucharest to Brasov takes around 4 hours and costs 50-65 RON.

Contrary to most countries, the trains here are a cheaper option in many cases. If you’re on a budget, be sure to compare bus and train prices.

Train – Trains in Romania are a slow (but reliable) way of getting around. There are 3 different kinds of trains: InterCity (IC), InterRegional (IR), and Regional (R). The InterRegional trains are the fastest and nicest and likely the ones you’ll be using to travel from city to city.

Standard seats (second class) are usually quite comfortable and adequate for even long journeys. Wi-Fi and catering are not available so bring your own entertainment and food if you have a long journey.

As for prices, the 9-hour journey from Bucharest to Timisoara is around 100 RON while the trip from Bucharest to Cluj-Napoca takes about the same amount of time and costs a little less at 90 RON.

Rideshare – Uber is available in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Brasov, Timisoara, and Iasi. It’s the cheapest option if you need to get somewhere and don’t want to take public transit as the taxis in Romania charge an arm and a leg.

For longer distances, use BlaBlaCar. It’s a great (and safe) ridesharing service for intercity travels. Just download the app, make a profile, and search for rides.

Car – Car rentals are about 70 RON per day for a multi-day rental. Always be sure to lock your rental car when leaving, as rentals are targeted for theft more often than local vehicles. Drivers need to be at least 21.

For the best rental car prices, use Discover Cars .

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Romania is very easy. Just make sure you make it clear to the driver that you are hitchhiking, as some drivers will demand payment if it’s not made clear. For more information about hitchhiking in Romania, use Hitchwiki .

When to Go to Romania

The best (and most popular) time to visit Romania is during the summer, from June to August. Temperatures are hot and rain is infrequent. Expect daily highs around 30°C (86°F) during this time. These are the busiest months of the year for tourism, though it’s only noticeable in destinations like Brasov or Sibiu where tourism is the main draw. But even then, the crowds are much smaller than in Western Europe.

The shoulder seasons (late April-May and September-October) are great times to visit as well. You’ll beat the crowds and have much milder temperatures, which are perfect for anyone looking to head into the hills for some hiking. There’s more rain in the spring, but there are also stunning autumn colors in the fall which makes for a beautiful backdrop to your trip (especially if you’re traveling through Transylvania).

Winter in Romania can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing. Snow is common though not abundant, which can affect conditions if you’re traveling by car. While cities like Sighisoara and Brasov look quite charming in the winter, Bucharest has a much grimmer atmosphere due to the influence of Soviet architecture and their reliance on gray, bland concrete. In short, I wouldn’t recommend a winter visit unless you have a specific desire to enjoy the cold and quiet cities.

How to Stay Safe in Romania

Romania is a very safe country and crime against tourists here is rare. It’s a safe destination for solo travelers.

That said, petty theft can still occur so always keep your valuables secure and out of sight. Theft is most common when riding crowded city buses and trams (mostly in Bucharest) so take extra precautions when riding.

Additionally, take some extra precautions when renting a car. While the roads are safe, rental cars are targeted for theft more than local cars, so take precautions and lock your vehicle when you’re not using it. When booking, make sure your insurance covers theft.

While scams are rare, if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

Solo female travelers should feel comfortable exploring on their own, though the standard precautions apply (don’t accept drinks from strangers, don’t walk alone late at night, etc.). As in any city, never leave your drink unattended when out at the bar and never walk home alone if intoxicated.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Avoid isolated areas at night and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Romania Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Romania Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Romania and continue planning your trip:

The Cost of Traveling Far Eastern Europe

Finding More Than Dracula in Romania

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Top 10 Best cities in Romania to visit in 2024

November 2, 2023

When you start to plan your trip, you must include some of the best cities in Romania, but also countryside locations in your itinerary.

When you say Romania what comes to your mind for the first time? Do you think of idyllic landscapes, fairytale castles, or urban areas? And when you say Romanian cities, do you already imagine grey blocks of flats and crowded streets or rather beautiful buildings, neat parks, and interesting museums?

When you want to explore this country don’t forget the mountains and the natural places. But to have a full image, you should visit also the large cities in Romania. It is important to know that there are many beautiful towns in Romania. Many of them have developed harmoniously so as to receive their guests in the best conditions.

Which cities are worth visiting you may wonder. Here is a list of the most beautiful cities to visit in Romania. And you can also learn more about the reason why they are included in this top.

Best cities in Romania

The biggest city in romania: bucharest.

Bucharest, the capital of Romania, lags behind when compared to other cities in the country. But if you come with an open mind, you will see that it also has a special beauty that can attract visitors. And once you start exploring it and overlooking its flaws, you will discover a modern city. It also has a romantic heritage from the royal period. Bucharest was called “little Paris” once. A walk on its central boulevards will show you why it received this name.

The capital attracts with its delicious and varied restaurants. It also amazes with the contrast between its communist neighbourhoods and those with villas from the interwar period. It has some unique tourist attractions, of which it is worth stopping at:

The Palace of the Parliament in Bucharest

Parliament palace Bucharest - Best cities in Romania

One of the largest buildings in the world is the Parliament Palace, the seat of the Romanian Parliament. It is also the heaviest if you consider the materials used to build it . There are several tours available inside ( here you will find the details). It is better to schedule your visit by phone the day before.

Bucharest old town

The oldest part of the capital, the old centre is known today, especially for its nightlife, restaurants, and pubs. Among all these are scattered old buildings, real architectural jewels. Some of them have adapted to the current landscape of the area. The others are true oases of history in the middle of the Bucharest tumult.

When you are walking around here, I recommend you to stop at Carousel. Carousel is a beautiful bookstore that has probably become the most photographed building in the city. You can also make a stop at Manuc’s Inn for a traditional Romanian lunch. Carousel and Manuc’s Inn are two excellent examples of how old buildings take on a new breath. Among the oases preserved over time is the Stavropoleos Monastery.

The old centre of Bucharest hides a lot of mysteries. I invite you to discover them one by one during a guided walking tour . This tour was designed for those who like to wander on narrow streets.

Calea Victoriei

A boulevard that can bring the capital the nickname of a beautiful city in Romania is Calea Victoriei. Almost the entire architectural heritage of Bucharest can be admired here. The whole history of Romania is represented by at least one building.

Starting from Victoriei Square you will meet the Cantacuzino Palace, today the George Enescu Museum. The Romanian Athenaeum, and the Royal Palace In Bucharest (National Museum of Art) are the next ones. Down Calea Victoriei you will also meet the Revolution Square and the National Military Circle. The last two important buildings are the CEC Palace and the National Museum of History. Some of the most important museums in Bucharest are on Calea Victoriei.

Parks in Bucharest

Although less neat than in other cities, the parks in Bucharest manage to attract both locals and external visitors. Locals come here in search of nature. External visitors want to discover the city beyond its museums. There are several such green places in Bucharest that also hide historical places. Cismigiu Park Bucharest and Carol Park are home to pieces of history. And most of their visitors do not know much about it.

If anyone would make a list of Romanian cities, Bucharest won’t enter the top 3 most beautiful ones. But it is the largest city in Romania. And it also has enough tourist attractions to be worth a visit for a few days!

Constanta, the largest city in Dobrogea

The largest port in Romania, Constanta, is a very popular destination during summer. Due to its location on the Black Sea coast, it attracts many tourists. Once there, you realize that the city means more than this. The fact that it is located that way only increases the charm it had anyway.

In the centre, you can visit the old part of the city (Ovidiu Square and the area around it). The old town is a mix of different cultures that have been gathered here over the years. It also has Roman influences, because the city hosts Roman ruins.

The symbol of Constanta is the old casino. The casino is a beautiful building from the 20th century, overlooking the Black Sea. After wandering the crowded streets and admiring the port, you can enjoy the sun on the long beach in Mamaia, one of the best beaches in Romania, or even on the beach of Constanta.

You can visit Constanta during the Dobrogea and Danube Delta 4-days tour

Sinaia – one of the most beautiful small towns in Romania

Although Sinaia is considered rather a mountain resort by the vast majority of people, it is actually a town, a small town that is true. Her great luck was that King Carol I fell in love with the landscape here and decided to build his summer residence in the middle of the forest.

This is how Peles Castle appeared. It only took this happy event for most of the important people of that time to want to have a holiday home next to the king. And so the beautiful villas in Sinaia appeared, the park developed and the Casino in Sinaia was built.

Everything has been preserved to this day and the fact that this architectural marvel is framed by the high peaks of the Bucegi Mountains makes you understand why even today so many people want to go to Sinaia – it is one of the best resorts in Romania!

Discover Sinaia during a day trip to Peles Castle and Bran castle

Iasi, the largest city in Moldova

Iasi is one of the large cities in Romania, but it is often overlooked when it comes to holidays. I have rarely heard anyone go to Iasi just for the sake of the city and it is a great pity. It is the biggest city in Moldova and an important religious centre.

It is enough to search for attractions to visit in Iasi to immediately discover a lot of churches recommended. The Cathedral in the Center becomes a place of pilgrimage for Saint Paraschiva, but there are other monasteries and churches in the area where you can stop.

The city has hosted some important writers in Romanian literature and you can visit here places that inspired them. The house of Ion Creanga in Ticau is the place where the writer began to write his childhood memories. And in Copou Park, in a quiet walk on the alleys, you will meet Eminescu’s linden tree, the tree that is often mentioned in his poems.

But perhaps the most impressive place to visit in Iasi is the Palace of Culture, a beautiful newly renovated building that houses several museums related to the history of Moldova. The Palace of Culture in Iasi is open to the public today.

Brasov Romania

If we do not take into account Bucharest, which has the advantage of having a well-connected airport, Brasov is one of the most visited cities in Romania when it comes to foreign tourists. Some arrive here by chance coming to Bran Castle in search of Dracula, but there are also many who know about Brasov and come especially to discover its well-preserved medieval beauty. But they can also enjoy interesting attractions near the city, like the Racos volcano.

Brasov boasts the lively Piata a Sfatului, its defence towers preserved from ancient times, the houses that have remained standing for centuries, and the Black Church, the Gothic building that gained its name after the fire that darkened its walls.

Some of the tours reaching these cities in Romania are:

2 weeks in Romania Unesco tour

3 days in Transylvania medieval tour

Bucharest city tour one day long

Private tour to Constanta from Bucharest

Private tour to Constanta and the Black Sea

Sibiu, the most beautiful city in romania.

Considered by many to be the most beautiful city in Romania and my favourite, Sibiu has a certain charm that you will not find elsewhere. Its cobble-stone alleys, the Large Square (Piata Mare) surrounded by colourful old houses, and the Bridge of Lies decorated with red geraniums are just three elements that make any visitor want to discover more.

Besides its well-known attractions , it has other less-visited places. Two days are enough to explore it, but after that, you can stay a few more days to discover the beautiful villages in Transylvania located around Sibiu Romania. You will definitely come back here!

Explore Sibiu during our Best of Transylvania tour

Sighisoara, the beautiful medieval fortress in Transylvania

Listed in the UNESCO patrimony, the medieval Sighisoara citadel is today one of the most beautiful places in Romania for foreign visitors, but also for Romanians. The defence towers belonging to the various guilds that lived in the city (Tailors Guild, Shoemakers, etc.), the stone wall that surrounds it, and the access gates so well preserved are the ones that keep the medieval charm that surrounds you once you pass the Clock Tower.

In the fortress, you will discover only alleys paved with cubic stone, renovated old Saxon houses, but keeping their old characteristics and very few cars.

You can also visit the covered staircase on which you have to go up to the Church on the hill and to its evangelical cemetery. If you are interested to explore some medieval towns in Romania, Sighisoara occupies the leading position at that top.

Medieval Transylvania tour in 3 days will show you the Sighisoara fortress

Art nouveau in Romania: Oradea

Known as the Art Nouveau city of Romania, Oradea has flourished in recent years and it’s now one of the best towns to visit in Romania. Today, the buildings surrounding Piata Unirii have taken on a new look and it is a pleasure to walk its large streets admiring famous palaces and churches.

Read also: Road trip in Romania – 5 unique itineraries

Among the places to visit in Oradea, you should include the Black Eagle Palace, a construction known for the inner glass passage, and which takes its name from the eagle emblem that guards the entrances to this passage. In the centre, the landscape is complete with cafes and restaurants where you can relax.

Oradea also has a medieval history marked by the fortress that gives the city its name, a fortress completed in the 11th century. Today, its remains can be explored, and inside it is housed the Faculty of Visual Arts.

If you arrive in the area, you can spend a few relaxing days without getting bored. Nearby, the thermal water resort Baile Felix boasts large swimming pools and spas ready to satisfy any lover of this type of vacation. Here you will find some of the best spa hotels in Romania.

Cluj Napoca, the largest city in Transylvania

Cluj Napoca is the second-largest city in Romania and the most modern one. It offers even better living conditions and jobs than in Bucharest sometimes and that is why it is considered the best city to live in Romania. Cluj Napoca also has some interesting attractions for tourists .

Starting from Piata Unirii you can easily reach almost all important tourist attractions by walking. The first would be St. Michael’s Cathedral located right in the square. And if you want to gain strength before you start exploring the city you can stop to eat or enjoy a dessert in one of the restaurants and pubs open on the sides of the square.

From Unirii Square, you can continue to Matei Corvin’s House and then to Museum Square, a place where it seems like a holiday forever due to the brightly coloured terraces and the animation here. The Museum Square is surrounded by the Franciscan Church and the History Museum of Transylvania.

Also in the centre, you can visit the Metropolitan Cathedral guarded by the statue of Avram Iancu in front. Those with good physical condition can admire Cluj from above climbing the Cetatuia hill. Cetatuia took its name from a fortification built here in the 18th century, of which only a few ruins remain today.

A little further from the centre you can visit the Botanical Garden and, right on the outskirts of the city, the most haunted forest in the world: Hoia-Baciu forest.

Explore Cluj Napoca during our Romania Grand tour in 10 days

Targu Mures

Targu Mures struggles in the shadow of his star brothers from Transylvania: Brasov, Cluj Napoca, and Sibiu. After a visit here, you will come to the conclusion that it is worth including it a longer holiday in Transylvania.

Targu Mures has a medieval fortress restored just a few years ago, with one of the most beautiful evangelical churches in Romania. It also has a city centre decorated with interesting buildings, imposing churches, and a zoo. If you decide to stop for several days, you will find hotels and guesthouses for all tastes and pockets.

These top 10 most beautiful cities in Romania is subjective, but it offers you an idea about what cities to visit in Romania. We can design a great itinerary for your next trip so you can enjoy the best of Romania and offer you a tour that will make you fall in love with this country. If you want to travel on your own, you can find here other suggestions for places to visit.

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The Most Visited Cities in Romania

In 2014, Romania received over 1.9 million foreign tourists. This country is home to a number of historical, natural, and urban tourist attractions. Here, tourists can visit the Danube river, the Black Sea, the Carpathian mountains, and 6 UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This country is also home to Dracula’s castle, beautiful Romanian Orthodox churches, and medieval architecture throughout its cities. This article takes a closer look at the most visited cities in Romania.

7. Constanța

The famous Constanta Casino in Constanta, Romania.

Constanta is located along the coast of the Black Sea and has a population size of 283,872. This city was established around 600 AD, making it the oldest continuously inhabited city in the country. Tourists come here for its archaeological ruins, museums, monuments, and beach. The Roman Mosaics can be found here, a 9,150-square foot building filled with mosaics that once served as the city’s commercial center. Other popular tourist attractions in Constanta include: the Hunkar Mosque, built around 1867; the St. Peter & Paul Orthodox Cathedral, which displays Greco Roman architecture; and the Genoese Lighthouse, built in 1860 in honor of the Genoese merchants of the 13th century.

Iasi is located in eastern Romania in the Moldavia region and has a population size of 290,422. Archaeological evidence suggests this area was occupied by humans as far back as the 6th century AD, although its name was not recorded until 1408. This city is known as a cultural center of Romania and tourists come here to learn more its culture. One of the most popular attractions here is the Iasi National Theater, which is the oldest theater in the country. It was originally built in 1840 and today, reflects a Neoclassic style on the outside and Baroque and Rococo styles on the inside. This city also offers a number of museums, including: the Romanian Literature Museum, the Union Museum, and the Natural History Museum. Additionally, the Palace of Culture is popular with tourists and is listed on the National Register of Historic Monuments. It was built in a Neo-Gothic style between 1906 and 1907 and covers an area of 368,510 square feet. It is home to 4 museums and a number of other attractions.

5. Timișoara

Timisoara is located in western Romania and has a population size of 319,279. It is a popular tourist destination due to its historic neighborhoods, unique architecture, and multiple festivals. These festivals range from literature to cinema and music to art. Many tourists to this city enjoy visiting its many synagogues, cathedrals, and palaces. Additionally, Timisoara is home to several city squares, perhaps the most famous of which is Saint George square. For those visitors interested in royal lifestyles, a visit to Huniade Castle is a good trip. This castle was built between 1443 and 1447 to take the place of the old 14th century castle. Today, it is home to the History and Natural Sciences section of the Banat Museum.

4. Cluj-Napoca

Cluj-Napoca is located in the northwestern region of Romania and has a population size of 324,576. After suffering a period of political and economic downturn in the 1990s, this city is now recognized as an important historical, cultural, academic, and business hub in the country. It is home to the Babes-Bolyai University, the largest in Romania and its diverse culture is displayed through the wide range of activities here, from theater to visual arts. The most popular place to take part in these activities is the National Museum of Art, which today, can be found in Baroque-style former palace of Count Banffy. Cluj-Napoca is also home to the Saint Michael’s Church, a Gothic-style building built in the 14th century. In the 19th century, the Neo-Gothic bell tower was added to the church, making it the tallest church tower in Romania. Some of the most well known monuments around the city include: the statue of Avram Iancu, the Central Park fountain, and the statue of Matthias Corvinus.

Sibiu is located in the Transylvania region of Romania and has a population size of around 147,245. This city lies along the Cibin river and in 2007 was nominated as the European Capital of Culture for the year, which drew a large number of tourists from around the world. This city offers well-preserved Medieval-era military fortifications and is near the Fagaras mountains, which are popular for their hiking opportunities and ski resorts. In order to check out the fortifications, one of the best ways is to head to the southeastern section of the city. These fortifications are connected by a number of passageways and tunnels. Visitors to Sibiu also enjoy visiting the Grand Square, one of the largest in Transylvania. The Brukenthal Palace, built in the late 1700s, is located in this square and holds the National Brukenthal Museum, which is one of the oldest in the world. Since 2007, Sibius has held a traditional Christmas market, which is the first in Romania and considered one of the most beautiful in Europe.

Brasov is located in the central region of Romania. It is surrounded by the Carpathian mountains and has a population size of 369,896. This is a popular tourist destination because its central location makes reaching other areas in the country easy for travelers. Some of these nearby attractions include the monasteries of Moldavia and the wooden churches of Maramures. In the city, tourists can visit several sites, including: the Rope Street, the narrowest street in Romania; Catherine’s Gate, the only medieval-era city gate; the Black Church, a Gothic style building; and the Bran Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle.

1. Bucharest

Bucharest, the capital of Romania, is located in the southeast region of the country and has a population size of over 2.1 million, making it the country’s largest city. One of the most popular areas within the city is the historic city center and one of the most well-known buildings is the Palace of the Parliament, which is the largest in the world. It houses the National Museum of Contemporary Art. Other popular museums include: the National Museum of Art of Romania, the National History Museum, and the Military Museum. The Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum offers a unique take on a museum visit; it is an outdoor museum located in Herastrau Park and has 272 farm houses from the different regions of Romania.

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23 Things to Do in Romania in 2024: Popular, Cool and Unique!

There are so many things to do in Romania and places to visit - but most tourists have no idea where to start! Most people come with low or no expectations about our country because it's still one of the lesser-known tourist destinations in Eastern Europe.

But they soon realize it’s a beautiful holiday destination with friendly people, lots of tourist attractions and cool things to do! So put Romania on your 2024 bucket list and use this article for inspiration! What is Romania known for? In this article we'll look at:

famous tourist cities such as Bucharest, Brasov or Sibiu
popular attractions such as the Palace of Parliament, Bran Castle, Corvin Castle, Peleş Castle, Transfagarasan Highway and UNESCO World Heritage sites
tourist regions known for their cultural heritage: Transylvania, Maramures and Bucovina

But besides the usual touristy places to visit, we’re also going to tell you where to go and what to do so you have an authentic local experience of Romanian culture, for example:

how to experience the traditional rural life our country is famous for
why our wooden churches, painted monasteries and fortified churches are more than spiritual places
best places to try local cuisine
why a visiting a merry cemetery is a good idea

And, finally, there are some unique things to do in Romania such as:

seeing wild animals and brown bears... in the wild!
visiting a haunted forest filled with mysterious legends
exploring the incredible Danube Delta

The list is long because our country is BIG with many things to do :) but if you're wondering - our personal favourites are 5, 8, 12, 14, 17 and 19.

Before we start, if you're looking for practical info check our guide on how to visit Romania for the first time or the best time to visit .

Table of contents

1. Visit Dracula's Castle aka Bran Castle
2. Romania's most beautiful castle: Peleș Castle

3. A Gothic Masterpiece in Brasov: The Black Church

4. discover the cultural heritage of sibiu, 5. go hiking in the wild carpathian mountains, 6. romania’s most famous natural site: the danube delta, 7. discover how good romanian wines are, 8. watch brown bears... in the wild, 9. admire the 500 years old painted monasteries of bucovina, 10. go on a slow and picturesque steam train ride, 11. a famous unesco world heritage site: sighișoara citadel.

12. Try traditional Romanian food & tasty vegetables

13. Visit Merry Cemetery... wait, what?

14. ride an underground ferris wheel in turda salt mine, 15. visit europe’s biggest building: palace of parliament in bucharest, 16. a famous tourist attraction: transfăgărășan highway.

17. Go out in Bucharest's Old Town

18. See the Romanian Sphinx in Bucegi Mountains

19. experience authentic romanian village life, 20. visit romania’s haunted forest - for real, 21. cantacuzino castle of the richest romanian family, 22. best among medieval castles: corvin castle, 23. poenari castle - the real dracula castle.

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1. Visit Dracula's Castle aka Bran Castle

Of all the remarkable places to visit in Romania, Bran Castle remains the most popular with international tourists and by far one of the most famous castles in our country. Although this Transylvanian castle was an important medieval fortress and home to Romania's Queen Marie, it's far better known for one fictional resident: the vampire Count Dracula .

Honestly, nobody's sure how much Bram Stoker was inspired by Bran Castle or Vlad the Impaler who is one of the most famous people from Romania … but that hasn't stopped Hollywood movie fans and tourists renaming it to "Dracula's Castle."

This is the #1 tourist attraction in Romania so brace yourself for crowds of tourists... Bran Castle turned into a tacky place with cheap Dracula souvenirs, low-quality wines, chocolate and so on.

Lots of tours and non-Romanian travel guides will give you made-up Dracula stories too. But if you’re looking for the real history of the castle, Vlad the Impaler's life and even info about Poenari Castle - then our guides will do that.

Bran Castle Tours

Dating back to the 13th century, Bran Castle was built to protect the nearby city of Brașov and the Carpathian crossing into Transylvania from foreign invaders. There are four floors and 57 rooms tourists can explore. Each room is full of historic furniture, armour and clothing - so anyone passionate about medieval history will have a good time here!

2. Romania's most beautiful castle: Peleș Castle

If Bran Castle speaks of Romania's medieval heritage, then Peles Castle in Sinaia is a symbol of our short-lived royal family. It was built in the late 19th century at the orders of King Carol, the first Romanian king, to serve as summer residence for Romania's royal family.

The castle was built in neo-Renaissance architecture with beautiful stained glass windows and was considered an engineering masterpiece for its time. There are 160 rooms in total for guests to explore over 2 floors, with art works you'd find in art galleries, impressive crystal chandeliers and an armoury with pieces dating back to the 15h century.

During the communist regime (1947-1989) it was untouched which means it's well preserved - and worth adding to your plan. Be sure to check out Pelisor Castle nearby, the little brother.

Peles Castle Tours

A personal favorite of ours, Peleş castle is one of the best castles in Romania . A good guide can tell you how in the span of 100 years 3 distinct principalities under foreign domination united into a democratic, flourishing monarchy that was eventually overthrown by communist dictatorship in 1944.

If you’re planning to visit Bran Castle - a stop in Brasov's Old Town is a must. The city is one of the most popular tourist places to visit in Romania. It's famous for its charming, well-preserved medieval atmosphere surrounded by mountains.

The city’s iconic landmark is the Black Church which is also a great example of medieval German-Saxon architecture. This imposing Gothic church finished in 1477 is not just one of Romania's top attractions but it also serves as the largest place of worship for Lutherans.

The Black Church is hard to miss on a walking tour through the Old Town area of Brasov. Towering over the main square and imposing from afar, inside you'll find many impressive Romanian artifacts including a huge mechanical organ, a wide array of Oriental carpets, and an intricately carved pulpit dating back to the late 1600s.

There are lots of things to do in Brasov , arguably one of the most visited cities in Southeastern Europe and known as Romania's 'darling city'.

There are lots of things to do in Brasov county: medieval castles in Romania (Bran Castle, Rasnov Fortress [currently closed for restoration], Peles Castle, Rupea Fortress, Sighisoara Citadel), go hiking or on wildlife trips. It’s a great city to use as a base for 3 days during your trip to Romania.

Tours & Day Trips in Brasov

One of the best things to do in Transylvania is to visit the famous city of Sibiu.

With significant Saxon influences, an aristocratic air to it and a vibrant cultural scene, Sibiu competes with Brasov as Romania's top tourist destination. Even if I've been in both many times, it's hard to pick my favorite :)

Sibiu's Old Town with its Lower Town and Upper Town is an architectural delight with many cultural sights, artisan shops and chic cafes. Make sure you have enough time to walk - or get lost - on its streets!

The Brukenthal National Museum is housed in an elegant building in the Large Square, the heart of its Old Town. Originally the residence of an 18th century aristocrat of Saxon descent (and rich art collector) named Samuel von Brukenthal who lived in Sibiu.

Brukenthal opened the doors to his home in the early 1800s to share his art collection with the community as he was a big fan of educating the masses. Today the Brukenthal National Museum in the city center is an important tourist attraction in Romania and cultural hotspot.

In contrast, the open-air museum Astra Traditional Folk and Civilisation Museum received 3 Michelin stars for the amazing cultural experience it offers as an ethnographic museum. Over 400 houses from all over Romania and "rural technology" will show you why the Romanian village is at the heart of our culture, literature and national spirit.

Tours & Day Trips in Sibiu

With an airport served by many low cost flights from all over Europe and conveniently located in the heart of the country, there are lots things to do in Sibiu . Popular attractions such as Corvin Castle, Sighisoara Citadel and the fortified churches of Transylvania, or Transfagarasan Highway are nearby so this is a perfect place for a city break in Romania. Now, let's switch gears:

55% of Romania's territory is occupied by the Carpathian Mountains starting from foothills of 800m high and reaching 2,554m at their highest point called Moldoveanu Peak. So our country is not only an amazing - and undiscovered - hiking destination but also a great place for mountaineering adventures, wildlife watching and all outdoor activities (MTB, via ferrata, enduro trails, camping, canyoning).

The Romanian Carpathians offer a wide variety of trails for everyone, from city folk looking to be out in nature, to amateur hikers and experienced mountaineers looking for a challenge.

Lots of natural attractions too: the Babele and Sphinx in Bucegi Mountains, Zarnesti Gorges, Turda Gorges, Fundatura Ponorului, 7 Stairs Canyon, as well as many waterfalls, glacial lakes and caves. And 12 peaks over 2,500m waiting to be summited :)

Best part? You'll discover untouched sceneries and traditional mountain villages untouched by civilization. You'll disconnect fully - which is why I think it's one of the best things to do in Romania and one of my favourites :)

Hiking & Trekking Trips

But because Romania's Carpathian Mountains are so wild and undiscovered - tourist hiking infrastructure is severely underdeveloped and unfriendly even for locals! Check our guide for hiking in Romania to find out how to plan your trip, why you should hire a licensed mountain guide to stay safe and where to go.

OK - every country has castles, churches and Old Towns. But how many countries with a Delta do you know of?

A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Danube Delta is an amazing place to see in Romania as long as you don't underestimate its logistics

The Delta formed where the Danube river flows into the Black Sea and it's the 2nd largest in Europe and has the 3rd largest biodiversity in the world exceeded only by the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the Galapagos Archipelago in Ecuador.

The Danube Delta is considered one of the largest and best preserved deltas worldwide. In addition to its picturesque canals, numerous lakes and soft marshes, it is home to over 3,450 animal species which includes over 300 species of birds, 1,700 of plants, many fish and animals, including wild horses in the sub-tropical Letea Forest.

A natural reserve unlike anything else in Europe The Danube Delta is one of the best places to visit in Romania if you're into wild natural sceneries and have an interest in birdwatching and enjoy scenic boat trips. And the sunsets in the Delta offer breathtaking views - pure magic!

This combo makes it a perfect destination for those who appreciate the beauty of Mother Nature, photographers and, of course, wildlife conservation enthusiasts :)

If you want to visit the Romanian Delta then hiring a local tour guide to take you on a boat ride is a must because the region is impossible to navigate on your own without local knowledge and... a boat! There's no public transport in the Delta and few locals speak English.

So if you want to experience the best of the Delta and do birdwatching you'll need a knowledgeable guide with a specialized boat. Beware - speed boats scare animals! That's why we created an amazing 4-day itinerary and organise small group tours. You'll visit the Delta the right way while protecting nature and giving back to the community.

4-Day Danube Delta: Birds, Letea Village & Lakes [Group Trip]

Start from: Tulcea

The Delta is a 4h drive from Bucharest and you'll need 2-3 days to actually see something in the region because of its complicated logistics.

2-Day Danube Delta & Birdwatching Tour from Bucharest

Start from: Bucharest

Oh, and the Danube Delta is also known for its unique fish cuisine (hint: it's not grilled fish!) so this is a great spot to discover new recipes.

You’ll be surprised to know that Romania is Europe’s 5th largest wine producer! With vast hills bathed in Sun and moderate weather, our country's geography is ideal for vineyards. And Romanians love to socialise over a glass, or two, or three... :)

In the last 15 years the quality and variety of our wines and the culture surrounding wine drinking has exploded. Besides popular large-scale producers who go for the whole spectrum of wines, there are many craft, artisan small wine makers who focus on 2-3 types which are exceptional. This will be a great souvenir from Romania to surprise those back home.

Just 1h away from Bucharest is the Dealu Mare region, famous for its vineyards and premium producers. Some are also in Transylvania though less accessible. Most of them are housed in aristocratic 18th century villas overlooking picturesque vineyards.

Oh, and the wines have amazing value(taste)-for-money, comparable to what you’ll find in France or Italy. So you know what this means, right? A wine tasting is one of the most underrated things to do in Romania!

The Wine Tradition of Romania: Premium Wine Tasting in Dealu Mare

Bike & Wine Tasting Trip in Bucharest Countryside

Start from: Dealu Mare wine area (or Bucharest)

Unfortunately due to high demand and low capacity, most wineries organise wine tastings only for groups of 4 people or more. So if 2 people show up it’s unlikely they’ll take them. But luckily for you we developed strong partnerships with some premium wineries so if you want a Romanian wine tasting paired with local cheeses for two - we can arrange that!

Let’s go back to the mountains! One of the more unique things you to do in Romania is wildlife watching - especially brown bears of which we have the largest population in Europe!

As many areas in the Carpathian Mts. are untouched and wild, lots of animals roam these lands freely: bears, deer, lynx, bisons, boars, wolves and many more. Romania is known as Europe’s last wilderness reserve with two documentaries about this: Wild Carpathia and Untamed Romania.

And that's part of the reason why it may be dangerous for hikers to go on their own.

But if you want to see wild animals in their natural habitat while staying safe we have a selection of wildlife tours most of which take place in Brasov county. Our specialist wildlife guides will take you deep in the mountains.

85-100% chances of seeing bears on this tour:

Short Bear Watching Experience from Brasov

Start from: Brasov

60-80% chances of seeing bears and other animals on this tour:

Bear Watching Safari in the Wild

70-100% chances of seeing animals on this unique trip in Romania's wildest area run by a conservation non-profit:

3-Day Hiking & Wildlife Trip at an Eco-Luxury Private Cabin in Fagaras Mts

Start from: Rucar, Arges county

Please note - these tours are NOT regular hiking trip: you will go on unmarked trails or difficult terrain to high-altitude observation points. Difficulty is higher, logistics complex and prices reflect that.

Here's how animals have fun in Piatra Craiului National Park

Remember - Mother Nature can't be controlled or predicted, so seeing animals is not guaranteed. But our wildlife guides are experts with a good sense for animal movement. They will do their best to increase the chances of you seeing them and will give you a live lesson about tracking animals their natural habitat. So this is a great way way to learn about Mother Nature - especially for teenagers and young people!

Birdwatching can also be done in some forests close to Brasov where our specialist bird guides can take you on a private trip. Or in one of the many national parks in Romania .

Seeing wild animals is definitely a unique activity in Romania - but you can also see friendly animals such as sheep and cows during a hike in Piatra Craiului National Park (close to Brasov) or Apuseni Natural Park (close to Cluj-Napoca). You'll probably go hiking in traditional villages and try local specialty cheeses cold cuts and homegrown vegetables from the villagers.

Ok - back to culture! There are many beautiful churches in Romania tourists can visit because spirituality plays an important role in our culture and life. But among them the Painted Monasteries of Bukovina definitely stand out.

Built between the 15th and 16th centuries, these monasteries are known for their impressive exterior frescoes which depict scenes from the bible and are incredibly well preserved despite their age - almost by miracle!

So vivid and unique these paintings are that they are part of World Heritage . There are 6 painted monasteries to visit each located in small villages in the Bucovina region: Voronet, Humor, Moldovita, Pataruti, Probota, Suceava, and Sucevita.

Each of the monasteries’ frescoes use different colours to depict saints, major Biblical scenes and local legends. The quality and style of these paintings is truly impressive considering how old they are. And because they're so well preserved with only minor works carried out over hundreds of years, religious people believe these churches have significant spiritual power and meaning.

A great place to start visiting the Romanian painted monasteries is the UNESCO world heritage site of Voronet which is the most famous among them for its unique 400-year old unchanged blue nuance that depicts Judgement Day in an impressive frescoe.

5-Day Complete Tour of Traditional Maramures & Bucovina

Start from: Cluj-Napoca

Even though the monasteries are among Romania's most famous tourist attractions, please keep in mind they are also active religious sites served by monks and nuns who live there. Romanians are very religious people so visiting these sights require that you be respectful of local customs and not use selfie sticks or act like an ignorant tourist.

Finally, the logistics of visiting the churches is a bit more complex too: you'll need at least 3 full days to travel to Bucovina region from Bucharest and have enough time to visit the monasteries and other attractions in the area, of which there are plenty. You may want to check our guide for public transport in Romania to understand why we keep saying logistics are complicated... :)

The Semering Oravita-Anina train in Timisoara

The best way to enjoy Romania’s natural beauty is through slow travel. Hiking or going by car on countryside roads may be what comes to mind - but there’s a better alternative: old steam trains moving at 50 km/h through beautiful natural areas not accessible any other way! How cool is this?

The Mocanita Steam Train in the North-Western Maramures region is probably the most famous.

A 3-hour long ride (with multiple stops) through valleys, hills and woodlands will make you appreciate nature’s simple beauty - best enjoyed slow, of course! This narrow railway was originally used for forest exploitation activities and the Mocanita (name of the train) is the only one capable of navigating it.

2 or 3 Days in Maramures: Wooden Churches, Traditions & Village Life

A similar steam train ride can be found in the neighbouring region of Bucovina and is called Hutulca.

Hotspots around Timisoara: Bigar Waterfall & Oravita-Anina Steam Train

Start from: Timisoara

But my favourite train ride is lesser known – and more beautiful – the Oravita-Anina Semering train, South of Timisoara (pictured above). The Semering (name of the train) will take you on a route where picturesque scenery with mid-level mountains and open valleys dotted by traditional villages.

Pro tip: the best time I like to go on these train rides is during mid-September - late October when the autumn foliage offer spectacular views!

Sighișoara is a small city in the heart of Transylvania where you'll find one of the most culturally significant and popular tourist places to visit in Romania: Sighisoara Citadel another UNESCO heritage site with a long history to tell.

Situated on a small hill overlooking the plains of Transylvania, this fortified citadel from the Middle Ages was built in the 12th century by German Saxon merchants to protect their trading routes. It's one of the best-preserved medieval citadels in Europe and once you see the Clock Tower you'll understand why.

One of the best things to do in Romania is to get lost on a walking tour of the cobbled streets in Sighisoara Citadel. Oh, I forgot to mention: in these medieval houses people still live! My favorite time to visit this place is during winter in Romania when the cold air, snow-covered streets and few tourists create a magical medieval atmosphere.

Besides the many photos you'll take, make sure to check the seven figurines of the Clock Tower the main attraction in Sighisoara Citadel, which represent the days of the week - but who are those figurines? Go with a guide, there is much history to learn here :)

Conveniently located in the heart of Transylvania, we have day trips that will take you on a guided tour to Sighisoara from every city.

12. Try traditional Romanian food & tasty vegetables

When people think of things to do in Romania they tend to think of castles (and vampires), communist architecture and... who knows what else! While the typical tourist attractions are undeniably awesome, what most travelers don’t know about is just how tasty Romanian food is. Why?

Bucharest Street Food Tour: Farmers' Markets & Hidden Streets

Start from: University Square

Because Romanian cuisine is a unique mix - a reflection of our agrarian roots and self-sustainable households at the intersection of Turkish/Balkan, Austro-Hungarian and Russian influences. Our traditional dishes have surprising, delicious flavours reminiscent of grandma's comfort food.

Pro tip: if you're a vegetarian or vegan - you're in luck! Thanks to the long Orthodox Lent (fasting) periods which some Romanians strictly observe, there are lots of recipes without meat or any animal products. just ask for mancare de post or religious fasting foods and you'll enjoy filling, nutritious and delicious recipes!

Romanian local food (especially outside major cities) is wildly appreciated by Western visitors who've had enough of processed and tasteless industrialised food. They are delighted by the delicious taste of simple, organic ingredients (a label that doesn't exist in the countryside!) like eggs, milk, veggies, honey or meat from household animals. Hand-to-mouth farming is widely practiced in traditional regions such as Transylvania, Maramures or Apuseni.

In simpler terms - if you want to know the real taste of an unsprinkled tomato or let your kids discover the flavours of freshly picked veggies or fruits from a farmer's garden - come to Romania!

Food & Wine Tours

Authentic Romanian dishes you should try include sarmale, mici and ciorba (sour vegetable broth), mamaliga (polenta) with shepherd's cheese and sour cream, or stuffed peppers. That is if our appetizers (vegan-friendly) such as eggplant salad, zacusca or baked beans paste won't already fill you up! And then you get to ciorba a vegetable sour broth, with or without meat, that's so filling and will warm you up on the inside!

And, like all agrarian people, there's a variety of cheese (white/fresh, aged or smoked), cured meats and sausages to discover, usually served with seasonal veggies! And leave room for desert: papanasi, sweet cheese pies or homemade sweet bread (cozonac) filled with nuts, poppy seeds or Turkish delight.

We've got food tours in all major cities where our guides will take you to farmer's markets where, besides the cultural shock, you'll also get to try authentic Romanian food. And if you're looking to experience more of Romanian cuisine - go in the countryside! Few restaurants in the cities can compete with that!

Our mission is to support responsible tourism in Romania and that's why most our trips include home-cooked meals which is, for me, arguably the most interesting thing I want to experience when visiting a country besides typical tourist sightseeing.

And to top it off -- since 2010 specialty coffee culture and consumption boomed in Romania. Check our list with the best coffee shops in Romania so you finish your meal in style - like Romanians do!

One of the more unusual things to do in Romania is to visit a cemetery with a happy and funny view on death: the Sapanta Merry Cemetery is like an open-air museum in the village of Săpânța, Maramures region. Unlike the usual sombre and grey cemeteries, the Merry Cemetery is filled with colorful tombstones where the story of the deceased is told in a humorous way - with life lessons that will make you think!

Pro tip: the stories are written in Romanian so without a local guide to translate there's really no point in visiting

Started in the 1960s the Merry Cemetery is a unique tourist attraction in Romania and Europe for its unorthodox approach despite being located in one of the most religious regions of Romania.

For context: on Sundays people in Maramures wear their best folk costumes to attend service in their UNESCO wooden churches.

There’s an interesting reason this 'happy' cemetery exits. And if you visit with our guide , a native of Maramures, he'll tell you what that is and also take you to the local artisan who makes these crosses. Though the merry cemetery is an interesting place for tourists to visit in Romania, don't forget that, well - you’re in a cemetery! - so be respectful of the dead.

40 minutes South of Cluj-Napoca in the city of Turda is one the most popular and interesting tourist attractions in Romania: Salina Turda as the locals call it, a salt mine dating from Roman times that now houses an insane, unexpected amusement park! So this day trip is one of the many things to do in Cluj you should put on your list!

In this huge underground complex you'll discover impressive caverns and corridors carved in salt where carefully-placed lighting installations create a magical feeling! In addition to its famed Ferris wheel, this underground amusement park has a bowling alley, a mini golf course and even an underground lake where you enjoy a unique boat trip... underground! So this is a perfect place to visit on a family holiday in Romania .

Turda Salt Mine Tours

If this wasn’t enough to convince you to visit Turda Salt Mine, you should know that breathing salty air is good for your lungs and prescribed as treatment for people with any kind of respiratory issues. So spending 3 hours in this popular place will be one of the best things to do in Romania for your health!

Bonus: go on a boat trip in the underground like, a unique thing to do in Romania and in the world!

When travelers start searching for places to visit in Romania, images of the Palace of Parliament in Bucharest inevitably show up. This national monument was the most ambitious and infamous megalomanic dream of communist leader Nicolae Ceaușescu - that's why it's commonly referred to as Ceaușescu’s Palace or House of People.

An entire neighbourhood was razed and huge human, material and financial sacrifices were made over the course of 6 years in the 1980s to make space for it. And Romanians are still divided on the value and importance of this most famous attraction...

The building houses Romania’s democratically elected Parliament. With over 1,000 rooms, 4,500 chandeliers and 12 stories high - only the US Pentagon building has a larger on-the-ground footprint than the Palace of Parliament! And the inside is beyond impressive. Undoubtedly this is one of Romania's most famous tourist attraction, so it's a must see even if only from the outside.

Tours inside are led by official staff but they'll only tell you facts about the building - nothing about the communist regime or Ceausescu. So read our blog about communist Romania if you want to find out more historical facts, communist attractions to visit (e.g. Palace Square where the 1989 revolution started!) or go on our dedicated communist tour to get the 'real deal:'

Complete Bucharest Communism Tour: Palace of Parliament & Ceausescu's Home

Or visit this unique time-bubble communist apartment to feel what it was like to live in communist Romania:

Museum of Communism: A Time-Capsule of Ordinary Lives

And in case you're wondering is Bucharest worth visiting? the short answer is - YES. For the long one - read our city guide on the many things to do in Bucharest and decide for yourself.

The capital of Romania is by far the largest city and is worth visiting even if only to see go for a short walk in the city centre, for example in University Square and then on Calea Victoriei Boulevard to see some of the most beautiful buildings in Romania such as the Romanian Athenaeum. You can also visit the Village Museum - one of the best Romanian museums - in case you don't have enough time to go in the country.

The ultimate sightseeing – and driving – experience in Romania is a road trip on Transfăgărășan Highway - I know, a mouthful to pronounce! :)

3 hours drive from Bucharest or 1h30 from Sibiu or Brasov, this 150 km scenic road crossing Fagaras Mountains was built during communist years for military purposes using approx. 6,000 tons of dynamite - and much, much effort.

Transfagarasan highway is one of the main tourist places to visit in Romania thanks to an episode of the popular BBC show Top Gear when Jeremy Clarkson named it the best road in the world! Driving enthusiasts will absolutely adore the many twists and turns of this incredible drive - even if someone else is driving! - and everyone will enjoy the jaw-dropping sights of Fagaras Mts. the wildest and tallest in Romania!

Transfagarasan Road Tours

The road ends at the glacial Balea Lake reaching 2,200m altitudes and offers breathtaking views of Transylvania’s plains in the far distance - in contrast with the nearby peaks over 2,500m altitude. This is also the starting point for many hiking routes into Fagaras Mts. so it tends to get very crowded. Keep in mind the road is open for driving only from 1 July - 30 October. Outside this period it can be visited only coming from Sibiu or Brasov and taking a cable car over it - if weather permits - to the glacial lake Balea.

Local tip: less famous but equally spectacular are Transalpina and Transbucegi roads - two other high-altitude driving roads that offer more than just a driving experience!

17. Go out in Bucharest's Old Town

Another unique thing to do in Romania is to experience Bucharest's diverse and intense nightlife. The trendiest area with today's youth is (ironically!) the Old Town area in the city center.

On Lipscani Street you will see both locals and tourists hopping from bar to bar since there are over 50 in the area. Stag and bachelorette groups from all over Europe come here to party for good reason: Romanians love going out!

But even if you're not a big fan of clubbing - there are many beautiful restaurants, hip bars and cosy wine bars in Bucharest. And during Summer months most of them turn into beautiful urban gardens! And you'll probably go out for dinner anyway - so why not go for drinks after in a different place? You'll see Romanian local life at its best!

Bucharest Nightlife Tour: Craft Beer & Hip Bars

Pub Crawling & Bar Hopping in Bucharest Old Town

Start from: Lipscani street

If the Old Town is for everyone and tourists - for a luxury clubbing head to the Northern part of Bucharest. In clubs such as Fratelli, Gaia or on the shores of Herestrau Lake, you’d better dress well to not feel out of place. Local tip: the real Bucharest nightlife starts after 11-12 pm - read our post on places to go out in Bucharest to find out more!

Pro tip: during Summer months Bucharest's nightlife scene moves to the Black Sea resorts ! In Mamaia beach resort you'll find the posh clubs by the beach while in the hippie resort of Vama Veche people go just to party all day, night and weekend long!

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The Sphinx is a mysterious natural rock formation located high up in Bucegi Mountains . It's accessible via cable car from the small town of Busteni or on our hiking tours.

Local legends claim the rock represents a god who was worshiped long ago by our ancestors the Dacians before the Romans conquered these lands. There are also stories that link the rock to aliens! In any case, many believe the location possesses a special energy and so there are always lots visitors to this unique attraction in Romania's mountains.

The Romanian Sphinx is also the subject of folklore and conspiracy theories that make it incredibly intriguing. So, if you are into paranormal activity or just want to see what all the fuss is about - this popular tourist attraction should be on your list of things to do in Romania!

Nearby are also the Babele rock formations and on a 4h hike (one way) you can reach Omu Peak the 7th highest in Romania at 2,505m altitude.

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You haven’t experienced authentic Romanian culture until you spend a couple of days in the countryside, a real life village museum. You'll disconnect from civilisation, slow down and reconnect with living in tune with nature's rhythm.

Villagers in some areas have preserved their ancestral way of life, customs and values - which is why the Romanian village represents the heart of our culture.

Believe it or not, life in the small traditional village is one of the things Romania is so famous for - even if it's not your typical popular tourist destination. It's not 'a place to go' - it's something to experience! It's why King Charles owns 3 restored village houses Viscri, Breb and Valea Zalanului. Going into traditional regions such as Transylvania, Maramures and Bucovina, or in the mountains in Apuseni (close to Cluj-Napoca), in Marginimea Sibiului (close to Sibiu) or the mountain villages of Magura, Pestera and Sirnea (in Brasov county) is a favorite holiday activity for locals. And it should be for you as well!

Day Trip: Village Life in Sibiu Countryside

Start from: Sibiu

2 Day Hiking in Apuseni Natural Park: Culture & Local Life

Start from: Cluj-Napoca or Sibiu

Some small villages in these areas are true time-capsule even if you have all the modern amenities: shepherds will greet you, roosters and cows will wake you up, and public transport is reduced to horse drawn carts with locals are happy to give you a ride. All this against a backdrop of fortified churches...

Fresh vegetables and fruits from people's gardens and 'in-house' animal products will create simple, delicious meals. And - best of all – this is the perfect place for you to slow down, relax and enjoy a quiet, peaceful life with beautiful scenery.

2-days of Agro-Tourism in Transylvania at a Local Farm

Start from: Cobor or Brasov

Day Trip to Traditional Mountain Villages: Magura & Pestera

Rural regions of Romania may look poor or underdeveloped from the outside but that's part of their charm and - to your surprise - you'll see locals are much happier, welcoming and authentic than city folks. Untouched by consumerism or the business of our modern, tech-heavy society, their way of life is the purest example of resourcefulness and enjoying the simple pleasures of life.

Local folklore, crafts and traditions handed down from one generation to another are well preserved especially in the regions of Maramures and Bucovina. If you're looking for authentic Romanian culture these are the best places to visit for this, especially around Easter or Christmas in Romania .

However, once again, there's no tourism infrastructure for non-locals: few people speak English, no public transport, cash is king and without a local guide with connections in local villages, it's harder to experience the beauty of these place. It's like going into the mountains of Morocco to see berber tribes, the remote villages or Vietnam or in the Amazonian jungles without a guide...

That's why we support inclusive tourism in Romania by including local services, meals and visits in our trips, so local communities benefit too while you have an authentic Romanian experience.

Let’s close the list with one of the most unique places to visit in Romania: Hoia Baciu forest near Cluj-Napoca. The forest was named after a shepherd and his entire flock of sheep went missing without an explanation! In 1968 the forest gained even more popularity when a military technician claimed he saw a UFO flying over the forest. And there are plenty of other stories and myths in local folklore which our guide knows.

A Night Tour of Haunted Hoia Baciu Forest

Start from: Cluj - Napoca

What also makes this place unique is the unusual shape of trees and weird natural layout you don't normally see in a forest. One of the strangest spots is a clearing, a perfectly round-shaped patch of land in the middle of the forest (!) where not a single ounce of vegetation grows - without any human intervention! Many locals are truly afraid to go into the forest and some have said voices and sounds can be heard at night. Hence the ‘haunted forest of Romania’ title.

To be honest the first time I heard about this "tourist attraction" I was skeptical. Until I went on a tour in the haunted forest of Romania with a "show me what you've got!" attitude with our guide who is truly passionate about this unique attraction in Romania.

It was unlike any other night-walk I've ever been on, with an eerie feeling to it. Besides hearing the stories about the Hoia Baciu forest and seeing trees like nowhere else, our guide will also give you special measurement equipment for paranormal activity - so you'll see for yourself! Whether you’re superstitious or not - this is definitely one of the most unique things to do in Romania!

Not too far from Peleș Castle is the lesser-known Cantacuzino Castle . It belonged to Prince George Cantacuzino considered to be the richest person in Romania in the late 19th century and part of a famous political dynasty.

He built Cantacuzino Castle in the unique Romanian architectural style known as Brancovenesc (or Wallachian Reinassance for connaisseurs). The castle has now become an international sensation thanks to another Hollywood hit: it was featured in the popular Netflix series Wednesday directed by Tim Burton.

Corvin Castle, also known as Hunyadi Castle, stands as a striking example of Gothic-Renaissance architecture in South-Western Transylvania.

It belonged to John Hunyade, a military ruler of Transylvania and father of the king of Hungary whose statue you can admire in the city of Cluj-Napoca.

Corvin Castle is one of Europe's largest castles and best preserved, with a history filled with mysterious legends. Besides it being stunning, I think it's better than its famous rival from Brasov county, Bran Castle.

Corvin (Hunyadi) Castle Tours

Visitors can explore the impressive structure and learn about its transformation from a military fortress to a noble residence. The castle's rich history, coupled with its stunning architecture, many rooms, tall columns and defense towers, makes it a must-visit attraction in Romania.

Perhaps lesser known among so many medieval castles, Poenari Castle is still famous thanks to its real connection with Vlad Tepes.

Perched atop a cliff on the road leading to Transfagarasan Highway, it offers a rich glimpse into Romania's medieval history. It was the stronghold of Vlad the Impaler which is why it's called the real Dracula's Castle.

The ruins of Poenari Castle offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes if you're ready to climb the 1480 steps there!

Whoa, that’s a long list!

And even if we haven’t mentioned other tourist attractions in Romania (like or , the Mud Volcanoes , Dacian Ruins ) or great things to do for outdoor adventure fans: (rock-climbing, local craft workshops, caving, MTB or via ferrata).

I think this should be enough to get you started with planning your trip to Romania.

On our website you'll find lots of resources, articles and tours and if you need help with your itinerary send us a message – happy to help!

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Bucharest Old Town Sunny Summer Day - Romania

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Rugged stone churches and dazzling monasteries dot a pristine landscape of rocky mountains and rolling hills. Transylvanian towns have stepped out of time, while vibrant Bucharest is all energy.

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Romania, Castelul Peles (Peles Castle), facade seen from gardens set against blue sky

Peleş Castle

Over 40 years, dozens of builders, artists and wood-carvers brought Peleş Castle into existence. The neo-Renaissance masterpiece was commissioned by…

Merry Cemetery

Săpânţa village boasts the unique 'Merry Cemetery', famous for the colourfully painted wooden crosses that adorn the tombstones in the village's graveyard…

Palace of Parliament

The Palace of Parliament is the world’s second-largest administrative building (after the Pentagon) and former dictator Nicolae Ceauşescu’s most infamous…

Palace of Culture

Iaşi's premier attraction and symbol of the city is the grandiose Gothic-revival Palace of Culture that dominates the horizon at the southern end of B-dul…

Endless Column

The Endless Column, one of Constantin Brâncuşi's best-known and most celebrated works, sits at the eastern end of Calea Eroilor (20 minutes on foot from…

Arbore Monastery

This Unesco-protected church in the village of Arbore receives a fraction of the visitors of the other painted monasteries and hence feels more private…

Museum of the 1989 Revolution

This is an ideal venue to brush up on the December 1989 anticommunist revolution that began here in Timişoara. Displays include documentation, posters and…

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10 Spectacular Cities to Visit in Romania | From Big Cities to Quaint Villages

Romania is a spectacular country. So many people visit and only make it to the biggest capital city of Bucharest. Although Bucharest has its charms, there are so many other wonderful cities and towns that are often overlooked. Whether you are looking for big cities with lots of partying, cute and quaint spots with cafes on every corner, or cultural hubs, there is a little bit of everything. You can travel across the country and find wonderful cities and towns everywhere you go.

1. Bucharest – The Capital City of Partying

Bucharest is a city unlike any other. Known as the party capital of the world, there is certainly no shortage of clubs, casinos, and other more questionable establishments. If that is what you are looking for, there is certainly plenty of it around. However, the city also offers many other fun things to do that are on the more docile lines.

Top 5 Things to Do in Bucharest (Besides Partying)

If you are looking to go to Bucharest and enjoy the party scene, this is not the list for you! But there are plenty of other fun things to do in Bucharest even on the breaks from all the partying.

10 Spectacular Cities to Visit in Romania

1. Visit Therme Spa

No trip to Romania is complete without visiting Therme Bucuresti , the thermal luxury spas located just 20 minutes outside of Bucharest (fairly close to the airport). This spa complex is unlike anything you will find in other countries around the world. This spa center costs only about $30 per person for an entire day in the multi-level spas. They have thermal pools, both indoors and outdoors, countless different types of saunas (including Himalayan salt saunas), red light therapy, swim-up bars, massages, and even an indoor water park area with countless different water slides.

2. Enjoy the Cafes and Restaurants

The city is speckled with cafes and restaurants, with some of the most famous being the bookshop café Cărturești Carusel in Bucharest. It boasts a beautiful design and is right in the city center. Be sure to check out Grand Café Van Gogh if you are looking for a delicious and beautifully decorated café.

3. Relax at the Rooftop Bars

Rooftop bars (and bars in general) seem to be a common theme in Bucharest and it would be a shame to miss out on the experience during your trip. Check out the famous Nomad Skybar in Bucharest city center that becomes a lively nightclub as soon as the clock strikes midnight.

4. Explore the History

No visit to Bucharest is complete without visiting some of the monuments and exploring the history. You can visit the Jewish Quarter of the city, take a look at the Palace of the Parliament, and see the Macca – Vilacrosse Passage. Don’t miss out on the National Art Museum or the National Museum of Roman History as well!

5. Go Shopping

Romania is a famously inexpensive destination and what is one of the best things to do when traveling somewhere affordable? Shopping! The city boasts many second hand and vintage shops as well.

2. Brașov – Quaint Coffee Shop City in Transylvania

Brașov is a quaint and picturesque city with a lovely pedestrian walkway lined with colorful buildings and mountain scenery. Located in Transylvania, you will see how different it is from the Soviet-style Bucharest.

Top 3 Things to Do in Brașov

Whether you are visiting just for the day or are spending a few nights in this central Transylvanian town, there are plenty of fun things to do.

1. Visit the Black Church

Located right in the city center, you will find the Black Church which is one of the most beautiful gothic structures in Romania. If you visit the main center you will see the church surrounded by coffee shops.

2. The Narrowest Street in Europe

Although you probably never considered this, did you know that the narrowest street in Europe can be found in Brașov. It is called Strada Sforii if you want to pass through.

3. Enjoy the Cafes and Food

Cafes define Brașov and you will find countless coffee shops and restaurants hidden away on the back streets of the city. Check out CH9 Specialty Coffee which gives you a direct view of the Black Church while you sip. If you’re hungry, don’t miss eating at Bistro de l’Arte which offers incredible food in a lovely atmosphere.

Check out the full guide to visiting Brasov here: 10 Terrific Things To Do in Brasov | Quaint City in Transylvania, Romania

3. Sibiu – Most Charming City in Romania

Sibiu, located in Central Romania is undoubtedly one of the most charming cities in the country and arguably in Europe. With a history dating back to the 12th century when it was founded by German settlers, you won’t be surprised to find the influence of German culture in the city. It boasts idyllic streets and promenades, charming squares, and one of its most famous aspects…. houses with eyes. The unique architecture of the city ended up creating a window design on many of the houses in the town that truly gives the appearance of the houses having eyes. So don’t be surprised if you feel that you’re being watched.

Besides that, you can also visit the Evangelical Cathedral and the clock tower that goes along with it. Continue strolling through the city to find café lined streets, open air museums, marketplaces with countless beautiful Romania goods, and so much more. It is a fun city to visit just for a day or to spend a few days relaxing and enjoying the unique vibes that it has to offer.

4. Sigișoara – City Out of a Fairytale

Sigișoara is most certainly one of the coolest towns you can visit in Romania. The city itself is a UNESCO Heritage Site that is beautiful and magical at the same time. The town looks like something that came right out of a fairy tale, with its Medieval architecture and colorful buildings and streets. Not only can you enjoy the history of the Ottoman citadels and 14th century clock towers, but you can also learn about the vampires and Dracula. You can even visit Casa Vlad Dracul. This is the home of the real historical figure Vlad the Impaler, better known as Dracula. Whether you are looking to enjoy the more haunted side of this city or the cute and quaint architecture and designs, you can have a little bit of both.

5. Timișoara – The Little Vienna of Romania

Located on the very western end of Romania, you will find the city of Timișoara. This city has earned the nickname of “Little Vienna” or “City of Flowers” as you will see by the pristine architecture and countless amount of stunning gardens. It is a lively and fun city, full of students and energetic vibes. Street art, trending cafes, and the colorful umbrella lined streets are spotted throughout the city. Due to its location, Timișoara is a very multicultural city, with influences from Hungary, Austria, Serbia, and Germany.

6. Peșteana – Romanian Log Cabin and Treehouses

In a very, very small town in the middle of Romania you will find one of the most unique and amazing stays in all of Romania. You can sleep in a treehouse or a log cabin at the amazing Airbnb in the town of Peșteana. These log cabins and treehouses are so incredible and high in demand that you need to book them very far in advance if you want a chance to stay here on your visit. Honestly, this town is worth a visit just for the experience of this Airbnb. But the added perk is that is located near some amazing attractions as well such as Castelul Corvinilor (Corvins’ Castle).

7. Sinaia – Mountain Views and Castles

Located in the Bucegi Mountains of Transylvania, Sinaia is a lovely, small village that offers countless ski resorts, short trips to castles like Peleș castle, and a great starting point for mountain treks and e-biking. It is an incredibly beautiful and quaint town that is definitely worth a visit. Whether you are just passing through or staying the night, you are certain to enjoy its unique beauty. If you were a fan of the Netflix film Wednesday, you can also stop by in the nearby town of Bușteni and see the real life Nevermore Academy and where the series was filmed.

8. Băile Tușnad – Thermal Spa Town

Located in Harghita County, Romania, Thermal spas, Băile Tușnad is a beautiful place to visit. It is quite literally the smallest town in Romania based on population, however, it has a lot to offer. If you are looking for stunning views, thermal spas, and a great countryside location, this adorable town is perfect for you. Take a trip to the mountains and lakes, visit some castles, or relax in the thermal spas.

9. Miercurea Ciuc – Dog Sledding Central

Miercurea Ciuc is one of the oldest and coldest cities in Romania. Located in Harghita County, it is a fairly large city with one major amazing thing to offer. The city itself is not the most beautiful in Romania, however, it is a nice place to spend a day or two if you are visiting the area. We went there specifically to go dog sledding. Zoltan is the only one who offers this in Romania is based in the mountains outside of Miercurea Ciuc. If you are visiting, you definitely need to go dog sledding. We went out of our way for the experience and managed to explore the town a bit in the process.

While visiting we stayed at a great Airbnb , watched a local hockey game (Miercurea Ciuc is famous for its winter sports), and were close enough to visit Lake St Ann. This volcanic crater lake (the only of its kind in Romani) offers beautiful views, bear watching, and picnic grounds.

Check out the full post on the dog sledding experience: Dog Sledding in Romania | Experience of a Lifetime

10. Cluj-Napoca – Gateway to Transylvania

Although Cluj-Napoca is mostly only known by people do the airport that is located there, the city itself also has some cool things to offer. It is certainly not Romania’s most beautiful city, but it does boast a long and interesting history along with trendy restaurants, bars, and cafes. As the second largest city in Romania, after Bucharest, it does offer many similar amenities as the country’s capital city. It is most famous for being the starting point for tourists looking to explore Transylvania and the unique scenery and history in some of the smaller towns of the area.

Looking for some more incredible things on your trip to Romania? Check out: Visiting Romania? 15 Memorable, Unique, and Adventure Activities

Lots of Love and Safe Travels,

Danielle and Brooke, Colorful Sisters

Colorful Sisters

viewfromoverthehill

Thank you again for taking me along on this fabulous adventure. Cheers, Muriel

Such a great blog. Very informative content about the spectacular cities to visit in Romania. The content is very helpful for the people who are planning to visit Romania. Thank you for sharing this great content. Please read my blogs too.

Romania indeed offers a spectrum of charming cities to explore. Bucharest is more than just a party hub; it boasts unique experiences like the Therme Spa, cozy cafes, and historic landmarks. Cluj-Napoca’s artistic vibe and cultural treasures make it a must-visit. Romania has much more to offer than meets the eye!

Agreed! Amazing places that we could visit many many times!

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Discover the best attractions, food, outdoor activities, events, accommodations, and travel tips to make the most of your romania trip., top attractions, food & drink, outdoor activities, festivals & events, where to stay, travel tips.

For those who value the freedom to explore at their own pace, renting a car can be an invaluable asset. It allows you to uncover hidden gems beyond the typical tourist trails and gives you the flexibility to change plans on the fly. Find the best rental deals here .

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Romania travel: Five Instagrammable cities to visit this summer

Irina Marica

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We all love to take pictures when travelling, keep memories of the beautiful places we visit or the special experiences we live. and more often than not, the best photos get uploaded on social media to impress or inspire our virtual friends. with its exceptional natural landscapes or man-made attractions, romania is an excellent option for travel photography. below we've selected five of the most instagrammable cities in the country to add to your travel list this summer (or any other season)..

A former capital of Moldova and a cultural, educational and artistic hotspot of today's Romania, Iasi is definitely worth a visit. In summer or any other season of your choice. Just take a simple, long walk on the city's streets, and you will most surely end up taking lots of pictures to share with your social media friends and followers.

Iasi is home to a large number of old buildings with impressive architecture and many stories to tell. Probably the most famous is the neo-Gothic Palace of Culture, located right in the centre of the city, but the Roznovanu Palace, the National Theater or the many museums, churches and monasteries are also worth a visit. Just make sure that your camera or phone are fully charged.

The list of Instagrammable spots also includes Unirii Square, the Copou Park and the Botanical Garden, the Golia Monastery (with its tower that offers fantastic views), or Esplanada Elisabeta (also known as Râpa Galbenă) at the bottom of Coupou Hill.

Iasi is located in the region of Moldova, eastern Romania. You can get there by car (it's about a seven-hour drive from Bucharest), train, or plane (the closest airport is the Iasi International Airport).

Alba Iulia also has a special place in local history, mainly because the Great Union was sealed here in 1918. It is also one of the oldest settlements in Romania. In other words, a charming city that can inspire visitors for some unique shots.

The main attraction is the 18th-century Alba Carolina Citadel. A trip through the star-shaped fortress is a trip back in time, with plenty of spots to photograph and stories and secrets to discover. It's definitely a "must-include-in-my-holiday" destination, so don't hesitate to add it to your travel itinerary. And maybe book an entire day for your tour of the fortress.

Alba Iulia is situated in the historical region of Transylvania, about 350 km from Bucharest. You can get there by car, train, or plane (the closest airports are Sibiu International Airport, the Cluj International Airport, and the Targu Mures International Airport).

Also located in the famous region of Transylvania, Sighisoara is known as one of the most beautiful and well preserved inhabited citadels of Europe. Its historic centre, which deserves more than a single photo, has been included on the UNESCO World Heritage list as a "fine example of a small, fortified medieval town which played an important strategic and commercial role on the fringes of central Europe for several centuries."

With old, cobbled streets winding through the old town, this place is perfect for colourful pictures that for sure will trigger reactions from your followers on Instagram or your friends on Facebook. Probably the best spot for photos is the Clock Tower (go up to the top for a breathtaking view of the town), but make sure also to add the Scholars' Stairs and the Church on the Hill to your list.

Sighisoara is located about 300 km north of Bucharest and can be reached by car, train, and plane (the closest airports are Sibiu and Targu Mures).

Sibiu is the kind of city that steals your heart. It attracts large numbers of visitors every year, being often promoted as a top travel destination in Romania. This year, for example, it ranked fifth in the European Best Destinations competition.

With its medieval charm, towers, narrow passages, colourful houses, and fortified churches, Sibiu is a great place for photos that you just have to share on social media. Probably the best spot for taking pictures is the Council Tower, but the entire historic centre is worth a visit.

Don't miss the Bridge of Lies - the kind of place that also has fascinating stories to share with your Instagram photos. One of the legends says, for example, that if a person tells a lie while on it, the bridge will collapse.

And, of course, take a photo or two of the city's famous "houses with eyes." The "eyes" watching the visitors and locals alike from the houses' roofs have become a real trademark of Sibiu and one of the city's main attractions.

Sibiu is located in central Romania, not far from Alba Iulia or Sighisoara. It can also be reached by car or train, as well as by plane.

Cluj-Napoca

Located in northwestern Romania, Cluj-Napoca is nicknamed the "heart of Transylvania" or the "unofficial capital of Transylvania." It is, for sure, one of Romania's most important cultural, academic and business hubs, but also a city with a rich tourist offer.

With a rich history, the city is home to an impressive collection of museums, monasteries and churches, some of them located right in central Unirii Square - a must-visit spot for pictures from Cluj-Napoca. You just can't miss the Saint Michael's Church and the equestrian statue of Matthias Corvinus in front of it. Smaller streets around Unirii Square can also take you to splendid inner gardens of old houses and isolated churches.

The city also hosts one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in Romania - an ideal place for pictures of unique flowers or trees. And maybe you'd also want to share with your virtual friends a photo or two from the first smart street in Romania (a good photo caption that will most likely boost your engagement rate on Instagram).

Tourists from Bucharest, for example, have to drive about 7 hours to get to Cluj-Napoca. However, the Transylvanian city can also be reached by train and, the fastest option, by plane.

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With many different sides to it, Romania is just as much rolling forest-clad hills and picturesque mountains as it is beautiful medieval towns, ancient monasteries, and breathtaking castles. Its cities are just as diverse in character and appearance. Consequently, it is an incredible country to visit, and many of Romania's cities look as if they have just sprung up out of a fairytale such is ...
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Bucharest, the capital and the largest city of Romania, doesn't get as much praise as it should and is always in the shadow of more popular Romania tourist places. But the city is actually really interesting, diverse and full of attractions for each taste. The city was founded in the 14th century but became the capital of Romania in 1862.
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Wander around a medieval town preserved in time at the base of the Carpathians. And of course, stay in the charming hotels in Brasov.. The 7th most populous city in Romania, Brasov was formed in 1211 when King Andrew II of Hungary ordered the Teutonic Knights to fortify the borders of what was then the Kingdom of Hungary.The knights today are long gone, but thanks to the cities position as a ...
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Situated in the southeastern corner of Europe, on the shores of the Black Sea, Romania has so far largely missed out on the global tourism boom. Tenuous associations with Bram Stoker's fictional Dracula have long lured travellers to Transylvania, but much of the rest of the country, with its beautiful mountains and river valleys, rustic villages, and vibrant cities, has only recently begun ...
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Conclusion. Most of the lists available online, as well as suggestions that you might get from people living in Romania, will usually stick to the biggest cities in the country: Bucharest, Cluj Napoca, Timisoara, Constanta, most likely followed by high rising (in popularity) Brasov and Sibiu.
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Cluj Napoca is the second-largest city in Romania and the most modern one. It offers even better living conditions and jobs than in Bucharest sometimes and that is why it is considered the best city to live in Romania. Cluj Napoca also has some interesting attractions for tourists.
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Information about ROMANIA Regions and Major Cities offered by Romania Tourism. Data, history, useful information, travel brochures, maps and advice regarding Romania historical regions: Transylvania, Wallachia and Moldova and main cities including Bucharest, Brasov, Timisoara, Iasi, Cluj, Constanta.
23 Things to Do in Romania in 2024: Famous, Cool & Unique
1. Visit Dracula's Castle aka Bran Castle . Of all the remarkable places to visit in Romania, Bran Castle remains the most popular with international tourists and by far one of the most famous castles in our country. Although this Transylvanian castle was an important medieval fortress and home to Romania's Queen Marie, it's far better known for one fictional resident: the vampire Count Dracula.
Romania travel
Romania. Europe. Rugged stone churches and dazzling monasteries dot a pristine landscape of rocky mountains and rolling hills. Transylvanian towns have stepped out of time, while vibrant Bucharest is all energy. 01 / Attractions.
10 Spectacular Cities to Visit in Romania
8. Băile Tușnad - Thermal Spa Town. Located in Harghita County, Romania, Thermal spas, Băile Tușnad is a beautiful place to visit. It is quite literally the smallest town in Romania based on population, however, it has a lot to offer.
Explore Romania: Travel Guides, Tips & Culture Insights
Discover Romania's hidden gems with curated travel guides, cultural insights, and essential tips. Plan your perfect Romanian getaway. ... Find Out Why Bucharest Is The Best City for Digital Nomads; Open Streets - Bucharest, Romania 2023: All You Need to Know; Getting Around in Bucharest: Public Transport, Bus, Taxis and Metro;
Romania travel: Five Instagrammable cities to visit this summer
Below we've selected five of the most Instagrammable cities in the country to add to your travel list this summer (or any other season). Iasi. A former capital of Moldova and a cultural ...

12 Best Cities to Visit in Romania

12. Targu Mures

11. Suceava

8. Sighisoara

7. Alba Iulia

6. Timisoara

4. Cluj-Napoca

3. Constanta

1. Bucharest

Map of cities in Romania

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10 Best Places to Visit in Romania

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9 Best Cities & Towns to Visit in Romania (+ Map & Insider Tips)

1. Brașov

Practical Info for Visiting Brașov

2. Bucharest

Practical Info for Visiting Bucharest

Practical Info for Visiting Sinaia

Practical Info for Visiting Sibiu

5. Sighișoara

Practical Info for Visiting Sighișoara

6. Cluj-Napoca

Practical Info for Visiting Cluj-Napoca

7. Timișoara

Practical Info for Visiting Timișoara

8. Constanța

Practical Info for Visiting Constanța

9. Iași

Practical Info for Visiting Iași

50 Best Places to Visit in Romania, Europe’s Underrated Gem

Historical Landmarks and Unique Points of Interest

Painted Monasteries of Bucovina

Corvin Castle

Libearty Bear Sanctuary in Zarnesti

Ruins of the Carta Monastery

Turda Salt Mine

Dumbrava Sibiului Natural Park and the Astra Museum Complex

Bran Castle

Transfagarasan Road

Sarmizegetusa Regia

Wooden Churches of Maramureș

Fortress of Suceava

Baile Romane (Roman Baths) of Geoagiu-Bai

Rock Sculpture of Decebalus

Fagaras Fortress

Densus Church

Rupea Citadel

Feldioara Fortress

Curtea de Argeș Monastery

Horezu Monastery

Cantacuzino Castle

Rasnov Fortress

Merry Cemetery

Best Places to Visit in Romania: Cities, Towns, and Villages

Sinaia (Peles Castle)

Cluj-Napoca

Targu Mures

Székelyudvarhely (RO: Odorheiul Secuiesc)

Best Places in Romania for Nature Lovers

Piatra Craiului National Park

Danube Delta

Trovanti Museum Natural Reserve

Sphinx Natural Monument

Berca Mud Volcanoes Reserve

Nerei-BeușNița Ravine National Park

Retezat National Park

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25 Best Places to Visit in Romania

Places to visit in Romania