Romania Travel Guide — Best Cities, Food & Tips

Good to know

Best time to visit

Late spring to early autumn (May–September) is best for hiking and festivals; winter (December–March) is ideal for skiing in the Carpathians. Expect warm summers in the south and cooler mountain conditions at higher elevations.

Currency

Romanian leu (RON) — carry some cash for markets and rural areas, cards are widely accepted in cities

Language

Romanian; English is commonly spoken in tourist areas and by younger people, while French and German appear regionally

Getting around

Trains and long-distance buses connect major cities affordably, while renting a car is convenient for exploring Transylvania and mountain roads. Domestic flights link Bucharest with Cluj-Napoca and Timișoara for quicker travel.

Culture & etiquette

Romanians are polite and appreciate greetings; remove shoes if invited into a home and accept offered refreshments. It’s respectful to learn a few Romanian phrases and use formal address (Domnule/Doamnă) with older people.

Country highlights

Brașov and Council Square

A well-preserved medieval city with cobbled streets, the Black Church and easy access to Poiana Brașov ski resort and the Bucegi Mountains.

Sighișoara Citadel

A UNESCO-listed, colorful fortified town and one of the best-preserved medieval citadels in Europe, birthplace of Vlad the Impaler.

Castelul Bran (Bran Castle)

A dramatic hilltop castle often associated with the Dracula legend, set amid forested scenery near Brașov.

Danube Delta

A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with exceptional birdwatching, traditional fishing villages and waterways best explored by boat.

Painted Monasteries of Bukovina

14th–16th century monasteries like Voroneț and Moldovița famed for vivid exterior frescoes and Orthodox heritage.

Sibiu and Transylvanian Saxon villages

An elegant cultural hub with museums and plazas, surrounded by fortified Saxon villages such as Viscri and Biertan.

What to eat

sarmale

Cabbage rolls stuffed with pork and rice, slow-cooked and often served with polenta.

mămăligă

Cornmeal porridge similar to polenta, a staple side often paired with cheese, sour cream or stews.

ciorbă de burtă

A hearty tripe soup with a tangy, creamy broth popular as comfort food.

mici

Grilled skinless meat rolls seasoned with garlic and spices, commonly eaten with mustard and bread.

papanași

Deep-fried cheese doughnuts served with sour cream and fruit jam for dessert.

Insider tips

Carry some RON cash for small towns, markets and tolls despite wide card acceptance in cities.
Watch train and bus timetables — regional services can be infrequent; book night trains in advance for comfort.
Drive carefully on rural roads: signage can be sparse, and winter conditions require snow tires or chains.
Tipping of around 10% in restaurants is appreciated if service isn't included; round up taxi fares.
Respect religious sites: dress modestly in monasteries and remove hats inside churches.

Cities in Romania

Bucharest🇷🇴 Romania

Historic grandeur meets vibrant modern life

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Good to know — FAQ

Do I need a visa to visit Romania?

EU, EEA and many Western countries' citizens can enter Romania visa-free for short stays; check current Schengen/visa rules that apply to your nationality before travel.

Is Romania safe for solo travelers?

Romania is generally safe with low violent crime; use usual precautions in cities (watch belongings) and avoid poorly lit areas at night.

Can I use public transport to reach national parks?

Major parks are reachable by regional buses or trains to nearby towns, but last-mile transport often requires a taxi or rented car for trailheads.

Is English widely spoken?

English is commonly spoken by younger people, hospitality staff and in tourist centers, though rural areas may have limited English speakers.