Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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Romania Summary
These place ratings give you a quick overview of how well a destination matches different types of trips.
‘Best for’ scores:
The specific interest scores show where this place really shines – whether it's ideal for hiking, food & drink experiences, museums or other activities. These highlights help you understand what makes the destination special at a glance.
‘Your personal’ scores:
This reflects how well a place matches your personal preferences. You can adjust the importances of travel topics or other personal requirements categories in your account settings.
‘Suited for’ badges:
These give you a quick overview of how well a destination suits specific types of travellers, to help you find the places that match your lifestyle, preferences or travel situation.
Suited for
Romania – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
230 V, 50 Hz Plug: Type C , Type F
Type C:
  Read about power adapters |
|---|---|
| Currency: |
Romanian Leu (RON) £1 ≈ RON 6.39 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 4/5
Cashless payment is widely accepted in cities, though cash is often required in rural areas.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is customary in Romania. 10-15% in restaurants is standard, and small tips for taxi drivers and hotel staff are common. |
|---|---|
| Public drinking: | Public drinking is not widely accepted, though it is tolerated in some festive events. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is banned in indoor public spaces and transport, with designated areas available. |
| Unification Day (December) |
Expect closures and parades. |
|---|---|
| Easter (March/April) |
Religious and cultural activities dominate. |
| Christmas (December) |
Markets and festive celebrations occur. |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Number: 112 (Police, Fire, Ambulance) |
|---|---|
| Taxi apps: | Bolt, Uber, Clever |
| Other: | Romania is famous for its castles, including Dracula’s Castle, and its beautiful Carpathian landscapes. |
Best times to travel
The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.
Background colours of the months:
The colour shows the typical temperature: yellow (hot), green (mild) and blue (cold). How strong the colour is shows the travel season: full colour means high season, soft colour means shoulder season and soft-striped means off season.
Weather symbols:
Each month has one symbol showing what the weather is typically like, such as hot and sunny, freezing or a rainy or snowy season. Use them to quickly spot months that match the weather you want, or to avoid the ones that don't.
Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.
Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.
for Romania, Romania
Climate and season vary a lot by region: Carpathians best for skiing December to March and hiking June to September, Black Sea coast best for beaches June to September, cities good for sightseeing May to June and September
Transfăgărășan and Transalpina high mountain roads usually open only from late June to October
Danube Delta birdwatching and boat trips are best from April to June, with most lodges closed in winter
Don't miss
- 🏰 Visit the majestic Peleș Castle in Sinaia
- 🧛♂️ Explore Bran Castle, legendary home of Dracula
- 🏘️ Wander the medieval streets of Sighișoara Citadel
- 🥾 Hike the scenic trails of Piatra Craiului National Park
- ⛏️ Discover the underground wonders at Salina Turda
- 🚤 Boat tour through the wild Danube Delta biosphere
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! Why travel to Romania?
Romania's appeal lies in its remarkable diversity of experiences at surprisingly affordable prices. The country boasts an incredible wealth of historical treasures, including well-preserved medieval towns like Sighișoara, impressive castles such as Peleș and Bran and unique UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Painted Monasteries of Bucovina. Nature lovers will be mesmerized by the Carpathian Mountains, which cover about 45% of the country, offering spectacular hiking trails, wildlife watching and winter sports. The cultural experience is enhanced by warm hospitality, traditional rural life that has largely disappeared elsewhere in Europe and a rich tapestry of folklore and traditions. However, travelers should be prepared for certain challenges. While major tourist areas have good infrastructure, roads in rural areas can be poorly maintained and driving requires caution. Language barriers may exist outside major cities and tourist spots, though younger Romanians often speak good English. The weather can be unpredictable, with hot summers and cold winters, so packing appropriately is essential.
🏙️Cities & Regions
-
1
Bucharest
A vibrant capital where historic architecture meets modern life, Bucharest offers grand boulevards, eclectic museums and lively cafés. The city’s mix of neoclassical buildings, Soviet-era blocks and green parks creates a dynamic urban experience. -
2
Brașov
Brasov sits at the edge of Transylvania’s Carpathian foothills, offering a mix of medieval architecture and natural beauty. The town features a well‑preserved fortress, cobblestone streets and easy access to nearby mountain resorts and historic villages. -
3
Cluj-Napoca
Cluj‑Napoca is a vibrant university city in Transylvania, known for its historic architecture, lively cultural scene and growing tech industry. The surrounding hills offer hiking, wine tasting and access to medieval castles and tourist attractions. -
4
Sibiu
This Transylvanian city rivals Budapest's historic charm without the crowds. Its medieval center and Orthodox domes offer authentic culture. Visit during winter for a quieter, magical atmosphere away from peak-season throngs. -
5
Timișoara
Known for its vibrant cultural scene and historic architecture, the city hosts annual festivals, a mix of Baroque and Art Nouveau buildings and a lively market square that reflects its diverse heritage in the heart of western Romania and offers visitors unique experiences. -
6
Iași
A vibrant cultural hub in northeastern Romania, Iasi offers a mix of historic architecture and modern amenities. The city hosts numerous museums, theaters and universities, while its lively cafés and parks provide relaxed spaces for visitors to explore. -
7
Sinaia
High in Romania's Carpathian Mountains, Sinaia offers a cool climate and historic charm. The town hosts the impressive Peleș Castle, lush forests and ski slopes, making it a popular destination for culture enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. -
8
Sighișoara
A fortified medieval town perched on a hilltop, Sighișoara offers cobblestone streets, colorful houses and a well-preserved citadel that hosts the annual Dracula festival. Its architecture reflects Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque influences in the center. -
9
Oradea
Historic city in Transylvania known for its well‑preserved medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene. The fortified church, cobblestone streets and local crafts attract visitors seeking authentic Romanian heritage amid a lively urban atmosphere and history.
🏯Places worth seeing
-
1
Bran Castle
A fortified medieval structure perched on a hill overlooking Transylvania’s forested valleys, Bran Castle offers panoramic views and a storied past tied to local legends. Its stone walls, interior galleries and surrounding park attract history enthusiasts year‑round. -
2
Bran Castle
-
3
Palace of the Parliament
-
4
Corvin Castle
-
5
Sighișoara Citadel
-
6
Peleș Castle
🎡Places for activities
🏞️Natural landmarks
🛍️Shopping
🎈Events
-
George Enescu Classical Music Festival
-
Sibiu International Theatre Festival
-
Medieval Festival in Sighișoara
-
Christmas Markets
-
Mărțișor Spring Festival
-
Hora de la Prislop
-
Sighișoara Medieval Festival
-
Bucharest International Film Festival
-
Transylvania International Film Festival
-
Rockwave Festival
Popular travel destinations in Romania
Knowledge before you go
- Carry some cash; smaller towns may not accept cards.
- Trains are affordable but can be slow; build buffer time into long-distance connections.
- Use official ride-hailing apps in cities; agree taxi fares beforehand to avoid surprises.
- If driving mountain routes, check seasonal road openings and weather – some high passes close for safety.
How to travel to Romania
Most international visitors arrive in Romania through Bucharest's Henri Coandă International Airport, with additional international airports in cities like Cluj-Napoca, Timișoara and Sibiu. As of January 2025, Romania has joined the Schengen area, making travel between Romania and other Schengen countries easier with no border controls. For EU citizens, only an ID card is required for entry, while most non-EU visitors need a passport and possibly a Schengen visa. Romania is also accessible by train from neighboring countries, with international connections to Budapest, Vienna and other European cities.
Access summary
- Bucharest/Wallachia: Fly to Bucharest Henri Coandă (OTP) from major European hubs.
- Transylvania (Cluj, Brașov, Sibiu): Fly to Cluj (CLJ) or Sibiu (SBZ) via OTP.
- Timișoara/West and Iași/Moldova: Direct European flights to TSR/IAS or via Bucharest.
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay in Romania
Romania offers accommodations for every budget, from luxury hotels in major cities to charming guesthouses in rural areas. In tourist destinations like Brasov, Sibiu and Bucharest, you'll find international hotel chains alongside boutique hotels in historic buildings. For unique experiences, consider traditional guesthouses in villages like those in Maramureș or Bucovina or spa resorts in areas like Baile Felix. Budget travelers can find hostels starting from RON 73.50 – 122.50 (£11.59 – 19.31) per night, while mid-range hotels typically cost RON 147 – 343 (£23.17 – 54.07). Book well in advance for summer months and during major festivals.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
How to get around Romania
Getting around Romania offers various options depending on your destination. In major cities like Bucharest, public transportation includes metros, buses and trams. For intercity travel, Romania has an extensive network of trains and buses connecting most towns and cities, though comfort levels can vary. Rental cars provide the most flexibility for exploring rural areas and natural attractions, but be prepared for occasional poor road conditions. The KTEL buses connect most towns and cities at affordable prices, while domestic flights are recommended for longer distances.
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home
We calculate the average costs when travelling to destinations and compare those with the living costs at your home. With this you can get an estimate of how expensive or cheap the destination is for you.
To customise this, you can set up which location and price level are used for the calculations in your account settings.
Daily expenses in Romania are around 44% lower than the average across United States. That means you'll spend a lot less on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend
The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.
Your exchange rate (GBP to RON) is 10% better than in recent years. That means travelling now is cheaper compared to the past.
Travel costs
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
Daily cost summary
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
| Backpacker | Mid-range | Luxury | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 💵 Total costs per day, including accommodation | |||
| 🏨 Accommodation per night, per person | |||
| 🍝 Food per day | |||
| 🚕 Transportation per day |
Food & Drink
| 🍽️ Restaurant Dinner, per person | |
|---|---|
| 🍛 Lunch Set, per person | |
| 🍟 Fast food combo | |
| 🍝 Preparing your own food, per day | |
| ☕ Cappuccino | |
| 🍺 Beer in a restaurant, 0.5 l |
Transportation
| 🚌 Public transport ticket | |
|---|---|
| 🚕 Taxi Ride, 10 km / 6 mi | |
| ⛽ Petrol, 1 l |
Other
| 🎞️ Cinema ticket | |
|---|---|
| 👩⚕️ Doctor's consult | |
| 🤧 Cold medication | |
| 💇 Basic haircut |
Safety information overview
General safety
Romania is generally safe for tourists with low violent crime rates. Exercise normal precautions in crowded tourist areas where pickpocketing can occur. Be cautious of taxi scams in major cities and always use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps.
Health & Medical
Major cities have good quality healthcare facilities, though services may be limited in rural areas. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues. EU citizens should carry their European Health Insurance Card, while others need comprehensive travel insurance.
Accessibility
Accessibility varies widely across Romania. Major cities and newer tourist facilities offer some accessibility features, but historical sites, rural areas and older buildings often present challenges for mobility-impaired travelers with uneven surfaces and limited facilities.
Tap water
Tap water is generally safe to drink in most urban areas, though many locals and tourists prefer bottled water, which is inexpensive and widely available. In rural areas, it's advisable to stick to bottled water.
Packing recommendations for Romania
Log in to add this place to a travel list and get a summary of all recommended items for your whole trip.
📷
Camera
👟
Comfortable walking shoes
🌞
Sun cream
summer
🚰
Reusable water bottle
🧥
Waterproof jacket
☂️
Folding umbrella
🪰
Insect repellent
👛
Cash in small denominations
🧕
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees
🔋
Power bank
🩹
Basic first aid kit
📃
Travel insurance
🪪
Copies of passport and important documents
📱
Translation app or phrasebook
🧥
Fleece mid-layer
📱
Travel eSIM
🔌
Universal travel adaptor
Type F plugs
🩺
Prescription medicines
💳
Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
🛂
Passport
Destinations in Romania
Related articles & guides for Romania
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