Romania is one of Europe’s most underrated countries. With fairy-tale landscapes, an interesting mix of old and new, and plenty of opportunities for adventure, Romania will exceed your expectations whether you start with the top tourist attractions or choose a local experience.
You are never too far away from nature, as most cities in Romania are surrounded by captivating mountain landscapes. You can find secluded areas where rural villages have preserved their traditional way of life, the incredible charm of the Romanian countryside usually wins the heart of everyone who sets foot in it.
In terms of travelling around, most cities are well-connected so you can easily choose the perfect base to start your Romanian adventure. And unlike many cities in Europe, everything is affordable: accommodation, food, public transport, entrance fees and tours!
1. The charming medieval city of Brasov
Brasov is nestled in Central Transylvania, safely guarded by the Carpathian Mountains. Here, you will find one of the narrowest streets in Europe (The Rope Street), one of the biggest gothic churches in Romania (the Black Church), and the wonderful Town Hall Square, where you can stroll around colourful and ornate baroque structures from medieval times.
While in Brasov, make sure you don’t miss the medieval defensive fortifications. They are all open for visitors and you can get a taste of local history by visiting The White and Black Tower, the Blacksmiths’ Bastion, the Graft Bastion, Catherine’s Gate and Schei Gate, and the Weaver’s Bastion. Finally, take the cable car up to the Tampa Mountain to enjoy breathtaking views over the city and plains of Transylvania!
2. Watch wild animals in the wild
Usually referred to as Europe’s last wilderness reserve, the Carpathian Mountains are home to the largest brown bear population in Europe and a significant population of other wild animals such as lynx, deer, wolves, boars, mountain goats and eagles.
Brasov is the best place from where you can go on hiking and wildlife tours in the Fagaras Mountains. These tours require a good physical condition as you’ll need to hike deep in the mountains to spot wildlife. A popular alternative is a short trip on the outskirts of Brasov where you’ll spend a couple of hours in an observation hide in the forest with good visibility over spots where animals pass by. Usually brown bears – and lots of them!
3. Visit Peles Castle
Halfway between Bucharest and Brasov you should stop at Sinaia to visit Peles Castle, the former summer retreat for the Romanian royal family. Although built in the late 19th century, the castle rises to its royal reputation even today. Luxurious rooms (160 rooms!), grand designs, sculptures and handmade furniture are all a marvel to witness. Must see-rooms: the Florentine Room, the Council Room, the Royal Library, the Weapon Rooms, and the Moor Hall.
Tip: Buy a ticket for both levels, it’s worth the expense (approximately $20). Or go on a guided tour to learn in-depth about this immense architectural jewel.
4. Experience Rural Life in Transylvania
Visiting the famous region of Transylvania is like stepping back in time. This is where you’ll discover authentic Romanian life and culture. The region is 1/3 of Romania and there are many cities to visit and things to do so you’ll need a bit of planning for this.
Consider visiting the fortified Saxon Villages such as Biertan (pictured above) included in the UNESCO World Heritage list, the beautiful city of Sibiu and its picturesque outskirts, or the famous sub-regions of Maramures and Bucovina. You’ll be able to see how villagers lead a slow and peaceful self-sustainable way of life, many of them still living off the land and using local crafts and techniques. It’s a unique picture in Europe, that stills clings on to old traditions despite changing generations, so you shouldn’t miss it!
5. Drive on the famous Transfăgărășan Highway
The ultimate driving and sightseeing experience in Romania! The Transfăgărășan Highway is a 3-hour drive from Bucharest or 1h 30m from Sibiu. This 150 km road across Fagaras Mountains was built during communist years with approx. 6,000 tons of dynamite and much, much effort.
It’s one of the main reasons people visit Romania thanks to an episode of the popular BBC show Top Gear which named it the best road in the world. Driving enthusiasts will absolutely adore the many twists and turns of this incredible drive!
At its highest point at Balea Lake the road reaches 2,200m altitude and offers breathtaking views of Transylvania’s plains. Though keep in mind that this road is only open for driving between June-October. Outside this period it can be visited only coming from Sibiu and using a cable car, if weather permits.
6. Taste the Incredible Food in Sibiu
Sibiu is a splendid city and holds a wonderful display of medieval architecture mixed with a vibrant and modern culture. But what makes Sibiu truly incredible is the food. The region was recently awarded the European Region of Gastronomy award and it has a reputation that precedes itself with organic, home-grown food and traditional Romanian dishes of Saxon inspiration. Usually during summer there are food festivals and events organised in rural villages that will have you drooling!
The food events planned for this year will offer you a gastronomic tour of the city and region. A blend of local herbs, traditional smoking techniques and a plethora of traditional local courses and specialties such as sausages, fried polenta, beef stew, and cheese specialties (branza de burduf!) await. Desserts are mainly sweet pastries with home-made fruit jams and sweet cheeses.
7. Sighisoara Citadel – beautifully coloured and preserved!
Sighisoara Citadel is one of the best-preserved medieval citadels in Europe and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage for its authentic feeling. With a charming atmosphere, getting around the citadel by foot might be confusing at first – cobbled and narrow streets, imposing townhouses or defence towers, everything looks like a landmark!
The citadel has been inhabited since its construction more than 600 years ago. As Sighisoara is located ideally in the heart of Transylvania and at the crossroads of many trading routes, it was fortified to protect the accumulating wealth of locals in the area.
Be sure to cross off your list Tailors’ Tower (Turnul Croitorilor), Tanners’ Tower (Turnul Tabacarilor), Tinsmiths’ Tower (Turnul Cositorilor), Butchers’ Tower (Turnul Macelarilor), Cobblers’ Tower (Turnul Cizmarilor), Furriers’ Tower (Turnul Cojocarilor), Ropemakers’ Tower (Turnul Franghierilor), and The Blacksmiths’ Tower (Turnul Fierarilor). Finally, enjoy a Saxon dish at a local restaurant paired with a Transylvanian wine – the setting will be perfect!
8. Bucharest by night
Romania’s capital city is known for its vibrant nightlife. There’s now an increasing number cafes, bars, clubs or wine bars to choose from, for every style, budget or atmosphere. The Old Town area is the city’s hotspot but you’ll find hidden gems like rooftop gardens and underground clubs away from the tourist crowds. But brace yourself – partying with the locals is going to be a challenge, usually until morning!
Further reading: How to Spend 3 days in Bucharest
9. The Painted Monasteries of Bucovina
The painted monasteries in the region of Bucovina are a national treasure for Orthodox Christians but also for tourists interested in discovering Romanian culture. That’s why they were included in UNESCO heritage. Most of them were built between the 15th and 16th century by local rulers to celebrate victories against the pagan Ottoman Empire. The most famous of the 8 churches are Arbore, Humor, Moldovita, Sucevita and Voronet.
The monasteries are known for their impressive, detailed paintings and exterior frescos with scenes and characters from the Bible, beautifully preserved despite the passage of time. Of them, Voronet stands out for its Judgement Day painting and shade of blue that miraculously has not changed or withered even after so long!
10. Visit Constanta & the Black Sea
Few tourists know that Romania has a seaside opening at the Black Sea. The port city of Constanta was once known as Tomis, one of the first Roman settlements and an important trading hub for the entire area. So expect to find a large number of Roman ruins and artefacts, including mosaics. The Constanta Casino (pictured) is another landmark you shouldn’t miss. This Art-Nouveau palace is now abandoned and uncared for, although its exterior speaks of illustrious bygone days.
June-August is the perfect time to enjoy the fine-sandy beaches and warm, not-so-salty waters of the Black Sea. All over the coast there are plenty of resorts to choose from: Mamaia, Navodari, Vama Veche or Costinesti for the young and restless, Neptun, Eforie, Olimp for families and people looking to chill by the sea.
11. The Danube Delta – nature’s garden
The Danube Delta is another important part of Romania you should consider visiting. Home to more than 140 species of fish, 350 species of birds and numerous plants and vegetation, this huge area was created naturally by the Danube before flowing into the Black Sea. It’s Europe’s second largest delta and a UNESCO biosphere reserve.
Its landscape is impressive. Boats and river canals replace roads and cars, traditional fisherman villages with a unique way of life, patches of swamps but also forests growing impossibly. The Danube Delta is a great place for birdwatching, wildlife photography, canoe rides, fishing or sunbathing on wild beaches. Lastly, the cuisine here is unique – fish is slow cooked in stews and tastes like nothing you’ve had before!
12. Cărturești Carusel - a booklovers' paradise
Opened in 2015, Cărturești Carusel in Bucharest has fast become recognised for its startling beauty after adorning popularity across Instagram. Located in a stunning 19th-century building which has been elegantly restored after the building became abandoned after the fall of the Communist regime. As for the collection, well you could easily whittle away hours by exploring its six floors that are home to 10,000 books, as well as a bistro on the top floor – because we all know how well books and coffee together!
Author Bio
Marius Iliescu is the founder of Romanian Friend - a local initiative promoting handpicked tours with the best local guides so travellers can discover the authentic beauty of Romania while supporting responsible tourism. Plan your trip with help from a Romanian Friend and follow them on Instagram for up-to-date information.
2 Responses
This is a really nice post on Romania!
I went to Romania last year, and even though I was disappointed with my visit, I very much liked Brasov, I adored Peles Castle, Sibiu was indeed beautiful, Bucharest had a very interesting history, and Romanian food and drink was pretty alright. It just didn’t give me the excitement and wow factor that I tend to feel whenever I visit an East European country!
I would recommend Romania to others, but I probably wouldn’t go back myself.
I felt the same about South Africa, the Dominican Republic and Singapore!
It isn’t Romania, it’s me!
p.s. This is what I wrote at the time. Feel free to correct me: https://thebritishberliner.wordpress.com/2018/05/05/i-went-to-romania-it-didnt-wow-me/
Indeed, bear watching is one of the top things to do in Romania! Seeing these majestic animals in the wild, from just a few meters away, is definitely worth a visit to this country.
The city of Brasov is also worth visiting. Setting your base here is highly recommended if you want to see this part of Transylvania. Here is a thorough list of things to do in Brasov (and the surroundings): https://outdoorholidays.eu/blog/top-things-to-do-brasov-romania/