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

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: January 15, 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 by a local. In this guide, she shares the most beautiful towns in Romania and insider tips for your visit. Find out!

To help you plan your trip, we also created a map of the best cities in Romania. As you can see, Romania is a big country. Some of these cities are quite close to Bucharest and can be visited as day trips.

But 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.

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!

Romania - Travel and Tourism information

Authentic, Natural and Cultural are the words that best capture the essence of Romania, a dynamic country rich in history , arts and scenic beauty.

Romania offers countless unique travel experiences that are waiting to be discovered. A journey of three to four hours, by car or train, can take you from the Danube River to a beautiful, intact, medieval town; from Bucharest - Romania's capital city - to the Black Sea ; from Southern Transylvania to Bucovina or Maramures regions.

Take a step back in time as you visit one of the unique Painted Monasteries in Bucovina, the perfectly preserved hilltop citadel of Sighisoara or an authentic, centuries-old, village in Maramures.

Explore Romania's many architectural treasures and experience its vibrant and flourishing arts scene. We are looking forward to welcoming you to Romania!

Romania news and events: > Travel to Romania given the Ukraine situation. > Romania to gradually join the Schengen area, starting with lifting controls at air and sea borders as of March 2024. > Upcoming Romania Tours. > New Danube River Cruise Itineraries.

Featured Hotel: The Marmorosch Bucharest / Autograph Collection

Featured Hotel of the Month: The Marmorosch Bucharest | Autograph Collection

Authentic Romania

The countryside is the heart and soul of Romania, where peasant culture remains a strong force and medieval ways prevail like nowhere else in Europe.

Natural Romania

Recognized as the world's third most biologically diverse area, the Danube Delta has been recognized by UNESCO for its outstanding universal value.

Cultural Romania

Romanians' vivid imagination and intense spirituality have always been expressed through their architecture, music, crafts and traditions.

Active Mountain Trip in Romania, The Carpathian Mountains

Active Romania

With a terrain that ranges from steep and challenging to gentle and pleasant, Romania offers hikers and bikers of all skills and levels something to enjoy.

General Information about Romania

Fast Facts, Location, Geography, Climate, People, History, Government, Economy, Little Known Facts about Romania, Romania in the Press

Romania Main Visitor Attractions

Transylvania Medieval Towns, Castles & Fortresses, Danube Delta, The Carpathian Mountains, The Painted Monasteries, Medical Spas, Traditional Villages, World Heritage Sites, Black Sea Resorts

Special Interest Travel

Arts and Crafts, Architecture, Authentic Experiences, Active Vacations , Danube River Cruises, Dracula Legend, Festivals & Events, Food & Wine, Genealogy Searches, Jewish Heritage, Saxon Heritage, Traditions

Romania Historical Regions

Banat & Crisana , Bucovina & Moldova , Dobrogea , Maramures , Transylvania , Walachia

Main Cities in Romania

Bucharest, Alba Iulia, Arad, Baia Mare, Brasov, Braila, Cluj, Constanta, Craiova, Deva, Galati, Iasi, Oradea, Satu Mare, Sibiu, Sighisoara, Suceava, Timisoara, Targu Jiu, Targu Mures, Tulcea.

Romania Trip Planner

Entry Requirements, Transportation, Maps, Practical Information, Sample Itineraries, Upcoming Tours, Special Offers, Travel Advisory.

Special Offers & Best Buys

Tours and Packages Transportation

What travel guides say about Romania:

"What I like about Romania is that you know you are in a different place, in a good way." (Jayne Clark, USA Today)

"… why should you go to Romania? The straight answer is because it is one of the most beautiful countries of Southeast Europe." (The Blue Guide)

"Considered by many the most beautiful country in Eastern-Europe, Romania still claims regions that seem bastions of a medieval past long since lost elsewhere." (Fodor's Eastern and Central Europe)

"Few regions offer a more dazzling display of cultural and artistic treasures than Romania." (Smithsonian Journeys)

"No journey to Eastern Europe would be complete without paying a visit to Romania… Outstanding landscapes, a huge diversity of wildlife…" (The Rough Guide)

"I had no idea what to expect when I first visited Romania. 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." ( Nomadic Matt )

Romania’s mountain scenery, its great diversity of wildlife and cultures, and a way of life that at times seems little changed since the Middle Ages, leave few who visit unaffected. ( Rough Guides )

"Romania has majestic castles, medieval towns, great hiking and wildlife…" (The Lonely Planet)

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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:

3 days in Transylvania medieval tour

Bucharest city tour one day long

The Black Sea and Constanta city Tour

Unesco tour in Romania 14 days itinerary

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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17 of the Best Places to Visit in Romania for Every Kind of Traveler

If you’re wondering where to go in Romania, we’ve got you covered. We asked a group of professional travel writers to share their favorite Romania vacation spots, plus we’ve added a few of our own, to come up with this comprehensive list of the best places to visit in Romania!

When planning your Romanian itinerary, keep in mind that public transportation times between cities can often be deceptively long. We don’t encourage anyone to come to Romania and try to zip around too fast, instead we love slowly exploring one region at a time instead of rushing from place to place. Romania is a country that is best enjoyed when you savor small moments, rather than just seeing the country’s highlights.

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Want to travel Romania? We’ve covered the most beautiful places to visit in Romania, from Bucharest to Transylvania (Brasov, Sibiu, Sighisoara, and beyond) to the Black Sea coast of Constanta and Danube Delta to under-the-radar Romanian cities like Timisoara, Cluj, and beyond. Full of the best things to do in Romania and Romania travel tips. From nature to mountains to food, this is your one-stop spot for Romania itinerary inspiration!

Here are the best places to visit in Romania (as picked by travel experts!)

In no particular order…

Since Bucharest is the most visited city in Romania (and many people’s entry point into the city) it should surprise no one that it’s the favorite Romanian vacation spot of many travel writers! We were lucky enough to get two separate takes on this great Romanian city.

Romania - Bucharest - Best Places to Visit in Romania Collab

The capital of Romania, Bucharest is a must visit for anyone visiting this lesser known corner of the world. You can spend hours meandering around the city marvelling at the broad range of architecture dotted throughout this metropolis.

There’s so much to see here – from the hard to miss, ginormous Palace of Parliament, so large that barely fits into one photograph, to the beautiful domed Stavropoleos Monastery and Bucharest’s own Arc de Triomphe! Take a break from the bustling streets and head to Herastrau Park, a green oasis in the midst of the city encircling the Herastrau Lake, where you’ll find many locals enjoying a relaxing walk or bike ride in the fresh air.

When it comes to food, although Romania isn’t famed for it’s cuisine, there are two absolute gems to put on your list whilst exploring Bucharest.

For a truly traditional affair head to Caru’cu Bere, an ornate beer hall serving up pints of great value local beer and classic Romanian dishes including mittitei and tochitură. The live Romanian folk music and over the top venue may make this seem more like a tourist haunt but you’ll find many locals also frequent this authentic place.

On the other end of the scale make your way to The Artist, one of Bucharest’s only and certainly the best fine dining you’ll find in the city. Serving up inventive dishes including quail with crab, apricot and white chocolate this is one restaurant you don’t have to choose one dish as you can opt for the ‘spoon tasting’ a mouthful or two of each delicious dish.

Contributed by Laura from The Travelling Stomach.

I loved living in Bucharest , Romania. Bucharest is the capital of Romania and there is lots to see and do. You can visit the Old Town, take a tour of the markets, go ice skating in a mall or enjoy some of the architecture. Also, be sure to try some traditional foods, pass time in their near perfect parks or even heck out parliament. This is just a glimpse, there are lots of things to do in Bucharest.

Why really won Bucharest over for me was how livable it was. The accommodations in Bucharest are quite affordable to start with. The internet in Bucharest is some of the fastest in the world and many people I met spoke English.

I really enjoyed the variety of foods available and the nightlife was rock solid as well. That said, like anywhere “there are pros and cons to living Bucharest”. Since Romania is the capital though, there is really something for everyone from history buffs, to foodies or even digital nomads like myself.

It should go without saying that if you’re traveling in Romania, set some time aside to explore Bucharest.

Contributed by Rob Lloyd from Stop Having a Boring Life.

Romania - Sighisoara - Best Places to visit in Romania collab

Home to one of the best-preserved medieval citadels in Europe (and one of the few that remain inhabited), Sighisoara is a must-visit in Romania.

Located 300 km north-west of Bucharest, Sighisoara is one in a constellation of fortified Transylvanian cities. It was established in the 12th century by the Saxons, craftspeople and merchants dispatched to the area to safeguard the Austro-Hungarian border from the Ottoman.

Members of Sighisoara’s 15 trade guilds (Rope Makers, Furriers, Tanners and Butchers, to name a few) took care of the town’s walls and defensive bastions. Today, each of the towers retains the name of its forbearers.

Like other Transylvanian cities, Sighisoara revolves around its Clock Tower (Tunul cu Ceas) and square. The tower’s shimmering roof tiles can be spotted from anywhere in the city. The wooden Scholar’s Stairway, first built in 1642, leads to the Biserica din Deal and German Cemetery high above the town.

Other highlights of Sighisoara include visiting the canary yellow house where Vlad Tepes, AKA Count Dracula, was born in 1431. It’s now a restaurant and small museum. A couple of hours can happily be spent wandering amongst the cobbled lanes and pastel houses that helped earn Sighisoara a place on UNESCO’s World Heritage list in 1999.

Sighisoara can easily be reached from Bucharest by rail or bus. It’s also possible to visit as a day trip from Sibiu or Brasov.

Contributed by Emily from Wander-Lush.

Brasov is a charming medieval city in Transylvania Region of Romania. Known for its colorful baroque structures and history, Brasov is one of the hidden gems in Europe.

This town has one of the best locations in Romania if you want to go sightseeing. In the town center alone, you’ll find several things to do in Brasov.

The main attractions include the famous Black Church which earned its nickname when it survived the fire in the 1600s. The town square of Piata Sfatului is where the locals and tourist alike go people watching or just to relax.

And Piata Sfatului is probably one of the quirkiest things to do in Brasov as it’s the narrowest street in Europe. For us, one of our favorite things to do in to simply walk around town and admire the beautiful traditional homes that make up this beautiful town.

The entire town is bordered by the Carpathians on three sides which means it is also close to some of the best spots for nature tripping and skiing during winter. Also, its central location in Romania makes it a good base for several day trips from the town center.

These day trips include a tour to Bran Castle which is known as the Dracula’s Castle and other castles in the area such as Peles and Cetatea Rasnov.

So if you want a less crowded but beautiful and relaxing town, a trip to Brasov is a must.

Quite regularly, only travelers who have already been in the country for a few days, or visit Romania for a second or third time, discover the wonderful area of Bucovina, in the north of the country. And again, most of those who finally decide to visit it, do so for their famous collection of painted orthodox monasteries, which have been the cover of many international travel magazines in recent years and, frankly, they are wonderful.

Today I am not here to repeat what you already know but to bring you this snapshot, a perfect document that conveys how impressed the Bucovina landscapes left me. Maybe the stars lined up so that I could experience one of the most beautiful sunrises of my life, maybe it’s like this on a daily basis.

Whatever it is, seeing the fog rise over the hills – only populated by a few small wooden huts here and there – as the sun was rising, it was one of the most sublime moments I have lived throughout in my travels. And so it was, ladies and gentlemen, how Bucovina stayed in my retina – and, like the visual-being I am, therefore in my heart.

Don’t be afraid to visit Romania during the coldest months. It is one of the best winter destinations in Europe !

Contributed by Inma from A World to Travel.

Piatra Neamt & Neamt Fortress

One of the most picturesque cities in Romania, the highlight of Piatra Neamt is a (short) trek up to Piatra Neamt fortress. Beyond the stunning views from the top of the fortress, you’ll also get to explore one of the most important historic sites in Romania.

To get to the top, the hike is about one kilometer, and there is a small tourist center set up at the bottom. When we were there, we saw some adorable puppies towards the bottom.

The fortress was built in the thirteenth century, and played an important role in the system of defenses organized by Stephen III of Moldavia during the fifteenth century.

Editor’s Choice.

Peles Castle

Peles Castle, known locally as Castelul Peleș is a stunning Neo-Renaissance castle that looks like it has hopped right out of a fairy tale book! This medieval castle is nestled in the hillside of the Carpathian Mountains and is one of my favourite places in the whole of Romania! Peles Castle was built between the years of 1873 and 1914 and was one of the major stops along the medieval route between Transylvania and Wallachia.

Peles Castle comprises of pristine turrets and terraces as well as muralled walls and manicured gardens. This picture-perfect palace is now a museum which displays halls, parlours and salons in exquisite condition with a whole host of paintings, tapestries, furnishings and fabrics to admire. Outside, the grounds feature a range of sculptures, many created by Italian artist Raffaello Romanelli.

While Peles Castle was once home to the Romanian Royal Family, it is now mainly enjoyed by the public and is only intermittently used by the royals to host celebratory events such as the 150th anniversary of the Romanian Royal Dynasty a few years ago.

Visiting Peles Castle is a must for those who love all things magical as it has a truly enchanting presence, and photographers will be in awe of this photogenic castle from every angle! Peles Castle can easily be reached as part of a day trip from Bucharest as it lies just two hours away, so there really is no excuse not to visit this captivating castle.

Contributed by Chrysoula from Historic European Castles.

Horezu Monastery

While Bucharest is lacking nearby UNESCO World Heritage Sites, a great day trip from Bucharest is to visit the UNESCO Site of Horezu monastery in the Southern Carpathian mountains.

According to UNESCO’s inscription :

Founded in 1690 by Prince Constantine Brancovan, the monastery of Horezu, in Walachia, is a masterpiece of the ‘Brancovan’ style. It is known for its architectural purity and balance, the richness of its sculptural detail, the treatment of its religious compositions, its votive portraits and its painted decorative works. The school of mural and icon painting established at the monastery in the 18th century was famous throughout the Balkan region.

It’s easiest to visit from Bucharest by car or you can spend a few days in the area.

The Danube Delta

One of the most incredible places to visit in Romania is the underrated Danube Delta. Most people associate Romania with castles and its gritty capital city but they completely miss out on the Delta, which is situated in the northeastern corner of the country on its border with Ukraine.

The Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has the third largest biodiversity in the world behind Australia’s Great Barrier Reef and the Galapagos. There are over 300 recorded bird species calling the Delta home and the landscapes feel like you’re in the southeastern United States… not in the middle of Europe.

There are an abundance of things to do in the Danube Delta , but I definitely recommend spending some time slowly traveling through its three different channels.

The three channels that eventually flow into the Black Sea are Chilia, Sulina, and Sfantu Gheorghe. Chilia is the youngest and most of it is located within Ukraine. Sulina is the most known and actually has been manipulated by man a lot over the years. And Sfantu Gheorghe is the most sparsely populated and, perhaps, the most remarkable in terms of beauty.

Several interesting settlements and places exist along the Danube Delta. Mila 23 is a laid-back village accessible by boat through the Sulina Channel and its colorful houses, dense forests, and chilled-out vibe will make you think you’ve landed on an island in the Caribbean.

Letea Village is home to an ancient forest and some of Europe’s most famous inland sand dunes. It is also Romania’s oldest nature reserve. Sacalin Island is Europe’s newest piece of land and is located in the Black Sea right beside the Sfantu Gheorghe branch of the Delta. This piece of brand new land is only accessible by boat and is uninhabited.

While it is not a small village but rather a large city, Tulcea makes a great base for exploring the Danube Delta and there is a lot to do there, as well.

The Danube Delta is an incredible place to take some time and explore some of Romania’s (and Europe’s) best nature. It is, without a doubt, one of the most beautiful places in Romania.

Contributed by Megan Starr from MeganStarr.com.

The pretty city of Timosoara is much more than a point of entry to Romania, although it does make for an excellent stop-off if coming overland from Budapest or indeed anywhere in Eastern Europe. Although Timosoara isn’t anywhere near the size of Bucharest, it offers something the latter doesn’t: a charming, historic centre lesser touched by the American-style burger bars that dominate the capital.

With three sunny historic squares, Timosoara offers learning and people-watching opportunities aplenty. During the summer, Victory, Independence and Unity Squares are inhabited by locals who meet to socialize and drink coffee in the sun.

Once you’ve admired the historically significant buildings and learnt about Romania’s rich yet troubled history, you should pull up a chair and join them! Other things to do in Timisoara include walking the river path, heading inside the ornate Orthodox Cathedral and learning about how people once lived at the Communist Consumer Museum.

For foodies, there are some highly recommended cafes and restaurants in Timisoara. Check out Casa Bunicii 1 or Gratarul cu Staif for traditionally meaty Romanian cuisine or Lera’s Bistro for a taste of Serbian food. Family-run Jolie Bistro serves the best international food in town, while Il Gelato Di Bruno are renowned for making the best ice cream.

Contributed by Rose Munday from Where Goes Rose.

Romania - Sibiu - Best Places to visit in Romania

One of the most beautiful cities in Romania has to be Sibiu. This stunning town in Transylvania has a long history of German influence.

Within the UNESCO recognized historic center, you’ll find many beautiful buildings with peeking eyes and colorful facades. Beyond the historic center, you’ll find the old fortifications of Sibiu with its impressive towers and walls.

I especially loved Sibiu as although it’s certainly a touristic attraction in itself, it is walkable, fairly quiet, and full of cozy cafes that you’ll want to pop into. Even after visiting other Romanian cities, I fell in love with Sibiu’s quiet beauty that only becomes even more lovely as the sunsets and golden hour sets in.

If you’re lucky enough, you’ll be able to enjoy one of the local fairs or the annual Christmas market held in the Grand Square.

Do not miss taking the impressive covered tunnel up to the hill towards the Evangelical Church, a beautiful Gothic church that dates back to 1350. WIthin the church, you’ll have impressive views over the city and be able to learn more about the German past of Sibiu.

Eating local is easy in Sibiu as you’ll find several cafes and restaurants that focus on regional food and drinks.

Contributed by Karen Turner from WanderlustingK.

Romania - Arad - Best Places to Visit in Romania Collab

If you are going to visit Timisoara, you should consider visiting Arad. Arad is a city located in the western part of Romania just 60 kilometers far from Timisoara, close to the Hungarian border. It has a population of 160 000 inhabitants and is one of Romania’s biggest industrial regions but also the cultural center with the philharmonic, theater, and museums.

I’ve been in Arad only a few days but it was enough time to jump out in the afternoon and see some of the local attractions. What is worth recommending to see among the others is the 18th-century Stronghold in Arad – it’s quite close to the city center (anyway, Arad is not so big). In the historical market square, you will find many buildings with classical architecture like 19th century Ioan Slavici Theater or the City Hall.

In the evening you can eat really good food as well as drink different kinds of craft beers in Euphoria Restaurant located just next to the Continental hotel where I stayed. If you are going to wander a little further, I recommend using trams. What is interesting is that Arad’s trams are one of the oldest in Romania – the company was founded in 1869.

Contributed by Lucas from Lean Traveller Guide .

The Transfagarasan

Romania - Transfagarasan - Best Places to visit in Romania Collab

My favorite place to visit in Romania is the Transfagarasan. Constructed between 1970 and 1974 for defensive purposes, this road is now one that offers spectacular views. You can get to the Transfagarasan by car – you can go on a one-day trip from Bucharest or as a stop on your Romania trip.

The road is a bit challenging – it has numerous hairpin turns – but not that difficult. It is open from July to the end of September (sometimes just until mid-September) – it actually depends on the weather.

The road takes you to an altitude of 2,042 meters (6,699 ft) and rewards you with amazing views and several waterfalls along the way. There are places where you can park the car and soak in the beauty – and take pictures to remind you of this amazing road trip.

At the top, there is also a cabin – Balea Lake Cabin – where you can stay at. There is also a lake – Balea Lake – and you can snap the perfect Instagram photo here with the cabin reflected by the lake. While you’ll visit this during the summer, you can expect to see some snow! How’s that for a fun experience?

Words can’t really express the beauty of the trip and the amazing feeling you get when reaching Balea Lake. While you may have to go slowly – as many people go there and sometimes lines are formed – the trip will be amazing, I guarantee it.

We try to get to the Transfagarasan once a year – and we never get tired of the views, the smell of the forests, and of the trip itself!

Contributed by Loredana from Earth’s Attractions.

Rupea Fortress

Even though Rupea Fortress is one of the most iconic sites in Romania, it’s not as famous as other Romanian castles , especially compared to other Transylvanian castles like Bran and Peles.

Located about halfway between Sighisoara and Brasov, it was built in the fourteenth century by the local Saxons to protect against incursions from Hungary and the Ottoman Empire.

Combine a visit to Repua Fortress with stops in the local villages of Viscri and Crit.

Targu-Mures

Targu Mures is a unique, historic city in Romania that is full of culture and artistry. The famed city’s name literally translates to “market,” and the city’s bustling streets have once served as the hub for local artisans to showcase their crafts.

Now, the artistic city has evolved into a modern hub for unique restaurants, cafes, churches, and monuments. It’s simply an amazing city for anyone looking to deeply engage with the history and culture of Romania.

Targu Mures is home to many unique landmarks, such as the Apollo Palace and the Palffy House. But its main cultural attraction is located in the southern heart of the Targu Mures Square, where the “Culture Palace” is located.

The Culture Palace hosts many unique museums in the heart of Targu Mures, and the traditional Romanian architecture will be sure to evoke awe in its viewers. I recommend visiting the Teleki Library and the St. Michael Wooden Orthodox Church, both of which are historic landmarks that embody the ancient knowledge and culture of Transylvania.

Targu Mures offers the travel experience of the modern world, with unique restaurants, bars, and other amenities, but also offers the experience of the past unlike any other city in Romania.

Contributed by Andrew Kim from RoadGoat .

Cluj Napoca

Cluj Napoca, the unofficial capital of the Transylvania region in northwestern Romania, is one of the best places to visit in Europe. A perfect getaway for families, Cluj Napoca has many open spaces and attractions that will bring awe to your children’s eyes.

First, Cluj Napoca’s Botanical Garden with its exotic flowers and ponds can bring fairytales to life. Then, for a bit of a thrill take a walk around the Hoia Forest with its haunting, crooked trees. Perhaps you can even tell them local stories of alien encounters and people who disappear when the mist falls. Another place for an adventure is underground within the salt mines, where a boat ride amidst glistening walls awaits. Later on, take a walk around the charming city center and they will feel like they have taken a tour of a storybook.

Aside from its stunning attractions, Cluj Napoca is also a great place to try traditional Romanian food . It has its own delicious culinary specialties like the Varză à la Cluj, a meat and cabbage dish flavored with thyme, cumin, and paprika, and the Ciorbă de fasole cu ciolan, a hearty bean soup topped with smoked pork meat and served in a bread bowl.

As one of those lesser-known cities in Romania, another advantage of visiting the lovely region of Cluj Napoca is that it is rarely crowded and traveling from one place to another is as easy as hopping on an Uber. Accommodation is also affordable and easy to book with all the family packages offered by the hotels.

Contributed by Karolina Klesta from The Lazy Travel Blog.

Bran Castle

The Bran Castle is by far, one of the most spectacular medieval castles in Romania. It’s located in Bran, near the town of Brasov in Transylvania. Transylvania has always been strongly connected to the many vampire myths and folklore and Bran C astle is also often called ”the Dracula’s Castle.”

However, Vlad Tepes (also called Vlad the Impaler, the Prince of Wallachia), the real-life paragon of Dracula, never actually lived in the castle. But he still has a brief, known association to the castle, he was imprisoned there for two months in 1462.

But don’t let that small detail diminish the splendour of this place, Bran Castle is still a fascinating place to visit and you can fully immerse yourself into the colorful history of the region and the castle itself. However, still worth mentioning is that in the villages near Bran there is a belief in the existence of evil spirits called ”strigoi” or ”steregoi” (kind of ghosts) that can be mixed with the vampire folklore as they have many common characteristics. So, maybe these beliefs have supported the myth of Dracula, too.

I recommend reserving several hours for your visit to Bran Castle so that you can explore all the narrow corridors and corners of this remarkable, historical place. The castle is surprisingly big. Bran Castle was built in 1382 and it’s a national monument of Romania. You can reach it conveniently by car or train in just 2.5-3.5 hours from Bucharest. But whatever you do, don’t skip this magical place on your visit to Romania.

Contributed by Piritta Paija from Bizarre Globe Hopper.

Rasnov Fortress

Romania - Transylvania - Brasov - Râșnov Fortress Rasnov

Also known as Rasnov Citadel, this fortress is often overlooked for visitors planning to see Peles or Bran Castle, but you can actually easily combine Rasnov with a trip to Bran Castle from Bucharest.

Located high above the town of Rasnov in the Carpathian mountains, the citadel was built by the Teutonic knights in the fourteenth century and protected the local Saxon population for centuries.

Abandoned in the mid-nineteenth century, it has been recently restored and is now a popular (and photogenic) Romanian tourist destination, complete with a museum about the history of Rasnov.

Editor’s Choice

What to Bring with You to Romania

Greece - Crete - Heraklion - Old Venetian Harbor Luggage

If you’re planning a trip to Romania, you’ll want to pack all the normal essentials, but here are a few things we strongly recommend bringing that may not have crossed your mind. For more, check out our complete Romania packing list.

– A physical guidebook, in paper or on Kindle . We love Lonely Planet Bulgaria & Romania for this region and strongly recommend it to supplement blogs. Blogs are great, but a combination of a blog and a guidebook is key to having the best access to information easily at your fingertips.

– Layers in case of poor weather. We had really bad luck with weather our last trip in Romania – it snowed before Halloween! We always recommend bringing a rainproof jacket like Allison’s personal favorite, the Marmot PreCip , which she has had for years and has held up well to countless abuse over 3+ years of travels. (Here’s a men’s version, too!)

– A water bottle with a filter . While generally, the tap water in big cities in Romania is drinkable, such as in Bucharest and Brasov, we generally recommend using a water bottle with a purifying filter to reduce your plastic consumption and ensure you won’t drink any funny-tasting water on your stomach that could make your trip unpleasant! We recommend the GRAYL water bottle – it filters water perfectly in an instant so that you can even drink from lakes, bad taps, etc.

– Motion sickness pills . Romanian roads are winding and road conditions are not good – not even getting into the drivers, either. If you have a weak stomach like we do, save yourself and bring some non-drowsy motion sickness pills .

– Wet wipes, hand sanitizer, TP & other Balkan transit needs. Bathrooms in the Balkans tend to be… how can we say it?… not so well-stocked. Save yourself the disappointment and bring a mini-rescue pack of wet wipes & hand sanitizer .

– Travel safety items . We think Romania is very safe to travel, but at the same time, it never hurts to be prepared! Some people like to carry money belts , but neither Stephanie or I use these. Instead, we both carry the same PacSafe anti-theft backpack . It has locking zippers, slash-proof construction with metal mesh hidden in the fabric, and tons of other smart security features — all while being cute and stylish enough to be our everyday bag. We recommend it highly for both male and female travelers, as its neutral enough to be unisex. We also strongly recommend travel insurance! Our recommendation is at the bottom of the post.

Read more: Essential Romania Packing List: What to Wear & Pack for Romania

Where to Stay in Romania

We’re in the process of creating comprehensive guides on where to stay in different Romanian cities, but for now, we recommend checking out Booking.com as early as possible. While Romania is underrated by international travelers, many of the best places can book early during the high season because Romanians know where to go.

Romania Travel Resources

Romania - Bucharest - Street art near Carturesti Verona

If you’re going to Romania, we have a goldmine of resources for you to take advantage of! First, check out this guide to planning a trip to Romania . It’s a good starting point for planning your trip.

Next, check out all the things to do in Transylvania and things to do in Bucharest . You can also check out our Instagram guides to Sibiu , Brasov , and Bucharest – more are on the way.

You can also read about the best Romanian castles , the Romanian food you should try on your trip, the best Romanian souvenir s, and inspirational travel quotes about Romania . Plus, how to plan some epic day trips from Bucharest .

We publish new content nearly every day! Bookmark our pages on Romania and the Balkans so that you don’t miss out on any new info or resources that we publish before your trip!

Don’t Forget About Travel Insurance

I’m sure you’re aware that travel insurance is a good idea for traveling in Romania (or really, any part of the world)! Stephanie and I have both been paying customers of World Nomads for the last three years. We love the peace of mind it gives us in case of emergencies, accidents, illnesses, theft, or trip cancellation or disruption.

While the Balkans are perfectly safe to travel around, there’s always a risk inherent in everyday travel, so it’s better to play it safe. The saying goes “if you can’t afford travel insurance, you can’t afford to travel” is true!

>> Get a travel insurance quote for your trip here <<

Pin this Guide to the Best Places to Visit in Romania for Your Trip!

Stephanie has been living in and traveling around the Balkans for the past three years. She’s written for National Geographic Online , appeared on CNN Arabic and in the New York Times , and ridden more Balkan buses than is good for a person.

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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.

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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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!

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Home » Travel Guides » Romania » 15 Best Places to Visit in Romania

15 Best Places to Visit in Romania

Located in central Europe, Romania is most easily known for its famed Transylvania region. Second to that are the wonderfully preserved medieval spots like Sighisoara and fortresses like Bran Castles – which is usually associated with Dracula legend. In just a few hours you can go from the Danube River to the capital city of Bucharest, and then on to the Black Sea. Romania is surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains which attract tourists looking for excellent climbing, trekking, skiing adventures. Romania can be described simply: natural beauty and a wealth of folk culture. Spend time exploring its architectural gems, vibrant art scene, and pristine landscapes and you’ll see why.

Lets explore the best places to visit in Romania :

1. Bucharest

Romania’s capital and commercial centre has a great energy and the locals know how to have fun. Without doubt, Bucharest’s most iconic landmark is the communist-era Palatul Parlamentului government building. With 1,100 rooms and its massive blue-print, it’s the second largest building on the planet.

Enjoy everything from the nightlife in the Lipscani district to the 15th-century Curtea Veche palace where Vlad the Impaler once ruled. Must-sees include the Romanian Athenaeum and Cismigiu Garden.

The city is a combination of modern capitalism and remnants of the communist era, but tucked away in surprising pockets are graceful villas, 17th century churches, lovely parks, and trendy cafes.

Located in Transylvania and ringed by the Carpathian Mountains, Brasov is one of the most visited tourist locations in Romania. Home to the towering Black Church with its 4,000 pipe organ (13th century), it’s definitely worth your time. It combines city life and old world charm with stunning landscapes and rich history.

You’ll want to see Piata Sfatului (Council Square) and the Casa Sfatului (local museum). But the real reason to visit is Bran Castle – otherwise known as Dracula’s Castle.

There’s a ton of myth to sort through, but Bran the setting of Bram Stokers Dracula and is now a museum open to tourists. You’ll love strolling through Brasov’s maze of streets, boho cafes, and real life gingerbread houses.

A couple hours north of Bucharest is Sibiu , situated on the Cibin River in Transylvania. Considered a cultural gem, the baroque squares and quaint cobblestone streets have a unique appeal.

Voted the European Capital of Culture in 2007, Sibiu created the countries first library, pharmacy, and hospital. There’s a large handful of “must visit places,” but the top of the list includes the Brukenthal National Museum, the Gothic church with 6,002 pipes and a dizzying church tower you can climb, the tomb of Prince Mihnea the Bad, who was murdered in front of the church, and the ASTRA National Museum Complex.

Sibiu has more festivals than any other city in Romania – not to mention plenty of theatre, opera, and exhibitions.

4. Sighisoara

Step back in time in Sighisoara , a 12th century Transylvania-Saxon town; perhaps the best preserved medieval town in all of Europe.

This UNESCO World Heritage site is a completely intact gem dating from the 16th century. With nine towers, burgher houses, cobbled streets, and stunning churches, it’s drenched in ambiance and atmosphere.

There’s more to discover about the Dracula legend here – it’s the birthplace of Vlad Dracula, a.k.a. Vlad the Impaler. Vlad ruled during the 15th century and is Bram Stokers inspiration for the fictional Count Dracula. Visitors can stop by his home as well as the Church on the hill, the Dominican Monastery, and the Venetian House.

If you’re looking for a sleepy fishing port to put your feet up for a bit, then Sulina, and its tranquil beach, is just the place.

The town is Romania’s easternmost point and possibly the loveliest stopping point on any Danube journey. Most tourists use Sulina as their home base for deeper explorations into the delta and along the Black Sea.

Explore the Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve, visit Argamum and Enisala, medieval fortresses, and discover Saon and Celic Dere, two orthodox monasteries. No matter what, you’ll be amazed at the diversity of wildlife and the beauty of this tiny town.

The standout attraction in Deva is Citadel Hill, a nature reserve being protected because of the rare floral species found there as well as the horned adder. Built in the 13th century, the ruins of the citadel remain on top of the hill – which you can climb or reach by cable car.

For those on their way to Corvin Castle, it’s a perfect overnight stay. You can enjoy the Arts Theatre, Patria Cinema, and the Old Centre. Some trivia for you: Deva is the gymnastics capital of Romania (remember Nadia Comaneci?)

7. Baile Herculane

Archaeological digs confirm that humans have inhabited the area of modern day Baile Herculane since the Palaeolithic period. You can visit Pestera Hotilor (The Cave of Thieves) to see proof for yourself.

The town is now famous for its luxurious thermal springs. Legend holds that Hercules himself once stopped here to bathe and rest. The city is so fond of its famous visitor that no less than six statues of him have been discovered here.

Since WWII, people have come for the healing properties of the hot springs. Baile Herculane is a funny mix of senior citizens enjoying their retirement and the university crowd, looking for a great holiday.

8. Cluj-Napoca

The unofficial capital of Transylvania, Cluj-Napoca is a vibrant university town. It boasts an energetic nightlight as well as historical landmarks dating back to Saxon rule.

Everyone will tell you, this is a town that’s big on charm. It serves as the film capital of Romania and each May the Transylvania International Film Festival is held here.

Visit Piata Unirii, a Gothic-style church, the baroque-era Bánffy Palace, now home to a Romanian art museum, and a dramatic statue of King Matthais Corvinus (15th century). Cluj often serves as a launching point for trips to the Apuseni Maramures mountain ranges.

Suceava is considered the gateway into all things cultural, historical, and natural in the Bucovina region. It’s also home to the Painted Monasteries.

Once the capital of Moldavia, the city has some incredible landmarks, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Saint George’s Church, the Buconvina Ethnographic Museum, and the Princely Court.

At first glance, this is a pretty unassuming town. However, it makes a perfect base camp for visiting the many fortresses in the area. Plus, it’s a great place to return to every night as the food here is phenomenal and the laid-back nightlife enjoyable.

10. Timisoara

Timisoara is the main social and cultural centre in western Romania. It’s a popular destination among urbanites who love its diversity. Often called Primul Oras Liber (First Free Town), the first anti- Ceausescu protests broke out here and ultimately led to the demise of Ceausescu and his wife in 1989.

City planning dates back to the 13th century and over the years the Romans, Turks, and Serbs, and Austrians have laid claim to the place.

With such a unique history, Timisoara’s public squares, gorgeous parks, neighbourhoods, and beautiful gardens have incredible cultural influences. The city’s second nickname is “Little Vienna,” because of the year-round music festivals, theatre, art exhibitions, and museums.

11. Vama Veche

Near the border of Bulgaria and sitting right on the coast of the Black Sea is Vama Veche. This city knows what its word is, and that word is: Party! (Exclamation point required!).

All summer long you’ll find enticing beach-front bars, restaurants, and clubs with non-stop 24/7 service. Thousands of people flock here at the end of the work week to let loose on the beach. Grand opening weekend is always May 1st weekend and the season closes with the Stuff Stock Music Festival at the end of August.

Swim in the Black Sea, fall in love with the Boho free spirit attitude, and soak up as much sun as you want.

12. Maramures

Travel to Maramures, a mountain region in northern Romania in order to relax and take a long deep breath of fresh air. The region is famous for its wooden churches, most of which are several hundred years old.

The place to be in Maramures is Baia Mare, the capital. For over 2,000 years, people have been mining for silver, gold, and other metals in this traditional Romanian town.

Much of its medieval past has been preserved in the main square, Piata Libertatii. Baia Mare is the best place to get a taste of traditional Romanian life. While there visit Piata Izvoarelor, the open air food market, and Butcher’s Tower.

13. Hunedoara

Ask any Romanian and they’ll tell you that, hands down, the best castle in the country is Corvin Castle, found in Hunedoara. Located in Transylvania in the Poiana Rusca Mountains, the city is a mix of Romanians, Hungarians, and Germans.

Lush trees flank the streets making it an idyllic setting as you make your way to the castle. Also known as Hunyadi Castle, it’s one of the largest in Europe and for those that love visiting European castles, this one is always at the top of the lists.

Don’t let the castle blind you, there is plenty to see and do in Hunedoara. Cinci Lake is nearby, as are Nandru Cave, the Furnace of Govajdia, and St. Nicholas Church. Many tourists also use the city as a staging point for trips into the Poiana Rusca Mountains.

Sinaia is named for Mount Sinai and high above the town, you can see a cross on the mountain, placed there by a nobleman in 1965 who later went on to found Sinaia monastery there.

This mountain resort has a number of things to attract the average tourist, not the least of which is Peles Castle; dating from 1883, it’s an extraordinary site and home of Romania’s first king. It’s filled with hidden passages to tease the imagination.

Sinaia is situated in a small valley filled with marvellous fir-trees. It’s a quaint town that fills with hikers each summer and skiers each winter. Set against the breath-taking crags of the Bucegi Mountains, many tourists come just for the dramatic day hikes.

Ranked as one of the top 22 spectacular tourist destinations, Salina Turda is a salt mine in Durgau-Valea Sarata that’s been open to tourists since 1992.

Roughly two million tourists find their way there each year to see the eclectic coloured Hapsburg facades of the village. Visit the Turda Gorge and the eerie, yet still awesome, salt mine. Strangely, there are some 1000 varieties of plant and animal species in this small area, some of which are quiet rare or endangered.

Just an hour outside of Cluj-Napoca, it makes a great day excursion.

15 Best Places to Visit in Romania:

Baile Herculane
Cluj-Napoca

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15 Top Tourist Attractions in Romania

If you think Romania is just about vampires lurking in dark castles, just waiting to pounce on unsuspecting tourists, think again. Transylvanian vampires loom large, of course, but Romania is so much more than Bram Stoker’s Count Dracula and his Brukenthal Palace. Romania does have its share of medieval castles, but it also has pretty alpine scenery hat offers skiing in winter and hiking in summer. It’s got quaint villages and painted churches that are awesome. Just as awesome are the millions of birds that can be found in the Danube Delta where the river empties into the Black Sea. An overview of the top tourist attractions in Romania:

15. Wooden Churches of Maramures

When foreign rulers of Maramures refused to let the people build long-lasting stone churches, they turned to wood instead. They built about 300 wood churches over a 200-year period; only about 100 of these churches remain in use today. These Gothic structures are mostly Orthodox but there are a few Greek Catholic churches. The churches, usually with tall, slim bell towers, reflect an advanced degree of carpentry. They are both simple and elegant at the same time. Hand painted murals decorate the inside of many churches.

14. Vaser Valley Forestry Railway

Take a trip back in time as you ride through the forests of the Carpathian Mountains on a steam-powered train. Running along the Vaser River, the Vaser Valley Forestry Railway has been in operation since 1932 when it was used to haul logs from the forest to the mill. Today, it also hauls tourists who like the romance of old, narrow gauge trains traveling through pretty, tree-filled landscapes. The ride stops at Paltin where you have two hours to enjoy the scenery and a picnic lunch.

13. Danube Delta

If you’re a nature lover, indulge yourself at the Danube Delta, the largest preserved river delta in Europe; the largest part is in Romania. Be sure to bring binoculars with you, as this is a paradise for watching wildlife, especially birds. Birds flock here from as far away as Egypt and China to breed or winter over. The willow-lined canals offer a great environment for the 300 bird species found here. You’ll also find wildlife such as wildcats, wolves and the occasional boar.

12. Poiana Brasov

When you get tired of seeking out vampires, consider Poiana Brasov for a change of pace. It’s the most popular ski resort in Romania that also draws skiers from all over Europe. Located in the Carpathian Mountains, the ski resort has seven slopes that offer a combined 25 km (15 miles) of skiing. The resort also hosts competitive alpine skiing and figure skating events. After a day on the slopes, warm yourself up with a traditional mulled wine or try some tuică, a plum based pepper-spiced drink.

11. Corvin Castle

Corvin Castle is an imposing medieval, Gothic structure, considered the most impressive medieval castle in Romania. It also is known as Hunyad Castle after the high-ranking official who built it. Corvin Castle is a fairytale castle that is accessed by a wooden bridge that bears a statue of St. John of Nepomuk, the patron saint of bridges. A raven wearing a gold ring is a symbol of the 15th century castle. See, too, the bear pit and the dungeon where people were tortured.

10. Sucevita Monastery

The Sucevita Monastery is architecturally unique, no doubt about that. Somehow the blend of the Gothic and Byzantine styles, plus Moldavia’s painted churches comes together in a spectacular building. The front is cylindrical, topped with a conical roof while the back is rectangular and topped with a small tower. Inside, you’ll find painted murals from the early 1600s and tomb covers embroidered with silver thread. The monastery, located in northeast Romania, is considered one of the most important painted churches in Moldavia.

9. Salina Turda

If you feel like you’re working in a salt mine at home, then you should feel comfortable at Salina Turda. The salt mine, which dates as far back as the 17th century, was used for everything from a cheese storage center to a bomb shelter in WWII after excavations stopped in 1932. Today, it has been transformed into an incredible sci-fi theme park. Located in Ciuj County, Salina Turda has been called one of the coolest underground places in the world. When you visit, you’ll head down about 120 meters (400 feet) before reaching the submerged wonderland. Once inside, you’ll find an amphitheater, a bowling alley, an underground lake with prow boats, and even a Ferris wheel.

8. Transylvanian Alps

The Transylvanian Alps, also known as the Southern Carpathians, aren’t as high as the Rockies or the Himalayas, usually under 2,000 meters in elevation. The exception is Mount Moldoveanu, at 2,544 meters (8,346 feet), the highest point in Romania. The rugged mountains, dotted with sheep-filled meadows with wildflowers, offer some pretty good hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter. Couch potatoes can visit a mist-shrouded Gothic castle instead as they hunt for legendary vampires on their own turf.

7. Biertan Fortified Church

Biertan Fortified Church stands head and shoulders above the other buildings in Biertan, It was originally a Catholic church built when the region belonged to Hungary. It became a Lutheran church after the Reformation. Rather than build a fortress to defend against Ottoman invaders, townspeople fortified the church. Built in Late Gothic style, it is one of the largest fortified churches in Romania. The church is noted for its towers, including one used to store food during sieges and another to imprison husbands who wanted a divorce.

6. Piata Mare

Surrounded by medieval buildings, the Plata Mare, or Big Square as it’s known in English, is a must-see sight in the Transylvanian city of Sibiu. The square had its beginning as a cereal market in the early 15th century. A few decades later, the Tailors’ Guild building went up. It was followed by houses, a Jesuit church and Brukenthal Palace. Big Square was a place for public gatherings, including festivals and beheadings. It was place to see troublemakers as they were displayed in the “lunatic’s cage.”

5. Merry Cemetery

Merry Cemetery in the town of Sapanta isn’t your ordinary run-of-the-mill cemetery. It’s more like a folk art gallery, with colorful tombstones, crosses and statuary celebrating the lives of the deceased. This colorful tradition began with a 14-year-old boy who began carving crosses in 1908. He added poems and painted a portrait of the deceased on the cross; sometimes he even painted how they died. And thus a tradition was born. The background on everything is deep blue, with other colors symbolizing life, death and fertility.

4. Peles Castle

Peles Castle doesn’t have a history of sieges and warfare but it does have something other European castles don’t: spectacular beauty, sitting as it does on a Carpathian hillside. This Neo-Renaissance castle was built by King Carol I who vacationed here in the 1860s. Fairytale-like in appearance, it’s considered one of the most stunning castles in Europe. A 4,000-piece weapons collection reflects the king’s military interests, while a movie room decorated with frescoes reflects the queen’s artistic interests. The first movie shown in Romania aired here.

3. Palace of Parliament

In a country where medieval buildings abound, there’s nothing medieval about the Palace of Parliament in the capital Bucharest . It is a thoroughly modern complex that is considered the largest administrative building in the world. It took 20,000 workers, working around the clock, 13 years to build it. It is an architectural wonder involving 700 architects and design specialists. The palace is a popular tourist attraction with foreigners, but not so much with the locals since it was built by Romania’s hated leader, Nicolae Ceaușescu.

2. Sighisoara Historic Center

If you have preconceived notions of what medieval life was like, Sighisoara Historic Center will certainly fulfill them. Old Town Sighisoara is definitely medieval at its finest. Found by 12th century Transylvanian Saxons, Sighisoara is a great example of a fortified medieval town. It has the traditional narrow streets flanked by colorful stone buildings. It is the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Sighisoara celebrates its medievalness every July with a festival that includes rock bands.

1. Bran Castle

Bran Castle is often associated with Dracula as his home, though there’s no indication that author Bram Stoker even knew of this medieval castle. The castle, a Romanian landmark, has a fairy tale quality, peeking out from forested a hillside near Brasov in Transylvania. With roots dating to the 13th century, this medieval castle today is a museum showcasing art and furniture collected by Queen Maria. It also is home to an open-air museum featuring Romanian peasant buildings from around the country.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Romania

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Reader interactions.

June 14, 2019 at 6:49 am

Unlike historic monuments, the Danube valley to the south west of Romania is just stunning. With rugged valleys cris crossed by the beautiful Danube river , it’s a revival for the soul.

October 7, 2018 at 10:47 pm

You should defenitely visit tirgu mures in the centre of Romania,it has the palace of culture,the medieval fortress and many beautiful places.

February 5, 2018 at 3:07 pm

We invite you to visit The Other Capital of Romania ! Alba Iulia represents the charming mirror in which all the ethnic groups of Transylvania can discover their vigor or their traditions. The heart of Alba Iulia is Alba Carolina Citadel. Alba Carolina, the most representative bastion fortress in Romania and Southeast Europe, built upon the initiative of Emperor Charles the VIth of Habsburg.

List Of The 40 Most Amazing Things To Do In Romania

Written by our local expert Anca-Gabi Cucos

Romanian local, Anca-Gabi is a freelance writer who loves to travel and share her stories about Romania with the world.

Every region in Romania is unique! Here is my list of the best things to do in Romania. This list moves away from Bucharest and also covers areas across the entire Romanian countryside.

This guide to Romania includes many popular tourist attractions, as well as everything from the fortified churches of Transylvania to the Romanian Orthodox Monasteries and other unique things and places to see, to help you plan your trip to Romania this year.

Discover Romania With These Destination Ideas

A Spa Day At Therme
See The Palace Of Parliament
Plan Half A Day At The “Village Museum”
Spend The Night Clubbing In Bucharest’s Old Town
Visit The Cărturești Carusel Bookstore
Water Rafting On Buzau River (Buzau County)
Mud Volcanoes (Buzau County)
Constanta Casino
Constanta Aquarium
Dinner By The Yachts In The Constanta Tourist Harbor
Constanta Old Town
Sun Bathing On Mamaia Beach (Constanta County)

Take A Boat And See The Danube Delta (Tulcea County)

Relax At Gura Portitei (Tulcea County)
Sinaia Casino (Prahova County)
Peles Castle (Sinaia – Prahova County)
Cantacuzino Castle (Busteni – Prahova County)
The Sphinx And The Old Women (Sinaia/Busteni – Prahova County)
Brasov City Center (Brasov County)
Dino Parc (Brasov County)
Poenari Castle (Brasov County)
Horseback Riding In Sambata De Jos (Brasov County)
Skiing In Poiana Brasov (Brasov County)
City Center (Sibiu County)
Astra Museum (Sibiu County)
Transfagarasan (Sibiu County)
Getting A Taste Of Medieval Life In Sighisoara (Mures County)
Transalpina (Gorj County)
Danube Cauldrons (Caras-Severin County)
Bigar Waterfall (Caras-Severin County)
Tunnel Of Love (Caras-Severin County)
Visiting The Secluded Monasteries (Neamt County)
Hiking At The Bicaz Gorges (Neamt County)
Visiting The Suceava Fortress (Suceava County)
Sapanta Merry Cemetery (Maramures County)
See The Wooden Churches Of Maramures (Maramures County)
Turda Salt Mine (Salina Turda)
Cluj City (Cluj Napoca County)
Scarisoara Cave (Alba Iulia County)
Corvin Castle

Skip Ahead To My Advice Here!

Attractions In Romania

With some of the hottest spots in Europe becoming, well… a bit too hot for the taste of many, countries in Eastern Europe have started getting some of the tourist attention they are long overdue .

You may have the option of queueing up for 30-40 minutes in front of the Mona Lisa to get a picture of the picture or take the same photo of the leaning tower of Pisa, or you could head to Romania.

So, now you must be wondering what to see in Romania – lucky you, I promise the sightseeing in Romania will not disappoint. So, let’s go through all the great things to do in Romania.

Best Things To Do In Bucharest

Let’s start by saying that Romania is a huge country. You can visit the seaside , the countryside, and the beautiful mountains – but first, let’s begin in the country’s capital city – Bucharest.

Bucharest Itinerary: Calea Victoriei Bucharest Sunset

Romania is Instagrammable; there is so much to see and do. Let’s start with what to see in Bucharest.

1. A Spa Day At Therme

Therme is one of the most impressive modern attractions in Bucharest . This wellness center with saunas, pools, and other enjoyable recreational activities is only 10 minutes outside Bucharest. So, if you are still feeling jet-lagged, this is the best place to relax and unwind .

2. See The Palace Of Parliament In Bucharest

Things to do in Bucharest - The Palace of the Parliament,Bucharest

This is the second-largest administrative building in the world after the Pentagon – and has to be on top of your what to do in Romania list.

There is a lot of drama around this building as Ceausescu had many old historical buildings demolished in the center of Bucharest to build it. There are some horror stories about dissidents having been convicted of working to their deaths to construct this place. But we will leave it to the guides to explain this to you.

3. Plan Half A Day At The “Village Museum”

Vladimir walking down a path in the Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum

But don’t pick a rainy or cold day for this one, as it is an open-air museum. Here you can step back in time and wander through traditional houses from all over the country that are grouped into regions.

You will see some significant differences between their constructions. This is only to give you a taste of what to expect when visiting the rest of the country. Speaking of taste, there is a restaurant in the center of the museum; you will need to try it out.

4. Spend The Night Clubbing In Bucharest’s Old Town

Practically every building in Bucharest’s Old Town has a restaurant, bistro, bar, or club you can spend a few precious hours in – making finding the best thing to do in Romania easy! You can choose one great spot, stay for the night, or go bar hopping .

The is a popular place, and it will be packed with locals and tourists having a good time.

5. Visit The Cărturești Carusel Bookstore

6 Day Bucharest and Brasov Itinerary - Books

You don’t need to be a bookworm to enjoy a wander through the Cărturești Carusel (Carousel of Light) Bookstore in Bucharest . Located in the Old Town, this is one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world.

Housed in a building constructed in 1903 by wealthy Greek bankers, the store encompasses three floors and thousands of books . Elegantly curved balconies dominate the interior design, while a top-floor tea house provides a superb view of the bookstore below.

Guide to Bucharest
Where to stay in Bucharest
Day trips from Bucharest
Bucharest in winter

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Things to do in romania – muntenia region.

Romania is one of the most beautiful places to visit , especially if you get out of the big cities.

6. Water Rafting On Buzau River (Buzau County)

Are you looking for adventurous things to see in Romania? Rafting is always a blast, and this is no different. Hop into your raft, under your Raft skipper’s direction, and make your way down the Buzau River and get drenched by the river rapids.

7. Mud Volcanoes (Buzau County)

Romania Travel Blog_Things to do in Romania_Mud Volcanoes

Maybe it’s one of the weirdest attractions in Romania. If you visit the mud volcanoes in Romania, bring a change of clothes for when you are done.

What To Do In Romania – Dobrogea Region

There are dozens of top attractions in Romania on this list, and we know you’ll love the Dobrogea region.

8. Constanta Casino

Right between the Constanta (Dobrogea County) Port Authority and the Tourist Port, the Constanta Quai is a beautiful promenade where you can see the beautiful old Constanta Casino. The pictures of this place with the battling waves behind it will be worth the trip.

9. Constanta Aquarium

The Aquarium faces the Casino on the Constanta Quai.

10. Dinner By The Yachts In The Constanta Tourist Harbor

Make sure to call ahead and book a table at one of the restaurants overlooking the tourist harbor. It is charming and usually pretty full.

11. Constanta Old Town

If you do not have reservations for lunch or dinner, you can try any of the restaurants in Constanta Old Town. It is close to the Quai, right above it.

As you make your way up from the Quai to the main square, you will notice a street with a Mosque built right next to a big Orthodox Church and the ruins of the old Roman city of Constanta–Tomis. Several small streets radiate from Ovidiu Square in the center, and since you are there, you can also visit the Archeology Museum.

12. Sun Bathing On Mamaia Beach (Constanta County)

This is one of the most happening locations on the Romanian seashore . It is packed with clubs, restaurants, and many beaches. If you travel up north along the sea line, you will get to Vama Veche, the most funkiest seaside destination you can imagine.

Do not miss these incredible resorts in Mamaia (& the Black Sea Coast)!

Danube Delta. Photo Credit: JC Kole Also, in the Dobrogea area, but in Tulcea County , you’ll find your way to the Danube Delta. This place is one of the most unique, with its species of birds, incredible history, and extraordinary local cuisine. Choose any of the Delta villages with accommodations and get a local to take you down the canals for a tour.

Fun fact: The Delta is the second largest and one of the best-preserved river delta in Europe.

13. Relax At Gura Portitei (Tulcea County)

This is a secluded resort on a patch of land between Golovita Lake and the Black Sea . The location is unique, the accommodation is lovely, and reservations must be made in due time—a perfect place for rest and relaxation.

Explore Romania – Transylvanian Region

Saschiz Church and Clock Tower in the village Saschiz, Transylvania, Romania

14. Step Back In Time At The Sinaia Casino (Prahova County)

A testament to the fantastic heritage left by the Royal Family in Romania , the Sinaia Casino was designed by architects who had worked on some of the most prestigious casinos in Monaco. The tour will amaze you with some of the stories.

15. Peles Castle (Sinaia – Prahova County)

Castles in Romania - Romanian Castles - Peles castle, Sinaia, Romania

Peles Castle is one of the castles of Transylvania you have to see to belive. It is one of the most famous castles in Romania, as it was once the summer residence to the Royal Family. The castle was equipped with all the comfort and innovation of the time. Dive deep into its long history, and you may even hear a ghost story or two in this castle in Transylvania.

16. Cantacuzino Castle (Busteni – Prahova County)

From any of the balconies of the Cantacuzino Castle, you can see the Bucegi mountains in all their glory. And it is a sight you will not regret. Take the tour, find out the story, and take in the beauty of the place as you take lunch on the terrace. If you are lucky, you might even catch a classical music concert in the evening.

17. The Sphinx And The Old Women (Sinaia/Busteni – Prahova County)

These are rock formations situated on a platform 2206 meters high. You can get there by hiking, as there are several scenic routes you can take, or you can take the cable car .

18. Brasov City Center (Brasov County)

How to get from Brasov to Bucharest - Brasov, Romania with an old Christmas tree

This is one of the most popular things to do in Romania. Brasov is beautiful, impressive, and welcoming, with Gothic, Belle Epoque, and Medieval castles and constructions.

Check out the great Brasov accommodations here!

19. dino parc (brasov county).

Take that, Jurassic Park! This is a theme park designed for children and adults alike. Built in a forest, you follow the evolution of dinosaurs throughout the various ages. There are models of dinosaurs constructed according to the latest discoveries.

20. Poenari Castle (Brasov County)

To get to this castle, you need to be fit. You must go up some 1480 stairs, then travel through the woods. Once you get there, a guide will reward you with the castle’s story.

21. Horseback Riding In Sambata De Jos (Brasov County)

22. skiing in poiana brasov (brasov county).

If you happen to be visiting in winter .

23. City Center (Sibiu County)

No, this place is not in Austria, although it looks like it. Sibiu is genuinely one of the best Romanian vacation spots for locals and foreign tourists alike!

Also known by its German name, Hermanstadt, the city represents Transylvania’s multiculturalism and displays many signs of its Saxon heritage. It has a rich and varied cultural agenda, with internationally renowned theater, jazz, and other arts events. There’s also a booming food scene, drawing on modern reinterpretations of Transylvania’s rural gastronomy.

And this beauty of Romania also hosts a top Christmas market in The Balkans !

Check out these excellent hotels in Sibiu, then visit for yourself!

24. astra museum (sibiu county).

This is one of the largest Ethnographic museums. It is located in an open space, so pick the day of your visit wisely.

25. Transfagarasan Highway (Sibiu County)

Driving through the Balkans - Your Guide to Driving In The Balkans - Transfagarasan Pass

Of all the things to see in Romania, the Transfagarasan might be the most photographed. This spectacular winding road cuts through the heart of Transylvania , literally the land between the forests. Start from the picturesque villages of Sibiu and end up at Balea Lake, a glacier lake situated at 2,040 meters altitude.

26. Getting A Taste Of Medieval Life In Sighisoara (Mures County)

Things To Do In Sighisoara - A Medieval-city-center

This is one of the oldest inhabited medieval fortresses. You can spend the night in the fortress as well.

Don’t miss our guide on how to explore Sighisoara.

What to do in romania – oltenia region, 27. transalpina (gorj county) .

This is the highest and most dangerous road in Romania . It is also the most beautiful. Drivers must be careful on a dry summer day . Therefore, the road is pretty dangerous in the dark or rainy weather. Check ahead as the road closes in the cold season.

What To Do Around Romania – Banat Region

Let’s keep discovering more sights in Romania, this time in the Banat region.

28. Danube Cauldrons (Caras-Severin County)

As breathtaking as the Delta but completely different, the Danube Cauldrons represent the river’s entry point into the country. This is a place you will not regret visiting . Boat trips are mandatory.

29. Bigar Waterfall (Caras-Severin County)

This waterfall looks like something out of a fairytale. You might expect some magical creature to pop out at any moment. It is a natural monument that you can visit for free.

30. Tunnel Of Love (Caras-Severin County)

Instagram fanatics and professional photographers will surely want to visit the so-called Tunnel of Love on their to-do lists. Located in the town of Obreja in western Romania , this extraordinary place is an abandoned section of an old railway. The railroad runs through a lush, green tunnel created by bushes and trees. Light filtering through the leaves makes for fantastic photo opportunities. Pure magic!

What To Do In Romania – Top Attractions In The Moldova Region

31. visiting the secluded monasteries (neamt county).

Moldova is the spiritual center of Romania . They have here the highest number of monasteries and churches. Some of them are very old and once served as fortresses. Others are high in the mountains, yet they are impressive constructions.

32. Hiking At The Bicaz Gorges (Neamt County)

A remarkable scenery will open up in front of you as you go hiking around the Bicaz Gorges. Remember that the Ceahlau Mountains are wilder and less accessible than other mountains in the country.

33. Visiting The Suceava Fortress (Suceava County)

The fortress was rebuilt so visitors could get a clear image of how the place was supposed to look. Even so, there is a clear line between the ruins and the new construction, so you always know when you touch rocks that date back centuries. versus the new ones.

Things To Do In Romania – Maramures Region

34. sapanta merry cemetery (maramures county).

This is a place where everybody has to write a funny epitaph for their tombstones. You will see poems and humorous drawings and get a sense of a different relationship with death.

35. See The Wooden Churches Of Maramures (Maramures County)

These unique constructions you will appreciate from up close.

36. See The Wooden Gates Of People In Maramures (Maramures County)

The county in itself is like a huge ethnographic museum. Every wooden gate is unique, and it represents the social status of the owner of the house.

For more information on what to do in Maramures, check out this post dedicated to the region!

Things To Do In Romania – Ardeal Region

37. turda salt mine.

Europe, Romania, Turda, Salina Turda salt mines, Cluj, Romania

It says salt mine, but this place is entirely unexpected . It’s an underground world, looking like something out of a Sci-Fi movie. Business Insider put it at the top of the ‘coolest underground places.’ Well worth the visit!

38. Cluj City (Cluj Napoca County)

This is the second-largest city in Romania . It has many museums, archaeological sites , tourist routes, excellent accommodations, and leisure facilities. t is a place many tourists will love to discover, well-developed and with a Western-like vibe.

Don’t miss our favorite things to do in Cluj-Napoca!

39. scarisoara cave (alba iulia county).

Here, you can visit the biggest underground glacier in Romania and the second-biggest one in South-Eastern Europe .

40. Corvin Castle

A wooden bridge over a body of water. Corvin Castle Hunedoara, Transylvania

Are you looking for spooky things to see in Romania? Well, some say this is one of the most haunted places in the country and on this side of the world .

And if you stop and read the cards on the walls, you will find that there are hardly any rooms in this castle where nobody has died. All in all, it is a fascinating visit. Just stick with big crowds and do not go after dark.

If you are traveling in the cold season, check ahead and see whether some of the outdoor attractions are accessible.

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Visit Romania FAQs

What is the most popular attraction in romania.

The most famous tourist attraction in Romania is Bran Castle, which is popularly known as “Dracula’s Castle.”

What are some notable architectural attractions in Romania?

Some notable architectural attractions in Romania include Peleș Castle, Cantacuzino Castle, and the Black Church in Brasov.

What natural attractions does Romania offer?

The Carpathian Mountains occupy 55% of Romania’s territory and offer excellent hiking and wildlife-watching opportunities. The Danube Delta, a UNESCO natural reserve, is another significant natural attraction with the third largest biodiversity in the world.

Does Romania have a tradition in wine-making?

Yes, Romania has a rich wine-making tradition reflected in its vineyards. Visiting Romanian vineyards is a popular tourist activity.

What are the Painted Monasteries of Bucovina?

The Painted Monasteries of Bucovina are a UNESCO World Heritage site in Romania. They are well-preserved, age-old religious sites featuring unique exterior frescoes.

What are some scenic trips available in Romania?

The Mocanita Steam Train in the Maramures region and the Oravita-Anina Semering train near Timisoara offer picturesque trips through Romania’s beautiful countryside.

What are some of the key tourist attractions in Romania?

The UNESCO Sighișoara Citadel, Palace of Parliament in Bucharest, the scenic Transfăgărășan Highway, and the Merry Cemetery, among others.

What is unique about traditional Romanian food?

It offers unique and delicious flavors attributed to the nation’s agricultural roots and diverse cultural influences, with options for vegetarians as well.

What experience does Bucharest’s nightlife offer?

The area is known for its vibrant energy and cultural richness, with numerous restaurants, bars, and clubs across the city, particularly in the Old Town.

Why should one visit the Romanian Countryside?

It presents an opportunity to experience authentic Romanian culture in its truest form and enjoy life’s simple pleasures in the local villages.

What unique natural formations are there in Romania?

Visitors can explore the mysterious Romanian Sphinx in the Bucegi Mountains and the ‘haunted’ Hoia Baciu forest near Cluj-Napoca.

What types of tours are available for tourists in Romania?

Romania offers a variety of historical and cultural tours, including local food and wine tasting tours, communist tours, and several others.

What type of experiences does Romania offer?

Whether touring major cities, trying traditional food, exploring historical landmarks, or learning about the country’s history, Romania provides diverse experiences for different types of tourists.

If you’re planning a trip and looking for something unique, Romania should definitely be on your list. Forget just hearing about Dracula and Vlad the Impaler; there’s so much more to see and do here.

From bustling cities with walking tours that dive deep into history, to quiet spots in the countryside that’ll make your Instagram pop, Romania is packed with must-see places. Think about enjoying a holiday here as hitting the refresh button with a mix of adventure, culture, and some of the best landscapes Europe has to offer.

It’s all about having a good time and making memories, whether you’re exploring on your own or with friends. So, when you’re plotting your next getaway, give Romania a thought. It’s not just another holiday destination; it’s a place where every visit turns into a story worth telling.

Romanian Food
What To See When You Visit Romania
Bucharest Tours
Things To Do In Brasov, Transylvania
Souvenirs To Bring Home From Romania
Weekend Itinerary In Oradea
Traveling As A Vegan In Romania
How To Travel From Brasov To Bucharest
9 Peaceful Places To Visit In Romania
Best Day Trips From Bucharest

Comments (7)

I like how you categorized the activities and places to visit into regions, it’s helpful for those who are not familiar with Romania. I would also add for Transylvania a tour of the fortified churches which are part of the UNESCO World Heritage.

Last year I made a trip to Romania with a group of close friends. We made a nice trip and we decided to visit Bucharest, Brasov and Sibiu in a rented car. It was so beautiful in Brasov. I`m in love with it. We visited Bran Castle and Peles Castle and we had very nice weather.

In this country, you have so many optionswhen you rent a car.

Romania is one of the beautiful place to visit ,in this blog explained very well about the place it is use full to the people who are planning to move there thanks for telling my home country stories.

Hello. Romania is so beautiful country. We visited Transylvania last summer. It was family trip. We mainly focused on the superb mountains and the Transfagaras route and Transalpin. A terrible bear rash this year:) Because of lack of time we didn’t see so many places…

Hello, Romanian here, I can’t believe you guys didn’t include Bran Castel (Dracula’ Castle) located in the Brasov County. It’s an iconic castle. There’s much more you could add to visit, but all in all it’s a good list. My advice, engoy the country, not the people (urban ones).

Well, that’s a good point, but as you say it’s so iconic that everyone knows about it, we wanted to show other ideas. We’d love to know other things you think we should add – we’ll gladly update it. Thanks.

Hi, The Prahova county is part of Muntenia region. Ordeal is Transilvania.

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21 Beautiful Places in Romania

By Caitlin Morton

Image may contain Walkway Path Sidewalk Pavement Flagstone Roof and Cobblestone

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 .

Image may contain Nature Tree Plant Outdoors Water Fir Abies Animal Bird and Scenery

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.

Image may contain Building Castle Architecture and Fort

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.

Image may contain Road Freeway Highway Scenery Outdoors Nature and Landscape

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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Image may contain Building Hangar and Factory

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.

Image may contain Grass Plant Tree Outdoors Nature Fir and Abies

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).

Image may contain Decebalus Nature Outdoors Cliff Water Promontory and Scenery

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.

Image may contain Floor Flooring Architecture Building Corridor and Housing

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.

Image may contain Nature Outdoors Mountain Ice Snow Glacier and Mountain Range

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.

Image may contain Nature Ice Outdoors Snow Animal Wildlife Bear and Mammal

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.

Image may contain Plant Tree Fir Abies Cliff Outdoors Nature and Conifer

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.

Image may contain Outdoors Nature Land Water Vegetation Plant Tree Grove Woodland Forest Bog Marsh and Swamp

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.

Image may contain Castle Architecture Building Steeple Spire Tower Fort and Moat

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.

Image may contain Human Person Outdoors Nature Building Shelter Countryside Rural Architecture Corridor and Canopy

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 .

Image may contain Water Nature Outdoors River Waterfall Land Vegetation and Plant

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.

Image may contain River Water Outdoors Nature and Dam

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.

Image may contain Flooring Architecture Building Housing Mansion House Palace Floor Indoors Room and Ballroom

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).

Image may contain Building Tower Architecture Spire and Steeple

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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Best Things To Do In Romania

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

roughguides.com
best-things-to-do-in-romania

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 4.01.2023

It’s not possible to see everything Romania has to offer in one trip – and we don’t suggest you try. What follows, in no particular order, is a selective and subjective taste of the best things to do in Romania: outstanding architecture, natural wonders, spectacular hikes and unforgettable festivals.

1. Take a tour of Peleş Castle in Sinaia

2. immerse yourself in romanian capital life in bucharest, 3. floating down the danube delta - one of the exciting things to do in romania, 4. lounge in the sunshine on the black sea coast, 5. take a sightseeing tour of romanian fortified churches, 6. enjoy the architectural monuments created by constantin brâncuşi, 7. go skiing in poiana braşov, 8. stay at sibiu, 9. take a walk in bucovina hills, 10. visit braşov, 11. take a train ride in vişeu de sus, 12. go bear-watching, 13. attend the measurement of the milk festival, 14. walk around the merry cemetery in săpânţa, 15. try a rural retreat in the local villages, 16. appreciate the cultural heritage of wooden churches of maramureş, 17. discover the beauty of timişoara, 18. try sheep’s cheese, 19. explore the street of sighişoara, 20. hiking the făgăraş mountain - one of the breathtaking things to do in romania, 21. immerse yourself in the mysterious legends of dracula, 22. visit painted monasteries, 23. listen to folk and romani music, 24. explore the vast surroundings of the carpathian range, 25. climb towers of corvin castle, 26. see the chambers of turda salt mine, 27. have a taste of traditional romanian food, 28. marvel at the one-of-a-kind mud volcanoes in buzau county, 29. visit the national museum of natural history in bucharest.

The information in this article is inspired by The Rough Guide to Romania , your essential guide for visiting Romania .

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Romania, created by local experts

7 days / from 1944 USD

Relaxing beach fun - the Black Sea Coast in Bulgaria and Romania

The perfect trip for those that are looking for sun, sea and sand while also getting to know the culture and history of both Bulgaria and Romania. Start and end in Bucharest and discover Constanta, Sunny Beach, Nessebar, Burgas and Madara Rider.

8 days / from 1944 USD

The legend of Dracula

Transylvania is known to be the land of Dracula. Are you curious to visit the places mentioned in the book and the castles that hosted the major life events of Vlad the Impaler, the cruel ruler known as Dracula? Explore mysterious places and breathtaking landscapes all over Romania.

12 days / from 3899 USD

Luxurious Highlights of Romania: From Bucharest to Transylvania

Romania offers plenty for the discerning traveller, including beautiful Boutique properties. On this trip, discover Bucharest, the Danube Delta, Bucovina and Transylvania with Dracula's castle. A private guide will accompany you throughout the trip, well-equipped with Romanian knowledge and facts.

15 days / from 3888 USD

World Heritage in Romania and Bulgaria

Discover the most important UNESCO heritage sites in Romania and Bulgaria as well as some lesser-known attractions. From the capital Sofia to Plovdiv and Nessebar, as well as Veliko Tarnovo in Bulgaria to Romania's capital Bucharest to Sibiu, Cluj and Dracula's castle in Brasov.

5 days / from 1809 USD

Delicacies in Romania: food & wine

Perfect for foodies with little time - spend 5 days in Romania between Bucharest and Brasov, home to the famous Dracula castle. On the way, you will pass by vineyards and wineries, with tasting arrangements available for you. A private guide will be with you all throughout the trip.

15 days / from 4860 USD

Grand Eastern-European Tour

The gems of Central and Eastern Europe within 14 days: visit the capital cities Vienna, Budapest, Bucharest, and Sarajevo as well as famous Mostar in Herzegovina and Dracula's castle in Romania.

Once a refuge for Ceauşescu and visiting dignitaries, Peleş remains the country’s most opulent palace. Set in a large English style park, the castle outwardly resembles a Bavarian Schloss and visiting it is one of the best things to do in Romania.

Built in 1875–83 for Carol I, and largely decorated by his eccentric wife Elisabeta (better known as the popular novelist Carmen Sylva), it contains 160 rooms. These rooms are richly done out in ebony, mother of pearl, walnut and leather – all totally alien to traditional styles of Romanian art.

Visit Romania's most beautiful castle, Peleș Castle, and learn about its amazing history. Explore the beautiful grounds and admire the Carpathian Mountains, sitting high just behind the castle on the Castle Tour with An Expert Guide .

Where to stay in Sinaia:

Best for location: Forest Apartments features mountain views, free WiFi and free private parking, set in Sinaia, less than 1 km from Stirbey Castle.
Best for spa: Hotel Sinaia . The centrally-located Hotel Sinaia is right next to the Dimitrie Ghica Park, on the main shopping street. The emblematic hotel offers spa services and features free access to the indoor pool, a sauna and fitness facilities.

Find more accommodation options to stay in Sinaia

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Romania’s noisy, chaotic capital boasts a number of terrific museums, remarkable architecture and arguably the best nightlife in the Balkans. The first point of arrival for many visitors is the capital, Bucharest.

While not an easy city to love – its wide nineteenth-century Parisian-style boulevards are choked with traffic, once-grand fin de siècle buildings crumbling and the suburbs dominated by grim apartment blocks – its cultural institutions, abundant greenery and lively Old Town nightlife reward patience.

In recent years, the gastronomic scene has improved beyond recognition, while a wave of artisan coffee joints has revitalized the city’s café culture.

Explore more things to do in Romanian capital with our guide to the Coffee, cocktails and communism in Bucharest .

Where to stay in Bucharest:

Best for comfort: Crystal Palace Hotel . Renovated in 2018, Crystal Palace Hotel is conveniently located within walking distance from Promenada Mall and 10 minutes by car from Otopeni International Airport and downtown Bucharest.
Best for old town location: Europa Royale Bucharest . Located in a 19th-century building in the very heart of Bucharest’s centre, Europa Royale Bucharest offers air-conditioned rooms and an on-site restaurant serving international menus.

Find more accommodation options to stay in Bucharest

This remote and beautiful landscape is teeming with fabulous wildlife, and promises some of the finest birdwatching in Europe. The Danube Delta is a paradise for wildlife, and after years of environmental neglect culminating in Ceauşescu’s plan to drain the Delta for agricultural use, it was declared a Biosphere Reserve in 1990, with over 500 square kilometres strictly protected, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site the following year.

The area is particularly important for birds, which pass through during the spring and autumn migrations, or come from Siberia to winter here or from Africa to breed in summer.

Spend 2 days discovering the wonderful Danube Delta. In addition to experiencing this UNESCO World Heritage Site, you’ll visit the ancient port city of Tulcea and the old Roman territory Constanta. Enjoy a boating trip to fish or watch the bird life on the 2-Day Tour from Bucharest .

Find accommodation options to stay in the Danube Delta region

Pelican colony Danube delta, Romania © Calin Stan/Shutterstock

Strewn with lively resorts and sandy beaches, the Black Sea coast offers everything from wakeboarding to kayaking, while Constanţa is a cultural hub with a fine restaurant scene. Romania’s Black Sea coast holds the promise of white beaches, dazzling water and an average of ten to twelve hours of sunshine a day between May and October.

Travelling from Bucharest or the Delta, your first stop on the coast will almost certainly be Constanța, a relaxed seaport-cum-riviera town, dotted with Turkish, Byzantine and Roman remains, which has always seemed to keep a discreet distance from the surrounding resorts.

Spend the day at the coastal city of Constanta and get amazing views of the Black Sea. Learn more about traditional life in Romania and top up your tan at the seaside resort of Mamaia on the Constanta and Mamaia Day Trip .

Where to stay in Constanţa:

Best for view: Maritimo Luxury ApartHotel . Located 200 m from Modern Beach and 800 m from Aloha Beach, Maritimo Luxury ApartHotel in Constanţa provides air-conditioned accommodation with views of the sea and free WiFi.
Best for sauna: JMR Royal . Situated in Constanţa and with Aloha Beach reachable within 1.7 km, JMR Royal features a bar, allergy-free rooms, free WiFi throughout the property and a garden. Boasting room service, this property also provides guests with a children's playground. The hotel has family rooms.

Find more accommodation options to stay in Constanţa

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Where to stay around Poiana Braşov:

Best for families: Aurelius Imparatul Romanilor . Picturesquely located on the shore of Miorita Lake, in the mountain resort Poiana Brasov, the 4-star Aurelius Imparatul Romanilor hotel offers stylish accommodation. Free WiFi is offered.
Best for relaxing: Hotel Escalade . Only 100 m away from the ski slopes and a skating rink in Poiana Brasov, Hotel Escalade offers a spa including an indoor pool and sauna.

The Rough Guides to Romania and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Find accommodation options to stay around Poiana Braşov

Red cable car moving down in Poiana Brasov © Novie Charleen Magne/Shutterstock

Beautiful architecture, terrific museums and fabulous festivals make the once great Saxon town of Sibiu one of the alluring things to do in Romania.

Nowadays, the city is surrounded by high-rise suburbs and virtually abandoned by the Saxons themselves, but the Old Town’s brightly painted houses, with “eye” windows to ventilate their attic grain stores, are still startling. Sibiu has many fine old churches and some of Romania’s best museums, as well as the remains of the bastions and fortifications.

Get a perfect introduction to the recently renovated old town of Sibiu and discover one of the cultural capitals of Romania on this Sibiu Sightseeing Tour .

Where to stay in Sibiu:

Best for design: Hotel Anastasia . Situated in Sibiu, within 1.5 km of Union Square and 2.3 km of The Stairs Passage, Hotel Anastasia features accommodation with a bar and free WiFi as well as free private parking for guests who drive. This 4-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and room service. The hotel has family rooms.
Best for families: Harteneck Apartment . Apartments Inn Sibiu-The Old Town offers accommodation in Sibiu, offering an apartment with free WiFi and a well-equipped kitchenette. Great Square is 200 m away and the Bridge of Lies is 450 m away.

Find more accommodation options to stay in Sibiu

Cityscape with old house of historical center of Sibiu town Transylvania, Romania © Chursina Viktoriia/Shutterstock

Cloaked in beech, fir and pine, the gorgeous rolling Bucovina hills are a walker’s paradise. The painted monasteries of Southern Bucovina, in the northwest corner of Moldavia, are rightfully acclaimed as masterpieces of art and architecture, steeped in history and perfectly in harmony with their surroundings.

The monasteries are scattered across a region divided by rolling hills – the obcine or “crests” which branch off the Carpathians – and by the legacy of history. Although settlers from Maramureş arrived here in the mid-fourteenth century, the area remained barely populated for two centuries until Huţul shepherds moved south from the Ukrainian mountains.

They lived in scattered houses in the hills, and the region was a sort of free republic until the Habsburgs annexed northern Moldavia in 1774, calling it Bucovina, a Romanianized version of their description of this beech-covered land (Büchenwald).

Visit five of the most beautiful and representative painted churches in Bucovina on this Private 2-Day Bucovina Monasteries Tour .

Find accommodation options to stay in Bucovina region

Mountain landscape with fog and a haystack, Bukovina, Romania © Seqoya/Shutterstock

Shadowed by mountains and boasting a fine Baroque centre, this erstwhile Saxon settlement is one of Transylvania’s most appealing cities. The town’s proximity to a host of attractions – such as the Piatra Craiului mountain range, the alpine resort of Poiana Braşov, the fortified Saxon churches of Hărman and Prejmer, and “Dracula’s Castle” at Bran – makes it an excellent base.

Most visitors make a beeline for the largely Baroque Old Town, around Piaţa Sfatului, a strikingly handsome, quintessentially Germanic square dominated by the Black Church. Nearby, all coiled beneath Mount Tâmpa, are museums, medieval ramparts and the Schei quarter.

In this full-day tour from Brasov , you will discover 3 of the most beautiful and important touristic sights that Romania has to offer. You will encounter Peles Castle, Bran Castle (Dracula's Castle), and the Rasnov Fortress.

Where to stay in Braşov:

Best for charming vibes: Casa Mandl is set in the centre of Brasov, in the historic Council Square, and offers stylish accommodation with views of the Black Church and the Tampa Mountain, free WiFi, and public parking 200 m from the building.
Best for panoramic view: Belfort Hotel . Located at the foot of Tâmpa mountain, Belfort Hotel enjoys a central location in a tranquil area of Brasov, just a 5-minute walk from the main pedestrian street.

Find more accommodation options to stay in Braşov

Brasov, Romania © emperorcosar/Shutterstock

Add to your list of things to do in Romania a ride up the picturesque Vaser valley by early-morning logging train. Just east of Vişeu de Jos is Vişeu de Sus, a logging town that’s growing into a tourist town thanks to the popularity of the steam train from here up the steep Vaser valley.

The narrow-gauge railway up the wild Vaser valley, towards the Ukrainian border, is still used by diesel-hauled logging trains; in addition, tourist trains run as far as Paltin, 21km up the valley. These are hauled by small steam locomotives – known as mocăniţa, meaning “little mountain shepherd” – which have been restored by enthusiasts, the oldest dating from 1910.

There’s a pleasant café in a typical wooden house at the departure point, with a small exhibition on the town’s vanished Jewish community. There are also three preserved steam locomotives here, including a huge standard-gauge beast near the train-hotel.

Enjoy a guided day trip to Maramures Mocanita train from Cluj-Napoca and discover Europe’s last historic forest railway. Learn its history, and admire this spectacular 20th-century working train.

Find accommodation options to stay in Vişeu de Sus

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Spend a day trailing Romania’s largest carnivores – if you’re lucky, you may see one of these magnificent creatures up close.

The Piatra Craiului National Park is ideal for all kinds of outdoor pursuits, from observing animals in the wild to guided walks and sporting activities such as climbing and caving. These are organized by various local agencies, mostly members of the Association of Ecotourism in Romania dedicated to nature conservation and sustainable tourism development.

The most popular is bear-watching, which is now offered by dozens of companies, as well as some accommodation providers, though the following come highly recommended: Carpathian Nature Tours or Discover Romania . You’ll typically be taken up to a forest hide at dusk, and although patience is key (which is why it’s unsuitable for young children), there’s about an eighty percent chance of seeing a brown bear in its natural habitat.

Discover the Romanian Carpathian where over 5500 bears roam, on a wildlife watching adventure . Admire species like lynx, wolves, and bear from a special observation hide.

Carpathian brown bear in the wilderness © Angyalosi Beata/Shutterstock

At this enjoyable and unusual spectacle, Transylvanian shepherds vie to see who has the most productive animals.

The practice of shepherds spending summer in the high pastures protecting the flocks from bears and wolves while making cheese gave rise to Measurement of the Milk Festivals (Măşurisul Laptelui). At dawn on the first or second Sunday in May, the flocks are brought to a glade outside the village, where the “measurement” takes place.

The nanny goats are milked by women and the ewes by shepherds – the yield of each family’s animals is measured to determine the share of cheese that they will receive that season. The ritual is followed by much feasting and dancing.

The Merry Cemetery (Cimitir Vesel) is a forest of beautifully worked, colourfully painted wooden grave markers carved with portraits of the deceased or scenes from their lives, inscribed with witty doggerel (in Romanian).

Some are terse – “who sought money to amass, could not Death escape, alas!”. While a surprising number recall violent deaths, like that of the villager killed by a “bloody Hungarian” during World War II. Or a mother’s final message to her son: “Griga, may you pardoned be, even though you did stab me”.

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Romania is home to several wonderful rural retreats offering cheap, friendly and relaxing accommodations, and great home-cooked food. Staying in these homestays is one of the best things to do in Romania.

Village homestays (agroturism) – rural farmhousestyle accommodation – offer visitors the opportunity to spend some time with a Romanian family (most of whom won’t speak English) in often lovely surrounds. The downside is that many places are in fairly remote locations, and are therefore difficult to reach without your own transport.

This excellent website lists a number of homestays throughout the country. The official nationwide body for homestays is ANTREC .

The church from Magura village, near Zarnesti city, Brasov county, Transylvania, Romania © Iulius Agency/Shutterstock

The beguiling landscape of this isolated region is dominated by marvellous wooden churches.

A swathe of wooden churches stretches across Eastern Europe, from northern Russia to the Adriatic, but in terms of both quality and quantity the richest examples are in Maramureş. From 1278, the Orthodox Romanians were forbidden by their Catholic Hungarian overlords to build churches in stone, and so used wood to ape Gothic developments.

It was long thought that most were rebuilt after the last Tatar raid in 1717, acquiring large porches and tall towers, often with four corner-pinnacles, mimicking the masonry architecture of the Transylvanian cities. However in 1997 a tree-ring study showed that the wood used in many churches – notably those of Corneşti, Breb and Onceşti.

A tour to Rural Romania bringing you to the rural region of Maramureş, a place with beautiful natural landscapes where traditions such as wood carving have been maintained for generations.

Find accommodation options to stay in Maramureş region

Barsana Wooden Monasteries, Maramures, Romania © Mikadun/Shutterstock

The crucible of the 1989 revolution, this most cosmopolitan of Romanian cities promises handsome architecture, fine parks and a vibrant arts scene. The engaging city of Timişoara has long been the most prosperous and advanced of the Banat’s cities. It is the first place in Romania to have a public water supply, the first in Europe to have electric streetlighting and one of the first in the world to have horse-drawn trams. It still boasts Romania’s premier technical university.

Close to the borders with Serbia and Hungary, and with flights from all over Europe and Romania, Timişoara is also a major transport hub. The city’s sights are clustered around the two large main squares, Piața Victoriei and Piața Unirii.

Where to stay in Timişoara:

Best for deluxe stays: Old Town Hotel . Featuring a bar, shared lounge and views of city, Old Town Hotel is located in Timişoara, 400 m from St. George's Cathedral Timișoara.
Best for modern stays: Mercure Timisoara . This 4-star hotel has city views, and guests can enjoy access to a shared lounge and to a terrace.

Find more accommodation options to stay in Timişoara

View of one part at Union Square in Timisoara, Romania, with old buildings and mineral fountain © Martina Pellecchia/Shutterstock

Fresh from the highland pastures, a sample of tasty sheep’s cheese is a must. Romanian cheese (brânză) is mainly handmade from sheep’s milk by shepherds who spend the summers in the hills with their flocks. The standard hard cheese is known as caşcaval, while caş is a less salty version of feta, and telemea is a soft and creamy white cheese matured in brine.

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Sighişoara is an atmospheric medieval town with a brooding skyline of ramparts, towers and spires. A forbidding silhouette of battlements and needle spires looms over Sighişoara (Schässburg to Germans and Segesvár to Hungarians); as the sun descends behind the hills of the Târnava Mare valley it seems a fitting birthplace for Vlad Ţepeş, “The Impaler” – the man known to so many as Dracula.

Now on UNESCO’s World Heritage List, Sighişoara makes the perfect introduction to Transylvania. The Old Town or citadel is unmissable, dominating the newer quarters from a rocky massif whose slopes support a jumble of ancient, leaning houses, overlooking the steps leading up from Piaţa Hermann Oberth to the main gateway.

Explore the narrow streets of the only inhabited medieval citadel in Europe and enjoy the history of this UNESCO heritage site as you listen to the stories about the most famous vampire in the world, Dracula on the Sighişoara Tour of Dracula's Home Town .

Where to stay in Sighişoara:

Best for unique stays: Casa Savri . Located in a historic building, Casa Savri welcomes its guests with a blend of modern amenities and traditional Transylvanian Saxon architecture and décors. You will find yourselves right next to the inhabited Medieval citadel of Sighişoara.
Best for food: Pensiunea Gasthaus Alte Post is located in the historic centre of Sighişoara, just 300 m from the Clock Tower, and offers a restaurant serving local Transylvanian cuisine. Free WiFi access is available in all public areas.

Find more accommodation options to stay in Sighişoara

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The spectacular peaks of the Făgăraş provide access to some rewarding hikes. The Făgăraş range, composed mainly of crystalline schists with occasional limestone outcrops, is a series of pyramidal crests, linked by narrow ridges harbouring a score of lakes at heights of 1800 to 2250m. Up to about 2000m the slopes are covered with spruce forests sheltering deer, bears, chamois and other wildlife.

Most hiking routes are well marked and easy to follow with Dimap’s 1:60,000 Munţii Făgăraşului map, which can be bought in Braşov, Bran, Făgăraş or Sibiu, or in the mountain cabanas. It’s useful, but rarely essential, to reserve accommodation. Always carry ample food and water, waterproofs and good boots – the weather is very changeable on the ridge.

Transfagarasan highway, the most beautiful road in Europe, Romania (Transfagarash), Ridge Fagaras © Yevhenii Chulovskyi/Shutterstock

The Princely Court at Târgovişte is just one of many sites linked to the Dracula legend. Truth, legends and fiction swirl around the figure of Dracula like a cloak, and perceptions of him differ sharply.

In Romania he is renowned as a patriot and a champion of order in lawless times, while the outside world knows him as the vampire count of a thousand cinematic fantasies derived from Bram Stoker’s novel of 1897 – a spoof-figure or a ghoul.

Although the tourist industry focuses on Bran castle in Transylvania, which has almost no connection to the Dracula myth (aside from the fact that he may have attacked it on occasion),Cetatea Poienari (Poienari Castle, aka Dracula’s Castle) was once Vlad the Impaler’s residence, and its location in the foothills of the Făgăraş mountains makes for a wonderfully dramatic setting.

Discover some of the medieval castles of Transylvania on a full-day tour from Bucharest and visit the castle most associated with the legend of Count Dracula. Visit Peleș Castle and take a walking tour of Brașov.

Read more detailed information about one of Romania's symbols in our guide: Visiting Vlad the Impaler .

Bran castle in autumn, Romania © Zamfiroiu Dragos Marian/Shutterstock

The monasteries of southern Bucovina and Moldavia are renowned for their magnificent exterior frescoes. Given that almost everyone comes to Southern Bucovina to visit the painted monasteries but public transport to them is limited, it’s not surprising that many visitors opt for organized tours, which can be arranged either in Suceava or Gura Humorului. .

However, by making the trip independently, you’ll be able to spend more time at each monastery and stay in Bucovina’s charming pensions, many of which serve terrific home-cooked, organic meals. There’s not much choice at Moldoviţa, but plenty at and around the other monasteries.

The Moldovita Monastery, Romania. One of Romanian Orthodox monasteries in southern Bucovina © emperorcosar/Shutterstock

Don’t miss the fantastic, irrepressible sounds of Romanian folk and Romani music. In recent years Romani music has shown an extraordinary growth in popularity — particularly outside of Romania.

Some 40km southwest of Bucharest is the small village of Clejani, which is renowned throughout the region as a centre for Romani music. This area was home to members of world-famous bands such as Taraf de Haidouks and Mahala Rai Banda. It is also the home of many other talented Romani musicians.

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One of Europe’s least spoiled mountain ranges, full of wildlife and first-class hiking trails. Crisscrossed by an intricate nexus of forestry tracks and waymarked paths, the beautiful and unspoiled Romanian countryside offers some of the most enjoyable hiking anywhere in Europe, with trails to suit all abilities.

Cutting across the country are the sinuous Carpathian mountains – a continuation of the Alps – whose best-known range is the Făgăraş, between Braşov and Sibiu in the south of Transylvania, harbouring more than seventy lakes and Romania’s most elevated peaks, the highest of which is Moldoveanu (2544m).

A beautiful mountain landscape in Carpathian mountains, Romania © Romija/Shutterstock

Hunedoara (Vajdahunyad/Eisenmarkt), 16km south of Deva, would be dismissed as an ugly, run-down industrial town were it not also the site of Corvin Castle, Romania’s greatest fortress. Patrick Leigh Fermor found its appearance “so fantastic and theatrical that, at first glance, it looks totally unreal”.

The castle is an extravaganza of galleries, spiral stairways and Gothic vaulting, most impressively the Knights’ Hall (immediately to the right), with its rose-marble pillars, a display of weaponry and a statue of Iancu. To the southwest a long gallery bridge leads to the isolated Neboisa Tower (from the Serbian nje boisia or “be not afraid”), built by Iancu in 1446–56.

To the east the Council Hall is similar to the Knights Hall, divided by a row of columns. To the north, the Mátyás wing, which sports a fine Renaissance loggia, houses a display of costumes and sixteenth-century Florentine cassone chests. Viewpoints outside the fortifications give views of the fifteenth-century rhomboid pattern on the exterior of the Painted Tower, and of the steeple added in 1873, with a bronze knight on top.

Find accommodation options to stay near the Corvin Castle

Corvin castle, Romania © RossHelen/Shutterstock

The Salina Turda (Turda Salt Mine), the Turda’s main attraction, is on its northern edge in Valea Sărată, where a new entrance allows access by modern panoramic lifts, instead of rickety wooden staircases. Gradually excavated over 240 years, the mine consists of several huge hangar-like chambers, the most impressive being the cavernous Rudolf Mine, some 80m long, 42m high and 50m wide.

It is now a glitzy underground theme park, with a Ferris wheel, bowling, minigolf and table tennis among the many activities, though all of these do cost a little extra. You’ll also pass through the Joseph Mine, known for its twenty or so echoes, and another with an altar sculpted from salt, allowing religious services and prayers before miners began their shifts.

Discover Turda Salt Mine and Corvin Castle, the largest gothic structure in Romania on this day trip from Timisoara . Climb towers, see chambers and descend 120 meters below ground.

Find accommodation options to stay near Turda Salt Mine

Turda salt mine in Romania © FrimuFilms/Shutterstock

Romanian cuisine tends to be filling and wholesome, with menus dominated by meat, in common with the rest of the Balkans.

Perhaps the most authentic Romanian dish is sarmale – cabbage leaves stuffed with rice, meat and herbs, usually served (or sometimes baked) with sour cream or horseradish; they are sometimes also made with vine leaves (sărmălute in foi de viţă).

Stews (tocane) and other dishes often feature a combination of meat and dairy products Muşchi ciobanesc (shepherd’s sirloin) is pork stuffed with ham, covered in cheese and served with mayonnaise, cucumber and herbs, while muşchi poiana (meadow sirloin) is beef stuffed with mushrooms, bacon, pepper and paprika, served in a vegetable purée and tomato sauce.

From the heart of the city to the tastes of the country, this tour takes you on a historical, architectural, and culinary adventure through the many faces (and tastes) of Bucharest!

Meat rolls sarmale in clay bowl, Romanian food © Shutterstock

Pākelele Marie and Pākelele Michi mud volcanoes are located in the Buzau county of Podkarpackie. These are the only miniature mud volcanoes in Europe whose existence is determined by the eruption of gas from beneath the ground. You can see a real mud volcano erupting in this area.

Among the locals they are known as "pacla" (Romanian for "fog") and their similarity to real volcanoes is remarkable. Although the processes involved in these small volcanoes are similar to their majestic counterparts, what sets them apart is what they spew to the surface. Instead of bubbling lava, these little gurgles bring mud and water to the surface.

Explore the largest salt mine in Europe, Slanic Prahova, and the botanical reservation of the Berca Muddy Volcanoes. Enjoy a private and guided tour from Bucharest .

Find accommodation options to stay in Buzau County

Erupting mud volcanoes in Buzau, Romania © Shutterstock

One squarely for the kids, the Muzeul de Istorie Naturală Grigore Antipa (Natural History Museum) is named after the noted conservationist and founder of Romanian ichthyology. Indeed, Antipa (1867–1944) was the museum’s director for more than half a century.

The museum’s centrepiece is Deinotherium gigantissimus, a 4.5m-high fossil elephant from the late Miocene period unearthed in Vaslui County, Moldavia, in 1890 and believed to be the largest of its kind in the world.

The basement covers Romania’s wonderfully diverse geographical regions, from the Delta and Black Sea Coast to the Carpathians, while the ground floor is devoted to world fauna; among the obligatory selection of stuffed animals, keep your eyes peeled for some rather gruesome-looking reptilia, like the hellbender salamander and the saw-scaled viper.

Choose the best option to travel on a budget among the various destinations in Europe with our guide to 20 best places to visit in Europe on a budget .

If you prefer to plan and book your trip to Romania without any effort and hassle, use the expertise of our local travel experts to make sure your trip will be just like you dream it to be.

Ready for a trip to Romania ? Check out the snapshot The Rough Guide to Romania . If you travel further in Romania, read more about the best time to go and the best places to visit in the country. For inspiration use the itineraries from The Rough Guide to Romania and our local travel experts . A bit more hands on, learn about getting there , getting around the country and where to stay once you are there.

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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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Corvin Castle

Transylvania

Some castles perch on mountains, others skulk in mist-shrouded hills, but Hunedoara’s juts out from an industrial jungle. Despite being surrounded by…

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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Train Travel

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Aboard the Dacia, one of Europe's famous long-distance night trains; Monisha Rajesh experienced middle of the night passport checks and some hunger pangs.

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The medieval Castle of Bran, known for the myth of Dracula.

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Romanian Athenaeum beautifully lit up at night during the Spotlight Bucharest International Light Festival © Radu Bercan / Shutterstock

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Overview of walled town of Sighisoara, birthplace of Vlad Dracula.

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!

Your Romanian Friend

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Local insights from Romania

4 times a year we prepare a newsletter with local stories, places and our special insights about Romanian culture and local life that will inspire you to visit our country and have an authentic local experience. Would you like to get it?

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12 Best Cities to Visit in Romania (+Map)
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. ... 15 Top Tourist Attractions in Romania. 25 Best Places to Visit in Eastern Europe. 6 Most Beautiful Regions of Europe. 10 Best Places to Visit in Romania.
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'.
BUCHAREST
Bucharest is Romania's largest and foremost centre of higher education. The University of Bucharest was founded in 1864 by prince Alexandru Ioan Cuza, ruler of the newly united principalities of Walachia and Moldova. The home of the university is a neoclassical building (completed in 1859) located in the heart of Romania's capital city.
Romania
a dynamic country rich in history, arts and scenic beauty. Romania offers countless unique travel experiences that are waiting to be discovered. A journey of three to four hours, by car or train, can take you. from the Danube River to a beautiful, intact, medieval town; from Bucharest - Romania's capital city - to the Black Sea;
Top 10 Best cities in Romania to visit in 2024
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.
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Photo by Emily Lush. Reused with permission. Home to one of the best-preserved medieval citadels in Europe (and one of the few that remain inhabited), Sighisoara is a must-visit in Romania. Located 300 km north-west of Bucharest, Sighisoara is one in a constellation of fortified Transylvanian cities.
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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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Best of Romania and the Danube Delta Tour - On this 12 days tour you'll see some of the most amazing sites in Romania like the famous Bran Castle, the Rodna Mountains, and the breathtaking Danube Delta! Starting from €2300 the costs include meals, transport, hotels and guides. Book a 8 day tour of Romania. 5.
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Coming by car, it's worth stopping at some great viewpoints over the city at km 4.5. This is Romania's premier ski resort, and while it's a great place to learn, with lots of English-speaking instructors, experienced skiers may soon be bored (although some slopes are steep and often icy). ... If you travel further in Romania, ...
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8. Bran Castle (Dracula's Castle) 6,234. Speciality Museums. Bran Castle is one of the most famous landmarks in Transylvania, and is known as the home of Count Dracula. The 14th-century hillside castle and fortress, however, actually houses a collection of furniture and artworks that once belonged to Marie, Romania's last queen.
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Brasov. Brasov is located in the center of Romanie. Surrounded by the Carpathian mountains, you have to see Brasov if you plan to ski in the surroundings. Brasov is mostly known for its black church. Indeed, in the 17th century, a fire blackened the stones. Go see Strada Sforii, the narrowest street in Romania.
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Best time to visit Romania. Best things to do in Romania. Find Dracula. Discover the carved face of Decabalus. Visit the wooden churches of Maramures. Take a steam train through a mountain pass. Discover the oldest history of Romania. Travel to the moon-like mud volcanoes. Visit the Fairy Tale Town of Sighisoara.
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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 ...

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

Romania - Travel and Tourism information

Authentic Romania

Natural Romania

Cultural Romania

Active Romania

General Information about Romania

Romania Main Visitor Attractions

Special Interest Travel

Romania Historical Regions

Main Cities in Romania

Romania Trip Planner

Special Offers & Best Buys

What travel guides say about Romania:

Top 10 Best cities in Romania to visit in 2024

Best cities in Romania

The Palace of the Parliament in Bucharest

Bucharest old town

Calea Victoriei

Parks in Bucharest

Constanta, the largest city in Dobrogea

Sinaia – one of the most beautiful small towns in Romania

Iasi, the largest city in Moldova

Brasov Romania

Some of the tours reaching these cities in Romania are:

3 days in Transylvania medieval tour

Bucharest city tour one day long

The Black Sea and Constanta city Tour

Unesco tour in Romania 14 days itinerary

Sighisoara, the beautiful medieval fortress in Transylvania

Art nouveau in Romania: Oradea

Cluj Napoca, the largest city in Transylvania

Targu Mures

You may also like:

Privacy Overview

17 of the Best Places to Visit in Romania for Every Kind of Traveler

Here are the best places to visit in Romania (as picked by travel experts!)

Piatra Neamt & Neamt Fortress

Peles Castle

Horezu Monastery

The Danube Delta

The Transfagarasan

Rupea Fortress

Targu-Mures

Cluj Napoca

Bran Castle

Rasnov Fortress

What to Bring with You to Romania

Where to Stay in Romania

Romania Travel Resources

Don’t Forget About Travel Insurance

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