weird tourist attractions in romania

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of contents

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

3. A Gothic Masterpiece in Brasov: The Black Church

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

• 12. Try traditional Romanian food & tasty vegetables

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

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

• 17. Go out in Bucharest's Old Town

18. See the Romanian Sphinx in Bucegi Mountains

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

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1. Visit Dracula's Castle aka Bran Castle

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

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

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

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

Bran Castle Tours

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

2. Romania's most beautiful castle: Peleș Castle

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

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

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

Peles Castle Tours

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tours & Day Trips in Brasov

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

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

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

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

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

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

Tours & Day Trips in Sibiu

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

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

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

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

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

Hiking & Trekking Trips

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Start from: Tulcea

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

2-Day Danube Delta & Birdwatching Tour from Bucharest

Start from: Bucharest

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

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

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

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

Oh, and the wines have amazing value(taste)-for-money, comparable to what you’ll find in France or Italy. So you know what this means, right? A wine tasting is one of the most underrated things to do in Romania!

The Wine Tradition of Romania: Premium Wine Tasting in Dealu Mare

Bike & Wine Tasting Trip in Bucharest Countryside

Start from: Dealu Mare wine area (or Bucharest)

Unfortunately due to high demand and low capacity, most wineries organise wine tastings only for groups of 4 people or more. So if 2 people show up it’s unlikely they’ll take them. But luckily for you we developed strong partnerships with some premium wineries so if you want a Romanian wine tasting paired with local cheeses for two - we can arrange that!

Let’s go back to the mountains! One of the more unique things you to do in Romania is wildlife watching - especially brown bears of which we have the largest population in Europe!

As many areas in the Carpathian Mts. are untouched and wild, lots of animals roam these lands freely: bears, deer, lynx, bisons, boars, wolves and many more. Romania is known as Europe’s last wilderness reserve with two documentaries about this: Wild Carpathia and Untamed Romania.

And that's part of the reason why it may be dangerous for hikers to go on their own.

But if you want to see wild animals in their natural habitat while staying safe we have a selection of wildlife tours most of which take place in Brasov county. Our specialist wildlife guides will take you deep in the mountains.

85-100% chances of seeing bears on this tour:

Short Bear Watching Experience from Brasov

Start from: Brasov

60-80% chances of seeing bears and other animals on this tour:

Bear Watching Safari in the Wild

70-100% chances of seeing animals on this unique trip in Romania's wildest area run by a conservation non-profit:

3-Day Hiking & Wildlife Trip at an Eco-Luxury Private Cabin in Fagaras Mts

Start from: Rucar, Arges county

Please note - these tours are NOT regular hiking trip: you will go on unmarked trails or difficult terrain to high-altitude observation points. Difficulty is higher, logistics complex and prices reflect that.

Here's how animals have fun in Piatra Craiului National Park

Remember - Mother Nature can't be controlled or predicted, so seeing animals is not guaranteed. But our wildlife guides are experts with a good sense for animal movement. They will do their best to increase the chances of you seeing them and will give you a live lesson about tracking animals their natural habitat. So this is a great way way to learn about Mother Nature - especially for teenagers and young people!

Birdwatching can also be done in some forests close to Brasov where our specialist bird guides can take you on a private trip. Or in one of the many national parks in Romania .

Seeing wild animals is definitely a unique activity in Romania - but you can also see friendly animals such as sheep and cows during a hike in Piatra Craiului National Park (close to Brasov) or Apuseni Natural Park (close to Cluj-Napoca). You'll probably go hiking in traditional villages and try local specialty cheeses cold cuts and homegrown vegetables from the villagers.

Ok - back to culture! There are many beautiful churches in Romania tourists can visit because spirituality plays an important role in our culture and life. But among them the Painted Monasteries of Bukovina definitely stand out.

Built between the 15th and 16th centuries, these monasteries are known for their impressive exterior frescoes which depict scenes from the bible and are incredibly well preserved despite their age - almost by miracle!

So vivid and unique these paintings are that they are part of World Heritage . There are 6 painted monasteries to visit each located in small villages in the Bucovina region: Voronet, Humor, Moldovita, Pataruti, Probota, Suceava, and Sucevita.

Each of the monasteries’ frescoes use different colours to depict saints, major Biblical scenes and local legends. The quality and style of these paintings is truly impressive considering how old they are. And because they're so well preserved with only minor works carried out over hundreds of years, religious people believe these churches have significant spiritual power and meaning.

A great place to start visiting the Romanian painted monasteries is the UNESCO world heritage site of Voronet which is the most famous among them for its unique 400-year old unchanged blue nuance that depicts Judgement Day in an impressive frescoe.

5-Day Complete Tour of Traditional Maramures & Bucovina

Start from: Cluj-Napoca

Even though the monasteries are among Romania's most famous tourist attractions, please keep in mind they are also active religious sites served by monks and nuns who live there. Romanians are very religious people so visiting these sights require that you be respectful of local customs and not use selfie sticks or act like an ignorant tourist.

Finally, the logistics of visiting the churches is a bit more complex too: you'll need at least 3 full days to travel to Bucovina region from Bucharest and have enough time to visit the monasteries and other attractions in the area, of which there are plenty. You may want to check our guide for public transport in Romania to understand why we keep saying logistics are complicated... :)

The Semering Oravita-Anina train in Timisoara

The best way to enjoy Romania’s natural beauty is through slow travel. Hiking or going by car on countryside roads may be what comes to mind - but there’s a better alternative: old steam trains moving at 50 km/h through beautiful natural areas not accessible any other way! How cool is this?

The Mocanita Steam Train in the North-Western Maramures region is probably the most famous.

A 3-hour long ride (with multiple stops) through valleys, hills and woodlands will make you appreciate nature’s simple beauty - best enjoyed slow, of course! This narrow railway was originally used for forest exploitation activities and the Mocanita (name of the train) is the only one capable of navigating it.

2 or 3 Days in Maramures: Wooden Churches, Traditions & Village Life

A similar steam train ride can be found in the neighbouring region of Bucovina and is called Hutulca.

Hotspots around Timisoara: Bigar Waterfall & Oravita-Anina Steam Train

Start from: Timisoara

But my favourite train ride is lesser known – and more beautiful – the Oravita-Anina Semering train, South of Timisoara (pictured above). The Semering (name of the train) will take you on a route where picturesque scenery with mid-level mountains and open valleys dotted by traditional villages.

• Pro tip: the best time I like to go on these train rides is during mid-September - late October when the autumn foliage offer spectacular views!

Sighișoara is a small city in the heart of Transylvania where you'll find one of the most culturally significant and popular tourist places to visit in Romania: Sighisoara Citadel another UNESCO heritage site with a long history to tell.

Situated on a small hill overlooking the plains of Transylvania, this fortified citadel from the Middle Ages was built in the 12th century by German Saxon merchants to protect their trading routes. It's one of the best-preserved medieval citadels in Europe and once you see the Clock Tower you'll understand why.

One of the best things to do in Romania is to get lost on a walking tour of the cobbled streets in Sighisoara Citadel. Oh, I forgot to mention: in these medieval houses people still live! My favorite time to visit this place is during winter in Romania when the cold air, snow-covered streets and few tourists create a magical medieval atmosphere.

Besides the many photos you'll take, make sure to check the seven figurines of the Clock Tower the main attraction in Sighisoara Citadel, which represent the days of the week - but who are those figurines? Go with a guide, there is much history to learn here :)

Conveniently located in the heart of Transylvania, we have day trips that will take you on a guided tour to Sighisoara from every city.

12. Try traditional Romanian food & tasty vegetables

When people think of things to do in Romania they tend to think of castles (and vampires), communist architecture and... who knows what else! While the typical tourist attractions are undeniably awesome, what most travelers don’t know about is just how tasty Romanian food is. Why?

Bucharest Street Food Tour: Farmers' Markets & Hidden Streets

Start from: University Square

Because Romanian cuisine is a unique mix - a reflection of our agrarian roots and self-sustainable households at the intersection of Turkish/Balkan, Austro-Hungarian and Russian influences. Our traditional dishes have surprising, delicious flavours reminiscent of grandma's comfort food.

• Pro tip: if you're a vegetarian or vegan - you're in luck! Thanks to the long Orthodox Lent (fasting) periods which some Romanians strictly observe, there are lots of recipes without meat or any animal products. just ask for mancare de post or religious fasting foods and you'll enjoy filling, nutritious and delicious recipes!

Romanian local food (especially outside major cities) is wildly appreciated by Western visitors who've had enough of processed and tasteless industrialised food. They are delighted by the delicious taste of simple, organic ingredients (a label that doesn't exist in the countryside!) like eggs, milk, veggies, honey or meat from household animals. Hand-to-mouth farming is widely practiced in traditional regions such as Transylvania, Maramures or Apuseni.

In simpler terms - if you want to know the real taste of an unsprinkled tomato or let your kids discover the flavours of freshly picked veggies or fruits from a farmer's garden - come to Romania!

Food & Wine Tours

Authentic Romanian dishes you should try include sarmale, mici and ciorba (sour vegetable broth), mamaliga (polenta) with shepherd's cheese and sour cream, or stuffed peppers. That is if our appetizers (vegan-friendly) such as eggplant salad, zacusca or baked beans paste won't already fill you up! And then you get to ciorba a vegetable sour broth, with or without meat, that's so filling and will warm you up on the inside!

And, like all agrarian people, there's a variety of cheese (white/fresh, aged or smoked), cured meats and sausages to discover, usually served with seasonal veggies! And leave room for desert: papanasi, sweet cheese pies or homemade sweet bread (cozonac) filled with nuts, poppy seeds or Turkish delight.

We've got food tours in all major cities where our guides will take you to farmer's markets where, besides the cultural shock, you'll also get to try authentic Romanian food. And if you're looking to experience more of Romanian cuisine - go in the countryside! Few restaurants in the cities can compete with that!

Our mission is to support responsible tourism in Romania and that's why most our trips include home-cooked meals which is, for me, arguably the most interesting thing I want to experience when visiting a country besides typical tourist sightseeing.

And to top it off -- since 2010 specialty coffee culture and consumption boomed in Romania. Check our list with the best coffee shops in Romania so you finish your meal in style - like Romanians do!

One of the more unusual things to do in Romania is to visit a cemetery with a happy and funny view on death: the Sapanta Merry Cemetery is like an open-air museum in the village of Săpânța, Maramures region. Unlike the usual sombre and grey cemeteries, the Merry Cemetery is filled with colorful tombstones where the story of the deceased is told in a humorous way - with life lessons that will make you think!

• Pro tip: the stories are written in Romanian so without a local guide to translate there's really no point in visiting

Started in the 1960s the Merry Cemetery is a unique tourist attraction in Romania and Europe for its unorthodox approach despite being located in one of the most religious regions of Romania.

For context: on Sundays people in Maramures wear their best folk costumes to attend service in their UNESCO wooden churches.

There’s an interesting reason this 'happy' cemetery exits. And if you visit with our guide , a native of Maramures, he'll tell you what that is and also take you to the local artisan who makes these crosses. Though the merry cemetery is an interesting place for tourists to visit in Romania, don't forget that, well - you’re in a cemetery! - so be respectful of the dead.

40 minutes South of Cluj-Napoca in the city of Turda is one the most popular and interesting tourist attractions in Romania: Salina Turda as the locals call it, a salt mine dating from Roman times that now houses an insane, unexpected amusement park! So this day trip is one of the many things to do in Cluj you should put on your list!

In this huge underground complex you'll discover impressive caverns and corridors carved in salt where carefully-placed lighting installations create a magical feeling! In addition to its famed Ferris wheel, this underground amusement park has a bowling alley, a mini golf course and even an underground lake where you enjoy a unique boat trip... underground! So this is a perfect place to visit on a family holiday in Romania .

Turda Salt Mine Tours

If this wasn’t enough to convince you to visit Turda Salt Mine, you should know that breathing salty air is good for your lungs and prescribed as treatment for people with any kind of respiratory issues. So spending 3 hours in this popular place will be one of the best things to do in Romania for your health!

Bonus: go on a boat trip in the underground like, a unique thing to do in Romania and in the world!

When travelers start searching for places to visit in Romania, images of the Palace of Parliament in Bucharest inevitably show up. This national monument was the most ambitious and infamous megalomanic dream of communist leader Nicolae Ceaușescu - that's why it's commonly referred to as Ceaușescu’s Palace or House of People.

An entire neighbourhood was razed and huge human, material and financial sacrifices were made over the course of 6 years in the 1980s to make space for it. And Romanians are still divided on the value and importance of this most famous attraction...

The building houses Romania’s democratically elected Parliament. With over 1,000 rooms, 4,500 chandeliers and 12 stories high - only the US Pentagon building has a larger on-the-ground footprint than the Palace of Parliament! And the inside is beyond impressive. Undoubtedly this is one of Romania's most famous tourist attraction, so it's a must see even if only from the outside.

Tours inside are led by official staff but they'll only tell you facts about the building - nothing about the communist regime or Ceausescu. So read our blog about communist Romania if you want to find out more historical facts, communist attractions to visit (e.g. Palace Square where the 1989 revolution started!) or go on our dedicated communist tour to get the 'real deal:'

Complete Bucharest Communism Tour: Palace of Parliament & Ceausescu's Home

Or visit this unique time-bubble communist apartment to feel what it was like to live in communist Romania:

Museum of Communism: A Time-Capsule of Ordinary Lives

And in case you're wondering is Bucharest worth visiting? the short answer is - YES. For the long one - read our city guide on the many things to do in Bucharest and decide for yourself.

The capital of Romania is by far the largest city and is worth visiting even if only to see go for a short walk in the city centre, for example in University Square and then on Calea Victoriei Boulevard to see some of the most beautiful buildings in Romania such as the Romanian Athenaeum. You can also visit the Village Museum - one of the best Romanian museums - in case you don't have enough time to go in the country.

The ultimate sightseeing – and driving – experience in Romania is a road trip on Transfăgărășan Highway - I know, a mouthful to pronounce! :)

3 hours drive from Bucharest or 1h30 from Sibiu or Brasov, this 150 km scenic road crossing Fagaras Mountains was built during communist years for military purposes using approx. 6,000 tons of dynamite - and much, much effort.

Transfagarasan highway is one of the main tourist places to visit in Romania thanks to an episode of the popular BBC show Top Gear when Jeremy Clarkson named it the best road in the world! Driving enthusiasts will absolutely adore the many twists and turns of this incredible drive - even if someone else is driving! - and everyone will enjoy the jaw-dropping sights of Fagaras Mts. the wildest and tallest in Romania!

Transfagarasan Road Tours

The road ends at the glacial Balea Lake reaching 2,200m altitudes and offers breathtaking views of Transylvania’s plains in the far distance - in contrast with the nearby peaks over 2,500m altitude. This is also the starting point for many hiking routes into Fagaras Mts. so it tends to get very crowded. Keep in mind the road is open for driving only from 1 July - 30 October. Outside this period it can be visited only coming from Sibiu or Brasov and taking a cable car over it - if weather permits - to the glacial lake Balea.

• Local tip: less famous but equally spectacular are Transalpina and Transbucegi roads - two other high-altitude driving roads that offer more than just a driving experience!

17. Go out in Bucharest's Old Town

Another unique thing to do in Romania is to experience Bucharest's diverse and intense nightlife. The trendiest area with today's youth is (ironically!) the Old Town area in the city center.

On Lipscani Street you will see both locals and tourists hopping from bar to bar since there are over 50 in the area. Stag and bachelorette groups from all over Europe come here to party for good reason: Romanians love going out!

But even if you're not a big fan of clubbing - there are many beautiful restaurants, hip bars and cosy wine bars in Bucharest. And during Summer months most of them turn into beautiful urban gardens! And you'll probably go out for dinner anyway - so why not go for drinks after in a different place? You'll see Romanian local life at its best!

Bucharest Nightlife Tour: Craft Beer & Hip Bars

Pub Crawling & Bar Hopping in Bucharest Old Town

Start from: Lipscani street

If the Old Town is for everyone and tourists - for a luxury clubbing head to the Northern part of Bucharest. In clubs such as Fratelli, Gaia or on the shores of Herestrau Lake, you’d better dress well to not feel out of place. Local tip: the real Bucharest nightlife starts after 11-12 pm - read our post on places to go out in Bucharest to find out more!

• Pro tip: during Summer months Bucharest's nightlife scene moves to the Black Sea resorts ! In Mamaia beach resort you'll find the posh clubs by the beach while in the hippie resort of Vama Veche people go just to party all day, night and weekend long!

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The Sphinx is a mysterious natural rock formation located high up in Bucegi Mountains . It's accessible via cable car from the small town of Busteni or on our hiking tours.

Local legends claim the rock represents a god who was worshiped long ago by our ancestors the Dacians before the Romans conquered these lands. There are also stories that link the rock to aliens! In any case, many believe the location possesses a special energy and so there are always lots visitors to this unique attraction in Romania's mountains.

The Romanian Sphinx is also the subject of folklore and conspiracy theories that make it incredibly intriguing. So, if you are into paranormal activity or just want to see what all the fuss is about - this popular tourist attraction should be on your list of things to do in Romania!

Nearby are also the Babele rock formations and on a 4h hike (one way) you can reach Omu Peak the 7th highest in Romania at 2,505m altitude.

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You haven’t experienced authentic Romanian culture until you spend a couple of days in the countryside, a real life village museum. You'll disconnect from civilisation, slow down and reconnect with living in tune with nature's rhythm.

Villagers in some areas have preserved their ancestral way of life, customs and values - which is why the Romanian village represents the heart of our culture.

Believe it or not, life in the small traditional village is one of the things Romania is so famous for - even if it's not your typical popular tourist destination. It's not 'a place to go' - it's something to experience! It's why King Charles owns 3 restored village houses Viscri, Breb and Valea Zalanului. Going into traditional regions such as Transylvania, Maramures and Bucovina, or in the mountains in Apuseni (close to Cluj-Napoca), in Marginimea Sibiului (close to Sibiu) or the mountain villages of Magura, Pestera and Sirnea (in Brasov county) is a favorite holiday activity for locals. And it should be for you as well!

Day Trip: Village Life in Sibiu Countryside

Start from: Sibiu

2 Day Hiking in Apuseni Natural Park: Culture & Local Life

Start from: Cluj-Napoca or Sibiu

Some small villages in these areas are true time-capsule even if you have all the modern amenities: shepherds will greet you, roosters and cows will wake you up, and public transport is reduced to horse drawn carts with locals are happy to give you a ride. All this against a backdrop of fortified churches...

Fresh vegetables and fruits from people's gardens and 'in-house' animal products will create simple, delicious meals. And - best of all – this is the perfect place for you to slow down, relax and enjoy a quiet, peaceful life with beautiful scenery.

2-days of Agro-Tourism in Transylvania at a Local Farm

Start from: Cobor or Brasov

Day Trip to Traditional Mountain Villages: Magura & Pestera

Rural regions of Romania may look poor or underdeveloped from the outside but that's part of their charm and - to your surprise - you'll see locals are much happier, welcoming and authentic than city folks. Untouched by consumerism or the business of our modern, tech-heavy society, their way of life is the purest example of resourcefulness and enjoying the simple pleasures of life.

Local folklore, crafts and traditions handed down from one generation to another are well preserved especially in the regions of Maramures and Bucovina. If you're looking for authentic Romanian culture these are the best places to visit for this, especially around Easter or Christmas in Romania .

However, once again, there's no tourism infrastructure for non-locals: few people speak English, no public transport, cash is king and without a local guide with connections in local villages, it's harder to experience the beauty of these place. It's like going into the mountains of Morocco to see berber tribes, the remote villages or Vietnam or in the Amazonian jungles without a guide...

That's why we support inclusive tourism in Romania by including local services, meals and visits in our trips, so local communities benefit too while you have an authentic Romanian experience.

Let’s close the list with one of the most unique places to visit in Romania: Hoia Baciu forest near Cluj-Napoca. The forest was named after a shepherd and his entire flock of sheep went missing without an explanation! In 1968 the forest gained even more popularity when a military technician claimed he saw a UFO flying over the forest. And there are plenty of other stories and myths in local folklore which our guide knows.

A Night Tour of Haunted Hoia Baciu Forest

Start from: Cluj - Napoca

What also makes this place unique is the unusual shape of trees and weird natural layout you don't normally see in a forest. One of the strangest spots is a clearing, a perfectly round-shaped patch of land in the middle of the forest (!) where not a single ounce of vegetation grows - without any human intervention! Many locals are truly afraid to go into the forest and some have said voices and sounds can be heard at night. Hence the ‘haunted forest of Romania’ title.

To be honest the first time I heard about this "tourist attraction" I was skeptical. Until I went on a tour in the haunted forest of Romania with a "show me what you've got!" attitude with our guide who is truly passionate about this unique attraction in Romania.

It was unlike any other night-walk I've ever been on, with an eerie feeling to it. Besides hearing the stories about the Hoia Baciu forest and seeing trees like nowhere else, our guide will also give you special measurement equipment for paranormal activity - so you'll see for yourself! Whether you’re superstitious or not - this is definitely one of the most unique things to do in Romania!

Not too far from Peleș Castle is the lesser-known Cantacuzino Castle . It belonged to Prince George Cantacuzino considered to be the richest person in Romania in the late 19th century and part of a famous political dynasty.

He built Cantacuzino Castle in the unique Romanian architectural style known as Brancovenesc (or Wallachian Reinassance for connaisseurs). The castle has now become an international sensation thanks to another Hollywood hit: it was featured in the popular Netflix series Wednesday directed by Tim Burton.

Corvin Castle, also known as Hunyadi Castle, stands as a striking example of Gothic-Renaissance architecture in South-Western Transylvania.

It belonged to John Hunyade, a military ruler of Transylvania and father of the king of Hungary whose statue you can admire in the city of Cluj-Napoca.

Corvin Castle is one of Europe's largest castles and best preserved, with a history filled with mysterious legends. Besides it being stunning, I think it's better than its famous rival from Brasov county, Bran Castle.

Corvin (Hunyadi) Castle Tours

Visitors can explore the impressive structure and learn about its transformation from a military fortress to a noble residence. The castle's rich history, coupled with its stunning architecture, many rooms, tall columns and defense towers, makes it a must-visit attraction in Romania.

Perhaps lesser known among so many medieval castles, Poenari Castle is still famous thanks to its real connection with Vlad Tepes.

Perched atop a cliff on the road leading to Transfagarasan Highway, it offers a rich glimpse into Romania's medieval history. It was the stronghold of Vlad the Impaler which is why it's called the real Dracula's Castle.

The ruins of Poenari Castle offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes if you're ready to climb the 1480 steps there!

Whoa, that’s a long list!

And even if we haven’t mentioned other tourist attractions in Romania (like or , the Mud Volcanoes , Dacian Ruins ) or great things to do for outdoor adventure fans: (rock-climbing, local craft workshops, caving, MTB or via ferrata).

I think this should be enough to get you started with planning your trip to Romania.

On our website you'll find lots of resources, articles and tours and if you need help with your itinerary send us a message – happy to help!

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Local insights from Romania

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15 Unique Attractions in Romania

Romania’s valuable heritage, culture, and tourist attractions, most of which are unique in Europe and even the world, rarely get the attention they deserve. From the northernmost subtropical forest on the planet to the deepest underground attraction and the best preserved of Europe’s deltas, here’s what you can expect to find in this beautiful Southeastern European country brimming with castles, folk tales, and pristine nature.

Berca Mud Volcanoes, Buzau

Situated in Berca, a small village in the Buzau county of Romania, the Mud Volcanoes (Vulcanii Noroiosi) are a pretty spectacular sight, one that resembles a moon-like surface. This phenomenon occurs due to the underground eruptions of gases, and thanks to its peculiarity and the unique plant species found here, the area is now a protected botanical and geological reservation.

Sighisoara, Transylvania

You wouldn’t expect the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, also known as Dracula, to be a fairytale come to life. But that’s exactly what it is – an impossibly pretty huddle of narrow cobbled streets, colorful houses, and mighty watchtowers. Surrounded by fortified walls, its postcard-perfect medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site bursting with gorgeous Gothic and Saxon architecture. Sighisoara is the only inhabited citadel of its kind in Europe and one of the best-preserved fortified medieval towns you’ll ever see.

The Rock Sculpture of Decebalus, Orsova

At 55 m high and 25 m wide, the statue of Decebalus near the town of Orsova is the largest rock sculpture in Europe. Carved into a rocky outcrop overlooking the Danube, the monument depicts the last king of Dacia and it took 10 years to complete. The huge statue can only be reached by boat, but for those interested in admiring it from afar, there’s a small parking lot along the road where you can stop and take in the views.

Letea Forest, Danube Delta

Tucked amidst the sand dunes between the Danube branches of Chilia and Sulina, Letea Forest is not only Romania’s oldest nature reserve, but also the northernmost subtropical forest in the world. It is a magical place where wild horses roam freely and where century-old oak trees stand side by side with swinging lianas, orchids, and water lilies.

Voronet Monastery, Bucovina

Part of the UNESCO-listed Painted Monasteries of Bucovina, the Voronet Monastery is one of the most treasured religious monuments in Romania. Also known as the “Sistine Chapel of the East”, this 15th-century architectural jewel stands out for the unique shade of blue featured in its marvelous frescoes. The monastery is situated near the town of Gura Humorului, in Suceava County.

The Sphinx, Bucegi Mountains

Perched at an altitude of 2.216 m, in the Bucegi Natural Park (Southern Carpathians), the Romanian Sphinx is a natural rock formation similar to the Great Sphinx of Giza. The megalith’s peculiar shape is the result of wind erosion, though there are many mysteries surrounding it. The Sphinx sits on a plateau with breathtaking mountain views and can be reached by cable car from Busteni, a small alpine town in Prahova Valley.

Merry Cemetery, Sapanta

If you thought cemeteries were cold, creepy places, think again. Romania is home to what could be the happiest cemetery in the world. Situated in Sapanta, a village of 1,500 inhabitants in Maramures, Cimitirul Vesel (Merry Cemetery) is teeming with colorful gravestones decorated with good-humored images and poems that satirize the life of those buried there.

Danube Delta

A UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site, the Danube Delta is home to over 300 species of birds, 160 species of fish, and the greatest expanse of reed beds in the world. This paradise for wildlife lovers is also the best-preserved delta in Europe, and its 23 natural ecosystems include everything, from marshes and floating reed islets to lakes, forests, and sandy areas. The variety of fauna and flora is unique on the continent and makes the Danube Delta a wonderful destination for eco-tourism.

Wooden Churches of Maramures

Thanks to its bucolic scenery, timeless traditions, and nearly 100 wooden churches sprinkled around, visiting this picturesque corner of Romania is like stepping back in time. Eight of the Wooden Churches of Maramures have been included in the list of World Heritage Sites by UNESCO , who describe them as “outstanding examples of vernacular religious wooden architecture resulting from the interchange of Orthodox religious traditions with Gothic influences in a specific vernacular interpretation of timber construction traditions, showing a high level of artistic maturity and craft skills”.

Living Fires, Lopatari

Locally known as Focul Viu, the living fire of Lopatari is a rare phenomenon caused by the emission of natural gas through cracks in the surface crust. The area where these 30-50 cm-high flames are burning for thousands of years has been declared a geological reservation and is located about 60 km from the city of Buzau.

Salina Turda, Cluj

A salt mine transformed into an underground amusement park, Salina Turda is one of the most amazing and unique attractions in Romania. Dating back to the Middle Ages, the mine is one of the oldest in the world and houses a panoramic wheel, a boating lake, a sports arena, a bowling lane, and a museum. Additionally, visitors can play mini golf, enjoy a spa treatment, or admire the 1000-year-old stalagmites and spectacular light displays that decorate the interiors, all at 400ft underground. Salina Turda is situated near Cluj, Transylvania, and is the world’s deepest underground attraction.

Groapa Ruginoasa (The Rusty Pit), Bihor

Situated in the Apuseni Natural Park, in the Bihor county of Romania, the Groapa Ruginoasa is a geological nature reserve covering an area of 20 hectares. The huge, reddish ravine stands out for its otherworldly scenery, a result of the erosion of streams in the area.

Mocanita, Maramures

One of the most authentic and fascinating experiences one can have in Romania is a steam train ride with Mocanita on the last forestry railway still in use in Europe. The journey starts in Viseu de Sus, Maramures and takes you past vast, untouched pastures, rushing rivers, and wild mountain forests. And yes, it really is as idyllic as it sounds, especially when your steam-powered locomotive runs at a speed of 10 km/h, allowing you to soak up the outstanding natural beauty along the way.

Sarmizegetusa Regia, Hunedoara

Sarmizegetusa Regia is a Dacian fortress in the Orastie Mountains, near the city of Hunedoara. Dating back to the 1st century BC, the archaeological site – once the capital of the Dacian Kingdom – consists of 3 main components: the fortress, the sacred area, and the civilian quarter. These well-preserved remains are beautifully located on top of a 1200-meter-high mountain plateau and showcase some exceptional military and religious architectural techniques, which has led UNESCO to declare them a World Heritage Site.

Movile Cave, Mangalia

Romania boasts many unusual places, and the Movile Cave ( pestera Movile ) is definitely one of these. The story began in 1986 when a group of Romanian researchers discovered the cave in Mangalia, a town near the Black Sea Coast. After a more detailed study, they observed that the cave was inhabited by some unusual organisms.

The real reason why Movile Cave has shocked the entire scientific world was in fact the weird ecosystem found inside. Several animal species, of which 33 were completely new, have been found in this absolutely independent bionetwork.

According to scientists, this is the first ecosystem on Earth whose life is based on chemosynthesis (life without oxygen), a procedure that was supposed to be possible only on Mars, Europa, and other planets, but never on Earth.

Among the creatures found inside the Movile Cave, there were two pseudo scorpions, a 10 cm millipede whose bite is venomous and extremely dangerous, a very unusual water scorpion, four spiders, and a new species of leech. All the underground residents are characterized by a pale color, a total lack of vision, and giant antennas used to move in the dark.

It is believed that these living fossils have survived for millions of years, their refuge in the Movile Cave beginning to take place during the Ice Age.

Larry Lemke, a prominent researcher at NASA whose main preoccupation is to investigate the existence of life on Mars, has compared Movile Cave’s living conditions with those on Mars.

Moreover, the Romanian cave has also inspired the production of “The Cave (2005)”, directed by Bruce Hunt.

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Get to know the hidden Romania: 40 places you should not miss

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By Irina Popescu

Check out the map below to see the counties of Romania where these places can be found.

1. Living Fires in Lopatari, Buzau County

The Living Fires (Focurile Vii in Romanian) can be found in the Romanian village of Lopatari, Buzau County, in Slanicului Valley, 56 km away from Buzau city. Living Fires can be as high as 20 cm and represent a natural phenomenon unique in Europe. They are blue flames burning in places where the soil is cracked and kept alive because of the gas that comes to surface.

2. Muddy Volcanoes, Buzau County

You might have recently heard about this one, but it is not as well known as it would deserve. The Muddy Volcanoes are located in Buzau County, in Paclele area, in the village of Berca. The Muddy Volcanoes are miniature craters which are formed because of the natural gas that comes from a depth of more than 3000 m. It lies on about 30 hectares and is a unique phenomenon in Romania, also rare in the world.

3. Ochiul Beiului Lake, Caras- Severin County

Ochiul Beiului Lake, with water that has a green-blue color, is in the village of Sasca Montana, in Caras-Severin County. From Bucharest, the lake can be reached easily by following the route Bucharest - Pitesti - Slatina - Craiova - Filiasi - Drobeta Turnu Severin - Orsova - Moldova Noua - Sasca Montana, with a length of 509 km. What's interesting about this place is that the lake’s water doesn't freeze even at extremely low temperatures during winter, because of the spring that feeds permanently the lake with water.

4. Ruins of Roman Porolissum, Salaj County

One of the best preserved archaeological sites in Romania is called Porolissum, an old Roman city. Besides its impressive size, the site also had has a good conservation during the centuries. Castrul Roman Porolissum can be found in Salaj County, in Mirsid.

5. Vidra Lake, Valcea County

The Vidra Lake is a men-made lake, dating from 1972. The lake is 30 km away from Voineasa resort in Valcea County, between Lotrului, Latoritei rivers and Capatanii Mountains. This place can offer some really great moments to those who love nature, through its silence, fresh air and great green forests that are surrounding the lake.

6. The Church under the lake, Cluj County

Although hidden from human eyes most of the time, the Church under the lake from Belis, in Cluj county, comes out during the hot, low-rainfall summers. Belis is a village in Transylvania, at an altitude of 1,000 m, in Gilau Mountains. Only in the days of hot summer the old ruins of the church, dating from the nineteenth century, come out of the water. Equally impressive are the paintings that decorate the ruins, embodying angels and biblical scenes.

7. The Bears' Cave – Ursilor cave, Bihor County

Known as one of the most spectacular sights of the Romanian Apuseni Mountains, the Bears' Cave is located near Chiscau, in Bihor County, at an altitude of 482 meters. The cave's name comes from the many cave bear fossils discovered there, as this place was a favorable place of shelter for animals around 15,000 years ago. There are around 547 km between Bucharest and the Bears' Cave, a distance that can be covered by car in about 7 hours.

8. The Merry Cemetery, Maramures County

The Romanian village of Sapanta, in Maramures County, became famous for its Merry Cemetery that has become a very important tourist attraction. The cemetery's name comes from the colorful crosses and the satirical poetry that is written on them. After the cross is carved, it is usually painted in blue, the so-called "Blue Sapanta". The distance between Bucharest and Sapanta is about 600 km.

9. Comana Natural Park, Ilfov County

Comana Natural Park, 35 km away from Bucharest, is unique in Europe, and includes dozens of species of plants and animals protected by the international laws, being considered the second Delta of Romania, after the Danube Delta. The natural park covers 25,000 hectares, being the largest protected area in the Romanian Plain (Campia Romana).

10. The steam train in Viseul de Sus, Vaserului defile (Mocanita), Maramures County

Vaserului Gorge, with the appearance of a canyon, is located in the eastern part of the Maramures Mountains. Tourists can travel through the entire gorge using one of the few steam trains in Romania, "Mocanita de la Viseul de Sus", that departs daily from Viseul de Sus village, reaching Novat, Faina and even Macarlau. The distance between Viseul de Sus and Bucharest is 523 km.

11. Red Lake (Lacul Rosu), Harghita County

The Red Lake is a natural lake that was created when half of a mountain fell. It is situated in Hasmasu Mare Mountains, near the town of Gheorgheni, Harghita County, 323 km away from Bucharest. This is the largest natural mountain lake in Romania. Its name came from the Red River, that crossing red layers, with iron oxides and hydroxides. The lake appears dark and threatening. The trees that were swallowed by the water, which now appear on the surface give the impression of strange and mysterious.

12. Neamtului Fortress, Neamt County

You might have heard of the Neamtului Fortress once or twice before, as it has been recently renovated and might have had more promotion lately. It is a medieval citadel situated in Moldova, near the town of Targu Neamt, at about 46 km from the city of Piatra Neamt, and 398 km from Bucharest. Located near the highest point of the Plesului Peak, the city is part of the medieval monuments with an exceptional value in Romania. Read more about it here (in Romanian).

13. Fagaras Fortress, Brasov County

Fagaras Fortress is the most imposing monument in the region, in Fagaras city, Brasov County, at about 235 km from Bucharest. It is one of the largest and best preserved in the whole country, and even in Europe. Fagaras Fortress appeared for the first time in official documents in 1455, but its construction has started since the late fourteenth century. T

14. The living stones, Costesti, Valcea County (Pietrele Vii)

Near the road linking Targu Jiu with Ramnicu Valcea, in the Costesti village, nature has created some of the most amazing stone carvings called "the living stones". With bizarre shapes, millimeter, or man-sized, the stones continue to emerge as people exploit the sand. These works of nature are some stones with supernatural origins, as locals say. The “living stones” are also called “the stones that grow”. This strange stones can be found at about 130 km from Bucharest.

15. Cave Churches in Buzau - Chilia lui Dionisie Torcătorul, Buzaului Mountains, Buzau County

Nucu village in Buzau County is an old place, full of mystery. Who dares to walk on the mountain roads has the opportunity to meet the most important cave complex in Buzau Mountains. Caves, cells and churches carved in stone during the first centuries of Christianity, were used as places of refuge and worship. One of the cells belonged to the monk Dionisie, who, the legend says, made the road to his cell as complicated as possible, because he liked to be alone.

16. Hunedoara Fortress, Hunedoara County

Hunedoara Fortress, also called Corvinilor Castle, is the most important monument of Gothic architecture in Transilvania, Romania. The monument in Hunedoara is representative for the military architecture in South-East Europe, from the fifteenth century. Other elements that make Hunedoara Fortress unique are further intervention made in the fifteenth century, which offers a mixture of unique architectural elements belonging to the Renaissance, Baroque and Gothic styles. The distance between Bucharest and Hunedoara is of about 390 km.

17. Cetatuita Negru Voda Monastery, Arges County

Cetatuia Negru Voda Monastery is located at 880 meters altitude, between Chiliilor Valley, Coman Valley and the water of Dambovita, 25 km south of Campulung city. The monastery is located in a natural cave, where a small, beautiful fountain can be found. To go there from Bucharest, you have to drive for 153 km.

18. Turda Salt Mine, Cluj County

The Salt Mine in Turda, that can be found in the city of Turda, Cluj County, is a veritable history museum of salt mining. The excellent state of preservation of mining and machinery used to transport salt, together with the cautious work carried out for preparing the mine, turned the Turda Salt Mine into a tourist attraction. To get to Turda, you have to go 410 km from Bucharest.

19. Tihuta Clough

Tihuta Clough, located 473 km away from Bucharest, has a high degree of difficulty in terms of crossing it, as it is crossed by one of the toughest roads located in the mountains in Europe. Access to the Tihuta Clough is made through the E576 (DN17), the road linking the cities of Suceava and Bistrita. The landscape in the area looks like untouched by man, which makes it an ideal place for relaxation. Too see live images from the Tihuta Clough, go here .

20. The Seven Stairs Canyon & the Tamina Cascade, Brasov County

The Seven Stairs Canyon's route is accessible to all nature lovers and represents a good alternative for a day out. The canyon is in the central-west side of Piatra Mare Mountains, at an average altitude of 980 meters. The first so-called 'step' of the cascade, from the bottom up, has a height of 8 meters, followed by another 6 such steps, most of them being over 35 meters high. The Seven Stairs Canyon is at about 165 km from the capital city.

21. The Racos basalt columns and the extinct volcano, Brasov County

Racos is a village far away from the main road linking Brasov to Sighisoara, the village where you can see a volcano that didn’t erupt in hundreds of years. Once you arrive in this place, you have the feeling that you are on Mars, because of the red landscape. The geological site from Racos includes spectacular post eruption scenery of 10-15 meters high, formed by the rapid cooling of lava. There are around 250 km from Bucharest until Racos village.

22. Cacica salt mine, Suceava County

Cacica Salt Mine is located in the village of Cacica, in Suceava County, 450 km from Bucharest, and is unique through its 8,200 hand-dug galleries, without machines. The galleries are in a very good condition today. At 192 steps down to 27 meters deep is the St. Varvara Roman Catholic Chapel, while at 35 meters deep, there is an Othodox Chapel. There is also a Salt Lake, an artificial lake dug manually by miners.

23. Fairies' Fortress, Covasna County

The Fairies' Fortress is an ancient Dacian fortress situated on a mountain peak near the city of Covasna. Walls found by archaeologists during excavations are currently visible. The road to the fortress takes about 2 hours on some unmarked forest roads. Research conducted there revealed numerous fragments of pottery and coins dating from the Dacian and Roman age. The distance from Bucharest to the city of Covasna is 227 km.

24. The Sinca Veche Rupestral Monastery in Brasov County

The Sinca Veche Monastery, actually an underground temple, is situated next to Plesu Hills, in the Romanian Sinca Veche village in Brasov County, 220 km from Bucharest. It is said that the monastery was built thousands of years ago, in the Dacian times or even before. The monastery is cut entirely in stone and has 2 altars and 9 rooms filled with curious statues, like the Yin-Yang symbol or the David’s star. The tower is made out of soft sandstone and has no roof, which allows the sun to shine on the altar.

25. Piramids from Sona in Fagaras, Brasov County

The Pyramids from Sona are actually eight mounds of earth, 30 meters high, that seem to come out of nowhere. While locals are convinced that they were raised by giants, historians believe that there are graves of Celtic barbarians. The legend says that many years ago, this land was ruled by a princess named Sona. One day her kingdom was attacked by some giants who came over the Fagaras mountains. The giants have gone through the water of Olt river, and when they arrived in this place they shook the mud from their feet and created these mounds. You can find them in Sona village, Brasov County, 250 km away from Bucharest.

26. Gura Portitei in the Danube Delta, Tulcea County

To get to Gura Portitei, you have to drive almost 300 km on the road from Bucharest to Jurilovca, further having to take a passenger ship or a motorboat to cross the Golovita waters. Gura Portitei is a perfect place for those who enjoy peace, fresh air, crystal clear water, and open space. There is also a wide range of recreation facilities, from daily trips on the Danube channels to renting rowboats, motorboats, hydro bikes, ski jets, tennis and volley grounds.

27. Polovragi Cave in Gorj County

Polovragi Cave is 11 km long, and has 800 m with electric light since 1984. The water that drops continually from cave’s ceiling forms stalactites and stalagmites, but also clay so you have to watch your steps. Hazard and time created bizarre limestone formations which received poetic names: Lotus, The Throne of Zalmoxis, The Monk. Between Bucharest and the Polovragi Cave there is a distance of 243 km.

28. Bicaz Canyon, Neamt & Harghita Counties

The Bicaz Canyon, (Cheile Bicazului in Romanian), is one of the most spectacular places in Romania, located in the north-east part of the country, in Neamt and Harghita counties, 372 km from Bucharest. The canyon was dug by the waters of Bicaz River and it serves as a passageway between the Romanian provinces of Moldova and Transylvania. The road along the 8 kilometers of ravines, often in serpentines with rock on one side and a sheer drop on the other, is one of the most spectacular drives in the country.

29. Scarisoara Cave – the glacier, Alba County

Situated in the Apuseni Mountains, almost 40 km away from the town of Campeni, in the North-Western part of Alba County, in the village of Garda de Sus, Scarisoara Cave is one of the largest ice caves in Romania. Declared a natural monument and a speleological reservation, the cave is famous for its glacier that is older than 3,000 years. To get there from Bucharest, you have to drive around 480 km.

30. Petresti Fortress, Alba County

The Petresti Fortress, built by Saxons is a historical fortress, where the Saxons throughout Romania return to celebrate their past in Alba Iulia. It is located out of Petresti village, next to the Sebes river, at around 350 km from Bucharest. From the old fortress, the wall and the ruins of the bell tower are still standing.

31. Grohot Natural Bridge, Hunedoara County

The Grohot Bridge can be appreciated by its greatness as one of the most spectacular karst phenomena in the Apuseni Mountains. This is very interesting in its morphological features, through the beautiful landscape, and the great vegetation. The distance between Bucharest and this place is about 490 km.

32. God’s Bridge, Baia de Arama in Mehedinti County

Ponoarele is a village located in Mehedinţi County, Oltenia, Romania, at about 335 km from Bucharest. Here one can find a natural monument named God's Bridge, a natural bridge formed when the ceiling of a cave had collapsed. The bridge is actually a 4 m thick rock arch, with an opening of 25 m and a length of 50 meters. The legend says that the Devil lived in Ponoarele Cave. The locals asked God to chase him, and God hit with His palm the cave ceiling, which collapsed and blocked the cave's entrance. But the Devil escaped by the other mouth of the cave and climbed the Devil's Rock, a place from where he guards the people who enter in the cave and sometimes he drowns them in the Zatonul Mare lake.

33. Jiu, Mures, Cris and Olt Valleys – for rafting

If you like rafting, you have to try that on the most spectacular rafting area in Romania, Jiului Valley, between the city of Livezeni and Bumbesti Jiu. The route is about 25-30 km, and optional, by request, you can make rafting at night, and a picnic in nature. To get there from Bucharest you have to do around 350 km. Rafting can also be done on Mures, Cris and Olt valleys.

34. Stone Ravens Monastery, Arges County

The Corbii De Piatra (The Stone Ravens) monastery is a Romanian monastery located in the Jgheaburi village, in Arges county, in the heart of a mysterious and very ancient ascetic Romanian settlement. The monastery's church is carved into the rock, and appears in documents with this name from its reestablishment in 1512. Find more about it here: http://www.corbiidepiatra.ro/

35. Transalpina road, Gorj, Valcea, Sibiu & Alba Counties

Also called the "King's Road", Transalpina is the road that connects Oltenia region and Transylvania. It is the highest altitude road in Romania that can be crossed from one end to another by car. It’s not yet sure why this road was build but the local legend says it was built by the German people during World War I, just for military purposes. Transalpina can be covered in about 3-4 hours on the trail Sebes, Sugag, Obarsia Lotrului, Ranca, Novaci.

36. Ciucas Waterfall in Cluj County

Located about 55 km from Cluj Napoca, Ciucas Waterfall is one of the most important tourist attractions of Cluj County. Ciucas Waterfall has a height of only 5 meters, and behind it lies a small lake where the water accumulates. The distance between this place and Bucharest is about 500 km.

37. Capra Lake, Fagaras Mountains, Brasov County

Well hidden in the heart of Fagaras Mountains, Capra Lake, a glacial lake, is situated at an altitude of 2,241 meters. The lake impresses with its blue water and makes a great place for those who love nature and mountains, through its landscape. To get there from Bucharest, you have to drive around 250 km, a trip that will take about 3 hours.

38. Fortified Church in Viscri , Brasov County

The Fortified Church in Viscri is one of the representative buildings in Brasov. Built in a Gothic style, it is located 7 km from Dacia village, Brasov County, and about 240 km away from the capital city. Beside the church, which is a real fortress, a unique collection exhibited at the ethnographic museum can be seen here. It presents the objects truly representative for people's everyday life, traditions and customs in the area.

39. The Siriu Dam, Buzau County

The Siriu Dam opens in front of visitors as a boundless expanse of water. Siriu Lake is a man-made lake, located on the upper part of Buzaului river. Siriu Dam is a great destination for fishermen, who can find trout here. The Siriu village is located in the North-East part of the Buzau County, at about 164 km from Bucharest.

40. Bats' Cave, Brasov County

Also known as the Cave with Bats, the Great Cave, the Bats' Cave is the home for rare species of bats. The cave also has a great historical significance for people, giving the name of the village, Pestera village (in Romanian 'Cave village'). Situated at an altitude of 950 meters, on the Bran platform in Pestera village, the cave is reported in various documents since centuries ago. To get there from Bucharest, you have to drive for around 180 km.

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22 Remarkable And Unique Things To Do In Romania

Romania is such a large and diverse country with so many different things to see and do, that no list would actually do it proper justice. Therefore we have selected only the most remarkable and unique things you can do to make your visit to Romania truly unforgettable.

1. Go Hiking In The Breathtaking Carpathian Mountains

With an incredible diversity in scenery, hiking is a real treat in Romania and the Carpathian Mountains offer a large number of trailes from short and easy to longer and more challenging routes for the more adventurous hikers. The mountains are also the home of a wide variety of animal species, so it’s also great for wildlife spotting.

2. Visit The Fortified Churches Of Transylvania

Romania has a total of nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites and part of this list are seven villages with fortified churches in Transylvania . Biertan , Câlnic , Dârjiu, Prejmer, Saschiz, Valea Viilor , and Viscri each have a fortified church that was built by the Transylvanian Saxons during the Middle Ages. The area was part of the Kingdom of Hungary, but the ongoing threat from Ottoman invasions called for the need to fortify each settlement. In total there are over 150 of those fortifications, but only 7 of them made it to the UNESCO list.

3. Take A Drive Over The Transfăgărășan – The Best Road In The World

When you look at this road from above, you might rather think of a rollercoaster ride, but the Transfăgărășan has actually been named the best road in the world by the famous Brittish tv show Top Gear. In fact it is the second highest paved road in Romania as it crosses through the southern section of the Carpathian Mountains, between the Moldoveanu and Negoiu, the highest peaks in the country. The views are absolutely breathtaking, which is why the road is very popular among visitors and car fanatics. However, the road initially served a military purpose as a quick passthrough of troops in case of a Soviet invasion during the communist dictatorship of Nicolae Ceaușescu.

4. Take A Tour In The Palace Of The Parliament – The Largest Building In Europe

Another piece of heritage from the communist era is the Palace of the Parliament in Bucharest , which was also built by the order of Nicolae Ceaușescu. The enormous palace is the heaviest and most expensive building in the world, and the second largest administrative building after the Pentagon. The building currently housese both the Senate and the Chamber of Deputies, as well as three museums and a conference center. Do we need to say more why you should pay a visit?

5. Watch The Mysterious Living Fires Of Lopătari

In Buzău  you can experience a real natural wonder: the Living Fires of Lopătari . Gases flow to the surface through cracks of the earth’s crust and are ignited by the sun. The constant flow of gas keeps the fires burning eternally, so you can watch the fires also at night, when the phenomenon is most spectacular.

6. Visit Dracula’s Castle – The Most Famous Castle

Bran Castle is definitely one of the most famous and popular attractions in Romania among international travelers, due to its link with Bram Stoker’s novel Dracula. Although the castle was in fact the home of Queen Mary, most people consider the castle and the Walachian ruler Vlad the Impaler as important sources of inspiration for Bram Stoker to develop his main character Dracula. This is why Bran Castle is widely known as ‘Dracula’s Castle’.

7. Visit Peleș Castle – The Most Beautiful Castle

Despite its popularity, there are actually more beautiful castles than Bran Castle, and on top of our list is definitely Peleș Castle . While Bran Castle is medieval and more rough, Peleș Castle is more sophisticated and breathes the royal history of Romania. Located in Sinaia , the castle was built in the 19th century as a summer residence for the royal family and is a real peace of art from both the outside and the inside. The castle has been well preserved and you can visit all three floors where you can still find most of the original furniture and art pieces to get a real impression of the 19th century royal life.

8. Explore The Danube Delta – A World Heritage Site

The Danube Delta is where the second longest river in Europe, after the Volga, mouths into the Black Sea. The total area spans over 4,152 square kilometers, of which 3,446 is in Romania and the other part in Ukraine. It’s not only the scenery of lagoons, islands and waterways that is appealing, but the area also has a very diverse biosphere with 23 different ecosystems. It is the home of many animal species and around 320 species of birds. The area is well-preserved and has been declared a natural World Heritage Site by UNESCO. A visit should be top of your list if you enjoy birdwatching or simply want to enjoy the natural environment on a boat ride.

9. Take A Ride In The Underground Theme Park At The Turda Salt Mine

Salina Turda used to be a salt mine as early as the antiquity and was operational throughout the middle ages and beyond, but has no longer been in use as such for a long time. The mine now calls itself a ‘halotherapy center’ and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Cluj County . You can visit the mines and discover the history of salt mining, but the complex also hosts the deepest underground theme park at 120 meters, including a spa, bowling alley, ferris wheel, and you can swim or take a boat ride.

10. Have A Communist Tour Of Bucharest

The communist era has greatly impacted the modern history of Romania, which is still visible today. To learn more about communist Romania, you can take a guided communist tour of Bucharest . While visiting important landmarks and sights, like the Palace of the Parliament and Ceaușescu’s house , you will hear more about the communist past and how the leaders transformed Bucharest, and how the communist regime fell during the 1989 revolution.

11. Have A Lough At The Merry Cemetery Of Săpânţa

Loughing at a cemetary? Yes, you heard that right! The Merry Cemetery proves that you don’t always have to be in a graveyard mood when grieving for the death. In line with the local Dacian culture, at the remotely located Merry Cemetery colorful paintings and dark humor can be found on gravestones. The cultural philosophy is that death is not something indelibly solemn, but rather a moment of joy as one expects a better life for the immortal soul. The unusual place has made Săpânța village famous and the Merry Cemetery a popular open-air museum.

12. Stay At The Hotel Of Ice

Have you ever dreamed about sleeping in an iglo? Then you don’t have to go all the way to the north pole, as you can just book a night in the Hotel of Ice in the Făgăraș Mountains of Transylvania . Every year the hotel is rebuilt with a new design by local craftsmen, using bricks of ice from the nearby Balea Lake. The Hotel of Ice also has a restaurant and a magical church made of ice. The hotel stands at an altitude of 2,000 meters above sea level and can only be reached by a cable car.

13. Enjoy The Nightlife Of Bucharest’s Old Town

For the best nightlife, head to the Old Town of Bucharest , where you’ll find streets full of bars, restaurants and nightclubs. It’s the most vibrant area with both locals and tourists hopping around from bar to bar. Romanians love to dress up and go out in style, so even if you don’t like partying or clubbing it’s worth strolling around the Old Town at night to absorbe the vibe. The area is also where you can find some of the best traditional restaurants and taste some of the best local craft beers and wines.

14. Visit The Berca Mud Volcanoes

The Berca Mud Volcanoes are a natural and geological phenomenon in Buzău County , about 2.5 hours outside Bucharest . Gases erupt from 3,000 meters deep through layers of clay and water, pushing up salty water and mud towards the surface. Bubbles pop up when the gas emerges and the mud dries up, creating the volcano-shaped structures of a few meters high. The mud and salty soil make vegetation around the volcanoes scarce and cause a strange and unique lunar landscape.

15. Visit A Vineyard For A Wine Tasting

Although many people don’t know, Romania is actually among the largest wine producing countries in the world. During communism wine production focused more on quantity than quality, which didn’t help Romania’s reputation when it comes to wine exports. A transition back to private hands and a growing know-how has considerably changed wine-making since the 2000s, and the entrance of Romania to the EU has also attracted more investments into modernizing the production facilities and a higher quality standard.

So if you love a glass of wine, you should definitely have a taste of some of the quality wines available. And what better way to do this than by visiting a vineyard or going on a wine tour?

16. Visit The Painted Churches Of Bucovina

In Suceava County in the historic Bucovina region, there are 8 churches that together form one of the Romanian UNESCO World Heritage Sites . These orthodox churches were built in the 15th and 16th centuries and have earned their UNESCO listing for their unique style and unique external fresco paintings that refer to different religious themes.

17. Go Underground In The Scărișoara Ice Cave

The Scărișoara Ice Cave is the world’s largest underground glacier and has been named one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Romania. The ice cave was formed 3,500 years ago and is located at an altitude of 1,150 meters above sea level in the Apuseni Mountains. Inside the cave you can see several rooms, over 100 stalagmites, and a frozen pool.

18. Go Back Memory Lane On A Steam Train Ride

Train enthusiast will be very happy in Romania as there are many beautiful tracks, but in the end nothing beats a ride on a real historic steam train. There are still a few steam train rides left in Romania, but the most famous one is the Mocăniță of Vișeu de Sus , in Maramureș County . The last forestry narrow gauge steam railway in Europe takes you on a 2-hour ride through the forests of the Vaser Valley and into the Carpathian Mountains. An unforgettable experience you can’t find anywhere else!

19. Indulge Yourself With Traditional Romanian Cuisine

Romanian cuisine has historically been strongly influenced by other countries like Turkey, Hungary and other Balkan countries, but most dishes have been strongly modified by using local herbs and spices. This has made the traditional Romanian food into a delicious blend of its own and any trip should include a taste of the mostly harty and comforting dishes.

Also read: 15 Traditional Romanian Foods To Try

20. Climb The Stairs Of The Seven Ladder Canyon

In the Piatra Mare Mountains, close to Brașov , a canyon has been carved in Jurassic limestone. A beautiful hike through the canyon will bring you along 7 waterfalls, with the tallest being around 35 meters high. The total trail takes approximately 2.5 hours to complete, with several metal stairs and platforms leading you along beautiful view points.

21. Visit The Volcanic Crater Lake Of Saint Ann

The mud volcanoes are not the only volcanic heritage you can find in Romania. In Harghita County in the Eastern Carpathians, you can find the extinct Ciomatu Mare volcano. Its crater has filled up with water and now forms Lake Saint Ann , the only crater lake in Romania. The purity of the water is extremely high, since its only supply is from precipitation. In the winter, the lake is covered with a thick layer of ice.

22. Watch Brown Bears In Europe’s Last Wilderness Reserve

Romania is definitely one of the best countries for wildlife watching as it has many vast and wild areas which are home to a wide variety of wildlife species. The animals can roam around freely in their natural habitat, which is why Romania is called Europe’s last wilderness reserve. The Capathian Mountains host around 6,000 brown bears, the largest population in Europe.

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THE 10 BEST Hidden Gem Activities in Romania

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• Sala Floreasca
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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Libearty Bear Sanctuary Zarnesti

2. Salina Turda

Recommended Hidden Gems (393)

3. Ceaușescu Mansion

4. Art & Crafts

5. Danube Delta

6. Cheile Turzii

7. Barsana Monastery

8. Merry Cemetery

9. Pivnita lui Teo - Teo's Cellar

10. Peasant Fortified Church at Prejmer

11. Viscri Fortified Church

12. Bicaz Canyon

13. Wooden Churches of Maramures

14. Biertan Fortified Church

15. Vulcanii Noroiosi (Muddy Volcanoes)

16. Autocross Arena

17. Snagov Monastery

18. Horses Waterfall

19. Madc - Muzeul Amintirilor Din Comunism

20. Captive Escape Room

21. Muzeul Consumatorului Comunist

22. Obscuria Escape Rooms

23. Escape Arena

24. National Museum of Old Maps and Books (Muzeul Național al Hărților și Cărții Vechi)

25. Retezat Mountains

26. Fortress of Ponor

27. Racos Volcano

28. Rapa Rosie

29. Abel's Wine Bar

30. Muzeul International al Oualor Lucia Condrea

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14 Hidden Gems In Bucharest + Quirky & Unusual Places

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Romania’s capital didn’t initially blow me away hence I decided to dig a little deeper and suss out the hidden gems in Bucharest.

I’d been really excited to arrive in Bucharest after 2 weeks in Romania . I loved this charming and sleepy Transylvania where the attractions were obvious. So far I hadn’t needed to search for hidden places in Romania. After so many small towns, I was excited for the hustle and bustle of a big city. Unfortunately, it wasn’t quite what I hoped for. The streets of the Old Town were tightly packed with touristy restaurants and sleazy bars. I just couldn’t find the charming or quirky corners present in so many other European cities.

Read next: all my Romania travel tips

BRASOV ESSENTIALS Accommodation: Booking.com / Hostelworld Tours & activities in Brasov: GetYourGuide Getting there: car hire ( Rentalcars.com ) / train ( CRF Calatori ) / bus ( Autogari ) / car pool ( BlaBlaCar ) Getting around: bus / tram Book an airport to city transfer

Bucharest hidden gems

As I pounded the pavements in search of more unusual places in Bucharest, I found a bit more to love about the city. It won’t ever be my favourite capital but that’s okay. We don’t have to fall in love with everywhere we go. If you’re visiting and feeling the same as I did, I hope this blog post helps you find quirky places in Bucharest and enhances your trip. Enjoy!

Want to explore the Bucharest hidden gems with a guide? Take this 3-hour guided walking tour with an expert .

1. Cărturești Carusel

Cărturești Carusel is a charming bookstore voted the 6th most beautiful in the world by Pan Macmillan . I now have a new bucket list goal: visiting them all!

The recent influx of visitors to Cărturești Carusel means it’s not necessarily a Romanian hidden gem. But there’s no denying it’s a gorgeous location to add your bucket list.

For the ultimate me-time, wander the floors of Cărturești Carusel and dip into books on all range of topics. If you’re a photographer, you’re going to particularly like this elegant spot.

2. Cărturești Verona

If you liked Cărturești Carusel, why not take a trip to another hidden gem in Bucharest? Cărturești Verona is even quieter and more peaceful nestled away behind the Graffiti Walls Gallery (more about this later). The interior of Cărturești Verona isn’t instantly as Instagrammable as Cărturești Carusel but I enjoyed wandering this book store, browsing quirky titles and vintage old vinyl records. Plenty of the books in both stores are in English.

3. Pasajul Victori ( Umbrella Street Bucharest)

If you’re searching for cool places in Bucharest, it won’t take you long to hear about Umbrella Street! Pasajul Victori is the most photogenic Bucharest hidden gem. There are so many of these umbrella streets around the world these days and I love seeking them out. But I can’t lie, this wasn’t my favourite. Pasajul Victori is a relatively dingy alley and I preferred the more open and sunny umbrella street I found in Timisoara earlier in my Romania trip. Still, if you have some spare time in Bucharest, this place is worth a visit.

4. Graffiti Walls Gallery

If there’s street art in town, you can bet your bottom dollar that I’ll find it. I didn’t have Bucharest on my radar as a city with awesome street art but how wrong I was. I found this unusual place in Bucharest by accident while walking to Cărturești Verona. This street art is so colourful and vibrant showcasing some Romanian wildlife and weirdly, a unicorn. Well, why not? Locate Graffiti Walls Gallery here .

Suggested activity: Lonely Planet street art tour

5. Sky views at Pura Vida Sky Bar

A sky bar as a Bucharest hidden gem? Unlike glitzy rooftop bars around the world, Pura Vida is hidden away above the main streets. Grab a cocktail and perch on a colourful bar stool to watch sunset. Visit on a weeknight (or better yet the afternoon when the locals are at work) for a hidden gem feel at this quirky little bar.

6. Little Armenia

While exploring the Bucharest hidden gems with a local tour guide, I learnt a lot about Romania’s history and ethnic communities. The Armenian diaspora resides around the area known as Little Armenia. To see the people at worship and learn a little about their religion, head to the Armenian Church of Bucharest . This 100-year-old Orthodox church has some gorgeous artwork as well as a small library where documents about the Armenian population are kept.

7. Hidden mansions

Bucharest is a city with a troubled past. While the city centre has been restored in recent decades, the same can’t be said for the backstreets. Is this a bad thing from a tourist perspective? I’d say not. One of the most unusual things to do in Bucharest is wandering the sunny streets of the outer city and spotting dilapidated mansions retaining their original, crumbling details. I can’t believe savvy millionaires haven’t snapped up these beautiful abandoned buildings. Maybe they will soon. For now, explore the backstreets and try to imagine them in their heydey.

8. Biserica Olari din București

If you’re visiting the Armenian area, pay a visit to this small but decadent Orthodox church. With gold as far as the eye could see and elegant chandeliers and religious paintings, it’s quite spectacular. Note – this is a practising church so be respectful of the community while visiting. Stay quiet in the church and take a few photos without flashing around your camera.

9. Bazaar (flea market)

Another of the Bucharest hidden gems I found purely by wandering aimlessly (the best way to wander) was this quirky market inside an old building. The market sells jewellery, antiques, books and trinkets. Whether you’re in the business of buying or simply killing time in the capital, the market is open from 10am daily. Find it at Strada Covaci 10, București 030096, Romania .

10. Obar Market

The biggest market in Bucharest is also the most local. Don’t expect ready-to-eat street food (although you can get some excellent mici sausages and beers in the opposite courtyard) but do expect colourful produce and bustling l ocal life. With two floors to wander, this Bucharest hidden gem is known mainly by the locals. Why not pick up some fresh cheese, bread and fruit and have a picnic?

Visit Obar with a guide on a Bucharest street food tour

11. Dianei 4 restaurant

This leafy cafe garden doesn’t look like much from the outside but it’s a quirky hidden location in Bucharest, once used a secret police headquarters during the communist era. Now, it’s visited by artistic young Romanians who know a thing or two about good food and coffee. We tucked into a peasant’s platter with chunky bread, cheese, pickles and salami. I also got to try zacuscă , aubergine and tomato spread known as one of the best Romanian foods to try. Escape the Old Town’s burger restaurants and visit Dianei 4 instead!

12. Therme Bucharest

If you tell people you went to a hot spa in Bucharest they will definitely think you’ve mixed up Budapest and Bucharest as Michael Jackson once famously did on his tour. But it’s true! To escape the busy city centre of Bucharest, head out of town to Therme , an enormous wellness centre with thermal indoor and outdoor pools. You could easily spend a whole day relaxing in the warm mineral pools. Entrance to this hidden gem in Romania starts from 49 RON, just €10!

13. Hipster coffee shops

While there are lots of (pretty touristy) cafes and restaurants serving traditional Romanian fare in the Old Town, there are also some quirky coffee shops popping up. You might not have Romania down as a place for speciality coffee roasting and indeed, many of the traditional towns in Transylvania don’t really have this scene. But in Bucharest, there are lots of excellent coffee shops opening, many in repurposed old buildings. My favourite coffee shop in Bucharest was Coftale with friendly baristas and speciality coffee brewing equipment.

14. One to maybe miss – The English Passage

Before visiting Bucharest, I heard about the English Passage, a small alley connecting Calea Victoriei and Strada Academiei. It was built by a Viennese architect on the spot that would later become the English Hotel . I decided to stroll down the hidden alley to see what it was all about. However, it wasn’t much to shout about and smelt like someone had recently used it as a toilet. This one is a pass from me!

I hope you enjoy these Bucharest hidden gems!

Check out my other Romania blogs:

• The ultimate Timisoara travel guide
• How to visit Bran Castle from Brasov
• 2 days in Brasov: a complete itinerary
• The ultimate road trip Romania itinerary
• 18 Romania travel tips

See you next time for more adventures,

For more travel content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

Ps. Liked these unusual places in Bucharest ? Pin this for later!

TRUSTED RESOURCES FOR VISITING ROMANIA Getting around by air – I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Driving in Europe – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals in European countries (and all around the world). For trains , use CRF Calatori to search times and book tickets. For buses , book at Autogari . To catch buses in and out of Romania (from Bucharest and Timisoara), I use FlixBus . Find journeys between European countries from €1!  For hotels and self-catering apartments, I use Booking.com . You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse tours and activities on GetYourGuide . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and budget tips from my 10+ years on the road!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

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52 Fun & Unusual Things to do in Bucharest, Romania

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Bucharest, the capital of Romania, has something of a complicated reputation. After years of political upheaval – not to mention association with a certain vampire -, some may wonder what to expect when visiting the area.

But the country’s capital is bursting with excitement, beauty, and mystery, and is fast becoming one of the trendy destinations in Eastern Europe.

From its origins as a summer home for royalty, the city has blossomed into a haven for arts and culture, particularly renowned for its beautiful buildings. But it also offers more contemporary attractions as well, including amusement parks, interactive tours, and an active nightlife scene.

So whether you want to go medieval or modern, you’ll find plenty of awesome things to do in Bucharest !

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• Bucharest tours

1 – Stroll the streets of Lipscani (Old Town)

Ornate churches, literary offerings… and ghosts? You must be in Lipscani!

Bucharest’s old town area is a hotbed of history and culture, just as it has been since the 1500s. With so many excellent sites to see – not to mention some cool themed excursions -, you could easily spend an entire trip just roaming around the area!

Indulge in the rich literary atmosphere of the city with a trip to Carturesti Carusel , a magnificent bookstore whose gorgeous interiors are filled with more than 10,000 works to browse through.

Geography nerds will love circling Kilometer Zero, a marker that designates the distance between Bucharest and all of the other cities in the country. If monuments are more your style, check out the magnificent statues of scholars, artists, and royalty that grace University Square, a renowned public meeting place for locals and tourists alike.

Feeling artsy? Check out the programs at ARCUB , a lively theater that hosts everything from dance and music performances to traditional plays. And those seeking to learn more about the city’s royal roots will love Old Princely Court (aka Curtea Veche), a spectacular palace that was commissioned by Vlad the Impaler.

This is also the perfect area to see some of the city’s gorgeous traditional churches, including New St. George Church, Stavropoleos Church and Stavropoleos Monastery, The Choral Temple and Biserica Zlătari. Biserica Sfântul Anton, the oldest church in town, is particularly striking, with a marvelous stone exterior and fascinating museum inside.

And if you’re looking for something a little spookier, head out on a ghost tour ! These excursions showcase the eerier side of the city’s history, guiding you through major landmarks and hidden gems alike.

Along the way, you may see haunted schools, mysterious houses, and even a park used for witchcraft rituals, all while enjoying thrilling, chilling stories of demons, ghosts and vampires, among many more fantastic creatures!

If you’re a little skittish, never fear – there are plenty of general walking tours in this area as well, which offer tons of information and cool sights… minus the ghouls!

• walking tours in Bucharest

2 – Explore the decadence of the Palace of Parliament

Situated right in the midst of town, Bucharest’s Palace of Parliament is a fascinating piece of political history. The structure itself is quite impressive; in fact, it’s the largest building in Europe!

Originally commissioned by dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu, this imposing marble residence features a ballroom, hundreds of chandeliers, and even a fully functional nuclear bunker!

Although the building is certainly a monument to the lavish excess of the Ceaușescu era, it’s also an excellent example of the country’s remarkable evolution in the post-Communist era.

While you’re in the area, take some time to visit the adjacent Piața Constituției, the largest square in town, which is especially renowned for its lively Christmas market.

• Palace of Parliament tickets and tours

3 – Consider the canvases at the Art museums

With its vibrant cultural scene, the capital of Romania is the perfect place to check out some high-quality art. Luckily, there are several museums around town that cater to the aficionado and the casual visitor alike.

The Romanian National Museum of Art (MNAR), which sits inside the Royal Palace of Bucharest, is an ideal first stop. Along with a magnificent collection of works by the nation’s finest artists (as well as masters from all over Europe and Asia), it lies directly in front of Calea Victoriei, a major thoroughfare that passes by several other renowned tourist attractions.

Meanwhile, the Museum of Art Collections features an impressive assortment of works from across the 19th and 20th centuries, showcasing everything from portraits and sculptures to antique rugs and tapestries.

And at Muzeul Național de Artă Contemporană al României (MNAC), you can browse through the works of the mid 20th and early 21st centuries, and see how they reflect the evolving sensibilities of the era.

For a fantastic collection of Romanian works with a particular focus on modernism, check out the Zambaccian Art Museum, which features pieces by such luminaries as Oscar Han, Nicolae Tonitza, and Corneliu Baba.

It’s also well worth swinging by the Muzeul de Artă Recentă , which, true to its name, is filled with avant-garde works that showcase 50 years of cultural and stylistic progress.

After seeing all of these amazing movements and mediums, you may even feel creatively inspired yourself!

4 – Admire fossils and butterflies at the Grigore Antipa National Museum of Natural History

After seeing all of the artistic works, take in some of the beauties of the natural variety at Grigore Antipa National Museum of Natural History!

This spectacular assortment of over 2 million specimens – including fossils, gems, and taxidermied creatures – is a must for science fans, offering great views into billions of years of evolution from all over the world.

Admire the reconstructed skeleton of a wooly mammoth, learn about the nuances of the Black Sea, and view the striking colors and patterns of the specimens in the butterfly collection.

Don’t miss the Romanian section downstairs, which showcases the amazing flora and fauna unique to the region. As you take in these spectacular displays of the world around us, you’ll soon see why many consider this to be one of the finest natural history museums in Europe!

• Grigore Antipa Museum tickets

5 – Enjoy a performance at the Romanian Athenaeum

With its remarkable columns and stately dome, the Romanian Athenaeum is an impressive monument to fine music.

This magnificent building was originally constructed in 1888, and it continues to host a wide variety of classical music events, including the George Enescu Festival, which celebrates the legacy of the famed Romanian composer and musician.

It’s also home to the splendid George Enescu Philharmonic Orchestra , which carries on both the composer’s name and his tradition of excellence.

Stop by to enjoy some of their remarkable performances, and to admire the interiors of this fabulous building. Keep an eye out for the massive ceiling fresco depicting significant moments in the country’s history!

6 – Visit with vampires at Bran Castle (day trip)

Ok, time to acknowledge the elephant in the room… or the vampire!

Yes, the main character in Dracula was inspired by (and named after) Vlad the Impaler, the famous Romanian monarch rumored to drink the blood of his enemies. And you can tour the real-life version of the fictional count’s spooky residence with a day trip to Bran Castle!

Also known as Dracula’s Castle, this decadent estate is located in the heart of Transylvania , four hours north of the capital.

Explore the ins and outs of this stunning Gothic residence, and learn how it served as the physical inspiration for the legendary vampire’s fortress – even though the book’s author, Bram Stoker, never actually saw it in person!

Some tours of the Dracula Castle also include stops at the various natural and cultural gems that are scattered throughout the region.

Discover the ancient architecture and previous defensive barriers of the medieval town of Brasov , or enjoy the fantastic German Renaissance trappings of the gorgeous Peles Castle , the mountainous summer residence of monarchs past.

After leaving the city of Brasov, you’ll get to visit a different breed of locals at the Libearty Bear Sanctuary , home to a group of rescued brown bears enjoying a new lease on life.

You may also stop by Sinaia Monastery , a 17th-century gem that still houses an active order of Christian Orthodox monks. And for a somewhat wilder adventure, check out some of the awesome jeep tours in Transylvania !

Hop into your dirt-covered chariot for some off-roading excitement, exploring the mountainous vistas and charming villages of this wild realm. It’s a whole new way to see this iconic landscape… just watch out for the bloodsuckers!

• Dracula’s Castle tours from Bucharest

7 – Amble through Cișmigiu Gardens

Back in town, take some time to explore the peaceful environs of Cismigiu Gardens, one of the area’s most beloved green spaces. Check out a spectacular display of more than 30,000 native plant species, as well as some remarkable specimens that were shipped over from Viennese collections.

Then check out the monuments to French and American soldiers that perished in Romania during the two world wars, as well as some remarkable statues commemorating prominent national writers and activists.

Be sure to save some time for Lake Cișmigiu, a splendid artificial lake that offers entertainment in every season, from skating in the winter to rowing in the summer. It’s the ideal place to spend a tranquil afternoon!

• city tours in Bucharest

8 – See new sides of town on some bike tours

Bike tours aren’t just good for your legs – they’re also tons of fun!

Whether you want to spend a couple of hours cruising through the highlights of town, or take half a day and pedal past monuments and smaller neighborhoods, there’s something for every level of cyclist to indulge in.

It’s also an especially good way to take in the city’s fascinating Communist history, including the sites of revolutionary actions and the many opulent buildings in the city from the Ceausescu era.

If you’re feeling ambitious, you can even head a little further out of town to sample some regional delicacies during a guided tour of the Dealu Mare wine country. Grab a helmet and get rolling!

• bike tours in Bucharest

9 – Check out the many exhibits at Bucharest Municipality Museum

While there are tons of excellent cultural options in the city, the museum scene is particularly renowned.

And there are few better places to explore that world than at the Bucharest Municipality Museum , a remarkable complex of twelve different institutions with nearly 400,000 artifacts on display.

At the Municipal Pinacotheque Gallery, you can admire 5,500 modernist pieces spanning a whole range of disciplines, including graphic art, drawings, and sculpted pieces.

Or check out the luxurious trappings of the Theodor Aman Museum, a former private mansion built in 1868 that still maintains the antique furniture, murals, and stained glass works that made it a fixture of high society in its heyday.

The George Severeanu Museum is another great place to check out some historical interior decoration, along with an amazing assortment of items from the Byzantine, Celtic, snd Ancient Roman and Greek eras.

The Frederic and Cecilia Cuțescu-Storck Art Museum showcases a particularly personal set of pieces, featuring the paintings, sculptures, and sketches of the supremely talented Storck family.

And at the Filipescu-Cesianu House, you can immerse yourself in three centuries of local history, from clothing and furniture to exterior designs, all showcased in a beautiful mid-1800s residence that once belonged to local aristocrats.

If you’re looking for something more scientific, don’t miss the Astronomical Observatory Amiral Vasile Urseanu , which boasts a beautiful planetarium and a professional-grade telescope for unparalleled views of the stars.

A trip through these wonders is definitely one of the most fascinating things to do in Bucharest!

10 – Admire Arcul de Triumf

Much like its iconic counterpart in Paris, Bucharest’s Arcul de Triumf is a monument to perseverance and military victory.

This 89-foot tall structure was first built in 1878 to celebrate Romania’s newfound independence as a country. While the original was somewhat hastily created from wood, it has since undergone quite the makeover, rebuilt masterfully with granite.

It continues to serve as a historical landmark; if you happen to be in town at the beginning of December, you might even see military parades passing by to mark the anniversary of liberation. It may have a famous twin, but this fascinating structure is a marvel of its own!

11 – Take a day trip to Mogosoaia Palace

Some dads give their kids toys as gifts… and some give them castles! Palatul Mogoșoaia (Mogosoaia Palace) was first built in 1702 by Prince Constantin Brancoveanu as a present for his son, and served as a longtime retreat for royals.

During your guided tour, you can learn all about its many centuries as a meeting place for the political elite and, later, members of the Communist regime. While you’re there, take a stroll through the Museum of Brancoveanu Art, which is currently housed inside the palace.

Some excursions also include trips to the Snagov Monastery , a 14th-century gem that sits on an island in Snagov Lake and is said to be the burial spot of Vlad the Impaler.

• Mogosoaia Palace tours from Bucharest

12 – Eat up on a food tour

Goat’s milk cheese, beers, meats, and good old-fashioned junky treats…. there’s nothing like a good food tour!

The bustling capital is filled with places to sample traditional dishes and regional snacks, along with some of the finest beers and wines in the area. If you’re feeling particularly decadent, you can even book an “Unhealthy food tour!”

This fun-filled excursion dives into the history and culture of the city, while giving you the chance to try everything from pastries, meat rolls, and even a classic local snack of pretzels and yogurt. It’s one of the most delicious ways to get to know the town.

• food tours in Bucharest

13 – Wander through the centuries at the National Museum of Romanian History

As you step into the splendid halls of the National Museum of Romanian History , you’ll almost immediately start feeling the scope of the past. The building that houses it, once known as the Palace of the Posts, is a marvel of late 19th century architecture in and of itself.

And the exhibitions themselves are equally spectacular; they include historical documents dating back to the Middle Ages and an impressive replica of Trajan’s Column, an iconic piece from Ancient Rome.

Don’t miss the artistic artifacts on display, from pottery and textiles to antique clocks and costumes. It’s the perfect place to indulge your nerdy side and explore the trappings of the country’s long, creative, and fascinating history.

14 – See the wonders of Transfagarasan Road on a day trip

When you’re ready to get away from it all, join a tour group and hit the road – the Transfagarasan Road, that is! This gorgeous route winds its way through the gorgeous Fagaras Mountains, stopping along the way to explore some charming local villages, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

You can also visit stunning cultural gems such as Poenari Castle, a mountain fortress that once housed Vlad the Impaler, and the stunning Curtea de Arges Monastery, a 16th-century gem known for its unique Byzantine designs and status as a final resting place for much of the country’s monarchy.

Every curve and bend of this famously twisty road is well worth it for those spectacular views – and the drive is just part of the adventure!

• Transfagarasan Road tours from Bucharest

15 – Visit the plants at Bucharest Botanical Garden

Since 1860, the Bucharest Botanical Garden has been a haven for plants of all types – not to mention the people that like to admire them! Enjoy a leisurely stroll through a paradise of fruit trees, flowers, and shrubs, as well as a fantastic collection of greenhouses.

While you’re there, be sure to stop by the Botanical Museum to admire over 1,000 varieties of plants from all over the world.

Just a short walk away, you can check out the spectacular Cotroceni National Museum, which is housed in a former palace, and contains plenty of art and artifacts from previous royal regimes.

You might even catch a glimpse of the Romanian president out for a stroll! And if you’re looking for even more plants to enjoy, check out, there’s another lovely botanical garden at Drumul Taberei Park, which also features playgrounds, sporting facilities, and a scenic lake.

Check out Cotroceni National Museum tickets and tours to learn more!

16 – Peek into the past at the Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum

If you like hands-on engagement with bygone eras, then you’ll love exploring the lodgings at Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum .

This recreated village allows visitors to explore what life was like for Romanians in the 17th-20th centuries, exploring windmills, traditional rural churches, and replicas of barns and simple family homes.

After you’ve explored these fascinating dwellings, take some time to explore the other beautiful nearby attractions in King Mihai I Park, also known as Herastrau Park. This 462-acre slice of paradise is beloved by the locals, and once you stroll around its grounds, you’ll soon see why!

Along with the village, it’s home to an aquarium, an outdoor adventure park, and statues commemorating notable Hungarian writers and artists such as George Cosbuc, Mihai Eminescu, and Nicolae Grigorescu.

There’s also a gorgeous Japanese garden, where you can amble under acacias, cherry blossoms, and other spectacular specimens from the Land of the Rising Sun. There’s also plenty to see at Herăstrău Lake, where you can rent a rowboat or pedal boat and enjoy a relaxing day on the water.

You’ll understand why a trip to this park is one of the most beloved things to do in Bucharest!

• Village Museum tours

17 – See a little bit of everything at Carol I Park

Another fantastic public space in the city is Carol I Park, a remarkable set of gardens that also features little tastes of Rome, Communist Romania, and even 19th century laboratories!

Head over to the Roman Arenas to catch the latest concerts and theatrical performances in a gorgeous open-air setting.

Or pay your respects at the Monument of the Nation’s Heroes, a spectacular mausoleum crowned by a red and black granite tower, which features tributes to heroes of World Wars and national revolutions.

Then stop by the Professor Engineer Dimitrie Leonida Technical Museum to check out over 6500 fascinating bits of Romanian technology, including a steam engine dating all the way back to 1888!

There’s no shortage of fascinating sights to see at Carol Park – and it’s a beautiful space to boot!

18 – Test yourself at the Museum of Senses

It’s always fun to try new things on vacation, but have you ever tried resting on a bed of nails? At the Museum of Senses , you can try this daring endeavor, alongside tons of other cool experiments that test perception, creativity, and the elastic limits of the human body.

From experiments involving sound and touch to illusions that play off of the strange operating system of the human mind, each display offers a novel form of fun.

Gaze at dozens of versions of yourself in the mirror room, create your own unique hologram, and, yes, try reclining on the pointy ends of several thousand nails. In this wildly interactive space, you’re not just a visitor… you’re part of the exhibit!

• Museum of Senses tickets

19 – Visit The Fire Tower

Back when it opened in 1890, the Fire Tower was one of the largest structures in town, with a civic significance to match. As the name suggests, this 138-foot tall structure was originally built to serve as a watchtower for the fire department.

For several decades, it was one of the tallest buildings in town; and while it stopped serving its original purpose in 1935, it still remained a prominent fixture in town, becoming a museum in 1963.

Today, it serves as the local Firefighter’s Museum, where you can learn all about the distinguished history of the city’s rescue teams. With a great combination of informative exhibits and striking architecture, the tower is one of the most underrated things to do in Bucharest.

20 – Celebrate musical history at the George Enescu National Museum

Throughout the first half of the 20th century, George Enescu produced a truly spectacular catalog of work.

The renowned musician and composer – who was already creating and playing works of his own by age 6 – conducted acclaimed orchestras all over the world, and was renowned for his violin work.

You can explore his genius more in-depth at the George Enescu National Museum , which is situated in a splendid Art Nouveau mansion. Browse through an astounding collection of the musician’s awards, papers, and personal instruments, and learn about his impressive legacy as a performer and a creator.

You’ll even be able to see a cast of his hands – a true portrait of an artist’s tools! It’s all a wonderful tribute to one of the country’s most famous musical figures.

21 – Experience the charms of Constanta

With its diverse history and stunning coastal views, the town of Constanta is the perfect destination for a day trip. And you certainly won’t be the first people to visit its shores – in fact, it’s the oldest town in Romania!

Naturally, it boasts a staggering array of relics and historic buildings to enjoy, from ancient Roman and Greek art to an early 20th-century mosque.

Many tours will also include stops in Mamaia, a gorgeous resort town where you can unwind on the beach and enjoy the cooling waters of the Black Sea.

• Constanta tours from Bucharest

22 – Take a Communist tour

The history of Communism in Romania is long and complex, and no trip to Bucharest would be complete without exploring some of its impacts.

When you book a Communist tour, you won’t just get a healthy dose of history – you’ll also gain some powerful context for how the country has shifted in the decades since the regime collapsed.

Explore the diverse designs of the city, and learn all about the political figures that defined the era, including the infamous dictator Ceacsescu.

You’ll also learn about the 1989 revolution and the monumental shifts of the post-Communism era, including Revolution Square, where much of the rebellion took place, and the Memorial of Rebirth, which is dedicated to the rebels that fought for a new era of government.

And don’t miss the House of the Free Press, a towering Soviet-era construction that once housed the regime’s leading political publication, and still serves as a newsroom to this day. It’s all part of a fascinating story that is well worth exploring, even after you return home.

• communist tours in Bucharest

23 – Make the rounds of some other great museums

As you’re exploring the rich cultural life of the capital, be sure to leave time for some of the many fantastic museums in the area! At the National Museum of the Romanian Peasant , you can admire the artwork, clothing, religious items, and household objects from every province of the country.

Or celebrate the country’s rich wordsmithing heritage at the National Museum of Romanian Literature , where you can browse through beautiful archives in the refurbished homes of famed scribes Tudor Arghezi and Anton Pann.

Get dazzled by the more than 80,000 minerals, fossils, and stones on display at the National Geology Museum . Delve into the story of the country’s armed forces at the National Military Museum , which showcases the battles, soldiers, and weaponry from ancient times to the present day.

Or explore through the maps at Muzeul Național al Hărților și Cărții Vechi , which celebrates cartography at every level, from city streets to the movement of the stars. Admire the aircraft at the National Romanian Aviation Museum, including a nice assortment of military planes and helicopters.

Or visit some of their land-based counterparts at the Romanian Railway Museum, which features intricate railroad models right alongside working steam engines. And don’t miss the dynamic vehicles of the Tiriac Collection , which features over 120 years’ worth of classic cars and motorcycles.

You can even dive into the poignant, powerful stories of domestic life under Communism at the Ferestroika Museum , which is filled with personal artifacts from the era… and even traditional treats!

For the history nut, the motorhead and everyone in between, a museum visit is one of the most exciting things to do in Bucharest!

24 – Take some exciting tuk tuk tours

With the air rushing by and the city streets popping up before you, there’s no end to adventure with the local tuk-tuk tours!

These three-wheeled vehicles have long been popular as sightseeing options around the world, and for good reason; they’re fast, fun, and just the right size to navigate nearly any setting with ease.

And that includes this lovely city, where you can putter past landmarks such as Revolution Square and the Palace of the Parliament, or weave through different neighborhoods to get an up-close view of local life.

You can even spring for a romantic couples option that comes complete with a minibar – talk about a festive evening!

• tuk tuk tours in Bucharest

25 – Have some splashy fun at the water parks

When the sun starts to beat down, grab your swimsuits and hit the water parks! With some awesome rides and a relaxed atmosphere, you’ll have a great time splashing around at Bucharest’s three aquatic offerings.

If you’re looking for a kid-friendly option, pop over to Water Park Otopeni , which has everything from splash areas to a lazy river, as well as plenty of sunbeds for the adults.

Or up the thrills at Magic Place Aqua Park , where you can frolic in the swimming pool or race down the slides, all within easy access of beautiful Crângași Park and Lake Dâmbovița.

And don’t skip out on the wonders of Divertiland Water Park , where you can relax on a perfectly cultivated sandy beach after a few rounds in the wave pool. So grab some sunscreen and enjoy the water!

26 – Immerse yourself in nature on the Danube Delta

You may have heard of the “Blue Danube,” but did you know that it’s also part of Europe’s largest wetland system?

The Danube Delta is home to over 45 types of fish and more than 300 species of birds, including pelicans, cormorants, and swans.

Along with some awesome bird watching opportunities, the area is filled with unique villages, including the port city of Tulcea, which has been a stronghold of shipping and commerce since the 7th century B.C.

Take a day to visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site, but be warned: all those gorgeous natural scenes will make you want to linger longer!

• Danube Delta tours from Bucharest

27 – Tour the Ceauşescu Mansion (House of Ceauşescu)

Nicolae Ceausescu was one of the most infamous figures in the country’s history, and you can explore the fascinating story of his rise and fall at the Ceauşescu Mansion, also known as the Spring Palace, Primaverii Palace, and the House of Ceauşescu.

As you wander through the opulent halls of this mid-1960s residence, you’ll catch a glimpse of some truly opulent features, from a private movie theater to a former indoor pool that currently serves as a photo gallery.

It’s a fascinating and somewhat sobering reminder of the misuse of power, and a unique piece of architecture to boot.

• Ceauşescu Mansion tours

28 – Visit the animals of the world at Zoo Bucharest

Wild landscapes are great, but what about wild animals? At Zoo Bucharest , you can visit over 100 species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians from all over the world, as well as an impressive aquarium section.

Admire colorful parrots, gorgeous tigers, psychedelically-patterned frogs, and many other gorgeous creatures, some of which can’t be seen anywhere else in the country. It’s the perfect compliment to the more urbane delights of the city.

29 – Hike (or ride) through the Carpathian Mountains

With their craggy ridges, stunning vistas, and beautiful atmosphere, the Carpathian Mountains are perfect for some outdoor excursions, especially hiking. Take a multi-day trek to see all the wonders that the landscape has to offer, camping and stopping at small villages as you go.

It’s an especially striking area to visit in the winter, when you can explore the mountain in a whole new way with some snowmobile tours . Zoom over the fresh powder, enjoying the crisp air and breathtaking views as you travel through a winter wonderland.

In warmer weather, hop aboard a quad (ATV) , and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the forest as you tackle wooded trails and backroads. Whichever season you visit, you’ll be treated to great adventures and jaw-dropping scenery, courtesy of one of the most pristine pieces of wilderness on the continent.

• hiking in Bucharest

30 – Browse through the best markets

If you’re looking for tasty produce, beautiful decorations, or some unique souvenirs, you can’t do better than the lively markets of the city.

Score the freshest local produce at Amzei Market (along with some unique options like wild mushrooms), or try the traditional foods at Matache Market, also known as Piata Matache.

Search for some unique items – from fresh-squeezed juice to cheap clothing – at the historic Obor Market, which has been a fixture in the city in various forms for three centuries. And if you want to freshen up your stay FIX, swing by Piata de Flori (the Flower Market), which is filled to the brim with beautiful blooms from all over the area.

You can also book some market tours to explore the hidden nooks and crannies of these great shopping spots, and learn about their unique histories – and maybe even find something cool to bring home!

31 – Visit the historic churches and monasteries

Like many European cities, Bucharest has a distinguished religious history, and many of its finest churches and monasteries can still be visited today.

Check out the magnificent mosaics and fabulous frescoes of the Romanian Patriarchal Cathedral, a 17th-century gem devoted to Saints Helena and Constantine which sits atop the small but splendid Dealul Mitropoliei hill.

Or enjoy the magnificent designs of St. Joseph’s Cathedral, with its striking marble altar and fully functional church organ. Visit the gorgeous columns and domes of Saint Spyridon the New Church, which was once an icon of gothic architecture.

Or stop by the small but mighty halls of Kretzulescu Church, a red brick and fresco-bedecked masterpiece that has survived numerous natural disasters and political shifts.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, marvel at Mantuirii Neamului Cathedral (People’s Salvation Cathedral), which will be the tallest Eastern Orthodox church on Earth once construction is completed.

Check out Casin Monastery’s marvelous green domes and marble iconography, as well as some stunning pieces of Murano glass. Or enjoy the Roman Orthodox trappings of Radu Voda Monastery, a hilltop building with wonderfully preserved paintings.

Take some time to admire the gold trappings and spectacular clock tower of Antim Monastery, which was originally built as a refugee shelter. And if you want some more traditional aspects, don’t miss Cernica Monastery, a lovely lakeside retreat that still hosts an active order of monks.

Explore these beautiful relics at your own pace, or visit them as part of some excellent walking tours.

32 – Catch a show at the Bucharest National Opera House

From classics by Mozart and Verdi to more contemporary works by Andrew Lloyd Webber and other renowned figures, the Bucharest National Opera House offers something for every kind of music fan.

This building of the prestigious concert hall is also on the National Register of Historic Monuments, and has hosted some world-class ballets and other musical performances since it opened in 1954.

When you stop by to see a show, you won’t just be enjoying a world-class performance – you’ll also be enjoying one of the most beautiful spaces in town. So take some time to settle in with an opera – or several!

33 – Take a wild, historically-influenced ride with Hot Rod Fun Bucharest

If you’ve always wanted to be in a Fast and Furious movie, now’s your chance!

Slide behind the wheel at Hot Rod Fun Bucharest , and enjoy a thrilling ride around town, with a little bit of retro style thrown in!

These cute little numbers are perfect replicas of the classic cars used in the early days of competitive racing, and they’re well known for their revamped engines that add an extra bit of pep to the driving experience.

Just get some brief instruction, hop behind the wheel, and follow your guide on a zigzagging tour of the city that includes plenty of fun facts about your vehicle as well.

Rev up those wild motors and get going!

34 – Soak and unwind at Therme Bucharest

Amidst all the exciting sightseeing, it’s important to schedule some downtime. And a trip to Therme Bucharest is a great way to relax in style.

As one of the biggest health and wellness centers in Europe, it’s filled with different rooms and treatments to address every aspect of health, from saunas and infra-red treatments to a soothing botanical garden.

Of course, the pools are the main event here; choose between hot and cold options, mineral pools, waterslides, and even the largest wave pool in the country. With dozens of relaxing options and treatments, it’s the perfect place for everybody to kick back!

• spas in Bucharest

35 – Take a spin on some theme park rides

For the youngsters, adrenaline junkies, and general ride fans, there’s nothing like a trip to the theme park. Luckily, the capital has several of them available, all offering their own brand of fun.

Little ones will love exploring Children’s Town Bucharest, a wacky world made just for them, filled with Ferris wheels, train rides, and fantasy realms guarded by dragons. You can also pop over to nearby Children’s World Park, which offers some more relaxed options like playgrounds and some lovely green space.

More adventurous types can try the ropes courses, ziplines, and forested obstacle tracks of Extreme Park Phoenix Cernica , or the bike paths, archery courses, and paintball fields of Edenland Park .

You can also go hurtling through the treetops with some of the finest zip lining in Bucharest , or enjoy a different set of thrills with some scenic horse riding trips!

And if you want a little bit of everything, try the splendid environs of Parcul Tei , which combines standard thrill rides like the tallest rollercoaster in Romania with a relaxed, public park-style atmosphere.

As you’re exploring all of the exciting things to do in Bucharest, be sure to leave time for some themed thrills.

36 – Go underground and explore the Slănic salt mine

Industrial sites don’t always seem like the most exciting places to visit, but as the Slănic salt mine demonstrates, they offer underrated thrills!

In 1938, the area was created to move large amounts of minerals, a process that required digging far into the ground – really far!

400 meters (1,312 feet) below the earth, the vaults and work areas are among the deepest on the continent, forming an unusual environment for your to explore.

As you descend, you’ll be able to enjoy a soothing climate that’s perpetually 54 degrees Fahrenheit (12 degrees Celsius), and you’ll also be able to enjoy the surprisingly epic scenery below, with vast chambers shaped by years of projects.

• Slănic salt mine tickets and tours

37 – See the surreal world of Muddy Volcanoes (day trip)

As if the mountains and forests weren’t cool enough, you can actually see a volcano during your trip! Sort of. As the name suggests, Muddy Volcanoes has plenty of seismic activity going on, with boiling, burbling mud deposits forming an ever-fluctuating landscape.

It’s said that walking through this area is almost like being on the moon… and you won’t even need the spacesuit! As if these features weren’t impressive enough, you can explore the Unirea Salt Mine, a magnificent network of chambers and passageways, which holds the title of the largest salt mine in Europe.

It’ll be a thrilling day of geologic wonders that you won’t soon forget!

• Muddy Volcanoes tours from Bucharest

38 – Enjoy some live theater

Back on the cultural side of things, take a set and prepare to be amazed by the city’s vibrant theater scene. Enjoy world-class works in one of the seven performance spaces at National Theater Bucharest , or enjoy the unique works and backstage tours at Odeon Theater .

Check out contemporary performances at the globally revered Bulandra Teatrul , or drop by the basement dwelling of Apollo111 , which specializes in independent theater. And younger fans will love Țăndărică Animation Theater , a fun-filled and innovative space that specializes in puppet shows.

When the lights go down and the curtain comes up, you’ll be treated to a whole new side of Romanian culture!

39 – Unleash your inner explorer with a scavenger game

If you like a little bit of a treasure hunt with your educational sightseeing, then get yourself involved in some scavenger games. These awesome interactive events are a great way to explore the many amazing things to do in Bucharest, while also making a game out of the process.

Explore the Armenian Quarter, the footsteps of Dracula, the haunted happenings on the city streets, and much more, as you search for landmarks, stories, and other unique clues. You’ll have so much fun playing, you won’t even realize how much you’re learning!

• scavenger games in Bucharest

40 – Spend some quality time in the city’s best parks

The city’s green spaces are beloved parts of daily life, and each of them offers its own unique treats when you visit. Izvor Park, a relatively new attraction, boasts nice riverside sitting areas and amazing views of the Palace of Parliament in Bucharest.

Kiseleff Park is similarly idyllic, with its playground and gorgeous groves of trees. Tineretului Park goes for variety, offering bike paths, sports complexes, and decorative fountains, all set beside a beautiful lake. And Circus Park’s charming meadows are matched only by its impressive collection of aquatic plants.

Alexandru Ioan Cuza Park is another lakeside treasure; in this case, it hugs the shores of Titan Lake, offering trails and relaxing spots alongside boat rentals and play areas.

Swing by Piata Unirii, where you can enjoy all the hustle and bustle of a public square, as well as Fântânile din Piata Unirii, a spectacular nighttime water show featuring flamboyantly lit fountains synchronized to music.

National Park is the place to go to get a feel for the community, with a rotating schedule of fairs and other civic events offering entertainment throughout the year. And at Vacaresti Park Nature Reserve, you can explore the tall grasses and former reservoir from the Communist era, which has since taken on new life as a biodiversity hotspot.

Kick back, feel the grass beneath your toes, and take some time to enjoy the greenery like the locals do!

41 – Play around with some bowling or billiards

When you’re ready for some fun in the great indoors, head out to roll a ball or shoot one – either way, you’re guaranteed a good time!

Trickshot is primarily a bowling alley, but it also offers up some exquisite meals and great drinks to make the whole day an experience

And Max Fun more than lives up to its name, from pool tables and bowling lanes to the bright, inviting games of the arcade, plus a nice watering hole where you can unwind with a few drinks.

Get a little friendly competition in with your travel buddies, or just enjoy the fun and social atmosphere!

42 – Sip and sample on a wine tasting tour

If you want to immerse yourself further in the country’s vibrant culinary scene, consider booking a wine tasting tour.

Romania is actually the 13th-largest producer of wine in the world, so it’s well worth taking some time to sample the delicious local offerings.

Your wine tour may take you to traditional rural villages, elegant vineyards, wine cellar tours and some even include a visit to the first wine bar in the city! Better still, book some cheese tastings , and enjoy the perfect pairing of food and drink, all while surrounded by the lush scenery of the Romanian countryside.

• wine tastings in Bucharest

43 – Catch a football match at National Arena

Football fanatics should make a beeline to the National Arena , an impressive monument to the sport that seats roughly 55,600.

It’s also the home field of both the FC Dinamo and FC Steaua teams, and hosts games for the national team as well. And since any team can rent it out, you’ll always get the chance to see a different aspect of the sport.

There’s nothing quite like the thrill of watching a match in this marvelous space, which has been a city fixture since 2011; so grab a seat and get ready for some excitement!

44 – Try a family-friendly driving adventure at indoor karting Bucharest

Lay on the gas pedal race your heart out – when it comes to the world of indoor karting , everybody can get in on the fun!

And not only are these cars entertaining, but they’re eco-friendly!

Thanks to the electric motors that power them, you can feel good about each lap you take; and with so many curves, dips and turns along the tracks, you’ll want to do second and third rounds!

Test your skills and those of your travel buddies with each thrilling loop!

45 – Enjoy the dazzling glasswork of Macca – Vilacrosse Passage

As soon as you enter the Macca-Vilacrosse Passage, look up… and prepare to be dazzled! To say that this is a mall is accurate, but an understatement; its opulent interiors – based on similar public areas in Paris and London – make it an architectural gem as well.

Stroll under its exquisite glass roofs and multicolored dome, and stop in at some of the many restaurants, cafes, and novelty shops spread throughout the space. Browse through antique items and high-end jewelry, then chow down on Chinese, Egyptian cuisine, or a glass or two of wine.

46 – Feast at the best restaurants in Bucharest

While food tours are great, there’s nothing like a traditional meal to cap off a day on the town. And there’s no shortage of places in Bucharest to stuff your face in style!

Manuc’s Inn offers a delicious traditional menu and an equally historic setting: the oldest hotel in the city!

If you like variety, try the massive selection of tasty salads, meaty entrees, and Romanian standards at Caru’ cu bere , where you can also enjoy traditional brews and live musical performances.

Try unique offerings like calf brain at Zexe , tasty bistro-style selections like duck and shrimp salad at Beca’s , or the phenomenal tea and dessert selections at Bernschutz & Co .

And if you’re still hungry after that, never fear; the funky fusions of Lente & Cafea and avant-garde smoothies and salads of Energiea still await you.

You can even book some traditional dinner tours and be sure to get your fill of the local culture – literally!

• dinners in Bucharest

47 – Try some fine brews on a beer tasting tour

There’s nothing like a brew in Bucharest, so why not try a few of them on some beer tasting tours?

Check out some of the best pubs in town under the guidance of a local, or sample some specimens of the ever-growing craft beer scene.

And with a local guide on-hand, you’ll be able to learn even more about each exquisite brew you’re sampling – and the hardworking artisans that make them!

On your Bucharest pub crawl, you’ll get a healthy dose of history and culture – and you just might discover a new favorite brew!

• beer tasting tours in Bucharest

48 – Be a high-roller at the casinos

If you want to try to earn some extra money for your next vacation, there are plenty of awesome casinos where you can test your gambling mettle.

Make the rounds of slots, poker tables, and live lotteries CLARIFY at Grand Casino Bucharest, where you can also shop, relax at the spa, or hit the gym.

Or swing by Fortuna Palace Centru, where you can get your fill of the unique machines and Vegas-style raffles before trying out the many excellent dining options on-site.

Platinum Casino’s lively tables will keep you on your toes, with such standards as Caribbean stud, blackjack, and Texas Hold ‘Em.

And at Palace Casino Bucharest, hardcore gamblers can test their mettle in the high limits area – the only place in town that puts no caps on how much you can bet!

Whether you’re headed for the big time or just want a few rounds at the slots, an evening out at the casino is a classy experience for all.

49 – Sample the excellent nightlife

While Bucharest is fantastic during the day, there’s a whole other side of it to see after dark.

Pub crawls are a great way to explore the capital’s hotspots, with Old Town offering a particularly wide range of options. Or you can take a self-guided excursion to some of the coolest spots in town.

Head to the electronica paradise of Kristal Glam Club (famed for its DJ scene), the rock music and themed party mecca of Fire Club , or the local and expat-friendly vibe of Old City.

Check out the live music and clubby atmosphere of Freddo Bar & Lounge , or enjoy a show with your drink at Bordello Bar , which features an active lineup of burlesque shows, live music, and cabaret performances.

Head to Face Club Bucharest for jaw-dropping, bombastic entertainment, or indulge in the never-ending party at Control Club , where top-notch live music provides an unforgettable soundtrack.

And if you’re feeling a little overwhelmed by all of the amazing choices, book one of the local nightlife tours , and get a wonderful sampler platter of all the best party spots!

From the upscale to the sweat-drenched and everything in between, you can easily stay out all night in the capital!

• pub crawls in Bucharest

50 – Drink or dance with a view at the best rooftop bars

The party scene in Bucharest is legendary, but if you want to enjoy a calmer side of the city’s nightlife, head up to some of the classy rooftop bars.

18 Lounge by Embassy specializes in upscale offerings, with finely curated cocktails and a seasonally-influenced menu to choose from as you survey the nearby lake and city.

Or cap off a shopping excursion to the Victoria department store with a trip to its roof, where Linea/Closer to the Moon offers live music, delicious Mediterranean food, and even igloos in the winter!

And if you enjoy great wine selections and plenty of opportunities to cut loose and dance, head over to NOMAD Skybar , where you can sip your drink as you gaze over the roofs and streets of Old Town. You can also swing by Aria TNB to enjoy a fabulous dinner and drinks just above the splendid National Theater, or Amethyst Sky Bar for beers, cocktails, and incredible vistas!

It’s a wonderfully stylish way to wind down your evening – or get it started!

51 – Dive into a legacy of music, food and fun at Beraria H

Nestled on the shores of the picturesque Lake Herastrau, Beraria H is testament to Romania’s vibrant history and contemporary spirit.

Located in what once was the Pavilion of Soviet Heavy Industry, this bustling venue has transformed into the largest restaurant in Romania, and the largest brasserie in Southeast Europe.

Every night Beraria H is buzzing with live concerts of various genres and serving up a variety of mouth-watering dishes and diverse drinks.

With an expansive terrace overlooking the lake and a legacy of reinvention, Beraria H promises an evening filled with fun.

52 – Celebrate the magic of Christmas in Bucharest

There’s something extra special during the holiday season about the streets of Bucharest, one of the most beautiful cities in Europe!

Twinkling lights, festive markets, and a general air of yuletide joy infuses every inch of town, and the Christmas tours in Bucharest will get you right in the thick of the magic!

Weave between vendor stalls selling every sort of holiday tchotchke, with the jingling of bells and the shimmer of ornaments mingling perfectly with the smells of local delicacies and the brilliant beauty of colorful lights.

Nibble on gingerbread, drape yourself in tinsel, and maybe even rub elbows with Santa!

How to get to Bucharest?

Bucharest Henri Coanda International Airport is a thriving flight hub, servicing destinations from around Europe and the wider world.

And the airport transfers in Bucharest will make it even easier to get your trip started off on the right foot! Just pick the vehicle and session that works for you, and get whisked straight to your hotel – no need to battle public transit!

Where to stay in Bucharest?

For a centralized location with plenty of style, spoil yourself at the Crystal Palace Hotel , which is near both Bucharest airport and the city center, and offers a delicious buffet and excellent fitness center.

Or get into the heart of town at Hotel Parliament , a cozy and classy resort within walking distance of such beloved attractions in Bucharest, such as Izvor Park, BNR Sports Arena, and the Parliament Palace.

Or kick back in the brightly-colored rooms at Vilacrosse Boutique Inn , which combines artsy designs with easy access to Revolution Square, the Romanian National Opera, and Cismigiu Gardens.

And Moxy Bucharest Old Town offers stylish surroundings right in the thick of the city, with a classy bar and wall of video screens inside to make you feel like you’re in the midst of an art gallery!

• best hotels in Bucharest

Visiting Bucharest on a budget?

Free walking tours in Bucharest are a wonderful way to see the city’s coolest spots, without breaking the bank! Roam the roads of Old Town, admire some of the city’s finest street art, or take a comprehensive stroll through over 500 years of landmarks and history.

Best of all, you’ll be able to gain local insights along the way, offering an invaluable glimpse into the nuances of Romanian culture. Have fun, bring some good walking shoes, and be sure to tip your guides!

Where to go next?

Try a truly European experience and take a day trip to another country! Just a few hours away from the city, Bulgaria beckons, with its Middle Ages monuments, UNESCO heritage sites, and charming traditional villages.

Swing by the country’s capital and try the things to do in Sofia , where you can spend the day museum-hopping, stroll down the beautiful streets, and lose yourself in the spectacular architecture of churches, mosques, and synagogues.

You can also book some multi-day trips from Bucharest to further explore wondrous areas such as the wild landscapes and medieval influences of Transylvania. And don’t miss out on the unique things to do in Brasov .

Final thoughts

With its historical buildings, beautiful green spaces, and distinctive cultural offerings, Romania’s capital is a true slice of European beauty.

It’s also a city unto itself, showcasing the country’s centuries of political upheaval right alongside its distinguished art and literature scenes.

There’s no shortage of amazing and surprising things to do in Bucharest, and the list keeps growing every day. So book some tickets online and come see for yourself!

Happy travels!

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Home > List Of The 40 Most Amazing Things To Do In Romania

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. 

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

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”

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

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)

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

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)

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)

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)

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)

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.

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

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.

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• How To Travel From Brasov To Bucharest
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• 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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50 Best Places to Visit in Romania, Europe’s Underrated Gem

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

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

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

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Historical Landmarks and Unique Points of Interest

Castelul de lut.

Contributed by Rachelle from  Adventure is Never Far Away

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

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

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

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

Painted Monasteries of Bucovina

Contributed by Kristin from  Adventures with Ensuite

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

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

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

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

Corvin Castle

Contributed by Odette from Omnivagant

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

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

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

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

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

Libearty Bear Sanctuary in Zarnesti

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

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

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

Ruins of the Carta Monastery

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

Turda Salt Mine

Contributed by Nicky from That Anxious Traveller

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

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

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

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

Dumbrava Sibiului Natural Park and the Astra Museum Complex

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

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

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

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

Bran Castle

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

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

Transfagarasan Road

Contributed by Kat from Wandering Bird

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

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

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

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

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

Sarmizegetusa Regia

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

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

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

Wooden Churches of Maramureș

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

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

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

Fortress of Suceava

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

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

Baile Romane (Roman Baths) of Geoagiu-Bai

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

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

Rock Sculpture of Decebalus

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

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

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

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

Fagaras Fortress

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

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

Densus Church

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

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

Rupea Citadel

The Rupea Citadel is an extremely important historical landmark.

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

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

Feldioara Fortress

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

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

Curtea de Argeș Monastery

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

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

Horezu Monastery

Contributed by Stephanie from Sofia Adventures

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

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

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

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

Cantacuzino Castle

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

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

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

Rasnov Fortress

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

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

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

Merry Cemetery

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed by Arnav from Eat | Travel | Live | Repeat

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sinaia (Peles Castle)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cluj-Napoca

Contributed by Cass from Cassie the Hag

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

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

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

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

Targu Mures

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

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

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

Contributed by Mario from Rest and Recuperation

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed by Anda from  Travel for a while

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

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

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

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

Contributed by Kami from My Wanderlust

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

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

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

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

Contributed by Arabela from The Spicy Travel Girl

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

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

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

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

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

Székelyudvarhely (RO: Odorheiul Secuiesc)

Contributed by Helga from  ShegoWandering

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

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

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

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

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

Contributed by Sean from Living Out Lau

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Places in Romania for Nature Lovers

Ceahlău national park.

Contributed by Audrey from That Backpacker

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

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

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

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

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

Piatra Craiului National Park

Contributed by Daniela from Grumpy Camel

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

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

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

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

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

Danube Delta

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

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

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

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

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

Trovanti Museum Natural Reserve

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

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

Sphinx Natural Monument

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

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

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

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

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

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

Berca Mud Volcanoes Reserve

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

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

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

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

Nerei-BeușNița Ravine National Park

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

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

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

Contributed by Stella Jane from  Around the World in 24 Hours

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

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

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

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

Retezat National Park

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

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

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About Or Amir

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

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

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

Thanks for the recommendation!

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

I loved Transylvania too 🙂

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

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

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

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

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

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

The most comprehensive Romania bucket list on the internet!

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

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

Always happy to inspire others 🙂 Thanks for reading!

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

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

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

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

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Hi, I'm Or!

I'm a passionate traveler obsessed with traveling in Europe and discovering hidden gems in each place I visit. For me, it's not about ticking destinations off the bucket list but experiencing each one of them to the fullest. Read more about me and my story.

• The 10 Most Unusual Things...

The 10 Most Unusual Things to Do in Bucharest

Bucharest is a city of contrasts. From the architectural styles to the size of buildings to be found in the city or the people you encounter, it is a city that will surprise and stimulate visitors. But how about taking it one step further? We came up with the ultimate checklist of the 10 most unusual and intriguing things to do in Bucharest, from the fun to the quirky and the outright weird.

1. step inside the world's heaviest building.

No trip to Bucharest is complete without a visit to Romania’s Palace of Parliament , world’s heaviest and most expensive administrative building. Standing at 84 meters (276 ft) tall, 240 meters (790 ft) long, and 270 meters (890 ft) wide, in terms of size is second only to the Pentagon. So, unless you happen to work inside the said building, this is a chance not to be missed.

Built by Romania’s former dictator Nicolae Ceauşescu , and inspired by his visit to North Korean capital Pyongyang, it is an uneasy symbol of the country’s communist past. Its 1,100 rooms are spread over 12 floors and eight underground levels. However, only 400 of them, including two meeting rooms, are finished and used. The last level is in fact a nuclear bunker connected by 20 kilometers of catacombs to the sites where the main state institutions were meant to be placed.

Due to its weight, the House of the People, as it is perhaps best known, sinks by six millimetres each year, so do hurry up and visit.

Strada Izvor 2-4, București, Romania

View this post on Instagram Sky show . . . #skyporn #skycolors #igersbucharest #bucharest #romania #romaniamagica #houseofthepeople #casapoporului #ciaobucarest #visitromania #visitbucharest #paintthesky #skyonfire #skycolors #clouds #cloudporn #cloudstagram #palaceoftheparliament A post shared by Bogdan Mirica (@bogdan_mirica) on Jun 2, 2017 at 11:25pm PDT

2. Check out Dracula's Castle

Everyone has heard of Dracula and his Castle, Bran . Perched on a foothill in Transylvania, it dominates the landscape with its presence. However, many historians believe the famed historical figure that inspired the mythical figure of Count Dracula, Vlad the Impaler, never actually set foot in the place. Bucharest too has its own Vlad Castle, giving one the chance to chase the spectre of the Count without even having to leave town.

Located in the center of Bucharest, in the Carol Park, the castle is a reproduction of the Poenari Fortress in Argeș County, Vlad’s long-time residence. Built at the request of King Carol I more than a hundred years ago, it was opened in 1906 during Romania’s General Exhibition. Its tower was used as a water basin and during WWI was used by a Romanian physicist to send radiotelegraphic transmissions.

Carol Park, Bucharest

View this post on Instagram Castelul din Parcul Carol nu e asa batran precum pare, desi seamana cu castelul lui Vlad Tepes, de la Poenari. Castelul bucurestean a fost construit cu ocazia Expozitiei Generale Romane, din 1906. #castle #castles #castel #bucharestcastle #bucharest #prinbucuresti #parculcarol #vladtepes A post shared by Marilena (@bercenidepoveste) on Oct 7, 2016 at 6:57am PDT

3. Walk among century-old village houses

A visit to the Village Museum will transport you back in time. Opened in 1936, when most Romanians still lived in rural areas, the museum, located at Bucharest’s Herăstrău Lake, celebrates an important part of Romanian culture. The houses, dating from anytime between the 17th and the 19th centuries, are spread along tree-lined alleys, perfect for strolling.

To best enjoy the visit, bring a picnic for lunch and make an afternoon of it, especially if visiting after a few intense days of sightseeing. But whatever you choose, make sure not to miss one of the most beloved and romantic old houses, simply known among locals as “the blue house.” Found on the shore of Herăstrău Lake, it can be spotted from the park, opposite from the museum.

Herăstrău Lake, Bucharest, Romania

View this post on Instagram Herastrau / Bucuresti #nature #art #light #lumini #romaniaefrumoasa #photohraphy #photoshoot #photographer ?#instagood #light #sky #wearebucharest #weareromania #bucurestiulmeu #photohraph #photoshoots 🏠🏫 #neata #bucurestiule #herastrau #park #parc #home #house A post shared by CUTREIERÂND 🇷🇴 (@raduchirita) on Jun 11, 2017 at 10:46pm PDT

Also located in Herăstrău Park, within walking distance from the Arch of Triumph , the monument celebrates the legacy of the US singer and his lesser known Romanian connection. The first megastar to visit Romania after the fall of the Communist regime in 1989, Michael Jackson was welcomed very enthusiastically by his fans. His 1992 concert, part of The Dangerous Tour, remained forever engraved in Romanian popular culture, as it allowed them to connect, through music , with the free world they knew existed behind the Iron Curtain.

However, it also did so for another particular reason, which appealed to the Romanians’ acid and deprecating sense of humor. In addressing the ecstatic crowd, Michael greeted them with the now infamous “Hello, Budapest!,” a line Romanians still laugh about, which will far outlive his musical legacy.

4. Walk among tombstones in Bellu Cemetery

Bucharest’s answer to Paris’ Père Lachaise Cemetery is the burial place of many famous Romanian writers, actors and personalities of centuries past. While many visit the tomb of national poet Mihai Eminescu, or famous 20th century singer Maria Tanase, many others come to the cemetery for its beautifully adorned marble monuments that often convey a tragic or very romantic story. For instance, the Poroineanu family’s tombstone, showing an elderly man kneeling in front of a girl lying motionless in a daybed, tells the story of two young lovers who, after getting married, find out they are in fact siblings. After the young woman commits suicide, the father, overcome with remorse, also realizes he cannot live with the pain and decides to end his life. Another popular attraction is represented by the graves of former Romanian dictator Nicolae Ceauşescu and his wife Elena.

Șoseaua Olteniței 3-5, București, Romania

https://www.instagram.com/p/BLo8oy_Buvt/?tagged=cimitirulbellu&hl=en

5. See the bullet holes of shots fired during the 1989 Revolution

Romania’s 40 year communist rule collapsed in 1989 after the people took to the streets and toppled the regime, one of the most oppressive in the former Soviet Bloc. During the days of unrest, that stretched between December 16-22, many people lost their lives at the hands of unknown individuals who shot indiscriminately at the crowds. Until today, the facades of some of the buildings that hosted important institutions of the communist party still bear the marks of bullets fired during the uprising. The walls of the headquarters of the architects’ union, located in the center of Bucharest, on Strada Demetru I. Dobrescu 5 , were kept in their post-December ’89 state, as a reminder of the city’s violent past.

View this post on Instagram #casapaucescu #uniuneaarhitectilor A post shared by Georgiana Sîrbescu (@geosirbescu) on Mar 26, 2017 at 6:28am PDT

6. Grab some brain food

For a quirky culinary experience, head to La Gil , and order their ‘ Creier pane .’ You will be served with a dish comprised of pork brains fried in a bread crust. Once considered a delicacy, nowadays it has largely lost its appeal, despite zombie movies being quite popular in Romania too.

Bulevardul Aerogării 21, București, Romania

https://www.instagram.com/p/BBNjHxhvqQq/

Dare to visit The Witches’ Pond?

Perhaps not recommended straight after lunch, a visit to the Witches’ Pond is perhaps one of the most unusual experiences one the list. Located just outside of Bucharest, in the Boldu-Creţeasca forest, the Witches’ Pond, or Balta Vrăjitoarelor, is a place surrounded by mystery. Locals swear the small pond, despite being very shallow at 1,5 meters, is able to swallow huge amounts of matter, such as the mortar thrown there by the authorities after the deadly 1977 earthquake that shook Bucharest.

7. Lift your curse at Zlătari Church

Church, Monastery

Located in the city center, on the lively Calea Victoriei, steps away from Bucharest’s Old Center, Zlătari Church hosts the remains of a 3rd century CE saint, St. Cyprian the Mage, the patron saint of magicians and sorcerers. The small church is home to St. Cyprian’s hand, which, some say, when touched, can lift spells. The church takes its name from the Roma goldsmiths that used to used to inhabit the area in the 17th century and was once a monastery surrounded by a garden that included an inn and a bell tower.

Calea Victoriei 12D, București 030026, Romania

https://www.instagram.com/p/BUmV1ssDb_C/?tagged=zlatari&hl=en

Let yourself get “beaten” by Cuci

For this one you’ll also have to travel 20 kilometers outside of Bucharest to the village of Brăneşti, before Easter , the first day after the start of fasting. On that day, village men dress like women and, while wear beautifully decorated and colorful masks, run around brandishing sticks while trying to touch everyone else in the village for good luck. While some men might get a tougher treatment, nobody gets harmed, but is instead softly touched, as a symbolic act. Beware though, tourists will not be spared!

https://www.instagram.com/p/BREEIAiBhGG/?tagged=branesti

8. Sunbathe on Europe's largest urban beach

Made it this far? Then it is definitely time to relax. At Sands of Therme, located just 15 kilometers outside of Bucharest, you will be able to swim and cool off and think back on an adventure-filled Bucharest trip. If visiting in the cold seasons, Therme Bucharest, the largest recreation, wellness and entertainment centre in Europe will convince you it’s time to book another trip to Bucharest.

DN1, Balotești 077015, Romania

View this post on Instagram S-a deschis #SandsOfTherme, cea mai mare plaja urbana din Europa! #urbanbeach #endlesssummer #cultureofhealth #pool #palmtrees #plaja #relaxare #thermemoments #thermebucuresti #timetotherme A post shared by Therme Bucuresti (@therme_bucuresti) on Jun 13, 2017 at 12:26am PDT

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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7 unmissable things to do in Romania

Feb 19, 2022 • 4 min read

The lush region of Maramureş is host to numerous Unesco-listed sites © Matt Munro / Lonely Planet

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 to attract visitors. Before word gets out, here are seven exciting experiences awaiting you in Romania.  

Gawk at immense Bran Castle

Bran Castle is often associated in the public eye with Dracula, and this wouldn’t be an article on Romania without a nod toward the infamous count, but the only bloodthirsty nobleman who ever stayed here was probably Romania’s own Vlad Țepeș  (aka Vlad the Impaler), a 15th Wallachian prince who was famed for spiking the heads of his Turkish adversaries. But Bran doesn’t need Dracula to induce awe. The castle’s enormous mass of turrets and castellations, all looking over a foggy, desolate mountain pass, pretty much recalls every horror film ever made. 

Admire the painted monasteries

The Unesco-protected, 15th-century painted monasteries of Bucovina show off not just Romania’s enduring devotion to its Latin-flavoured Orthodox tradition, but also superb artistry and craftsmanship. The elaborate frescoes adorning both the interiors and exteriors of the half-dozen or so churches were largely inspired by the Moldavian prince and hero, Stephen the Great (Ştefan cel Mare). The frescoes illustrate everything from biblical stories to the 15th-century siege of Constantinople. The dizzying matrix of colours and intricate detail, like at the stunning Voroneţ Monastery , blend effortlessly with remote natural surroundings.  

Step back in time in Maramureş

A visit to Maramureş in far northern Romania, above Transylvania, is like a trip back to a simpler, more rustic, more rural past. Isolated villages, separated from one another by vast, rolling fields and forested hillsides, cluster around stark wooden churches with weather-beaten, Gothic-style steeples. The region is home to several Unesco-listed churches, including at Bârsana , Budeşti , Deseşti , Ieud and Surdeşti . Stay for the weekend to see the villagers don their traditional Sunday dress. 

See the Saxon splendour of Transylvania

Around 800 years ago, the Hungarian kings invited Saxon Germans to settle hilly Transylvania as a way of protecting the region from encroachment by the Ottoman Turks. That Saxon legacy lives on in the form of beautifully preserved cities like Braşov , Sighişoara and Sibiu , the latter of which still occasionally refers to itself by the German ‘Hermannstadt’. Admire the architectural heritage at Sighişoara’s Citadel fortress or Braşov’s Black Church . Don’t pass up the chance to see the pretty Saxon villages, straight out of a Grimms’ fairy tale, at Biertan and Viscri. 

Boat or bird-watch on the Danube Delta

After meandering more than 2800km across the European continent, the powerful Danube River pours into the Black Sea in the northeastern corner of Romania. The Danube Delta is a vast protected wetland of water lilies and reeds, pushing up through the river’s countless tributaries. Visit the Central Eco-Tourism Museum of the Danube Delta in the port of Tulcea to see the varied flora and fauna that call the delta home. Ibis Tours runs regular birding outings, with chances to glimpse species like the white-tailed eagle, bee-eater, great white egret and the roller. 

Hike the Carpathians

The vast Carpathian mountain chain runs down the centre of the country, separating the historic provinces of Transylvania and Moldavia, and creating a far-reaching Romanian rooftop that feels on some days as if you’re gazing out over the entire country. Trekking is the best way to experience this riveting landscape of peaks, forests and pastureland. The Retezat Mountains of southwestern Transylvania, part of the Retezat National Park , sport some 80 glacial lakes and several peaks that push upwards of 2000m. 

Be wowed by Bucharest’s Palace of Parliament

The year 2019 marked 30 years since dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu was deposed in a popular revolt, but his memory lives on in the form of a gigantic palace that rivals in size both the Pentagon and the Taj Mahal. The sheer scale of the building serves as a testament to the folly of dictatorship, though the elaborate interiors, in room after room after room, showcase the quality of Romanian materials and workmanship. After touring the building, repair to one of the energetic capital ’s dozens of cafes, bars and restaurants.

Getting to and around Romania

The majority of international flights arrive at Bucharest’s  Henri Coandă International Airport . Several other cities have international airports that service mostly domestic routes, but also have flights to select European cities. Most international trains access the country via Budapest and onward to Braşov and Bucharest. Once inside Romania, an extensive bus and train network links major cities and towns.

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This article was first published December 2019 and updated February 2022

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

Posted on Last updated: December 15, 2023

Categories Romania

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

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

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

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

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

Page Contents

#2. Râșnov Citadel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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!).

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.

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.

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.

 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.

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.

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

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• 25 Famous Australian Landmarks To Plan Your Road Trip Around!

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

26 Best Things To Do In Romania

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I never expected to wind up in Romania for any extended period of time. However, I arrived mere days before the dreaded lockdown of March 2020, and have been here ever since (save for a few trips)! At the time of this writing it’s now been about two and a half years. Damn! That means I’ve had an awful lot of time to check out some of the amazing, cool things to do in Romania.

The country is not all Dracula and forests. From famous castles and fortified churches to the mountains and seaside, Romania truly offers something for everyone. Of course, most people have heard of Bran Castle or perhaps even the painted monasteries of Bucovina – but have you thought of visiting an underground lake? How about the most haunted forest in Europe?

I’ve rounded up the top 26 things to do in Romania that will make tourists fall in love with this country – have you visited them?

• Check out Romania's Stunning Castles

Visit One of the Most Beautiful Villages – Rimetea

Party by the black sea in vama veche, check out the unesco-listed danube delta.

• Spend a Few Days Exploring Sibiu's Old Town

Stop in Breb

Hike the carpathian mountains, sample traditional romanian food and wine, sip tuica (palinca), suceava (sucevita) monastery, moldovița monastery, voroneț monastery, humor monastery, arbore monastery, dragomirna monastery, explore the sighișoara citadel, pay your respects at the merry cemetery, drive the transfăgărășan highway, visit balea lake & balea waterfall.

• Visit Europe's Most Haunted Forest in Cluj-Napoca

Walk the Narrowest Street in Brașov

Visit all seven fortified churches of transylvania, experience life at a brown bear sanctuary, go to a summer music festival.

• Visit Bucharest's Palace of Parliament

Go Back in Time at the Dacian Fortresses of the Orăștie Mountains

Check out the statue of king decebalus, visit the palace of culture in iași, ski or snowboard at poiana brașov, visit constanța casino, go to an underground amusement park at turda salt mine, check out romania’s stunning castles.

Nearly everyone in the world has heard of Bran Castle , though perhaps know it better as Dracula’s Castle. That’s right, Bran Castle is the castle that supposedly inspired Bram Stoker’s famous novel, Dracula.

The castle is in Bran, which is just outside of Brasov. It’s a rather kitschy, small town, filled with outdoor stands selling vampire souvenirs and memorabilia. The castle itself is quite impressive, however, and fully worth a visit. Though, there is a lot of controversy as to the castle’s actual role in the life of Vlad Tepes, Vlad Dracula, Vlad the Impaler – whatever you’d like to call him. Regardless, Bran Castle is a staple in Romania and a must-visit for any tourists in the country.

But in addition to Bran Castle, Romania offers some other stunning medieval castles as well. Corvin Castle (pictured above) is my personal favorite, though many others say that Peles Castle is the most beautiful in the country. Corvin Castle is one of the largest castles in Europe, whereas Peles Castle is simply stunning.

In addition to these three that are most popular with tourists, there are other, lesser known castles to visit in Romania as well. Cantacuzino Castle is a beautiful castle that is not nearly as popular. This allows you the freedom to explore without the crowds. Károlyi Castle and Teleki Castle are two personal favorites that are worth a visit as well.

Most of the castles in Transylvania and Romania are rather run-down, which is why they aren’t as popular as Bran Castle, Corvin Castle, or Peles Castle. However, there’s still a lot of history in those crumbling walls and floors, and they all have something unique to offer visitors. Checking out these beautiful castles is among the most interesting things to do in Romania.

If you happen to be visiting Romania during Halloween, be sure to check out the epic Halloween Party held annually at Bran Castle .

Village life is still very much alive and well in modern day Romania – though you won’t feel it’s particularly modern. Even outside of the villages, it’s common to see a horse and carriage trotting down the road and holding up traffic in the smaller towns and cities.

So it should come as no surprise that Romania is chock-full of beautiful villages . Of course, not all are aesthetically pleasing, and some are in varying states of degradation. But most people agree that the village of Rimetea in Alba county is one of the most beautiful in the country, if not the most beautiful.

Once part of the Kingdom of Hungary, Rimetea is a picture-perfect village where life slows down. Filled with uniform houses painted white with hunter green shutters and window trim, cascading red geraniums overflowing from the window boxes, it’s a beautiful place to visit during the spring or summer.

Rimetea is in the Trascau Mountains, which is part of the Apuseni Mountains in the Western Carpathians. The huge peak you see in most pictures featuring Rimetea is Piatra Secuiului. During your day in Rimetea, you can also hike Piatra Secuiului, which offers excellent hiking options for the adventurous.

Visiting Rimetea is easy as a day trip from Cluj Napoca or Alba Iulia.

On the Southern shores of Romania’s Black Sea coast is the tiny, hipster-turned-party village of Vama Veche. Romanians (and tourists) of all ages love to party in Vama Veche during the summer months, often spending their nights dancing on the beach until the sun rises over the sea.

There isn’t a whole lot to do in the area aside from the sun and swimming during the day, dancing and drinking at night. But it’s definitely an experience to embrace!

Vama Veche, which literally translates to ‘old customs’, was once a small fishing village on the Bulgarian border. Romania’s academics used to vacation in Vama Veche during the Ceausescu era. It was here that people exchanged thoughts and ideas, embraced free thinking, and alternative lifestyles flourished.

Eventually, Elena, Ceausescu’s wife, learned of the village and ordered it to be destroyed. A few of the buildings were ruined but most survived.

Today, Vama Veche is party-central, though it hasn’t lost all of its charm. Sadly, prices are pretty exuberant in comparison with the rest of the country, and it’s a pretty loud destination not really suitable for families.

Still, it’s almost a rite of passage to spend at least a few days here!

Visiting the Danube Delta is one of the items to top most tourists’ ‘Romania Bucket List’. This is one of the most unspoiled, wild destinations in the whole of Europe. There are plenty of opportunities to get out and explore in nature. It’s particularly popular with birders and fishermen alike (fishing requires a permit, however).

Most of the Danube Delta is in Tulcea County, which falls in the northern part of Romania’s Black Sea coast. A tiny portion goes further north into Ukraine.

The entire area spans over 5,700 square kilometers of canals, rivers, lakes, marshes, and small islands where the Danube spills into the Black Sea.

The Danube River originates in Germany, nearly 3,000 kilometers away, and is the second longest river in Europe. Another claim to fame is that it is the most international river in the world – the Danube river spans nine countries!

Part of what makes this area so special is the thriving biodiversity in the region. It boasts the title of ‘Third Greatest Biodiversity Count in the World’, falling behind only the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador.

It’s much less popular, however, and even some Europeans are unaware of the magic that the Danube Delta holds.

There are three different branches that the river splits into as it approaches the Black Sea – Chilia, Sulina, and Sfantu Gheorghe. All are accessible from Tulcea, the most popular starting off point for tourists visiting the Danube Delta.

Aside from fishing and bird watching, taking boat rides down the canals and visiting the villages that seem to be afloat are among the most popular things to do. You can also visit an incredibly old forest, filled with wild horses and cattle.

Spend a Few Days Exploring Sibiu’s Old Town

If you’re familiar with this website, I’m sure it’s clear to you that Sibiu is by far, my all-time favorite city in Romania. There are so many things to do in Romania that are easily accessible from the area, either within the city itself or as day trips from Sibiu.

Sibiu’s Old Town is so charmingly beautiful, it’s like something out of a fairy tale. Have fun exploring the winding network of tunnels and stairways, explore Piaţă Mica, Piaţă Mare, and Piaţă Huet. Do some shopping on Strada Nicolae Bălcescu, or simply wander around people-watching.

The most popular things to do in Sibiu include climbing the Council Tower, where panoramic views over the entire city reward you at the top. The Brukenthal National Museum is a stunning art museum that offers one impressive art collection after another, focusing on Romanian painters and Romanian culture. Astra’s open air museum is popular for families, and offers a gateway to the past, displaying the evolution of Romanian homes throughout the ages. Dare to tell a lie on the Bridge of Lies, another popular tourist attraction, and see if it ‘speaks’ to you.

The Old City has no shortage of amazing places to eat in Sibiu . It’s widely-known among Romanians that Sibiu is one of the most foodie-friendly cities in the entire country.

Personal favorites include Restaurant Grand Plaza, Kulinarium, Hermania, and Ribs and Beer. For drinks, head to Saint Andrew’s Scottish pub, where you’re sure to meet fellow travelers and friendly locals.

There are a ton of outdoor activities nearby as well. Popular day trips from Sibiu include Buila Vânturărița National Park, Râpa Roșie (the red ravine), Păltiniș, and Cozia Natural Park.

Pay a Visit to the Wooden Churches of Maramureș

One of the most unique things about Romania is its wooden churches. These beautiful structures are in the region of Maramureș. They are some of the most well-preserved examples of medieval architecture in the world. 

There are over 100 wooden churches in Maramures, and each one is different. Though most are Orthodox, there are a few Greek-Catholic churches as well. They range in size from small chapels to large cathedrals. Intricate carvings and paintings decorate both the interior and exterior.

The Maramureș churches are constructed of quality timber, which is different than many of the churches throughout the rest of Romania, which are usually constructed out of concrete or hard stone. The characteristic trait of the Wooden Churches is their tall, slender bell towers that are always on the western side of the church. They are characteristic throughout the mountainous Maramures region of northern Romania. 

The Maramures Wooden Churches began to appear beginning in the 17th century, and continued to pop up well into the 19th century. The wooden churches served as a response to the Catholic Austro-Hungarian church’s ban on building stone Orthodox churches. Pretty clever!

Eight of the hundred or so churches are UNESCO World Heritage Sites as of 1999 and include the churches: Bârsana, Budești, Desești, Ieud, Plopiș, Poienile Izei, Rogoz, and Șurdești.

A visit to this region will allow you to experience the autonomous traditions that have prevailed since medieval days. If you get a chance, spend a few days in Breb , one of the most beautiful and enchanting villages in the area. 

Well-known in British culture due to a popular book, Along the Enchanted Way, by William Blacker, Breb is a popular village to visit in the area. It’s one of the most beautiful places I’ve seen! It’s a perfect place to take the pups (and baby or kids) and let them bask in nature. Breb is particularly special if you’re coming from a big city, like we did.

It’s a short drive to the Merry Cemetery, another of the best things to do in Romania.

The Carpathian Mountains are a chain of mountains that stretch across Central and Eastern Europe. They form a natural border between the countries of Romania and Hungary, and also extend into the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland, Ukraine, and Moldova. The range includes some of the tallest mountains in the region, including Mount Gerlach (2,655 m) and Mount Tarnic (1,696 m). The Carpathians are home to a diverse array of wildlife, including brown bears, lynx, wolves, chamois, and red deer. The mountains are also popular with hikers and skiers as well as those looking for some natural history.

There are a number of different sub-ranges of the Carpathians in Romania, all of which are perfect for hiking enthusiasts. The Retezat, Fagaras, Apuseni, Bucegi, Cândrel, and Bistrita are just a few of the sub ranges that hikers love to explore.

I’ve detailed some of our favorite sub-ranges to hike below:

Retezat National Park is located in the Southern Carpathian Mountains and is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in Romania. The park is abundant with forests, meadows, and rivers. There are also a number of hiking trails, making it a great destination for nature lovers. 

The Fagaras Mountains are located in central Romania and offer some of the best hiking in the country. There are numerous trails to choose from, ranging from easy to challenging. The mountains are also home to several glaciers, making them a popular destination for ice climbing.

The Apuseni Mountains are a great place to hike and explore. There are many different trails to choose from, so you can find one that is perfect for your level of fitness and experience. The scenery is stunning, and the views from the top of the mountains are truly breathtaking.

The Bucegi Mountains are also a favorite!

Traditional Romanian food and wine was something that truly surprised me when I arrived. I fully expected to live off of meat and potatoes for the duration of my stay here, however, that couldn’t be farther from the truth.

There is a lot of foreign influence in Romanian cuisine – Hungarian, Turkish, Austrian, German, and more. Particularly in Transylvania, the Hungarian and German influence is quite prominent in the food.

The most popular dish in Romania is sarmale, cabbage rolls. The cook stuffs the sarmale with a mixture of ground meat, rice, and herbs. A special pot specifically designed for sarmale cooks them.

Try them with a little Eros Pista if you like things spicy – this is likely the only, legitimately spicy hot sauce you’re likely to find in Romania (though it is a Hungarian product).

Ciorba de Burta (belly soup), ciolan (ham hock) with beans, zacusca (eggplant spread), pickles, baked peppers, and cabbage salad are all likely to grace your table when dining at a Romanian restaurant.

Vegan or vegetarian? No problem. There is a surprisingly wide array of veg-friendly options as well. Vegetarian sarmale, mushroom goulash, and mamaliga cu brânza (polenta with cheese) are all accommodating. If you’re in question, say you want something ‘de post’ – this means without animal products. You’re likely to see a lot of menus ‘de post’ leading up to Orthodox Easter.

In terms of desserts, you’ll be in heaven. Papanasi are the ultimate – they are little, fried balls of dough with sweet cheese, topped with a sour plum or cherry dulceata (jam) and a dab of sour cream. Other popular Romanian desserts include Cozonac (common around Christmas time), prajitura or placinta (cake or pie), and anything involving plums, cherries, and sweet cheese.

If you make friends while in Romania, they will undoubtedly invite you for a glass of tuica (or palinca – they are essentially the same thing, it just depends on the region from which you get it).

Tuica is a very strong spirit consisting of fermented plums, apples, peaches, apricots, or other stone fruits. The best comes from the Maramures region (in particular, a tiny village called Sârb).

To make tuica, the fruit of the plums is first fermented and then distilled. The fermentation process takes a few weeks, during which time the fruit breaks down and produces alcohol. After fermentation, distillation occurs to produce a clear liquid with a high alcohol content.

Tuica is typically served in small glasses, and it is considered to be a strong drink. You sip it instead of shoot it.

It is often drunk as an aperitif before a meal, or after dinner as a digestif.

If you are looking for a traditional Romanian drink to enjoy, tuica is a great option. It is a strong drink that is perfect for sipping, and it has a unique flavor that you are sure to enjoy. Whether you drink it before or after a meal, tuica is a delicious way to experience Romanian culture.

Just be careful – tuica has the same effect on me (and my husband) as tequila does on some people. In other words, it makes you a little bat-shit crazy and fired up, sometimes not in a good way!

Painted Monasteries of Bucovina

The Painted Monasteries of Bucovina are a collection of six monasteries located in the northeastern part of Romania. These monasteries were built in the 15th and 16th centuries. Religious scenes adorn the exterior walls. The monasteries are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Romania for those looking for a taste of Romanian history.

The six monasteries include:

The best-known of these monasteries is the Suceava Monastery, founded in the early 15th century. The exterior walls are covered with paintings of saints and angels, while the interior is decorated with biblical scenes. 

This monastery is notable for its beautiful green frescoes. Sucevita is less crowded than Voroneț, so it’s a great choice if you’re looking for a more relaxed experience.

The Moldovița Monastery is one of the best-preserved of the bunch and its exterior walls are covered in beautiful frescoes. The monastery was founded in 1532 by Petru Rares, who was the voivode (ruler) of Moldavia at the time.

This monastery is famous for its brightly-colored frescoes, which depict scenes from the Old and New Testaments. Moldovita is smaller than Voronet and Sucevita, but it’s just as beautiful.

Voroneț Monastery is one of the most beautiful painted monasteries in Romania. It is located in the village of Voroneț, Suceava County. The monastery was built in 1488 by Stephen the Great, one of the most famous rulers of medieval Moldavia. 

The exterior walls of the monastery are covered with frescoes. The most famous fresco is “The Last Judgment”. This fresco covers the south wall of the church. It is one of the best examples of Byzantine art in Romania.

This monastery is famous for its striking blue frescoes, which earned it the nickname “The Sistine Chapel of the East.”

Humor Monastery was also built in 1532 by Petru Rares. Its dominant color is a reddish-brown that dominates the frescoes, which depict the Last Judgment and the Siege of Constantinople.

Both Petru Rares and his wife are both buried beneath the grounds of the Humor Monastery.

This was the first of the Painted Monasteries to be included in the collection of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Interesting frescoes at Arbore Monastery include The Hymn of the Prayers to the Virgin and The Prodigal Son. You’ll also see the Last Judgment and the Siege of Constantinople, which are common frescoes on the painted monasteries.

The monastery was founded in the 14th century by Saint John the Baptist, and it has been a place of worship ever since. Every year, thousands of pilgrims come to Arbore Monastery to pray and meditate.

The Dragomirna Monastery, located in the Suceava county of Romania, is a Wallachian Orthodox monastery founded in the early 14th century. 

The Dragomirna Monastery is known for its beautiful Byzantine-style frescoes and icons, as well as its collection of holy relics. The monastery’s most precious relic is a fragment of the True Cross, brought to the monastery by Saint Andrew himself. The Dragomirna Monastery is an important pilgrimage site for Orthodox Christians, and many pilgrims come to the monastery each year to venerate the holy relics and icons.

The best time to visit the painted monasteries is during the summer, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, keep in mind that these monasteries are located in a remote region of Romania, so you’ll need to plan your trip carefully.

If you’re traveling from Bucharest, the capital of Romania, it’s best to take a train or bus to Suceava, the nearest city to the painted monasteries. From Suceava, you can either take a taxi or rent a car to get to the monasteries.

Sighișoara Citadel is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved medieval towns in Europe. The citadel, which is located in the historic center of Sighișoara, was built in the 12th century by Transylvanian Saxons and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The citadel is located on a hilltop overlooking the Tarnava River, offering some impressive views of the city outside the walled center. It served as a military stronghold for centuries and was home to many famous historical figures, including Vlad III Dracula.

The medieval citadel is famous for its Clock Tower, which is the tallest of its kind in Romania. The tower has a museum that chronicles the history of the town. 

Other notable landmarks within the citadel include the Church of St. Nicholas, which dates back to the 13th century, and the House of Vlad Dracula, which was purportedly the home of Vlad III Dracula, the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s fictional vampire.

Today, the citadel is a popular tourist destination and is home to a number of shops, restaurants, and hotels. It is also the site of the annual Sighișoara Medieval Festival , which celebrates the town’s rich history and culture.

One of the most unique cemeteries in the world is in Sapanta, Romania. The Merry Cemetery is famous for its colorful tombstones that feature humorous epitaphs.

The cemetery began in 1935 by a local wood carver named Stan Ioan Pătraş. He believed that death should not be a sad occasion, but instead a celebration of life. He wanted to create a place where people could laugh and remember their loved ones. This is reflected in his tombstone creations, which feature brightly painted scenes and pictures or symbols from the deceased person’s life. 

Some of the inscriptions are downright humorous, with references to alcoholism or other follies, but never in a malicious way.

Pătraş died in 1977, but his work has been continued by other artists. Today, the Merry Cemetery is a popular tourist destination. Visitors come from all over the world to see the unique tombstones and epitaphs.

The many visitors to the Merry Cemetery find it to be a truly unique and moving experience.

The Sapanta Merry Cemetery is a beautiful reflection of the Romanian people’s belief that death is not an end, but simply a part of life.

The Transfăgărășan Highway is one of the most scenic roads in Romania and one of the best things to do in Transylvania . It winds its way through the Fagaras Mountains, offering stunning views of the mountains and lakes. The highway is especially popular in the summer, when it is open for cars and motorcycles.

The Transfăgărășan Highway is located in the southern part of Romania. The road was built in the 1970s and it spans a distance of approximately 140 kilometers. The highway is typically open from May through October. It may be closed due to weather conditions, even within the standard opening months.

When driving on the Transfăgărășan Highway, you’ll need to take caution as there are many sharp turns and switchbacks. The road is also quite narrow in places, so be sure to drive carefully. However, the views from the highway are truly incredible and well worth the effort.

Driving in Romania is not for the faint of heart. It’s one of the most dangerous countries in which to drive within Europe, statistically speaking.

Exercise caution and drive carefully – no matter how careful you are, you can never count on others to be as cautious.

If you’re looking for a breathtaking natural destination in Romania, look no further than Balea Lake . Situated in the Fagaras Mountains, Balea Lake is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the country. 

Whether you’re hiking to the lake or taking the cable car from Balea Cascada, the journey is sure to be memorable. Once you arrive at the lake, stunning views of the snow-capped mountains are there to greet you. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of some wildlife.

The lake and waterfall are not always accessible due to weather conditions. Before you begin what may very well be a long drive to see them, check the local forecast and see if you can access the lake and waterfall.

Visit Europe’s Most Haunted Forest in Cluj-Napoca

If you’re looking for a truly unique and spooky destination, then look no further than Hoia Baciu forest in Romania. The forest got its name from a shepherd who disappeared in the early 1900s, and it is said to be cursed. Locals avoid the forest, as it is said that if you enter, you will never come out again.

This forest is famous as the ‘Bermuda Triangle of the Balkans’ because of the strange occurrences that have been reported here. People have claimed to see UFOs, paranormal activity, and even time warps! 

Visitors have reported feeling strange sensations like nausea, anxiety, and fear while in the forest, and many have even claimed to see ghosts! If you’re feeling brave enough to venture into the Hoia Baciu Forest, be sure to bring a camera – you never know what you might capture on film!

I went to the forest once with Szilard and our dogs. However, we never made it past the first line of trees, as there were some ferocious-looking dogs that were unchained and unleashed coming straight towards our little boys. It’s still on my list to return one day, if only to photograph the unique, swayed-looking trees! 

Despite the warnings, the Forest is a popular destination for tourists, and many people say that they have had strange experiences while visiting. 

Whether you believe these stories or not, there’s no denying that Hoia Baciu Forest is a fascinating place to visit. If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, a visit to the Hoia Baciu forest is a must and a great thing to do in Cluj-Napoca.

The narrowest street in Brașov is Strada Sforii, and it measures a mere 90cm at its narrowest point. The street was built back in the 15th century, and it used to be the only way to connect two of Brașov’s main streets. 

Locals still use it as a shortcut today!

Today, it’s a popular tourist attraction, and it’s definitely worth a visit if you’re ever in town!

While you’re in Brasov, you should also check out the Black Church as well as Brasov Old Town. Check out our Brasov Guide for more things to see and do!

If you’re looking for a truly unique travel destination, the Fortified Churches of Transylvania should definitely be on your list. This is certainly among the best things to do in Romania. Villagers built these churches in the Middle Ages and are some of the most well-preserved examples of that architectural style in Europe.

There are over 150 fortified churches scattered throughout Transylvania, so you’ll have plenty to choose from when planning your visit. Many of them are located in small villages, which makes for a great opportunity to explore rural Romania and get a taste of traditional village life.

Only seven of these churches made the cut to be included in the prestigious list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. These include:

• Valea Viilor

Our personal favorites are Saschiz, Biertan , and Valea Viilor.

When visiting a fortified church, be sure to take some time to admire the intricate exterior stonework as well as the defensive features like towers and battlements. If you’re lucky, you may even be able to go inside and explore the church’s interior.

Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a unique travel destination, the Fortified Churches of Transylvania are definitely worth a visit. So start planning your trip today!

There are many animal sanctuaries around the world, but few are as unique as the Libearty Brown Bear Sanctuary in Romania. Dozens of rescued brown bears call this sanctuary home.

Since the sanctuary’s founding, it has become a haven for bears who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned. The sanctuary provides these bears with food, shelter, and veterinary care. Most importantly, it gives them the love and attention they so desperately need.

Visitors to the sanctuary can see the bears up close and learn about their individual stories. The experience is both heartwarming and eye-opening, and it’s sure to leave a lasting impression on everyone who visits.

We never promote animal interactions that are unethical, such as riding animals, zoos, or forced animal encounters. You can visit the Brown Bear Sanctuary in Romania with the peace of mind knowing that this is an ethical experience.

The northwestern Romanian city of Cluj-Napoca comes alive with festivals during the summer months. First comes TIFF (Transylvanian International Film Festival), followed by Lavanda Lola Festival (annual lavender festival), and finally, Electric Castle and Untold , two of the biggest music festivals in all of Europe.

Electric Castle is usually in July and has a five-day lineup of popular artists. Past headliners have included Florence and the Machine, Skrillex, Limp Bizkit, Sigu Ros, Franz Ferdinand, Alt-J, and more. 

This year, the headliners include Twenty One Pilots, Disclosure, Aurora, Moderat, Sofi Tukker, and more. Sadly, Deftones were on the set list to perform but they canceled the day after we bought tickets! 

Electric Castle is at Bánffy Castle in Bonțida, just outside of Cluj-Napoca.

Untold is more of an EDM festival that takes place in the city center at Cluj Arena each year in August. It’s a few days of non-stop dance music. Usual performances at Untold include Steve Aoki, Armin van Buren, Avicii, David Guetta, Major Lazer, and more.

There are other festivals throughout Romania, including on the Black Sea coast and in Bucharest, including SAGA Festival, Neversea, and Summer Well Festival.

Visit Bucharest’s Palace of Parliament

The Bucharest Palace of Parliament is a must-see when visiting the Romanian capital. Built in the 1980s under the communist regime of Nicolae Ceaușescu, it is the world’s second largest administrative building, after the Pentagon.

Paul Smărăndescu, a Romanian architect, designed the epic building. Upon its completion in 1997, it cost a total of $3 billion. It was originally intended to be the home of the Romanian Parliament, but it has never been used for that purpose. Instead, it now houses the Romanian Senate and Chamber of Deputies, as well as a number of museums and art galleries. 

Visitors can take a guided tour of the building to learn about its history and see some of its key features, including the grandiose halls and chambers, as well as a number of Ceaușescu’s personal belongings. The palace is also home to a Museum of Contemporary Art, which showcases Romanian and international artists.

The Bucharest Palace of Parliament is a controversial symbol of the Communist regime in Romania. Many Romanians view it as a wasteful and unnecessary extravagance, built at the expense of the Romanian people. Others see it as a symbol of Romanian progress and modernization. Whatever your opinion of the palace, there’s no denying that it’s an impressive sight.

The Dacian Fortresses of the Orăștie Mountains are a group of six fortresses located in what is now Romania. The Dacians built the eerie fortresses, an ancient people who lived in the area between the 1st and 2nd centuries AD.

The Orăștie Mountains are located in central Romania, about 150 kilometers (93 miles) northwest of Bucharest. They are part of the Carpathian Mountains, which stretch across much of central and eastern Europe. The Dacian Fortresses of the Orăștie Mountains are located on three peaks in the Orăștie Mountains: Blidaru, Costești-Blidaru, and Piatra Roșie.

The Dacians built the fortresses between the 1st and 2nd centuries AD. The Dacians were an ancient people who lived in what is now Romania, Moldova, and parts of Ukraine and Bulgaria. They were skilled warriors who used the fortresses to defend against invasions from the Romans, who conquered the area in 106 AD.

The fortresses fell into ruin after the Roman conquest. Archaeologists and historians rediscovered the fortresses in the 19th century. Today, they are a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the ruins of the fortresses and learn about the history of the Dacians.

The Dacian Fortresses of the Orăștie Mountains are a UNESCO World Heritage Site as of 1999.

Some say the Dacian Fortresses are a ‘Romanian stonehenge’ and based on the photographs and overall vibe once you are there, it’s absolutely correct (though, I’ve never visited Stonehenge, so I can only imagine!).

This is one of the best things to do in Romania for history buffs.

The Statue of King Decebalus is a massive monument located in Romania. The statue depicts the last king of Dacia, Decebalus. It is the tallest statue in Romania and one of the tallest statues in Europe. The statue was built in 2004, and it stands at a height of over 100 feet. The base of the statue is made from granite, and the body is made from bronze. The eyes of the statue are said to be made from emeralds. The statue is located in the city of Orastie, and it is a popular tourist destination.

The Statue of King Decebalus is a must-see for anyone visiting Romania. The statue is an impressive sight, and it is a great way to learn about the history of Romania. The statue is also a popular spot for photos, so be sure to bring your camera!

The Palace of Culture in Iași is a large building located in the center of the city. Built in the early 20th century, the Palace has a Neo-Romanian architectural style. The palace houses several museums, a theater, and a library. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Iași.

The Palace of Culture is located on Stefan cel Mare Avenue, in the central part of Iași. Petre Antonescu, ion D. Berindey, and Dimitrie Maimarolu designed the Palace of Culture and they commissioned its build between 1906 and 1925. The palace has a total area of ​​26,000 square meters and is 107 meters long and 60 meters wide.

Sculptures and reliefs decorate the exterior of the Palace of Culture, representing different historical moments from Romania’s past. Two lion statues flank the main entrance, and above the entrance there is a large clock. There are also four statues on the corners of the roof, which represent Romanian rulers from different periods in history.

The interior of the palace is just as impressive as the exterior. The most notable room is the Great Assembly Hall. A large chandelier and two murals by Romanian artist Costin Petrescu are the main focal points. Various events take place in the hall such as concerts, conferences, and exhibitions.

The Palace of Culture in Iași is one of the most important tourist attractions in the city. It is a symbol of Romanian culture and history, and it is definitely worth a visit if you are ever in Iași.

If you’re looking for a great place to ski or snowboard in Romania, look no further than Poiana Brașov. This gorgeous resort town is located in the heart of the Transylvania region, and it’s home to some of the best skiing and snowboarding in the country. 

Staff here keep the slopes impeccably-maintained and offer something for everyone, from beginner to expert. When you’re done on the fresh powder, you can enjoy all that Poiana Brașov has to offer, from its charming Old Town to its many restaurants and cafes. So whether you’re a seasoned skier or snowboarder, or if you’re just looking to try something new, Poiana Brașov is the perfect place for you.

Snow sport enthusiasts agree, this is one of the most fun things to do in Romania.

Constanța Casino is a must-visit for anyone in the area. This historic landmark has been a popular tourist destination since it was first built in the early 1900s. The once-thriving casino is located right on the waterfront, so you can enjoy stunning views of the Black Sea while you take photographs of the now-abandoned building.

The building fell into a state of disrepair and slowly became non-functional. It was briefly used as a hospital during WWII, and the building closed entirely in 1990.

When I visited in 2021, it was fully under renovation.

Touted as one of the underground wonders of the world, Turda Salt Mine descends 120 meters below the earth to take you through a salt mine that dates back to the 1200s.

If you’re looking for a truly unique and incredible experience, look no further than the Turda Salt Mine in Romania. This mine is hundreds of years old and has since been turned into a salt museum and spelunking adventure. You are taken through different mines, each labeled with explanations of former uses and the mechanisms used to mine salt there. 

Finally, you arrive at the underground amusement park, which admittedly isn’t very large, but it’s underground, what do you expect? You can take a paddle boat on the underground lake or take a ride on the underground ferris wheel. It’s a great place to take the family, though if you’re afraid of heights, consider yourself warned! 

You can explore the depths of the mine, learn about its history, and even try your hand at some fun activities like zip-lining. And of course, you can’t leave without trying some of the delicious salt-infused food! Taking a day trip to Turda Salt Mine from Cluj-Napoca is super-easy. This is one of the coolest things to do in Romania, hands down!

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10 Best Places to Visit in Romania

Located on the Balkan Peninsula, Romania is a country of contrasts. The former Eastern Bloc country has, over the years, belonged to the Romans who gave the country its name, the Hungarians and the Ottomans. It is filled with quaint old towns, mountain resorts that offer great skiing, and a burgeoning art community. It’s most famous citizen, however, may be the vampire Dracula, a fictional character found in Transylvania.

History is something that Romania is definitely not short of. Medieval castles dot the country – notably in Sighişoara, which is filled with historic buildings and Gothic-era, cobblestoned old quarters.

You’ll find even more history in Brașov, where – if you really do want to know where Dracula really lived – you’ll find the 14th-century Bran Castle to learn about more than just legends. And Bucharest? You’ll find yourself charmed by the medieval architecture as much as wowed by the wild buildings of the Communist era. Here’s a look at the best places to visit in Romania:

10. Danube Delta [SEE MAP]

The majority of the Danube Delta, Europe’s second largest river delta, lies in Romania. Originally part of the Black Sea, the Danube Delta is a good place to observe nature.

It is home to many unique species of plants and animals in Europe, as well as contains 23 different ecosystems, including some of the world’s largest wetlands. Previous visitors rave about the spectacular sunsets and highly recommend taking a slow boat ride on the river.

9. Cluj-Napoca [SEE MAP]

Home to the country’s largest university, Cluj-Napoca is considered the unofficial capital of the historical region of Transylvania. The city, which pre-dates the Roman colonization, is one of Romania’s arts and cultural centers. Home to a large Hungarian population, Cluj-Napoca features a statue honoring one Hungarian king.

Built in the 14th century, the Gothic St. Michael’s Church has the tallest church tower in the country. The National Museum of Art, housed in a former palace, has a large collection of work by Romanian artists.

8. Mamaia [SEE MAP]

Located on the Black Sea, Mamaia is Romania’s most popular seaside resort. Mamaia is small, however, situated on a strip of land that is about 8 km (5 miles) long.

It has great white sand beaches, just made for sunning or people-watching. Mamaia has a water park, but activities are limited for small children. Adults, however, might enjoy a few lessons at the wind-surfing academy.

7. Timisoara [SEE MAP]

Located in western Romania, Timisoara is one of the country’s largest cities, dating back to the early 13th century. Once part of the Ottoman Empire, it was the first European city to have electric street lamps. The city has bounced back after sustaining heavy bombing damage from both sides during World War II.

Unlike many European cathedrals, the Timișoara Orthodox Cathedral was only built in the 20th century, but the central, notable for its 11 towers, houses many historic religious objects as well as vintage icon paintings.

6. Bucharest [SEE MAP]

Bucharest is a city that combines the old with the new. Visitors might come across a centuries-old building, a modern high rise, and a Communist-style building all in the same block.

This modernizing European capital boasts the largest Parliament building in the world with 3,100 rooms and 12 stories high. Tours of this impressive building, constructed in 1984, are given frequently throughout the day. Also not to be missed in Bucharest is the old town center with its narrow cobblestone streets and old buildings, including medieval churches.

5. Sinaia [SEE MAP]

Sinaia is a mountain resort town that grew up around a monastery that was named for Mount Sinai. The monastery, which contains a copy of the first Bible printed in Romania, is a popular site today with tourists, who enjoy hiking in the summer and some pretty tremendous downhill skiing in the winter.

King Charles I built his summer home, known as Peles Castle, near here; it also is a popular tourist attraction. The town is noted for having pretty flowers, but visitors who pick them can find themselves in hot water, as this is not allowed.

4. Painted Monasteries [SEE MAP]

Among the most picturesque attractions of Romania are the Painted Monasteries of Bucovina in the northeastern part of the country. Their painted exterior walls are decorated with elaborate 15th and 16th century frescoes featuring portraits of saints and prophets, scenes from the life of Jesus, images of angels and demons, and heaven and hell. The best-preserved are the monasteries in Humor, Moldovita, Patrauti, Probota, Suceava, Sucevita, and Voronet.

3. Brasov [SEE MAP]

Located in central Romania, Brasov boasts everything from dynamic modern city life to old world charm and fascinating scenery. Surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains, the city is considered a mountain resort, with skiing and ice skating facilities.

A top sight is the Black Church, a Gothic cathedral so named because smoke from a huge 17th century fire blackened the stones. Visitors also may want to take a stroll down Rope Street, which is the narrowest street in the country.

2. Sibiu [SEE MAP]

Sibiu, once part of Hungary, dates back to the early 12th century. The city is located in Transylvania, an area that is associated with vampires, including Dracula, but it’s highly unlikely that visitors will run across any in this day and age.

Instead, travelers will find the Grand Square, in use since the 15th century, and Baroque buildings, including Brukenthal Palace, home to one of the oldest museums in the world. Visitors may also want to be on the lookout for remnants of old fortifications used to defend the city hundreds of years ago.

1. Sighisoara [SEE MAP]

Also located in Transylvania, Sighisoara is one of the best places to visit in Romania due to its beautiful preserved walled town. During the 12th century German craftsmen and merchants,

The Transylvanian Saxons, were invited here by the King of Hungary to settle and defend the frontier. They established a thriving trading town here and the citadel visitors see today. It was later extended and enlarged in the 14th century. Every July a Medieval Festival takes place in the old citadel. The landmark of the city is The Clock Tower, a 64 meter (210 foot) high tower build in 1556.

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Reader interactions.

December 24, 2020 at 7:37 pm

I visit 2 times in Romania it’s so beautiful ?️❤️ country people are very nice and kind . Price of hotel , food and car rental cheap .

April 5, 2018 at 8:59 am

it is very interesting for me to visit Romania. I know this country has its unique culture and history.

June 1, 2017 at 1:20 am

Adderrazak,

Try airport of Sibiu or Cluj Napoca(better connected, but not so nice city) . Don’t miss Brasov, surrounding mountains with winter resorts (+ castle in Sinaia), Sibiu, Sighisoara. Trains are OK, buses OK, but if your budget allows, rent a car. Each destination is doable in 2 days, there are no road tolls and parking is cheap or you can find free.

February 26, 2017 at 8:11 am

I’m thinking of visiting Romania in November. It ‘s my belief that the capital is not the most attractive city to visit. I’d love to visit Sighisoara but that wouldn’t be possible since it doesn’t have an airport. Which airport city is worth visiting in you opnion?

July 27, 2016 at 8:02 am

The description of Cluj-Napoca is a little bit incorrect: The highest church in the country is the Timisoara Orthodox church, which is 83.7 meters high, while the St Michael’s church is 80 meters high.

June 5, 2016 at 4:05 pm

I love my country and i am proud to be native Romanian. We have a very beautifal country, traditional’s culture in different part of country and ppl are kind.

May 30, 2016 at 8:07 am

I don’t know why the Hungarians are mentioned so much in this article. Sure, Transylvania was once part of Hungary, but that doesn’t mean that Romanians alone have no culture of they own. we don’t have a hungarian – ottoman mixed culture. We have our own culture, and it’s so different from that of neighbouring countries.

May 22, 2016 at 12:42 pm

I am Romanian, but I live in California now. However, I go home every summer. I am still amazed how beautiful my motherland is. This summer I’ll come visit with a friend, she’s American, who will see Romania for the first time. I know where to take her, since I have lived there 30 years. Romania needs a lot of rehabilitating, but it is still an underestimated gem in the heart of the Balkans.

January 23, 2016 at 12:27 pm

This is very helpful and I agree to that Romania is beautiful and many people don’t know how the ruins and landscape just takes your breath away!!!

January 13, 2016 at 9:20 am

Unfortunately,most of the old buildings from the cities you mentioned in this report are almost in ruins.Their facades need to be restored ,otherwise in short term they will colapse, endangering the people walking by.I do not know why the local authorities can not find a solution to force the owners of these old building to restore them.The cities would show a different face if these building were rehabilitated.

December 24, 2015 at 12:37 am

Indeed many many people do not even know Romania. A country that is very beautiful in terms of landscapes, culture and much much more.

December 27, 2014 at 4:45 pm

I think many people do not understand how beautiful Romania is in my next trip to Europe i will sure go there.

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15 best places to visit in romania in 2024 (after a 3 week trip).

In 2021, Bradley and I road tripped through Europe in our campervan and spent around 3 weeks in the wonderful country of Romania!

We fell in love with the country, and 3 weeks was a great amount of time to see all the best attractions that Romania has to offer.

Romania is a fantastic country that offers something for every type of traveller.

It’s bursting with culture, history, and castles. 

The people are friendly, the mountains are fresh, and you might even see a bear on your travels! 

This is also a perfect place for those wanting to visit a country in Europe that's budget friendly, we found Romania to be super cheap, and didn't feel like we had to miss out on any activities or experiences due to prices!

So we thought it would be a great idea to showcase all the best places to visit in Romania.

Along with a few added travel tips and tricks to help make the most of your time here.

Before we get stuck into the details, I thought I'd round up my ultimate top 5 places to visit in Romania (just in case you're short on time! ;) )

• The home of Dracula:  Bran Castle- seriously one of the coolest things about Romania is all the castles, and you can't miss Dracula's! 
• Peles Castle:  yes another castle, but serioulsy beautiful! 
• Transfăgărășan Highway : one of my favourite drives in all of EUROPE! Chance to see bears and experience snow in November! 
• Liberty Bear Sanctuary: a bear rescues sanctuary which is super informative.
• Salina Turda : without doubt, one of the most unique and coolest places in all of Europe.

Now that's done,

Let’s get stuck in …

Travellerspoint

15 Best Places To Visit In Romania

1. discover the capital of bucharest.

Bradley and I have been to Bucharest not once, but twice!

And both times, we loved it!

The second time was actually for Bradley's 30ths birthday celebrations with lots of friends, so it was also great that they got to witness the sights of Bucharest too.

Not only is Bucharest Romania’s capital, but it’s also the largest city in the country and studies have suggested it’s going to become Europe’s richest city by 2050. 

Situated on the Dâmbovița River, Bucharest is a scenic city that offers plenty to tourists. 

Some of the most popular places to visit in Bucharest include exploring the city’s old town, the National Museum of Romanian History and the Romanian Athenaeum which is the city’s most prestigious concert hall. 

Before WWII, the capitals’ nickname was ‘Paris of the East’ due to its similar architecture and Art Nouveau palaces.

If you want to get a feel of this part of the city, then head to the Arc de Triomphe, the beautiful gardens or the quaint streets lined with restaurants. 

The Palace of Parliament is also found within the city centre and is the world's largest Parliament building. The building consists of over 1,000 rooms and guided tours are available. 

If you are planning to visit Bucharest, you won’t be disappointed.

It’s one of the best places to visit in Romania and should be at the top of your itinerary. 

I can also say that it's a really great party destination if you're hoping to meet some locals, fellow travelers and have a few drinks!

We took a private bar crawl with Buchaest2night and it was awesome, they even arranged a limo rental which was special.

2. Visit Bran Castle: The home of Dracula

I'll admit it, Bradley and I are vampire fans, and by that I mean, we like the Twilight movies, it's our guilty pleasure, which is why when I knew were going to visit the home of Count Dracula himself, I was super excited...

Bran Castle is a landmark and National Monument in Transylvania and is known as Dracula’s Castle. 

Fun fact, even though the castle is often linked with Bram Stokers ‘Count Dracula’ although the author never actually visited Transylvania. However, he depicts the scenes in his book so well, that you would never realise. 

The surrounding villages believe in the existence of evil spirits, ghosts or ‘strigoi’, and until half a century ago thought these individuals were living among them.

A strigoi is someone that leads a normal life in the day, until their souls leave their bodies at night and they come out to hunt their prey. 

Today, the castle is a museum that has been dedicated to displaying furniture and art pieces collected by Queen Maria, who was the castle's previous royal resident.

Along with her exhibitions, and her husband King Ferdinand's room, the castle also has exhibits about Romanian vampire lore, Vlad the Impaler and Bram Stoker. 

Bran Castle is one of the most popular Romanian tourist attractions and is a must-visit.

It won't take you too long to wander around, and afterwards you can grab some Dracula theme souvenirs, including little Dracula dolls, and Dracula wine (Romanian wine is pretty nice btw!)

3. Explore the beauty of Peles Castle

Peles Castle is located in the charming town of Sinaia, nestled at the foot of the Bucegi Mountains. 

It’s a Neo-Renaissance castle with intricate and wonderful architecture and is recognised by many as one of the most beautiful castles in Europe.

Peles Castle was commissioned by King Carol I in 1873, and after it was built served as the summer residence of the royal family until 1947. 

The king spared no expense, and Peles was the first castle in Europe to have electricity.

It even had its own power plant, along with 160 rooms which are full of European art, crystal chandeliers and German stained glass windows. 

During communist Romania, the castle became national property and many of the items were transferred to the National Arts Museum in Bucharest. 

Peles Castle is one of the most beautiful places in Romania, due to its scenic surroundings and its stunning interior. 

4. Drive the famous Transfăgărășan Highway

If you are heading out on a road trip in Romania, then driving the Transfăgărășan Highway is a must. 

This is regarded as one of the best road trips in the world!

And we can confirm, it's cool!

The highway was built in the early 1970s as a strategic route to cross the Fagara Mountains if Romania were to be invaded by the USSR. 

Transfăgărășan highway is over 150km in length, and its highest point is at 2,042m so as you can imagine the views are spectacular. 

Thanks to its appearance on BBC’s Top Gear, the highway has now become one of the most popular attractions in Romania. 

However, it’s only fully open from June to October as the road is dangerous during the winter conditions due to ice and snow. 

Although a spectacular road, this drive isn’t for the faint-hearted.

With large sections of road without barriers and sheer drop-offs of over 1,000 ft, this isn’t a journey you want to do if you aren’t a confident driver. 

When we visited, we actually didn't get to do *all* of the drive, because it was still wintery and they had not fully opened the road yet.

However, we have full intentions of returning and completing the drive! 

5. Climb 1480 steps to Poenari Citadel

Poenari Citadel (or Poenari Castle) is one of the most well-known places in Romania, as it was home to the famous Vlad the Impaler. 

Vlad the Impaler was an important prince of Wallachia and is recognised as a national hero of Romania.

However, he was best known for his cruelty and wickedness when it came to punishing his enemies. 

Poenari is located high on a cliff edge near the Făgăraş Mountains, and in its day was one of the most impenetrable fortresses in the country. 

In 1888 a landslide brought down part of the citadel, but otherwise, Poenari is quite well maintained and is one of the best places to visit in Romania. 

Climbing up to the top of Poenari Citadel is no easy feat with 1480 steps to climb, but the views are worth it. 

If you are planning to drive the Transfăgărășan highway, then you can combine the two sites as the citadel is located at the start of the mountain road. 

I'll be totally honest with you, we didn't climb the steps....but we did fly our drone for a closer look!

Again it was closed due to the time of year we visited.

6. Visit the Historic town of Râșnov

Râșnov is located in the Carpathian Mountains, within the region of Transylvania. It’s thought to have been built in the Thracian-Roman times although it’s most famous for its fortress.

Râşnov Fortress is found on a rocky hilltop 650ft above the town and was built by the Saxons to protect the town from invaders. 

There is a legend attached to the fortress about two captured Turkish soldiers. As the citizens were concerned about the availability of drinking water, the soldiers were set to work digging a well. 

They were assured of their freedom if they were to complete the task, and according to local legends, it took them 17 years to finish.

However, even after being promised their freedom, the soldiers were killed anyway and the famous well is still found within Râșnov Fortress.

Currently, the fortress is undergoing restoration works, so unfortunately entrance inside isn’t permitted, but people can still access the grounds and view the fortress from outside. 

Other popular attractions in Râșnov include the old Saxon houses, the old Evangelical Church and the old Orthodox Church. 

7. Visit the Liberty Bear Sanctuary

The Liberty Bear Sanctuary is one of the best places to visit in Romania if you love animals. 

In the 1990s it was common to see bears sitting in small cages outside of restaurants.

They were used to attract customers, and unfortunately, it was a frequent sight throughout Romania.

However, one woman named Christina Lapis wanted to rescue these distressed animals and change the public's attitude towards these beautiful creatures. She wanted to stop this cruel and illegal exploitation and give these bears a new life. 

Today her dream has come true, with the Liberty Bear Sanctuary now being home to over 100 bears enjoying their freedom over 69 hectares of land. 

Most of the bears here were found in tiny cages up and down the country where they had been used as pets or public attractions. However, Betsy was the first bear to be transported overseas from the United States after spending her life as a circus bear. 

The bears were all caught from the wild as cubs and had lived their whole life in a cage. However, today these bears have the chance to climb trees, swim in the pools and explore to their heart's content. 

8. Explore the city of Brașov

Brașov is often known as the gateway into Transylvania and is located about 166 km (103 miles) from the capital of Bucharest. 

It’s one of the most visited cities in Romania and that's due to its picturesque location, beautiful architecture and relaxing atmosphere.

Some of the most popular places to visit in Brașov include the Piața Sfatului (the council square), the Biserica Negara and Catherine's Tower. 

Make sure you also wander down Strada Republicii which is the city's lively main street.

However, one of the most popular things to do is to take the cable car or hike up to Mount Tâmpa.

The most famous hiking route up is the ‘the Knight's Road’ which dates back to the days of the citadel making it the oldest route to the summit.

Not only is there a Hollywood-like ‘BRASOV’ sign at the top, but Mount Tâmpa is also home to golden eagles, grey wolves, brown bears and Eurasian lynxes. 

9. Venture back in time at Cetatea Făgărașului

It’s thought that Cetatea Făgărașului began as a wooden fortification in the 12th century, until it was destroyed. 

Then throughout the 15th century, Cetatea Făgărașului took on the form of a walled fortress to protect from invaders. 

The fortress's position was incredibly strategic, as it was located halfway along the trade route between Sibiu and Braşov, and also within the vicinity of Wallachia. 

It has also had several uses over the years varying from a garrison for the Romanian army, a camp for white Russians and a prison for political prisoners. 

Today, Cetatea Făgărașului is a museum that houses interesting exhibitions, and various artefacts including roman items, folk art and medieval weapons. It’s a great spot to visit if you are interested in learning about Romania's history.

10. Visit the traditional, authentic village of Viscri 

Viscri is a very well preserved Saxon village located in the centre of Transylvania. 

Some of the popular things to do in Viscri include eating traditional dishes, staying in an old Saxon house and making the most of the cycling trails that run around the village. 

However, the most famous attraction in the village is the Viscri Fortified Church.

The church forms part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site that is named ‘villages with fortified churches in Transylvania’. The church is the most popular attraction in the village, with plenty of iconic areas to see.

While visiting Viscri Church, make sure you head to the Holy Font, the Church Museum and the Tower which gives an amazing view of the village.

If you are wondering where to go in Romania, then make sure Viscri is on your list. 

11. Take a trip to the Sighişoara Citadel

Sighişoara Citadel is the only inhabited medieval fortress in Southeast Europe, and is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site ‘ the Historic centre of Sighişoara ’.  

It’s one of only seven Saxon walled cities in Romania, which were all built at a similar time during the 12th century. 

There is a lot of history located within this spot, as the citadel has experienced many tragic moments throughout time. This includes the Mongal invasion, various fires, rebellions, witch trials and executions. 

Today, however, Sighişoara Citadel is a place full of charm, colour and beauty. Once you step through the gates and wander down the cobbled streets you will be transported back in time. 

There are plenty of incredible sights to see here including the famous clock tower, the Scholars Stairs, the torture museum and the ‘alleged’ birthplace of Vlad the Impaler. 

Sighişoara is one of the best places in Romania to visit and is a must whilst travelling through the country. 

12. Discover an underground funfair in a salt mine: Salina Turda

Salina Turda is the world’s most spectacular underground formation that has been shaped by people. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Romania, and upon entering it isn’t hard to see why. 

It’s thought that salt was first extracted here during the Middle Ages from 1075 to the early 20th century. 

However, one of the most interesting facts about this place? It’s estimated that salt from the turda salt mine could cover the salt required for the entire planet for the next 60 years! 

After opening to the public in 1992, Salina Turda now attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors every year for a very unique reason.

There is an underground funfair located within the salt mine, that has mini golf, ping pong tables and a bowling alley.

It’s also possible to hire a boat to go round the underground lake, sit on a ferris wheel or visit the amphitheatre.

Due to its unique geographical setting, the beautiful salt formations and clean, purified air, it’s no wonder so many people love this site.

When it comes to hidden beautiful places in Romania, Salina Turda is right at the top of the list. 

13. Scărişoara Glacier Cave

Scărişoara Ice Cave is home to the biggest underground glacier in Romania and the second biggest in Southeastern Europe. 

It’s considered to be one of the natural wonders in Romania and was first mentioned in 1863 by Austrian Geographer Arnold Schmidl.

The Scărişoara Ice Cave is estimated to have formed around 3,500 years ago when this area was covered by glaciers.

What’s even more interesting is that although the cave was first mentioned in 1863, the exact date when the cave was first discovered by humans is unknown meaning it could have been discovered centuries before. 

Only certain parts of the cave are open to tourists and that includes the Big Hall, the Church and the entrance shaft. Access to the other chambers is reserved for scientists only. 

14. Bánffy Castle

Bánffy Castle has many architectural features including Renaissance, Baroque, Neoclassical and Gothic styles. The castle has undergone many different construction phases and is owned by the Banffy family. 

Between the years 1437 and 1543, the Banffy family built this castle and lived here up until 1944. At this point, they were evacuated by the Germans who turned it into a military hospital. 

Towards the end of the war, the castle was burned by retreating German troops, and then suffered neglect after the war when it was looted for building materials, and vandalised. 

However, Bánffy Castle has been included on the World Monuments Watch and it’s expected that the castle complex will be completely restored by 2026. 

In 2012, the Transylvania Trust established the Electric Castle Music Festival, where some of the revenue helps to support the conservation work. 

15. Admire the beauty and backdrop of Sibiu

The city of Sibiu dates back to the 12th century and is nicknamed ‘the city of eyes’, due to the roofs here which look like they have multiple eyes. 

There looks to be a clear division in Sibiu, and that is down to the Saxon history of the city. The Saxons made a division between the lower town and the upper town, based on the citizens class.

The upper town would be for more affluent citizens and the elite, while the lower town would be for merchants and peasants.

Connecting the two are a labyrinth of stairways, passages and alleys.

Some of the most popular attractions in Sibiu include the ASTRA Museum of Traditional Folk Civilisation, the Sibiu Lutheran Cathedral and the Catholica Basilica. 

Simply wandering around this magical city is a must. Allow yourself to get lost in its picturesque streets and narrow alleyways. 

When is the best time to visit Romania?

Romania is a great country to visit, no matter which time you choose to visit. However, the climate varies throughout the year and the best time to visit will depend on what you're hoping to do in the country. 

In springtime, the temperatures start to warm up, although May is notorious for having lots of rainfall so it’s important to be well prepared. 

The summer months of June, July and August attract plenty of crowds as temperatures can reach up to 29ºC.

However, the popular tourist spots can get incredibly busy during this period. 

Autumn in Romania is beautiful with bright fall colours, warm temperatures and fewer crowds. 

The winter season in Romania can be incredibly chilly depending on which area you visit. Some regions can experience temperatures of around -6ºC, and plenty of snow. This is of course perfect if you want to get involved with winter sports. 

In general, the best time to visit Romania is between September and October.

This is when the crowds are thinner, temperatures are milder but still warm and the fall colours are beautiful at this time of year. 

Getting around Romania

Getting around Romania is incredibly simple due to their extensive and reliable public transport network. 

Travelling by train is one of the most popular options as every major city or town in Romania has a train station.

The trains travel long distances across the country, and there is the option of taking overnight sleeper trains depending on your destination. 

Buses are a great choice if you are travelling within cities, but a lot of routes don’t cover inter-city travel. This is where Maxi-taxis come in. They are small bus-like vehicles that are independently operated and are used to travel outside of the city and to other areas. 

Whilst exploring Bucharest, you will also have the pleasure of taking the metro. It makes getting around the city very easy and is extremely cheap. 

In our opinion, if you want to make the most of travelling to this beautiful country, then we would recommend hiring a campervan. 

OR convert your own like we did and travel around in it!

There are plenty of campsites to choose from across Romania but something even better?

Wild camping and standing free with a motorhome are legal, which will save you plenty of money on the road and you'll be able to stay in some amazing locations.

There's also the option to hire a car in Romania !

How long do you need to visit Romania?

There are so many incredible places in Romania to visit, that we would recommend a minimum of 10 days.

However, the country is incredibly large and even 10 days would mean rushing your time. 

If you want to see the best this country has to offer, we would recommend spending between 2 to 3 weeks exploring Romania.

That allows you to visit a variety of destinations, whilst also being able to take your time in each place. 

Final thoughts

If you are planning to visit Romania, you won’t be disappointed.

There are so many incredible things to do in this country like visiting 12th century Saxon villages, driving the Transfăgărășan Highway and exploring Bran Stoker's famous Dracula's Castle.

If you aren’t sure of the best way to get around, we always recommend hiring a campervan if that’s possible for you.

It’s one of the best and cheapest ways to see a country, and you aren’t restricted to public transport timetables.

It means you truly get to see the best of Romania.

If you're interested in seeing more areas of Eastern Europe, then check out Montenegro for some more amazing sites.

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Home » Travel Guides » Romania » 15 Best Things to Do in Brașov (Romania)

15 Best Things to Do in Brașov (Romania)

If this intoxicating city in the Southern Carpathians has a German air there’s a good reason. In the Middle Ages Brașov was developed and settled by Saxons invited to settle here by Hungarian Kings. Tax exemptions allowed German merchants to build their fortunes, trading with both Western Europe and the Ottoman Empire which was on Brașov’s doorstep. That explains the grandeur of Council Square in the centre, as well as the Gothic Church for the city’s Lutheran congregation.

The charming Old Town is set off by mountainous landscapes, with one dominating peak, Mount Tâmpa, linked by cable car, while there’s also a up-and-coming winter sport resort nearby at Poiana Brașov.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Brașov :

1. Piața Sfatului (Council Square)

A place of trade and fairs from the middle of the 14th century, now this wide open space is somewhere to pause and look south to the vast bulk of Mount Tâmpa.

The plaza is traced by historic painted facades of houses once belonging to the city’s guilds, as well as monuments like the Black Church and the Orthodox Cathedral.

Many of the houses are now restaurants and cafes with terraces sprawling onto the square.

On the south side is the arcaded Merchants’ House from the mid-16th century, which used to be a market building and has been converted into a shopping arcade.

A great time to be on Council Square is in December for the Christmas Market, when everything is in lights and there’s an enormous tree.

2. Biserica Neagră (Black Church)

Seen as one of Eastern Europe’s greatest works of Gothic architecture, the Black Church was constructed by Brașov’s German community during the 15th century.

In the 16th century Lutheran services took the place of Catholic ones, a switch that has persisted to this day.

Just outside is a statue of Johannes Honter, the Transylvanian Saxon humanist who brought Lutheranism to the region.

Don’t miss the 15th-century sculpture on the northern facade, particularly the bas-relief of Jesus in the Second Temple of Jerusalem.

And from the same period inside are brocaded vestments, chalices, a baptismal font and a fresco depicting the Annunciation.

3. Casa Sfatului (Council Hall)

Hard to miss on Council Square is the 15th-century town hall, which actually started life as a Medieval watchtower.

The town hall went up in the 15th century, and had to be modified because of natural calamities and then a Habsburg invasion in the 1600s, leaving it with a blend of earlier Gothic and later Baroque architecture.

Since the 1950s the Council Hall has hosted the County Museum of History, which has an assortment of Iron Age tools, Roman items from nearby forts, Medieval ceramics, antique weapons, pharmaceutical artefacts, traditional handicrafts, coins and more.

4. Mount Tâmpa

Rising 400 metres over the south of the Old Town, to a maximum height of 960, the wedge-like Mount Tâmpa is an ever-present part of Brașov’s landscape.

Keen walkers will be itching to conquer this forest-covered limestone peak, once defended by a 13th-century Teutonic citadel and with distant views of the Burzenland region at the top.

The Knights’ Road, the oldest of many routes to the summit, goes back to the days of the citadel and snakes past old crumbling walls.

The mountain is also a nature reserve, providing a habitat for gray wolves, golden eagles, brown bears and Eurasian lynxes.

And if the slopes look a bit too demanding there’s always a cable car, shuttling to the top in three minutes and with a panoramic restaurant at its upper station.

5. Bastionul Țesătorilor (Weavers’ Bastion)

Under Mount Tâmpa on the south side of the Old Town is the most complete remnant of Brașov’s old fortifications.

In the 1500s the city’s guilds were responsible for looking after the city defences, and this bastion was in the hands of the weavers, keeping attackers at bay while also giving the weavers somewhere to store their wares.

The earliest architecture here is from the 1420s and an extra floor was added in the second half of the 16th century.

There are two guard towers, and indomitable walls with openings for cannons and throwing oil at would-be attackers.

The museum within has details about the Weavers’ Guild, Ottoman weapons, guns and a Hungarian-era scale model from 1896, depicting the city as it would have looked in 1600.

6. Strada Republicii

Setting off diagonally from Council Square is Brașov’s lively main street, which is completely pedestrianised.

Over the last decade Strada Republicii has been given a facelift, and nearly all of the turn-of-the-century facades have been restored.

As you go you’ll see passageways shooting off, leading onto beautiful hidden courtyards.

Keep your eyes peeled for early-20th-century German inscriptions on some of the buildings.

In summer there’s an almost unbroken line of bar and restaurant terraces so there’s no excuse not to linger for a few minutes and watch the crowds.

7. Prima Școală Românească (First Romanian School)

In the village-like Șchei District on Brașov’s southwestern outskirts is a site of real value for Romanian culture.

Here in the grounds of the 16th-century Church of St Nicholas (Biserica Sfântul Nicolae) is the first school ever to teach courses in Romanian.

These first took place in 1583 and the school was in use all the way up to 1941, before becoming a museum not long after the war.

There are more than 4,000 books and 30,000 historic documents at the museum, which also has Romania’s first printing press.

Guided by an elderly caretaker, you’ll get to see the first Romanian bible, as well as volumes of valuable first editions.

The oldest document of all is a manuscript dating to the 11th century.

8. Synagogue

There has been a Jewish community in Brașov since 1807 when its first members were permitted to settle in the city.

By the start of the Second World War the community had grown to more than 4,000, a far cry from the 230 residents today.

Brașov’s Orthodox Synagogue fell victim to Ion Antonescu’s dictatorship in the Second World War, but the Neolog Synagogue is still here.

With a neo-Moorish and neo-Byzantine design and impressive scale, the building testifies to the vitality of Brașov’s Jewish population when it was built at the turn of the century.

The architect was the Hungarian Lipót Baumhorn who designed more than 20 synagogues in Austria-Hungary.

9. Strada Sforii (Rope Street)

A quirky detour, Strada Sforii not far from the Șchei Gate is one of the narrowest streets in Europe.

At a minimum of 111 centimetres, this 80-metre passageway dates back to the 1600s and is only beaten for narrowness by Spreuerhofstraße in Reutlingen, Germany and Parliament Street in Exeter, England.

It’s impossible to spread your arms as you squeeze down this shadowy passage, so you won’t be shocked that Strada Sforii wasn’t originally designed for everyday use, but as a route for fire-fighters in the Old Town.

10. Bran Castle

A day trip not to be missed from Brașov, Bran Castle is under half an hour to the southwest.

This 14th-century fortress is often connected to Count Dracula and his real life 15th-century inspiration Vlad the Impaler.

And while this isn’t strictly true as Vlad the Impaler didn’t have much to do with the castle, the true history of the building is exciting enough.

A romantic tangle of towers built onto a rocky promontory over a gorge, it was a bulwark against the Ottoman Empire in the late Middle Ages and was controlled by a succession of Hungarian Kings.

When Transylvania was ceded to Romania after the First World War it became a favourite residence for Marie of Romania, and the museum inside has many of the queen’s possessions.

Recommended tour : Dracula Castle & Brasov: Private Tour

11. Pietrele lui Solomon (Solomon’s Rocks)

In the southwestern Șchei district on a tributary of the Șcheiu River you’ll come to a strange karst formation.

Divided in two by a stream is a pair of vast, sheer rocks, steeped in local folk tales about a Hungarian king or Solomonars, dragon-riding wizards who control the rain.

At the start of the 20th century excavations on the site found vestiges of a fortress that had been manned since Neolithic times.

Today it’s a favoured picnic and barbecue spot, while climbers are a common slight on the vertiginous slopes.

And from here, a bike trail weaves through the mountains to the nearby ski resort of Poiana Brașov.

12. Turnul Alb (White Tower)

On a spur defending the west side of the Old Town is the semicircular White Tower, which forms a pair with the nearby Black Tower.

You’ll have no trouble identifying this bright whitewashed bastion on its high perch from Council Square.

Raised in the last decades of the 15th-century this structure was maintained by Brașov’s tile-makers’ guild and at five storeys was the tallest of all the city defences.

To keep would-be attackers out, its entrance was several metres from the ground and needed a ladder.

There’s a wooden staircase inside, which you can climb to stand behind the crenellations and view the Old Town against the backdrop of Mount Tâmpa.

13. Poiana Brașov

From mid-November to mid-March the peaks around Brașov are coated with a permanent layer of snow.

But it’s only recently that this snow-sure climate has been harnessed for winter sports.

Poiana Brașov is a ski resort under 15 kilometres from the city proper that has gone through big investment in the 2010s, expanding its skiable area to 80 hectares and creating 24 kilometres of pistes.

Nearly all of its slopes now have snow-making facilities, ensuring a 120-day season, while the nos.

20 and 100 buses provide quick transfers from the centre of Brașov to the resort.

In warmer weather the four mountains encircling Poiana Brașov are a hiker’s dream, with sweeping meadow, lofty vantage points and many hectares of fresh oak and hazel forest.

14. Libearty Bear Sanctuary

Fair to say that bears haven’t always been well-treated in Central Romania.

But after the country joined the EU in 2007 its zoos became subject to European laws for animal husbandry.

As many smaller zoos couldn’t comply with these new standards, this sanctuary not far southwest of Brașov swelled with newly rescued inhabitants.

The Libearty Bear Sanctuary has 70 European brown bears living in 27 hectares of enclosures in deciduous woodland, providing ample tree cover, space to hibernate and lots of water in the form of streams and pools.

15. Parc Aventura

On Brașov’s southeast outskirts is a family-oriented attraction with ladders, rope nets, bridges and zip-lines between trees.

Children under eight years old can take part on four purple courses, on which they’ll be permanently attached by carabiner to a safety rope for maximum security.

Older climbers can tackle eleven different courses, ranging in difficulty from yellow for beginners to a single black route for experts who need an extra hit of adrenalin.

And if that’s not enough, there are also side activities like a 300-metre zip-line crossing a lake, and a literal leap of faith from a height of 16 metres.

15 Best Things to Do in Brașov (Romania):

• Piața Sfatului (Council Square)
• Biserica Neagră (Black Church)
• Casa Sfatului (Council Hall)
• Mount Tâmpa
• Bastionul Țesătorilor (Weavers' Bastion)
• Strada Republicii
• Prima Școală Românească (First Romanian School)
• Strada Sforii (Rope Street)
• Bran Castle
• Pietrele lui Solomon (Solomon's Rocks)
• Turnul Alb (White Tower)
• Poiana Brașov
• Libearty Bear Sanctuary
• Parc Aventura