Things To Do
in Romania
Romania, located in Southeastern Europe, is a country rich in history and natural beauty, boasting medieval castles like Bran, often associated with the Dracula legend, and picturesque landscapes such as the Carpathian Mountains. Its vibrant capital, Bucharest, is known for its wide, tree-lined boulevards and the impressive Palace of the Parliament, one of the largest administrative buildings in the world.
Romania also offers diverse cultural experiences, from the painted monasteries of Bukovina and traditional wooden churches of Maramureș to the unique biodiversity of the Danube Delta.
- "Bună ziua" - Good afternoon
- "Ce mai faci?" - How are you?
- "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
- "Te rog" - Please
- "La revedere" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Visit the iconic Palace of the Parliament and marvel at its grand architecture. Don't forget to stroll through the nearby Cismigiu Gardens for a breath of fresh air.
Head to the Romanian Athenaeum, a stunning concert hall, to soak in the cultural vibe. Enjoy lunch at a traditional Romanian restaurant serving sarmale.
Stroll down Lipscani Street, lined with lively bars and restaurants. Sample some local wines and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.
Depart for Bran Castle, famously linked to the Dracula legend. Explore the castle's rooms and learn about its intriguing history.
Visit the charming town of Brașov, where you can admire medieval architecture. Grab lunch at a cafe with outdoor seating overlooking the Black Church.
Climb Tâmpa Mountain for panoramic views of Brașov at sunset. Dine at a local bistro and try the traditional mici sausages.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Beautiful natural landscapes including the Carpathian Mountains and the Black Sea
- Affordable cost of living compared to Western Europe
- Growing economy with opportunities in technology and tourism
- Delicious and diverse culinary traditions
- Friendly and hospitable people
- A member of the European Union, providing access to broader markets
- Challenges with infrastructure development and maintenance
- Corruption and bureaucratic inefficiencies
- Economic disparities between urban and rural areas
- Low wages relative to Western European standards
- Environmental issues, including pollution and deforestation
- Ongoing demographic challenges, including population decline
- Limited access to healthcare in remote areas
Best Activities in Romania
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity of the Carpathians.
Discover the underground wonders of Romania in the Apuseni Mountains.
Challenge yourself with a variety of climbing routes in this scenic gorge.
Enjoy the beautiful countryside and traditional villages while cycling in Maramures.
Observe diverse bird species and other wildlife in the unique wetlands of Danube Delta.
Tours
Uncover the best of Romania with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Romania
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for stunning vistas and the iconic Sphinx and Babele rock formations.
A beautiful neo-renaissance castle surrounded by picturesque mountain scenery.
Offers breathtaking views as it winds through the Carpathian Mountains.
A natural wonder with impressive rock formations and lush scenery.
Food in Romania
Romania Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cabbage rolls stuffed with a mixture of minced pork, rice, and spices, slow-cooked to perfection. These are a must-try and can be found in traditional restaurants across Romania.
Must-Try!
A delicious cornmeal porridge, often served as a side dish with stews and meat. Try it at local eateries or as a street food option in various regions.
Also known as mititei, these are grilled skinless sausages made from a blend of beef, lamb, and pork, seasoned with spices. You'll find them at street food stalls and barbecue spots.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Romania better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in Bucharest, Obor Market is a bustling place offering a wide array of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and street food. It's an excellent spot to savor local flavors and indulge in street food specialties.
This market in central Bucharest is a great place to sample regional cheeses, meats, and pastries. Numerous street food vendors line the market, offering an authentic experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Romania, it is customary to greet people with a handshake, particularly when meeting someone for the first time. Direct eye contact is seen as a sign of respect during greetings.
Romanians value personal space and generally stand closer together when conversing than in many Western cultures. It's important to be mindful of this and respect others' personal space.
Politeness is highly valued in Romanian culture, and it's common to address others using formal titles and last names, especially in professional settings. It's important to use 'Dvs.' (the formal form of 'you') when addressing someone unless invited to use the informal 'tu' form.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Romania with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Romania
Ensure a smooth experience
In Romania, tipping is commonly practiced in restaurants, bars, taxis, and for other services. It is customary to leave a tip of about 5-10% of the total bill, but tipping is not mandatory.
Payment in Romania is commonly done using cash or debit/credit cards. Many businesses accept card payments, especially in urban areas. Contactless payment methods are also gaining popularity in Romania.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Romania.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Romania, as the weather is mild and the countryside comes to life with blooming flowers and green landscapes. This is also a good time for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring the countryside.
Summer is peak tourist season in Romania, with warm weather and plenty of outdoor events and festivals. It's a great time for visiting the Black Sea coast and enjoying outdoor activities such as hiking and camping.
Autumn is a beautiful time to visit Romania, with the changing colors of the leaves and harvest festivals. It's a great time for exploring the countryside and enjoying the local food and wine.
Winter in Romania can be cold and snowy, making it a great time for winter sports enthusiasts. The mountains offer skiing and snowboarding opportunities, and the holiday markets in cities like Brasov and Sibiu are charming.
Romania at Night
Hiking in Romania
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Part of the Southern Carpathians, the Făgăraș Mountains are known for their stunning peaks, beautiful glacial lakes, and challenging trails, including the famous ridge trail along Moldoveanu Peak, the highest mountain in Romania.
This national park features dramatic limestone ridges, rich in biodiversity, with well-marked hiking trails that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, perfect for both beginners and experienced hikers.
Home to the Bucegi Mountains, this area offers a variety of trails ranging from easy to difficult, with highlights such as the Sphinx and Babele rock formations and panoramic views of the Carpathians.
A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Retezat is renowned for its glacial lakes and rugged terrain, featuring numerous trails that cater to all levels of hikers, and a diversity of flora and fauna.
Known as the 'Olympus of Romania,' Ceahlău offers a mix of easy walks and challenging ascents, with stunning views and cultural significance, making it a popular destination for hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Romania through these rare and unique activities.
Airports
How to reach Romania by plane.
Located in Bucharest, it is the largest and busiest airport in Romania.
Serves Cluj-Napoca and is a significant airport for domestic and international flights.
Located in Timișoara, it is one of the main international airports in western Romania.
Serves Iași and is a key airport in the northeastern region of Romania.
Located in Sibiu, it primarily serves the Transylvania region.
Serves Bacău and offers flights to various European destinations.
Located near Constanța, it is an important airport for Black Sea tourism.
Serves Oradea and connects to a few international destinations.
Located in Sibiu, enhances connectivity with flights to key European cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Romania, making up approximately 88% of the population.
The largest minority group in Romania, primarily located in the Transylvania region, comprising about 6.1% of the population.
A significant ethnic minority in Romania, constituting around 3% of the total population, known for their diverse cultures and traditions.
An ethnic minority in Romania, mainly residing in the northern regions, accounting for approximately 0.3% of the population.
Historically significant in Romania, now a small minority, making up about 0.2% of the population.
Includes various smaller groups such as Russians, Bulgarians, and Greeks, collectively representing a small percentage of the population.
The Soul of Romania
Discover the essence of Romania through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Romania, with a rich history and passionate fanbase. The Romanian Liga 1 features several well-known clubs, and the national team has had significant participation in international tournaments.
Romania has a strong tradition in gymnastics, particularly artistic gymnastics, producing world-class athletes such as Nadia Comaneci, who achieved the first perfect 10 in Olympic history.
Handball enjoys widespread popularity in Romania, with both men's and women's teams achieving success in European competitions. The women's team has been particularly successful, winning several medals in international championships.
Rugby has been growing in popularity in Romania, with the national team, known as 'The Oaks', competing in various European competitions and qualifiers for the Rugby World Cup.
Basketball is also favored in Romania, with professional leagues and a national team that participates in international competitions. The sport has a growing following, especially among the youth.
Volleyball is played at both amateur and professional levels in Romania, with various clubs competing in national leagues and the Romanian national teams participating in European tournaments.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Romanian cuisine often features meat prominently, many restaurants and cafes in urban areas provide vegetarian and vegan alternatives, especially in the capital city, Bucharest. Look for establishments that focus on international or modern cuisine for diverse options.
Increasing awareness of gluten-free diets has led to more restaurants accommodating these needs. Urban areas and tourist destinations are likely to offer gluten-free options, often clearly marked on the menu. However, it's advisable to communicate dietary restrictions clearly to ensure a safe dining experience.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Romania with these cultural adventures.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Romania.