ROMANIA
TRAVEL GUIDE
Unlock the Charms of Romania: A Journey Through Timeless Landscapes, Rich History, and Vibrant Culture, Beckoning Travelers to Explore its Hidden Gems, from the Misty Peaks of the Carpathian Mountains to the Medieval Streets of Transylvanian Towns. Discover a Land of Diverse Heritage and Breathtaking Natural Beauty, Featuring Ancient Castles, Pristine Forests, and Lively Cities Rich in Art and Festivities. Romania Offers an Unmatched Travel Experience for Those Seeking Adventure, Cultural Immersion, and Memories to Last a Lifetime
Top Things To See & Do In Romania
SAXON VILLAGES
BRASOV
ROMA VILLAGES
SIGHISOARA
Romania Travel Map
Need To Know - Romania Travel Guide
- Romania is a relatively safe, cheap and easy country to travel in however normal safety precautions should be taken.
- The Romanian Visa policy aligns with the Schengen Visa Policy. See the VISA tab for further information.
- Some English is spoken in the main cities of Romania however do not count on it in the more rural areas. It is recommended (and polite) to learn a few basic words.
- Romania has a large number of stray and abandoned dogs, it is advised to avoid contact with these dogs to avoid the risk of rabies. Also, if hiking be on the lookout for dogs guarding flocks of sheep, they will have horizontally-hanging sticks under their necks. Stay away from these dogs as they will become aggressive if they perceive you as a threat to the flock they are protecting
- If hiking or wild camping in remote mountains and forests be aware of bears and wolves of which Romania has many..
Romania weather is very diverse ranging from extremely hot in the summer to very cold in the winter.
High Season (June to August)
- Europeans are all on holiday and the Black sea plus castles, and other tourist attractions are in full swing and heaving with visitors.
- The weather is very hot in July and August.
Shoulder Season (April t/ May & September / October)
- Spring and Autumn see milder weather and less crowds.
- Some tourist attraction are operating at less hours.
- The Danube delta is popular with birdwatchers.
Low Season (November to March)
- Weather is cold with snow.
- Ski resorts are busy are busy mid December to early March.
Romanian Currency
The currency in Romania is the Leu.
ATMs can be found in larger towns and cities. It is advisable to always carry a small amount of cash as not all eftpos machines accept foreign cards.
Romania Visa Policy
While not part of the Schengen Area Romania has a Visa Policy based on that of the Schengnen Area Visa Policy.
Nationals / Citizens from Schengen States have right of movement and entry without a visa but will need a passport as proof of identity.
The policy applies to the Schengen Area which is 22 E.U member states and 4 non E.U states which are part of the EFTA – Iceland, Liechenstein, Norway and Switzerland. Bulgaria, Cyprus, Croatia and Romania are not part of the Schengen Area but have visa policies based on Schengen acquis.
Schengen Visa Policy Map
| Schengen Area | |
| Other EU member states outside the Schengen Area but bound by the same visa policy and legally obliged to join the Area when they meet the criteria, and special territories of Schengen member states (freedom of movement in the Schengen Area) | |
| Members of the EU single market with independent visa policies (freedom of movement in the Schengen Area) | |
| Visa-free access to the Schengen states for short stays, usually 90 days in any 180-day period ( | |
| Visa required to enter the Schengen states, and to transit some Schengen states in some circumstance | |
| Visa required to transit any Schengen state | |
| Travel documents not accepted |
Schengen Area Map
| Member state | |
| Countries de facto participating | |
| Members of the EU legally obliged to join the Schengen area, but not yet members |
Source: Wikipedia
Romania has an excellent internal rail system with trains running to just about every town in the country.
Train
Romania has a extensive rail network throughout the country.The system is dated and often slow but is still the best way for long distance travel.
There are 3 types of trains in Romania.
- Regio (R) – Very cheap but also old, slow and uncomfortable. Best avoided if possible.
- InterRegio (IR) travelling on medium and longer routes the InterRegio is faster (although not fast) and some what more comfortable than the Regio particularly if you get the newer carriages.
- Intercity (IC). Faster and more comfortable Intercity trains travel between the larger cities. More expensive than the other train types.
Buy tickets are all rail stations or at CFR booking agencies (agentie de voiaj CFR) at most larger towns.
Bus
Buses are a cheap and inexpensive way to get around towns or between towns. Most towns and villages have a bus station (autogara) where tickets can be purchased.
What To Pack In Romania
What to pack for Romania is very dependent on when you will be travelling to the country and where you will be going. Summers are warm to hot but if travelling to the mountains a jacket or coat is advisable.
Winters are cold especially in the mountains so cold-weather gear will be needed.
It’s all about layering which allows you to add or loses clothing as needed
Packing List
Clothing
1 pair jeans – I know they are heavy and take ages to dry but I wear them constantly and find them comfortable
1 pair black travel type pants – Black pants are little smarter than jeans so good if going somewhere a little dressier. Mine is the lightweight fabric in the style of jean,
2 x pair of shorts. 1 denim and one lightweight travel fabric
2 x singlets – good for layering and sleeping in
4 x short sleeve cotton shirts, lightweight and breathable
1 x long sleeve sloppy joe.
1 x zip-up shell jacket
1 x lightweight raincoat – packable version that packs down into a small bag.
5 x socks
5 x underpants
2 x bras
Shoes
1 x pair walking or hiking shoes.
1 x pair slip on flats
1 x pair flip flops (great for hostel showers)
Toiletries
Shampoo & Conditioner
Bar of Soap
Deodorant
Razor
Tweezers
Brush / Comb
Hair Ties
Electronics
1 x Earbud headphones.Light and small,
1 x IPad
1 x 6S iPhone
Charging leads for above
2 x USB
1 x power bank
1 x Cable organiser which keeps everything tidy
1 x 14” laptop – we run a business so this is essential for us.
Photography
This year I have left behind my DSLR and lenses to travel only with a GoPro and a LUMIX TZ80. At the end of the day it came down to weight when travelling a long way and having to carry a pack – so let’s see how we go….
1 x GoPro Hero 5
2 x Spare GoPro Batteries
1 x LUMIX TZ80
Spare micro SD Cards
Other Stuff
1 x padlock
1 x headlight or torch
1 x Swiss knife
1 x medical kit
Ziplock bags
Romania Snapshot
Travelling to Romania
Romania, a country famed for its diverse landscapes ranging from deep forests and mountain ranges to serene villages and bustling cities, offers a unique travel experience in Eastern Europe. Travelers can explore the medieval castles of Transylvania, including the legendary Bran Castle, often linked to the Dracula myth. The scenic beauty of the Carpathian Mountains is perfect for hiking, while the Black Sea coastline offers beautiful beaches and resort towns like Constanța and Mamaia during summer. Transportation within Romania includes trains and buses, which are affordable and fairly reliable for getting around the country.
How to Plan a Trip to Romania
Planning a trip to Romania requires consideration of a few key aspects to ensure a smooth experience. Firstly, decide on the time of year to visit; spring and early autumn offer mild weather and fewer tourists. Booking flights into Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, or Timișoara will provide easy access to various parts of the country. It’s advisable to arrange accommodations in advance, especially if traveling to tourist hotspots. For those interested in history and culture, including several UNESCO World Heritage sites in your itinerary, like the Painted Monasteries and Sighișoara, is a must. Lastly, learning a few basic Romanian phrases can enhance your interaction with locals.
Romanian Food
Romanian cuisine is a rich amalgam of flavors influenced by numerous conquerors and neighbors. Staples like polenta (mămăligă) are often accompanied by meat dishes and vegetable stews. Romania is renowned for its hearty soups like ciorbă, which come in various forms including beef, chicken, and tripe. Sarmale (cabbage rolls filled with minced meats and rice) and mici (grilled minced meat rolls) are beloved national dishes that must be tried. For dessert, papanasi, a fried or boiled pastry topped with sour cream and jam, offers a sweet end to any meal. Romania’s wineries also offer excellent local wines, well worth tasting.
Culture and Religion
Romania’s culture is a tapestry of its history, from Roman colonization to Ottoman influence and its time as part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. This diverse heritage is evident in its architectural landmarks, traditional music, and festivals. The majority of Romanians are Orthodox Christians, and the country’s religious architecture, including numerous monasteries and churches, reflects this faith. Important cultural experiences include attending a live folklore dance performance or exploring the medieval towns that dot the landscape, offering a glimpse into the historical and architectural past of the country.
Safety and Dangers
Romania is generally a safe country for travelers. Common precautions should be taken against pickpocketing and petty theft, particularly in crowded areas and on public transport. It’s wise to avoid unlit areas at night and to keep valuables secure. While most visits are trouble-free, travelers should be aware of scams targeting tourists, particularly in Bucharest. The roads can be hazardous due to erratic driving behaviors, so renting a car might require some caution. Emergency services are reliable, with the European emergency number 112 available for immediate assistance.
