Romania Travel Guide
Top Places to Visit
- Bran Castle – Legendary home of Dracula located in Transylvania.
- Palace of the Parliament – One of the largest administrative buildings in the world.
- Sighișoara – A well-preserved medieval town and UNESCO site.
- Transfăgărășan Highway – A scenic mountain road with breathtaking views.
- Maramureș – Known for traditional wooden churches and rural charm.
Language & Culture
Romanian is the official language. Romania has a rich cultural heritage combining Latin, Balkan, and Eastern European influences. Folk music, dance, and traditional crafts play a major role, especially in rural areas. Hospitality and family are highly valued.
Transportation, Currency & Food
- Transportation: Trains and buses connect cities; taxis and ride-sharing apps are common.
- Currency: Romanian Leu (RON).
- Food: Try sarmale (stuffed cabbage), mămăligă (polenta), ciorbă (sour soup), and cozonac (sweet bread).
Best Season & Entry Points
| Season | Weather | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| May – September | Warm and sunny | Ideal for sightseeing and hiking |
| December – February | Cold and snowy | Great for winter sports in the Carpathians |
Fly into Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP) near Bucharest.
Estimated Budget (Per Day/Traveler)
| Category | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $25 – $100 | Guesthouses to 4-star hotels |
| Meals | $10 – $30 | Local eateries and restaurants |
| Transport | $5 – $15 | Public transport and local travel |
| Activities | $10 – $50 | Entrance fees, tours, cultural events |
Packing List Suggestions
- Comfortable walking shoes and warm layers
- Travel adapter (Europlug)
- Umbrella or raincoat (for spring/autumn)
- Reusable water bottle and sunscreen
- Travel insurance documents and a phrasebook
20 Basic Language Tips
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Bună | Hello |
| Ce faci? | How are you? |
| Mulțumesc | Thank you |
| Te rog | Please |
| Scuzați-mă | Excuse me |
| La revedere | Goodbye |
| Nu înțeleg | I don’t understand |
| Unde este toaleta? | Where is the bathroom? |
| Cât costă? | How much is it? |
| Nota, vă rog | The bill, please |
| Da | Yes |
| Nu | No |
| Bună dimineața | Good morning |
| Bună seara | Good evening |
| Noapte bună | Good night |
| Ajutor! | Help! |
| Îmi pare rău | I’m sorry |
| Mă numesc… | My name is… |
| Sunt turist | I am a tourist |
| Vorbiți engleză? | Do you speak English? |
Health & Safety
- Tap water is safe in most cities, but bottled water is preferred in rural areas.
- Emergency services can be reached at 112.
- European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is accepted for EU travelers.
- Basic pharmacies and hospitals are available in urban centers.
Festivals & Holidays
- George Enescu Festival – Classical music event held every two years in Bucharest.
- Sighişoara Medieval Festival – Celebration of medieval heritage with costumes and parades.
- Christmas & Easter – Celebrated with traditional foods, music, and folk rituals.
Sustainable Tourism
- Support local artisans and small guesthouses in Transylvania and Maramureș.
- Participate in eco-tourism and guided nature tours in the Carpathians.
- Respect protected sites such as UNESCO churches and natural reserves.
- Minimize waste and use refillable water bottles when traveling.
