Romania Travel Information

Romania is a country that offers a unique blend of history, culture and nature. From the charming medieval towns of Transylvania, to the stunning painted monasteries of Bucovina, the Gothic castles and the Danube Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, this country has something for everyone. Visitors can explore the vibrant capital city of Bucharest, with its stunning architecture and rich history, or take a trip to Bran Castle, the legendary home of Count Dracula. Whether you're interested in outdoor activities, cultural experiences or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, Romania is a destination that should not be missed. In this list, we have curated the top 10 things to do in Romania, that will make your trip an unforgettable one.

1. Visit Bucharest

The capital city of Romania is a must-see destination, known for its beautiful architecture, rich history and vibrant culture. Some must-see attractions include the Old Town, the Palace of Parliament and the Romanian Athenaeum.

2. Visit Transylvania

This region of Romania is known for its medieval towns and fortified churches, as well as for being the home of the legend of Count Dracula. Some must-see attractions include the cities of Sighisoara, Brasov and Sibiu.

3. Visit Bran Castle

Often referred to as Dracula's Castle, this 14th-century fortress is located in the Carpathian Mountains and is a popular tourist attraction in Romania.

4. Visit the Peles Castle

This stunning Neo-Renaissance castle located in the Carpathian Mountains, was the summer residence of the Romanian royal family and is now a museum.

5. Visit the Merry Cemetery

Located in the small village of Sapanta, this cemetery is known for its colorful, hand-painted tombstones that depict the lives of the deceased in a humorous manner.

6. Visit the painted monasteries of Bucovina

These UNESCO World Heritage sites, located in the northern part of Romania, are known for their intricate exterior frescoes that depict religious scenes.

7. Visit the Danube Delta

This UNESCO World Heritage site is the second largest river delta in Europe and is known for its diverse wildlife and picturesque landscapes.

8. Visit the Corvin Castle

This Gothic-style castle located in the city of Hunedoara is one of the largest and best-preserved castles in Romania.

9. Visit the Merry Cemetery

Located in the small village of Sapanta, this cemetery is known for its colorful, hand-painted tombstones that depict the lives of the deceased in a humorous manner.

10. Visit the Black Sea Coast

This region of Romania is known for its beautiful beaches and resorts, as well as for its lively nightlife and delicious seafood.

Climate

Romania has a temperate-continental climate, with four distinct seasons. The summers are warm and the winters can be cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing. The country experiences an average of around 2,500 hours of sunshine per year. Romania is known for having a high amount of rainfall, particularly in the western and northern regions of the country.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Romania depends on what you're looking to do and see. The high season for tourism runs from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the chance of rain is low. This is also when the majority of festivals and events take place.

If you're looking to experience the winter sports, the low season is from December to March, with the best snow conditions in the Carpathian Mountains and the ski resorts.

If you're looking to avoid the crowds and enjoy more affordable prices, the shoulder seasons (April, May, October and November) can be a good option. This is also the best time to visit if you're interested in hiking or exploring the countryside, as the temperature is mild and the scenery is beautiful.

Overall, the best time to visit Romania would be from June to September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the chance of rain is low. But if you're looking for fewer crowds and more affordable prices, the shoulder seasons, from April to May and October to November, are best.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Hotels

Romania offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly hotels. Many of the hotels in Romania are government-run, and they vary widely in terms of quality and facilities. Some of the newer and more luxurious hotels are in the major cities and tourist destinations like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and Timisoara.

Guesthouses and Bed and Breakfasts

Guesthouses and bed and breakfasts are a popular option for accommodation in Romania, particularly in rural areas and small towns. They offer a unique and authentic experience of Romanian culture and lifestyle, and they are often more affordable than hotels.

Vacation Rentals

Vacation rentals, such as apartments and villas, are becoming increasingly popular in Romania. These can be a great option for families or groups of friends who want more space and privacy. Many vacation rental options are available online, such as Airbnb and Booking.com.

Campsites

Camping is a common option for accommodation in Romania, particularly in the summertime and in the mountains areas. There are several designated campsites in the country, both in the countryside and in the mountain, where you can rent a tent or a cabin, and enjoy the nature.

Overall, the best way to get around Romania will depend on your travel plans and budget. Hotels and guesthouses are the most popular options for accommodation, with a wide range of choices available. Vacation rentals and camping are also an option, and are particularly popular in summer and in the mountain regions.

Public Transportation

Romania has an extensive public transportation network, which includes buses, trains, and trams. Public transportation is relatively cheap and efficient, but it can be crowded, especially during peak hours. The main forms of public transportation are the state-run buses and trains, which connect major cities and towns.

Taxis

Taxis are widely available in Romania's major cities, and they can be a convenient option for getting around. However, it is important to note that the quality and safety of the vehicles can vary, and prices are often negotiated rather than being based on a meter.

Cars and Bikes

Renting a car or bike is another option for getting around Romania. This can be a great way to explore the country's rural areas and have more flexibility on your trip. However, it's important to keep in mind that driving in Romania can be challenging, with poorly maintained roads and unpredictable driving habits.

Air travel

Air travel is another option to move within the country. Romania has several airports, such as Henri Coandă International Airport in Bucharest, and it is connected to major destinations around the world. It also has regular domestic flights between major cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara and Iasi.

Overall, the best way to get around Romania will depend on your travel plans and budget. Public transportation is relatively cheap and efficient, but it can be crowded.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.