Europe · 26 Places · Best June-August
Romania captivates visitors with its medieval castles, fortified churches, and the legendary Dracula's Bran Castle. From the painted monasteries of Bucovina to the Danube Delta's wildlife and the vibrant streets of Bucharest, Romania offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and culture.
Romania captivates visitors with its medieval castles, fortified churches, and the legendary Dracula's Bran Castle. From the painted monasteries of Bucovina to the Danube Delta's wildlife and the vibrant streets of Bucharest, Romania offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and culture.
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
The 26 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
Perched dramatically on a cliff, Bran Castle is Romania's most famous fortress, linked to the Dracula legend. The 14th-century castle features Gothic towers, narrow staircases, and a museum showcasing royal collections. Surrounding the castle are charming craft markets and traditional Romanian restaurants.
The world's second-largest administrative building after the Pentagon, this colossal structure is a testament to Communist-era excess. Built by dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu, it contains 1,100 rooms with lavish marble, crystal chandeliers, and gold leaf decoration. Guided tours reveal the building's staggering scale and controversial history.
A Neo-Renaissance masterpiece nestled in the Carpathian Mountains, Peleș Castle served as the summer residence of Romanian royalty. The castle features 170 rooms adorned with German stained glass, Italian marble, and Moorish-style chambers. The surrounding gardens and mountain backdrop make it one of Europe's most beautiful castles.
Named the world's best driving road by Top Gear, this spectacular mountain route winds through the Făgăraș Mountains with hairpin turns, tunnels, and breathtaking vistas. Built as a strategic military route, it crosses the Carpathian Mountains at 2,034 meters elevation. The journey offers waterfalls, glacial lakes, and panoramic viewpoints.
This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of Europe's best-preserved medieval towns and the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler. Colorful 16th-century houses line cobblestone streets, while the iconic Clock Tower dominates the skyline. The fortified citadel remains inhabited, creating a living medieval atmosphere.
Europe's largest wetland and best-preserved delta hosts over 300 bird species and diverse wildlife. This UNESCO site features a maze of channels, floating reed islands, and traditional fishing villages. Boat tours reveal pelicans, cormorants, herons, and wild horses in pristine natural habitats.
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Five-star luxury in central Bucharest featuring elegant rooms, a rooftop pool, and world-class spa. Located near Old Town with easy access to Parliament Palace and major attractions. Exceptional service includes butler service, Michelin-quality dining, and executive lounge access.
Check rates on Booking.comComfortable mountain hotel with excellent access to Poiana Brașov ski slopes and hiking trails. Modern rooms, restaurant serving traditional food, and wellness center. Family-friendly atmosphere with reasonable prices and great mountain views.
Check rates on Booking.comPopular backpacker hostel in Bucharest Old Town with social atmosphere and clean facilities. Dorm rooms and private options, communal kitchen, and organized activities. Great place to meet fellow travelers while exploring Romania's capital.
Check rates on Booking.comBoutique luxury hotel in a restored Belle Époque mansion with individually designed suites. Personalized service, gourmet restaurant, and intimate atmosphere make this a romantic retreat. Art Nouveau details and antique furnishings create old-world elegance in the heart of Bucharest.
Check rates on Booking.comCafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Michelin-starred restaurant in Bucharest offering innovative takes on traditional Romanian cuisine. Chef Alexandru Dumitru creates artistic presentations using seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients. Intimate atmosphere with tasting menus showcasing Romania's culinary heritage reimagined.
Iconic 1879 beer house in Bucharest Old Town with spectacular Neo-Gothic interior. Stained glass, wood carvings, and live music create festive atmosphere. Traditional Romanian dishes and house-brewed beer. Tourist favorite with authentic character.
Historic beer hall in Bucharest serving traditional Romanian food and house beer. Lively atmosphere with live music, long communal tables, and affordable prices. Great for experiencing Romanian tavern culture.
Street vendors throughout Bucharest Old Town selling mici (grilled meat rolls) with mustard and bread. Authentic Romanian fast food experience, incredibly cheap, and delicious. Best late night after bars.
Third-wave coffee shop in Bucharest Old Town with expertly-crafted espresso drinks and pour-overs. Minimal interior, knowledgeable baristas, and rotating single-origin beans. Popular with digital nomads and coffee enthusiasts.
Elegant restaurant in InterContinental Bucharest with refined European cuisine and Romanian influences. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook University Square. Award-winning wine list and impeccable service create memorable dining experiences.
Daily spend by tier in USD, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $12-20 (hostel dorm) | $35-60 (mid-range hotel or private room) | $120-250 (4-5 star hotels) |
| Food (per day) | $10-15 (street food, cheap restaurants, groceries) | $25-40 (mix of casual and mid-range restaurants) | $60-100 (fine dining, wine) |
| Transportation | $3-5 (public transport, some walking) | $5-10 (mix of public transport and taxis/Uber) | $15-30 (taxis, car rental, transfers) |
| Activities | $5-10 (some free attractions, occasional paid entry) | $15-25 (museum entries, tours, experiences) | $30-50 (private tours, premium experiences) |
| Daily total | $30-45 | $70-120 | $200-400+ |
Watch for pickpockets in crowded areas and on public transport, especially Bucharest Metro and tourist areas like Old Town.
Use only licensed taxis from apps (Bolt, Uber) or reputable companies — avoid unlicensed cabs that overcharge tourists.
Avoid displaying expensive items such as cameras and jewelry in tourist areas or on public transport.
Keep valuables secure on overnight trains between cities; use luggage locks and keep bags in sight.
Exchange currency only at official banks or licensed exchange offices (Casa de Schimb) — never from street touts.
Register your trip with your home country embassy; the US Embassy in Bucharest is at Strada Tudor Arghezi 7-9.
Drinking tap water is generally safe in Bucharest and major cities, but bottled water is recommended in rural areas.
Stray dogs are present in some areas, particularly in rural regions and parks — avoid approaching them.
Dress modestly when visiting Orthodox monasteries and churches: covered shoulders and knees are required.
Be aware of ATM skimming scams — use bank-branded ATMs inside bank branches rather than standalone machines.
Road conditions vary widely; mountain roads can be hazardous in winter — always carry snow chains if driving in Carpathians.
Healthcare is adequate in Bucharest but limited in rural areas; travel insurance with medical evacuation is strongly recommended.
Emergency number in Romania is 112 for police, ambulance, and fire services.
Romania is generally a safe country for tourists with low rates of violent crime against foreigners. Petty theft and taxi scams are the primary concerns in tourist areas, particularly Bucharest's Old Town and metro system. Standard urban precautions are sufficient for a comfortable visit. Emergency services: police at 112, medical at 112.
The best time to visit Romania is June-August. Romania has a continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm to hot (25-35°C) especially in Bucharest and the south, while the Carpathian Mountains are significantly cooler. Winters
Visa-free for up to 90 days within 180-day period Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
The currency in Romania is the Romanian Leu (RON) (RON). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
The main language(s) spoken in Romania: Romanian. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
The top attractions in Romania include Bran Castle (Dracula's Castle), Palace of Parliament, Peleș Castle, Transfăgărășan Highway, and Sighișoara Medieval Citadel. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.
