Highlights
Transylvania is the heart of any visit — the perfectly preserved medieval Saxon towns of Brașov, Sibiu and Sighișoara (Dracula's birthplace), the clifftop Bran Castle (marketed as 'Dracula's Castle'), and the fairytale Peleș Castle near Sinaia. Fortified Saxon churches and rolling, unspoilt countryside where horse-carts still work the fields complete the scene.
The Carpathian Mountains offer spectacular driving on the legendary Transfăgărășan and Transalpina roads, superb hiking, and Europe's largest population of brown bears (viewable responsibly with guides). To the north, the painted monasteries of Bucovina and the joyful 'Merry Cemetery' of Săpânța showcase living folk traditions, while Maramureș preserves a timeless rural way of life.
Bucharest, the energetic capital, contrasts Belle Époque grandeur (the 'Little Paris' era) with the colossal Palace of the Parliament and a buzzing nightlife and café scene. In the far east, the Danube Delta — a UNESCO biosphere reserve — is a labyrinth of channels and reedbeds teeming with pelicans and rare birds, explored by boat.
When to go
May, June and September are the sweet spots — warm, green and ideal for Transylvania's castles, the painted monasteries and the Carpathian Mountains, without peak crowds.
Summer (July-August) is hot, busy on the Black Sea coast, and lively with festivals, though the mountains stay pleasant. Autumn brings golden forests and the wine and harvest season. Winter (December-March) offers skiing in the Carpathians, snowy fairytale castles and festive markets, though it's cold with short days. Spring is fresh and blossoming. For castles, mountains and comfortable touring, aim for late spring or early autumn.
Visa & entry
This country is part of the Schengen Area. Many nationalities (including UK, US, Canadian, Australian and others) can visit visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period, while others need a Schengen visa arranged in advance. The EU's ETIAS travel authorisation for visa-exempt visitors is being phased in, so check whether it applies by your travel date. A passport valid at least three months beyond your stay is required. Always confirm the current requirements for your nationality and the ETIAS status on official EU/national sources before you travel.
Health & safety
Romania is a safe country for travellers, with low violent crime and welcoming people, though it retains an undeserved reputation for danger. The real issues are petty theft and pickpocketing in crowded parts of Bucharest and on transport, occasional taxi overcharging (use apps like Bolt), and stray dogs in some areas.
In the mountains, respect bear-safety advice (never feed or approach them) and alpine conditions. Roads can be winding and driving assertive, so take care, especially on mountain passes, and avoid night driving in rural areas. Healthcare is variable, so carry insurance. Check your government's advisory before departure; tourist areas are generally safe.
Getting around
Romania's transport is improving but a car is the best way to experience Transylvania, the mountains and rural areas — hiring one unlocks the castles, Saxon villages and the epic Transfăgărășan road (open in summer), though be ready for winding roads and assertive driving. Trains (CFR) and cheap coaches/minibuses (maxitaxis) connect the main cities but can be slow.
Bucharest has a metro, trams and buses, and ride-hailing (Bolt, Uber) is cheap and widespread in cities — far easier than street taxis. Domestic flights link Bucharest with Cluj, Timișoara and the coast. For the classic Transylvania tour, driving or a guided tour is ideal.
Money
Romania uses the Romanian Leu (not the Euro, despite EU membership), so you'll need local currency. It is increasingly card-friendly in cities — cards and contactless are widely accepted — but carry cash for rural areas, markets, small guesthouses and tips, as villages remain cash-reliant. Use ATMs or reputable exchange offices, and choose to be charged in lei, not your home currency.
Romania is very affordable, among the best-value destinations in the EU for dining, wine and accommodation. Tipping is customary — around 10% in restaurants for good service, and rounding up for taxis, guides and hotel staff.
Romania