Romania is in Europe. Its capital is Bucharest. It ranks #47 among the world's most-visited countries. It draws about ~2.9 million visitors a year. Below: top cities, experiences, seasons, food and entry rules.
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Romania sits in southeastern Europe. It is famed for Transylvania's castles. The Carpathian Mountains cross the country. It joined the EU in 2007.
Romania sits in Europe, with Bucharest as its capital. It suits first-time visitors and repeat travellers alike. You can mix famous sights with quieter corners. This guide covers cities, experiences, seasons, food and visas.
A quick framework before the details.
Start by choosing your season and trip length. Most first trips run about one to two weeks. Base yourself in Bucharest first, then branch out. Add Brasov and for variety and contrast. Book flights and any visa well ahead. Leave slow days to simply wander and rest.
Beyond the cities — the sights worth planning around.
These sights anchor most Romania itineraries. Pick a few and build your route around them.
Where the country's variety lies.
| Region | Known for |
|---|---|
| Transylvania | Castles, forests and Saxon towns. |
| Bucharest & Wallachia | The capital and southern plains. |
| Bucovina | Painted monasteries. |
| The Danube Delta | A vast birdlife wetland. |
Each region has its own scenery, food and pace. Mixing two or three gives the fullest picture.
Easy routes built from the cities above.
Adjust nights to your pace and interests. Fewer stops usually means a richer trip.
Visit May to September for mild weather. Winter suits Carpathian skiing.
| Season | Typically | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 🌸 Spring | Mild, fewer crowds | Often a sweet spot |
| ☀️ Summer | Peak & warmest | Busy and pricier |
| 🍂 Autumn | Cooler, colourful | Great value shoulder |
| ❄️ Winter | Coldest / off-peak | Quiet; some sights close |
Tourism data: UN Tourism.
Trains, transit and the open road.
Cities usually have metros, buses or trams. Trains link many regions comfortably and scenically. Domestic flights save time over long distances. Car hire opens up the countryside and small towns.
Dishes worth seeking out.
Food is a highlight of any Romania trip. Try local markets, cafes and family-run spots.
| Dish | What it is |
|---|---|
| Sarmale | Cabbage rolls with mince. |
| Mămăligă | A polenta-like maize dish. |
| Mici | Grilled minced-meat rolls. |
| Ciorbă | A sour soup. |
| Papanași | Fried doughnuts with cream. |
Time a trip around these.
| Festival | When | About |
|---|---|---|
| George Enescu Festival | September | A major classical-music festival. |
| Sighișoara Medieval Festival | July | Costumes in a medieval town. |
| Christmas markets | December | Festive Transylvanian markets. |
Festivals book out hotels early. Plan and reserve well in advance.
Small courtesies that go a long way.
A friendly greeting is always appreciated. Dress modestly at temples, churches and shrines. Learn a few words of Romanian before you go. Tipping norms vary, so check locally.
Most visitors arrive by air. Confirm visa rules before booking.
🛂 For Indian passport holders: Indians need a Schengen visa; Romania joined Schengen in 2025. See the official source: Visa policy.
Also check the IATA Travel Centre.
Base yourself in Bucharest or Brasov. Each has stays from hostels to five-star hotels. A mid-range hotel runs about $25–40 a night. Book early in peak season and near the main sights.
Search hotels in Bucharest, Brasov. Browse all stays on Booking.com or Airbnb.
Approximate daily costs per person, excluding flights.
| Style | Approx. per day | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| 🎒 Budget | $25–35 | Hostels, street food, public transport |
| 🧳 Mid-range | $55–90 | Comfortable hotels, cafes, some taxis |
| 🛎️ Luxury | $90–150 / night+ | Five-star hotels, fine dining, private guides |
A comfortable mid-range hotel runs about $25–40 a night. Meals add around $12–25 a day. Cities cost more than towns and villages. Travelling off-peak stretches your budget further.
Souvenirs and local specialities.
Little things that smooth a trip.
| Topic | What to know |
|---|---|
| 💵 Money | The currency is Romanian leu (RON). |
| 📱 Connectivity | Buy a local or eSIM on arrival. |
| 🔌 Power | Carry a universal travel adapter. |
| 🩺 Health | Check vaccines and travel insurance. |
| 🗣️ Language | The main language is Romanian. |
Leave places better than you find them.
A little Romanian goes a long way.
The main language is Romanian. English is common in tourist areas and hotels. Learn hello, please and thank you first. A translation app helps with menus and signs.
Cards, cash and everyday spending.
The currency is Romanian leu (RON). Cards work widely in cities and hotels. Carry some cash for markets and small vendors. ATMs are easy to find in towns. Tell your bank before you travel abroad.
A mid-range hotel costs about $25–40 a night. Five-star stays run roughly $90–150. Food adds around $12–25 a day. Budget days cost about $25–35; mid-range about $55–90.
What to bring for Romania's climate and culture.
Bring layers and a light waterproof jacket. Add comfortable walking shoes and a travel adapter. Bring personal medicines. Carry copies of your passport and visa.
Odds and ends worth knowing.
A little extra background.
Romania is larger than many expect. Transylvania is its most famous region. Bucharest mixes grand and gritty streets. The Carpathians ring the country. Trains are cheap but can be slow. The leu is the local currency. Painted monasteries dot the northeast. Wild bears still roam the forests. English is common among younger people. Spring and autumn are ideal for touring. Romania is larger and greener than expected. Transylvania holds its famous castles. Trains are cheap but can be slow. Wild bears still roam the Carpathians. The leu is the local currency. Painted monasteries dot the northeast. English is common among the young. Spring and autumn are ideal.
Romania is in Europe. Its capital is Bucharest.
Visit May to September for mild weather. Winter suits Carpathian skiing.
A mid-range hotel costs about $25–40 a night. Five-star stays run roughly $90–150. Meals add around $12–25 a day. Backpackers manage on about $25–35 daily. A mid-range trip costs about $55–90 a day. That excludes international flights.
Plan about 7-10 days for Romania. That covers the highlights without rushing. Add more days for a slower pace.
Bring layers and a light waterproof jacket. Add comfortable walking shoes and a travel adapter. Bring personal medicines. Carry copies of your passport and visa.
The top cities are Bucharest, Brasov. Base yourself in Bucharest first. Then branch out to the others.
Indians need a Schengen visa; Romania joined Schengen in 2025.
Buses and domestic flights link the main regions. Trains help in some countries. Hire cars suit rural areas. City taxis cover short trips. Ride-hailing apps work in big cities.
Romania uses the Romanian leu (RON). Carry some cash; cards work in cities and hotels.
The official language is Romanian. English is common in tourist areas and hotels.
About ~2.9 million (overnight) international visitors.
Try Sarmale, Mămăligă and Mici. Street stalls and family-run spots are the best value.
Yes. Romania is welcoming and easy for first-time visitors. Especially in tourist areas.
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