Romania is a beautiful country in Eastern Europe that offers a mix of stunning landscapes, historical landmarks, and bustling cities. The best time to visit is during the spring and summer months when the weather is mild and perfect for outdoor activities.
The local currency is the Romanian Leu and travelers can easily exchange currency at banks and exchange offices. U.S. citizens do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. The most convenient way to get around Romania is by renting a car, as public transportation can be unreliable. Be sure to try the delicious local cuisine and immerse yourself in the country’s rich culture and traditions.
Romania offers a diverse range of activities and attractions for visitors, making it an ideal destination for all types of travelers.
Adventure seekers can explore the breathtaking Carpathian Mountains, which offer a plethora of outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and mountain biking. The Danube Delta, one of Europe’s largest wetlands, is perfect for birdwatching and kayaking.
For leisure activities, Romania boasts stunning beaches along the Black Sea coast, as well as picturesque towns and villages rich in history and culture. Visitors can also relax and rejuvenate in the country’s numerous natural thermal spas.
Families will find plenty of child-friendly attractions, such as the Bran Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle, and charming medieval towns like Sighisoara. Children can also enjoy interactive experiences at the Palace of the Parliament in Bucharest, the world’s second-largest administrative building.
Unique local experiences include exploring the traditional villages of Maramures and admiring their brightly colored wooden houses, as well as sampling delicious Romanian cuisine like sarmale (cabbage rolls) and mici (grilled minced meat rolls).
Overall, Romania offers an unforgettable mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion that will leave travelers with lasting memories.
Romania is a country with a rich history and cultural heritage, and it is important for travelers to be aware of local customs and etiquette in order to show respect and enhance their travel experience.
One important custom in Romania is to greet others with a handshake upon meeting, and to use formal titles such as “Domnul” (Mr.) and “Doamna” (Mrs.) when addressing someone. It is also polite to wait for the host to initiate small talk before getting into business matters.
When invited into someone’s home, it is customary to bring a small gift such as flowers or chocolates, and to take off your shoes before entering. It is also considered polite to compliment the host on their home and hospitality.
Romanians value punctuality, so it is important to be on time for appointments and meetings. It is also considered impolite to ask personal questions, so it is best to avoid prying into someone’s personal life.
In terms of dining etiquette, it is customary to wait for the host to begin eating before starting your own meal. It is also polite to try a bit of everything on your plate and finish everything on it, as leaving food can be seen as wasteful.
It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions in Romania, such as Orthodox Christianity, and to dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Overall, being open-minded and showing respect towards the customs and traditions of Romania will greatly enhance your travel experience.
1. Stay aware of your surroundings and be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas, especially in major cities like Bucharest.
2. Be cautious when driving, as road conditions and traffic laws may be different from what you are used to.
3. Carry necessary medications and health supplies with you, especially if you have any pre-existing conditions.
4. Drink bottled water and be cautious of food safety, as tap water may not always be safe for consumption.
5. In case of an emergency, dial 112 for emergency services and contact your embassy for assistance.
6. If planning outdoor activities, be sure to protect against ticks, which can carry Lyme disease.
7. Familiarize yourself with potential health risks, such as tick-borne diseases and rabies, and take necessary precautions.
8. Keep important medical documents, such as vaccination records, with you while traveling.
9. Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover any unexpected medical expenses.
10. Research any necessary vaccinations for your trip and visit a doctor or travel clinic before your departure.
1. Transylvania International Film Festival (TIFF) – This annual event in Cluj-Napoca showcases the best of Romanian and international cinema, drawing in film enthusiasts from all over the world.
2. Bucharest International Jazz Festival – Held in the capital city, this festival celebrates the vibrant jazz music scene of Romania and features performances by both local and international artists.
3. George Enescu Festival – Every two years, this prestigious classical music festival takes place in Bucharest, honoring the works of Romania’s most renowned composer.
4. Sighisoara Medieval Festival – Step back in time and experience the Middle Ages at this festival in the picturesque town of Sighisoara, complete with jousting tournaments, traditional food and drink, and medieval crafts.
5. Christmas Markets – During the holiday season, cities all over Romania come alive with festive Christmas markets, selling handmade gifts, traditional foods, and mulled wine.
6. Traditional Easter Celebrations – Romania’s rich Orthodox Christian heritage is on display during Easter, with colorful processions, church services, and traditional feasts.
7. Bucharest International Theater Festival – This event brings together theater companies from around the world for a week of performances, workshops, and discussions in the capital city.
8. Red Lake Mud Volcano Festival – This unique event near the Red Lake showcases the fascinating natural phenomenon of mud volcanoes, along with traditional folk music, dance, and food.
9. National Day (Romania’s Independence Day) – On December 1st, the country celebrates its independence with parades, concerts, and other festivities throughout the country.
10. Wine Harvest Festivals – Romania’s wine regions host numerous harvest festivals throughout the year, giving travelers the opportunity to taste the country’s best wines and learn about its winemaking traditions.
Experience traditional Romanian culture at the Astra Museum in Sibiu, explore the stunning caves and waterfalls of the Apuseni Mountains, and savor local wines at the enchanting Hฤrman Monastery. For a taste of medieval history, visit the fortified citadel of Sighiศoara and venture to the remote villages of Maramureศ to witness traditional woodworking and folk art. Unwind on the pristine beaches of the Danube Delta or take a hike through the scenic Rodna Mountains for a peaceful escape.