Welcome to all lovers of travel and adventure! If you're looking foran inexpensive, enchantingdestination where history meets natural beauty, look no further than Romania. Nestled in the heart of Eastern Europe, this little-known gem offers a myriad of unique experiences that are sure to captivate intrepid travelers . So what can you do in Romania? In this article, we invite you to explore Romania's hidden treasures through an exclusive list of must-see places. From majestic Transylvania to the medieval charms of Sibiu, via the breathtaking landscapes of the Carpathian Mountains, discover how this country of a thousand facets promises you a memorable trip.
1. Visit the capital, Bucharest
The city known as the "Pearl of the Balkans" leaves no one indifferent. Immerse yourself in the country's tumultuous history by exploring the colossal Palace of Parliament, an imposing testimony to the Communist era. Click here to book your ticket for the Palace of Parliament and avoid the wait at the entrance.
The Dimitrie Gusti Village Museum also offers a comprehensive view of Romanian craftsmanship: you'll see life-size buildings of houses, churches, farms, barns and windmills. We also recommend a stroll through the Old Quarter of Lipscani, with its picturesque cobbled streets. For history buffs, the National Museum of Romanian History offers a fascinating insight into the country's past.
Alittle trivia: according to the Digital Nomad Index, Romania was one of the best countries in the world in which to telework. In fact, it came third behind Canada and the UK. Find out why right here!
2. Bran, Dracula's castle
It's THE must-see Romanian monument! When we think of Romania, we inevitably think of the famous Count Dracula and his Bran Castle , which inspired novelist Bram Stoker to write his novel. Perched on a hill in southern Transylvania, this impressive 13th-century building is charged with an enigmatic atmosphere. Explore its labyrinthine corridors, richly decorated halls and impressive towers, each telling a mystical story from Romanian history. The castle's picturesque architecture, combined with its spectacular location, creates a spellbinding backdrop that will appeal to lovers of history, architecture and fantastic stories .
We recommend that you book this excursion from Bucharest which will take you to Dracula Castle, Peleș Castle and the old town of Brașov.
Bran Castle is one of our Top 5 castles to visit in Europe this Halloween.
3. What to do in Romania Discover the charm of Brasov
Rich in an exceptional architectural and cultural heritage, Brasov has preserved the charm of the medieval city it once was. Colonized in the Middle Ages, the city quickly prospered and became the economic and demographic center of the region. Its richly-colored houses, cobbled streets and superb churches date back to this period. Take a stroll through the town's beautiful medieval center : a vast, colorful square (Piaţa Sfatului) leads to a lively pedestrian thoroughfare and quiet, village-like streets lined with large houses with flower-filled courtyards. Don' t miss the famous Black Church (Biserica Neagra), a Gothic masterpiece that dominates the city's skyline.
Brasov is also the ideal starting point for exploring the Transylvanian mountains4. Monasteries of Bukovina
4. Visit the Monasteries of Bucovina
Romania is renowned for the splendor of its monasteries in the Bucovina region. Erected from the 15th century onwards in the Orthodox tradition, these edifices set amid verdant hills, majestic forests and small streams draw their inspiration from Byzantine architecture. Among the must-see monasteries are those of Voroneț, Dragomirna, Humor, Arbore, Moldovița, Sucevița and Putna. Some, like the charming Moldovita monastery, boast exterior and interior frescoes that are true artistic masterpieces telling captivating tales.
Book your guided tour of the painted monasteries of Bukovina here , including pick-up and drop-off at your hotel in Suceava. You'll see the monasteries of Humor, Voronet, Moldovita and Sucevita.
5. What to do in Romania An excursion to the Maramures region
Nicknamed "the land of wood", the Maramureş region is picturesque and authentic, renowned for its lively folklore and the preservation of its traditions and customs. Its villages seem frozen in time, revealing small carved wooden houses and churches , eight of which are listed on the Unesco World Heritage List. It's a region where you'll see traditional costumes, observe locals still moving around in carts, hear haunting music and observe ancestral festivities. Click here to book your 2-day guided tour of rural Romania.
Petit Futé tip: Take a trip back in time on the Mocanita (the little train of the Carpathians), Romania's last operating steam train, which crosses the 11 km between Abrud and Campeni in dreamy countryside.
6. Săpînţa and its cemetery, the "Happy Cemetery"
It's a must-see stop in the region: the border village of Săpânța (population 3,000), located 20 km west of Sighetu Marmației, is renowned for its handicrafts, most notably its woollen carpets. Indeed, it's not uncommon to come across spinners on the roadside. But Săpânța is most famous for its fabulous "joyful cemetery", a place unique in Europe that seems to make a mockery of death. Both visually sublime and full of humor, Săpânța's joyful cemetery is famous for its brightly colored crosses and naive art, depicting scenes from the lives of the people buried .
7. What to do in Romania Visit the Sihla monastery
If you're looking fora unique spiritual and cultural experience in an atmosphere of absolute tranquility, you've come to the right place. Nestled on a secluded wooded plateau, Sihla Monastery is still inhabited by a community of 30 monks. When you visit, take care not to disturb the local hermits, known to kneel in prayer for long hours. Next door is the grotto of Saint Theodora de Shila, where the nun is said to have lived for 60 years, sleeping on a stone slab. The hermitage is lit by candlelight, creating an atmosphere of mystery and spirituality.
8. A spa holiday in Baile Herculane
One of Europe's oldest spas, Băile Herculane is nestled in the gorge of the River Cerna and surrounded by beautiful wooded mountains. With its imposing 18th and 19th century spa complexes, it's easy to imagine the spa's historical importance in this magnificent natural setting , which led Emperor Franz Joseph to call it the most beautiful on the continent... Its success is due not only to the quality of its waters, but also to the surrounding region. You can go hiking in the superb wooded mountains that surround the town.
9. What to do in Romania Visit the medieval town of Sibiu
Sibiu captivates visitors with its remarkably well-restored historic medieval center, colorful cobblestone streets and squares framed by superb mansions. Piaţa Mare and Piaţa Mică are the heart of Sibiu. This stopover will delight art and history lovers, thanks to its remarkable religious buildings and numerous museums, including the Brukenthal Museum, one of the finest in Eastern Europe. If you prefer to stroll, don't forget to pass under the vaulted porches and explore the superb inner courtyards, as well as the more popular lower town. This is best done with a guide, so click here to book your guided tour of Sibiu!
10. Take a breath of fresh air in Constanta
Constanța is the main port on the Black Sea. Its impressive port infrastructure, visible from everywhere, and its forest of cranes form a curious landscape. Its many museums and monuments, its wide, lively thoroughfares, but above all its oriental atmosphere, are well worth a stop before continuing on to the coastal towns. Take a stroll along the seafront and through the city center, and let yourself be seduced by the Mediterranean atmosphere, unique in the country. Places of cultural interest can be found in the northern part of the center, around Victoria Park, and, to the south, around Ovidiu Square. Constanța also boasts a gray-sand beach, very close to the center.
Spend the day in the coastal city of Constanta and enjoy incredible views of the Black Sea by booking this guided tour!
11. What to do in Romania Hiking in Bucegi National Park
Calling all trekking and hiking enthusiasts! Bucegi National Park is a living tableau of majestic ridges, natural cirques, canyons, picturesque valleys, refreshing waterfalls, dense forests and lush green pastures, home to flora and fauna unique to the Carpathians. The park offers a variety of hiking trails suitable for all levels, from beginner to expert.
At the top of Mount Bucegi are two geological curiosities, the Sphinx (reminiscent of the Giza Sphinx) and the Babele , which means "old ladies". This site, with its magnificent views, attracts a huge number of visitors, as it's a lovely, easy walk through the mountain pastures.
12. Peleș Castle, north-west of Sinaia
The summer residence of King Carol I and his wife Elisabeth, Peleș Castle looks straight out of a fair y tale and has become one of Romania's most visited landmarks. It was built between 1873 and 1914, according to the crazy plan of King Carol I, who wanted to bring together the arts from around the world by giving each room a theme. The castle is therefore in the German Neo-Renaissance style, but also incorporates Italian, Oriental, French and Gothic styles. Among the most beautiful rooms, you'll find the hall of honor, with its fine carved walnut decorations, and the library, with its magnificent wood panelling.
Discover the medieval castles of Transylvania on this day excursion from Bucharest which includes Dracula Castle, Peleș Castle and a guided tour of Brașov.
13. What to do in Romania Visit the feudal city of Sighişoara
Situated on the banks of the Târnava Mare river, Sighişoara is one of Transylvania's jewels and undoubtedly one of the most beautiful fortified towns still inhabited in Europe . Its medieval city, which dominates the town and valley, is wonderfully well preserved, earning it a place on Unesco's World Heritage List. And you'll soon understand why. The cobbled streets, colorful facades, wrought-iron signs and archedpassageways create an atmosphere akin to the world of fairy tales.
Explore the narrow streets of Europe's only inhabited medieval citadel and discover the history of the birthplace of the world's most famous vampire, Dracula, by booking this guided tour !
14. Discover Timişoara, "Little Vienna"
Designated European Capital of Culture in 2021 and nicknamed "little Vienna", Timişoara will charm you with its elegance and dynamism. Its history, punctuated by invasions, explains the seductive diversity of its architectural styles. The city center is structured around three large squares: Piața Victoriei (opposite the cathedral), Piața Libertății (more intimate) and the superb Piața Unirii with its square surrounded by 18th-century buildings.The Iosefin and Fabric districts, to the south and east, are also great places for a stroll. The city is also known for its beautiful flower-filled parks along the Bega.
Explore Timisoara's historic center on this guided tour, where you'll admire the architecture, explore Unirii Square and learn about the history of the Romanian Revolution of 1989.
15. What to do in Romania The Wine Route around Cotnari
If you're a wine lover, you'll be delighted with your visit to Romania and its wine estates. The country abounds in vineyards, including Cotnari and its Romanian grape varieties such as Francusa, Feteasca Alba and Tamaioasa romanesca, which was the favorite wine of Stefan Cel Mare, Prince of Moldavia in the 15th century. You'll taste sweet white wines with subtle aromas of walnuts, raisins, dried apricots and beeswax. Following the road from Tarpesti to Iasi, you'll pass several wine cellars, but if there's one obligatory stop you must make, it's in the charming village of Cotnari. It's a must-see in this exceptional wine region!
16. Road-trip along the Transfagarasan road
This road through the Carpathian mountains in Romania is often listed as one of the most beautiful roads in the world, and one of the most beautiful road-trips in Europe . Although it's only 90 km long, you need to be extremely careful when taking it, and take your time, as the drive zigzags through the beautiful Fagaras mountains. En route, we stop to enjoy two must-see places for several days: the Retezat National Park and the Cerna Valley Natural Park. In the former, you can see over 60 peaks, glacial lakes and cross paths with lynx, bears, chamois and wild boar. The second reveals deciduous forests and endemic species. This road-trip is the perfect opportunity to experience nature at its best in Eastern Europe. Please note that the Transfagarasan route is inaccessible from mid-October to mid-June due to snow.
We recommend taking this guided tour along the Transfagarasan scenic route : you'll be able to see remarkable sites such as Poenari Castle and Capra Waterfall, and watch out for brown bears along the mountain road.
What to do in Romania in winter?
Going to Romania in winter? Don't worry, this destination offers a wide range of activities, from winter sports to traditional celebrations. Here are a few suggestions for making the most of the winter season in this magnificent country, one of the world's top destinations!
- Winter sports: Explore Carpathian ski resorts such as Poiana Brasov or Sinaia, which offer pistes for all levels and are among the cheapest places to ski. Downhill skiing, snowboarding and even tobogganing are popular options.
- Winter hiking: Romania's mountains are transformed into magical winter landscapes. Winter hiking offers a unique perspective on snow-covered nature.
- Thermal spas: Warm up in thermal spas such as Baile Felix or Sovata, where you can relax in warm waters while admiring the snow-covered landscape.
- Festivals and Christmas markets: Discover the festive atmosphere in cities like Sibiu, Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca, where magnificent Christmas markets offer handcrafted decorations, culinary specialties and entertainment.
- Snow-covered castles: Visit Romania's iconic castles, such as Bran Castle, for a unique experience under the snow. Snow-covered landscapes add a magical touch to these historic sites.
How to visit Romania in 3 days?
Sometimes underestimated, Romania is one of those ideal destinations for discovering the countries of Eastern Europe, and visiting it in three days requires strategic planning. Here's a suggested itinerary to maximize your time by focusing on key destinations and iconic experiences.
Day 1: Bucharest
- Morning: Discover the rich history of the capital, Bucharest, with a visit to the Palace of Parliament, one of the largest administrative buildings in the world.
- Afternoon: Stroll through Old Bucharest, especially the Lipscani district, with its picturesque lanes, stores and cafés.
Day 2: Transylvania
- Morning: Travel to Brasov, a picturesque town in the heart of the Carpathian Mountains.
- Afternoon: Visit the famous Bran Castle, one of our Top 10 most beautiful castles in Europe and associated with Dracula. Then explore the medieval town of Brasov, with its central square and famous Black Church.
Day 3: Sibiu and end of tour
- Morning: Set off for Sibiu, another iconic Transylvanian city. Explore the Grand Place, the Bridge of Lies and the cobbled streets of the old town.
- Afternoon: Visit the Brukenthal Museum, one of the oldest museums in Europe, then stroll through the city's charming districts.
What to see in Romania in a week?
With 4 extra days, you can extend your exploration of Romania and discover more of the fascinating regions that make this country one of Europe's favorite backpacker destinations. Here's an itinerary extension to include other interesting destinations:
Day 4: Sighișoara and Wine Region
- Morning: Travel to Sighișoara, a well-preserved medieval town. Explore the old town, with its clock tower and the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler.
- Afternoon: Visit the region's fortified churches, then head to the Târnave wine region to taste local wines.
Day 5: Cluj-Napoca
- Morning: Head for Cluj-Napoca, a dynamic university town. Visit Unirii Square and St. Michael's Cathedral.
- Afternoon: Explore the Cluj History Museum and Art Museum, then stroll through the city's bohemian quarter.
Day 6: Maramureș region
- Morning: Travel to the Maramureș region, renowned for its wooden churches and preserved traditions.
- Afternoon: Visit the village of Breb and admire its traditional wooden houses, then explore the Sighetu Marmației Village Museum.
Day 7: Mocănița Steam Train and return to Bucharest
Board the Mocănița steam train in Viseu de Sus for a picturesque experience through the Carpathian Mountains. Return to Bucharest at the end of the day.
