Most Complete Romania Travel Guide 2026-2027 – Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting

Romania Overview & Key Facts

Brief History of Romania

Romania’s history spans from ancient Dacian kingdoms conquered by Roman Emperor Trajan in 106 AD to medieval principalities and 20th-century communist rule. The Romans left lasting Latin influence on language and culture, while medieval Transylvania was shaped by Hungarian and Saxon settlers. The unification of Wallachia, Moldavia and Transylvania in 1918 created modern Romania, followed by turbulent decades under communism until the 1989 revolution.

Independence & National Identity

• Independence date: 1877 (from Ottoman Empire); Great Union December 1, 1918.
• Former ruling systems: Ottoman influence, Austro-Hungarian, Communist regime.
• National symbols & identity.

Romania celebrates its National Day on December 1, commemorating the 1918 union. The tricolor flag and national anthem reflect Latin heritage and independence struggles. Romanian identity proudly emphasizes Latin roots among Slavic and Hungarian neighbors.

Government System & Current Leadership

• Type of government: Semi-presidential republic
• Current president: Klaus Iohannis (until 2024 election)
• Notes on political stability

Romania is a stable EU and NATO member with regular democratic elections. The country has made significant progress since joining the European Union in 2007 and benefits from strong Western alliances.

Population, Ethnic Groups & Languages

• Population: 19.1 million (2025 estimate).
• Major ethnic groups: Romanians (89%), Hungarians (6.5%), Roma (3.5%).
• Official language(s): Romanian.
• Additional languages commonly spoken.

Hungarian is widely spoken in Transylvania (Harghita, Covasna counties are majority Hungarian). English proficiency is high among younger generations, and many older Romanians speak French.

Main Religions & Cultural Identity

Romania is predominantly Eastern Orthodox (81%), with Roman Catholic, Reformed and other Christian denominations. Religion plays an important cultural role, with beautifully preserved wooden churches and painted monasteries. Secular traditions are strong in urban areas, while rural communities maintain deep religious practices.

Geography & Natural Landscape

Romania features remarkable geographical diversity: Carpathian Mountains (home to Europe’s largest brown bear population), Transylvanian plateau, Danube Delta (Europe’s best-preserved delta), and 245 km of Black Sea coastline. The famous Transfăgărășan and Transalpina highways are among the world’s most spectacular mountain roads.

Economy & Tourism Highlights

Romania has one of Europe’s fastest-growing economies with strong IT, automotive and tourism sectors. Tourism has grown dramatically since 2015, with visitors discovering exceptional value, authentic experiences and improving infrastructure while avoiding Western European prices and crowds.

What Romania Is Known For

• Dracula legend & Bran Castle
• UNESCO Painted Monasteries of Bucovina
• Transfăgărășan Highway & Carpathian wilderness
• Danube Delta biosphere reserve
• Saxon fortified churches of Transylvania

Visa & Entry Requirements in Romania

Romania applies EU visa policy but is not yet part of the Schengen Area (expected 2026). Many nationalities enjoy visa-free entry while others require visas.

Do You Need a Visa?

EU/EEA/Swiss: no visa. US, Canada, Australia, UK, Japan, South Korea, etc.: visa-free 90 days within 180 days. Many African, Asian and Latin American countries require visas – check official sources.

Visa Application Options in Romania

• Visa-free entry for eligible nationalities
• Short-stay visa (type C) through Romanian embassies
• E-visa system expected to launch in 2025–2026

Passport Validity & Entry Documents

Passport valid 3 months beyond intended stay, with at least two blank pages. Return ticket and proof of accommodation may be requested.

Customs Rules & Prohibited Items

Standard EU customs rules. Declare cash over €10,000. No restrictions on personal medication with prescription.

Safety & Security Information in Romania

Romania is one of Europe’s safest countries with low violent crime rates. Most governments rate it Level 1 (normal precautions).

Is Romania Safe for Tourists?

Yes – extremely safe. Petty pickpocketing in Bucharest and crowded tourist sites is the main concern. Violent crime against tourists is rare.

Recommended Safety Tips when in Romania

Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps (Bolt, Uber in major cities). Beware of pickpockets in crowded areas. Avoid unofficial money changers. Standard precautions apply in nightlife areas.

Safe Areas vs. Areas to Avoid in Romania

All tourist areas are safe. Some Bucharest neighborhoods (Ferentzvaros, Pantelimon) have higher petty crime but are easily avoided.

Emergency Numbers & Tourist Police in Romania

• Emergency: 112 (English available).
• Tourist Police units in Bucharest, Brașov, Cluj.

Health Requirements & Vaccinations in Romania

No mandatory vaccinations. Standard European health standards.

Mandatory Vaccinations in Romania

None for most travelers.

Recommended Vaccinations in Romania

Routine vaccines. Tick-borne encephalitis if extensive hiking in forests (spring–autumn). Hepatitis A/B for longer stays.

Malaria & Other Risks

No malaria. Ticks in forests, stray dogs in rural areas (rabies rare but possible).

Travel Insurance Recommendations in Romania

Highly recommended. EU citizens should bring EHIC/GHIC. Private insurance covers mountain rescue and private hospitals.

Best Time to Visit in Romania

May–June and September–October offer perfect weather and fewer crowds. July–August for beach and festivals. December for Christmas markets.

Weather by Season

Spring: mild and blooming. Summer: warm–hot (30–35°C in south). Autumn: golden colors and pleasant temperatures. Winter: cold with snow in mountains.

When to Visit Romania for Best Experiences

• Christmas markets: December
• Wildflower meadows: May–June
• Black Sea beaches: July–August
• Foliage in Transylvania: September–October

High Season vs. Low Season Travel

High season: July–August and Christmas/New Year. Shoulder seasons offer best value and weather.

Weather & Climate Overview in Romania

Continental climate with four distinct seasons. Significant regional variations.

Temperature Ranges

Winter: -5 to 5°C (colder in mountains). Summer: 25–35°C. Spring/Autumn: 10–20°C.

Rainy & Dry Seasons in Romania

Rainiest months: May–June. Driest: August–September.

What to Wear Based on the Weather

Layers essential. Good walking shoes. Warm coat for winter visits. Light clothing + jacket for summer evenings.

Main Currency, Costs & Budgeting in Romania

Romania remains one of Europe’s best-value destinations despite rapid development.

Local Currency Information

Romanian Leu (RON). 1 EUR ≈ 5 RON (fixed rate).

Average Travel Costs in Romania

Budget: €50–80/day. Mid-range: €90–150/day. Luxury: €200+/day.

Using ATMs, Cards & Mobile Money in Romania

Cards accepted almost everywhere except small villages. ATMs widespread. Apple/Google Pay common.

Tipping Guidelines in Romania

10% in restaurants (round up if service included). Taxi drivers: round up. Housekeeping: 10–20 RON/day.

Transportation & Getting Around in Romania

Excellent train network, improving highways, budget domestic flights.

Airport Transfers

Bucharest: express bus, Uber/Bolt, trains to city center.

Local Transport Options in Romania

Modern metros in Bucharest. Extensive train network (CFR Călători). Buses and maxi-taxis between cities.

Romania Domestic Flights

TAROM, Ryanair, Wizz Air connect major cities.

Car Rentals & Road Conditions in Romania

Excellent for self-drive holidays. Transfăgărășan open June–October. Mountain roads challenging but spectacular.

Accommodation Options available in Romania

From boutique guesthouses in Transylvania to international chains in Bucharest.

Types of Accommodations in Romania

Hotels, pensions, boutique guesthouses, rural homestays, mountain cabins, Black Sea resorts.

Budget vs. Mid-Range vs. Luxury

Budget: €25–50/night. Mid-range: €60–120. Luxury: €150+ (exceptional value compared to Western Europe).

Best Areas to Stay in Romania

Bucharest Old Town, Brașov historic center, Sibiu, Sighișoara medieval citadel, Danube Delta villages.

Essential Packing Guide when Visiting Romania

Versatile clothing for variable weather. Comfortable shoes for cobblestone streets.

Clothing Essentials

Layers, waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes, modest attire for monasteries.

Footwear & Gear

Good walking/hiking shoes, sandals for summer, warm boots for winter.

Electronics & Cameras

Type C/F plugs, 230V. Power reliable everywhere.

Toiletries & Personal Items

Everything available. Bring prescription medications.

Language & Communication in Romania

Romanian (Romance language – easier for Spanish/Italian/French speakers).

Main Languages Spoken in Romania

Romanian official. English widespread among under-40s. Hungarian in Transylvania.

Useful Phrases for Tourists

Bună, Mulțumesc, Vă rog, Cât costă?, Unde este...?

SIM Cards & Mobile Data used in Romania

Orange, Vodafone, DigiMobil – excellent coverage and cheap data.

Internet Availability & Wi-Fi in Romania

Fast Wi-Fi almost everywhere, including restaurants and public transport.

Culture & Etiquette in Romania

Warm, hospitable culture with strong family values.

Romanian Dress Code Expectations

Casual European style. Cover shoulders/knees in monasteries.

Social Etiquette & Respectful Behavior of Romania

Handshake greetings. Bring small gift when invited home. Remove shoes in homes.

Photography Rules in Romania

Generally allowed. Ask permission for people (especially Roma communities and nuns).

Important Cultural Dos & Don’ts in Romania

Do accept offered food/drink. Don’t confuse Romania with Roma people. Don’t mention politics unless invited.

Food, Water & Dining in Romania

Hearty, flavorful cuisine with grilled meats, soups, and fermented vegetables.

Romanian Local Dishes to Try

Sarmale, mămăligă, mici, ciorbă de burtă, papanasi, țuică/horincă.

Dietary Options in Romania

Excellent vegetarian options (fasting foods during Lent). Growing vegan scene in cities.

Drinking Water Safety

Tap water safe in cities, bottled recommended in rural areas.

Restaurant Etiquette

Service often not included – tip 10%. Lunch main meal in rural areas.

Top Attractions & Things to Do in Romania

Perfect mix of culture, nature and history.

Major Tourist Attractions in Romania

• Bran Castle (Dracula’s Castle)
• Peleș Castle
• Painted Monasteries of Bucovina (UNESCO)
• Sighișoara medieval citadel (UNESCO)
• Transfăgărășan Highway
• Danube Delta

Best Tours & Experiences in Romania

Bear watching in Carpathians, wine tasting in Dealu Mare, Saxon village cycling, traditional craft workshops.

Family-Friendly Activities to do in Romania

Salina Turda underground theme park, Muddy Volcanoes, Dino Park Râșnov, Black Sea beaches.

Unique Cultural or Historical Sites to visit in Romania

Merry Cemetery in Săpânța, wooden churches of Maramureș, Dacian fortresses in Orăștie Mountains.

Romanian Electrical System Information

Standard European system.

Plug Types & Voltage used in Romania

Type C and F, 230V, 50Hz.

Charging Tips

Power reliable everywhere. Bring universal adapter.

Local Laws & Regulations of Romania

Standard European laws. Respectful behavior expected.

Rules Travelers Need to Know when In Romania

No photography of military/police. Drone regulations strict. No public drunkenness fines.

Alcohol, Smoking & Substance Laws of Romania

Drinking age 18. Smoking banned indoors. Cannabis illegal.

Restricted or Protected Areas in Romania.

Bear habitats require guides. Danube Delta access regulated.

Final Travel Tips for Visitors in Romania

Don’t rush – take time to discover rural Transylvania and Maramureș. Learn a few Romanian phrases. Try homemade food when invited.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Only visiting Bucharest and Bran Castle. Expecting everyone to speak English in rural areas. Driving mountain roads without experience.

Tips to Save Money when Visiting Romania

Travel by train, eat at local restaurants, stay in guesthouses, visit in shoulder season.

Safety & Comfort Tips

Use licensed taxis/apps, keep valuables secure in crowds, buy local SIM for navigation.

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