Romania Travel Guide

Overview

Capital:

Bucharest.

Geography:

Romania is bordered by Moldova and Ukraine to the north and northeast; the Black Sea to the east; Bulgariato the south; and Serbia and Hungary to the west. The country is divided into 41 counties, but essentially there are four geographical regions with decidedly different characters; Transylvania, Moldova, Dobrogea and Muntenia. 

Transylvania and Moldova comprise the northern half of the country and are characterised by Alpine massifs and dense forests. The Carpathian Mountains run along the border of these two regions and are made up of 14 mountain ranges above 2,000m (6,560ft) with Moldoveanu Peak at 2,544m (8,300ft) the highest point.

The terrain around here is a mix of extinct volcanic cones, lunar plains, thick forests and glacial lakes – perfect for hiking, cycling and adrenaline sports.

Muntenia, also known as Wallachia, lies south of the Carpathians and is home to the capital Bucharest. A relatively flat province, its border with Bulgaria is defined by the River Danube. In the southeast lies Dobrogea, which is home to the Danube Delta. The best-preserved delta in Europe, it is a haven for wildlife and has been declared a biosphere reserve and biodiversity World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

The Dobrogea region boasts nearly 200 km (120 miles) of Black Sea coastline, incorporating the port of Constanta and the Danube Delta. Romania’s other major rivers include the Olt, the Siret and the Mures.

Getting There

Getting There By Air

Romania's main airline is TAROM (www.tarom.ro). Other airlines operating direct flights from the UK include Blue Air (www.blueairweb.com), British Airways (www.ba.com), Ryanair (www.ryanair.com) and Wizz (www.wizzair.com). There are no direct flights from the USA. The cheapest time to fly is between January and March – the summer months and Christmas are more expensive. 

Major airports are: Bucharest Henri Coanda International Airport, Cluj Avram Iancu International Airport, Sibiu International Airport and Timisoara Traian Vuia International Airport.

Departure Tax

None.

Flight Times

To Bucharest: from London - 3 hours 10 minutes; New York - 11 hours 30 minutes (including stopover).

Getting There By Road

Driving to Romania from the UK takes around 24 hours and involves several border crossings. Routes 7, 79 and 78 are the most commonly used by international travellers entering the country from Hungary – drivers need to present their vehicle’s registration, proof of address and a valid driving licence. Buses run from several major European cities, including London and Brussels. The main international operator is Eurolines (www.eurolines.com).

Getting There By Water

Constanța (www.portofconstantza.com) on the Black Sea is the country’s major port.

Getting Around

Getting Around By Air

TAROM (www.tarom.ro) and Blue Air (www.blueairweb.com) both operate domestic flights.

Bike

You can hire bikes in most of the major cities for a reasonable sum.

Breakdown Services

Contact the Romanian Automobile Club (ACR) (tel: 9271, in Romania only or +40 21 222 2222; www.acr.ro).

Car Hire

Available at hotels and at Bucharest Airport from local and international firms. The minimum age for car hire is 21 years. Driving is very erratic, so it might be advisable to hire a car with a driver.

Coach

The public road transport network comprises a combination of buses, coaches, minibuses and maxitaxis. Some timetables are available at Autogari (www.autogari.ro).

Departure Tax

None.

Documentation

A national driving licence or International Driving Permit are required, as is Green Card insurance if you're travelling from outside the EU. Police carry out frequent checks, so observe the speed limit and carry relevant documents.

Getting Around By Rail

Bucharest's main station is the Gara de Nord on Calea Grivitei. CFR (tel: +40 21 9521; www.cfrcalatori.ro) runs several different types of train, varying in speed from the slow personal to the faster accelerat, rapid and express trains, and the more expensive, modern and comfortable Inter-City. Rural services have a way to go - poor onward connections make these an undesirable choice for travellers to the countryside.

You must reserve seats in advance on express routes. There are no platforms of any great height in Romania, making entering and alighting a little difficult for the elderly or infirm.

Regulations

Tolls are charges on motorways and main roads, payable in Euros. Drivers must buy a toll badge or rovinieta; these are available for one week or one month at border points, post offices and at most petrol stations (www.roviniete.ro).

Children under 12 are not allowed to travel in the front seat and front seat passengers must wear a seat belt. Speed limits are 50kph (30mph) in built-up areas, 90-100kph (56-62mph) on main roads, and 130kph (81mph) on motorways. Car drivers need to have a fire extinguisher and two breakdown triangles in their car at all times.

Getting Around By Road

The majority of tourists travel by road in Romania, although speeding, overcrowded streets and double-parked cars are common hazards.

Road Classification

Roads are ranked by importance, with A designating a motorway, DX an expressway, DN a national road, DJ a country road and DC a local road.

Road Quality

Road conditions vary widely throughout Romania. Major streets in larger cities and major intercity roads are in fair to good condition, with DN (Drum National) well maintained. Other roads such as DJ (Drum Judetean) are in poor repair, badly lit, narrow and often do not have marked lanes. Drivers need to be alert for horse-drawn carts and livestock, especially at night.

Side Of Road

r

Taxi

You can hail inexpensive metered taxis in the street or call them from hotels. Although most drivers are honest, it's advisable to agree prices beforehand, especially at the airport.

Urban Travel

Most cities offer efficient and inexpensive bus, trolleybus or tram transport. Bucharest has a good bus and tram system and a metro. You can buy tickets in advance from agents, and there are stamping machines on board buses and trains. Passes and reloadable smartcards are available. A separate minibus network also exists.

Getting Around By Water

It's easy to explore the Danube Delta by boat. Most trips and cruises depart from the ancient city of Tulcea and sail to Sulina.

Travel Advice

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance. Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice.

Get travel advice updates

Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated. 

Follow and contact FCDO:   

• travel advice on X

• travel advice on Facebook

• Travel Aware on Instagram

This information is for people travelling on a full 'British citizen' passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government's understanding of the current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Romania set and enforce entry rules. If you're not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Romanian Embassy in the UK.

Passport validity requirements

Romania follows Schengen area rules. Your passport must have: 

• a 'date of issue' less than 10 years before the date you arrive – if you renewed your passport before 1 October 2018, it may have a date of issue that is more than 10 years ago
• an 'expiry date' at least 3 months after the date you plan to leave the Schengen area

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Carry your passport if you travel from Romania to other Schengen area countries. Border guards will check it if you cross land or river borders into Bulgaria or Hungary, both are in the Schengen area. 

There are no routine checks when travelling by air or sea within the Schengen area, but carry your passport in case you're asked for it.  

Visa requirements  

You can travel without a visa to the Schengen area, which includes Romania, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This applies if you travel: 

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
• for short-term studies or training

The requirements for working in Romania are different.

If you're travelling to other Schengen countries as well, make sure your whole visit is within the 90-day limit. Visits to Schengen countries in the 180 days before you travel count towards your 90 days. If you overstay the 90-day visa-free limit, you may be banned from entering Schengen countries for up to 3 years.

If you're a visitor, border guards will look at your entry and exit stamps to check you have not overstayed the 90-day visa-free limit for the Schengen area. 

If your passport is missing a stamp, show evidence of when and where you entered or left the Schengen area (for example, boarding passes or tickets) and ask the border guards to add the date and location in your passport.

You may also need to:

• show a return or onward ticket
• prove that you have enough money for your stay

Staying longer than 90 days in a 180-day period 

To stay longer, check which type of visa or work permit you need with the Romanian Embassy in the UK. 

If you're in Romania with a residence permit or long-stay visa, this does not count towards your 90-day visa-free limit. 

Read about passport stamping if you live in Romania.

Vaccine requirements

For details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro's Romania guide.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Romania (in Romanian). You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Taking food into Romania

You cannot take meat, milk or products containing them into EU countries. There are some exceptions such as powdered baby milk, baby food and special foods or pet feed required for medical reasons.

Taking money into Romania

Declare cash or travellers cheques if the value is 10,000 euros or more. You will get a certified declaration to show you brought it in with you. If you do not, your money could be seized when you leave. 

Leaving Romania with children aged 17 and under

To leave Romania with a child aged 17 and under who holds Romanian citizenship, you may need to show notarised parental consent if:

• you are not the child's parent
• you are a parent but the other parent is not travelling with you

For more information, contact the Romanian Embassy in the UK.

For a list of the public notaries, see the National Union of Public Notaries from Romania website.

Terrorism

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times. 

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.

Terrorism in Romania

Terrorist attacks in Romania cannot be ruled out.

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals.

Political situation and demonstrations

There is widespread military activity in neighbouring Ukraine. See Ukraine travel advice.

Public demonstrations are common. Marches and gatherings are mostly peaceful and well-policed, but take extra care in crowded places. Demonstrations, marches and gatherings can attract violence. Monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

Crime

Protecting your belongings

Be alert to petty theft in large towns, especially Bucharest. Thieves use distraction techniques and can carry out organised attacks in groups. Take care of your passport, money and personal belongings, particularly:

• near money exchanges and hotels
• on public transport, especially to the airport
• in main railway stations
• inside airport terminals

Criminals have copied credit or debit cards in some bars and restaurants.

Use a hotel safe for valuables where possible and carry a copy of your passport.

Drink spiking 

There is a risk of drink spiking in bars and clubs. Be careful not to take drinks from strangers or leave your drinks unattended.

Laws and cultural differences

Illegal drugs penalties

There is zero tolerance for drugs-related offences. Romanian authorities treat all drug offences very seriously. If convicted, you should expect a prison sentence. Increasing numbers of people, including foreign visitors, have been arrested and received lengthy sentences for drug offences at music festivals in Romania.

Using cameras in secure areas

Most airports and military bases have signs banning photography. If you're not sure if photography is allowed, ask permission.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex relationships are legal in Romania. There are active LGBT+ communities and events in Romania, though the majority of LGBT+ people are not open. Find information on LGBT+ issues in Romania and read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Transport risks

Road travel

If you are planning to drive in Romania, see information on driving abroad and check the rules of the road in the RAC's Romania guide. The guide lists driving regulations and other legal requirements you need to be aware of, such as:

• carrying a first aid kit, fire extinguisher, red warning triangle and a fluorescent jacket
• using winter tyres from 1 November to 1 March

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in Romania. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or get the correct version of the international driving permit (IDP) as well.

Hire car companies often have stricter requirements for their customers, such as a year of driving experience, minimum age and holding an IDP.

Check if you need a UK sticker to drive your car outside the UK.

Drink-driving is a serious offence in Romania. If you are tested and found to have any alcohol in your system, you may get a fine and possible imprisonment.

There is also guidance on driving if you're living in Romania.

Driving conditions

Road conditions are variable and  roads can be in a bad state of repair. Driving standards can be poor. Look out for:

• double-parked cars
• people suddenly braking or swerving to avoid potholes
• horse-drawn carts, livestock and stray dogs in rural areas

Accidents and vehicle damage

You must get a report at the scene of an accident in Romania. If your vehicle is damaged before you arrive in the country, ask a Romanian customs officer or police officer to write a report on the damage. Doing this will help you avoid problems when you leave Romania.

Toll roads

You must pay a road toll 'rovinieta' to use the national roads. Buy a vignette (sticker) at border points and at most petrol stations. If you do not display the sticker, you may get a heavy fine.

Taxis    

Most taxis in Bucharest should list prices on the side of the vehicle and display a company name. Taxi drivers sometimes overcharge foreign visitors. Taxi apps such as Uber and Bolt are generally reliable.

Extreme weather and natural disasters   

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards. 

You may receive alerts on your mobile phone from the Romanian government in the event of extreme weather, a natural disaster or other emergency. These are in Romanian and English, and you should follow the authorities' instructions.

Earthquakes

Romania is in a seismically active area and tremors happen regularly. The last major earthquake was in 1977. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about  what to do before, during and after an earthquake.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Dial 112 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you're referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccinations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip:

• check latest vaccine recommendations for Romania
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you'll face in Romania.

Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Romania. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.

Medication

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro.

Healthcare in Romania

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Romania where some staff will speak English. 

Health insurance cards

To get medically necessary state healthcare in Romania, you need a Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) or a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).   

The NHS's getting healthcare abroad webpage has details about:  

• how to apply for a GHIC
• how to get temporary cover if you lose your card or it does not arrive in time
• who qualifies for a new EHIC instead of a GHIC
• what treatment counts as medically necessary

A GHIC or EHIC is not an alternative to travel insurance. You may have costs your GHIC or EHIC does not cover, including:  

• changes to travel and accommodation bookings
• additional standard costs for treatment
• medical repatriation to the UK
• treatment that is ruled non-urgent
• private healthcare
• private clinics

There is also guidance on healthcare if you're living in Romania.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Romania

Telephone: 112 (ambulance, fire, police)

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking lawyers, funeral directors and translators and interpreters in Romania
• dealing with a death in Romania
• being arrested in Romania
• getting help if you're a victim of crime
• what to do if you're in hospital
• if you're affected by a crisis, such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO 

Help abroad  

See how to get help from the UK government abroad including in an emergency. 

Help in the UK  

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.  

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)  

Find out about call charges

Get travel advice updates  

Sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.  

Follow and contact FCDO: 

• travel advice on X

• travel advice on Facebook

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in Romania on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

Vaccinations

Title	Special Precautions
Yellow Fever	No
Typhoid	Yes
Tetanus	Yes
Rabies	Sometimes*
Malaria	No
Hepatitis A	Yes
Diphtheria	Yes

Overview:

Medical facilities in Romania are poor and there is a serious shortage of basic medical supplies and qualified personnel. Take particular care if travelling in rural areas, as there have been cases of hepatitis B and HIV transmission through insufficiently sterilised equipment. If necessary, your local embassy or consulate should be able to recommend a physician. European travellers carrying the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) are entitled to free or reduced cost medical care. In the UK, these are available from health centres or via the Department of Health (www.dh.gov.uk). Nationals of countries who do not have a reciprocal health agreement with Romania are expected to pay immediate cash for health services. Health insurance is strongly advised.

Vaccinations Note:

* Vaccination advised for those at high risk or visiting rural areas.

Food Drink:

Mains water is normally chlorinated, and whilst relatively safe, may cause abdominal upsets; bottled water is available. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption. Local meat, poultry, seafood, fruit and vegetables are generally considered safe to eat.

Other Risks:

Hepatitis C and tuberculosis occur and hepatitis B is endemic. Stray dogs may carry the tick-borne African typhus disease and rabies is also present. If bitten, seek medical advice without delay. There have been confirmed outbreaks of avian influenza (bird flu) in the Danube Delta, Transylvania and Bucharest. The Romanian authorities have taken measures to contain the outbreaks and no human infections or deaths have been reported. In 2012, several cases of the West Nile Virus were reported by the Romanian National Institute of Health, and travellers to the Danube Delta are recommended to wear long-sleeved shirts and trousers and to apply insect repellent.

Currency Information:

New Leu (RON; symbol (plural) Lei) = 100 bani. Notes are in denominations of Lei500, 100, 50, 10, 5 and 1. Coins are in denominations of Bani50, 10, 5 and 1. (Old notes were in denominations of Lei1,000,000, 500,000, 100,000, 50,000 and 10,000 and coins in denominations of Lei5,000, 1,000, 500 and 100.)

Credit Cards:

American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are accepted by large hotels, car hire firms and some restaurants and shops.

ATMs:

ATMs (bancomat) accepting MasterCard and Visa can be found in main banks, airports and shopping centres but should not be relied upon as a sole source of cash.

Travellers Cheques:

Like credit and debit cards, these are usually only useful in hotels and for obtaining cash at the bank or selected exchange offices. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take traveller's cheques in US Dollars or Euros.

Banking Hours:

Mon-Fri 0900-1300.

Currency Restrictions:

The import and export of local currency is prohibited. The import and export of foreign currency is limited to €10,000.

Currency Exchange:

It is recommended that visitors bring Euros, as these can be easily exchanged by shops, restaurants and hotels. Pounds Sterling can be easily exchanged in most resorts. All hard foreign currencies can be exchanged at banks, larger hotels and airports and at authorised exchange offices (Birou de Schimb Valutar). Rates can vary from one place to another, so visitors are advised to shop around for the best rate of exchange. Exchanges on the black market are made frequently, but visitors are advised to exchange money through proper exchange channels and to receive a currency exchange receipt, as certain services require visitors to show the receipt as proof of having made at least one financial transaction.

Currencies

Code	Symbol
RON	Lei

Exchange Rates

4.53

5.39

4.35

Language

Romanian is the official language. Some Hungarian and German are spoken in border areas, while mainly French and some English are spoken by those connected with the tourist industry.

Overview:

Public holidays are listed here.

.

List Of Public Holidays

Title	Start Date	To Be Confirmed
New Year's Day	2024-01-01 00:00:00	0
Epiphany	2024-01-06 00:00:00	0
Labour Day	2024-05-01 00:00:00	0
Orthodox Easter Monday	2024-05-06 00:00:00	0
Whit Monday	2024-05-20 00:00:00	0
National Day	2024-12-01 00:00:00	0
Christmas Day	2024-12-25 00:00:00	0
Second Day of Christmas	2024-12-26 00:00:00	0

Overview:

Romania is within the European Union. If you are travelling from outside of the EU, you are entitled to buy fragrance, skincare, cosmetics, Champagne, wine, selected spirits, fashion accessories, gifts and souvenirs - all at tax-free equivalent prices.

Romania’s duty-free allowance for travellers from EU countries:

If you are over 17 years old, you are free to buy and take goods with you when travelling between EU countries, provided that you have paid tax on these goods and they are for your own use (not for sale). However, if you bring in more than the following, customs officials are likely to question you:

• 800 cigarettes or 400 cigarillos or 200 cigars or 1kg of tobacco.
• 90L of wine of which a maximum of 60L can be sparkling wine.
• 10L of alcoholic beverages stronger than 22% or 20L of fortified wine or other liqueurs up to 22%.

Beware that each EU country has different rules for travellers under 17 years old. Please check before you travel.

Romania’s duty-free allowance for travellers from non-EU countries:

If you are arriving from a non-EU country, the following goods may be imported into Romania by travellers with a minimum age of 17 years without incurring customs duty:

• 40 cigarettes or 20 cigarillos (max. 3 grams each) or 10 cigars or 50g of tobacco. You may combine any of these tobacco products provided you do not exceed the total limit.
• 4L of wine and 16L of beer and 1L of spirits over 22% volume or 2L of alcoholic beverages less than 22% volume or a proportional mix of these products provided the total limit is not exceeded.
• Other goods up to the value of €430 for air and sea travellers and €300 for other travellers (reduced to €150 for children under 15).

.

Banned Imports:

Ammunition, weapons, explosives, narcotics and counterfeit goods.

There are restrictions on the import of meat, fish and dairy products from outside the EU.

You must obtain a permit to import protected species. 

There is a ban on the import of the following goods from the Russian Federation into the EU: diamonds, gold, jewelry, cigarettes, cosmetics, seafood (e.g. caviar), spirits (e.g. vodka), shoes, clothing and smartwatches.

Telephone:

Public telephones are widely available and can be used for direct international calls; most require a calling card. Hotels often impose a high service charge for long-distance calls, but usually do not charge for local calls.

Mobile Telephone:

Roaming agreements exist with many international mobile phone companies. Coverage is good around Bucharest and Romania's other large towns but can be variable elsewhere – particularly in upland areas. Local mobile phone hire is available.

Internet:

Wi-Fi is becoming increasingly common across the country and is ubiquitous in big cities. Failing that, internet cafés are fairly common in cities and most large towns.

Post

The Romanian postal service is reliable but still rather slow, although a recent move to privatise the Romania National Post Office Company could transform this. Airmail to Western Europe takes one week.

Post Office Hours:

Mon-Fri 0730-2000, Sat 0800-1400.

Media:

Romania's media are among the most lively in the region. The 1991 constitution upholds freedom of expression, but prohibits 'defamation of the country'. Private radio stations began to appear in 1990; over 100 of them now broadcast alongside state-run Radio Romania. A boom in the newspaper market followed the 1989 revolution, but many were later forced to close owing to rising costs. Daily papers include Adevarul, Libertatea, Evenimentul Zillei, Romania Libera and Jurnalul National, which has English-language pages. English newspapers and publications include Bucharest Business Week, Nine O'Clock and Vivid.able television is popular, with more than 75% of households now connected to multi-channel cable or satellite TV systems.

Visit a market

The piatas or markets are farmers' markets where fresh produce can be bought. Pick up some home made cheeses and breads, find a scenic spot and have yourself a picnic afterwards.

Visit the Carpathian Mountains

TheThe Carpathian Mountains, a densely forested mountainous area, is ideal for hiking. In winter, resorts such as Poiana Brasov and Predeal offer some of the best skiing in Eastern Europe - or go bob-sleighing at Semenic and Sinaia. Recently, the mountains have also garnered a reputation among cyclists and there's a huge network of upland tracks to explore.

Bucharest

This beautiful old capital was decimated by Nicolae Ceauşescu's programme of systemisation between the 1960s and 1990s, but the historic centre is still a bastion of old world charm. Wander around some of the most important streets in Bucharest: Calea Victoriei (Victory Road) which holds the The Vernescu House and Boulevards Gh. Magheru, Carol I, Calea Mosilor, Calea Dorobantilor and Soseaua Kiseleff.

Wildlife on the Danube

Cruise along the Danube Delta, to see over 300 species of birds and foxes, otters, wildcats and boars in a vast expanse of watery wilderness. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and biosphere reservation and altogether 3,460 species of animal can be spotted here – not to mention 1,700 plant species. Most Danube River cruises leave from Tulcea, which also has a museum dedicated to the Danube Delta. See Romania Tourism (www.romaniatourism.com/tulcea.html) for more information.

Pamper yourself

With its curative thermal springs, salt waters and healing mud, Lake Techirghiol is one of Romania's premier spa destinations. Bathing in the waters of the lake is said to heal everything from rheumatism and arthritis to peripheral nervous system diseases, and there is a huge range of spa treatments available in the nearby town.

Black Sea Coast

Allegedly the place where Jason and the Argonauts landed after finding the Golden Fleece, Romania's Black Sea Coast is fast becoming a tourism hotspot. It's dotted with small resort towns such as Eforie, Jupiter, Neptun, Saturn, Venus and Mangalia, where you can swim, try watersports or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.

Fagaras mountain range

A magnet for walkers and adrenaline junkies, this superb mountain range has fourteen peaks over 2,500m (8,200 ft) and a succession of spectacular alpine lakes. If trekking or mountaineering sound like too much hard work, you can take in the scenery through a drive along the Transfagaras Road – Romania's highest asphalt road, and undoubtedly one of the most scenic routes in the country.

Cycle

The terrain in Romania is perfect for mountain biking, in fact there are numerous outfitters which cater specifically to cycling holidays. Trails range from novice to advanced, however most are geared towards cycling enthusiasts.

Maramures

Check out the traditional villages such as Budesti, Sirbi and Calinesti nestled in the picturesque rural idyll of Maramures (www.visitmaramures.ro). Nature lovers will love the volcanic mountains, waterfalls and glacier lakes around Creasta Cocosului reserve, while culture junkies can admire the UNESCO-designated wooden churches and the unique ‘Merry Cemetery’ at Sapanta.

Berca mud volcanoes

This awe-inspiring landscape of bubbling mud is like nothing else you'll see in Romania. Located near Buzau, the Mud Volcanoes have been designated a geological and botanical reserve and are fuelled by natural gas eruptions 3km (2 miles) below the surface. Some of the mud craters have reached more than 6m (20ft) in height, but are perfectly safe to view.

Traditional entertainment

Catch some traditional folk music and dancing; shows can be seen in many hotels and restaurants.

Sighisoara

The exquisite medieval town of Sighisoara is a perfectly intact 15th century gem with nine towers, narrow passageways and cobbled streets, burgher houses and ornate churches. Sighisoara is also the birthplace of Vlad Draculea, nicknamed Vlad the Impaler. One of the best-preserved inhabited citadels in Europe, it's no surprise that the town has been designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

Sibiu

Visit Sibiu (www.sibiu.ro), the chief city of the Transylvanian Saxons. Much of the four walls and 40 towers remain, and among its pretty blue, red, apricot and green painted houses are some of Romania's best museums. Don’t miss the Brukenthal National Museum (www.brukenthalmuseum.ro), which houses an impressive range of traditional and contemporary art.

Snagov

This remote commune is a nature reservation and history buff’s paradise, with the main attraction being the Snagov Monastery (www.snagov.ro) – allegedly one of the burial sites of Vlad the Impaler. The monastery sits on an island in Snagov Lake and is linked to the village itself by bridge and boat.

Painted Monasteries

It's worth the trek to the Painted Monasteries of Bucovina (Voronet, Sucevita, Moldovita and Humor) in Northern Moldavia. These UNESCO World Heritage Sites are painted with frescoes both inside and outside and have been preserved in excellent condition since medieval times. 

Biertan

See Transylvania's numerous Saxon fortified churches, including the Biertan Church, which stands on top of a hill overlooking the village of Biertan and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The village itself still preserves a large Saxon community and boasts some world-class examples of Saxon architecture from the medieval period.

Bran Castle

Let imagination run wild at Bran Castle, the legendary abode of the medieval king known as Vlad the Impaler, who helped inspire Bram Stoker's novel, Dracula (www.draculascastle.com).

Ceausescu's Palace of Parliament

In Bucharest, admire the colossal size and exceptional facilities of Ceausescu's Palace of Parliament, which rises out of the city like a giant wedding cake. It is the second largest building in the world, after the Pentagon and one of Romania’s premier tourist attractions. It also houses the National Museum of Contemporary Art (www.mnac.ro).

Constanta

Visit the Greek/Byzantine port of Constanta, founded in the sixth century BC and veer inland to interesting archaeological sites including the ancient Greek city ruins of Histria, Tomis and Callatis (www.constanta.ro). In the city itself, you'll find enough museums, ancient churches and historical monuments to satisfy even the most ardent culture vulture.

Museum of History of the Jewish Community

Housed in an old Bucharest synagogue, this museum is dedicated to the history of Jews in Romania as well as in memory of the Holocaust. On display are artifacts such as a collection of books written and illustrated by Romanian Jews, important paintings, ritual objects as well as anti-Semitic propaganda.

Overview

Like most countries, Romania has its fair share of generic shopping malls – but it’s far more rewarding to shop with the locals at your nearest market. Even the smallest Romanian village usually has a regular market, and in some areas wares are still transported from place to place by horse-drawn wagon. Local cheese, fruit and fresh vegetables are all daily staples, while some markets also sell national specialities such as embroideries, pottery, porcelain, silverware, carpets, ceramics, crystal, glassware, fabrics, wool jumpers, woodcarvings, metal, leather goods, rugs, glass paintings and silk dresses. Transactions at markets almost always take place in cash – and don’t be afraid to haggle if the price isn’t right.

Bucharest is the country’s shopping hub. As well as several city-centre malls, it has a colourful flower market, regular arts and crafts events and a thriving antiques industry. Nose out a gem in Str Hanul cu Tei, a narrow cobbled alley in the historic town centre lined with galleries and antiques shops. Or, if your taste runs to luxury, take a stroll down Calea Victoriei, where you’ll find an expensive selection of jewellery and designer boutiques.

Prices in Romania have crept up over the past few years, but it’s still possible to pick up high-quality, handmade jewellery for a song in some areas. Iași’s Hala Centrala has dozens of jewellery stalls – for a traditional, low-priced souvenir, look for pieces crafted from Romanian amber set in Turkish silver. On the other side of the country, Timișoara is famous for its arts and crafts scene and hosts a selection of shops selling local artwork, ceramics and handcrafted jewellery.

Opening Hours

Mon-Sat 0900-1800, although this may vary according to season and area. In urban areas, supermarkets can remain open for much of the night.

Overview

Romanian cuisine is an eclectic mix of different cultural influences, with elements from Turkey, Germany, Hungary all easily discernible. Traditionally, Romanian food tends to be stodgy and meat-based, revolving around dishes such as ciolan afumat (smoked pork knuckle with beans), Mămăligă (cornmeal polenta) and carnaţi de pleşcoi (mutton sausages).Breakfasts almost always include eggs, either soft-boiled, hard-boiled, fried or scrambled, and omelettes filled with either cheese, ham or mushrooms are also frequently served.

The highlight of a traditional Romanian restaurant meal is usually the appetiser dish, most likely a bowl of sour soup called ciorbă. Pork is the main meat used in Romanian cuisine while cabbage is a culinary favourite and is often used in soups and salads.

In rural areas, it’s unusual to find restaurants serving anything other than traditional Romanian cuisine. In Bucharest, however, and in bigger cities such as Cluj-Napoca, the culinary scene is far more international, plus there are the odd gastronomic gems where the standard far surpasses the prices. 

Regional Specialities

Tipping

A 5 to 10% tip is customary in restaurants.

Drinking Age

The legal age for drinking in a bar is 18.

Hotels

Visitors are advised to book accommodation in advance, particularly for summertime visits to coastal resorts. Room prices in lower-end hotels in Romania are very reasonable compared to Western European prices, whereas 4- and 5-star hotels are comparable in both standards and price. Breakfast normally costs extra. Romania's first boutique hotels have opened in Transylvania. For further information, contact the Romanian Tourist Office (www.romaniatourism.com).

Camping Caravaning

There are 69 campsites licensed by the Romanian Ministry of Tourism, many located next to picturesque rivers and at affordable prices. Camping holidays in Romania are very popular for families with young children.

Other

History

The region of Romania has spent much of its history being shunted to and fro between various foreign powers. The Romans, Goths, Huns, Bulgars and Slavs all laid claim to the area before it was annexed by the Turkish Ottomans in the 15th century. It wasn’t until 1878 that Romania was recognised by the rest of Europe as an independent state.

It joined the Allied cause in WWI, but was occupied by the Germans in 1940 and placed in the hands of General Ion Antonescu, who joined the Nazis against the Soviet Union. In 1944, with Soviet forces about to occupy the country, Antonescu was overthrown and replaced by a coalition of communists, liberals and social democrats.

The communists established their political hegemony within the government and in 1947 the monarchy was deposed and the Romanian People's Republic declared. Nicolae Ceausescu assumed the post of First Secretary of the Romanian Communist Party in 1965 and under his rule the regime became increasingly oppressive. Ceausescu destroyed much of the beautiful historic centre of Bucharest, replacing it with bland concrete apartment blocks and a sprawling palace – the House of the Republic. He held power until the dramatic, bloody and largely unpredicted revolution during Christmas 1989.

This was a turning point in Romanian history. After several days of violent protests and fighting, during which around 1,000 people were killed, the president and his wife were captured, quickly tried and executed. The new government, under the provisional leadership of Ion Iliescu (the former Communist Central Committee Secretary) began the slow and painful process of preparing Romania for peaceful multi-party elections.

Today, Romania is a fully-fledged and cohesive democratic state. Although regular changes of government have held back the country’s development and economic progress has been patchy, the country is now a member of both NATO and the European Union and in 2008 it hosted its first NATO summit. Political and economic unrest in 2012 threatened a crisis, but the corner has been turned and the country is experiencing much more positive growth than many of Europe’s leading nations.

Did you know?
• Romania celebrates Great Union Day on 1 December to mark its joining with Transylvania.
• In 1986 Steaua Bucharest became the first Eastern European team to win football’s European Cup.
• The Dacia car factory in Mioveni is Europe’s fifth largest, producing more than 500,000 units a year.

Religion

87% Romanian Orthodox, with Greek and Roman Catholic, Reformed/Lutheran, Unitarian, Muslim and Jewish minorities.

Social Conventions

A handshake is the most common form of greeting, but Romanian men may kiss a woman's hand when being introduced. Mr or Mrs should be used when greeting someone for the first time. Visitors should follow normal European courtesies on social occasions. Dress tends to be rather conservative but casual wear is suitable. Beachwear should not be worn away from the beach or poolside.

If visiting a home, a small wrapped gift should be given to the host, such as flowers or chocolates (to women only), wine or liquor. Flowers should be given as a gift in odd numbers only. Many Romanians are smokers and gifts of Western cigarettes are greatly appreciated. Other well-appreciated gifts include toiletries.

The Romanian government bans smoking in every public place, but, as in many countries in Eastern Europe, smokers have little respect for non-smokers and for smoking laws. Smoking is forbidden on planes, on buses and on some trains. Luxury hotels have designated no-smoking floors but very few restaurants have no-smoking sections.

Military installations should not be photographed. Some tourist attractions require visitors to pay a fee (sometimes hefty) for taking photographs.

Best Time To Visit:

Romania is a great year-round tourist destination. The best times to visit in terms of climate are the end of April to the beginning of July and from end of August to the end of October as temperatures are mild and pleasant. Summers can be hot especially in Southern Romania, including Bucharest, but along the Black Sea Coast, sea breezes offer moderate temperatures. Winters are coldest in the Carpathian Mountains where there is snow from December through to April. Snow also falls throughout most of the country during winter.

The ski season in Romania runs from December to March, although high resorts such as Stana de Vale often remain open until late April. Prices are cheaper at the beginning and the end of the season, with Christmas often the busiest time.  

On the Black Sea Coast, tourism reaches its height between June and August and temperatures during the summer months can reach a sizzling 40°C. Look for deals in May and September, when the weather is still balmy but the season isn’t yet in full swing. 

Other seasonal activities include bird-watching (from mid-April to mid-May in the Danube Delta) and wine-tasting, which focuses around a series of festivals in September and October.

.

Required Clothing

Lightweights are worn in summer on the coast and in low inland areas. Warmer clothes are needed in winter and throughout the year in the uplands. Rainwear is recommended throughout the year.

Dialing Code:

+40

Area(sq km):

238391

Population:

19.237.691

Population Density(per sq km):

91

Population Year:

2020

EU Member:

Yes

Main emergency number

112