Visit Romania - The Land of Legends and Landscapes

General Information

- Capital: Bucharest
- Area: 238,397 km²
- Population: Approx. 19 million
- Currency: Romanian Leu (RON) (~0.20 EUR)
- Languages: Romanian (English is widely spoken in tourist areas)

Visa Requirements

All visitors to Romania must:
- Hold a passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry.
- Have an onward or return ticket.
- Show proof of accommodation and sufficient funds for the stay.
- Many nationalities qualify for visa-free entry for up to 90 days.

Visa-Free Entry for Citizens of:

EU, UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, UAE. Schengen visa holders can also enter Romania without an additional visa. Other nationalities may require a visa from a Romanian consulate.

About Romania

Romania is a country of mystical castles, medieval towns, and breathtaking natural beauty.
Famous for Dracula’s legend, the Carpathian Mountains, and the Black Sea coast, Romania offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and adventure.

Climate

Romania has a temperate-continental climate, with four distinct seasons:
- Spring (March - May): Mild temperatures, ideal for sightseeing.
- Summer (June - August): Warm and sunny, perfect for hiking and the seaside.
- Autumn (September - November): A great time for wine tourism and colorful landscapes.
- Winter (December - February): Cold and snowy, ideal for skiing in the Carpathians.

Main Attractions

- Bran Castle – The legendary Dracula’s Castle in Transylvania.
- Peleș Castle – A stunning Neo-Renaissance royal residence.
- Sighișoara – A well-preserved medieval town and UNESCO site.
- Bucharest – The vibrant capital with historic palaces and lively nightlife.
- Transfagarasan Highway – One of the world’s most scenic mountain roads.
- Merry Cemetery (Săpânța) – A unique and colorful cemetery.
- Painted Monasteries of Bukovina – UNESCO-listed Orthodox monasteries.
- Danube Delta – A paradise for birdwatching and boat trips.
- Corvin Castle – A Gothic fairytale castle.
- Sibiu & Brașov – Charming medieval towns with Saxon heritage.

Transportation

Romania has a well-developed transport network:
- Domestic Flights – Available between major cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and Timișoara.
- Trains – Affordable but slow; best for scenic journeys.
- Buses & Coaches – Faster and more convenient than trains for intercity travel.
- Taxis & Ride-Hailing Apps – Bolt and Uber are available in major cities.
- Car Rentals – Ideal for exploring the countryside and Transylvania.

Must-Try Food & Drinks

Food:
- Sarmale – Cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat and rice.
- Mămăligă – Romanian polenta, often served with cheese and sour cream.
- Mititei (Mici) – Grilled minced meat sausages.
- Ciorbă de burtă – A sour tripe soup, a Romanian specialty.
- Zacuscă – A vegetable spread made with roasted eggplant and peppers.
- Papanasi – Fried doughnuts topped with sour cream and jam.

Drinks:
- Țuică – A strong plum brandy, Romania’s national drink.
- Fetească Neagră Wine – A famous local red wine variety.
- Vișinată – A homemade cherry liqueur.
- Socată – A refreshing elderflower drink.

Travel Tips for Romania

1. Entry & Visa: Most travelers enjoy visa-free entry for up to 90 days.
2. Best Time to Visit: May - October for warm weather and outdoor activities.
3. Transportation: Trains are scenic but slow; buses are faster for long distances.
4. Local Etiquette: Romanians are friendly; a polite greeting is appreciated.
5. Money: Credit cards are accepted, but cash is useful in rural areas.
6. Food: Try Sarmale, Mititei, and Papanasi.
7. Shopping: Visit local markets for handcrafted textiles, ceramics, and wine.
8. Safety: Romania is very safe, but watch out for pickpockets in busy areas.
9. What to Avoid: Avoid exchanging money on the street; use official exchange offices.
10. Cultural Experiences: Attend a traditional folk festival, visit a shepherd’s farm, or explore fortified churches.

Summary

Romania is a hidden European gem, offering a mix of medieval charm, natural beauty, and vibrant traditions.
Whether you’re exploring Dracula’s Castle, hiking in the Carpathians, or relaxing in the Danube Delta, Romania is an unforgettable destination.