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Bran Castle, top Romania attraction

Best Things to Do in Romania

Iconic Attractions & Hidden Gem Travel Experiences

Romania

Land of castles, mountains, and medieval lore, Romania is a must visit country, still somewhat under the radar when it comes to travel in the Central European region. Though it has always been popular among fans of Bram Stoker's creation, Dracula, there is much to see beyond Transylvania! Let Stride help you find the perfect trip.

Top Romania Experiences

Visiting Bran Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle, and looking out at the old stone wall that used to divide Transylvania from the Austro-Hungarian empire.

Wandering the serpentine cobbled streets of old town Bucharest.

Walking around the walled the town of Sighisoara and learning the history of it's creation.

Admiring Peleş Castle, widely considered one of the best preserved and most beautiful castles in Europe.

Seeing the Painted Monasteries.

Visiting the open-air Village Museum outside Bucharest, to see homes transplanted from all around Romania and presented in their original forms.

Journeying to soak up sun on the shores of the Black Sea - which has neither black sand nor water!

Hiking among the jagged Carpathian Mountains to enjoy some fresh air.

Taking a drive along Transfagarasan, one of the world’s most adventurous roads. 

Cruising down the Danube River to see the Romanian countryside much as it has been for the past few centuries.

Breathing in the fresh, salty air of the Turda Salt Mines

Witnessing the magnificence of the wild bisons that roam Vânători Neamț Nature Park

Eating storceag, a sturgeon soup boiled with potatoes and vegetable, topped off with egg yolk, sour cream, and a drizzle of lemon. Best eaten with company!

Driving the Transfagaran Road — “the best driving road in the world”

Experiencing the authentic and unadulterated taste of fruits at a local food market

Skiing or hiking in Sinaia

Taking photos of the wild birds found at the Danube Delta

Walking through the fantastically intricate rooms of Palatul culturii

Tasting the traditional and authentic flavors of Romania at Lacrimi și Sfinți in Bucharest

Travelling through the Greek, Roman, and Ottoman empire in the historical city of Constanța

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Things to do in Romania - Expert’s guide

1. Bran Castle

Bran Castle in Romania, top tourist attraction

Did you even really see Romania if you didn't go to Bran castle? Otherwise known as Dracula's castle, this looming medieval fortress is set against a dramatic backdrop of the Carpathian valley. Unfortunately, if you’re looking to go to the actual Dracula castle, you would have to head to Poienari Castle. Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration for the iconic character, lived there during his reign.

Although the castle gained popularity for its pop cultural references, it’s so much more than that! Having been built in the 13th century, the castle is steeped in history.

It was built to defend Transylvania from the south — specifically from the Ottomans. Currently, the iconic attraction belongs to the Romanian Royal Family, and is open to the public. Enjoy of a cup of tea on the castle’s grounds as you absorb the history and beauty around you.

2. Danube Delta

Bird migration in the Danube Delta of Romania

From the steep peaks of the Carpathian mountain range, to the icy-blue glacial lakes — Romania is home to several natural wonders.

Among all of the natural attractions Romania has to offer, perhaps the most diverse is the Danube Delta. Wildlife lovers can rejoice at this UNESCO awarded World Heritage site, as you take in the breathtaking sceneries of the delta’s picturesque canals, lakes, and marshes. The region is a bit difficult to navigate, so you may want to hire a local guide with a boat.

Visit the Danube Delta between April and October, when you can witness one of nature’s miracles. During this time, over 300 species of birds nest and flock here to breed. The delta is wildlife paradise — don’t miss out!

3. Turda Salt Mine

Inside the Turda Salt Mine in Romania

Some of us like to go to the park for fresh air and relaxation — Romanians go to salt mines.

Breathing in salty air is known amongst Romanians to be healthy for your respiratory system, and so salt mines have been transformed into recreational and wellness centers across Romania.

Head down 400 feet and dedicate 3-4 hours of relaxation at the Turda Salt Mine, where you can walk through its’ caverns and corridors and learn more about salt production. Fancy something a little more active? You can row or paddle boat in the lake, ride on the Ferris wheel, or even play ping-pong or mini-golf at Turda Salt Mine. Be careful though — you might get distracted from playing by the stunning caverns that house this underground wonderland!

4. Palatul culturii in Iași

Horse statue and clock tower at lasi Palace of Culture Romania

This architectural masterpiece lies in the heart of Iași… literally. The city is designed so that all roads lead back to the Palatul Culturii — the Palace of Culture. Be taken away by its enchanting marble floors, stained-glass windows, looming staircases, and intricate chandeliers.

The neo-gothic palace houses four museums that showcase unique treasures from Romania’s rich history. It is also the location of several extravagant events throughout the year.

Photos cannot capture the magnificence of this place. Be sure to set aside a full day so that you can fully immerse yourself, and live out your fairytale dreams!

5. Transfagarasan Road

Winding Tranfagarasan road in the heart of Romania

Ever wondered what the “best driving road in the world” is? According to Top Gear’s Jeremy Clarkson, the Transfagarasan Road wins this title. Located 3 hours north of Bucharest, the winding road stretches for 56 miles.

It’s usually closed from October to May due to the weather, but when it’s not snowing buckets, hikers, cyclists, motorbikers, and drivers can enjoy the steep hairpin turns, sharp descents, and long, winding curves of the road.

A trip on the Transfagaran road will indulge you with some of the most spectacular landscapes of the country. You’ll get to drive through natural gorges, past the Vidraru Lake and Dam, and wide open valleys. See if you can spot the Statue of Prometheus and Poienari Castle during your drive!

6. The Painted Churches of Bukovia

Ornate church interior in Bukovia, Romania

In northeastern Romania lies a cultural gem — the painted churches. On the exterior frescos, the teachings of the Bible come to life with paintings depicting the life of Jesus, images of angels and demons, heaven and hell.

Whether you’re a history, art, religion, architecture buff, you’ll be blown away by the outstanding composition, and how the colors blend in harmony with the surrounding landscape.

While all the churches are beautiful in their own right, be sure to check out the painted church in Voroneț, which is widely known as “The Sistine Chapel of the East”

7. The Merry Cemetery in Săpânța

Brightly colored gravestones at Merry Cementary, Sapanta Romania

Usually, a cemetery wouldn’t be the best place to visit during a trip. However, the Merry Cemetery in Săpânța approaches death in a cheerful way. Colorful crosses are decorated with native paintings that depict the lives of the departed, with a satirical poem underneath. This is usually written with a touch of irony, but some are more somber and serious. The cemetery is dominated by a lively blue color, Săpânța blue. 

The cemetery is open year-round, but you can celebrate life in a special way in August during “The Long Way to the Merry Cemetery” festival, where artisans, musicians, travelers, and dancers gather to preserve Romanian culture.

8. Bigăr Waterfall

Beautiful Bigar waterfall in Romania, surrounded by lush green forest

Bigăr is voted the most unique waterfall in the world — for good reason. Located in Caraș-Severin County, the 8-meter waterfall falls over a vibrant green carpet of moss, where the water shreds into tiny streams. The area is easily accessible by car, and does not require a hike. Once you get there, take in the wildlife and the beautiful colors of the waterfall!

9. Constanța

Constanta architecture in Romania

With a history spanning 2,500 years, the city of Constanța is brimming with culture. It’s strategic location on the western coast of the Black Sea made it home to several empires, such as the Greeks, the Romans, and the Ottomans. Attesting to its’ rich history, ancient monuments, grand ruins, Roman vestiges, and majestic mosques color the streets of Constanța.

Walk through the halls of the glorious Constanța Casino, an art nouveau building that is perched on a cliffside overlooking the Black Sea and the city. Although it has been abandoned since the fall of Communism, its beauty has withstood age and wear.

10. Peleș Castle

Beautiful sweeping grounds of Peles Castle in Romania

You can’t visit too many castles here in Romania — each one has its own unique charm! Peleș Castle looks like it was taken straight out of a Grimm Brothers fairytale, and dropped right in front of the Bucegi Mountains.

The castle was commissioned by King Carol I in the 19th century after he fell in love with the quiet village of Sinaia. The castle was his dream come true, and will be yours as well. Take a day-trip out to Sinaia from Brașov or Bucharest to witness the marvel of the Peleș Castle yourself!

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Romania Tours Reviews & Ratings

Write a review
Excellent
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Great
44
Average
5
Disappointing
1
Terrible
2
Arthur Tenebaum
·
2023-10-29
Written on
Balkan Adventure by Trafalgar
Balkan Adventure
Great tour of historic and beautiful sites. Excellent guides director and driver
Victor Muscat
·
2023-10-21
Written on
Balkan Adventure by Trafalgar
Balkan Adventure
Perhaps an extra day in Montenegro would help to be able to rest from very long bus rides. Otherwise all is very good.
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Barry
·
2023-10-15
Written on
Walking Romania - Transylvanian Alps Trek
The ridge walk. Once on the ridge amazing views.
Richard
·
2023-10-13
Written on
Cycle Romania by Explore!
Cycle Romania
Ended up with two tour leaders, who were like chalk and cheese. using local people is a good idea, but the 1st guide did not speak much English. The 2nd and probably the boss did and fortunately stayed with the group realising things were going to go wrong. Better if this was sorted out before the tour.
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Trusted Customer
·
2023-10-10
Written on
Walking Romania - Transylvanian Alps Trek
Peles Castle, mountain huts in beautiful environment, the country-side.
Clare
·
2023-10-09
Written on
Walking Romania - Transylvanian Alps Trek

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