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Romania trip planning can feel like a monumental undertaking. The sprawling country is home to spectacular destinations – from buzzing cities to mountain towns to picturesque castles. Our Romania Itinerary allows travelers to experience all of it!
In our proposal for the best way to spend 7 days in Romania, we share a day-by-day outline featuring the top things to do in Romania in a week. With our itinerary, fellow travelers can easily plan their trip to Romania!
Romania Itinerary: How To Plan a Romania Trip
In our Best of Romania Itinerary, we highlight the top Romania places to visit in a week – and we recommend traveling from place to place using public transportation. With a 1 Week in Romania Vacation, it’s the perfect introduction to the diverse country.
Choosing Where To Go in Romania
If you asked us to choose just one city as the best in Romania, we would be hard pressed to give an answer. The top places in Romania to visit are vastly different – so choosing where to go comes down to allotted timeframe and personal interests.
The destinations we chose for our Romanian Itinerary are three of the best cities in the country: Bucharest, Brasov and Sibiu.
Bucharest
Bucharest is the busy capital of Romania. Dotted with churches, parks, museums and monuments – and decorated in a fascinating array of architecture – Bucharest can boggle the mind. We share top sights and attractions in our guide to the Best Things To Do in Bucharest.
Brasov
Situated in the picturesque Carpathian Mountains in the Transylvania region, Brasov is simply stunning. The old historic center, once ringed by protective walls, is overlooked by Tampa Hill and an old fortress. Plan your Brasov Itinerary using our guide of What To Do in Brasov, Romania.
Sibiu
Perfectly preserved, Old Town Sibiu is an idyllic Transylvanian town that beckons visitors to slow down, relax and enjoy local life on one of the prominent squares. With a handful of incredible sights and an epic gastronomic scene, Sibiu is not to be missed! Find out more in our guide of Top Things To Do in Sibiu.
Figuring Out How Many Days to Spend in Romania
We believe a 7 Day Romania Trip allows just enough time to experience the highlights. However, we understand that fellow travelers may have more – or less – time to spend in Romania. Therefore, at the end of our featured One Week Romania Itinerary, we offer suggestions for shorter and longer itineraries.
Deciding to Drive or Use Public Transport
Getting around Romania is not easy. The country is massive and roads are woefully lacking (both in terms of quality and quantity). While renting a car allows for the most freedom, driving in Romania presents a few challenges and could be very stressful.
Rather than taking on the Romanian roads, we recommend using public transit. Most of the top things to see in Romania can be reached with bus or train.
In fact, our outlined plan can be used as a Romania Train Itinerary or Bus Itinerary (or a combination of both). And, of course, travelers who are comfortable in the driver’s seat can use it as a Romania Road Trip Itinerary. We offer additional tips for getting around Romania at the end of the article.
Budget For Your Trip to Romania
As one of the most affordable destinations in Europe, planning a vacation in Romania doesn’t have to be expensive. Whether you are planning a luxury getaway or a Romania backpacking itinerary, you can completely experience the destinations featured in our day-by-day outline.
Plan the Best Romania Vacation
Of course, there is much more to planning a vacation to Romania than deciding where to go and how long to stay. Therefore, in addition to our day-by-day guide, we offer Romania travel tips on what to eat, when to go, how to get there, where to stay and what to pack.
Travelers making the trip from overseas can find more useful tips in our Guide to Planning a Perfect Europe Vacation.
As you begin to make reservations, staying organized is key! We suggest using our Printable Travel Planner, to stay on top of all the details.
Best Romania Tours
With our outlined Romania trip itinerary, travelers can easily plan their time in the country. However, visitors who would rather leave the details to a professional guide can join a multiday tour.
On this Best in Romania Tour, visitors spend 6 days touring the top places to see as well as a few hidden gems. Get the details!
7 DAYS IN ROMANIA ITINERARY
Our outlined itinerary for Romania includes everything you need to plan your vacation. Let’s get started, shall we?
Save, Pin or Bookmark our Romania Travel Guide to plan your trip!
Day 1: Arrive in Bucharest
On Day 1 of your Romania One Week Itinerary, arrive in Bucharest and waste no time getting acquainted with the city. Explore the historic and poignant districts, then partake in the fun of Bucharest nightlife.
Old Town Bucharest
After getting settled into your accommodations (recommended: Grand Hotel Continental), start your exploration in the Old Town Lipscani District; it’s one of the most interesting places to see in Romania. Join the Free Walkabout Bucharest Tour and let a guide show you the sights – or wander to the top Bucharest Old Town sights on your own.
Spend the rest of the day seeing some of the most significant architecture and cultural highlights – like Gradina Cismigiu Park, the National Art Museum at the Royal Palace, Revolution Square and the Ateneul Roman Theater.
End the first day of your trip to Romania back in the Bucharest Old Town, where there are heaps of restaurants and bars to entertain. We recommend having dinner at the historic Caru cu Bere, which we think is one of the Best Restaurants in Bucharest. The lively atmosphere is highlighted by traditional music and the hearty meals are massive.
After dinner, enjoy the nightlife at a few of the Fun Bucharest Bars or keep it low key and sample some fantastic Romania wine at Abel’s Wine Bar.
Public Transit for Day 1
When you arrive in Bucharest, you will need to make your way to your accommodations. While public transportation is available from the bus and train stations and the airport, it is likely worth it to get an inexpensive Uber.
If you are staying in the Bucharest city center (and we suggest that you do), you can reach all sights on Day 1 on foot.
Day 2: Sightseeing in Bucharest
On the second day of your One Week Itinerary Romania, learn about the country’s former dictator and his palatial quest at The People’s Palace, then travel to the north side of the city to see his personal residence. Next, spend the afternoon at the best park in Bucharest.
Bucharest Centrul Civic
Start your day in the Centrul Civic District, which was designed by Communist Dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu. Top sights to see in the district are the Bucharest Fountains, the People’s Palace and the People’s Salvation Cathedral.
While in the area, consider seeing some of Bucharest’s top religious sites (like the Patriarchal Cathedral and Antim Monastery) or discovering two of the top city parks (Parcul Carol I and Tineretului Park) and the beautiful Cimitirul Bellu Cemetery.
Primaverii Neighborhood and Herastrau Park
In the afternoon, travel north to the posh Primaverii Neighborhood. Visit the residence of the former Dictator, the Primaverii Palace House of Ceausescu, enjoy a refreshment in the estate garden and then wander through the district to Herastrau Park.
Herastrau Park is the city’s biggest and best green space. In addition to the walking paths, water activities and ample dining options, make sure to seek out the Dimitrie Gusti Outdoor Museum, the Arcul de Triumf and the House of the Free Press Building.
Dinner and Drinks near the Bucharest Old Town
End the second day of your itinerary for Romania just west of the Old Town for a contemporary night out. Dine at Paine si Vin, the city’s best modern pizzeria. For after dinner drinks, walk around the corner to Ironic Taproom and sample local Romanian craft beer.
Public Transportation Day 2
Plan on using the Bucharest Metro to get from Centrul Civic to Primaverii Palace and Herastrau Park – and again to get back to the Old Town. Tickets are inexpensive and can be purchased from the machines (with instructions in English) at the station.
Day 3: Travel to Brasov via Sinaia and Peles Castle
Continue your trip by traveling north into Transylvania to the once fortified city of Brasov. Along the way, make a stop in Sinaia to see the famous Peles Castle and an historic monastery.
Peles Castle and Sinaia
Without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Romania is to visit the Peles Castle in the town of Sinaia. Conveniently located along the route between Bucharest and Brasov, the town is ideal for a stop off while transiting between the two destinations.
In Sinaia, make the uphill climb (or take a bus or taxi) to the picture-perfect Peles Castle. The impressive abode was built as the summer residence for the first King of Romania in the late 1800s – and it’s exquisite, both inside and out.
After touring Peles, visit both of the churches at the Sinaia Monastery. If the weather is cooperating, soar to the mountaintop via cable car for panoramic vistas of the Transylvania terrain.
Brasov, Romania
Arrive in Brasov by late afternoon and check into your hotel (recommended: Radisson Blu). Then, go directly to Tampa Mountain and either take the cable car or hike to the Brasov Sign at the summit.
From the top of Tampa, visitors get a fabulous first look at Old Town Brasov. From the elevated viewpoint, the city – and its many sights – are clearly visible. Consider exploring the summit trails and then descend back down to the Brasov city center (by cable car or on foot).
Ease into the evening with a local craft beer at Aftar Stube, one of our favorite bars in the entire city! For dinner, book a table at one of the Best Restaurants in Brasov: La Ceaun. There are two locations, but we recommend the location on the main square, which has ample patio seating. Order the house specialty, Bean Soup in a Bread Bowl, along with other traditional Romanian fare.
Day 3 Public Transport Options
The preferred way to travel between Bucharest and Brasov is via train. They depart fairly frequently and are very affordable. When you make the stop in Sinaia, you can store your luggage at the train station (inquire with the bathroom attendant).
Arriving in Brasov by train doesn’t leave you to the city center, but 2 miles to the north. Take an Uber from the train station to your city center hotel.
Day 4: Brasov Sightseeing
Spend Day 4 of your Romania 1 Week Itinerary seeing the sights in Brasov Old Town. Let a local guide lead the way, while sharing the history of the city – then set off on your own to see more top attractions and museums.
Join a Brasov Walking Tour
Start your discovery of Brasov with a local tour guide on the Free Walkabout Tour. On the 2.5-hour tour, visitors learn about the history of Brasov and get a local’s perspective. After the walk, grab a quick lunch (recommended: Un Trancio e Via) and then spend the rest of the day discovering Brasov on your own.
Visit Top Brasov Attractions and Museums
The fascinating history of Brasov is preserved in the city’s best museums, attractions and neighborhoods. Note that a small entry fee is required to visit each the museums, but the combo Brasov Visitor Ticket might save you some money.
Begin in the Piata Sfatului main square. Visit the Brasov Country Museum of History located inside the Trumpeter’s Tower in the center of the square and then step inside the Black Church to see the vast interior. If time allows, stop by the Muresenilor House Museum, which shows how a prominent family lived during communist times.
By mid-afternoon, stroll into the Schei District, one of the oldest parts of Brasov. Visit the First Romanian Schoolhouse and then see the dazzling interior of the St. Nicholas Orthodox Church.
As you make your way back into the center, go to the Bastionul Tesatorilor Weaver’s Bastion to learn more about how Brasov thrived as a fortified city.
Brasov Dinner and Drinks
Rather than dining on the Brasov main square for a second night, we think it is best to navigate to one of the smaller lanes in the Old Town. Begin the evening at Terroirs Boutique du Vin, where you can sample delicious Romanian wines. Stay for dinner or make advance reservations at Bistro Del’Arte, a restaurant that features classic Romanian cuisine with a modern twist.
Looking for more food ideas? Read our reviews of all the Top Places To Eat in Brasov!
Day 4 Public Transit
If you are staying in the Brasov City Center, everything on Day 4 is walkable, so there is no need for transit!
Day 5: Transylvania Day Trip
Explore more of the Transylvania region on Day 5 of your Romania 7 Day Itinerary. Depart from Brasov on your own or join a guided tour to travel further afield.
Take a Brasov Day Trip
For many visitors, Transylvania is the best area of Romania to see on trip – and it’s easily accessible from Brasov. Mighty castles, small villages and epic nature are all just a short journey from Brasov city center.
Dracula’s Bran Castle
A must-see Romania attraction, the Bran Castle – better known as Dracula’s Castle – is just an hour from Brasov by bus. Visitors can tour the castle interior, which is still decorated with artwork and furniture used by the last Romanian Royal Family that resided there. Buy Skip-the-Line Tickets to Bran Castle or let a guide handle all the details by joining one of the highly-rated tours.
Poiana Brasov
A popular Romanian mountain resort that boasts year-round outdoor activities, Poiana Brasov is a natural wonderland – and it’s just a short bus ride from Brasov. In the wintertime, visitors can hit the slopes, while the summer and autumn are ideal for mountain biking and hiking. In fact, there are trails that connect Brasov to Poiana Brasov for a full day of hiking fun!
Hiking Tour to Piatra Craiului National Park
Highly rated for outdoor adventures, the Piatra Craiului NP features stunning scenery and fantastic hiking trails. One of the top-rated areas to hike is Zarnesti Gorge, but it’s best to go on a guided tour if you do not have a car.
Bears in Romania
Wild bears roam the mountainous region of Transylvania – and visitors can travel with a tour guide to get a glimpse. Join an experienced forest ranger in search of wild brown bears…or go to a bear sanctuary with a guide (and see Bran Castle, too).
More Tours from Brasov
Still looking for the right day trip for your Romanian Itinerary? Travel the Transfagarasan Highway to the Sky on an organized tour or spend an entire day visiting quaint villages and hidden gems on a Tour to Sighisoara.
Dinner in Brasov
Back in Brasov in time for dinner, plan to eat a traditional Romanian meal at the atmospheric Sergiana. For a truly traditional Transylvanian dish, order the Bulz – a decadent polenta, meat and egg meal.
Public Transportation for Day 5
Getting to some places – like Bran and Poiana Brasov – are fairly easy with local buses. That said, buses from Brasov to Bran depart from the Autogara 2 station – which is north of the city center. To get there, hop on a city bus at the Old Town Livada Postei stop, which is where you can also find Bus #20 going to Poiana Brasov.
Those who wish to spend a day further afield will likely benefit from renting a car for the day or joining a tour.
Day 6: Go to Sibiu, Romania
Next, travel west to the idyllic town of Sibiu – one of the absolute best places to go in Romania. Soak in the charm of the alluring town, look up at the unusual architecture and feast on the local fare.
See Sights in Sibiu Old Town
After getting situated in your accommodations (recommended: ART Hotel), go out and explore the sights of Sibiu. Start in the massive main square, Piata Mare, and admire the ornate buildings and look for the Eyes of Sibiu peeking out from the rooftops. Duck through a passageway into Piata Mica, the small square. Wander across the Bridge of Lies, visit the magnificent St Mary Cathedral and climb to the top of the Council Tower.
Weave your way down quiet lanes, stroll up Sibiu’s wide pedestrian street and take the stairs under arched passageways along the old city walls.
If you would prefer not to wander on your own, hire a guide to lead the way!
Dinner and Drinks in Sibiu
For casual pre-dinner drinks, stop by Flow in the Stairs Passage, where outdoor tables line the old brick fortifications. Then, for dinner, decide whether you want to dine at La Taifas on the Large Square (Piata Mare) or at Kulinarium on the Small Square (Piata Mica). Read all our advice about Where To Eat and Drink in Sibiu!
Day 6 Public Transit
Tourists can travel from Brasov to Sibiu by train or bus. Both methods of transit take about the same amount of time and cost about the same amount of money. We traveled between the two cities on bus, as the times were more convenient to our schedule than the trains.
Day 7: Explore Sibiu
On the last day of your Best of Romania Travel Itinerary, enjoy the slower pace of Sibiu as you take in a few final points of interest.
Sibiu Attractions and Museums
Start your day on Strada Cetatii, which is nicknamed The Most Beautiful Street in Sibiu, and visit the defensive towers that stand along the street. Inside the preserved fortifications is a small and inexpensive museum that details the history of Sibiu and the importance of the Saxon’s guilds.
Next, navigate your way to the awe-inspiring Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral. Featuring soaring, striped towers, the interior is decorated in colorful frescoes.
If time allows and you are interested in art, consider visiting the National Brukenthal Museum, the oldest museum in Romania. Housed in a palace, the museum features Romanian works of art, as well as pieces by European artists.
ASTRA Open Air Museum
In the afternoon, travel three miles outside the city center to the Sibiu ASTRA Museum.
Rated as one of the top places to visit in Romania to peek into the past, the ASTRA Museum is a historical complex of Romanian culture. Featuring more than 400 ancient houses, barns and workshops – as well as windmills, water mills and a 200-year-old wooden church – the outdoor museum is a treasure trove of Romanian heritage.
Dinner and Drinks to finish your Romania Itinerary
End your time in Romania with an evening to remember. First, enjoy a glass of fine Romanian wine in the cellars at Weinkeller or on the patio at Wine Not. Then, indulge in a culinary treat at La Cuptor. The menu features traditional Romanian favorites with a modern touch – and it’s absolutely delicious!
Public Transit on Day 7
Visitors can take Sibiu public bus #13 from the city center to the ASTRA Museum. The bus conveniently stops at the complex entrance and rides are inexpensive. Alternatively, travelers can walk to the museum via the paved path and trails through the forested Sub Arini Park.
Travel Map of Romania
Use this link to Google for a live version of our Top Things To Do in Romania Map.
More Romania Itineraries
Above, we outlined the best places to visit in Romania in a week. However, because we know that not all travelers are planning to spend 7 days in Romania, we have created itineraries for more and less time in the country.
Romania Itinerary 3 Days
The best way to create a quick 3 Days in Romania Itinerary is to choose just one destination. Of course, what to see in Romania in 3 Days will depend on your interests, but basing yourself in either Bucharest, Brasov or Sibiu will allow enough time to see the highlights and take one day trip.
For example, if you decide to create a Bucharest Itinerary for 3 days, spend 2 days seeing the top sights (as outlined in Days 1 and 2 in our Romania 1 Week Itinerary), then take a day trip – perhaps to Peles Castle and Bran Castle – on the final day.
4 Day Itinerary Romania
Travelers with 4 days in Romania might be tempted to split their time between two destinations. While it is possible, it is likely not worth the hassle of changing hotel rooms, unless you are already arriving in one location and leaving from another.
An example would be flying into Bucharest and staying for two days. On Day 3, travel by train to Brasov (seeing Peles Castle enroute). Spend 2 nights in Brasov, then depart the there.
Romania Itinerary 5 Days
With a Romania 5 Day Itinerary, travelers can experience two destinations at a reasonable pace – spending 2 nights in one location and 3 nights in another. One way would be to create a 5 Day Transylvania Itinerary between Brasov and Sibiu.
6 Days in Romania
Those planning a 6 Day Romania Itinerary can use our outlined 1-Week Romania Trip Plan as a base – and eliminate one day in Brasov. In order to pull this off without missing too many sights, we recommend merging Days 4 and 5. Start Day 4 with a walking tour of Brasov, then after lunch, join a half-day Bran Castle tour.
Alternate Romania Itinerary 7 Days
In our Romania One Week Itinerary, we include two full days in the bustling Bucharest. For some travelers, however, Transylvania is the area they most want to explore.
Those just interested in spending time in the mountainous region can plan a complete Transylvania Romania Vacation. To create a One Week Transylvania Trip, we recommend spending 4 days in Brasov and 3 days in Sibiu.
Romania Itinerary 10 Days
Spending 10 days in Romania allows travelers to really discover the country, and at a more enjoyable pace. For us, a perfect 10 Day Itinerary Romania would include the same three destinations, but we would add one more day in each.
With the additional days, we recommend either taking day trips to see more of the region or discovering some of the unique neighborhoods. In Bucharest, spend the day at the Botanical Gardens in the Cotroceni District. With another day in Brasov, spend time in nature hiking mountain trails. In Sibiu, take a Day Trip to Sighisoara.
Romania Itinerary 2 Weeks
Visitors with 2 weeks in Romania can add one more destination to their trip. For the best Romania 2 Week Itinerary, we recommend using our above 10 day plan and then traveling to the vibrant university city of Cluj-Napoca for a 4 day stay.
In Cluj-Napoca, see the sights (like the Gothic St. Michael’s Church, Piata Unirii and Banffy Palace) and then set off on day trips to the surrounding region. See the small villages on an Apuseni Mountains Tour or book an overnight excursion to Maramures for a real look at local life.
Bulgaria and Romania Itinerary
Travelers to Europe who want to visit two countries in one trip can create a 2 Weeks Romania and Bulgaria Itinerary. Sofia, Plovdiv and Veliko Tarnovo are three fantastic destinations in Bulgaria that can be added to your Romania Vacation.
Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia Itinerary
Visitors with 2 weeks – or those who only want to see big cities – can create a Serbia, Romania, Bulgaria Itinerary. For the first week, start in Serbia to visit Belgrade and Nis, then go to Bulgaria to see Sofia. Next, travel north and pick up our One Week in Romania Itinerary from Bucharest!
Travel Tips for Planning a Romania Trip
Now that you know where to go and what to see in Romania, we have a few more travel tips to help you have an enjoyable trip!
Romanian Currency
The currency in Romania is the Leu (plural Lei), but there are promises to convert to the Euro. Check the current USD to RON conversion rates before you arrive in Romania.
Tipping in Romania
Tipping in Romania is a common practice. Visitors should be prepared to tip servers at restaurants (10% for good service, 12% for fantastic service), Uber, cab and tour bus drivers (3-5 lei for short trips, 10% for longer and more expensive trips), housekeeping staff (5 lei per day), hotel porters (5 lei per bag) and tour guides (5-10% for a good guide).
Tips should be given in cash in the local currency. If paying by credit card at a restaurant, you will still need to tip in cash. Try to carry small bills, but you can ask the waiter for change if you need to.
Pay for Toilets
Most towns, bus stations and train stations have toilets, but they usually cost. The fee to use the toilet is generally 2 lei.
Fee for Photos
At most Romanian museums, photos are not allowed unless you pay an extra fee. Before you start snapping pictures, ask if photographs are permitted.
Romanian Language
Romanian is the official language of Romania! However, many Romanians – especially those in the service and tourist industries – speak excellent English.
That said, when visiting any foreign country, it is best to learn a few basic words. These are some phrases and numbers to know before your Romania Vacation.
- Hello: Buna Ziua
- Thank You: Multumesc
- You’re Welcome: Cu Placere
- Numbers: 1 – Unu; 2 – Doi; 3 – Trei; 4 – Patru; 5 – Cinci
What To Eat and Drink in Romania
Romanian cuisine is hearty but simple – and, in our opinion, absolutely divine. Visitors will likely notice elements of German, Hungarian, Turkish and Italian inspiration in the local Romanian food. We are highlighting a few of the must-eat foods in Romania.
Ciorba
Soup – or Ciorba – is a popular meal in Romania and it comes in several variations. We like the Bean Soup best (Ciorba de Fasole), but Tripe Soup (Ciorba de Burta) and Meatball Soup (Ciorba de Perisoare) are the most popular.
Mititei or Mici
Mici are small, caseless grilled sausages made from various ground meats and spices. They go best with mustard and are typically served with a roll and beer!
Sarmale
The National Dish of Romania, and therefore a must-try on your visit, Sarmale are cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat and spices.
Mamaliga
A traditional Romanian food served as a side or main dish, Mamaliga is polenta – and it can be prepared in many different ways. Bulz, with cheese, butter and meat, is our favorite preparation.
Pickles
Pickles – or any pickled vegetable – are popular appetizers and side dishes in Romania…and we couldn’t get enough of them! Crisp and flavorful, we highly recommend ordering a side of pickles for any meal.
Papanasi
The most famous dessert in Romania is Papanasi. The sweet treat is prepared with two Romanian donuts that are drenched in cream and a berry jam. It’s best to share, but we wouldn’t blame you if you wanted it all to yourself!
Romanian Wine and Craft Beer
Romania is one of the largest producers of wine in Europe…and it’s totally underrated! Although they are known for their white wine grape varietals (try the Feteasca Alba), they make incredible red wines, as well (Feteasca Neagra was far and away our favorite).
We always like to get a taste of what’s brewing locally and were pleased to find excellent craft beer in Romania. In fact, we found dedicated craft beer bars in Bucharest, Brasov and Sibiu! We particularly like the offerings from two Romanian breweries: Beereta and Hop Hooligans.
Best Time to Visit Romania
Deciding when to go to Romania is an essential part of the trip planning process. Both weather and crowds can impact your visit, depending on the season.
Summer Trip to Romania
Summertime is the most popular time to visit Romania. The weather is typically warm (or hot) and the days are long – both of which are good for exploration and outdoor activities. However, the summer in Romania also sees the biggest crowds. Visitors will likely encounter long lines and increased prices.
Travel to Romania in Autumn
We think the best time to go to Romania is in the early autumn. There are fewer crowds and prices for hotels start to dip. Temperatures are cooler, which we like for hiking and walking tours. However, by the end of fall it can already feel like winter.
Winter in Romania
Romanian winters are long and cold. However, there are a few good reasons to go to Romania in the wintertime. Skiing is a popular winter activity in Romania – but our top reason to visit Romania in December is the Christmas markets! All three cities that we feature on our Romania Itinerary host spectacular Christmas fairs, making Romania one of the Best European Destinations for Christmas.
Trip to Romania in Spring
Springtime can be a bit hit-and-miss in Romania. While much of the country experiences pleasant weather, winter hangs on in the mountains until late spring – which might be ideal for skiers, but not so much for hikers and walkers. On the other hand, springtime offers the best deals on flights and hotels.
How To Get To Romania
Generally speaking, we think it is best to fly to Romania. Taking a train or bus from even the closest major cities (like Budapest) will be a long, slow journey.
There are several airports in Romania that make it easy for travelers to fly into one city and out of another. In our outlined Itinerary for Romania for a Week, we recommend flying into Bucharest and out of Sibiu.
Use our tips for Finding the Best Airfare and then jump onto Skyscanner to book your trip!
The Bucharest Henri Coanda International Airport Romania (OTP) is the country’s largest airport and is served from many major European cities – by both network airlines and low-cost carriers.
The small Sibiu Airport (SBZ) is connected to European hubs, like Munich and Vienna. Those who want to fly in or out of Brasov can now do so from the new Brasov-Ghimbav International Airport (GHV), but services are limited to London (Luton) and Dortmund (Germany).
Getting Around Romania
In our Romanian Itinerary, we visited without a car. However, travel in Romania is slow, regardless of whether you are using buses, trains or even a car.
When using buses and trains, it is best to arrive early – at least a half hour prior to departure – to ensure you get a seat. In the busy summer season, it is wise to buy tickets in advance.
Tickets for buses typically cost less than trains, yet they usually take about the same amount of time. The trains, however, are slightly more comfortable and reliable than buses and more likely to have working toilets. Buses, on the other hand, are cheaper, often have better timetables and serve more places than trains.
Where To Stay in Romania
For each of the 3 destinations we recommend in our One Week in Romania Itinerary, we include a suggested hotel.
- Bucharest: Grand Hotel Continental
- Brasov: Radisson Blu
- Sibiu: ART Hotel
Alternatively, those staying in one destination for a longer period of time may find it more comfortable in an apartment. You can search for vacation apartments on Booking.com or Airbnb.
What To Pack for your Trip to Romania
Now that you know how to plan your Romania Itinerary, it’s time to think about what to pack in your suitcase or backpack. We are sharing a few specific tips, but you can find all of our packing hacks on our Packing Tips page. For now, grab your FREE Packing Checklist!
Good Travel Shoes
We recommend packing a pair of durable and comfortable shoes for sightseeing – I wear these versatile sneakers on our trips. However, if you plan on hiking in the Transylvanian Mountains, it’s advisable to pack hiking shoes as well.
Use our reviews for the Best Travel Shoes to ensure you pack the right ones for your trip!
Travel Camera
Romania is gorgeous! Instead of relying on your phone to capture the beauty of the country, upgrade to an actual travel camera.
We use a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens for our travels. This affordable camera is easy to use, takes quality photos and comes with heaps of accessories!
Versatile Day Pack
In our Week-Long Romania Itinerary, we outline long days of sightseeing, DIY day trips and forest hikes – which means that a good day bag is essential. For our travels in Romania, we use these small backpacks with zippered pockets for organizing your everyday personal items.
Romania Travel Insurance
Do you need trip insurance for your vacation to Romania? Check the affordable rates and coverage at World Nomads.
Start planning your trip to Romania! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
More Top Regional Destinations
We love this region of Europe and share top tips in our free guides to the best destinations!
- How To Plan a Croatia Vacation
- What To See in Sarajevo and Things To Do in Mostar, Bosnia Herzegovina
- Sightseeing in Skopje, North Macedonia
- Top Sights of Slovenia
- 2 Weeks in Greece
- Planning a 3-Day Budapest Trip
- Things To Do in Kotor, Montenegro
- 3 Days in Athens Itinerary
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