Romania is a country that offers many unique and diverse travel experiences. Whether you are looking for natural beauty, cultural heritage, or urban attractions, Romania has something for everyone. In this article, we will explore some of the best destinations, cities, hotels, restaurants, shopping, transportation, and tips for travelers who want to discover this amazing country.
Destinations
Romania has a rich and varied geography, with mountains, plains, hills, rivers, lakes, and the Black Sea coast. Some of the most popular natural destinations are:
- The Danube Delta: This is the second largest river delta in Europe and the best preserved on the continent. It is home to over 300 species of birds, 45 species of freshwater fish, and many other animals and plants. You can enjoy boating, fishing, birdwatching, or relaxing in this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The Carpathian Mountains: These are the longest mountain range in Europe, stretching across Romania and several other countries. They offer stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and many opportunities for hiking, biking, skiing, or climbing. You can also visit some of the famous castles and fortresses that are located in the mountains, such as Bran Castle (also known as Dracula's Castle), Peles Castle, or Rasnov Fortress.
- The Black Sea Coast: This is the place to go if you are looking for sun, sand, and sea. Romania has over 200 km of coastline, with many resorts, beaches, and spas. You can enjoy swimming, surfing, sailing, or just relaxing on the shore. Some of the most popular seaside towns are Constanta, Mamaia, Eforie, and Mangalia.
Cities
Romania has many cities that offer a mix of history, culture, and modernity. You can find ancient monuments, medieval churches, art museums, lively nightlife, and delicious cuisine in these urban centers. Some of the most visited cities are:
- Bucharest: This is the capital and largest city of Romania, with over 2 million inhabitants. It is also known as the "Little Paris" of the East, because of its elegant architecture and boulevards. You can visit the Palace of the Parliament, the largest administrative building in the world, the Romanian Athenaeum, a beautiful concert hall, the National Museum of Art, the Village Museum, and many other attractions.
- Brasov: This is a charming city in the heart of Transylvania, surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains. It has a well-preserved medieval center, with the Black Church, the Council Square, and the Rope Street. You can also take a cable car to the top of Mount Tampa, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city and the surroundings.
- Sibiu: This is another picturesque city in Transylvania, with a rich cultural and artistic life. It was the European Capital of Culture in 2007, and it hosts many festivals and events throughout the year. You can admire the colorful houses, the Gothic cathedral, the Brukenthal Museum, and the Bridge of Lies in the old town, or visit the open-air Astra Museum, where you can see traditional Romanian villages and crafts.
Hotels
Romania has a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to cozy guesthouses. You can find something that suits your budget and preferences, depending on the location and the season. Some of the best hotels in Romania are:
- Athenee Palace Hilton Bucharest: This is a five-star hotel in the center of Bucharest, near the Romanian Athenaeum and the Royal Palace. It offers elegant rooms and suites, a spa, a fitness center, a restaurant, a bar, and a casino.
- Kronwell Brasov Hotel: This is a four-star hotel in Brasov, near the train station and the old town. It offers modern rooms and suites, a spa, a fitness center, a restaurant, a bar, and a conference center.
- Hilton Sibiu: This is a five-star hotel in Sibiu, near the Astra Museum and the Dumbrava Forest. It offers spacious rooms and suites, a spa, a fitness center, a restaurant, a bar, and a tennis court.
Meals and Restaurants
Romania has a rich and diverse cuisine, influenced by its neighbors and its history. You can find dishes that are based on meat, cheese, vegetables, grains, and fruits, seasoned with herbs and spices. Some of the most typical dishes are:
- Sarmale: These are cabbage or vine leaves stuffed with minced meat, rice, and herbs, cooked in a tomato sauce. They are usually served with sour cream and polenta, a cornmeal porridge.
- Mici: These are grilled minced meat rolls, seasoned with garlic, paprika, and other spices. They are usually served with mustard, bread, and fries or salad.
- Ciorba: This is a sour soup, made with various ingredients, such as meat, vegetables, beans, or fish. It is flavored with vinegar, lemon juice, or sour cream, and garnished with parsley or dill.
Romania also has many restaurants that offer international cuisine, such as Italian, French, Chinese, or Indian. Some of the best restaurants in Romania are:
- Caru' cu Bere: This is a traditional Romanian restaurant in Bucharest, located in a historical building that dates back to 1879. It serves authentic dishes, such as sarmale, mici, ciorba, and tripe soup, accompanied by live music and folk dances.
- Sergiana: This is a traditional Romanian restaurant in Brasov, located in a cellar that resembles a peasant house. It serves regional dishes, such as smoked pork, cheese, sausages, and pies, along with homemade bread and wine.
- Crama Sibiul Vechi: This is a traditional Romanian restaurant in Sibiu, located in a 15th-century building that was once a wine cellar. It serves local dishes, such as lamb, trout, mushrooms, and cheese, along with a variety of wines and spirits.
Shopping
Romania has many shopping opportunities, from modern malls and boutiques to traditional markets and handicrafts. You can find something that suits your taste and budget, whether you are looking for clothes, accessories, electronics, or souvenirs. Some of the best places to shop in Romania are:
- Unirea Shopping Center: This is a large shopping mall in Bucharest, near the Unirii Square. It has over 200 stores, selling clothes, shoes, jewelry, cosmetics, books, and more. It also has a food court, a cinema, and a bowling alley.
- Piata Sfatului: This is the main square in Brasov, surrounded by colorful buildings and monuments. It hosts a variety of events and markets throughout the year, such as the Christmas market, the Easter market, and the Medieval Festival. You can find stalls selling handicrafts, ceramics, woodcarving, paintings, and more.
- Piata Mare: This is the main square in Sibiu, surrounded by historical buildings and museums. It hosts a variety of events and markets throughout the year, such as the International Theatre Festival, the Jazz Festival, and the Pottery Fair. You can find stalls selling handicrafts, textiles, leather, glass, and more.
Transportation
Romania has a well-developed transportation network, with roads, railways, airports, and ports. You can choose the best option for your travel needs, depending on the distance, the cost, and the comfort. Some of the main transportation options are:
- Car: This is the most flexible and convenient way to travel around Romania, as you can explore the country at your own pace and stop wherever you want. You can rent a car from various companies, or use a taxi or a ride-sharing service. However, you should be aware of the traffic rules, the road conditions, and the parking fees.
- Train: This is the most affordable and scenic way to travel around Romania, as you can enjoy the views of the countryside and the mountains. You can use the national railway company, CFR, or the private operators, such as RegioTrans or Softrans. However, you should be aware of the timetables, the delays, and the comfort levels.
- Plane: This is the fastest and most comfortable way to travel around Romania, especially for long distances. You can use the national airline company, TAROM, or the low-cost operators, such as Blue Air or Wizz Air. However, you should be aware of the fares, the luggage limits, and the airport transfers.
Tips for Travelers
Romania is a safe and friendly country, with hospitable and helpful people. However, as with any travel destination, you should be aware of some tips and advice that can make your trip more enjoyable and hassle-free. Some of the tips are:
- Language: The official language of Romania is Romanian, a Romance language that is similar to Italian, French, or Spanish. Many people also speak English, especially in the cities and tourist areas. However, it is always polite and appreciated to learn some basic words and phrases in Romanian, such as hello, thank you, or excuse me.
- Currency: The official currency of Romania is the Romanian leu (RON), which is divided into 100 bani. You can exchange your.
Conclusion
Romania’s tourism is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. From the enchanting castles steeped in history, to the majestic Carpathian mountains, and the vibrant city life, Romania offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Whether you’re an adventurer, a history buff, or a city explorer, Romania has something for everyone. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the unexplored, because Romania is not just a destination, it’s an experience.