Romania Travel Guide 2026: Transylvania and Highlights

Romania is a country most people either know too many wrong things about (Dracula) or too few right ones. The reality is surprising: medieval towns like Sibiu and Brasov that are barely overrun by tourists. The most affordable travel in the EU. Carpathian forests where wild brown bears still roam. A Danube Delta that has drawn birdwatchers and nature lovers for decades.

This guide covers Romania’s strongest destinations, a realistic route, and why this country is far more than its most famous export, a fictional vampire.

What should you not miss in Romania?

Transylvania is the core of any Romania trip. Brasov is the most beautiful city in the region: medieval fortifications, the Black Church (Gothic, genuinely impressive), narrow lanes. The Bucegi Mountains behind the city are excellent for hiking. Sinaia is 50 kilometers away with Peles Castle, one of the most beautiful palaces in Eastern Europe. Sibiu may be even more interesting culturally: Germanic heritage, historic cityscape, European Capital of Culture in 2007.

Bran Castle, marketed as Dracula’s Castle: Bram Stoker never visited Romania and the castle served at best as geographic inspiration. The castle itself is still worth seeing, a medieval fortress on a rock with an authentic Nosferatu atmosphere. The surrounding tourist kitsch can be ignored.

Bucharest divides opinion. The old town (Centrul Vechi) is lively with an excellent bar and restaurant scene. The Palace of Parliament (Casa Poporului) is the world’s second largest administrative building after the Pentagon, built by Ceaușescu. The sheer absurdity of its scale is an experience in itself. Guided tours daily.

The Danube Delta is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to 300 bird species. Take a boat from Tulcea into the delta. This is a different Romania entirely. Silence, reed-thatched roofs, fishermen.

Why is Romania so affordable?

Romania is an EU member but its price level is still far below Western Europe. Mid-range hotels in Bucharest or Brasov cost 40 to 70 euros. Restaurant meals 6 to 12 euros. Domestic train journeys are almost free by Western European standards. The currency is the Leu (RON), not the euro. Currently around 5 Leu per euro.

Infrastructure in tourist centers is good. In the countryside, roads can be rough in the literal sense. Roads outside motorways are often in poor condition. Rental cars are recommended for Transylvania, but drive defensively.

When is the best time to visit Romania?

May to September is ideal. Romanian summers (25 to 33 degrees) are hot, especially in Bucharest. June and September are more pleasant for hiking in the Carpathians. July and August for the Black Sea coast (Mamaia, Romania’s version of Ibiza, loud and busy).

October is one of the most beautiful months for Transylvania: autumn foliage in the Carpathians, few tourists, lower prices. December in Sibiu has one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in the country.

Winter in the Carpathians (Poiana Brasov as the ski center) for winter sports. Bucharest in winter is cold (down to minus 15 degrees) but very cheap.

How safe is Romania for travelers?

Romania is a safe EU travel destination. Petty crime in Bucharest as in any larger city. In Transylvania and the countryside it is very quiet. Rural dogs can be aggressive while hiking. Healthcare at EU standards in cities, limited in rural areas.

Travel insurance recommended as always. The official Romanian tourism website has regional information and route suggestions.

When planning Romania, tell Zercy whether you are looking for castle tours in Transylvania, Bucharest nightlife, or nature breaks in the delta. You will get hotels and routes straight back. Save your shortlist in the Zercy Logbook so everything is ready when you book.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days do you need for Romania?

7 to 10 days for Bucharest plus Transylvania. 14 days if you add the Danube Delta or Black Sea coast. A short trip to Bucharest alone (3 days) is also worthwhile.

What does Romania cost compared to other EU countries?

Romania is the most affordable EU travel destination. Mid-range hotels from 35 euros, restaurant meals from 6 euros, domestic train journeys under 10 euros for several hours. A week for two including flights: 900 to 1,400 euros.

How do you best explore Transylvania?

A rental car is the most comfortable option. The landscape is beautiful for road trips, but roads outside main routes are often poor. The Transfăgărășan (mountain road above 2,000 meters) is one of the most spectacular passes in Europe, open only June to October.

What Romanian food should you try?

Mici (small grilled meat rolls), Mămăligă (polenta), Ciorbă de burtă (tripe sour soup, actually good), Sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), Cozonac (sweet Easter bread). Romanian wine is better than its reputation.

Read more:

Romania Travel Guide: Transylvania, Bucharest and the Real Dracula Story