Romania-7-day-itinerary

Romania 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Bucharest

  • Arrival: Fly into Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP) in Bucharest
  • Accommodation: Check-in to a hotel in the city center, such as Hotel Europa Royale or similar
  • Things to do:
    • Visit the Palace of the Parliament, a massive building with guided tours available
    • Explore the historic Old Town, including the National Museum of Romanian History and the Bucharest Metropolitan Cathedral
    • Enjoy traditional Romanian cuisine at Caru’ cu Bere or Hanul lui Manuc
  • Things to know:
    • Romania is part of the European Union, but not in the Schengen Area; US citizens do not need a visa for tourism or business stays up to 90 days
    • The local currency is the Romanian Leu (RON); credit cards are widely accepted

Day 2: Bucharest to Brasov

  • Transportation: Take a train from Bucharest’s Gara de Nord station to Brasov ( approx. 3 hours)
  • Accommodation: Check-in to a hotel in the city center, such as Hotel Aro Palace or similar
  • Things to do:
    • Visit Bran Castle, commonly known as Dracula’s Castle, situated near Brasov
    • Explore the historic city center, including the Council Square and the Black Church
    • Take a stroll through the scenic Tampa Nature Reserve
  • Things to know:
    • Romania has a well-developed railway network; trains are comfortable and relatively affordable
    • The local language is Romanian, but many people speak English, especially among the younger population

Day 3: Brasov to Sinaia

  • Transportation: Take a train from Brasov to Sinaia (approx. 1 hour)
  • Accommodation: Check-in to a hotel in the city center, such as Hotel Rina or similar
  • Things to do:
    • Visit Peles Castle, a stunning royal palace with impressive architecture and gardens
    • Explore the charming town of Sinaia, with its picturesque streets and historic buildings
    • Take a hike through the nearby Bucegi Natural Park
  • Things to know:
    • Romania has a rich cultural heritage, with many castles, palaces, and monasteries to explore
    • The local cuisine is hearty and delicious, with popular dishes like sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls) and mamaliga (polenta)

Day 4: Sinaia to Sighisoara

  • Transportation: Take a train from Sinaia to Brasov, then transfer to another train to Sighisoara (approx. 4 hours total)
  • Accommodation: Check-in to a hotel in the city center, such as Hotel Sighisoara or similar
  • Things to do:
    • Visit the medieval town of Sighisoara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with colorful buildings and towers
    • Explore the Clock Tower, Church on the Hill, and other historic landmarks
    • Take a stroll through the charming streets and enjoy traditional Transylvanian cuisine
  • Things to know:
    • Romania has a rich history, with many medieval towns and fortresses to explore
    • The local wine is excellent, with popular varieties like Feteasca and Riesling

Day 5: Sighisoara to Targu Mures

  • Transportation: Take a train from Sighisoara to Targu Mures (approx. 2 hours)
  • Accommodation: Check-in to a hotel in the city center, such as Hotel Concordia or similar
  • Things to do:
    • Visit the Trandafirilor Square, with its impressive Baroque-style buildings and monuments
    • Explore the Palace of Culture, a stunning example of Secession architecture
    • Take a stroll through the scenic Roses’ Park and enjoy traditional Hungarian cuisine
  • Things to know:
    • Romania has a diverse cultural heritage, with many ethnic groups and traditions to discover
    • The local people are friendly and welcoming, with a strong sense of hospitality

Day 6: Targu Mures to Cluj-Napoca

  • Transportation: Take a train from Targu Mures to Cluj-Napoca (approx. 4 hours)
  • Accommodation: Check-in to a hotel in the city center, such as Hotel Confort or similar
  • Things to do:
    • Visit the Cluj-Napoca Botanical Garden, one of the largest and most beautiful in Eastern Europe
    • Explore the historic city center, including the St. Michael’s Church and the Matthias Corvinus House
    • Take a stroll through the scenic Someșul Mic River valley
  • Things to know:
    • Romania has a vibrant university life, with many prestigious institutions like Babeș-Bolyai University in Cluj-Napoca
    • The local nightlife is lively, with many bars, clubs, and cultural events to enjoy

Day 7: Departure from Cluj-Napoca

  • Departure: Fly out of Avram Iancu International Airport (CLJ) in Cluj-Napoca
  • Things to know:
    • Romania is a great value destination, with affordable prices for accommodations, food, and activities
    • The local people are proud of their heritage and culture, and eager to share it with visitors

Transportation

  • Train: Romania has an extensive railway network, with comfortable trains and relatively affordable fares. You can book tickets online through the Romanian Railways website or at train stations.
  • Bus: Taking a bus is another option for shorter distances, with companies like Fany and Atlassib offering routes across the country.
  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available in cities, but make sure to use licensed operators and agree on the fare beforehand.

Visa Requirements

  • US citizens do not need a visa for tourism or business stays up to 90 days
  • Check with the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for specific requirements based on your nationality

Health and Safety

  • Romania is generally a safe country, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings
  • Make sure you have all necessary vaccinations before traveling, and consider purchasing travel insurance

Currency and Money

  • The local currency is the Romanian Leu (RON)
  • Credit cards are widely accepted, especially in larger cities and tourist areas. You can also exchange money at banks or currency exchange offices.

Language

  • The official language is Romanian, but many people speak English, especially among the younger population
  • Consider learning some basic Romanian phrases to enhance your travel experience