Romania quickly became one of my favorite European destinations, having visited most countries across the continent. My decision to explore Romania came during a few months I spent in Serbia; I thought it was a great opportunity to see neighboring countries. Initially, I had little expectations about Romania, as it’s not often talked about in the States. Similar to the charm of Serbia but with its unique charm, somewhat reminiscent of any other Balkan country.
The best time to visit Romania would be in Spring and Fall as summer gets extremely hot and most places do not offer AC. Also you will need to rent a car as the train system can’t connect you well to these remote cities.
Enjoy this high-level itinerary to get you excited on your visit to Romania. For a detailed hour-by-hour plan that includes all your bookings, allowing you to simply show up and follow my curated itinerary for an unforgettable journey, check out the itineraries tab for more information!
Day 1-2: Bucharest
- Morning: Begin your exploration of Bucharest’s historic center with a guided tour of the imposing Palace of the Parliament, one of the largest buildings in Europe. Continue to Revolution Square, a hub of historical significance, and visit the beautiful Stavropoleos Monastery.
- Afternoon: Immerse yourself in Romanian culture at the Village Museum, showcasing traditional village life. Enjoy a traditional Romanian lunch at Caru’ cu Bere, a historic restaurant with stunning architecture.
- Evening: Dive into Bucharest’s vibrant nightlife in the Old Town. Explore the bustling streets, filled with charming cafes, lively bars, and live music. Don’t miss the opportunity to dine at Hanu’ lui Manuc, known for its authentic Romanian cuisine.
- Nightlife in Bucharest: Explore the vibrant nightlife scene in Bucharest, including trendy rooftop bars like Nomad Skybar, chic cocktail lounges like Energiea, and lively clubs like Fratelli or Control Club for a memorable night out.
Hidden Gem: Discover the hidden charm of the Macca-Vilacrosse Passage, an artistic alley filled with colorful umbrellas and street art.
Day 3-4: Brasov and Bran
- Morning: Explore Brasov’s well-preserved Old Town, starting with the iconic Black Church and continuing to the picturesque Council Square. Climb up the Council Tower for panoramic views of the city. This city was the highlight of my trip in Romania, the people watching was topnotch. This city was very similar to a Serbian or Croatian town.
- Afternoon: Embark on a scenic drive to Bran Castle, often associated with the Dracula legend. Take your time exploring the castle’s history and enjoy the surrounding landscape.
- Evening: Return to Brasov for a delightful dinner at Sergiana, known for its traditional Transylvanian dishes. Alternatively, try La Ceaun for a cozy atmosphere and local flavors.
- Transfăgărășan: Consider adding a day trip to Transfăgărășan Highway, one of the most scenic drives in Europe, offering breathtaking views of the Carpathian Mountains. Accessible by car or joining a guided tour.
Hidden Gem: Explore the narrow streets and medieval charm of Rope Street (Strada Sforii) in Brasov, one of the narrowest streets in Europe.
Day 5-6: Sibiu and surroundings
- Morning: Discover Sibiu’s charm with a visit to its Old Town, home to the impressive Brukenthal National Museum and the iconic Council Tower. Wander through the cobblestone streets lined with colorful houses.
- Afternoon: Take a leisurely drive to the nearby Transylvanian villages of Biertan and Viscri, known for their fortified churches and authentic rural life. Explore these hidden gems and interact with locals.
- Evening: Return to Sibiu for dinner at Crama Sibiul Vechi, offering a cozy atmosphere and delicious Romanian cuisine. Alternatively, try Hermania for a modern twist on traditional dishes.
Hidden Gem: Visit the ASTRA Museum of Traditional Folk Civilization, an open-air museum showcasing Romania’s cultural heritage with exhibits of traditional houses, workshops, and folk art.
Day 7-8: Cluj-Napoca and Turda
- Morning: Begin your day in Cluj-Napoca with a visit to the impressive Museum of Art and a leisurely stroll along the elegant Marty Boulevard.
- Afternoon: Experience the surreal underground world of Turda Salt Mine, a fascinating blend of history and modern attractions. Take a boat ride on the underground lake and explore the chambers.
- Evening: Indulge in dinner at Casa Boema, offering a blend of Romanian and international cuisine in a stylish setting. Alternatively, try Casa Turca for authentic Turkish dishes.
Hidden Gem: Explore the natural beauty of Turda Gorge (Cheile Turzii), a stunning canyon with hiking trails and breathtaking rock formations.
Day 9-10: Maramures
- Morning: Explore the unique Merry Cemetery in Sapanta, known for its colorful tombstones depicting the life stories of the deceased. Visit Barsana Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its wooden architecture.
- Afternoon: Discover the enchanting Wooden Churches of Maramures, scattered throughout the region and showcasing intricate craftsmanship. Hike up Ieud Hill for panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
- Evening: Conclude your journey with a traditional Maramures dinner at Casa Iurca, offering upscale Maramures cuisine in a charming rural setting.
Hidden Gem: Experience the traditional way of life at the Memorial of the Communist Gulag in Sighetu Marmatiei, reflecting on Romania’s history during the Communist era.
This expanded itinerary provides a more detailed exploration of each destination, including specific dining recommendations and hidden gems for a memorable Romanian experience.
Bonus Days in Sighisoara: My favorite city; however little bit harder to get too
Day 11-12: Sighisoara
- Morning: Explore the medieval charm of Sighisoara’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its well-preserved citadel. Visit the Clock Tower and climb to the top for panoramic views.
- Afternoon: Discover the history of the region at the Sighisoara Citadel Museum and explore the narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful houses.
- Evening: Enjoy dinner at Casa Vlad Dracul, offering traditional Romanian cuisine in a historic setting within the citadel.
Hidden Gem: Visit the Church on the Hill (Biserica din Deal) for stunning views of Sighisoara and its surroundings. Accessible on foot from the Old Town.
The Life of Sarah 