Plan a trip to Romania

On a trip to Romania, you will discover captivating landscapes stretching from the Carpathian Mountains to the Black Sea, historical landmarks, medieval fortresses, charming towns and villages, breathtaking natural beauty, and traditional flavors. The Romanian people are renowned for their warm hospitality to tourists, and they offer quality services at reasonable prices.

Here is a selection of great cities and towns to visit in Romania:

Bucharest: Bucharest’s main attraction is the Palace of the Parliament, one of the world's largest buildings and an architectural masterpiece adorned with marble, crystal, and a lavish interior. The National Museum of Art boasts an extensive collection of Romanian and European works of art, and the Village Museum offers an immersive experience into traditional Romanian village life through authentic dwellings and workshops.  In Bucharest, you'll encounter numerous markets like Obor Market, a vibrant local market offering everything from fresh produce and meats to clothing and art. And, of course, Bucharest's Christmas Market is a festive delight during the holidays, featuring stalls with art, gifts, and seasonal treats. The local cuisine includes delicious dishes such as "mămăligă" (cornmeal mush), "sarmale" (cabbage rolls), "ciorbă de perișoare" (meatball soup), and delightful pastries.

Brasov: Brasov’s focal point is Bran Castle, a renowned fortress often associated with Dracula, which features medieval architecture and stunning views. Brasov is also home to several outstanding museums, including the Black Church, a Gothic masterpiece housing historical artifacts and an impressive collection of Anatolian carpets, and the Brasov History Museum that chronicles the city's history through exhibitions spanning from medieval times to the present. At Council Square in Brasov, you'll find a bustling market with local art, souvenirs, and traditional Transylvanian foods, such as "tciorbă de bură" (tripe soup), "mici" (grilled minced meat rolls), stuffed polenta with cheese, "carnați la cuptor" (oven-baked sausages), pork shank, and "bulz" (polenta with cheese).

Sibiu: Sibiu’s old town, a remarkably preserved medieval town with charming squares and historic buildings, is its main attraction. The Brukenthal National Museum hosts a diverse collection of art, including paintings, sculptures, and ornamental art. The ASTRA Museum of Traditional Folk Civilization displays rural architecture, art, and age-old customs, and the Farmer's Market offers an array of fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and art.

Cluj-Napoca: The capital of Transylvania shines with its abundant beauty, and St. Michael's Church, a Gothic masterpiece, stands at its center. The botanical gardens are impressive with their diverse variety of plants. In the city center, you'll discover Central Park with recreational areas and a lake, and, at the Museum Square, you can enjoy a variety of museums and cafes. To explore Transylvanian culture, visit the Ethnographic Museum, and the Antique and Handicraft Market (Piața Unirii) caters to art and antiquity enthusiasts.

Timisoara: Nestled in the heart of Timisoara is the Union Square, a Baroque architectural masterpiece that is surrounded by colorful buildings with the distinctive Holy Trinity Monument at its center. The Timisoara Art Museum presents Romanian and European art from medieval times to the present. For a culinary adventure, explore the city's Farmer's Market, where the unique flavors of Transylvanian cuisine come to life, featuring delicacies like stuffed cabbage leaves (sarmale in foi de varza) and savory grilled minced meat rolls (mici).

Sighisoara: The central attraction in this small and historically rich city is Sighisoara Citadel, which dates back to the medieval era. The Clock Tower houses the History Museum of the city, displaying artifacts, photographs, and exhibitions spanning hundreds of years of the city's history, and offers panoramic views of the city.

Constance: Nestled along the Black Sea's shore, Constance boasts its crown jewel—the Casino building—considered one of the world’s most beautiful Art Nouveau buildings. While the Onel Museum (Muzeul Onel) is a popular museum in the city, be sure to visit the Keltis National History and Archaeology Museum (Muzeul de Istorie Națională și Arheologie Keltis). Housed in a grand, outstanding building, it showcases unique exhibits of local history and mosaics. Culinary delights await in Constance, with its seafood and cuisine richly influenced by surrounding Balkan countries.

Sinaia: Sinaia’s main highlight is the Peleș Castle, a Neo-Renaissance architectural masterpiece built in the late 19th century, which served as a royal residence. Today, it stands as an exquisite museum displaying historical artifacts and decorative art. Its Neo-Renaissance style dining room, adorned with remarkable wooden items and works, is its focal point. The local Farmer's Market offers an opportunity to savor the local cuisine and fresh produce. Indulge in "mămăligă brânză și smântână," a dish with cheese and cream, and crispy fried pork bits "jumări".

Săpânţa: Săpânţa’s unique attraction is Cimitirul Vesel, “The Merry Cemetery", with over 800 colorful tombstones adorned with vivid crosses in a simple style. The cemetery narrates the personal stories of the locals in a whimsical manner.

Bran Castle: Often referred to as "Dracula's Castle," Bran Castle is a historical fortress located in Bran, on the border between Transylvania and Wallachia. The castle is renowned for its connection to the legend of Dracula. Built in the 14th century, the castle served as a strategic defense fortress for mountain pass routes. Bran Castle houses a museum that exhibits art and furnishings from the collection of Queen Marie of Romania.