Romanian Gems: Top 10 Must-Visit Destinations

Nested in the Balkan Peninsula and full of incredible attractions, Romania destinations are waiting to be discovered.

It is not yet a very developed country and for sure there are many things which could be improved but it has one of the most beautiful and serene places in Europe.

It has medieval cities, fortified churches, painted monasteries, traditions kept alive, delicious food and welcoming people! These are just some of the reasons why you should consider visiting this country.

We’ve seen so many incredible things around and we explore almost every corner of this country and I must tell you that we like it a lot.

Romania is a fascinating destination that attracts travelers from around the world with its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and cultural heritage.

When planning a trip to Romania, it’s essential to consider the travel costs involved. Travel costs in Romania are relatively affordable, making it an excellent option for budget-conscious travelers.

The cost of transportation, accommodation, and food is generally lower than in other European countries.

However, the exact expenses depend on factors such as the time of year, the level of comfort desired, and the type of activities planned.

By doing some research and careful planning, visitors can enjoy a memorable trip to Romania without breaking the bank.

Here are 10 of the most beautiful things which should be seen when visit Romania.

I know they are spread all over the country but I am sure you can do a tour across the country and include each of these places.

1. Bucharest

The capital of the country, Bucharest is the biggest city. It is located in the southeastern part of the country and is an ex-communist city which hides a lot of secrets.

The Palace of Parliament, which is one of the largest buildings in the world and the symbol of the communist regime, the Village Museum, The Old Town and its active nightlife are just some of the things to be experienced and seen when visit Bucharest.

The food is good, the people are welcoming and the town has a distinct air which makes you feel relaxed and calm.

Intercontinental Bucharest is a great hotel located close to the Old Town and the Palace of the Parliament, being one of the tops accommodations from Bucharest.

We liked this hotel because of the breakfast and the view from our room. And because within a few minutes we reached the Old Town.

2. Danube Delta one of the best Romania destinations

A unique environment with many endangered and protected species of birds, Danube Delta is the second-largest delta in Europe, after Volga Delta.

It is located on the eastern part of the country right near the Black Sea.

In this part of Romania, the time has stopped and everything remains as it was a few years ago.

Life is very hard for the ones who live here! It is a constant struggle to get bare necessities.

The main ingredient is fish and for us, as tourists in love with wildlife, this place is like heaven on earth.

From the moment I discovered this place I fell in love with it and each year I go back to explore more from it.

Last year, we booked four nights at Green Village Danube Delta a great resort located on one of the main canals, right where the Danube flows into the Black Sea.

We enjoyed our time spent at the beach, we did trips on the canals and we got to know the locals’ lives better. It was a unique experience which we won’t forget soon!

3. Painted monasteries Romania destinations

These monasteries are unique in Europe. They were built a few centuries ago, between 1450- 1590 and are UNESCO World Heritage Sites since 1993.

There are 8 monasteries of this kind and all are located in Bucovina, a very popular Romania destination located on the northern side of the country.

The way these monasteries were built and painted make these places unique monuments in the world. The architecture and the painting from the walls of the monasteries reflect the golden age of the Moldavian.

The general feeling when visiting these masterpieces is overwhelming. You will be fascinated by the beautiful paintings from the monasteries’ walls, by the peace and serenity of those places.

4. The Merry Cemetery

Cimitirul Vesel or The Merry Cemetery is located in the north part of the country, very close to the painted monasteries.

The cemetery has more than 750 wooden crosses and on each of them, there is a funny story which tells you true stories more about that person: if he was a party lover, or an alcoholic, or a very smart person, etc.

A book containing the messages from the crosses and its meanings have been written and published. Who would have believed that?!

5. Cluj Napoca best Romania destinations

This is one of the biggest cities of Romania, a city located in Transylvania, the central province of the country.

Unofficial, the city is the capital of Transylvania and is also called the Silicon Valley of Romania.

It is a very important university city with lots of students not just from Romania but also from other countries in the world.

The city impresses with its Saxon and Hungarian architecture and is famous among party lovers thanks to the UNTOLD festival, one of the most vibrant and important festivals from Europe.

The Botanical Garden, the haunted Hoia Forest or St Michael’s Church are just some of the places to explore when visit Cluj.

It is a popular destination among tourists, so our advice is to book in advance the accommodation, just to secure the best price-quality ratio.

Find the perfect accommodation for your stay in Cluj Napoca

6. Turda Salt Mine

Turda Salt Mine is one of the best attractions in Transylvania and also in Romania. The Salt mine is located very close to Cluj Napoca, making for it a great day trip destination.

From Cluj you can reach the salt mine by public transport or if you book a tour which includes a visit to another beautiful place from the nearby, the Rimetea Gorges.

From Cluj: Turda Salt Mine and Gorge and Rimetea Village is a great 10 hours tour with a professional guide and you will have the opportunity to see the salt mine and to take a two hours hike on the Rimetea Gorges.

You don’t have to worry about the meeting point because the tour includes pick up and drop off to your hotel.

Inside the salt mine, there is an amusement park and a museum and as well as an underground lake.

7. Sibiu one of the most picturesque Romania destination

Sibiu is the best example of a Saxon town from Transylvania. It is a very beautiful town located right near the Carpathian mountains which wonderful architecture and one of the most beautiful Christmas Markets from Europe.

Find the perfect accommodation for your stay in Sibiu

The Brukenthal Museum, The Bridge of Lies, Astra National Museum and the Council Tower of Sibiu are just some of the things you should visit.

But what you will like most is the atmosphere from this city, its paved streets and most of all the food and the people.

This is one of the best places to try local cuisine and to get new friends.

8. Sighisoara

Hidden between lush hills and beautiful landscape, Sighisoara is the last inhabited medieval fortress from Europe.

It is located in Transylvania and it is very easy to reach from your way to Sibiu to Brasov by car.

I don’t know if I told you already, but the best way to explore the country and see all these wonderful places is by car.

You can rent a car from Bucharest airport at prices starting from 30 USD per day and so you have the freedom and the mobility so needed when exploring a country.

Get the best price for your car rental today

The main attraction of the city is the Old Citadel, the Clock Tower and the Covered Stairways.

What I liked most about this Romania destination is the Old Citadel, to be honest with you! We even did our trash the dress photo session here! It is such a romantic place!

9. Viscri

I don’t know if you have ever heard about Viscri! It is a very small village located on your way from Sighisoara to Brasov.

It is a place where time has stopped and things are moving after another dimension. It is the typical Transylvania village with its traditions and rituals.

Prince Charles from the UK is a big fan of this area. Her Majesty has many properties in the area and is one of the most important contributors and promoters of the culture and traditions from that part of the world.

We definitely recommend you to spend at least one night in a traditional house in this beautiful city. Don’t hesitate and get involved in the villagers’ household activities and for a couple of days while you are there live a simple but very happy life.
Here are our suggestions of available accommodations in Viscri area << click

10. Brasov

A beautiful mountain resort located right near the Carpathian Mountains with many interesting attractions and ski resorts in the area, Brasov is a must-see destination Romania.

Find the perfect accommodation for your stay in Brasov

The Black Church located in the city centre or the narrowest street from Romania is just one of the things you should visit.

In the area near Brasov, there are very lovely mountain resorts ideal for winter sports and for summer hiking. Predeal, Azuga, Sinaia are just some of the mountain resorts very popular among tourists.

The Peles Castle from Sinaia and the Dracula’s castle ( Bran Castle) from Bran are a must-see on your list.

A great idea is to set your base in Brasov and from there do daily trips in the nearby area.

You will be fascinated by the beauty of the places and by people’s hospitality.

For a complete tour across the country, we recommend spending at least 2 weeks in Romania.

The good news is that the country is pretty cheap and you don’t need a lot of money to visit it! But trust me! It is one of the most beautiful countries I have ever seen!