Romania
Welcome to ‘Northern Wanderers‘ – Journey into the Heart of Romania
Embark on an enchanting odyssey with us, ‘Northern Wanderers‘, as we unveil the mystical allure of Romania. Nestled in the rich tapestry of Eastern Europe, Romania is a realm where ancient folklore entwines with modern vibrancy, offering a travel experience steeped in mystery and charm.
At ‘Northern Wanderers‘, we’re passionate about revealing the hidden gems and celebrated wonders of Romania. From the shadowy forests of Transylvania, echoing tales of Dracula, to the bustling streets of Bucharest, brimming with history and culture, our blog is your quintessential guide to this beguiling nation.
Why Romania with Northern Wanderers? Our journey through Romania is more than just a trip; it’s an exploration of a land where time-honoured traditions meld seamlessly with contemporary life. Romania’s diverse landscape, ranging from the Carpathian Mountains’ rugged wilderness to the serene Danube Delta, offers a plethora of experiences for every type of traveller.
What our guides offer:
- Enthralling Adventures: Trek through the Carpathians, explore medieval castles, or unwind on the Black Sea coast.
- Cultural Riches: Dive into Romania’s vibrant arts, folklore, and festivals.
- Culinary Journeys: Taste the unique flavours of Romanian cuisine, a delightful blend of influences.
- Travel Insights: Benefit from our expert tips on local accommodations, transport, and must-visit spots.
- Personal Stories: Join us as we share our personal encounters and the intriguing tales we uncover.
Best Time To Visit
Romania: A Land of Diverse Seasons, Each Offering Unique Charms.
Spring (March to May): Enjoy warm weather (10°C to 20°C) and nature in bloom. Ideal for cultural festivals and exploring historic cities like Bucharest and Sibiu, and witnessing the blossoming Carpathian Mountains and Transylvanian countryside.
Summer (June to August): Hot weather (up to 30°C), perfect for beach lovers at the Black Sea coast and festival goers. Enjoy sunbathing, water sports, and a vibrant cultural scene with music and film festivals.
Autumn (September to November): Cooler temperatures (15°C to 25°C) make it great for wine lovers and nature enthusiasts. Experience wine festivals in regions like Moldova and Transylvania and enjoy the scenic beauty of autumnal foliage.
Winter (December to February): A snowy wonderland, especially in mountain areas like Prahova Valley, ideal for skiing and snowboarding. Cities like Brasov and Sibiu offer festive charm with Christmas markets, with temperatures ranging from 0°C to 10°C in urban areas.
What To Expect
Capital: Bucharest
Population:19.12 million (2021)
Language: The official language of Romania is Romanian, a Romance language with strong similarities to Italian. Romania also has quite a few minority languages, including Hungarian and Romani.
Currency: The official currency in Romanian leu (RON). 1 USD is equivalent to about 5.5 RON around £1 GBP. Check the latest rates here
Credit Cards & ATMs: Cards and contactless payments are popular with Romanians. Card schemes Visa and Mastercard are used the most. During the pandemic, cash payments greatly decreased, resulting in more card and contactless payments. A lot of places will now also accept contactless payments like Apple Pay or Google pay.
Plugs: For Romania there are two associated plug types, types C and F. Plug type C is the plug which has two round pins and plug type F is the plug which has two round pins with two earth clips on the side. Romania operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz. I recommend buying a universal adapter
Safety: Romania is one of the safest countries in Europe. Its crime rate is low, and most tourists enjoy a stress-free journey in this gorgeous country.
Top 5 Things to See and Do in Romania
(Note: Romania is brimming with activities. Truly, there’s an abundance to explore and experience. The following are just a few of our top picks. For more country-specific activities, refer to the detailed guides linked to each country below!)
1. Visit Bran Castle in Transylvania
Often associated with the legend of Dracula, Bran Castle is a must-see in Romania. Perched atop a hill, this 14th-century fortress offers stunning views and a rich history. Explore its rooms and learn about its connection to Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula.
2. Explore Bucharest's Old Town
Bucharest, Romania’s capital, is known for its vibrant history and culture. The Old Town, Lipscani, is filled with charming streets, historic buildings, lively cafes, and shops. Don’t miss the impressive Palace of the Parliament, the second largest administrative building in the world after the Pentagon.
3. Take a Scenic Drive on the Transfagarasan Highway
Known as one of the most beautiful roads in the world, the Transfagarasan Highway winds through the Carpathian Mountains, offering breathtaking views. It’s a thrilling drive with sharp turns and steep descents, perfect for adventure seekers.
4. Discover the Painted Monasteries of Bucovina
These UNESCO World Heritage Sites are famous for their exterior frescoes depicting biblical scenes, unique in the world for their artistic value and placement. The monasteries, such as Voronet, known as the “Sistine Chapel of the East,” are a testament to Romania’s rich religious and cultural history.
5. Visit the Capital City, Tirana
Near the city of Oradea, Baile Felix is renowned for its thermal springs and spa resorts. It’s the perfect place to relax and rejuvenate, with therapeutic waters known for their healing properties. The area also offers beautiful parks and nature reserves.
Travel Guides
Below you will find guides on places in Romania and reasons to visit Romania
Book Tours and Purchase Tickets
Travel Resources
*Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I only recommend products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.