What You Need to Know Before Traveling to Romania

Romania is where medieval castles, forested mountains, and charming villages come together under one sky. From the mystical charm of Transylvania to the buzzing energy of Bucharest, this is a country where legends live alongside local life, and hospitality is part of the culture.

If you're planning a short getaway or a full week of discovery, here’s what you need to know before your trip — practical, welcoming, and designed with curious travelers in mind.

Arriving in Romania: Entry, Visas & First Impressions

As of 2025, Romania is a full member of the Schengen Area, meaning travelers arriving from other Schengen countries can enjoy completely border-free travel, whether by land, sea, or air.

Citizens of the EU, UK, USA, Canada, Australia, and many other countries can enter visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period across the Schengen Zone. If you're already traveling within Europe, entering Romania is now as simple as crossing into another region.

Most international flights arrive at Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP) in Bucharest, a modern and efficient hub. From here, reaching other parts of the country is easy by train, rental car, or domestic flights.

Language, Currency & Communication

The official language is Romanian, a Romance language with Latin roots — making it surprisingly accessible if you speak French, Italian, or Spanish. English is widely spoken in cities, hotels, and among younger people.

Romania uses the Romanian Leu (RON). While the country is in the EU, it has not adopted the euro. Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand for local markets and rural stops. ATMs are easy to find.

SIM cards are affordable and available at the airport or in city shops. Popular providers include Orange, Vodafone, and Digi. You’ll get strong 4G/5G coverage for just a few euros.

Getting Around the Country

Romania is well connected by train, bus, and domestic flights, but distances between regions can be long. Major cities like Brașov, Sibiu, Cluj-Napoca, and Iași are linked by scenic train routes, though travel can be slow.

For maximum flexibility — especially if you're heading into the Carpathian Mountains or smaller villages — a guided tour or private driver offers comfort and insight. In urban areas, taxis, Ubers, Bolt, and public transit are reliable and inexpensive.

Health, Safety & Emergency Info

Romania is a very safe country for travelers. Crime rates are low, and locals are welcoming and respectful. Pickpocketing can occur in busy areas, so take usual precautions.

Tap water is safe to drink in most places, but many locals still prefer bottled. Pharmacies are common and well-stocked, and no special vaccinations are required. Standard European emergency number 112 works nationwide for police, ambulance, and fire.

Travel insurance is always a good idea, especially if you plan to hike or drive in remote regions.

Food, Culture & Local Etiquette

Romanian cuisine is rich, earthy, and deeply satisfying. Be sure to try sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), mămăligă (cornmeal with cheese or sour cream), ciorbă de burtă (tripe soup), and papanasi (fried doughnuts with jam and cream). You’ll also find fantastic local wine, cheeses, and cured meats.

Meals are a social affair, and if you’re invited into someone’s home, prepare for generous hospitality. A shot of țuică (plum brandy) is the traditional welcome — don’t be surprised if it’s offered before noon!

Culturally, Romanians are warm and expressive. Modest dress is appreciated in churches, and it’s customary to greet with a handshake or kiss on both cheeks among friends.

When to Visit Romania

The best times to visit Romania are spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October), when the weather is mild, and the countryside is alive with flowers or golden leaves. These months are perfect for hiking, exploring castles, and soaking up local life.

Summer (July to August) is great for beachgoers and mountain trekkers, though popular sites can be busy. Winter (December to February) brings snow to the Carpathians, festive markets, and great skiing in areas like Poiana Brașov and Sinaia.

Climate, Packing & Electricity

Romania has a continental climate — warm summers, cold winters, and four distinct seasons. If you're visiting the mountains, expect quick weather changes, even in summer.

Pack layers, a light jacket or umbrella in spring and fall, and sturdy walking shoes for cobbled towns and country trails. In winter, bring warm clothes and waterproof boots if you plan to explore snowy areas.

Electricity is 230V, and Romania uses European plug types C and F. Bring a universal adapter if you're coming from the UK, US, or outside the EU.

Budget & Travel Costs

Romania is one of the best-value destinations in the EU. A hearty meal costs €5–8, and a daily mid-range budget — covering accommodation, food, and transport — sits between €40–80.

Whether you're staying in a family-run guesthouse, riding a horse-drawn cart through a rural village, or walking through medieval towns, you'll find your money goes far — and the experiences even further.

Ready to Travel?

Romania is a country of contrasts and charm. It's a place where ancient traditions are alive and well, where forest trails lead to mountaintop monasteries, and where strangers quickly become friends.

Let us help you experience Romania with depth and authenticity.
Book your tour with us, and see the country the way it was meant to be explored — through stories, landscapes, and the people who call it home.