Romania Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
Planning & Logistics
Is Romania in the Schengen Area? Yes, as of 2024, Romania joined the Schengen Area for air and sea travel, though land border checks may still apply in some contexts.
What is the best time to visit? May to June and September to October offer the best weather. July and August can be extremely hot, especially in Bucharest.
Do I need a visa? US, UK, Canadian, and EU citizens do not need a visa for stays under 90 days.
What is the local currency? The Romanian Leu (RON). It is a plastic (polymer) currency.
Are Euros accepted? Generally no. You must pay in RON, though some hotels may list prices in Euro.
Can I use my credit card? Yes, cards are widely accepted in cities, but always carry cash for rural areas, markets, and small guesthouses.
Are contactless payments common? Very. You can even pay for bus and metro fares by tapping your card in most major cities.
What is the tipping culture? It’s customary to tip around 10% in restaurants. Tipping is starting to appear on card machines, but cash is preferred.
Is the tap water safe to drink? It is safe in major cities, but many locals and travelers prefer bottled or filtered water for the taste.
What power plug is used? Type F (standard European two-pin), 230V.
How is the internet speed? Romania has some of the fastest and cheapest internet in the world.
Should I get a local SIM card? Yes, they are very cheap (around $6–$10) and offer massive data packages.
Is English widely spoken? Among the younger generation and in tourist hubs, yes. In rural areas, it’s less common.
Is Romania expensive? Compared to Western Europe, it is very affordable. A decent meal costs $10–$15.
What is the emergency number? 112 for all services.
Are there many ATMs? Yes, in all towns and cities. Avoid “Euronet” ATMs to bypass high fees; use bank-affiliated ones like BCR or BRD.
Is it a good destination for solo female travelers? Yes, it is consistently ranked as one of the safest countries in Europe.
Can I travel Romania on a budget? Absolutely. Backpackers can get by on $40–$50 a day.
How many days do I need? At least 10–14 days to see Bucharest and the main Transylvanian highlights.
Is the country kid-friendly? Very. Romanians generally love children and many parks have excellent play areas.
Transportation
Should I rent a car? Highly recommended for Transylvania and rural Maramures, as public transport there is slow.
What are the roads like? Main roads are decent, but there are few motorways. Expect single-lane roads through mountains.
Is driving in Bucharest difficult? Yes, traffic is heavy and aggressive. Use public transport or ride-sharing instead.
Does Uber/Bolt work? Yes, both are widely available and very affordable in major cities.
Are taxis safe? Generally, but always use an app (Bolt/Uber) or a dispatched taxi to avoid being overcharged.
How are the trains? They are reliable but slow. Use the CFR Calatori website/app for schedules.
Are there private trains? Yes, companies like Softrans and Astra Trans Carpatic are often cleaner and faster than the state trains.
Is there a metro in Bucharest? Yes, it’s efficient and covers most of the city.
What is BlaBlaCar? A popular ride-sharing app in Romania used for inter-city travel; it’s often faster than the train.
Can I fly between cities? Yes, TAROM and HiSky offer domestic flights (e.g., Bucharest to Cluj or Iasi).
Are buses/minibuses (microbuze) good? They are common for short distances but can be cramped and lack AC.
How do I get from Otopeni Airport to Bucharest city center? The 24/7 train to Gara de Nord is the fastest (20 mins), or take the 100 bus.
Is hitchhiking common? It used to be a cultural norm, but it’s less common now with the rise of ride-sharing.
Are there tolls? You must buy a “Rovinieta” (road tax) to drive on national roads. It’s usually included in rentals.
What is the drink-driving limit? 0.0%. Romania has a zero-tolerance policy.
Are there night trains? Yes, they are a great way to save on a night’s accommodation (e.g., Bucharest to Sighetu Marmatiei).
Can I take a bike on the train? Only on designated trains with a bicycle icon on the schedule.
How is the parking situation? Difficult in city centers. Use apps like “AmParcat” to pay.
Is the Transfagarasan road open in winter? No, it usually closes from late October to June due to snow.
Are there electric car chargers? Yes, the network is growing rapidly in cities and at major gas stations.
Destinations & Sightseeing
Is Bucharest worth visiting? Yes, for its “Little Paris” architecture, vibrant Old Town, and history.
What is the Palace of the Parliament? The second-largest administrative building in the world; you must book a tour in advance.
Is Bran Castle worth it? It’s very touristy. Go early to avoid crowds, but many prefer Peles or Corvin Castle.
What is Peles Castle? A Neo-Renaissance masterpiece in Sinaia, often cited as one of the most beautiful in Europe.
What should I see in Brasov? The Black Church, Council Square, and the cable car up Tampa Mountain.
Is Sighisoara special? It’s one of the few inhabited medieval citadels in Europe and the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler.
What is the “Eyes of Sibiu”? The characteristic attic windows in Sibiu that look like eyes watching you.
Where is the best hiking? The Bucegi, Fagaras, and Retezat Mountains.
What is the Merry Cemetery? A unique cemetery in Sapanta with colorful crosses and humorous poems about the deceased.
Are the Painted Monasteries in Bucovina worth the trip? Yes, they are UNESCO sites with stunning 15th-century frescoes.
What is the Turda Salt Mine? An underground theme park in a massive salt mine—unlike anything else in the world.
What can I do in the Danube Delta? Take a boat tour for birdwatching; it’s one of the most biodiverse places in Europe.
Is the Black Sea coast nice? Mamaia is for partying; Vama Veche is for a bohemian/hippie vibe.
What is Corvin Castle? A Gothic-Renaissance castle in Hunedoara that looks like it’s straight out of a movie.
Where can I see bears? The Libearty Bear Sanctuary in Zarnesti is the most ethical way to see rescued brown bears.
What is the Transalpina? The highest road in Romania, offering even more dramatic views than the Transfagarasan.
Are there thermal spas? Therme Bucharest is one of the largest wellness centers in Europe and highly recommended.
What are the “Wooden Churches” of Maramures? High-steepled UNESCO wooden churches that showcase traditional craftsmanship.
Is Cluj-Napoca worth a visit? Yes, it’s the “Silicon Valley of Europe” with a youthful, vibrant atmosphere.
What is the Sphinx? A natural rock formation in the Bucegi Mountains that resembles a sphinx.
Food & Drink
What is the national dish? Sarmale (minced meat rolled in cabbage leaves) served with mamaliga (polenta).
What are Mici? Grilled ground meat rolls, a staple of Romanian BBQs.
What is Papanasi? A traditional fried doughnut dessert topped with sour cream and blueberry jam.
What is Ciorba? A category of sour soups (Tripe, Meatball, Vegetable) that are essential to any meal.
Is Romanian wine good? Excellent and underrated. Try Feteasca Neagra (red) or Feteasca Regala (white).
What is Tuica/Palinca? Strong plum brandy (40–60% alcohol). Approach with caution!
Are there vegetarian options? Yes, look for “mancare de post” (fasting food), which is vegan-friendly.
Is the street food good? Yes, try a “Covrig” (Romanian pretzel) or “Gogosi” (doughnuts).
What is Salata de Vinete? A delicious smoky roasted eggplant dip.
Can I find craft beer? Yes, the craft beer scene is exploding in Bucharest, Brasov, and Cluj.
How is the coffee? Romanians take coffee seriously; specialty coffee shops are everywhere in cities.
What is a “Meniu Zilei”? A “Menu of the Day,” usually a 2-course meal for a very low price ($5–$8).
Is breakfast included in hotels? Usually, and it’s typically a hearty spread of cold meats, cheeses, and eggs.
What is Bulz? A traditional shepherd’s dish of polenta balls stuffed with cheese and grilled.
Should I eat in the Old Town? In Bucharest, many places are tourist traps. Look for restaurants with local crowds nearby.
Safety & Etiquette
Are there many stray dogs? The “stray dog problem” has been largely solved in major cities, though you may see some in rural areas.
Should I worry about bears while hiking? Yes. Carry bear spray, make noise, and never hike alone in dense forests.
Is pickpocketing common? No more than in any other major European city; just use common sense.
Do I need to carry my passport? Legally, you should have ID on you, but a photo on your phone is usually fine for daily life.
How should I dress for churches? Modestly. Women should ideally cover their shoulders; some monasteries provide wrap-around skirts.
What are the common scams? The “fake policeman” or “overcharging taxi” scams are rare now but still exist. Stick to apps for transport.
Is it rude not to finish my food? No, but it’s a compliment to the host if you do.
How do I say “Thank you”? “Multumesc” (mool-tzoo-mesk).
What is the general attitude toward tourists? Romanians are generally very hospitable and proud to show off their country.
Is LGBTQ+ travel safe? It is safe, but the country is socially conservative. Public displays of affection may draw stares in rural areas.
Experiences & Culture
What is a “Pensiune”? A traditional guesthouse, often the best way to experience Romanian hospitality.
What should I buy as a souvenir? An “Ie” (traditional embroidered blouse), painted eggs, or local honey/jams.
Are there many festivals? Yes, Untold (Cluj) and Saga (Bucharest) for music; the Sibiu International Theatre Festival is world-class.
Is there a winter market? Sibiu and Brasov host beautiful Christmas markets.
What is the “Ceausescu” history? You can visit his former residence (Primaverii Palace) to see the luxury the dictator lived in.
Can I go skiing? Yes, Poiana Brasov and Sinaia are the most popular resorts.
Are museums closed on Mondays? Yes, almost all museums in Romania are closed on Mondays and sometimes Tuesdays.
What is the “Hora”? A traditional circle dance you might see at weddings or festivals.
Is there a “Dracula” vibe? Aside from Bran Castle kitsch, the “vampire” thing isn’t really part of Romanian culture.
How is the nightlife? Bucharest has some of the best nightlife in Europe, especially in the Lipscani area.
Can I visit the Roma communities? It’s best done through a guided, ethical cultural tour to avoid intrusive “poverty tourism.”
Is it worth visiting the Salt Mountain in Slanic? Yes, it’s the largest salt mine in Europe and great for respiratory health.
Can I see the Sphinx and Babele easily? Yes, there is a cable car from Busteni, though lines can be long.
Is Romania part of the Eurozone? No, it uses the Leu, though it aims to adopt the Euro in the future.
What is the one thing I shouldn’t miss? A sunset over the Carpathian Mountains from a high-altitude road or peak.