24 Reasons to Explore and Fall in Love with Romania in 2026

Medieval Towns

Romanian medieval towns are some of the quaintest in Europe. Colorful buildings and fairy tale vibes, combined with a rich historical heritage, will draw you in instantly.

Especially if you are passionate about history or medieval architecture, you will not want to miss Sighișoara, Sibiu and Brașov.

Most are located in the historic Transylvania and Wallachia regions.

Old World Charm

If you were fortunate enough to have lived during the 80s and 90s, you will remember a certain simplicity that we seem to have lost in the Western hemisphere.

Well, Romania is known for its old-world charm, which is a very refreshing perspective for anybody who's used to a fast-paced modern world.

We stayed in a slow-paced village, and that was truly one of our favorite experiences in Romania. Villagers sitting out in the evening and chatting, kids playing on the road, and a small shop/bar playing Netflix shows at the back where the villagers 'hang out.

Budget Friendly Travel

Romania is presently known as a great budget option for travelers heading to Europe. You can get decent rooms for $20 to $30, and tourism tax isn't a thing yet.

Food and drink are a fraction of what you would pay on a vacation to Italy, and many attractions are affordable for families visiting the area.

If cost-effectiveness without compromising quality is your concern, you should be heading to Romania in 2026.

No Mass Tourism

Mass-Tourism is not a thing yet in Romania, and you definitely should take advantage of that if you are the type to avoid crowds.

Romanian's travel extensively in their country during the summer break, but foreign tourists tend to still be fewer compared to overcrowded tourism towns in Western Europe.

We encountered mostly Europeans who traveled by car to the Carpathians or who flew into Bucharest for recreation. The Bran Dracula castle was by far the most internationally visited landmark in Romania.

True Wildlife

Eastern Europe is renowned for its wildlife and vast forests, and Romania should certainly be at the top of your list if you want to experience true European biodiversity.

This country respects and has been actively nurturing its wildlife population. You can encounter a remarkable diversity in the Romanian Carpathians.

While other countries in Central Europe have been terminating certain animals such as bears, wolves, and lynx, Romania has been successfully protecting them. Encountering them is a high probability.

Romanian Cuisine

Romanian cuisine tastes like a warm hug. It's home style, flavor packed and very traditional.

From polenta cheese to meats, the cuisine is like a cross between Eastern European, Central European, and Italian food.

As someone who loves food, you will want to taste Ciorba soups, Mititei meat kebabs, pickled cucumbers and vegetables, and desserts such as Papanași doughnuts.

Significant Economic Development

Development came later to the eastern bloc countries, including Romania, and for a very long time Romania was known for poverty.

Yet, the Romanian economic landscape changed over the years, and the country has been able to show great success, especially since it joined the EU in 2007.

This is most visible in the street infrastructure and digitalization. EU funds have been used to drive the country forward, and in fact, Romania's economy has been one of the highest-growing ones in the EU since 2010.

Full EU Schengen Member

Gone are the days of having to queue at the Romanian-Hungarian border for hours, which was absolutely horrible, by the way.

Romania, and also Bulgaria, have been full Schengen members since 1st January 2026, which simplifies travel within the Euro zone.

A Schengen visa provides you with access to 25 countries within Europe, and border checks are abolished.

Incredible Monasteries and Churches

We were in awe as we entered our first Romanian Orthodox church in Cluj-Napoca.

The inner walls of orthodox churches and monasteries are adorned with colorful and intricate paintings, and there are countless such wonderful, age-old structures that have a story to tell.

Some of our favorites included the Curtea de Argeș monasteries (ancient and never one), the old Sinaia Monastery and the religious buildings in Bucharest, including the Church of the Stavropoleos Monastery.

Stunning Castles

Romania is the land of castles and citadels. One of the most famous fortifications in Europe is located in Romania, Dracula's Bran castle.

Little do people know that the intricate history of Romania left behind many more magnificent palaces and picturesque castles.

The Peleș Castle, Corvin Castle, and Rupea Citadel were some of our favorite Romanian castles on our trip across the country.

Welcoming Locals

The people in Romania are some of the most welcoming in Europe that we have ever encountered.

From hosts to restaurant servers, shopkeepers to random strangers on the streets, we were always greeted with a smile and never had any issues during our 2 weeks across the country.

Romanians are easygoing, uncomplicated, and easy to talk to. Many speak English as well, which is another plus point when you want to learn more about the people of the region.

Cultural Diversity

Romania was ruled by several diverse rulers over the ages, and people came to the area due to war, economic chances, and because they were nomadic refugees from far-off lands.

Romania is culturally diverse and was influenced over the ages by the Dacians, Romans, Greeks, Goths, Huns, Magyars, Mongols, Saxon Germans, Ottomans, Roma from South Asia, and Slavic Tribes.

This cultural diversity is reflected in daily life, at special cultural events, in the food, the architecture, and everything that Romania stands for today.

Black Sea Beaches

Romania is touching the Black Sea, a large saltwater body that separates Europe and Asia.

One of the most well-known beach stretches is the artificially constructed stretch of Mamaia Beach just north of Constanța.

Mamaima beach is for all those looking for a Mallorca or Bali party experience, Eastern Europe.

Vast beaches, clubs, plenty of seafood, sunny hot weather, and warm sea waters await you in Romania.

Ancient Cities & Structures

Romania's history is intriguing.

Before the Romans conquered the area, it was known as the Dacian kingdom, run by the Dacian people.

Their capital was Sarmizegetusa, which is now a ruin located deep in the forests of Romania. People who still feel connected to the old doctrine come for a pilgrimage to this holy sanctuary.

The Romans left their mark as well with the ancient port town of Constanța and the star-shaped fortress of Alba Iulia. The latter served as a Roman camp.

Scenic Drives

One of the most nature-filled mountain drives is the legendary Transfăgărășan road.

It's a scenic road trip, and you will see more than just endless trees. We encountered wild bears and foxes, we took in the deep, unspoiled views, and we experienced the hospitality of the people along the way.

Road trip lovers should definitely travel the legendary Transfăgărășan route, which can be done with a rental, starting in Bucharest and ending in Sibiu.

Save Place

Contrary to popular belief, Romania is a very safe country to be in.

In fact, I'll go so far as to say that western European cities tend to be more dangerous than Romanian cities. Just be a bit more careful in Bucharest, especially at night.

It is common to park a car at the roadside in Romania, and you can keep it unlocked accidentally, and nothing would happen to your vehicle. This has been our experience.

We never encountered pickpockets; people didn't try to cheat using facts; it was always the contrary. People tried to offer us something free, and they were confused when we asked if it was safe to do xyz in the area.

Thermal Spa

Romania has a few outstanding hot water springs scattered around the country, and most are small outdoor springs that can be accessed freely.

Nonetheless, the Therme Bucharest is a top facility that is well known across Europe.

The Therme is a stone's throw away from the capital city, and it has the largest pool beach area in Europe. You can get a ticket for the main area, which is decorated with real palm trees, the family area, or the sauna zone.

It's well worth a trip as it's budget-friendly, and we loved our experience there.

Vibrant Folk Traditions

Countless regional folk traditions are still alive in Romania, and you can take part in these unique festivities.

Across the country, the people celebrate the onset of spring, Whit Sunday, and Midsummer, and the bear dances to ward off evil during Christmas and New Year.

On a visit to Europe's largest outdoor museum, Astra in Sibiu, you can experience more traditional folklore and dance of the region.

A Hiker's Dream

Most of the Carpathians are located in Romania, and this mountain range is home to diverse wildlife like no other in Europe.

Hikers will want to make the city of Brașov their base because from here one can get to several great hiking trails.

Head up to the Tampa mountain in Brașov via the cable car or hike the Piatra Craiului Mountains near Bran, you won't be disappointed!

Vibrant Nightlife

If partying is your thing, then Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca and Mamaima beach are your party places.

The old town of Bucharest transforms into a party mile with various bars and nightlife options.

Cluj-Napoca is known as an upscale party resort, and in Mamaima beach you will find a vibrant beach clubbing scene.

Just a quick tip, your hotel, or room host can help you get into the establishments.

Vast Salt Mines

One of our trip highlights was these massive salt mines. These are large, empty underground rooms, which were mined for salt over the ages. The most popular ones are in Turda and Praid.

Interestingly, these large underground areas have been turned into a massive play hall for families with kids. Plus, it's cool down there, which is a welcome break from the summer heat.

Romanians head to the salt mines to spend the day there, it's a Sunday picnic outing, and I think that's a fantastic experience for anybody.

Winter Sports

Romania’s Carpathian Mountains are a dream for skiers, with Poiana Brașov standing out as a top resort for all skill levels.

The slopes are well-maintained, and the views are incredible, creating the perfect setting for winter adventures. It’s also a more budget-friendly option compared to many Western ski resorts.

Traditional Crafts

From textile weaving pottery and wooden crafts, Romania is one of the few countries in Europe that has not lost its savoir faire.

Traditional Romanian crafts can be encountered in various settings across the country, and they are all made by hand, and they are usually practical.

We found high-quality pottery and regional attire at the Astra museum in Sibiu, but you will also come across true craftsmen in small villages and towns.

Romanian Wines

Another fact that not many know, is that Romania is a wine country that produces excellent red and white wines.

The regions of Southern Muntenia and Oltenia, northeastern Moldova, and Dobrogeao by the sea produce varied wines and cultivate unique native grape varieties.