Best Cities to Visit in Romania
Sort by: Popular
Frequently asked questions
What are the best cities to visit in Romania?
Bucharest, Brasov, Cluj-Napoca, Sibiu and Sighisoara as the best cities to visit in Romania. These cities offer a variety of cultural, historical, and natural attractions that appeal to many travelers. Bucharest is the capital known for its grand architecture and vibrant nightlife. Brasov charms visitors with its medieval old town and proximity to the Carpathian Mountains.
Cluj-Napoca is a lively university city with baroque architecture. Meanwhile, Sibiu and Sighisoara stand out for their well-preserved historic centers. Together, these cities showcase the country's rich heritage and diverse experiences, making them top travel destinations in Romania.
Which city in Romania is best for first-time visitors?
Bucharest is the best city in Romania for first-time visitors. As the country's capital, Bucharest offers a comprehensive introduction to Romanian culture, history, and urban life. Visitors can explore landmarks like the Palace of the Parliament and the Old Town's cafes and museums. Its international airport and good transport connections make arrival and travel easier. Bucharest's mix of history, culture, and accessibility makes it the ideal starting point for newcomers to Romania.
What are the most beautiful cities in Romania?
The most beautiful cities in Romania are Brasov, Sibiu, and Sighisoara. These cities are renowned for their picturesque streets, colorful buildings, and historic architecture.
Brasov's medieval squares and mountain backdrop create stunning views. Sibiu's grand squares and baroque buildings attract art lovers and photographers. Sighisoara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is famous for its vibrant old town and fortified walls. These cities' timeless beauty and cultural significance firmly establish them as Romania's most scenic destinations.
Which cities in Romania are best for culture and history?
Romania's best cities for culture and history are Bucharest, Sibiu, and Sighisoara. These cities hold numerous museums, historic churches, and preserved medieval architecture that tell Romania's rich story.
Bucharest houses the National Museum of Romanian History and the Romanian Athenaeum. Sibiu is known for its cultural festivals and historical squares. Sighisoara offers a glimpse into medieval life with its fortified citadel and colorful streets. Their wealth of cultural landmarks confirms their importance for history-focused travelers.
What are the best cities in Romania for nightlife and entertainment?
Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca are the best cities in Romania for nightlife and entertainment. Both cities have vibrant bar scenes, nightclubs, and live music venues that attract young and leisure-seeking visitors. Bucharest offers trendy clubs in the Old Town and large music festivals. Cluj-Napoca is a university city with a lively atmosphere and popular events year-round. Their dynamic nightlife scenes make these cities the top choices for entertainment in Romania.
What are the best coastal cities to visit in Romania?
The best coastal cities to visit in Romania are Constanta and Mamaia. These cities stand out because they combine rich history and vibrant beach resort experiences, attracting a wide range of visitors. Constanta is Romania's largest port city and a cultural hub with museums, Roman ruins, and a historic old town. Mamaia is a well-known resort town famous for its sandy beaches, lively nightlife, and popular summer festivals.
Both destinations provide visitors with diverse seaside activities and cultural landmarks. Their unique blend of relaxation and heritage makes them the top coastal cities to explore in Romania.
Which cities in Romania are best for food and dining?
Cluj-Napoca, Bucharest, and Sibiu are the best cities in Romania for food and dining. These cities stand out because they offer a rich blend of traditional Romanian dishes alongside international cuisine in diverse settings.
In Cluj-Napoca, you can enjoy hearty Transylvanian specialties like ciorba de burta (tripe soup) and locally sourced farm-to-table fare. Bucharest offers a variety of options from street food such as mici (grilled sausages) to upscale restaurants serving sarmale (cabbage rolls) and mamaliga (cornmeal porridge). Sibiu is known for its rustic dishes like pastrav afumat (smoked trout) and papricaș de pui (chicken paprikash), served in charming historic venues. These culinary experiences make these cities must-visit destinations for food lovers seeking authentic Romanian flavors.
What is the safest city to visit in Romania?
Cluj-Napoca is considered the safest city in Romania. This is supported by crime statistics and traveler reviews that consistently highlight its low crime rates and welcoming atmosphere. The city is well-maintained, has efficient public services, and a friendly local population. Safety-conscious travelers frequently choose Cluj-Napoca for its secure environment. Its reputation as a safe destination is well-founded.
Which cities in Romania are most affordable to visit?
Brasov, Iasi, and Timisoara are among the most affordable cities to visit in Romania. These cities offer low-cost accommodations, dining, and attractions compared to larger metropolitan areas.
Brasov's affordable guesthouses and local markets provide value for budget travelers. Iasi, known as a university town, offers economical cultural activities. Timisoara has low transportation and dining costs. Their combination of affordability and rich experiences makes them ideal for budget-conscious tourists.
What is the best time to visit the cities in Romania?
The best time to visit the cities in Romania is from late spring to early autumn, especially May through September. This period offers warm, pleasant weather ideal for traveling in Romania and enjoying its vibrant urban life.
Summer hosts major cultural events like the Sibiu International Theatre Festival and Brașov's Golden Stag music festival. Bucharest features the George Enescu Classical Music Festival and lively street fairs during these months. Spring and early autumn provide mild temperatures and fewer crowds, perfect for hiking in the Carpathians or exploring medieval towns. For more tips on timing your trip, see our detailed guide on the best time to visit Romania.
Which cities are best for a romantic getaway in Romania?
The best cities for a romantic getaway in Romania are Brasov, Sibiu, and Sighisoara. These cities are popular because they offer historic charm combined with intimate atmospheres ideal for couples.
Brasov features stunning Carpathian mountain views, cobblestone streets, and charming cafes around its central square. Sibiu is known for its elegant baroque architecture and peaceful squares, perfect for romantic walks and dining experiences. Sighisoara, a UNESCO World Heritage site, impresses with its colorful medieval buildings and scenic hilltop views that create a fairy-tale setting. Their combination of beauty, history, and tranquility makes these cities top choices for romantic travel in Romania.
How many days should I spend in each city in Romania?
Spending two to three days in each major Romanian city is ideal for a balanced visit. This timeframe allows travelers to explore key attractions without feeling rushed. For example, a 3-day city break in Bucharest provides enough time to visit its museums, landmarks, and vibrant neighborhoods. Brasov and Sibiu can each be enjoyed in two days, with time for their historic centers and nearby nature.
This approach fits well within a well-paced 10-day itinerary in Romania, offering a rewarding mix of culture, history, and scenery. Following this plan ensures a thorough yet comfortable experience across Romania's top cities.
Are there hidden gem cities in Romania worth visiting?
Yes, hidden gem cities like Timisoara, Alba Iulia, and Oradea are definitely worth visiting in Romania. These cities stand out because they combine rich history, distinctive architecture, and a more authentic experience with fewer crowds than major tourist hubs.
Timisoara, soon to be a European Capital of Culture, captivates with its vibrant squares, baroque palaces, and buzzing arts scene. Alba Iulia draws visitors with its impressive Vauban-style citadel, a key site in Romanian history and independence. Oradea impresses with its stunning Art Nouveau buildings and relaxing thermal spas. Visiting these hidden gems offers travelers a deeper connection to Romania's diverse culture and heritage.
How do I travel between cities in Romania?
Traveling between cities in Romania is convenient by train, bus, car, or domestic flights. The country has an extensive train network connecting major cities like Bucharest, Brasov, and Cluj-Napoca. Buses serve smaller towns and regional routes, making public transport accessible. Many travelers choose to rent a car in Romania to gain flexibility and explore remote areas and hidden gems at their own pace. Some routes also offer domestic flights, which save time on longer distances. With multiple transport options available, city-to-city travel throughout Romania is easy and adaptable to different preferences.
Which cities in Romania are best for families with kids?
The best cities in Romania for families with kids are Bucharest, Brasov, and Constanta. These cities are ideal because they offer a wide range of activities designed to entertain and educate children of all ages.
In Bucharest, families can explore the Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum, where kids can learn about traditional Romanian life, and visit the Bucharest Zoo. Brasov combines outdoor adventure with history, offering family-friendly hiking trails in the Carpathians and visits to the impressive Bran Castle. Constanta provides a coastal escape with sandy beaches perfect for children and the interactive Aquarium and Dolphinarium. Together, these cities provide diverse attractions that ensure a fun, safe, and enriching experience for families traveling with kids in Romania.
Popular types of travel packages in Romania
travel packages starting in all the top destinations in Romania
Top-rated travel packages in Romania
travel packages in all the top destinations in Europe
travel packages in all countries in Europe
Install Europe’s biggest travel app
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.