Romania 5 Day Itinerary

Romania: 5-Day Itinerary

This itinerary focuses on Transylvania, the heartland of Romanian folklore and history.

Things to Know:

  • Currency: Romanian Leu (RON)
  • Language: Romanian (English spoken in tourist areas)
  • Visa Requirements: Check visa requirements based on your nationality https://www.mae.ro/en/consular-information. EU citizens can travel freely.
  • Transportation: Trains and buses are affordable options for intercity travel. Consider renting a car for more flexibility exploring Transylvania.

Day 1: Bucharest Arrival & Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive at Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP) in Bucharest. Take an airport bus or taxi to your accommodation.
  • Afternoon: Explore the Old Town, with its charming cobblestone streets, vibrant cafes, and historical buildings. Visit Stavropoleos Monastery and the Romanian Athenaeum.
  • Evening: Enjoy a traditional Romanian dinner at Caru’ cu Bere, a renowned restaurant with live music.

Day 2: Transylvania Bound - Brașov & Bran Castle

  • Morning: Take a train or bus from Bucharest to Brașov (approx. 3 hours).
  • Afternoon: Explore Brașov’s medieval old town, climb the Black Church tower for panoramic views, and visit the Council Square.
  • Late Afternoon/Evening: Travel to Bran Castle (Dracula’s Castle) and soak in its eerie atmosphere. Spend the night in a charming guesthouse in the area.

Day 3: Sighisoara – Medieval Charm

  • Morning: Take a bus or car from Bran to Sighisoara (approx. 2 hours).
  • Afternoon: Stroll through Sighisoara’s well-preserved medieval citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Climb the Clock Tower for stunning views and visit the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler (inspiration for Dracula).
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner in one of Sighisoara’s cozy restaurants with traditional Romanian cuisine.

Day 4: Nature & Fortified Churches – Biertan & Viscri

  • Morning: Rent a car or hire a driver to explore the Saxon villages in the region. Visit Biertan, known for its fortified church and impressive architecture.
  • Afternoon: Continue to Viscri, another charming village with a fortified church and traditional rural setting.
  • Evening: Stay overnight in a guesthouse in Viscri or return to Brașov for more accommodation options.

Day 5: Departure

  • Morning: Enjoy breakfast in your guesthouse and soak in the Transylvanian countryside one last time.
  • Afternoon: Travel back to Bucharest by train or bus (approx. 3 hours).
  • Evening: Depart from Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP).

Optional Activities:

  • Visit Corvinestilor Castle near Hunedoara, a stunning Gothic-Renaissance castle.
  • Explore the Turda Salt Mine, a unique underground museum and amusement park.
  • Hike in the Carpathian Mountains for breathtaking views and nature trails.

Tips:

  • Learn some basic Romanian phrases – locals will appreciate the effort.
  • Carry cash, as smaller establishments may not accept credit cards.
  • Be prepared for varying weather conditions, especially in the mountains.
  • Embrace the local culture and try traditional dishes like Sarmale (cabbage rolls) and Mici (grilled minced meat rolls).