ROMANIA
Top 12 Tips For Travel To Romania
THE ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE
Top 12 Tips For Travel To Romania
Romania enchants with legendary castles, medieval towns, Carpathian hikes, the unique Danube Delta, hearty cuisine, and affordable vibes—from Bucharest's energy to Transylvania's folklore and painted monasteries. These top 12 practical tips (updated for 2026) help first-timers and returning visitors avoid common pitfalls, save money, and maximize enjoyment. From cards to trains, etiquette to ETIAS, here's what you need to know for a fantastic trip.
Top 12 Essential Travel Tips for Romania
1. Use Cards Everywhere (Mandatory Acceptance)
Since January 2026, all businesses in Romania must accept electronic payments (cards, contactless, mobile)—the leu (RON) remains the currency, but euros are sometimes accepted in tourist spots (change in RON).
ATMs: Abundant at banks like Banca Transilvania or BCR; withdraw larger amounts to cut fees. Contactless/Apple Pay common in cities.
Always carry some cash (RON 200–500) for rural areas, markets, or small vendors.
2. Prepare for ETIAS (Late 2026 Onward)
Visa-exempt travelers (US, Canada, UK, Australia, etc.) need ETIAS authorization starting late 2026—apply online in advance (approx. €7–20 fee, valid 3 years).
Romania aligns with Schengen rules (though not fully joined yet); passport valid 3+ months beyond stay. Carry proof of funds/accommodation/return ticket.
Check official EU/Romanian MFA sites closer to travel for launch date.
3. Book Trains and Buses in Advance
CFR Călători trains are scenic/affordable but often slow—book via cfrcalatori.ro app for intercity (Bucharest–Brașov €10–30). Buses (FlixBus, maxitaxis via autogari.ro) faster for some routes.
Use Bolt/Uber in cities—cheap and reliable. Rent cars for rural/Transfăgărășan drives (Rovinieta vignette required for highways).
Drive defensively—roads vary, mountain passes close in winter.
4. Prefer Bottled Water and Stay Hydrated
Tap water is generally safe in major cities (Bucharest, Cluj, Brașov) but taste/old pipes vary—many locals/visitors prefer cheap bottled mineral water (apă minerală).
Refill at accommodations; ask for tap in restaurants if comfortable. Bottled is abundant/inexpensive.
Carry a reusable bottle for hikes in Carpathians or Danube Delta.
5. Learn Basic Romanian Phrases
English widely spoken in tourist areas/Bucharest, but basics like "Bună" (hello), "Mulțumesc" (thank you), "Vă rog" (please), "Cât costă?" (how much?) earn goodwill.
Romanians are warm/direct—greet with "Bună ziua" politely. Use Google Translate offline for rural spots.
Respect monasteries/churches with modest clothing/covered shoulders.
6. Pack Layers and Sturdy Shoes
Weather varies—pack layers, waterproof jacket/umbrella, sunscreen. Summers hot/humid (Danube Delta mosquitoes), winters cold/snowy in mountains.
Cobblestones/hikes demand comfortable, sturdy shoes—no heels for sightseeing/castles!
Pack light—self-service on trains/buses.
7. Stay Aware of Petty Crime in Crowds
Romania is safe (Level 1/normal precautions)—violent crime rare against tourists. Watch for pickpocketing/bag-snatching in Bucharest crowds, train stations, tourist spots.
Use anti-theft bags, avoid flashing valuables. Scams (fake taxis/police) possible—use Bolt/Uber.
Low terrorism risk; stay vigilant in busy areas.
8. Embrace Hearty Romanian Cuisine
Try sarmale (cabbage rolls), mici (grilled sausages), mamaliga (polenta), and țuică (plum brandy). Eat at local spots/markets for authenticity—affordable and delicious.
Tipping: Round up or add 5–10% for good service (cash preferred). Vegetarian options available but meat-heavy cuisine.
Outdoor terraces lively in summer.
9. Use Rideshares and Apps in Cities
Bolt/Uber cheap/reliable in Bucharest, Cluj, Brașov—avoid unofficial taxis (overcharges possible). Public transport (metro/buses) affordable but validate tickets.
Download Bolt, Google Maps offline, Google Translate. eSIM/local SIM easy at airport (€5–15).
Excellent 4G/5G coverage nationwide.
10. Plan Around Seasons and Holidays
Shoulder seasons (May–June/Sep–Oct) best—mild weather, fewer crowds. Summer peak for Delta/beaches; winter for skiing/Christmas markets.
Orthodox Easter/Christmas vibrant in villages—many shops close Sundays/holidays (stock up Saturday).
Festivals (Untold, Electric Castle) book early.
11. Get Travel Insurance and Health Prep
Comprehensive insurance essential (medical/theft/delays). EU citizens use EHIC; others need coverage. Pharmacies ("farmacie") good; update vaccines (routine + consider tick-borne for hikes).
Emergency: 112. Mosquito repellent for Delta; sturdy shoes for trails (Lyme risk low but possible).
Tap water safe in cities; bottled elsewhere.
12. Explore Beyond Bucharest – Rent a Car or Tour
Bucharest great start, but don't miss Transylvania (Brașov, Bran/Peleș castles, Sighișoara), painted monasteries, Danube Delta, Carpathian hikes.
Rent car for flexibility (Transfăgărășan road epic); join guided tours for remote areas. Affordable and uncrowded.
Road-trip paradise with scenic drives.
Disclaimer: Travel conditions, prices, and rules can change. Always verify with official sources (Romanian MFA, CFR, EU travel sites, your embassy) before your trip. This guide is for general reference only and based on information as of March 2026.