Travel Guide Romania – Castles, Mountains and Mysteries

Romania is unique in that it blends rich cultural traditions with a long history and stunning natural beauty. The magnificent Carpathian Mountains, the expansive and biodiverse Danube Delta and its numerous mediaeval towns are considered among the best-preserved in Europe. Due to its location and complicated history, Romania has an intriguing fusion of Eastern and Western cultural influences. It has close cultural ties to nations like Italy, France and Spain because it is the only nation in Eastern Europe to speak a Romance language, which is derived from Latin. Its folklore, traditional music, colorful costumes and festivals reflect centuries of rural life and deep-rooted customs.

The myths and legends of Romania are also well-known globally, particularly Dracula - which was based on the real Vlad the Impaler. Many visitors are drawn to its dramatic castles, particularly Bran Castle, because of this connection. Furthermore, Romania has made important contributions in the fields of science, the arts and sports, with its friendly people making it a destination that tourists will never forget. This travel guide to Romania has been compiled to help you maximise your stay and to enjoy everything the country has to offer.

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Look over the Romania travel guide topics listed below and take a look at each page for information on a specific aspect of traveling in Romania.

• Romania Car Hire Guide - Everything you need to know about renting a car from us in Romania.
• Romania Driving Information - A useful list of driving tips for Romania, including the country’s road rules and regulations.
• Romania Fleet Guide Options - Explore all the car hire options available to you for renting in Romania.

Road trips with my car hire in Romania

For tourists who enjoy a variety of landscapes, historical landmarks and genuine cultural experiences - taking a road trip in Romania is a great way to experience these things without the crowds and costs of Western Europe. Romania is a fantastic destination for road trips for the following reasons:

• Transylvania Castle Tour: Consider an enchanted road trip to view some of Romania's most famous medieval places. A country rich in legends and myths, opt for the Transylvania Castle Tour and uncover mystery round every corner. Starting in the charming city of Brașov, you’ll enjoy Bran Castle, famously linked to the Dracula myth. This castle is perched dramatically on a hilltop, whilst nearby, the ancient Râșnov Fortress offers stunning panoramic views and a glimpse into the region’s defensive past. The tour culminates in the beautifully preserved medieval town of Sighișoara, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler - considered the inspiration behind Dracula. This road trip successfully blends mystery, stunning architecture and rich Transylvania culture.


• Maramureș Route: Driving the Maramureș Route is a picturesque way to experience one of Romania's most genuine and culturally diverse areas. Maramureș is well-known for its colourful folklore traditions, wooden churches,and charming rural scenery. Along the way, you’ll encounter elaborate wooden carvings, have the opportunity to stroll through quaint villages, and even take part in regional celebrations depending on the time of year.


• Carpathian Loop: The Carpathian Loop is a breathtaking road trip that winds through the majestic Carpathian Mountains, crossing parts of Romania, Ukraine, Poland, and Slovakia. It consists mainly of beautiful thick forests, rocky peaks and quaint mountain villages to explore. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, wildlife watching, cycling and exploring historic castles and landmarks. The Carpathian Loop is perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers looking to experience the rich biodiversity of Eastern Europe.


• Bucovina Painted Monasteries: In northern Romania, this Bucovina Painted Monasteries road trip offers a cultural and spiritual experience. The route goes through a number of monasteries that are UNESCO-listed and well-known for their colourful exterior facades. Nestled in beautiful rural landscapes, these monasteries offer a blend of art and history together with a peaceful atmosphere. A drive through this region will allow visitors to explore centuries-old religious structures with charming Bucovina villages.

What to do in Romania

Romania is a fascinating country with a variety of landscapes, including tall mountains and beautiful rural settings. It is well-known for myths and legends - containing some of the greatest mysterious trails. Its cities are rich with historical landmarks, alongside art galleries and museums. Continue reading for a selection of activities that you shouldn’t miss during your time in Romania.

• Bran Castle: Bran Castle, also known as “Dracula’s Castle,” is a historic fortress located in Transylvania, Romania. Perched on a cliff overlooking a dramatic rural setting, it is famous for its association with the Dracula legend - inspired by Bram Stoker’s novel. Built in the 14th Century, Bran Castle served as a strategic defense point and royal residence. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction, showcasing medieval architecture, museum exhibits and stunning views of the surrounding mountains.


• Maramureș: Maramureș is a charming area renowned for its stunning natural scenery, traditional wooden architecture and rich cultural legacy. It is well-known for maintaining traditional practices and folklore art, as well as for its handcrafted wooden churches, some of which are UNESCO World Heritage sites. The region’s rolling hills, dense forests and vibrant villages offer a glimpse into a rural way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. Maramureș is a place where history and tradition blend seamlessly with nature.


• Danube Delta: Known for its abundant biodiversity and serene natural beauty, the Danube Delta is a huge and lovely wetland where the Danube River meets the Black Sea. One of the biggest and best-preserved deltas in Europe, it is home to hundreds of different kinds of fish, birds and unusual plants. Visitors come to explore its winding waterways by boat, to enjoy birdwatching and to experience a tranquil escape from the cities.


• Peleș Castle: Peleș Castle - located near Sinaia, is a stunning Neo-Renaissance palace known for its ornate architecture and lavish interiors. Constructed as a summer home for the Romanian royal family, it boasts exquisite stained-glass windows, stunning woodwork and many remarkable art collections. Surrounded by picturesque forests, Peleș Castle is a must-see for anyone interested in history, royalty and fairy-tale castles.


• Sibiu: Located in central Transylvania, Sibiu is a charming Medieval city renowned for its cobblestone streets and colourful buildings. It features a fusion of Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance architecture and was once a significant Saxon settlement. With its lively squares, historic churches and rich cultural life - Sibiu is one of Romania’s most charming and welcoming destinations.

Frequently Asked Questions about travelling in Romania

In order to address some of the most common queries from visitors to Romania, we have compiled this list. It contains useful information on everything from currency and time zones to power outlets and visa requirements. This section is designed to give you a clear overview of what to expect, along with practical travel tips. If you don’t find the answer you’re looking for, feel free to reach out and our knowledgeable agents will assist.

Useful Links

Romania Fleet Information

Romania Airport Information

Romania Travel Information

Tourist Office of Romania