Romania, a country steeped in history and natural beauty, offers travelers a rich tapestry of experiences that range from medieval castles to breathtaking landscapes. Nestled in Eastern Europe, Romania is home to vibrant cities, charming villages, and stunning natural parks that beckon adventurers and history enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re wandering through the cobbled streets of Transylvania or exploring the majestic Carpathian Mountains, each destination reveals its unique story, making it an ideal place for exploration. This guide presents the top 50 things to do in Romania, categorized by city, to inspire your travel itinerary.
Bucharest
Top Things to do In Bucharest, Romania
- Explore the Palace of Parliament
The Palace of Parliament is the world’s second-largest administrative building and a symbol of Romania’s communist past. Guided tours reveal its opulent interiors and fascinating history. - Visit the Romanian Athenaeum
This stunning concert hall is renowned for its beautiful architecture and hosts classical music performances. Attending a concert here is a must for music lovers. - Stroll through the Old Town (Lipscani)
The historic heart of Bucharest features charming streets lined with cafes, shops, and vibrant nightlife. It’s perfect for leisurely exploration. - Discover the National Museum of Art
Housed in the former Royal Palace, this museum showcases Romanian and European art, including works by famous artists like Rembrandt and El Greco. - Relax at Herăstrău Park
This expansive park around Lake Herăstrău offers walking trails, boat rentals, and beautiful gardens—ideal for a peaceful escape from the city bustle. - Experience the Village Museum
An open-air museum that exhibits traditional Romanian village life through authentic houses and artifacts from various regions. - Marvel at Stavropoleos Monastery
A hidden gem in the Old Town, this monastery is known for its intricate architecture and serene atmosphere. - Visit the Cişmigiu Gardens
Bucharest’s oldest park features picturesque paths, a lake for boating, and beautiful flowerbeds—perfect for a relaxing afternoon. - Tour the National Museum of Romanian History
This museum offers insights into Romania’s past with exhibits ranging from prehistoric artifacts to modern history. - Enjoy nightlife in the Old Town
The vibrant nightlife scene includes bars, clubs, and live music venues that cater to all tastes.
Brașov
Top Things to do In Brașov, Romania
- Hike up Mount Tâmpa
Offering panoramic views of Brașov, this hike is accessible via trails or a cable car ride, making it a favorite among nature lovers. - Explore Bran Castle (Dracula’s Castle)
This iconic castle is steeped in legend and offers guided tours showcasing its impressive architecture and connection to Vlad the Impaler. - Wander around Piața Sfatului
The central square is surrounded by colorful buildings and cafes, perfect for soaking up the local atmosphere. - Visit Black Church
A stunning Gothic church known for its impressive organ and beautiful stained glass windows, it’s an architectural marvel worth exploring. - Discover Rasnov Fortress
Just outside Brașov, this medieval fortress offers stunning views and a glimpse into Romania’s fortified past. - Take a ride on the Brașov Cable Car
Enjoy breathtaking views as you ascend to the top of Tampa Mountain for hiking or simply enjoying nature. - Explore Poiana Brașov
A popular ski resort in winter and hiking destination in summer, offering numerous trails amidst beautiful scenery. - Visit the First Romanian School Museum
Located in nearby Șchei district, this museum highlights Romania’s educational history with artifacts from its early days. - Stroll through Strada Republicii
This lively street is lined with shops and restaurants, making it perfect for shopping or dining after sightseeing. - Enjoy local cuisine at a traditional restaurant
Savor Romanian dishes such as sarmale (cabbage rolls) or mămăligă (polenta) at one of Brașov’s charming eateries.
Sibiu
Top Things to do In Sibiu, Romania
- Explore Brukenthal Palace
Home to one of Romania’s oldest museums, it features an impressive collection of European art housed in a beautiful baroque setting. - Wander through the Great Square (Piața Mare)
Surrounded by colorful buildings and cafes, this vibrant square is perfect for people-watching and enjoying local culture. - Visit the Bridge of Lies
An iconic landmark with an intriguing legend attached to it; it’s a great spot for photos and local folklore stories. - Climb the Council Tower
For panoramic views of Sibiu’s rooftops and surrounding mountains, climb this historic tower located near the Great Square. - Discover Astra National Museum Complex
An open-air museum showcasing traditional Romanian rural life through authentic houses and crafts from various regions. - Stroll along Nicolae Balcescu Street
This bustling street features shops, cafes, and historical buildings—ideal for an afternoon walk. - Visit Sibiu’s Evangelical Cathedral
Known for its stunning architecture and impressive tower views; it’s an important religious site in Sibiu’s history. - Attend the Sibiu International Theatre Festival
If visiting in June, don’t miss this renowned festival showcasing performances from around the world in various genres. - Explore Sub Arini Park
A lovely park perfect for picnics or leisurely walks amidst nature away from city noise. - Taste local wines at nearby vineyards
The region around Sibiu is known for its vineyards; consider taking a wine tour to sample local varieties.
Cluj-Napoca
Top Things to do In Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Visit St. Michael’s Church
A Gothic masterpiece located in Unirii Square; climb its tower for fantastic city views. - Explore Central Park Simion Bărnuțiu
A beautiful green space ideal for relaxation or recreational activities like cycling or jogging. - Discover the National Museum of Transylvanian History
This museum offers insights into Transylvania’s rich history through diverse exhibits from prehistoric times to modernity. - Wander through Cluj Botanical Garden
Featuring diverse plant species from around the world; it’s a serene place for nature lovers to explore. - Experience nightlife on Piata Unirii
Cluj boasts vibrant nightlife with numerous bars and clubs centered around this lively square. - Attend Untold Festival (if visiting in August)
One of Europe’s largest electronic music festivals attracts international artists and thousands of fans each year. - Visit Hoia Forest
Known as one of Europe’s most haunted forests; it’s perfect for hiking enthusiasts looking for adventure mixed with mystery. - Explore Cetățuia Park
Offering panoramic views over Cluj-Napoca; it’s an excellent spot for picnics or sunset watching after a day of exploring. - Check out Cluj Arena events
Home to various sports events and concerts; check their schedule during your visit for exciting happenings. - Taste traditional Transylvanian dishes at local eateries
Don’t miss out on trying local delicacies like cozonac (sweet bread) or varză à la Cluj (cabbage dish).
Other Notable Locations
- Visit Peles Castle in Sinaia
Nestled in the Carpathian Mountains, this Neo-Renaissance castle is renowned for its stunning architecture and lush gardens—perfect for photography enthusiasts. - Explore Corvin Castle in Hunedoara
One of Romania’s largest castles with Gothic-Renaissance architecture; it’s steeped in legends about Vlad the Impaler’s imprisonment here. - Discover Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve
A UNESCO World Heritage site known for its biodiversity; take boat tours to explore its unique ecosystems filled with wildlife. - Hike in Retezat National Park
Famous for its glacial lakes and rugged peaks; it’s ideal for hiking enthusiasts seeking breathtaking mountain scenery. - Relax at Mamaia Beach on the Black Sea Coast
Known as Romania’s premier beach resort area; enjoy sunbathing or water sports along its sandy shores during summer months. - Visit Sighișoara Citadel
A UNESCO World Heritage site known as Dracula’s birthplace; wander through its medieval streets filled with history and charm. - Tour Alba Iulia Fortress
An impressive star-shaped fortress rich in history; explore its museums and enjoy scenic walks along its walls. - Experience Transfagarasan Highway Drive
Often dubbed one of the most scenic drives in Europe; enjoy breathtaking mountain views along this winding road through the Carpathians. - Explore Maramureș Wooden Churches
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring unique wooden churches with intricate designs reflecting local craftsmanship traditions—an architectural marvel worth visiting! - Taste local delicacies at food festivals across regions throughout summer months!
Experience Romania’s culinary diversity by attending food festivals featuring traditional dishes like mici (grilled sausages) or palinca (fruit brandy).
Romania is truly a treasure trove waiting to be explored by travelers seeking adventure, culture, or relaxation amidst stunning landscapes!
Thank you for reading this travel guide “Top 50 Things To Do In Romania” ! Happy Travels.