We’ve all heard of the more popular countries in Europe: Italy, France, and Spain, as well as the United Kingdom, but did you know there’s a country that has everything these other countries do — and more? That country is Romania, and it’s so much more than the stereotypical Dracula stories we’ve been hearing about since elementary school. If you’re looking to escape the colder weather this winter and see somewhere new this year, consider visiting Romania for one of the most beautiful road trips you’ll ever take.
Reasons why you should visit
You're in for an incredible experience that may change your view of the world forever. To start with, you'll want to make sure you visit Transylvania. Have you heard of Bram Stoker's Dracula? Transylvania is the most beautiful part of the country and well worth a visit! The weather is mild, so enjoy hiking in full gear to take in some incredible views and taste traditional Romanian food along the way.
How to get there
The easiest way to get to Romania is to fly into Bucharest. From there, there are many regional airports such as Constanta and Cluj-Napoca. It is also possible to take a ferry from Greece or Italy and a train from Hungary, Croatia, Bulgaria, or Serbia.
What you'll see
The list of places to see is endless. From the famous Bran Castle - which was allegedly built by Vlad the Impaler, to Covasna in the east, and Călimani in the north – you'll never run out of sights to take in. Romania is an easy country to explore by car or bus, and you'll see so much more than a new city's strip mall or even bustling downtown area. Explore small villages and towns with barely any cars on the road, interact with locals (especially children), go for hikes and enjoy nature...Plus from Eastern Europe it's much cheaper to travel around!
Where to stay
There are many hotel chains and hostels in Romania, however the level of quality does vary. The Sheraton Bucharest, for example, is one of the more upscale options and would be a perfect spot to stay during your visit. Visitors will enjoy features like an indoor pool, full-service spa, fitness center and modern décor.
Alternatively visitors may want to consider staying at one of the many hotels in Mamaia on the Black Sea Coast or in Mamaia pe Insula Bratislava off the Danube River. Either would provide spectacular views!
Where to eat
Romania's cuisine is a reflection of the country's rich history. When it comes to deciding where to eat, the possibilities are endless. Ethnic Romanians will point you in the direction of a classic cabbage soup (known as ciorba) and mamaliga (a cornmeal porridge), while others might take you to sample their grandmother's stewing pot, crammed with ingredients from every corner of their ethnic background.
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Meanwhile, Romanian specialties range from pljeskavica, a traditional Bosnian dish that resembles shish kebab, to baclavas de casa, a Romanian cookie served at weddings and funerals alike. Here are 10 restaurants and eateries in Bucharest that offer local favorites and international options alike.
How to get around
Romania is a country the size of the state of Maryland, wedged between Bulgaria, Hungary, Serbia and Ukraine. And while it might not be on your list of must-see destinations, you may find yourself in this gorgeous corner of Europe after taking a ferry across the Black Sea from Bulgaria or a plane to Timisoara.
It's easy to get around with buses and trains that go to all major towns as well as flights to more remote destinations like Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca. The best way to get around though is by car or motorcycle -- preferably both!
It is the best ever place to visit.