As Romania is a lesser known travel destination, no wonder people aren’t sure why they should visit! But besides the usual tourist attractions and things to do, there are some unexpected reasons I’d like to share with you on why planning your holiday in Romania is a great idea.
Each country has its reputation, a major “why” or unique reasons to visit. France is known for its wines, Thailand for its islands, Egypt for its Pyramids. And while Romania is best known thanks to Dracula legends and Hollywood fame -– but that’s NOT what I want to tell you about.
I’m also NOT going to tell you about the famous world heritage sites such as the Painted Churches of Bucovina, Sighisoara Citadel or the Danube Delta natural reserve. Nothing about the beautiful sceneries and natural attractions in the Carpathian Mountains. Or about the popular castles (such as Cantacuzino castle in Bușteni or Corvin Castle in Hunedoara and other usual tourist sights.
I’m going to share the five reasons I personally tell anyone who hasn’t visited Romania why they should.
So let’s dive in, shall we?
1. Unlearn misconceptions about Romania
From touristy Dracula myths to a violent overthrow the communist regime in 1989 and a massive migration that followed in the late 90s and early 2000s, people from other countries, particularly in Europe, have many misconceptions about Romania. And, like with all misconception, while there may be a grain of truth in them, most are distorted or used to make negative and unfounded generalizations about a country larger than Italy in size and with a population of 19 million. Which isn’t fair…
As highlighted in his book World Travel: An Irreverent Guide beloved travel writer and television host Anthony Bourdain did his best to see more of the world and tell deeper stories about it — a mindset we should take with us as we visit lesser known destinations, including Romania. In hidden pockets across the globe, Bourdain sought to bring out the entertaining, practical and fun in every travel experience, a practice that often means unlearning our prejudices about certain places and people while being open to the hidden gems they may offer.
And isn’t that the main reason why we travel to new places in the world? To open our minds, delight our senses, discover “new” and create meaningful memories.
One of the things I hear most often from people who visit our country and our clients – that you can read in their reviews – is how they didn’t expect to have such a wonderful time, to discover such friendly people and be surprised by the sights, culture, vibrant cities and delicious food Romania has.
If you go to France, you kind of expect the wines, the ‘rough’ service and the history. But if this is your first time visiting Romania then please come with an open mind, despite what people say, and you’ll be surprised.
So which holiday do you think you’ll enjoy more?
2. Experience rural, pre-industrial life in Transylvania
National Geographic describes Transylvania as having that "old-Europe feel", known for wildflower meadows, gothic castles and old manors straight out of storybooks. If you ever feel like you need a break from the hustle and bustle of city life or the digital world of work, come spend a couple of days in a Transylvanian village.
There are many reasons why this is one of the top things to do in Romania. You can stay in a village house turned guesthouse, owned by a local family who grows its own food or gets it from the area – which means it’s going to be delicious! Besides seeing picturesque sights you’ll also hear and see cows, sheep, pigs, dogs, chicken and goose. You’ll wake up when it’s light and go to sleep when it’s dark. There’s no TV or wi-fi here (sometimes on purpose!).
You’ll go for walks in the village or over the hills or travel in a horse-drawn cart. You can see farm life firsthand and try your luck at milking cows, collecting eggs or feeding animals. You’ll have an immersive agro-tourism experience like no other and a chance to unplug and enjoy life at a slow pace. Because nature is so quiet our mind can quiet too and slow down. This is when you’ll completely relax, forget about your worries, come to your present and feel like you’re having a wonderful, peaceful holiday. The only problem? It goes by too quick!
These kind of experiences are custom-made and we know the right locals and guesthouses for this. So if you want to experience Transylvania like this please contact us – otherwise you can get a glimpse of this life on our day trips.
3. See wildlife roam free
For the wildlife lovers and outdoor enthusiasts amongst you, Romania has something few countries in Europe still do: a significant population of wild animals roaming free in the Carpathian mountains and the Danube Delta.
While Romania is renowned for its rugged wilderness and pristine natural landscapes, you don't always have to go deep into the backcountry to experience the country's rich wildlife. In fact, the charming city of Brasov, nestled in the heart of the Carpathian Mountains, is a great place to start. Even within the city limits, you're likely to encounter a variety of wildlife species, including foxes, deer, and even bears. And if you're willing to venture just a little outside the city, you'll find a wealth of national parks, nature reserves, and other protected areas where you can observe some of Romania's most iconic wildlife in their natural habitats.
On a typical hiking trip in popular ranges such as Piatra Craiului, Fagaras or Apuseni you may find animal tracks and even see deer, chamois or brown bears (which is why going with a guide is important so you can be protected!). But if you’re really into wildlife and want a different, unique experience then we have wildlife guides who can take you deep in the mountains to observation points where you may see animals roaming free. These trips require a very good physical condition as you won’t go on tourist trails.
Another great destination for animal enthusiasts who want a change from seeing them in captivity is the Danube Delta - a UNESCO biosphere reserve home to over 300 species of birds and small-medium wildlife. Tourists can also find wild horses in Letea Forest — also known as the oldest natural reservation in Romania. And anyone with a good phone or a camera will be thrilled to go home with some amazing photos!
4. Discover the taste of homegrown foods
Food is a window into a country’s culture and history. And for tourists, an intriguing and ‘must experience’ part of travel is cuisine. Romanian food is described in an interview by author of cookbook Irina Georgescu as "small plates of fantastic food that make people want more, that keep the conversation going and the wine flowing."
When you’ll visit you’ll see why – Romanians love going out, eating together and having a good time. Take the time to explore local cuisine and discover how Romanian culture is closely connected to our agrarian past. Go beyond typical restaurants rated on TripAdvisor and also try street food or maybe even a food tour.
If you go in the countryside and especially if you explore Transylvania, Maramures or Bucovina, you’ll definitely get a taste of local dishes that feature homegrown vegetables, fruits, and animal products. They provide an "organic" breath of fresh air, free from fertilisers or chemicals. My advice – eat them raw and slow. You’ll be surprised to rediscover what a tomato tastes like!
Our tourists visiting a family for a home-cooked lunch
5. Romanians are so friendly you won’t believe it!
Visiting tourist attractions, exploring nature, learning about Romanian history and culture – all fun and great. But you know the best part?
The people. Romanians are very friendly, helpful and kind, especially in smaller cities and in the countryside where the stress of daily life is much lower than in Bucharest for example, and people are generally happier. That’s what living a slow life does to you!
Romanians love making sure guests have a good time because that makes us feel good too. Sometimes this goes beyond the usual, polite hospitality you’d expect to find in services and tourism and for some this can be a little too much, or might even seem fake. But if you’ll travel through our country you’ll meet lots of people, from waiters to baristas, from guides to people on the street, being just as friendly and kind.
This goes back to the first reason I shared with you why you should come visit Romania – to drop misconceptions and prejudices and travel with an open mind and heart.
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There are many other reasons why you should visit Romania but I’ll let you discover those on your own. These five are my favorite ones because they’re meaningful and I know for sure will make your holiday truly memorable.
So I hope you will consider them and start making plans to visit our country. On our website you’ll find more info to help with that well as a collection of amazing tours all over Romania.
And since we're your Romanian Friend - send us a message if you have questions about visiting!
See you soon :)
Marius
