Discover what to see in Romania, from the charm of Brașov to Bucharest’s Old Town. Explore cultural gems and natural wonders.
A Country of Contrasts: Planning What to See in Romania
Romania isn’t just one thing. It’s medieval castles, wide-open plains, painted monasteries, and post-communist cities shifting into the future. Planning what to see in Romania means choosing between layers of history and geography that often overlap.
You might be drawn to the countryside, where horse-drawn carts still pass through hayfields. Or you may prefer urban energy—cafes in Cluj, bookstores in Bucharest. Either way, this guide will help you make sense of what to see in Romania, whether you have a few days or a few weeks.
Start in the Capital: What to See in Romania Begins with Bucharest
If you’re flying in, you’ll likely start in Bucharest, the Romania capital. While often skipped over for Transylvanian towns, Bucharest has layers worth discovering—especially in its historic core.
What to See in Bucharest Old Town
Bucharest’s Old Town (Centrul Vechi) is compact but packed with atmosphere. Lipscani Street still hints at merchant life, with narrow alleys now lined with cafes and antique shops. Stavropoleos Monastery offers a quiet pause—its carved stone facade and wood-beam cloister are small but unforgettable.
Nearby, you’ll find the National Bank Palace and remains of Curtea Veche, the former princely court where Vlad Țepeș once ruled. If you want an overview, walk up to the University Square area and make your way to the CEC Palace. It’s an architectural gem, best seen just before sunset.
A Glimpse of Modern Bucharest
Beyond the Old Town, Bucharest surprises with leafy boulevards and gritty grandeur. The Palace of Parliament looms large—literally, as one of the biggest buildings in the world. Consider pairing it with a walk through Carol Park or a visit to the National Museum of Contemporary Art housed inside.
Into Transylvania: What to Do Near Brașov
Head north from Bucharest and you’ll soon reach the Carpathians. This is where Romania’s landscape gets dramatic, and Brașov is a great base for exploring it all.
Brașov Romania: A Medieval Town with a Mountain Backdrop
Brașov Romania offers cobblestone streets, Saxon fortifications, and a sense of old-world charm. Walk around Piața Sfatului, take in the Black Church, and ride the Tampa Mountain cable car for a view over the red rooftops. The old city walls and bastions make for an easy walking loop.
It’s worth strolling Strada Sforii (Rope Street), one of the narrowest alleys in Europe. If you’re there in winter, Brașov also works as a hub for skiing in nearby Poiana Brașov.
What to Do Near Brașov: Day Trips and Quiet Escapes
Just outside the city, things slow down. Bran Castle is the most famous day trip, often linked to Dracula, though its history is more royal than vampiric. Râșnov Fortress nearby is quieter and offers a commanding view.
For something more local, consider villages like Viscri or Râușor. Their fortified churches and sheep pastures give you a glimpse of rural life that still moves at its own pace. You can also visit Libearty Bear Sanctuary in Zărnești, a forested home for rescued bears.
What to See in Romania in 3 Days: A Sample Itinerary
With only 3 days, it’s best to focus on a single region. Try this route for variety without rush:
Day 1: Land in Bucharest. Explore the Old Town, grab dinner near Calea Victoriei, and see the Palace of Parliament lit up at night.
Day 2: Morning train or drive to Brașov. Visit the Black Church, Rope Street, and dine in Piața Sfatului. Overnight in Brașov.
Day 3: Day trip to Bran Castle and Râșnov Fortress. On your return, stop in Cristian for a quieter village experience before heading back to Bucharest or onward.
This sample keeps your travel tight while still showing off some of the country’s top highlights.
Beyond the Obvious: Lesser-Known Things to See in Romania
Romania’s appeal isn’t limited to big names. Painted monasteries in Bucovina, the salt mines of Turda, or the Danube Delta’s still waters all deserve attention.
You’ll also find stone churches carved into cliffs in Țara Hațegului, wooden gates in Maramureș, and summer haymaking traditions in villages barely touched by tourism. Even cities like Timișoara and Iași have growing cultural scenes worth exploring.
Final Thoughts: What to See in Romania is a Personal Journey
What to see in Romania depends on your pace and interests. It’s a country of layered contrasts—urban and rural, modern and ancient, fast and slow.
Whether you only have three days or a few weeks, the richness lies in the small details: a smoky bowl of ciorbă, a carved wooden gate, a shepherd’s call echoing through the hills.
The best way to explore is with curiosity and an open mind.