Jurisdiction Guide

May to early October brings pleasant weather and outdoor festivals. Winters are cold, but the Carpathians offer good skiing from December to March.

Cash is handy, though cards work in cities. Tipping is expected in restaurants (10 percent usually). SIM cards are cheap and easy to get at airports or kiosks. Most people under 40 know basic English, but a few Romanian words help. Intercity trains are reliable but slow; buses often run faster.

A handshake is the common greeting. Dress modestly in churches, cover shoulders and knees. Wait to be invited to use first names. Remove shoes if entering someone's home. When visiting, bring flowers or chocolates for hosts.

Petty theft can happen in crowded spots and on public transport. Roads can be rough and some drivers are aggressive, especially outside cities. Bear encounters are rare but possible near mountain trails, stick to marked paths. Tap water is generally safe in cities, but ask locals in rural areas.

The Apuseni Mountains hide limestone caves and quiet villages. The painted monasteries of Bucovina show detailed frescoes inside and out. Danube Delta offers unique birdwatching and sleepy backwater trips few travelers see.

EU, UK, US, Canadian, and Australian visitors get 90 days visa-free in any 180-day period. Others may need to apply ahead. Romania offers a digital nomad visa with proof of remote work and income. Temporary residency is possible for work, studies, or family reasons.

Romania's trains link most cities and towns, though travel is slow. Buses cover places trains skip and are often faster. Domestic flights serve distant cities. Rideshare apps (like Bolt or Uber) work well in bigger towns. Renting a car helps for rural areas, but watch for potholes.

Try sarmale (cabbage rolls), mămăligă (cornmeal porridge), and mici (grilled sausages). Ciorbă is a sour soup, often with meat and vegetables. Local wines and țuică (plum brandy) are popular with meals. Many traditional places lack vegetarian main dishes, but bigger cities cater to all diets. Street food and tap water are usually safe in urban areas.

Romania is affordable compared to Western Europe. Budget travelers can get by in smaller towns for €40 a day, while €70–120 covers mid-range comfort in cities. Bucharest and Cluj are pricier, especially for hotels. A local beer costs €1.5–2, and a sit-down meal starts at €7 in most places.