With stunning landscapes, medieval towns, rich history and culture, there are so many reasons to visit Romania and yet this diverse country is often overlooked. and yet this diverse country is often overlooked. Perhaps Transylvania, the biggest and best-known region of Romania, gives the impression that all the country has to offer are scary castles and stories of blood-sucking vampires; but there is so much more to discover in this wonderful region. Explore our recommendations for some of the best places to see in Romania.
Top towns and cities in Romania
Brasov
Surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains and overlooked by Mount Tampa, the picturesque medieval city of Brasov is one of the most visited places in Romania. Linked to the legend of the Pied Piper, the town certainly has a storybook quality, with its cobbled streets and pointed turrets. Highlights of Brasov include the Black Church, Nicholas Church, the oldest Romanian Orthodox church in the country, and Piața Sfatului, the old town square. With a relaxed vibe and great café culture, Brasov is the perfect spot from which to explore the surrounding countryside. For a fantastic panoramic view, take the cable car up to the Tâmpa Mountains.
Bucharest
There is so much to discover in Romania’s capital, from walking along the historic Calea Victoriei avenue to relaxing in its charming gardens and parks. The historic Centru Vechi or Old Town of Bucharest is the district of artisans and merchants that emerged around the Princely Court back in the 16th century. Since the Romanian Revolution in 1989, it has evolved into a lively entertainment district, full of bars, pubs and restaurants, making it the perfect area to explore day or night; helping earn Bucharest its nickname, ‘Little Paris’. One of the most fascinating things to do in the city is visit the Parliament House, the second-largest government building in the world. Commissioned by Romania’s infamous dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu, guided tours must be booked in advance, but it’s well worth visiting to understand this striking legacy of Ceaușescu’s regime.
Sighisoara
A colourful corner of Romania, Sighișoara is famous for being the birthplace of “Dracula”, Vlad Tepes, and is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. Founded by German merchants and craftsmen, the UNESCO World Heritage Site town is a wonderful place to explore with its cobbled streets and vibrant buildings. Some of the top sights to see in Sighișoara include the Citadel, the clock tower and Piața Cetății (Citadel Square).
Viscri
A tiny Transylvanian village with huge cultural significance, Viscri is one of Romania’s most charming and traditional destinations. Famous for its beautifully preserved Saxon fortified church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the village offers a glimpse into rural life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. Its whitewashed houses, cobbled lanes and peaceful atmosphere make it a delightful place to explore on foot. Viscri is also known for its local crafts, especially handmade socks and textiles produced by the community. A visit here is like stepping back in time and experiencing the slow, authentic rhythm of Romanian village life.
Sinaia
The town of Sinaia, the “Pearl of the Carpathians”, is surrounded by magnificent mountainscapes. Visit the Sinaia Monastery and the enchanting Peleș Castle, which was used as a summer palace by King Carol I. The town is also renowned for its royal connections and elegant villas, giving it a grand yet peaceful character that perfectly complements its scenic setting.
Top castles in Romania
Peles Castle
Often considered one of the most beautiful castles in Europe, Peleș Castle is a masterpiece of Neo-Renaissance architecture set against the wooded backdrop of the Carpathian Mountains. Built in the late 19th century as a summer residence for King Carol I, the castle is renowned for its lavish interiors, stained glass windows and ornate woodwork. Each room has its own distinct theme, showcasing an extraordinary collection of art, weaponry and decorative objects. Surrounded by immaculate gardens and dramatic scenery, Peleș Castle feels like a real-life fairy-tale palace and is an unmissable stop on any trip to Transylvania.
Bran Castle
It wouldn’t be a trip to Romania without seeing its most iconic sight, Dracula’s Castle. Situated on the edge of Bran Gorge, Bran Castle, as it’s also known, is a medieval fortress on the Transylvanian border, dating back to the 13th century. It’s believed that Bram Stoker, who wrote the famous novel ‘Dracula’, was inspired by the violent exploits of the Romanian ruler Vlad the Impaler. Although there is no evidence that Stoker knew anything about Bran Castle, it’s still a fascinating medieval fortress. Today the castle is open to the public and houses a display of art and furniture collected by Queen Marie during the fortress’s time as a royal residence between 1920 and 1948.
Nature and wildlife in Romania
Mount Tampa
Rising above Brasov, Mount Tampa offers some of the most rewarding viewpoints in Transylvania. You can reach the summit by hiking through its lush forest trails or by taking the cable car, making it accessible for all fitness levels. From the top, enjoy sweeping panoramas of Brasov’s terracotta rooftops, medieval walls and the surrounding Carpathian Mountains. It’s a peaceful escape into nature and a fantastic way to appreciate the region’s dramatic landscapes.
Libearty Bear Sanctuary
Set in the forests near Zărnești, the Libearty Bear Sanctuary is one of Europe’s largest brown bear reserves and a remarkable conservation success story. Home to over 100 rescued bears, the sanctuary provides a safe and natural environment where they can roam freely after being saved from captivity or mistreatment. A visit here offers a rare chance to observe these incredible animals up close while learning about Romania’s commitment to wildlife protection.
Ready to discover the most beautiful places in Romania?
Transylvania isn’t just for Halloween! Whether you want to explore the vibrant city of Bucharest, Dracula's castle, or appreciate this country's beautiful countryside and historic towns, a holiday to Romania is sure to win you over with its many charms.
