12 Most Beautiful Places in Romania You Need to Visit in 2025

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I did a road trip through Romania last year, and it completely blew me away. This country is packed with incredible places you’ve got to see. After spending weeks winding through the Carpathian Mountains, I discovered a wild world where medieval villages sit frozen in time and landscapes look straight out of a fairy tale.

Let me share the most beautiful places to visit in Romania that left me speechless. From ancient monasteries glowing with vibrant frescoes to mountain roads that snake through misty forests, these 12 spots capture what makes this corner of Europe so magical. And with hardly any tourists around, it feels like you’ve stumbled upon Europe’s best-kept secret!

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#1 tip to save money on your trip to Romania

Let’s first cover some quick tips that will save you time and money on your Romanian adventure.

• FLYING: If you haven’t already, I HIGHLY recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going). Last summer, I flew to Bucharest for just $370 roundtrip thanks to their email alerts. The premium and elite version are even better!
• Food: Save by eating at local cantinas and “self-service” restaurants where a filling meal costs 15-25 lei ($3-5). Markets like Piața Obor in Bucharest offer fresh produce and traditional foods like covrigi for cheap. For quick meals, try local “covrigării” (pretzel shops) and “gogoserii” (donut shops).
• Transport: Get a reloadable card for public transport in cities like Bucharest and Cluj. For intercity travel, book CFR train tickets in advance – they offer significant discounts. Buses through companies like FlixBus are often cheaper than trains. Using public transport and booking advance tickets has saved me hundreds of lei on each trip.

Romania is one of Europe’s most affordable countries, especially once you leave Bucharest. But if you follow the strategies above, you can explore this fascinating country for even less. Now, without further ado, let’s jump into the best places to visit in Romania:

1. Balea Lake

• 📍 Location: Făgăraș Mountains, central Romania
• 🏆 Best For: 🏔️ Mountain lovers, 📸 photographers, ❄️ winter adventurers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking to Capra Lake, driving the Transfăgărășan Highway, visiting the Ice Hotel
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: July to September for clear trails and alpine blooms 🌼
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Cabana Bâlea Lac – Rustic lodge with direct lake views

Sitting at over 6,500 feet in the Făgăraș Mountains, Balea Lake is one of the most stunning glacial lakes in Romania. Its deep turquoise water and jagged mountain backdrop give it an almost surreal quality. The lake is accessible by driving the Transfăgărășan Highway, which is often called the most scenic road in the country. Even getting there feels like part of the adventure.

In summer, you’ll find alpine meadows, wildflowers, and well-marked trails that lead to neighboring lakes and viewpoints. Hikes around Balea are beginner-friendly but offer rewarding views that make the climb worth it. It’s also a favorite stop for road trippers and cyclists tackling the high-altitude switchbacks.

During winter, the lake freezes over and becomes home to Romania’s only Ice Hotel, built anew every season. Whether you’re here for hiking, driving, or a unique winter escape, Balea Lake promises a breathtaking experience year-round.

2. Sighisoara

• 📍 Location: Mureș County, central Romania
• 🏆 Best For: 🏰 History buffs, 🎭 festival-goers, 🏞️ architecture lovers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Climb the Clock Tower, explore Vlad Dracul’s House, attend the Medieval Festival
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to August for the warm weather and festivals 🎉
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Central Park Sighișoara – Historic hotel near the Old Citadel

Walking through Sighisoara feels like flipping through the pages of a medieval fairytale. This hilltop citadel town is one of the best-preserved in Europe, with pastel-colored houses, stone alleys, and charming courtyards. The iconic Clock Tower dominates the skyline and offers sweeping views of the town and nearby hills.

Sighisoara is famously known as the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the historical figure behind Dracula. You can even visit the house where he was born, now a restaurant. But the magic here isn’t just in the legends. It’s in the details—hand-painted signs, wrought-iron balconies, and cobblestones worn smooth by centuries of footsteps.

During summer, the town bursts into life with its annual Medieval Festival, complete with costumes, music, and fire shows. Whether you’re into history, folklore, or simply want to wander somewhere unique, Sighisoara makes a strong case for slowing down and soaking it all in.

• Read next: Beautiful Castles Around the World

3. Bigar Waterfall

• 📍 Location: Caraș-Severin County, Anina Mountains
• 🏆 Best For: 🌿 Nature lovers, 📸 photographers, 🌍 unique sights seekers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Snap photos of the moss-covered falls, hike in Cheile Nerei, visit the 45th Parallel marker
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to October for greener scenery and light hiking 🌳
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Motel Egreta – Rustic stay along the scenic DN57B road

Bigar Waterfall looks like something out of a fantasy movie. Water flows gently over a moss-covered rock formation, creating a curtain of droplets that glisten in the sunlight. It’s one of the most photogenic natural wonders in Romania and was once voted among the most unique waterfalls in the world.

Set within Cheile Nerei-Beușnița National Park, the surrounding area is lush and peaceful, ideal for a short hike or scenic drive. Despite its popularity, the site remains relatively uncrowded, making it a peaceful place to appreciate the slow rhythm of nature. A stop here is especially rewarding if you enjoy quiet spots that feel off the tourist trail.

Adding to its allure is its position on the 45th parallel, marking the halfway point between the Equator and North Pole. That geographical oddity, combined with the waterfall’s dreamlike setting, makes this a hidden gem you won’t want to miss.

4. The Transfăgărășan Highway

• 📍 Location: Făgăraș Mountains, central Romania
• 🏆 Best For: 🚗 Road trippers, 📸 adventure photographers, 🏔️ mountain lovers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Driving the switchbacks, visiting Balea Lake, stopping at Poenari Fortress
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: July to October for snow-free driving and clear views 🚘
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hanul Patrisiei – Pension in Cârțișoara with indoor pool, free parking, and hearty breakfast

Often called the most beautiful road in the world, the Transfăgărășan Highway is a 56-mile stretch of winding road that climbs through the Făgăraș Mountains. With sharp switchbacks, tunnels, and sweeping alpine views, it’s a bucket list experience for anyone who loves road trips and mountain scenery.

The drive takes you through forests, over ridges, and past waterfalls, with panoramic stops at nearly every bend. At its highest point, you’ll reach Balea Lake, a glacial lake surrounded by peaks. It’s one of the most photographed places in Romania for a reason.

Whether you’re tackling it by car, bike, or even on foot for short sections, the road offers a thrilling way to see the Carpathians. Make sure to check road conditions before your trip, as snow can close the route for much of the year.

5. Retezat National Park

• 📍 Location: Hunedoara County, western Romania
• 🏆 Best For: 🥾 Hikers, 🌲 nature enthusiasts, 🌄 landscape photographers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Trekking to Bucura Lake, wildlife spotting, exploring glacier valleys
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September for accessible trails and alpine weather ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Pensiunea Retezat – Cozy guesthouse close to Rîu de Mori with mountain views

Retezat National Park is a dream come true for anyone who loves rugged landscapes and remote trails. Home to over 20 glacial lakes, dozens of peaks above 7,000 feet, and hundreds of plant species, the park is often considered the crown jewel of Romania’s Carpathians.

One of the top hikes here leads to Bucura Lake, the largest glacial lake in the country. Along the way, you’ll pass through alpine meadows, pine forests, and valleys carved by ice over thousands of years. The park also shelters rare wildlife, including chamois, marmots, and even lynxes.

Most trails are well-marked, though they can be steep and rocky in places. It’s worth the climb for views that stretch across untouched wilderness. Retezat offers a more off-the-grid mountain experience, perfect for seasoned hikers or anyone looking to disconnect for a while.

6. Danube Delta

• 📍 Location: Tulcea County, Southeastern Romania
• 🏆 Best For: 🐦 Birdwatchers, 🚣 Nature explorers, 🌅 Photographers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Birdwatching tours, kayaking through reed channels, visiting Letea Forest
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to September during bird migration seasons for the best sightings 🦆
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Green Village Resort – Waterfront eco-resort in Sfântu Gheorghe with boat access

The Danube Delta is one of the most biodiverse places in Europe and feels like another world compared to the rest of Romania. Its maze of waterways, reed beds, and lakes form a quiet refuge for over 300 species of birds, making it a dream for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

Exploring this UNESCO site by kayak or boat lets you slip past floating lily pads and stilt villages where fishermen live the same way they have for generations. Sfântu Gheorghe and Mila 23 are two of the most atmospheric villages to visit, each accessible only by water.

This is not just a sightseeing spot. It’s a place where nature truly takes over and time slows down. Come for the pelicans and sunsets, but stay for the feeling that you’ve discovered a part of Europe that still breathes wildness.

7. Peles Castle

• 📍 Location: Sinaia, Prahova County
• 🏆 Best For: 🏰 Architecture buffs, 🎨 Art lovers, 📷 Castle chasers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Touring royal chambers, walking the castle gardens, exploring the nearby Pelisor Castle
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October for warm weather and open gardens 🌼
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Bastion – Historic stay right next to the castle with period-style rooms

Peles Castle looks like something pulled from a storybook, but it’s very real and just as impressive in person. Built in the 19th century, this Neo-Renaissance palace was the summer residence of Romania’s royal family. Its blend of German, Italian, and Moorish styles makes every corner feel unique and worth photographing.

Inside, each room tells a different story. The library has hidden doors, the music room was designed with Indian influences, and the royal bedrooms show off handcrafted furniture and elaborate woodwork. Guided tours help you understand the castle’s history, but even wandering quietly can be unforgettable.

The surrounding gardens are peaceful, with mountain views and sculptures dotting the paths. Right next door, Pelisor Castle offers a smaller but equally beautiful visit. If you’re heading to Sinaia, make time for both as they give a real glimpse into Romania’s royal past.

8. Sibiu

• 📍 Location: Sibiu County, central Romania
• 🏆 Best For: 🎭 Culture seekers, 🧱 architecture fans, 🌃 city wanderers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring the Big Square, crossing the Bridge of Lies, visiting Brukenthal Palace
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for festivals and ideal walking weather 🎨
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Art Hotel – Stylish boutique hotel just steps from the Old Town

Sibiu is the kind of city that makes you want to slow down and explore every cobbled street. Once a major Saxon stronghold, it now mixes old-world charm with modern culture. The historic center is split between the Upper and Lower Towns, each with colorful houses, Gothic churches, and quiet stairways connecting them.

One of the most photographed spots is the Bridge of Lies, wrapped in legends and local stories. A short walk away, you’ll find Brukenthal Palace, home to one of Eastern Europe’s oldest art museums. The open-air ASTRA Museum nearby is also worth a half-day visit.

Sibiu hosts major festivals in summer, including theater, jazz, and film events that take over the plazas. With mountain views in the distance and coffee shops tucked into medieval corners, the city is both scenic and full of life.

9. Brasov

• 📍 Location: Brașov County, central Romania
• 🏆 Best For: 🏰 Castle hoppers, 🚶‍♂️ city strollers, 🎿 winter travelers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the Black Church, walking Rope Street, day trip to Bran Castle
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to February for snow or May to September for mild weather ❄️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Casa Chitic – Warm and inviting hotel right in the heart of Old Town

Brașov blends medieval atmosphere with easy access to the outdoors. Nestled beneath the Carpathian Mountains, the city’s backdrop is just as impressive as its Old Town. Cobblestone streets, Gothic towers, and centuries-old buildings make it one of the most photogenic cities in Romania.

The centerpiece is Council Square, where you’ll find cafes, fountains, and people-watching at any hour. Just beyond it stands the iconic Black Church, the largest Gothic structure in the country. Walk a few minutes farther to discover Rope Street, a narrow alley that’s perfect for quick photos.

Beyond the town walls, there’s plenty to explore. Bran Castle, often tied to the Dracula myth, is less than an hour away. Winter visitors can also hit the slopes at Poiana Brașov, a nearby ski resort. Whether you stay in town or venture out, Brașov is a strong all-season destination.

10. Apuseni Natural Park

• 📍 Location: Western Carpathians, Romania
• 🏆 Best For: 🌲 Hikers, 🌄 cave explorers, 🐻 wildlife watchers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Scărișoara Cave, hiking to Padiș Plateau, spotting wildlife in the forests
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September for dry trails and full cave access 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Pensiunea Casa Noastră – Guesthouse in Arieșeni with private bathrooms, free Wi‑Fi, mini‑fridge, and close access to hiking trails

Apuseni Natural Park is one of Romania’s best-kept secrets. With limestone cliffs, deep caves, and dense forests, it offers a slower, more peaceful outdoor experience than the more famous Carpathian parks. Hikers can explore quiet trails that pass remote hamlets and open up to sweeping viewpoints.

One of the park’s top highlights is Scărișoara Cave, which holds one of the largest underground glaciers in Europe. Other natural wonders include Padiș Plateau, Fortress of Ponor, and Bears’ Cave, each offering something different depending on your pace and interest.

The area is also known for traditional mountain villages that preserve a simpler, rural lifestyle. Local guesthouses serve hearty meals and are often run by families who know the trails well. If you want a trip that mixes adventure with culture, Apuseni is a strong contender.

11. Maramureș

• 📍 Location: Northern Romania
• 🏆 Best For: 🏡 Cultural travelers, 🚃 slow explorers, 🎨 folk art fans
• 📸 Top Experiences: Riding the Mocănița steam train, visiting wooden churches, exploring the Merry Cemetery
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October for warm weather and village festivals 🎊
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Pensiunea Maramu – Traditional-style home stay with mountain views and home-cooked meals

Maramureș feels like a step back in time. It’s one of the most traditional regions in Romania, where wooden churches, horse carts, and folk costumes are still part of daily life. The region is dotted with tiny villages where customs have been passed down for generations.

The UNESCO-listed wooden churches are a must-see, with tall spires and hand-painted interiors that tell local religious stories. Another favorite stop is the Merry Cemetery in Săpânța, where colorful headstones mix humor and remembrance in a way that’s both moving and unique.

One of the most relaxing experiences here is the Mocănița steam train, which winds through forested hills at a peaceful pace. Whether you’re into photography, cultural immersion, or just want a break from fast-paced travel, Maramureș gives you space to breathe.

12. The Bicaz Gorge

• 📍 Location: Eastern Carpathians, Romania
• 🏆 Best For: 🧗‍♂️ Rock climbers, 🚘 scenic drivers, 🌲 nature lovers
• 📸 Top Experiences: Driving through the gorge, hiking to Red Lake, stopping at roadside stalls
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October for clear views and safe driving conditions ☀️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Vila Cristina – Comfortable base in Lacu Roșu with easy access to trails and the lake

The Bicaz Gorge is one of the most dramatic natural sights in Romania. Towering limestone walls rise on either side of a narrow road, creating a stunning drive that twists through the heart of the Eastern Carpathians. It’s a popular stop for travelers heading between Transylvania and Moldova.

The road hugs the cliffs closely, passing waterfalls, tight curves, and vendors selling local honey and crafts. It’s not a fast route, but the scenery makes it one of the most memorable drives in the country. Cheile Bicazului is especially beautiful in the fall when the leaves turn.

Nearby, Lacu Roșu (Red Lake) offers kayaking, hiking, and peaceful forest views. Whether you’re coming for the challenge of the road or the nature that surrounds it, Bicaz delivers a mix of thrill and serenity in one compact stretch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Most Beautiful Places in Romania to Visit:

Are you looking to further your knowledge of where to go in Romania? Here are some common questions (and answers) I get asked a lot about the most beautiful places in Romania.

What is the most beautiful view in Romania?

Romania is home to countless breathtaking views, but the panorama from the Transfăgărășan Highway is definitely the most beautiful place to see in Romania. As you navigate its serpentine roads, you’re greeted with expansive vistas of the Carpathian Mountains, serene lakes, and deep valleys. It’s a visual treat that encapsulates the country’s natural splendor.

Here are some other beautiful views in Romania:

• The Bucegi Mountains: Found in the Carpathians, the Bucegi Mountains offer dramatic landscapes that you can explore via multiple hiking trails. The mountain range contains unique rock formations like the Sphinx and Babele. These rocks resemble human figures.
• Bran Castle: Often linked to the Dracula legend, this castle is perched atop a hill, providing a fairy-tale-like view amidst dense forests.
• Transfăgărășan Road: Known as one of the world’s most scenic roads, it winds through the Carpathian Mountains and offers astonishing views at every turn.
• The Painted Monasteries of Bucovina: These are not just religious sites but also offer a visual treat with their intricate frescoes set against a backdrop of rolling hills.
• The Danube Delta: A UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s one of Europe’s best-preserved deltas and offers serene views of rivers, lakes, and a vast array of bird species.

Where is the most beautiful city in Romania?

Sibiu, located in the heart of Transylvania, is one of the most beautiful cities in Romania. Its blend of Gothic architecture, vibrant squares, and rich history creates a captivating atmosphere. Every corner of the city tells a story, making it a must-visit for travelers.

Is Romania a beautiful country?

Absolutely! Romania is a mosaic of natural wonders, from the tranquil Danube Delta to the rugged Carpathian Mountains. Its picturesque towns, vibrant festivals, and rich cultural heritage make it one of the most beautiful countries in Europe. Every region offers a unique charm, making it a traveler’s delight.

Is Romania worth visiting?

Definitely. Romania offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring its historic castles, hiking in its national parks, or enjoying its vibrant festivals, Romania promises a memorable experience.

What is the beauty of Romania country?

Romania, often described as a hidden gem in Eastern Europe, is a country that radiates a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Here’s a glimpse into the multifaceted beauty of Romania:

1. Natural Landscapes: Romania boasts a wide range of scenic wonders. From the Carpathian Mountains, perfect for hiking and skiing, to the tranquil beauty of the Danube Delta, and the mesmerizing caves and gorges, Romania’s landscapes are both diverse and captivating.
2. Medieval Charm: Towns like Brașov, Sibiu, and Sighișoara exude medieval charm with their cobbled streets, colorful houses, fortified churches, and ancient towers. They provide a window into the country’s past.
3. Castles and Fortresses: Romania is home to some of Europe’s most beautiful and intriguing castles. Bran Castle, often associated with the Dracula legend, and Peleș Castle, a neo-Renaissance masterpiece, are must-visits.
4. Cultural Heritage: The painted monasteries of Bucovina, with their intricate frescoes depicting biblical scenes on their exterior walls, are a testament to Romania’s rich cultural and religious heritage.
5. Traditions and Folklore: Romania has managed to preserve its traditions and folklore, especially in regions like Maramureș and Bucovina. The vibrant festivals, traditional dances, and folk music offer insight into the country’s soul.

What is typical Romanian food?

Romanian cuisine is a hearty fusion of flavors. Some traditional dishes include mămăligă (cornmeal porridge), mămăliguță cu brânză și smântână (polenta with cheese and sour cream), and sarmale (cabbage rolls filled with meat). For anyone wondering what to do in Romania, indulging in desserts like papanasi (fried doughnuts with sour cream and jam) and cozonac (sweet bread with nuts and cocoa) is a culinary adventure in itself.

Why is Romanian so unique?

Romanian, the language spoken primarily in Romania and Moldova, holds a unique position within the family of Romance languages. Here’s what makes it so distinctive:

1. Easternmost Romance Language: While Romance languages like French, Spanish, Portuguese, and Italian evolved in the western part of the Roman Empire, Romanian developed in the east, in the province of Dacia (modern-day Romania and Moldova). This eastern location influenced its development.
2. Latin Foundation: Just like its western counterparts, Romanian originated from Latin, the language of the Romans. Around 85% of its lexicon dates back to Latin.
3. Influences from Neighboring Languages: Due to its geographical location, Romanian was heavily influenced by neighboring Slavic languages. As a result, a significant part of its vocabulary and certain grammatical structures have Slavic origins. Additionally, there have been borrowings from Hungarian, Turkish, Greek, and more recently, French and English.
4. Retention of Latin Cases: While most other Romance languages lost the declension system of Latin, Romanian retained and simplified it. The language has five cases: nominative, accusative, genitive, dative, and vocative.
5. Unique Phonetics: Romanian has several sounds that don’t appear in other Romance languages. For instance, the “ă” sound (as in “cărți” meaning “books”) and the “î/â” sound (as in “înțelege” meaning “understand”).
6. Vocabulary Evolution: While Romanian retains a core Latin vocabulary, many common words have evolved differently than in other Romance languages. For example, “water” is “apă” in Romanian, closer to the Latin “aqua” than the Spanish “agua” or French “eau”.