UK
Castles, Carpathians & Culture
From medieval towns and forested mountains to vibrant cities and folklore-rich villages, Romania is a land of legends and landscapes. It’s a rising favourite among UK travellers seeking authenticity, adventure, and affordability.
Air Travel
Direct flights from London to Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and Ia?i take around 3–3.5 hours. Domestic flights connect regional cities like Timi?oara and Sibiu.
Airlines
British Airways, Wizz Air, Ryanair, and TAROM offer frequent service. Wizz Air and TAROM cover domestic routes.
Romania
Castles, Carpathians & Culture
Landmark
Travel Season
- May–September: Warm and scenic, ideal for hiking and sightseeing
- October–November: Autumn colours and wine festivals
- December–February: Snowy charm and ski resorts
- March–April: Spring blooms and fewer crowds
Currency & Money Tips
- Currency: Romanian Leu (RON)
- Cards widely accepted in cities; cash preferred in rural areas
- ATMs are plentiful; exchange rates better at banks than airports
- Tipping is customary (10% in restaurants)
Connectivity
- Free Wi-Fi in hotels, cafes, and public spaces
- Local SIM cards (Orange, Vodafone, Digi) available at airports
- High-speed internet is widely available
Getting Around
- CFR trains connect cities affordably but can be slow
- Buses and minibuses for regional travel
- Rental cars ideal for exploring Transylvania and countryside
- Metro system in Bucharest; taxis and rideshares available
Time Zone
- Eastern European Time (EET) – GMT+2
Etiquette & Culture
- Greet with a handshake and polite tone
- Tipping is expected in restaurants and taxis
- Respect religious customs and rural traditions
- English is widely spoken in tourist areas
Top Destinations
- Bucharest: Urban energy and eclectic architecture
- Bra?ov: Medieval charm and mountain backdrop
- Sibiu: Cultural capital and cobbled streets
- Cluj-Napoca: Student buzz and Transylvanian flair
- Maramure?: Wooden churches and rural traditions
- Delta Dunarii: Wildlife and waterway adventures
fastfood Food & Drink
- Must-try: Sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), Mamaliga (polenta), Ciorba (sour soup), Papanasi (fried dough with jam and cream)
- Local wines and plum brandy (?uica) are popular
- Tap water is safe in cities; bottled recommended in rural areas
- Traditional restaurants offer hearty, homemade fare
personal_bag What to Pack
- Layered clothing for seasonal changes
- Smart casual for dining out
- Power adapter (Type C/F plugs)
- Sturdy shoes for cobbled streets and hiking
Best Time to Visit
- May–June: Mild and scenic, ideal for road trips and festivals
- September–October: Autumn colours and wine season
- December: Christmas markets and snowy escapes
health_and_safety Safety & Health
- Romania is generally safe; petty theft can occur in busy areas
- Emergency number: 112 (police, ambulance, fire)
- Travel insurance recommended
- No special vaccinations required beyond routine UK jabs