A land of enchanting castles, vibrant cities, and breathtaking landscapes. Romania is a top destination for worldwide travelers.
But what if your trip only lasts 5 days? Well, proper planning is crucial to fully enjoying its major attractions. In this guide, I’ll share a detailed 5-day travel itinerary covering must-see attractions as well as essential tips for a smooth trip. So you won't waste a day!
1. Considerations When Planning Your Romania Travel Itinerary
Several factors can affect your experience when planning a trip to Romania. Don't know what to expect? No worries—I've come up with some highlights for you.
Budget and costs come first and can guide your choice of accommodation, meals, and activities. Then check when you will arrive, including determining the weather and peak and low seasons. This factor, together with the next one, your preferences, determines your daily itinerary, whether city tours, outdoor activities, cultural events, etc.
In addition, consider your physical condition when making your itinerary. For example, if you get tired quickly, then a tight schedule is not your fit.
2. How to Make A 5 Days Travel Itinerary in Romania
Route Overview
Okay, now let's get to the best part. The journey starts in the capital; then you will visit Sinaia, Bran, Turda, and finally Sibiu. What does this route offer? Various experiences of Romania's main and iconic sights. You'll get the most out of this short trip.
Detailed Itinerary for Day 1 to Day 5
Day | Destination | Recommended Spots |
1-2 | Bucharest | Explore architecture, including styles from the Ceausescu era |
3 | Bucharest ➡ Sinaia | Visit Peles Castle |
4 | Sinaia ➡ Bran ➡ Turda | Bran Castle, Salina Turda Museum |
5 | Turda ➡ Sibiu | Explore Sibiu's unique architecture |
Day 1-2: Arrival in Bucharest
After arriving in Bucharest, take some rest. You will then spend 1-2 days here admiring Bucharest's diverse architectural styles, from the glorious past to the unique Ceausescu era.
Must-see attractions:
Palace of the Parliament: an architectural marvel and one of the largest administrative buildings in the world.
Old Town: This is a must-visit. Filled with cafes, shops, and historic buildings, it's a lively area where you can wander like a local.
Romanian Athenaeum is a concert hall known for its ornate interiors.
Revolution Square: Not far from the hall. It holds a great deal of weight in Romania's history.
Village Museum: The name alone piques your curiosity, doesn't it? You may be wondering, what's in it and what does it look like? Wandering through the open-air museum will make you feel like you've stepped back in time. And I also discovered some local artifacts. In short, it’s a place you can find the real Romanian village life.
Where to stay:
I usually stay in the city center, which is close to major attractions and dining options.
For Transportation: Get around on foot, by public transportation, or by taxi.
Day 3: Bucharest to Sinaia
You will then go to Sinaia. You can leave on the night of Day 2 or the morning of Day 3.
The magnificent Peles Castle awaits you. It's a fairytale castle with beautiful gardens and interiors. But it's much more than that—Sinaia Monastery, Casino Sinaia, Bușteni, and Sinaia Park are all worth seeing.
Where to Stay:
A local guesthouse or hotel near Peles Castle for easy access.
Buy Peles Castle tickets online to avoid long lines or sold-out tickets. Check the opening times so you don't miss out. The official website of Peles Castle is: https://en.peles.ro/opening-hours/
Day 4: Sinaia to Bran to Turda
Today's route is about Bran, where the famous Bran Castle is. Then continue to Turda.
Must-see attractions:
Bran Castle: You may have heard it by other names. Dracula's Castle. If you like history and legend, this won't disappoint you. Wandering through the spooky halls, I couldn’t help but immerse myself in the story of Count Dracula – it was so exciting!
Rasnov Fortress is on top of a huge hill and surrounded by medieval walls. And if you look at it from a different angle, you'll always have a panoramic view no matter where you look!
Salina Turda: A spectacular underground salt mine turned into a museum and amusement park. Can you imagine that you can ride a Ferris wheel underground?
Turda Gorge and Cheile Turzii: Both are beautiful gorges with dramatic landscapes, perfect for hiking and photography.
Where to Stay:
Choose a cozy guesthouse or hotel in Turda to rest after a day of exploration.
Day 5: Turda to Sibiu
Why Sibiu? Because it has a unique architecture and cultural vibe that you can’t miss.
Must-See Attractions:
The Council Tower: A special place that offers a panoramic view of Sibiu's historic center.
Brukenthal National Museum: One of Romania’s oldest museums with impressive art collections.
Sibiu Lutheran Cathedral: It's gothic-type. Everyone will love the stone carvings and stained glass sections; they look so surreal.
Piata Mare is the vibrant heart of the city. Historical buildings abound, not to mention activities. So talk to a local or google to attend a market day or festival. This square will add color to your trip.
ASTRA Museum: This is another showcase of Romanian folk culture. Open air, authentic homes and crafts - everything is related to a bygone time and tradition.
Where to Stay:
Opt for a hotel in Sibiu’s old town for easy access to major attractions.
Take a walking tour to fully appreciate Sibiu’s historical and architectural beauty.
How can you make travel to Romania shorter or longer than 5 days?
To get a 2-4 day trip, skip some of the sights that you aren't interested in, such as Bran Castle and Salina Tudor, and focus on Bucharest and Sibiu. For a longer itinerary, I would add a day to visit the Transfăgărăşan highway, or to stay longer in Bucharest. Just everything you want.
3. Top 10 Romanian Food and Drink
I have tried Romanian food, which is pretty good. So, what should you choose from a menu? Check these 10 names below.
1. Sarmale:
Looks like cabbage rolls. But what's so special about it? Minced pork, beef, rice and spices, the final step is slow cooking in a delicious tomato sauce. Sour cream and polenta are their best partners.
2. Mici (Mititei):
Sausages, common. Skinless sausages, first time. It is made from beef, lamb and pork and is seasoned with garlic and spices. You must try it with a splash of mustard and a slice of fresh bread.
3. Ciorbă de burtă:
Guess what is this? Tripe soup. Huh, it's a bit strange, I was skeptical before trying it. But then the creamy texture and tangy flavors of vinegar, garlic, and sour cream won me over. The chili pepper flavor is more intense.
4. Papanasi:
These ried doughnuts are made from sweet cheese, eggs, and flour, topped with sour cream and fruit preserves.
5. Mămăligă:
You may find this staple similar to polenta. The ingredients are simple. Serve boiled cornmeal with cheese, sour cream or a hearty stew.
6. Ciorbă de fasole cu afumătură:
Hearty bean soup with smoked meats like ham hocks or bacon, flavored with vegetables and herbs. Served with red onions or bread.
7. Zacuscă:
Vegetable spread made from roasted eggplant, red peppers, tomatoes, and onions, seasoned with spices. Enjoyed as a spread on bread.
8. Cozonac:
I’ve tried this sweet holiday bread filled with nuts, poppy seeds, or cocoa during festive seasons, and its dense, rich texture is perfect with a cup of tea or coffee.
9. Plăcintă:
Pastry filled with cheese, apples, or potatoes. Enjoyed as a snack or dessert, depending on the filling.
10. Țuică:
The last one is a famous Romanian drink. Locals usually made it with fruit, plums being the most common, and sometimes you'll see apple or pear versions. It's typically clear, strong (usually around 40-60% alcohol by volume), and suitable for drinking in small glasses.
4. Additional Tips for Romania Traveling
Packing Essentials
The document, like a passport, is a must. Apart from this, other essentials are also crucial for your trip. So I always suggest everyone make their lists as detailed as possible. A complete list should cover many aspects, from getting around, such as comfortable walking shoes, clothing, and travel adapters, to first aid preparation, including basic medicines for headaches or stomach problems, etc. Well, you can also buy some essentials when you arrive in Romania.
Cash, Local Apps for Payment and Transport
Always get some cash for small purchases. For convenient travel, get your phone with local apps installed. Revolut is for payments, and Bolt or Uber is for transport.
Communication, Local Etiquette and Customs
Learning some simple Romanian greetings is also fun. It helps you get closer to the locals and show respect. The ones I use the most are:
Salut (Hello)
Bunăziua (good day)
Mulşumesc” (thank you)
Vă rog (Please),
Unde este? (Where is?).
And be careful not to discuss sensitive political topics.
Transport Options
Romania offers various transport options, including trains, buses, and flights. Trains are scenic but can be slow, while buses are economical. For long distances, flights are the fastest.
Renting a Car or Scooter
Well, although I don't think renting a car is necessary for this five-day trip, just in case, I added this point. Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. However, two main factors must be remembered. The first is safety and obeying local traffic rules. The second is documentation, which usually includes your driver's license, international driving permit, translations, etc.