After each trip, we make it a habit to translate our impressions into detailed accounts, a process that requires time and focus to gather all materials and emotions in one place.

Meanwhile, I prefer our first post to always be a comprehensive account of our experience and a presentation of the individual locations within a specific area.

In the same way, this time we will talk about Romania. A country that belongs to the Balkans, yet we experienced it as a mix of different cultures and influences that have shaped its current appearance, both from a historical and political perspective, as well as geographically and culturally.

To our surprise, our expectations were exceeded in a positive sense, and what we saw was completely different from our previous perception of Romania.

Known for its high mountains and landscapes, vast expanses of sunflower fields, cities that resemble European ones more than Balkan ones, and the traditional aromas and flavors of all its specialties, Romania is one of those countries worth traveling to. 

If you embark on an adventure and exploration, you will be enticed by the wide range of places it has to offer, regardless of the purpose of your trip. Mane and I are sure it won’t disappoint you, and you can judge for yourself based on the shots we managed to capture.

Below, I will write down our route, which I hope will serve as inspiration and a first step for your next road trip. Of course, we’d be delighted if you make changes, add new places, or perhaps stay a day longer compared to our adventure.

Craiova

The largest city in southern Romania, lying between the Danube Basin and the Carpathian Mountains. If you're traveling from Macedonia, make your first overnight stop here, and then continue exploring the rest of the Transylvania region. During the day, tour the Romanescu Park, and in the evening, take a walk to the old town and get acquainted with its interesting buildings from the past. Craiova is known as a bustling city that will likely keep you for a drink in the evening, if not a meal.

Transfăgărășan

The Făgăraș Mountains is a place you don't want to miss on this adventure. The dense forests and high cliffs will make your journey unforgettable, and the hairpin turns will take you to the highest point – Bâlea Lake, located at 2037 meters above sea level. The largest population of bears in Romania resides in these mountains, so it’s not uncommon to encounter one. It's important to avoid any contact, especially feeding them. These are wild animals, and despite appearing tame, you definitely don’t want to see them in their true light. Keep your camera handy, take a picture or video, and continue your journey.

*Don’t stop on the road and create traffic jams, especially if you’re in a car, because while you're admiring the view from the comfort of your vehicle, motorcyclists and cyclists are exposed to danger when they have to wait in a two-way jam and can’t pass through.

The Transfăgărășan Pass is about 90 kilometers long and is ranked among the top routes in the world for motorbike riding. It's best to start from the Sibiu side so you can ride the big curves uphill. Keep in mind that during the summer months, there are many tourists and traffic jams, which will result in standing in line or constantly overtaking cars and buses, making your journey exhausting. It’s best to set off in the early morning hours or drive it in the reverse direction – starting from Pitești.

Brașov

Nestled in the embrace of the Carpathians, the city of Brașov will satisfy your aesthetic senses with the sharp contrast between colorful, traditional buildings, the tall churches rising above the urban skyline, and the green pine forests in the background. Don’t miss a visit to the old town and enjoy the culture in this beautifully complete city. You’ll be surprised by its cleanliness, organization, and the pleasant harmony of modern life that exists among the old cobblestone streets.

Râșnov

In close proximity to Brașov is the town of Râșnov, whose architecture will undoubtedly catch your attention and make you wonder how a Romanian family lives behind the colorful, perfectly designed facades and tall gates that completely block the view of their privacy. This was very fascinating for us, not only in Râșnov but in all the villages and settlements around, where this style of building is applied. 

On the hill rising high above the town is a historical fortress, which can be reached on foot or by gondola. Unfortunately, it was closed during our stay, and we couldn’t go up. If you visit Râșnov, make sure to do so.

*Important: All establishments close by 10:00 PM, and food service stops at 9:30 PM. If you haven’t eaten, make sure to secure food in advance because after this time, you won’t find anything open, except for a gas station.

*We spent the night in Râșnov because it is a crossroads between the three castles (read below).

Peleș Castle

Built at the beginning of the 20th century by the first King of Romania as his summer residence. It is located in the Sinaia area in Bunești, on the road connecting Transylvania and Wallacia. A great place for a walk, sightseeing, and enjoying the south-eastern slopes of the Carpathians.

Cantacuzino Castle

A neo-Romanian building that attracted the directors of the popular mini-series Wednesday to film here due to its architectural, historical, and artistic value. In fact, the castle represents the Nevermore Academy, which doubled its popularity. Besides recognizing the scenes, you can enjoy the view of the Carpathians, stay for coffee or lunch in one of the restaurants, or perhaps even have your wedding photo session. While visiting the gardens is open for individual visits (20 lei or 250 denars is the entrance fee), access to the interior is prohibited unless you join a guided tour organized by them. But to do that, you’ll likely need a personal translator or understand Romanian, as it’s the only language these tours are conducted in.

In the castle, you’ll find signs prompting you to search for the circular stained-glass window from Wednesday’s room. While it all seems real due to the numerous stained-glass windows in the castle, I have to disappoint you and tell you that it was achieved with studio filming and post-production in Bucharest. The ticket to see it costs 15 lei, or 200 denars, and all that’s inside is a room recreating Wednesday and her roommate's room, with a simple canvas projection of the stained-glass window used to “trick” tourists who visit here.

Bran Castle

Also known as Dracula’s Castle, was built by the Saxons (a Germanic people) in the 9th century and has become a recognizable symbol of Transylvania. The specific location where it was built marks the border between the two historical regions: Transylvania and Wallachia, leading to the intertwining of the story and connecting the castle with the ruler Vlad III, known as Dracula. Although these details are not entirely confirmed, today the story of Vlad and his strategy of fighting against the Ottomans is told to attract tourists' attention. 

Salina Turda

An underground world that will surpass your wildest imagination. It started operating in the 7th century under Hungarian rule until the first half of the 20th century, after which it was renovated and converted into a center for halotherapy/speliotherapy (alternative medicine using salt to help people with lung obstructions) in 1992. Two decades later, a significant investment was made, and the mine was turned into a museum or rather a tourist attraction. Besides learning historical and technical data about its construction and operation, it is enriched with recreational facilities like ping-pong, an amphitheater, bowling, a souvenir shop, and even an underground lake where you can row a boat.

Its depth reaches 120 meters, making it the largest human-made mine museum in the world. The temperature inside ranges from 10 to 15 degrees, and any long-sleeved cover will be useful shortly after entering.

*The entrance ticket costs 60 lei, or 750 denars. 

Transalpina

The second most famous route in Romania and among the first in the world. The length of this mountain pass is 140 kilometers, and the highest point it reaches is 2137 meters. Driving through the evergreen forest quickly transitions to driving with wide-open views into the distance; the pleasant temperature will be replaced by the sharp freshness of the air, and the journey to this unknown location will turn into a complete connection with nature. Along the way, you’ll encounter various viewpoints, souvenir stalls, and mountain bars serving traditional food in their recognizable and authentic dishes. Be sure to try Bulz (polenta with cheese and yogurt) and some kind of locally produced meat and cheese.

These seven places are enough for a week-long adventure, but that doesn’t mean the tour can’t be more intense. You can make a schedule for fewer days or, conversely, if you have free time, extend the tour and explore a bit more than what we saw.

We will also add some additional information that might be useful:

• In Romania, you will encounter a language barrier; very few people understand English. Be prepared to communicate through gestures, calculators, drawings, and even Google Translate for more complex topics.

• They have tactics for "tricking" tourists, trying to sell at higher prices, cheating on exchange rates, etc. Be cautious and don’t believe everything you’re told.

• In many of these places, you can’t pay by card, so always have Romanian lei in your pocket.

• Check the working hours and days of each landmark separately before heading there. Sometimes they can be closed.

• The Transfăgărășan Pass is open only for a few months during the summer period. If you’re planning a visit in another season, exclude it from the route.

• Romanian cuisine is known for its cheeses and meat products originating from the mountainous region of the Carpathians. If you have no issues trying new and unfamiliar meals, we recommend you taste their products.

• If you're traveling during hot days, look for accommodation with air conditioning, as most of the offered ones do not have it installed.

• There are fewer accommodation options on the Transfagarasan compared to the Transalpina, which is a winter ski resort.

• If you're traveling from Macedonia, you can reach Bucharest, Romania via Sofia, Bulgaria, or if you’re driving through Serbia, you can take the route Niš – Zaječar – Drobeta-Turnu / Negotin-Vidin, Bulgaria – Craiova. 

• In Serbia, you can take a break in Mica and visit the local winery and restaurant (located right on the road), take a wine tour, and eat traditional food.

• Near Vidin, Bulgaria, you can visit Belogradchik, known for its fortress and the rocks above it.

We wish you a safe and unforgettable journey!

Until the next adventure,

Ana and Mane