There are many reasons to visit Romania. This large country in eastern Europe is a seriously underrated travel destination and is home to rich history and culture, awe-inspiring nature, and stunning architecture.
Romania is consistently ranked as one of the cheapest travel destinations in the whole of Europe. However, don’t think that this makes it second best—there is so much to do and see in Romania, whatever your interests!
Nature
From lush green forests to awe-inspiring snow-capped mountain ranges, nature lovers will find no shortage of inspiration in Romania. Unlike other Eastern-European countries, there are beautiful beaches where the country borders the Black Sea, and the stunning Danube delta is a sight to behold. If you are feeling adventurous, you can hike the Carpathian Mountains, or visit the world’s only underground theme park at the Turda salt mine. The Bigar waterfall is one of the most breath-taking waterfalls in Europe, and the Scarisoara glacier is a gorgeous underground ice cavern. Romania is the most biodiverse country in Europe, and you can tell!
This biodiversity also means that the country is home to a huge variety of wildlife. The forests are home to galloping deer, prowling wolves and lynx, and the European Union’s largest population of brown bears. Majestic bison roam on reservations, and the Danube Delta is home to many species of bird.
History
Few countries in the world have a history as rich and varied as Romania. The country is home to eight World Heritage sites, such as the Moldavian painted churches, the Monastery of Horezu, and the fortified churches of Transylvania (made famous by Bram Stoker’s novel Dracula). The architecture in Romania ranges from gothic and ornate to quaint, to the brutalist modernism of the Stalinist era.
Romania has been at the center of history many times, with major European conflicts resulting in a diverse mix of cultures and influences.
Culture
The culture of Romania is both historically rich and diverse. With many traditions that date back centuries, you are sure to discover an authentic sense of history in Romania. With folk culture and religious customs being an important part of life, you can hear carols and feast at Christmas and enjoy a traditional Sunday Dinner at Easter.
Romanian culture is welcoming to travelers, and you’ll be made to feel right at home. If you get the chance to enjoy traditional Romanian hospitality, you will discover that their homemade cuisine is as diverse as it is tasty,
The arts and crafts are highly respected in Romania, and people of all ages and walks of life participate in various artistic and cultural traditions, such as knitting blouses and painting eggs at Easter. There are many festivals in the country, from small traditional village festivals to celebrate certain foods, to internationally acclaimed music festivals where you can hear genres from classical to electronic.
Romania is often overlooked as a travel destination, but those who decide to explore it will tell you just how amazing it can be!