International Travel Guide to Romania in 2024

Romania offers several types of visas depending on the purpose and duration of stay. The main visa categories include short-stay visas (Type C) for tourism, business, or family visits, which allow stays up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Long-stay visas (Type D) cater to those intending to stay in Romania for more than 90 days for purposes such as work, study, or family reunification. Transit visas (Type A/B) are available for individuals passing through Romania en route to another destination. Romania is not part of the Schengen Area, so a Romanian visa does not grant entry to Schengen countries. Applicants generally need to submit a completed application form, passport-sized photos, proof of travel insurance, financial means, and an invitation letter or proof of accommodation, depending on the visa type.

The best time to visit Romania is typically from late spring (May) to early autumn (September). This period offers mild weather suitable for various outdoor activities such as hiking in the Carpathian Mountains or exploring the medieval castles and fortified churches scattered across the country. Summer months (June to August) offer ideal weather for beach vacations along the Black Sea coast while still enjoying the cultural festivals and vibrant nightlife in cities like Bucharest, Brasov, and Sibiu. If you're a winter sports enthusiast, visiting from December to February will allow you to experience the snow-covered landscapes and skiing opportunities in the Carpathians.

A comprehensive trip to Romania typically requires around 10 to 14 days to fully appreciate its diverse attractions. This duration allows you to explore major cities such as Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and Iași, delve into Transylvanian towns like Brasov, Sibiu, and Sighisoara, as well as spend time in the natural landscapes of the Danube Delta or the Carpathian Mountains. Shorter trips of 5 to 7 days can give you a good overview of one region, such as Transylvania or the capital city Bucharest.

Romania is generally an affordable travel destination compared to Western European countries. Budget travelers can get by with $50 to $70 per day, which covers accommodation in budget hotels or hostels, local transport, food, and entrance fees to major attractions. A mid-range traveler might spend between $70 to $150 daily for better accommodations, a mix of local eateries and nicer restaurants, and potentially guided tours. If you prefer luxury, a daily budget of $150 to $300 should suffice for high-end hotels, fine dining, and private tours.

Packing for Romania depends largely on the season of your travel. Regardless of when you visit, make sure to bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring cobblestone streets and hiking trails. In warmer months, lightweight clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are essential. For cooler times or mountain regions, pack layers, a warm jacket, hat, and gloves. Don't forget your travel adapters for Romanian outlets (Type F plugs), a reusable water bottle, a good-quality camera for the stunning landscapes, and any necessary medications. A small travel umbrella or raincoat is also wise, as the weather can be unpredictable, especially in the mountains.

Romania operates on Eastern European Time (EET) during the winter (UTC+02:00) and Eastern European Summer Time (EEST) during the summer (UTC+03:00).