GENERAL ROMANIA KNOWLEDGE

LOCATION

Southeastern Central part of Europe

TIME ZONE

GMT+2

AREA

238,391 square km

POPULATION

19,053,815

DENSITY

79.9/km2

LANGUAGE

Romanian

CAPITAL

Bucharest

CURRENCY

The Romanian Leu (RON).

WEATHER

Romania has a climate that is temperate and continental, with four distinct seasons.

SHORT HISTORY

Romania's history is rich and complex, dating back over 2,000 years. The region was originally inhabited by the Dacians, a Thracian people, until they were conquered by the Roman Empire in 106 AD. The Roman presence left a lasting impact on the area, with many ruins and artifacts still visible today.

In the centuries that followed, the region saw a series of invasions and migrations, including by the Goths, Huns, and Avars. In the 13th century, the Romanian principalities of Wallachia and Moldavia emerged, each with its own rulers and distinct culture.

Over the next several centuries, the region came under Ottoman and Habsburg rule, and saw a series of wars and uprisings. In 1859, Wallachia and Moldavia united to form the modern state of Romania, with Bucharest as its capital.

Romania continued to experience upheaval in the 20th century, including World War I and II, and a period of communist rule under Nicolae Ceausescu. Following the fall of communism in 1989, Romania began a process of political and economic reform, and joined the European Union in 2007.

Today, Romania is a modern and diverse country, with a rich cultural heritage and a growing economy. Despite its tumultuous history, Romania remains a fascinating and welcoming destination for travelers.

Entry and visas for Romania

All EU/EEA citizens don't need a visa to travel in Romania. They only need a valid passport or national ID card to enter Romania. Citizens of other countries may need a visa to enter Romania. They should check with the Romanian embassy or consulate in their home country or visit the website of the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs to find out if they need a visa and what documents they need to apply for it.

IS ROMANIA SAFE?

Many people consider Romania – and Eastern European countries in general – as dangerous ones to visit. Well,this is just a mith...

Romania is one of the safest countries in Europe. Its crime rate is low, and most tourists enjoy a stress-free journey in this gorgeous country.

You just need to take the same basic precautions while visiting any other European countries.

COVID '19

There are no COVID-19 restrictions in Romania and you don't need a COVID-19 vaccination certificate or negative COVID-19 test to enter.

TOP Romanian attractions

Romania is a country with a rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural beauty. Here are some of the top places to visit in Romania:

Transylvania: This region is famous for its connections to the legend of Count Dracula, but it also offers stunning medieval cities like Brasov, Sibiu, and Cluj-Napoca, as well as the beautiful Apuseni Mountains.
Maramures: This region in northern Romania is known for its traditional wooden churches, handcrafted folk art, and rural way of life.
Painted Monasteries of Bucovina: These UNESCO World Heritage Sites feature stunning frescoes and paintings on the walls of several medieval Orthodox monasteries.
Peles Castle: This stunning castle located in the mountain town of Sinaia is known for its beautiful architecture and surrounding scenery.
Corvin Castle: This Gothic fortress located in Hunedoara is one of the largest castles in Romania and is known for its imposing towers and impressive history.
Danube Delta: This UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is the second-largest river delta in Europe and offers unique wildlife viewing and outdoor activities like birdwatching and fishing.
Bucharest: Romania's capital city is known for its eclectic mix of architectural styles, including the massive Palace of the Parliament and the elegant French-influenced Old Town.

These are just a few of the many amazing places to visit in Romania, and visitors can easily spend weeks exploring the country's fascinating history, culture, and natural landscapes.

The best time to visit Romania?

The best time to visit Romania depends on what you want to see and do during your trip.

Summer (June-August) is the most popular time to visit Romania, with warm weather and long daylight hours ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and sightseeing. The mountain regions and coastal areas are particularly popular during this time.

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) can also be good times to visit Romania, with mild temperatures and fewer crowds. These seasons are particularly good for exploring the country's cultural and historical sites and enjoying the autumn foliage.

Winter (December-February) can be a beautiful time to visit Romania, with snow-covered landscapes and traditional winter activities such as skiing and snowboarding. The Christmas markets in cities like Bucharest and Sibiu are also a popular attraction during this time.

Overall, the best time to visit Romania depends on your interests and what you want to see and do during your trip.

Getting in

Romania can be easily accessed by air, train, or road. The country has several airports, with Henri Coandă International Airport in Bucharest being the busiest and the main hub for international flights. Other major airports include Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, Iasi and Suceava.

Romania has in general a well-developed railway network, and trains are a popular and inexpensive but they are slow and frequently have delays. The main train stations are in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara,Iasi and Constanta, among others.

For those traveling by car, Romania has an extensive road network that connects it to neighboring countries, including Hungary, Bulgaria, Ukraine, and Serbia. However, it's important to note that the quality of the roads can vary, and drivers should be cautious, especially in rural areas.

Visitors from many countries, including the US, Canada, Australia, and most European countries, can enter Romania without a visa for up to 90 days. However, it's always a good idea to check the latest visa requirements and travel advisories before booking your trip.

Romanian geography, public transport and getting around

The country is almost equally divided geographically into mountains, plains, hills, and plateaus. Apart from a stretch of tableland near the Black Sea coast, Romania's mountainous sector is part of the rugged Carpathian chain.

Public transport in Romania includes buses, trams, trolleybuses, and trains. In Bucharest, the metro system is also available. Public transportation is generally affordable and reliable, although it may be crowded during peak hours in major cities.

Taxis are widely available in Romania, and they are generally affordable, especially outside of major cities. It's recommended to use reputable taxi companies or ride-hailing apps such as Uber or Bolt to avoid scams or overcharging.

Renting a car is also an option for getting around Romania. However, driving in major cities can be challenging due to heavy traffic and lack of parking spaces. It's important to have a valid driver's license, insurance, and to be familiar with local driving laws and regulations.

Bicycles can also be rented in some cities, and bike-sharing programs are available in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and Timisoara.

One of the best options for your trip is hiring a travel guide. This can be a valuable investment for those who want to have a stress-free, enjoyable, and informative travel experience.

Accommodation

Romania offers a variety of accommodation options for travelers, from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to luxurious hotels and resorts. In major cities you can find a range of hotels and apartments to suit your needs and budget. In rural areas and small towns, traditional guesthouses called "pensiune" offer a unique and authentic experience. Additionally, Romania has a thriving Airbnb market with a variety of options, including entire apartments or houses, private rooms, and shared accommodations with prices generally lower than in many other European countries.

PEOPLE

Romania is a diverse country with a population of over 19 million people. The majority of the population is Romanian, but there are also significant ethnic minority groups such as Hungarians, Roma, Germans, and Ukrainians.

Romania has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by its history and the various ethnic groups that have inhabited the region over the centuries. Traditional Romanian customs and folklore are still celebrated today, including folk music, dance, and traditional costumes.

In terms of religion, the majority of Romanians are Eastern Orthodox Christians, but there are also significant numbers of Roman Catholics, Protestants, and Muslims.

Romanians are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness towards visitors. Family values are also highly important in Romanian culture, and many social activities revolve around spending time with family and friends.

LANGUAGE

The official language of Romania is Romanian. Romanian is a Romance language and is closely related to Italian, Spanish, French, and Portuguese. It is spoken by approximately 24-26 million people worldwide, with the majority of speakers living in Romania and Moldova.

The Romanian language uses the Latin alphabet and has five additional letters (ă, â, î, ș, and ț) that are not found in other Romance languages. The language has been influenced by various other languages, including Slavic languages, Turkish, and Hungarian.

Useful Phrases:

Bună dimineața - Good morning
Bună ziua - Good day/afternoon
Bună seara - Good evening
Bună / Salut - Hello or Hi
Noapte bună - Good night
La revedere - Good Bye

Ce faci? - How are you?

Bine - Good

Da / Nu - Yes / No

Mulțumesc / Cu plăcere - Thank you / You’re welcome

Cum te numești? - What’s your name?

Scuze - Excuse me

Noroc - Cheers!

Nu înțeleg - I don’t understand

La stânga / La dreapta - To the left / To the right

Drept înainte - Straight forward

Cât costă? - How much does it cost?

Unu - one ,Doi - two, Trei - three, Patru - four, Cinci - five, Șase - six, Șapte - seven, Opt - eight, Nouă - nine, Zece - ten.

Romanian currency, exchange houses and card payments

The official currency of Romania is the Romanian Leu (RON). While some places may accept euros or other currencies, it's best to have some local currency on hand for everyday purchases.

Exchange houses can be found in almost all cities and towns in Romania. It's recommended to exchange money at reputable exchange offices or banks, as rates and fees can vary. It's also important to check the exchange rate before exchanging money to avoid scams or unfair rates.

Card payments are widely accepted in most major cities and tourist destinations in Romania. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted credit cards, but some places may not accept American Express or Discover. It's also recommended to notify your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with card usage.

ATMs are available throughout Romania, and many accept international cards. However, it's important to check with your bank for any fees or restrictions on international withdrawals.

At the end ,we recommended to have a mix of cash and card payments when traveling to Romania.

FOOD

Romanian cuisine is diverse, flavorful, and influenced by various cultures, including Turkish, Hungarian, German, and Slavic. Here are some popular Romanian dishes you may want to try:

Sarmale - stuffed cabbage rolls filled with a mixture of minced pork, beef, and rice, seasoned with onion, garlic, and tomato sauce.
Mici - small grilled sausages made from a combination of minced pork, beef, and lamb, flavored with garlic and served with mustard.
Ciorbă de Burtă - a soup made from beef tripe, vegetables, and sour cream.
Mămăligă - a polenta-like dish made from cornmeal, served as a side dish with various meat or vegetable stews.
Zacuscă - a vegetable spread made from roasted eggplant and red peppers, seasoned with garlic and tomato sauce.
Cozonac - a sweet bread similar to a brioche, filled with nuts, poppy seeds, or chocolate, and typically served during holidays.
Papanași - a dessert made of fried or boiled dough filled with sweet cheese, served with sour cream and jam.

These are just a few of the many delicious Romanian dishes you can try. Don't forget to pair your meal with a glass of traditional Romanian wine or tuica, a strong plum brandy.

Emergencies,health servicies and insurance in Romania

Emergencies, health services and insurance

In case of emergencies in Romania, dial 112 to contact the emergency services. The service is available 24/7 and is free of charge.

Romania has a public healthcare system that provides free or low-cost medical care to Romanian citizens and EU nationals with a valid European Health Insurance Card.

It is recommended that visitors to Romania purchase travel health insurance that covers medical expenses and emergency evacuation. Private healthcare facilities are available in Romania, and they often provide better quality care and shorter wait times than public hospitals. However, private healthcare can be expensive, so having travel health insurance is essential.

Pharmacies are widely available in Romania, and many medications are available over the counter without a prescription. In case of a medical emergency, it is recommended to contact your embassy or consulate in Romania for assistance and guidance.

INTERNET

Romania has one of the fastest and most affordable internet services in Europe. According to data from Speedtest.net in 2021, Romania ranks 10th in the world for internet speed, with an average download speed of 140 Mbps and an average upload speed of 73 Mbps. This speed is due to the fact that Romania has invested heavily in its digital infrastructure over the past decade.

Moreover, internet access is widely available and affordable in Romania, with various internet service providers offering competitive prices for their services. Many cafes, restaurants, and public places offer free Wi-Fi, making it easy to stay connected while on the go.

ROAD TRIP IN ROMANIA

Romania is a great destination for a road trip, with stunning natural scenery, charming small towns, and a rich history and culture to explore. Some of the best routes for a road trip in Romania include the Transfagarasan Highway through the Carpathian Mountains the route between Brasov and Sighisoara, and the winding roads through the Apuseni Mountains in the north. Visitors can also explore the many traditional villages and historic landmarks scattered throughout the countryside in Transylvania,Maramures and Bucovina regions, as well as the vibrant cities of Bucharest,Sibiu, Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara and Iasi. With a generally well-maintained roads, affordable fuel prices, and plenty of accommodations and dining options. A road trip in Romania is a great way to experience all that this fascinating country has to offer.

RESPONSIBLE TOURISM IN ROMANIA

Responsible tourism in Romania involves respecting the country's natural and cultural heritage, supporting local communities, reducing plastic use, minimizing environmental impact, and leaving no trace. By practicing responsible tourism, visitors can help preserve Romania's unique landscapes and cultural traditions while supporting local economies and reducing the negative impacts of tourism.