Culture & Travel
16 October 2024Nestled at the foot of the Carpathian Mountains, Romania is a country filled with breathtaking natural beauty and a rich cultural heritage, making it one of Europe’s most captivating destinations. Known for its medieval cities, Gothic and Baroque architecture, vibrant villages, and mystical castles, Romania is a paradise for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Curious about which cities in Romania are worth exploring? We’ve got the answers in our list below.
1. Brașov
At the top of the list is Brașov, a city renowned for its history and natural beauty, and one of Romania’s most popular tourist destinations. With its Gothic churches and medieval charm, Brașov has long been a favorite stop for visitors. Its picturesque squares and stunning mountain views make it a must-see for anyone traveling to Romania.
We recommend starting your exploration in Council Square, the heart of the city. Surrounded by cafés, it’s a great spot to take in the atmosphere, with landmarks like the iconic Black Church (Biserica Neagră) nearby. For a bit of nature, head to Tampa Mountain, just outside the city, where you can hike and take in panoramic views from the cable car.
Brașov is also close to the famed Bran Castle—known as Dracula’s Castle—which has helped put Romania on the map. Many tourists begin their journey to explore Transylvania’s mysterious castles from Brașov, just 30 kilometers away.
2. Sibiu
Did you know that Romania has a city that was once named the European Capital of Culture? Sibiu, located in the Transylvania region, is a city full of narrow medieval streets, Gothic cathedrals, and colorful houses. It offers a unique atmosphere while also serving as a hub for cultural and artistic events.
Sibiu’s rich history is best experienced in its two main squares: The Large Square (Piața Mare) and The Small Square (Piața Mică). These bustling areas are home to art galleries, restaurants, and cafés, and also feature the Brukenthal Museum, one of Romania’s oldest and most prestigious art collections.
The city’s famous walking paths, lined with medieval architecture, make strolling through Sibiu feel like stepping back in time.
3. Cluj-Napoca
As Romania’s second-largest city, Cluj-Napoca is also a major cultural and academic center. With its vibrant student population, the city is one of the liveliest in Romania, known for its energetic social scene and numerous festivals. A prime example is the world-renowned UNTOLD Festival, which draws music lovers from all corners of the globe.
Landmarks like the Matthias Corvinus Statue and Saint Michael’s Church stand out as fine examples of Gothic architecture in Cluj-Napoca. The city also boasts other tourist hotspots like Cluj Castle and the Botanical Garden, which add to its charm.
4. Sighișoara
When we think of Romania, images of medieval architecture, narrow cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and a fairytale-like atmosphere come to mind, right? Sighișoara perfectly matches this picture. This UNESCO World Heritage city is not only famous for being the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler (the real-life inspiration for Dracula) but is also one of the most enchanting cities in all of Romania.
The Clock Tower (Turnul cu Ceas) is one of the city's most significant landmarks, offering panoramic views of the area. Afterward, take a step back in time with a visit to the historic Sighișoara Citadel.
Sighișoara’s most famous event is the annual Medieval Festival, where the city transforms with traditional costumes, local music, and spectacular performances, offering visitors a true taste of Romania’s medieval charm.
5. Bucharest
Romania’s capital, Bucharest, is a fascinating blend of modern structures and historical heritage. It’s home to the Palace of Parliament (Palatul Parlamentului), the second-largest administrative building in the world, and is filled with numerous parks, museums, and art galleries.
In the heart of Bucharest, the Old Town (Centrul Vechi) contrasts the city’s more contemporary side, allowing visitors to dive into Romania’s rich history. The city also has a lively social scene, particularly in this area.
For those looking to enjoy nature, Herastrau Park and Kretzulescu Church are ideal places to explore the cultural and natural beauty that Bucharest offers.
6. Timișoara
Last but certainly not least is the stunning city of Timișoara, known as "Little Vienna" for its Baroque architecture, spacious squares, colorful buildings, and vibrant cultural life. Timișoara is also significant as the place where the Romanian Revolution began.
After being selected as the European Capital of Culture for 2021, the city has become a focal point for cultural events, making it a haven for lovers of art, music, and theater. Throughout the year, Timișoara hosts many artistic festivals and events.
When visiting this gem of a city, make sure to stop by Union Square (Piața Unirii), where you’ll find architectural marvels like the Catholic Cathedral and the Serbian Orthodox Cathedral. Victory Square (Piața Victoriei) is another must-see, as it’s the center of the city’s social life.
Today, we’ve taken you through six of our favorite cities in Romania. From medieval relics to modern urban experiences, Romania offers a wealth of cultural, historical, and natural beauty waiting to be explored.
