Romania Tours & Vacations

July and August are the busiest months for tourists all over Europe because the weather is at its warmest. May and June are some of the best months to visit Romania, followed by September and early October as the weather is usually fine and the sites are less crowded than during peak season. Spring and autumn are considered optimal times for birdwatching in the Danube Delta. Romania has harsh winters, with most tourists choosing to travel to the ski resorts. Snow lingers as late as mid-May, and the hiking season doesn't begin in earnest until June. The resorts along the Black Sea coast get busy in late June and stay packed until mid-August. It tends to rain more in March, April, October and November.

Bordered by Bulgaria, Serbia, Ukraine, Hungary and Moldova, Romania also has a stretch of coastline along the Black Sea. Much of Romania's terrain is mountainous with the Carpathian Mountains and Transylvanian Alps occupying parts of the central and northern regions. Home to a large number of glacial and karstic lakes, rivers and lagoons, Romania's splendid scenery will take many by surprise. Considerable amounts of arable land, orchards, vineyards, rural pastures and farmland are significant features of Romania's countryside.

1. Bran Castle

Possibly Romania's best known castle, Transylvania's Bran Castle is linked to the legend of Dracula, although somewhat tenuously. Regardless, tourists flock in to see the heritage art, historic treasures and secret passages that all good castles are made of. A short trip from Brasov, this interesting attraction should be high on every traveller's list.

2. Hunyad Castle

Watch towers? Check. Drawbridge? Check. Dark History? Check. Hunyad Castle has all the classic hallmarks of a typical European castle. Once the prison of notorious Vlad the Impaler, Hunyad Castle's unique Gothic-Renaissance style is a result of extensive restoration after years of neglect.

3. Fagaras Castle

This ancient fortress and castle may lack the opulence of others, but is worthy of admiration for its enduring powers. Still surrounded by the moat which protected it for centuries, Fagaras Castle is a wonderful example of effective fortification - with enormous walls and towers built to withstand war and invasion.

4. Peles Castle

Nestled within the Carpathian Mountains, this gorgeous castle straight out of a fairytale is the perfect example of palatial bliss. With 30 bathrooms, an impressive collection of fine art, an extensive armour collection, manicured gardens, marble fireplaces and imposing statues, Peles Castle is one of Romania's grandest.

5. Pelisor Castle

Located within the Peles Castle complex, this castle is most famous for its decadent room made of gilded gold. Featuring Art Nouveau-style furnishings and art, plush interiors and an oak panelled lobby, Pelisor Castle certainly works its old-world charm.