Discovering Romania — A Journey Through History, Nature, and Heartfelt Hospitality
When I first landed in Romania, I expected medieval castles, folklore, and a dash of mystery. What I didn’t expect was how deeply the country would feel — how its history, landscapes, and people would linger long after my return home. Romania is not a place you simply visit; it’s one you experience with all your senses.
Bucharest: The Bold Beginning
My Romanian adventure began in Bucharest, a city that’s equal parts grand and gritty. Strolling down Calea Victoriei, I found myself surrounded by Belle Époque facades and lively cafés where locals debated politics over tiny cups of strong coffee. The city’s architecture is an eclectic mix — French-inspired mansions stand beside brutalist apartment blocks, and just around the corner, you’ll stumble upon art galleries and jazz clubs humming with creative energy.
The Palace of Parliament, a colossal reminder of the Ceaușescu era, dominates the skyline. But beyond the politics and history, Bucharest surprised me with its warmth — taxi drivers who insisted on telling me stories, and restaurant owners who poured an extra glass of țuică “just because.”
Into the Heart of Transylvania
Leaving Bucharest behind, I headed north toward Transylvania — a name that conjures images of mist-shrouded castles and vampires, but what I found was far more authentic and compelling. The region’s beauty lies in its contrasts: Saxon villages with fortified churches, cobblestoned medieval towns like Brașov and Sighișoara, and mountain landscapes that feel untouched by time.
In Viscri, I stayed in a centuries-old house restored with care and simplicity. There was no Wi-Fi, no television, and no hurry — just the rhythm of village life: cows returning from pasture, children playing in dusty streets, and the scent of wood smoke in the evening. It was here that I understood why Balkan Trails emphasizes local connections and slow travel. Romania isn’t meant to be rushed; it’s meant to be felt.
Sighișoara: Where Legends Live
Few places capture Romania’s medieval charm like Sighișoara, the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler. Walking through its pastel-colored citadel, I imagined the life of merchants, craftsmen, and soldiers who once filled these narrow lanes. As night fell, the cobblestones glistened under the lamplight, and a violinist played softly in the square — a perfect soundtrack for the town’s haunting beauty.
Nature Beyond the Castles
Romania’s natural landscapes are as captivating as its cities. I drove through the Transfăgărășan Highway — often called one of the most spectacular roads in the world — winding through the Făgăraș Mountains, past glacial lakes and alpine meadows. In the Maramureș region, wooden churches stand like time capsules, their shingled spires pointing heavenward.
And then there’s the Danube Delta — a labyrinth of waterways, reed beds, and floating villages. Watching pelicans soar at sunset, I realized that Romania’s wild heart still beats strong.
Why Romania Belongs on Every Traveler’s List
What makes Romania unforgettable isn’t just the castles or mountains — it’s the spirit of the people. There’s a humility and generosity that feels genuine. Locals still take pride in sharing their culture, their food, their stories. It’s a country where you’re not just a visitor but a welcome guest.
If you’re planning to explore this fascinating destination, I highly recommend looking into professionally curated Romania tours that balance comfort with authentic local experiences. Whether it’s a journey through Transylvania’s medieval towns or a rural escape into traditional villages, the right guide can reveal the Romania that most travelers miss.
Romania is a land of depth — of layered history, living traditions, and openhearted people. And once you’ve been, a part of you will always want to return.