See the best of beautiful Transylvania, Romania in one week
There is a poetic beauty to Transylvania that few places in the world can surpass. Shrouded in mystery and vampire-driven legends, yet full of fairytale-like medieval villages, Gothic castles, fortified churches and the stunning snow-capped Carpathian Mountains.
The historic region of Transylvania occupies much of central Romania. You would literally need a couple of weeks to cover all that Transylvania has to offer comprehensively – and much longer to see all of Romania, from the painted monasteries in the north to the Black Sea beach resorts.
Our road trip itinerary will take you on a circular trip from Bucharest, around many of Transylvania’s most famous landmarks in one week.
This is by far a comprehensive guide to Romania. I was only there for one week but have included in the footnotes extra itinerary items and resources that you might find helpful in planning your own more extensive Romanian adventure.
This post is part of our European Destinations series
Things to know before visiting Transylvania, Romania
Language in Romania
The main language is Romanian – a Latin root route language used in Romania and Moldova making it relatively easy to interpret if you are familiar with other western European languages. English is quite widely spoken or at least understood, especially in tourist establishments.
Currency in Romania
The currency is Romanian Lei – written RON. Despite EUR often being quoted, only Lei is accepted. You can readily find ATM’s and all but the smallest of shops, cafes or tourist sites will also accept credit card. As a rough conversion guide:
- 5 RON = 1 GBP
- 4.5 RON = 1 EUR
- 4 RON = 1USD
- 1 RON = 1AED (Note no currency exchanges in the UAE seem to readily stock it, you’ll be relying on ATMs)
It is not a commonly stocked currency in many countries so you may need to order in. Don’t pay exorbitant airport currency exchange fees, the ATMs are just after you collect your bags at the airport.
Power and adaptors in Romania
You will need European Type C 2 round-pin plugs or international adaptors.
Car Hire
If you are hiring a car in Bucharest, there are plentiful options only a short shuttle from OTP (but be mindful that parking in the city centre might be tight). It’s quite easy to pick up a budget car rental in Europe. Alternatively, you can pick up at a city depot such as Avis at the Intercon. Check available car hire locations here:
