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Traveling with Minor Children: Exit Requirements in Romania

Table of Contents

If you’re planning on  traveling with minor children outside of Romania , it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the  legal requirements .

Romanian authorities enforce stringent rules to ensure the safety and welfare of their youngest citizens while traveling.

Understanding these regulations will allow for a smooth and hassle-free travel experience while adhering to all necessary  immigration regulations  and  border control  protocols.

In order to facilitate  international travel with Romanian minors , parents or legal guardians should be aware of the necessary  travel documents  required both for exit and entry purposes.

Not only do these measures ensure the child’s safety, but they also conform to international regulations governing the travel of children.

Key Takeaways

• Romanian authorities enforce strict regulations for traveling with minor children.
• Understanding Romanian law is crucial for smooth navigation of immigration and border controls.
• An awareness of required  travel documents  is necessary for  international travel with Romanian minors.
• Adherence to safety measures ensures a hassle-free travel experience.
• Preparation and proper documentation can prevent potential travel disruptions.

Understanding Romania’s Legal Framework for Minor Travel

Traveling with a minor is no small feat, especially when you’re up against legal nuances and formal requirements.

A crucial piece of the jigsaw is understanding Romanian laws that regulate minors traveling abroad. Let’s explore Law No. 248/2005 and the significance of  parental consent  in minor travel.

Overview of Law no 248/2005

At the core of  legal requirements for traveling with Romanian minors  lies Law No. 248/2005.

This law mandates that Romanian minors under the age of 18 must possess individual  travel documents .

Additionally, it calls for clear  parental consent  for international travel.

Depending on the traveling dynamics, a declaration from the non-accompanying parent(s) or proof of sole custody may also be necessary.

If a minor is traveling with an adult who isn’t their parent, a  notarized letter  from both parents is obligatory, highlighting the companion’s details along with the plan of the journey.

The Role of Parental Consent in Minor Travel

Parental consent  is an integral part of  Romanian minor travel regulations .

The consent must be all-encompassing, specifying the destination, duration, and purpose of the trip.

It should also include the details of the custodian abroad if the minor isn’t returning to Romania with the person they left with.

It’s not about ticking off a checklist, but about ensuring the welfare and safety of the minor throughout their journey.

These rules are not to tie you down, but to provide a  travel authorization  with the best interest of the child in mind.

The Essential Travel Documents for Romanian Minors

Traveling abroad with Romanian children involves understanding Romania’s stringent travel laws.

While this may be tiresome, it is essential to note that it serves as a protection measure for the children.

Let’s delve in and unpack the primary documents needed for a smooth, stress-free journey.

Passports and ID Cards for International Travel

One of the significant  travel documents  required by Romanian minors for international journeys is a valid  passport  or ID card.

From a legal standpoint, these two pieces of documentation are indispensable as they authenticate the identity of the minor at checks.

For Romanian children traveling abroad, issuing a  passport  becomes a crucial starting point, ensuring the minor’s identification isn’t compromised at any international checkpoint.

Notarized Consent Letters: When and Why?

A common scenario during travel involves minors accompanied by a single parent or an adult who isn’t their legal guardian.

In these situations, a notarized  consent letter  from legally authorized individuals proves pivotal in satisfying the travel framework.

This  consent letter  serves as an endorsement for the minor’s travel specifics, bearing the duration and purpose of the trip, as well as the assigned adult companion’s details.

At the heart of these travel document requirements lie both the welfare and safety of the children.

Thus, anyone planning a trip with a Romanian minor must familiarize themselves with these provisions, to make their experience hassle-free and compliant with all Romanian travel regulations.

Scenarios for Travelling with a Romanian Minor Child Outside of Romania

When  traveling with a Romanian minor without a parent , multiple circumstances must be considered.

These different scenarios require distinct documentation reflecting the traveling conditions per Romanian laws.

Each situation that involves  traveling abroad with Romanian minors  can drastically differ, and as a result, is guided by respective requirements:

• Traveling with both parents
• Traveling with one parent
• Traveling with an adult, who is not a parent.

Consider the following scenarios:

Knowing the  entry and exit requirements for Romanian minors  is imperative.

It ensures the minor’s safety, compliance with the legal system, and most importantly, a smooth and hassle-free journey.

Preparation is key in these situations, and understanding these requirements becomes a guardian’s responsibility when traveling with Romanian minor children.

Procedures for Obtaining Consent and Notarization

Traveling with a Romanian minor abroad entails a certain process to ensure legal compliance.

A critical component of these procedures, as stated in Romanian travel regulations, involves obtaining proper consent and  notarization .

This aims at protecting the minor’s well-being and rights during their international travel.

Visiting a Civil-Law Notary Office

One of the initial steps of the journey commences at a civil-law notary office.

When you visit this office, you must have detailed information prepared about your planned trip with a Romanian minor.

A declaration of consent prepared before the notary must comprehensively encompass the minor’s full name, date of birth,  passport  number, travel dates, purpose, destination(s), and your relationship to the minor.

In addition, the document should provide comprehensive particulars of the adult traveling with the minor.

The Apostille and Legalization Process

Post- notarization  of the consent, the procedure may demand further  legalization.

This primarily depends on the regulations of the destination country.

Several countries recognize the Hague  Apostille , which validates the notarized consent declaration for international use without further  legalization.

Conversely, some nations seek full legalization by their embassy after the  Apostille .

Thus, it becomes crucial to inquire and comprehend the specific requirements of your destination country to streamline your travel preparations for a Romanian minor.

Consider these procedures as a necessary step ensuring a smoother journey, and factoring in these  legal regulations for traveling with Romanian minors  can contribute to a hassle-free experience.

International Transit: Ensuring Compliance Beyond Romania

Navigating the international travel landscape with  Romanian minors .

While Romania has outlined certain requirements for minors leaving its borders, it’s important to remember that transit and destination countries may hold their own set of rules.

This often includes airline-specific documentation or transit forms specifically for minors.

Your diligence towards these nuances could be the deciding factor between a smooth journey and unexpected hurdles at various checkpoints.

Knowing the processes involved can also save you from unwanted surprises and last-minute panic.

Here are two essential considerations regarding international transit with Romanian minors:

• Transit Countries Regulations:  Any country that your journey involves could potentially require additional paperwork or have specific entry/exit rules for minors. Whether it’s a country you’re briefly stopping over at or your final destination, it’s vital to get informed about these rules well in advance.
• Airline Policies:  Similarly, different airlines may have distinct policies when it comes to traveling with minors. Some may need additional proof or consent forms, while others might have age restrictions or require a designated escort. Be sure to contact your airlines and get a thorough understanding of their guidelines.

Adhering to the  travel requirements  for Romanian minors beyond Romanian borders may seem daunting, but adequate preparation can ease the process significantly.

Being well-informed about the documentation for travelling with Romanian minors can lead to a stress-free travel experience.

Always remember, a smart traveler is one who is well-prepared, well-informed and compliant with international travel norms.

Special Considerations for Solo and One-Parent Travel

When  traveling abroad with Romanian minors , whether the child is alone or accompanied by just one parent or a guardian, there are additional considerations to make to ensure a smooth journey.

Worth noting is the importance of securing parental consent for international travel with Romanian minors, especially if they are traveling alone or with someone who isn’t their legal guardian.

Departing Alone or with One Parent

When a Romanian minor is traveling alone or with only one parent, a notarized declaration of consent from the other parent is often required.

The declaration affirms that the absent party has given their permission for the minor to travel.

It’s essential to understand the specific requirements for this declaration, as a lack of compliance could lead to complications at immigration checkpoints.

Accompanying Adults Who Are Not Legal Guardians

It’s not uncommon for a minor to travel with an adult who isn’t their parent. In this scenario, even stricter protocols exist.

The accompanying adult must have a notarized declaration of consent from both parents or the minor’s legal guardian.

This document validates the caregiver’s authority to accompany the child during travel.

Remember, requirements may vary in distinct countries and airlines.

Thus, it’s advisable to thoroughly understand the required forms and requirements necessary for such travel situations.

Consult with Romanian legal experts to ensure successful compliance with these stipulations when  traveling with minors from Romania .

Air Travel Specifics: Airline Policies and Practices

When it comes to international travel, being informed about each airline’s specific regulations and practices regarding minor passengers is essential.

Knowing your chosen airline’s policies in advance can avoid last-minute hiccups and ensure a smooth transition from ground to air.

Checking with Airlines Before Departure

Each airline may have unique requirements and specific forms needed for minor passengers, especially when not accompanied by both parents.

Apart from the generically required  travel documentation for Romanian children , these requirements could involve informing the airline of the minor’s travel or filling out specialized consent forms.

Making such proactivity a part of your  travel tips for Romanian parents with minor children  can significantly ease the journey forward.

Dealing with Last-minute Policy Changes

It’s important to stay updated about any policy revisions in your chosen airline.

These changes can be unexpected and last-minute, but they can cause significant disruptions to travel plans if not swiftly addressed.

Having a channel for timely updates on  airline policies  is hence crucial.

By ensuring your child’s travel documentation fully adheres to  airline policies , parents minimize the risk of travel disruptions and consequently make the journey more relaxed for all involved.

Entry and Exit Requirements for Romanian Minors

International travel with Romanian children  involves more than just planning your itinerary. In compliance with the rigorous legal structure of Romania and foreign nations, it’s essential to understand the passport,  visa , and entry-exit requirements for Romanian minors.

This will help ensure a smooth, hassle-free travel experience.

Let’s delve into the specifics.

Passport Validity and Schengen Area Transit

Irrespective of their age, Romanian children are required to have individual travel documents.

Their passports must have a validity that extends beyond their travel dates.

This is especially crucial if you’re journeying through or to countries in the Schengen Area.

The Schengen regulations require passports to be valid for at least three months beyond the planned departure date from the Schengen area.

Remember, each country might have additional demands regarding passport validity.

U.S. Citizens and Dual Nationals: Special Rules

In the case of U.S. citizens or dual nationals traveling with Romanian children, specific guidelines need to be addressed.

As per Romanian and U.S regulations for international travel, consent from both parents or guardians is essential for Romanian minors. In situations where one or both parents are U.S. citizens, US law may also apply, especially if the child holds dual nationality.

Therefore, ensuring comprehension of the specific entry and exit rules for such cases can facilitate a smoother journey.

Lastly, ensure that all of these requirements are met ahead of time to allow for any unexpected situations.

Bear in mind, vigilance and preparedness are key to ensuring unhindered  international travel with Romanian minors.  Safe travels!

Overstays and Legal Consequences in Romania

Understanding the implications of overstaying and the penalties that come with it is crucial when planning travel.

It’s imperative to be aware that overstaying can result in severe  legal consequences , such as fines, exit permits and  re-entry bans , and it can impact your travel experiences to Romania in the future.

This section provides some essential tips for parents of Romanian minors abroad, highlighting the  immigration regulations  related to overstaying.

Here is an overview to help you navigate potential situations and learn how to respond accordingly.

Exit Permits and Fines for Overstaying

The first step in understanding the implications of overstaying involves recognizing that exiting the country after your  visa  has expired is not as simple as just booking a flight and leaving.

Overstays  are met with potential penalties such as fines that must be settled before you can exit Romania.

While planning your stay and even during your time in the country, it’s wise to stay vigilant and keep track of the duration of your visa.

Once you’ve overstayed, an exit permit from the Romanian Immigration Office will be demanded. This permit can be a proof of penalty paid as well as a formality to maintain record-keeping.

Re-entry Bans and Appeals

Violating the terms of your visa might result not only in fines but also in  re-entry bans .

The latter is even more daunting, as it can limit your travels to Romania for a certain period of time.

The imposing of  re-entry bans  is a legally-mandated consequence, meant to serve as a deterrent for future visa violations.

However, waivers can be appealed in particular circumstances by providing reliable reasons for the inability to comply with stay duration requirements, such as unforeseen medical emergencies or delayed documentation.

Stay aware, stay informed, and most importantly, respect the  immigration regulations  of the country you are visiting.

Traveling should be an exciting and enjoyable experience, not marred by avoidable legal hassles. Understand the laws, follow them carefully, and ensure a smooth, unforgettable journey.

Your travel stories should be full of adventures and discoveries, not  overstays  or legal troubles.

Ensuring Smooth International Travel with Romanian Minors

Traveling with minor children requires meticulous planning, especially when it comes to adhering to strict  legal requirements .

This is particularly pertinent when it comes to Romanian parents traveling with their minor children.

On top of packing essentials and planning out the travel itinerary, understanding specific  travel protocols for Romanian minors  is equally crucial.

The Romanian law stipulates specific requirements for minors leaving the country, including having the necessary travel documentation and obtaining proper parental consent.

Failures to adhere to these regulations not only risk inconveniences at the  border control  but can also result in  legal consequences .

Hence, you must understand these requirements in detail and take necessary action before departure.

Here are a few  travel tips for Romanian parents with minor children  that can guide you:

• Secure Travel Documents:  Ensure children have valid passports or ID cards for international travel.
• Obtain Parental Consent:  If the child is traveling with one parent or an adult who is not the legal guardian, a notarized consent letter from the non-accompanying parent(s) or legal guardian(s) is necessary.
• Consult Romanian Lawyers:  For more complex situations or if you have any doubts, consult professional  Romanian lawyers  or a trusted  Romanian law office  for guidance. They can help ensure you’re adhering strictly to Romanian travel regulations for minors.

In conclusion, every detail matters when preparing for international travel with Romanian minor children.

By following these essential travel tips, you’ll be setting the stage for a smooth, stress-free journey.

Consultation with Romanian Law Offices

In consultation with a  Romanian lawyer , you’ll review all necessary procedures, ensuring you’re not only aware of them but also understand how to execute them effectively.

Discrepancies or misunderstandings of the legal framework for minor travel can lead to unpleasant circumstances like interjected journeys or legal implications.

But with a competent  Romanian law office  guiding you, these potential roadblocks can be effectively mitigated, if not altogether avoided.

Travel With Romanian Minors – FAQ

1. what are the entry and exit requirements for minors traveling from romania.

When traveling from Romania , Romanian minors are required to possess a valid travel document , typically a passport .

Additionally, they may need to adhere to specific regulations set forth by the Romanian border police as well as the authorities of the destination country.

It’s important to research the entry and exit requirements for  Romanian citizens traveling abroad to ensure a smooth journey.

2. Can a minor child leave Romania without being accompanied by a parent or legal representative?

In general, unaccompanied minors may face restrictions when attempting to leave Romania and may be required to obtain special permissions, such as a notarized declaration from the other parent or legal guardian.

It’s essential to be aware of the specific regulations pertaining to children traveling alone from Romania and ensure compliance with all necessary requirements.

3. What is the process for one parent to travel abroad with a Romanian minor ?

When one of the parents intends to travel abroad with a Romanian minor , they may need to provide consent of the other parent or legal guardian.

This consent could involve notarization or other formal procedures, and it’s essential to understand and fulfill all relevant requirements before departure.

4. What are the regulations for minors traveling within the Schengen Area ?

Minors traveling within the Schengen Area may need to comply with specific regulations, which can include providing consent of parents , a notarized document, or other forms of approval.

Additionally, there may be restrictions on  unaccompanied minors entering or leaving the Schengen Area , so it’s crucial to be well-informed about the applicable laws.

2 Week Romania Itinerary: A Road Trip in Romania with Kids

If you’re dreaming about taking a road trip in Romania, this 2 week Romania itinerary is the post for you!

Romania is an incredible country and one that is well deserving of a visit! Whether you only have a week to explore the country or you have the luxury of two or three weeks, Romania will not disappoint!

With medieval castles and cities, spectacular scenery and a unique history, there’s something for everyone. Romania is sure to surprise you and is definitely worth a visit!

This 2 week Romania itinerary highlights some of the best places to visit in Romania. While I’m sure there are many more amazing places to see in the country, this Romania road trip will give you a glimpse of how amazing the country really is!

(And if you’re like us, you’ll want to come back and visit again!)

In this post, we’ll outline our 2 week Romania itinerary and provide some suggestions on what to see in each place. We crammed a LOT of places into our two week, so if you prefer to travel slower or are using public transportation, you might want to leave out some places (at the bottom of this post, we have a suggestion for a week’s itinerary).

And although I travel with kids – the ‘we’ that I mention – it’s definitely not a kid-focused itinerary and it’s perfect for anyone!

This post contains affiliate links. If you click on these links to purchase something, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you! Please read the disclosure for more info.

Romania was our first stop on a two month trip to Eastern Europe this fall. I had always wanted to see Romania in the fall, specifically in October. We lucked out and the weather was fantastic for most of our time there. We rented a car for two weeks and drove around the country, starting and ending in Bucharest. The road trip took us two weeks to do, but you could easily stretch this itinerary to three weeks (or more!). With a car we had the luxury of leaving when we wanted which definitely saved some time by not having to wait around for other transportation. The trains are said to be slow in Romania, but it is possible to visit most of the places on our itinerary without a car (the exception being Breb and the Maramures).

How to Start your Road Trip in Romania

Chances are you’re arriving in Bucharest, if you’re flying into Romania. Flights also arrive in Cluj-Napoca from other European countries. If you are, just hop onto our itinerary from there!

The Bucharest airport is located in Otopeni, a few kilometres north of Bucharest. There are a few decent hotels near the airport, which is good to consider depending when your flight lands. Originally we had plans to drive north straight from the airport, but at the last minute we booked a hotel close to the airport, which turned out to be a good thing, as our flight was delayed, then re-routed and we ended up arriving in Bucharest over six hours after we were scheduled to, close to midnight.

>>If you’re renting a car, this is a good place to pick up your car!

Romania Itinerary at a Glance:

Day 1-2: Brasov Day 3-4: Sighisoara Day 5: Sighetu Marmatiei Day 6-7: Breb Day 8: Cluj Day 9-10: Sibiu Day 11: Transfagarasan Day 12: Bran Castle (1/2 Day) Day 12-14: Bucharest

Highlights from our 2 Week Romania Itinerary

Our first stop was in Braşov , about 2.5 hours from Otopeni airport. We had rented a car for our two weeks in Romania, which allowed us to see way more than we would have taking public transport. I had been warned about the driving in Romania (that it was slightly crazy) but honestly, I didn’t find a problem! Traffic in the cities is definitely trickier, but still not a problem. Outside of the city, watch for tractors and horse-carts and enjoy the scenery! 

Braşov was absolutely lovely. We spent two nights there and easily could have spent more (we lost over a full day with our flight delays). If you have wiggle room in your itinerary, I’d suggest adding a day or two here. There is lots to do, both in and around the city. You can also take a day trip to Bran Castle and Rasanov Fortress, which  are close to Brasov, but we opted to do those at the end of our trip, on the way back to Bucharest.

Highlights of Brasov:

• The Old Town
• Piata Sfatului, the main square
• Tampa Mountain
• Day trip to Bran Castle and Rasanov Fortress

Leaving Brasov, we headed northwest to Sighişoara . Google maps says it’s just under two hours, but I found Google always slightly underestimated the time it would take on Romanian roads. 

Sighişoara is known for its’ pretty pastel coloured houses, medieval towers and well-preserved UNESCO-listed Citadel. It’s often said to resemble a medieval fairy-tale city…and I can see why. We fell in love with it! We stayed a few days in a wonderful little pension called Pensiunea Casa Sighişoreana , just off of the main street. It was an easy walk into the historic Citadel, which is a UNESCO Heritage Site. We spent a few days wandering within the Citadel, climbing the stairs up to the city walls (and down again!), visiting Dracula’s house, investigating the 9 remaining towers and soaking up the Romanian culture. You could see the town in a day or two, but we stayed a bit longer, waiting for our luggage to finally arrive!

Highlights to See in Sighisoara:

• The UNESCO Citadel
• Clock Tower
• Dracula’s house
• Scholar’s Staircase

Sighetu Marmatiei

From Sighişoara, we headed north to Sighetu Marmaţiei , which was supposed to be a 5 hour drive, but ended up taking us quite a bit longer. We finally arrived, after twisting and turning up these narrow mountain roads, all in the absolute darkness, and I don’t think I’ve ever had a trickier drive! But we made it! If you do this drive, make sure to use a GPS or leave with plenty of time! Google maps isn’t too accurate on Romanian roads….

Sighetu Marma ţ iei is a small town in northern Romania and one of the main towns in the Maramures region. The town has quite a few historical attractions, including an outdoor Village Museum, the Elie Wiesel Memorial House and only a short 20 minute drive away is the Merry Cemetery, which is a must-see if you’re in the area! The town is on the border with the Ukraine and about a kilometer from the center of town is a bridge that you can walk across and enter the Ukraine! Now I’m not one for getting a stamp on a passport just because you set foot in a country, but how often can you say you crossed to another country on a footbridge?

Highlights to see in Sighetu Marmatiei

• The open-air Village Museum
• Elie Wiesel Memorial House
• Cross to the Ukraine
• The Merry Cemetery

Sighetu Marmatiei is a small town and it’s worth staying a day or two.  We stayed at the Motel Perla Sigheteana which was walking distance from everything, and parking was included. Click below to check for other accommodation.

We left Sighetu Marmatiei and headed deeper into the Maramures, to a village called Breb . I had heard about this village a year ago and it was definitely an influence on how we planned our entire trip. It didn’t disappoint!

The Maramures are known for their traditional haystacks, beautifully carved wooden gates and unique wooden churches. Eight of these wooden churches in the Maramures are designated UNESCO Heritage sites.

It’s one of the last peasant cultures in Europe and a welcome break from the regular rush of day to day life. Villagers live a quiet and simple life, keep cows and chickens in their yards, and rely mainly on whatever food they produce. You won’t find many cars along the village roads but you will see quite a few tractors!

Highlights to see in Breb:

• Wooden churches
• Traditional peasant life
• Intricately carved wooden gates

As it’s a small traditional town, most of the accommodations are small, family run pensiuneanas, bed and breakfast type places. We stayed in the fabulous Zestrea Brebului and highly recommend it – it even had a swimming pool!

Cluj-Napoca

After reluctantly leaving Breb, we headed to Cluj-Napoca (again, Google maps was not accurate with the estimated time, and we didn’t have a GPS, so we arrived quite a bit later than I’d anticipated). We only spent a night here, but if you have time, it warrants a few days!

Cluj-Napoca, often referred to as just “Cluj”, is the second largest city in Romania and is definitely underrated. Baroque buildings, Gothic churches and medieval towers, alongside bohemian art galleries and a renowned Botanic Garden make Cluj a great place to spend a few days.

Highlights to see in Cluj:

• St. Michael’s Church, the second biggest Gothic church in Romania
• Alexandru Borza Botanic Gardens

Sibiu was our next stop. The city is known for its Germanic architecture and iconic houses with windows that resemble eyes. Sibiu is considered part of the Saxon triangle, with Sighişoara and Braşov, which are the usual tourist stops in Romania. Even though Sibiu is one of the main tourist destinations in Romania, it still holds its original charm.

Wander through the medieval center, pass under the Bridge of Lies, climb the staircases that separate the Lower Town from the Upper Town, stop for a rest in Piata Mare, the main open square and then climb the clock tower for a bird’s eye view of the town!

Highlights to see in Sibiu

• View from the top of the Clock Tower
• Unique eyelid shaped windows
• Bridge of Lies
• Piata Mare and Piata Mica

• Driving the Transfagarasan Road

We left Sibiu and headed to what I think was the most exciting part of our Romanian Road Trip – the Transfagaraşan Road . Built by the Ceausescu regime in the 1970’s, the road is 115km long, twisting and turning as it rises up to a height of 2042 metres at Lake Balea. It’s the highest paved in Romania, and voted World’s Best Road by BBC’s Top Gear. The Transfagaraşan Road is only open from the end of June to the end of October, weather permitting. We made it just in time, driving it at the end of October. We had fantastic weather though, so it may have remained open longer that year. Even so, it was an amazing, but tricky and exhilarating drive. The hairpin turns, as you ascended to the top seemed like they would never end, but reaching the top, you were rewarded with the most fantastic views down the valley. We paused for a few well-deserved photos, then set out to continue the hairpin turns on the descent. We’ve got a full post on the Transfagarasan Road here .

We stopped for the night in the small town of Curtea de Arges , but not before passing by Poenari Castle . Perched atop a cliff, this castle was the home of Vlad the Impaler, also known as Vlad Draculea, who was the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Although Bran Castle is more commonly known as Dracula’s caslte, Poenari is the ACTUAL Dracula’s castle. Unfortunately we were only able to view it from the road below, as it was recently closed due to bear sightings.

Bran Castle

The next day we headed back towards Brasov to visit Bran Castle , commonly known as Dracula’s castle. It’s a national monument and definitely a popular tourist attraction. This castle is also high up on a hill, but no bears here! We wandered around the grounds, explored the castle and even had a few spooky-looking pictures!

Our road trip in Romania had come to an end and we dropped our rental car off the airport, just outside of Bucharest . Bucharest is the capital and largest city in Romania, and it’s easy to get around without a car.

The last few days of our Romania itinerary was spent exploring the capital of Romania! The gorgeous weather finally came to an end and although I think the rainy weather put a damper on our experience, we still managed to see quite a bit of the city.

Highlights to See in Bucharest:

• Palace of Parliament
• Herastrau Park
• National Village Museum
• Piata Unirii
• Cişmigiu Garden

We had an amazing time in on our road trip in Romania and I would definitely recommend putting Romania on your bucket list, if you haven’t already!

I hope this post has helped you to plan your visit to Romania. There’s far too much information to share every detail of our Romania itinerary here, but you can check out some of the posts on Romania that we’ve linked below. Those posts provide more detailed ideas of what to see and do in each place – especially if you are visiting Romania with kids!

If you do end up taking a road trip in Romania, let us know in the comments below or tag us on social media @threeisus! We’d love to hear how your adventure goes!

One Week Itinerary: Explore Transylvania and Bucharest

If you only have one week to visit Romania, spend your time exploring Transylvania and finish off your week in Bucharest. You could still rent a car and experience a road trip in Romania, but the cities listed below can also be reached by public transport. As the trains are often slow, renting a car will allow more time to explore each place.

Day 1-2: Brasov Day 3: Sighisoara Day 4-5: Sibiu Day 6-7: Bucharest

Read more about Romania:

• Best Things to do in Brasov, with or without Kids
• Things to do in Sighisoara with Kids
• Top Things to do in Sibiu with Kids
• The Land of Dracula: Where to Visit in Transylvania

Erin Martin is the founder and sole writer for Wanderlust with Kids. Together with her twin boys, they have travelled to over 20 countries and five provinces within Canada. Erin is responsible for planning and facilitating all of her family's travel itineraries and adventures, whether locally or internationally. An explorer at heart, Erin aims to make any travel adventure kid-friendly and shares all her favourite family-friendly things to do, both in Canada and abroad.

Hello! I will start my 12 day roadtrip in Romania in about 2 weeks (just my wife and I in our late 40s)! I have most of the plan ready (which is really 90% as yours but in reverse), but I am having a dilemma: is the drive to Maramures really really worth it, or should we leave more time to Transylvania and visit more places / have more days for hiking? My first plan was 2 nights in Maramures and 2 nights in Bucovina (+1 day in Bucharest and ~7 days in Transilvania – Sibiu, Sigisoara, Brasov, Cluj). Now I decided to leave Bucovina out, and have the plan very similar to yours, but at the same time some people suggest to leave Maramures out – and focus better in Transylvania.

What do you think? In retrospect, what have you done differently in your plan?

Thanks a lot!

Ohh, that’s a tough question to answer. Honestly, we loved the Maramures and wished we had been able to spend more time there. It’s a completely different experience from the rest of Romania. But, it is a long drive and there is also plenty to see in Transylvania. If you have a car, 7 days is plenty in Transylvania, if you don’t mind the long drive to the Maramures. I would add it in, but that’s just my opinion!

Hello, thanks for sharing this! I have a 5 yr old and a 3yr old and is planning a trip to Romania in 2 yrs time. What travel book or guide has inspired your itinerary? Thank you!

Wow! Romania is not a place I ever thought to visit. It looks so beautiful. Such an amazing trip.

It’s definitely underrated! If you ever have the chance, it’s worth a visit!

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Driving in Romania

Travel documents.

A valid passport is required for all overseas/ non-EU visitors. Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your visit (it will not expire sooner than your intended date of departure). However, please check the expiration date on your passport carefully before traveling to Europe. Some airlines (i.e. Lufthansa) may refuse boarding at your point of origin or while transferring planes if your passport is not valid for at least three months beyond your intended date of departure; or your entry into the Schengen Area could be denied. For this reason, the U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs recommends that your passport has at least six months' validity remaining whenever you travel abroad.

For stays longer than 90 days visitors need to need to apply for a temporary residence permit (either before arriving into Romania or at least 30 days before the 90-day "no visa" stay expires). To apply for an extended stay visa please visit eVisa.MAE.ro Additional information are available from any Romanian Immigration Office

Citizens of the European Union countries can enter Romania with a valid passport or with their National Identity Card.

Depending on your citizenship, you may be required to show different documents at the port-of-entry.

American and Canadian citizens as well as citizens of Australia, New Zealand and most European countries do not need an entry visa to visit Romania, providing duration of stay is not more than 90 (ninety) days, accumulated during a single visit - or multiple visits - within a six-month period.

Citizens of certain countries and territories need a visa to visit Romania. To quickly check if you need a visa please visit www.E-Visa.MAE.ro (select the "Get Informed" tab (up left) and enter the following information: passport issuing country, type of passport, purpose of your visit to Romania). Entry requirements and visa information are also available at www.mae.ro .

Please send all inquiries regarding visa and entry requirements to the nearest Consulate of Romania . RomaniaTourism has no authority or expertise to answer questions regarding travel documents or visa.

» List of countries whose nationals, bearer of a regular passport, are exempt from the requirement of a Romanian visa.

» List of countries whose nationals, bearer of diplomatic, service, official passport and seamen's books, are exempt from the requirement of a Romanian visa.

» List of countries whose nationals, holders of regular passport, need a visa to enter Romania.

Schengen Visas validity in Romania

Romania partially joined Schengen area of free movement opening up travel by air and sea without border checks. Border checks will continue to apply for those travelling by land between either Bulgaria or Romania and other Schengen area countries. Effective April 1 2024, the Consulates of Romania issue standard short-term Schengen C visas, as per recent EU directives.   Schengen Visa holders do not need to get a (special) Romanian visa to visit Romania as long as number of entries and/ or length of stay has not been not exhausted. More info concerning Romania visa requirements / Schengen visa. The Schengen visa zone includes 25 EU member countries along with four non-EU states: Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.

No immunizations or unusual health precautions are necessary or required. Romania has no infectious risks and there are no poisonous insects. There is no malaria in Romania. During the summer months mosquitoes are present in the Danube Delta and some low-lying regions. For your comfort take some mosquito repellent with you, if visiting Romania during the warm season.

Tap water is safe to drink; if you prefer, bottled water is inexpensive and widely available. Romania is home to more that 1/3 of the natural mineral springs in Europe. Some Romanian bottled waters are rated the best in the world for purity and taste and are exported to many foreign countries.

Naturally, we hope that you will never need to use any medical facilities. However, Romanian doctors are known for their high standard of medical education. The embassy of your country, to Romania, can probably provide a list of preferred physicians or medical facilities.

Travel with Pets in Romania

Leisure travelers or soon-to-be expatriates (departing from non-EU countries) generally fall within the EU regulations for non-commercial pet travel to Europe. The following EU regulations apply only to dogs, cats or ferrets. Please contact your Embassy/ Consulate (or the embassy of destination country) to determine what (if any) protocol to follow for other types of pets.

Documents needed to take your pet into Romania include:

1. Proof of rabies vaccinations - Rabbies Certificate (Your veterinarian issued documentation that proves rabies vaccination and disproves the existence of rabies in your pet, specifying that this documentation is certified for your travel to the EU). Your pet may not travel to Europe until at least 21 days after the primary rabies vaccine.

2. Pet's Health Certificate The health certificate must prove that your pet has had all its shots and is healthy enough to travel. Although this certificate is technically valid for 4 months, it is recommended to be completed and endorsed by the USDA within 10 days of travel to avoid any customs issues upon arrival. The results of a serological test and the pet's vaccination details must be attached to the health certificate. Obtain this documentation within 10 days of travel. For travel to Europe, an additional single-sheet EU Vet Health Certificate form must be filled out and certified by your vet.

3. Microchip Implantation Record Microchips provide electronic identification on your pet. If your pet doesn't already have a microchip you can easily get one. All original documentation must travel with your pet. Translation of documents is not needed if they are in English, French or German.

More info concerning pet movement from non-EU countries Romania Pet Travel check list

Dogs: must be kept in leash and wear a muzzle. Small pets and birds: must be kept in a cage at all times. Some municipalities might have additional regulations regarding travel with pets in city buses or trams. A small number of cities in Romania do not allow pets on board of their public transportation fleet.

Dogs: must be kept in leash and wear a muzzle at all times. Small pets and birds: must be kept in a cage at all times.

Dogs are allowed in second-class cars only; they must stay on the floor, in leash, and wear a muzzle at all times. If a passenger is allergic to pet-hair or is not comfortable in the presence of a dog, the owner of the dog must find a seat / place in another car. Dog's health certificate must be available for inspection by the train conductor.

A ticket is required for all (larger) dogs that do not travel in a pet-cage hold in the lap of the owner. The cost of a train ticket for a dog is 50% of the price of a ticket for an adult traveler.

Dog breeds with aggressive tendencies/ history (Pittbull, Boerboer, Bandogge) are not allowed on trains.

Each bus company has its own rules regarding pet travel / transportation.

Each airline has its own rules regarding pet travel / transportation. An international pet passport is required for pets traveling to EU / Schengen countries. Although there are uniform regulation within the EU, some European countries have additional own regulations regarding pets.

Romanians love pets; please don't be surprised or offended if someone you don't know tries to pet your dog or cat without asking permission.

Each hotel or restaurant has its own pet policy.

In general pets are allowed in hotels and restaurants. Many hotels will charge extra the guests bringing their pets.

Romania Customs Regulations

Romanian Customs regulations are in line with those of most European countries. A traveler can enter and leave Romania with up to 10,000 Euros (or equivalent) in cash or traveler's checks. Amounts over 10,000 Euros have to be declared when entering the country.

Items that must be declared at customs also include: art objects, historic artifacts, weapons, ammunition, explosive materials, toxic and hazadous substances.

- Tobacco: 40 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250 g (100 oz) tobacco. - Liquor: 4 litres of still wine and 16 litres of beer or 2 litres of alcoholic drinks less than 45 proof or one litre of liquor stonger than 45 proof. (one litre = 33.8 fl. oz). - A reasonable quantity of gifts with a total value of up to $450. - Goods and medical products/ medicines for personal use. Customs officers do not usually check the luggage of individual travelers or tour groups. However, you must know that, as in any other country, custom officers have the authority to check passports and to conduct enforcement examinations without a warrant, ranging from a single luggage examination to a personal search. More information on European customs regulations

U.S. / Canadian / Australian / New Zealand / European drivers' licenses are valid and can be used for driving in Romania, by visitors who are in the country temporarily (less than 90 days).

Driving is on the right side of the road.

Independent travelers entering Romania by car (own or rental) need to obtain a road toll sticker, called "RoVinieta". RoVigneta is available on-line at Roviniete , and E_Rovinieta , as well as at border-crossing points, postal offices and most gas stations. Cost of RoVinieta for passenger cars is the Romanian currency equivalent of $3.50 (7 days) or $8.00 (30 days).

Romania Rules of the Road are available at RomaniaTourism Practical Information section

General emergency phone # : 112

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ROMANIA WITH KIDS: A 5 day Itinerary Through Transylvania

Read on to plan the perfect 5-day itinerary through Romania with kids.  If you only have time for a short family break then focus your Romania itinerary on Transylvania.

In Transylvania you will find  small villages nestled against green hills. Shepherds tending their flocks.  Grand palaces and well preserved fortresses. A 5 day itinerary through Transylvania is a good pace for families to visit the main sites.

Stories of Dracula and cruel rulers add to the intrigue.

For more trips in Europe check out these posts on Norway , the Black Forest and Dresden in Germany.

5-DAY TRANSYLVANIA ITINERARY : ROMANIA WITH KIDS

Getting around transylvania.

We booked a private tour through Viator , Romania is a really affordable country to visit so we took the opportunity to have a bit of luxury which for us included a driver that was an official Romanian guide, this meant skipping queues, priority parking and insider knowledge. Our guide is no longer available but Viator has lots of reviews so you can pick a company that is highly regarded and personalise your own trip.

Click here to find out about booking your own affordable driver.

START IN BUCHAREST

Arrive in Bucharest and transfer to your hotel. We stayed at the City-life Apartments . A great location to wander around the narrow cobbled streets of the old town.

Bucharest Old Town

Spend some time wandering around the narrow cobbled streets of the old town where you will find a mix of elegantly restored period buildings alongside, glass-clad modern architecture, street art and buildings still in a state of disrepair.

Head to Caru’ cu Bere restaurant , one of the oldest restaurants in the city. The dark wood carvings and frescoes glittering with gold foil decorate the walls which stretch up too high ceilings and stained glass windows.

The restaurant feels grand but highchairs and colouring pencils signal families are welcome here.

The restaurant serves a variety of traditional Eastern European food.  Finding food suitable for kids in Romania is not hard, dishes include sausages, polenta topped with egg, pork knuckles and fish.

Grab some dessert at Cremeria Emili a for some of the best ice cream you will find anywhere.

Get a good night sleep ready to start your 5 day Transylvania itinerary in the morning.

Want a free travel planner? Click here.

Day 1: peles castle and rasnov fortress, peles castle.

The interior is ornate down to the last detail and holds a large collection of decadent furnishings and art. The castle is closed on Mondays and in November. You must join a tour to view the palace.

In the afternoon visit Rasnov Fortress.

Rasnov Fortress

Overnight in Brasov.

DAY 2: LIBERTY BEAR SANCTUARY | BRAN CASTLE | BRASOV CITY

Liberty bear sanctuary.

A short drive from Brasov visit the Liberty Bear Sanctuary .

In 1998 a Romanian, Cristina Lapis saw a bear caged and near death in a restaurant near Bran Castle. Through her dedication and passion the Liberty Bear Sanctuary was created and now holds 70 rescued beers.

At one time it was common for bears to be kept by hotels, restaurants and petrol stations to entertain customers. Bears were drugged to keep them docile and held in deplorable conditions.

The Liberty Bear Sanctuary has advocated for these bears and the practice of keeping bears for entertainment has now been abolished.

• The sanctuary is open in the mornings (closed Monday).
• A guide takes you through the park, giving a very educational and informative talk.
• This is a Sanctuary, not a Zoo, the stories of the bears that have been rescued are moving but seeing how they have been rehabilitated is uplifting.
• The bears have lost their natural instincts after being stolen from the wild when they were cubs. Once they have been rehabilitated they can move into the 70-hectare enclosure.
• Children will love seeing the bears frolic and play with each other, climb trees and swim.
• Please note as of 2018 the bear sanctuary does not allow children under the age of 5 to visit.

Bran Castle

Bran Castle is probably the most famous attraction in Transylvania, thought of as ‘Dracula’s’ castle the links to the Novel and Vlad the Impaler the ruler on which the Bram Stoker book was based are tenuous. Those looking for stories of Vampires will be disappointed. The attractive looking castle sits strategically high on a hill overlooking the town of Bran. The interior of the castle is simply decorated and well maintained, there is information about the history of the castle and a small exhibition on the legend of Dracula (some pictures might disturb younger children). Narrow staircases lead through to small rooms which give an idea of life in the castle. The castle can get very busy during peak times and there are usually queues for tickets. The castle is closed on Monday morning.

Brasov City with kids

DAY 3: Village of Viscri and Sighisoara

This morning head to the Saxon village of Viscri. This small remote village is a Unesco Heritage site. The main road is unpaved. 200-year-old houses, with slanted pyramid shaped clay tile roofs and pastel coloured plastered facades, are typical for the area. Turkeys and chickens scatter as we approach. Horses are tied next to a water trough. Prince Charles has a passion for preserving the Transylvanian culture and has purchased and restored a pale blue cottage with dark wooden shutters.

Visit the fortified church, the oldest and best preserved in Romania. Climb the main tower for a view over the Transylvanian country-side. Visit the small church museum for an explanation and examples of Saxon traditions. Tickets are sold by a weathered old woman with a good sense of humour. After we spotted the “Sinners step” where non-virgins were traditionally married she jokes that if that was still the case today they would have no use for the chapel.

Our tour guide had arranged for a farmer to take us on a tour of the surrounding countryside. Horse and cart is still the main form of transport for many people in the countryside. The farmer explained that he saved up to buy his horse by doing manual labour for other farms. Once he had a horse and cart he was able to become a delivery man, delivering feed, crops and building supplies, now he owns a number of horse an carts and has purchased his own small plot of land where he has sheep, pigs and chickens. The delightful and loyal Cappuccino, a Jack Russell, followed excitedly next to the cart as we trundled through the pastures.

Contact the local tourist board to arrange activities during your visit.

In Sighisoara you will find the only remaining inhabited fortress in Europe. The compact citadel is easy to explore on foot. With few attractions to visit the appeal of Sighisoara is more in wandering the cobbled streets, happening across a market or traditional performance on the main square and ducking through narrow doors into shops selling traditional handicrafts. A climb up the 14th-century clock tower is worthwhile to enjoy views down onto the medieval citadel, and down to the river which bisects the lower town.

Another link to the legend of Dracula lies here. A fresco depicting what is believed to be the birth of Vlad the Impaler was uncovered in one of the historic buildings within the citadel. At the time the building was being used as an old person’s home, now it is a restaurant. We enjoyed our meal at Restaurant Casa Vlad Dracul during a quiet lunch hour. The service and food can apparently slip during busy periods so take that into consideration Dracula fans.

DAY 4: Corvin Castle and Sibiu

Corvin castle in hunedoara..

Corvin castle is everything you want a castle to be (and that Bram castle wasn’t).  The castle stands with it’s tall turrets, moats and fortification and is one of the largest castles in Europe. The outward appearance of the castle and internal dark dungeons and grand halls make a more fitting fictional home for Dracula, just add some low mist and a few bats and you have the makings of a Hollywood movie.  In fact one of the medieval “Dragonheart” movies was filmed here in 2016.

The small torture museum in the dungeon is truly gruesome so avoid this with children, we took turns going down to have a look.

If you only have time to visit one castle in Transylvania this should be it.

Note: Corvin Castle is also known as Hunedoara Castle and Hunyadi

It was a rainy Sunday afternoon when we were visiting Sibiu.

Sibiu wins the heart of travellers from around the world. With it’s medieval old town, well preserved architecture picturesque cobbled squares, narrow lanes and well preserved architecture its charm is obvious.

Sibiu is about strolling and snacking. Not over touristed like other historic cities like Prague gives the space to stroll the streets enjoy the atmosphere and smile as the kind eyes on the houses seem to watch you walk by.

Join the locals and queue for one of the Romanian snacks on offer sold from whole in the wall bakeries which line the main thoroughfares.

Tell a lie on the bridge of lies and listen for the creak that fables say it makes if you are caught fibbing.

For a better view over the city and out to the sometimes snow covered mountains climb the Council Tower or Lutheran Cathedral.

DAY 5: Transfagarasan road, Poenari Castle and Vidraru Dam

The last leg of the 5-day itinerary can be taken via the Transfagarasan road. This picturesque road winds through the Fagaras Mountains of Transylvania reaching an altitude of 2042 metres.

Launched to fame when the BBC’s Top Gear presenter Jeremy Clarkson, after driving the road for the TV show, titles it “ The worlds best road”.

The road was built while Romania was under Communist rule as a reaction to the Soviet invasion of Czechoslovakia, to be used as a strategic military road. But as the road is closed for a large part of the year and other more accessible roads already excited in the area it is thought it was more of a show of strength rather than forward planning.

• The road is usually open June to October but has been known to be closed well into the Summer due to late snowfall.
• Check the road reports before you go.
• While Jeremy Clarkson raced over the road taking the hairpin bends at speed these days the traffic congestion on the popular route has made it a much slower traverse. Best avoided on the weekends if you can.

We arrived in late May, the top of the road was still closed but we were able to follow the most scenic part of the road which leads up past Poenari Castle and the Vidraru Dam.

You will find Poenari Castle perched atop a high outcrop. Many say this is the real ‘Dracula Castle’ since Vlad the Impaler who was the inspiration for the Dracula character held residence here for a number of years.The steep path and view across the valley made this crumbling castle appealing to Vlad as a place to defend against an Ottoman empire invasion. The difficult path has been replaced by 1480 concrete stairs which gradually zigzag up through the forest. The Castle is in ruins but the remains take an impressive position of the cliff and with the history, scenery and incredible views the climb is satisfying and worthwhile.

Vidraru Dam was built on the Agres River in 1966, the view of Lake Vidraru and the valley below the huge dam are worth a look.

Next you will head back to Bucharest to see some more city sites or catch your flight home.

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THE BEST OF EDINBURGH IN 1-DAY WITH KIDS

Family travel to Bristol, England

Related posts, tips for flying with a fussy baby, mill canyon dinosaur trail: moab, utah, 3 day moab winter itinerary with kids..

Did you bring a car seat with you? Is it possible to see all these sights via train or other public transportation or is a car a must?

Our driver had one car seat so we brought another with us as well. It is possible to travel by train and bus but for time and convenience, car is a better option. Romania was a cheap place to visit so we took advantage of being able to afford a driver.

Do you have a map showing how far apart each area is and where did you stay each night?

Hi Andrea, I sometimes build google maps to share on the site to show how far apart places are. I haven’t done it for this post but I will add it to my tasks and put one up soon. As to where we stayed, I wasn’t thrilled about some of our accommodation so only mentioned the place we stayed in Bucharest which was great. The other places I wouldn’t recommend so I haven’t listed them. I find reviews on tripadvisor and booking.com are usually pretty reliable and up to date.

Hi, did you rent a car or rely on train/ taxi/ bus travel while there? I’m hoping to visit here on a train trip across Eastern Europe with my children in the summer but won’t have access to a car! Thanks

We actually used a private tour guide and he drove us around in a van. Renting a car would be another good option. You can get find a recommendation on tripadvisor. Our guide is now doing only group tours otherwise I would recommend him.

I’ve never really thought of Romania as a place to visit but I absolutely love the sound of this! Would love to see all the castles and especially the bear sanctuary. How old are your children? The website says that under 5’s are not permitted and my daughter is only a year old 🙁

That is interesting that they say under 5’s aren’t admitted, my daughter was 2 when we visited. I would recommend asking on the Brasov tripadvisor forum. It certainly wasn’t mentioned to us.

Only a few blogger would discuss this topic the way you do. I like all the detail you go into.

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The Best Places to Visit in Romania with Kids

• By Lisa Frederick
• November 21, 2018

We’re excited to introduce a new family-friendly destination to Ciao Bambino: Romania! This rugged, mountainous country on the Black Sea remains untouched by the tourist hordes that have crept into some of its Eastern European neighbors. From intricate castles and thick-walled churches to pristine forests and meadows flecked with wildflowers, it will capture kids’ fantasies in its own unique way.

As with so many unspoiled places, the time to go is now — Romania won’t stay off the radar forever. Want a taste of what makes it so special? Read our Q&A with our vetted travel partner in the region, then contact us to plan a trip tailored just for your family.

Best Places to Visit in Romania with Kids

What makes romania such a wonderful destination.

Romania is the last truly wild destination in Europe. Because it had its borders closed during communism (roughly 45 years), the country was untouched by the modernization happening elsewhere in Europe; the forests stayed forests and were not transformed into parks or groomed to look a certain way. The villages stayed with a local life that’s very much connected to nature and the seasons; the people have been respecting the traditions, religion often playing a big part in this.

Now imagine that once the borders were open, everyone wanted to have everything they did not have for 45 years. The country you visit today has some state-of-the-art locations in Bucharest, more large and expensive cars than expected, the third-fastest Internet in the world and pristine nature, villages where people use traditional ways of working the land, and a culture very much focused on family (it’s still more common to cook than to go out to eat). It’s very contrasting in a way.

Want help planning a family trip to Romania?

Our Family Vacation Advisors can connect you with our travel partners in the region to put together the adventure of a lifetime. Click to send us a request! >

Why should Romania be a priority for families traveling in Europe?

It’s safe and it’s very child-friendly. The activities are very much in nature, authentic, hands-on, sensory. The people guests meet are real characters, often with life stories that you could write a book about. Romania has the largest area covered by virgin forests; wildlife is abundant and because there was no human intervention, the meadows have more species of plants than anywhere else in Europe. Prince Charles comes every year in June to stay for a few days in his private residence in Eastern Transylvania specifically to see the wildflowers blossom.

Not last, the food is tasty, cooked with healthy ingredients.

What are the ideal ages to take advantage of all the country has to offer?

It depends on the parents. I have a toddler and she loves coming everywhere with me. She cannot hike in the mountains, but she is keen to visit local people, she is fond of animals and generally enjoys playing outside.

For more organized activities, it helps if the children are older, but I think the free space for roaming safely in nature makes it a great place for families with babies. The fresh air and lack of any kind of pollution plus the organic food make it altogether a healthy kind of destination, which often parents want.

How long do families need to explore Romania?

I would say a minimum of seven days, ideally 10 to 14. For Transylvania only, one needs around five to seven days; to see more regions, one needs more time.

What are the highlights of a Romania itinerary?

Everyone knows and wants to see Transylvania, the land of the Saxon villages and their fortified churches. Then they often add Maramures, with its wooden churches, and Bucovina, known for the painted monasteries. The Danube Delta is the other attraction, especially for nature lovers. In all of these regions, one gets exposed to amazing nature, local experiences and a consistent dose of UNESCO heritage, culture and history. We often recommend not overdoing it because seeing too many churches can be painful, especially for kids. Same for museums.

Depending on the region they go to, most people combine staying in small towns with staying in villages. For example, in Transylvania people often go to Brasov, Sibiu and Sighisoara but also to Viscri, Copsa Mare and Cincsor. The choice is often limited by the location of decent guesthouses and activities that can be done in the area.

Is Romania easy to get around?

I would say yes. In some parts it’s not always well marked, so sometimes you need a great map or GPS to reach a certain location. These days with Waze it should be fairly easy for everyone. Traffic might be a bit shocking for some, as there are few highways and on the national roads people often speed or overcome other cars.

When is the best time of year to visit?

Anytime from April to the end of October. April and October are shoulder months, so weatherwise they can be a bit unpredictable; however, they are less busy. The best months would be June and September. July and August can often be very hot and August is madly busy because that’s when a lot of Romanians living abroad come back for their holidays and everything is blocked … [I would] encourage people to book in April, May, October.

Relevant Links:

18 summer vacations to take before your kids grow up

Best Places to Visit in Europe: 7 Family-Friendly Hidden Gems

10 family vacations that will change kids forever

Europe with kids: 5 tips for organizing a family-friendly itinerary

Best itineraries for a week in Europe with kids: Part 1

Best itineraries for a week in Europe with kids: Part 2

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12 Reasons to visit Romania with children

Because hearing the (were)wolves howling at the moon is cool. Because fairytale grannies do exist and they are black belts in baking pies and donuts(duh!). Because hopping in the occasional cart hitched to a sturdy draft horse is so much fun. There are oodles of reasons to visit Romania with children. Here are our top 12.

>> Check out our 8-day suggested itinerary with kids right here <<

1. Romanians love children 

Surprised? Well, we are related to Italians and we are mainly Greek Orthodox . A fairly explosive combination, one should think. So don’t panic if an old lady does ptoo ptoo ptoo , as if she is spitting at your child. It simply means protection against evil eye (“deochi”). Whose evil eye? Well, her own!  

An ancient superstition says that excessive   admiration(especially of young children) may cause bad luck or malaise. It is customary to “spit” three times after making a compliment to someone to protect him/her from the evil eye.  

Mind you, if the preventive “spitting” is omitted, there are always spells which claim to break the curse. A little magic never hurt anyone, right?

2. There’s actual food in our food 

Simply because, in many parts of Romania, agriculture is still a handmade affair , largely unmechanised and small-scaled. Most of the rural population work on farms with the smallest herds, the lowest yields, but some of the highest levels of self-sufficiency in Europe. They produce enough organic food to fuel their work in the field and get them though the cold winters.

>> More about Romanian food here <<

Tip : Try to eat homemade meals as much as possible when in Romania. Kids will drool at the cheese doughnuts (papanasi), walnut rolls (cozonaci) and the umpteen pies (placinte). But they won’t get to taste them before finishing their soup! Rule no.1! Romanian soups … a topic that can stretch on pages; we’ll tackle it in a future post!

3. Accommodation is easy and affordable

We may not have Mandarin Orientals, nor Relais & Chateaux, but we do have a plethora of   traditional guesthouses, boutique hotels, beautifully restored mansions , not to mention the Airbnbs. Extra beds, interconnecting rooms, private kitchens, you name it! You won’t need to break the bank when travelling to Romania with kids and that’s a fact. And a darn good incentive as well.  

4. No need to carry diapers or gluten-free biscuits  

Guess what? Romanians have tots, too! And guess what else? They all wear diapers! So don’t stress over excess luggage and bring only what’s necessary for a day or two. You’ll find all you need and more once you get here. Also, the gluten/ dairy-free diets are no longer a secret to this neck of the woods. In big cities, you’ll find dedicated shelves at the hypermarkets or, you may go to specialised shops that offer a wider variety of products. We, personally, have a long history with food intolerances, so we do take these things seriously .  

5. There are mountains

The Carpathian Mountains ! Spectacular, untamed and rewarding, with plenty of natural parks begging to be hiked. In summer, you can go camping, glamping, wildlife watching, forest-berry foraging or bat-cave exploring . Winter is great for skiing, snowboarding or wild animal track hunting . Following the tracks of wild animals (bear, wolf, lynx, boar, deer) in the snow is lots of fun, as long as the beasts are not hungry (Little Red Riding-hood beware!).

6. Oh yes, and there are beaches…  

Maybe not the Caribbean style, but sandy and with shallow waters ; perfect for sand castles and making friends! Excellent for toddlers and vitamin D intake!  

The Black Sea might not be Romania’s top attraction, but if you couple it with the Danube Delta , it’s the perfect spot for people watching and disconnecting.  

7. You don’t need to look for conventional playgrounds  

Village lanes are as much fun. Children can witness “when the cows come home” and befriend the local kids. There’s no better place to play barefoot in the dirt and connect with the Earth.  They can find entertainment even in the most pious of all places: the monasteries. Provided they come across a spirited nun who lets them “play” the church bells . Can you think of a better reason to visit Romania with children? 

8. There are the myths and legends, too

The spooky castles and Draculashire! Although we beg to differ, kids have a soft spot for all this bunkum. Just say the word “Transylvania” and watch their pupils dilate with  adrenaline rush.

>> Dracula’s Castle and its story here <<

Tip : Use this opportunity to pour in some real history. Children will love hearing the legends surrounding this area and visiting some of the sites where these legends took place will make life-long memories.

10. Cute encounters with animals

From spring till autumn, Romania is swarming with sheep, cows, goats, geese, ducks and other critters. “The Pride Lands” of farm animals, with the fluffy sheepdogs playing Mufasa. In some households, they can even give a helping hand with  goat/cow/sheep milking . We really think that goats are the most docile through :). And we know what we’re talking about.

11. You may even adopt one

A puppy for instance. If your kids fall in love with an irresistible homeless puppy while scouting around the country, get a local vet to help you and you can bring home a barking souvenir . And you name it Vlad !

12. It’s safe, affordable and offbeat

3 key words when deciding to take the kids on vacation! Romania has been the Cinderella of mass-media for years, but she’s now shaking off the ash, catching the attention of the world. Try to get here before the clock strikes midnight!

We may be perfect for you

We hope you found these 12 reasons to visit Romania with children helpful and inspiring. Whether you usually plan your own trips, or work with a destination travel designer, planning a trip to Romania can seem daunting at times.

At Romania Private Tours , our specialty is crafting bespoke tours for travellers seeking unique, authentic experiences . If you are interested in planning your trip with us , please feel free to send us an enquiry.

by Cezarina Pomojnicu, the intrepid mom of a 9-year-old

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Dracula’s Castle

This post has 2 comments.

Try to post a real picture from Black Sea.

Hi, Lavinia. I know it’s an unusual colour for our Black Sea, but the day we took that photo the sky was very heavy and the colour of the sea was turquoise. Here is the initial FB post with more photos http://bit.ly/36IhnfQ

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Romania travel advice

Latest updates: Editorial change

Last updated: September 17, 2024 17:28 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, romania - take normal security precautions.

Take normal security precautions in Romania.

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Violent crime is rare.

Pickpocketing, purse snatching and mugging occur, particularly in Bucharest and other urban centres. Be vigilant in crowded areas such as busy streets, public transportation, train stations and airport terminals. Avoid walking alone after dark.

Organized groups of thieves are particularly active in public transport hubs, such as train and bus stations, and subways.

Theft can occur on intercity trains. Don’t leave your compartment unattended. Always lock the door from the inside. Don’t travel on your own, particularly on overnight trains.

Theft from hotel rooms is common. Make sure your valuables are always locked away if leaving them in the room while you’re away.

Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times, particularly on public transportation. Avoid showing signs of affluence and carrying large sums of cash.

There is a threat of terrorism in Europe. Terrorists have carried out attacks in several European cities and further attacks are likely.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant if attending sporting events and during religious holidays and other public celebrations, as terrorists have used such occasions to mount attacks.

Individuals posing as plainclothes police officers may ask you to see your foreign currency and passports. Politely decline to cooperate, but offer to go to the nearest police station to sort out the issue.

Some bars and nightclubs may try to charge exorbitant prices. Discussions about overcharging may lead to threats of violence and security guards may force you to pay.

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Cybercrime occurs. Perpetrators may compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal credit card or personal information.

• Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks
• Avoid making purchases on unencrypted websites
• Be cautious when posting information on social media
• Be particularly vigilant when contacting or meeting individuals known over the internet

Overseas fraud

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as the items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Demonstrations

Demonstrations take place from time to time. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

• avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• follow the instructions of local authorities
• monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Road safety

Road conditions and road safety can vary greatly throughout the country. With the exception of major city streets and intercity highways, many roads are in disrepair, poorly lit, narrow and without marked lanes.

Driving can be hazardous due to aggressive drivers, erratic driving behaviour and excessive speeds.

Don’t drive after dark outside of major cities due to unsafe conditions. These can include horse-drawn carts without lights and wandering livestock on the road.

Public transportation

Use only licensed metered taxis that display their price lists. Verify the tariffs on the taxi’s window before boarding and ensure that the meter displays the correct tariff. Tariffs are more expensive at night and when travelling outside of the city limits.

At the Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport, arrange for a taxi from the taxis booth within the arrivals terminal to get a fair rate. Don’t hail a taxi on the street; instead, order one from your hotel or use a trusted ride-sharing app.

Avoid travelling alone in a taxi to remote areas.

Rail services safety standards are generally good.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Romanian authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

schengen_area

• Schengen area

Romania entered the Schengen area on March 31, 2024. Air and maritime border controls are no longer in effect. Land border controls will remain in effect until further notice.

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave Romania.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period Business visa: not required for stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period Student visa: required

The 90-day, visa-free period begins upon initial entry into Romania.

If you plan to return to Romania within 180 days of your last visit, authorities will only allow you entry for what’s left of your 90-day, visa-free exemption. If you’ve already spent 90 days within any 180 day-period, authorities may refuse you entry.

Guide to temporary entry into Romania under CETA

Romania is a Schengen area country. Canadian citizens do not need a visa for travel to countries within the Schengen area. However, visa-free travel only applies to stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Stays are cumulative and include visits to any Schengen area country.

If you plan to stay in the Schengen area for a longer period of time, you will need a visa. You must contact the high commission or embassy of the country or countries you are travelling to and obtain the appropriate visa(s) prior to travel.

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Children and travel

Romanian authorities consider a child born to a Romanian parent as a citizen of Romania, even if the child was born in Canada and has a Canadian passport.

When leaving Romania, a Romanian citizen under the age of 18 must:

• travel with one of the following
• both parents
• one parent with the written consent of the non-accompanying parent
• their legal guardian(s)
• an authorized person over the age of 18 who has passed a criminal record check.
• carry a standard statement of consent to travel from their parent(s) or guardian(s), notarized by Romanian authorities. This does not apply to Romanian children returning to their proven country of legal residence.

Entry and exit requirements for children under the age of 18 may change without notice. Parents of children travelling alone or with one parent should contact the nearest Romanian embassy or consulate before departing for Romania to confirm that each child meets the latest entry and exit requirements.

• Travelling with children
• Terms of leaving Romania with Romanian minors (in Romanian)

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is not required to enter this country.

Recommendation

• Vaccination is not recommended.

* It is important to note that country entry requirements may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Tick-borne encephalitis (TBE) is a risk in some areas of this destination. It is a viral disease that affects the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord). It is spread to humans by the bite of infected ticks or occasionally when unpasteurized milk products are consumed.

Travellers to areas where TBE is found may be at higher risk  during April to November, and the risk is highest for people who hike or camp in forested areas.

Protect yourself from tick bites . The vaccine is not available in Canada. It may be available in the destination you are travelling to.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

•  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
•  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
•  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

Medical services and facilities

Medical services and facilities vary throughout the country. They may not be up to the standards you might expect in Canada. Private hospitals and clinics located in cities are often better staffed and equipped than public or rural facilities. Most medical facilities expect cash payment at the time of service.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Transfer to a Canadian prison

Canada and Romania are signatories to the Convention on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons. This enables a Canadian imprisoned in Romania to request a transfer to a Canadian prison to complete a sentence. The transfer requires the agreement of both Canadian and Romania authorities.

This process can take a long time, and there is no guarantee that the transfer will be approved by either or both sides.

Identification

You must carry photo identification at all times as local authorities can ask you to prove your identity. A photocopy of your passport is acceptable, and will help in case of loss or seizure of the original document.

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect prison sentences of up to 15 years and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Photography

It is illegal to photograph government buildings and military installations, unless prior permission has been obtained from local authorities.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Romania.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Romania, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. The convention applies between Canada and Romania.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Romania, and if the applicable conditions are met, you may apply for the return of your child to the Romanian court.

If you are in this situation:

• act as quickly as you can
• contact the Central Authority for your province or territory of residence for information on starting an application under The Hague Convention
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Romania to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• List of Canadian Central Authorities for the Hague Convention
• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• The Hague Convention – Hague Conference on Private International Law
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

You must carry an international driving permit along with a valid Canadian driver’s licence in order to drive or to rent a vehicle in Romania. However, your Canadian driver’s licence is only considered valid for up to 90 days. For stays longer than 90 days, you will need to exchange your driver’s licence for a Romanian one.

Traffic laws are strict and local authorities carry out frequent road checks.

There is zero tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol and penalties are severe. If a police officer suspects you of drinking and driving, they could confiscate your driver's licence on the spot. If you’re convicted, you can expect heavy fines and jail sentences. It is illegal to refuse a breathalyser test.

You must carry vehicle registration and proof of insurance.

A motorway vignette (locally known as a rovinieta) is required to travel outside major cities. You may purchase these at border points, post offices and large gas stations.

Headlights must be on at all times when driving, regardless of the time of day or weather.

Winter tires are mandatory during winter months.

You must carry a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a warning triangle in your car.

The use of a cellular telephone while driving is prohibited, unless it is fitted with a hands-free device.

Children under 12 cannot sit in the front seat of a vehicle.

International Driving Permit

2SLGBTQI+ persons

Although Romanian law does not prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex, homosexuality is not widely accepted.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

The currency of Romania is the leu (RON).

Exchanging money on the street is illegal. You may exchange Euros in recognized establishments, such as exchange shops, banks and hotels. Carry crisp bills, as merchants may not accept well-worn or used banknotes. Traveller’s cheques are not widely accepted. The economy is primarily cash-based, but credit cards are widely accepted in major urban centres.

If you are carrying €10,000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs when you enter or leave the European Union. It includes sums in:

• banknotes and coins
• bearer negotiable instruments such as cheques, travellers’ cheques, promissory notes and money orders
• bonds, shares
• gold coins with a gold content of at least 90 %
• gold bars, nuggets or clumps with a gold content of at least 99.5 %
• any other convertible asset

This does not apply if you are travelling within the European Union or in transit to a non-EU country.

EU cash controls - European Commission

Heavy rains caused flooding and landslides in Romania, especially in the eastern half of the country. Certain areas have been evacuated. Transportation is disrupted.

For more information on flooding and landslides

Seismic activity

Romania is located in an active seismic zone.

There is a risk of avalanches in mountainous regions when rapidly warming temperatures follow a particularly harsh winter. Extreme weather can cause landslides.

Exercise caution, monitor local news and weather reports and follow the advice of local authorities.

Emergency information guide – Romania’s General Inspectorate for Emergency Situations (in Romanian)

Flooding and landslides

Heavy rains, particularly in the fall and winter, can cause flooding and landslides. Roads may become impassable and infrastructure damaged.

• Exercise caution, particularly in areas around rivers
• Stay informed of the latest regional weather forecasts
• Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Hydrological Warnings – National Institute of Hydrology and Water Management (INHGA) (in Romanian)

High temperatures

Extreme temperatures, in both summer and winter, may cause electricity outages.

Local services

Dial 112 for emergency assistance.

Consular assistance

Bulgaria, Moldova

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada in Bucharest and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Family Holiday in Romania: 4 Itineraries to Try With Kids

• August 30, 2024

If you want to plan a family holiday, Romania may be an excellent choice. This mountainous country on the Black Sea still remains undiscovered by the tourist hordes, which have already taken by surprise some of its Easter European neighbours.

This country surely knows what diversity means. From marvellous castles and fortified churches to pristine forests and meadows filled with wildflowers, this place will surely capture your children’s attention in its unique way.

Visiting Romania with kids , it’s a great idea since this country is highly family-friendly. And there are several things to do, from nature walks to full experiences; this country has a little bit for everyone.

If you were thinking of booking your next holiday with kids in Romania, then you’re in luck. In this article, we’ve put together four itineraries that promise a magical experience. So, read on and find out what a holiday should look like.

Romania has a lot of potentials to become your next favourite family destination. This country gains every traveller’s heart with its diverse environment and welcoming people. However, its infrastructures are still in full development, so you’ll need someone to tell you how things work.

A guided tour is ideal, especially when you travel with little kids. A professional will help you adapt your itinerary to your family’s schedule making your holiday a real success. If you prefer a self-driving tour, leave the details to us and you will have no worries about the accommodation or where to eat with the children.

We have cherry-picked the following itineraries as they include fantastic experiences for you and your loved ones. Let’s discover them together.

Itinerary 1: Dobrogea and Danube Delta in 4 days

This itinerary is perfect for a short family trip to Romania, especially if you all love nature.

Day 1: Constanta city tour, Mamaia Black sea resort Day 2: Dobrogea Gorge, Traditional fisherman villages in Dobrogea Day 3: Danube Delta boat tour Day 4: Back to Bucharest

One of the fascinating parts of Romania is Danube Delta, but you’ll have some incredible stops before getting there. This itinerary focuses more on the southeast part of the country as it is rich in beach resorts, port cities and stunning wildlife.

As you commute from Bucharest to Constanta, you’ll be free to discover the port city. Here resides one of the best buildings in Romania–the famous Casino. Your trip to Constanta can not be complete without a well-deserved sunbathing at Mamaia Resort.

Your trip to Danube Delta also gives you the opportunity to explore Doborgea and its wonderful places. You’ll find here the Dobrogea gorge, which offers spectacular natural landscapes complemented by antic fortresses, monasteries and mosques, famous vineyards, caves, and sunny beaches.

Even though the fisherman villages with their Turkish and Greek influence are beyond fascinating, the highlight of your family holiday will be the Danube Delta.

The natural biosphere has spectacular beauty and unique characteristics, which place it in the UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you reach the area, you’ll observe that time passes by slower, offering you relaxing moments with your loved ones.

The cruise through Delta’s waterways will give you a glimpse of the abundant wildlife and also the traditional Romanian fishing villages. The kids will be thrilled to try birdwatching. As Delta it’s home to over 360 species of birds, your family will definitely enjoy a good show.

Book this 4-day itinerary for your family.

Itinerary 2: A Beach Holiday in Romania & Bulgaria in 7 days

If you visit Romania with toddlers, a beach holiday may be a great choice.

Day 1: Bucharest to Constanta transfer & Constanta guided tour Day 2: Beach day – Mamaia resort & Corbu beach Day 3: Vama Veche resort – Balcik Castle – Sunny beach Day 4: Sunny beach resort & Nessebar Day 5: Burgas & afternoon at the beach Day 6: Sozopol guided tour & the Black Sea wonders Day 7: Madara rider & transfer to Bucharest

If you were thinking of a summer vacation in Romania with your family, make sure you pinpoint this relaxing itinerary. This one promises a lot of fun not only on Romania’s shores but also some exciting activities in Bulgaria. Find out what are the top things to do in Romania with kids.

This vacation starts with a trip from Bucharest to Constanta, Romania’s most important port city. You’ll have the chance to explore the old town and see the famous art nouveau building of the old Casino.

Of course, one week at the beach means a few hours of sunbathing. You and your loved ones will enjoy the clean beaches of Mamaia resort and the serene silence of Corbu.

Your journey continues on one of the most famous beaches in Romania, Vama Veche. For a very long time, this place was recognized as a land of freedom where everyone is equal. Nowadays, you’ll find the perfect accommodation and atmosphere for your little ones.

Your trip moves forward with a top at the marvellous Balchik Castle. The Palace was the former summer residence of the Romanian Queen Maria, so it includes a gorgeous Botanical Garden. The place is still glorious since its creation in 1925.

Not long after, you and your little ones will have a lot of time to spend playing in the sand at Sunny Beach resort and Nessebar.

If you want to offer your kids more than just a regular day at the beach, stop in Burgas to see the famous pink lake, Atanasovsko, and walk around the most beautiful park Sea Garden.

Adding some finishing touches with a historical twist, Sozopol will be your next destination. This is probably the oldest city on the Bulgarian coast. A guided tour will offer the opportunity to see the Black Sea wonders.

The last destination in this itinerary covers a famous location, the Madara Horseman . The kids will be mesmerised by the grandeur of the carved bas-relief.

Read more details about this 7-day beach holiday .

Itinerary 3: Family holiday in Romania in 12 days

If you want to enjoy an authentic family trip, then a self-drive trip might be the next great idea.

Day 1: Welcome to Bucharest Day 2: Discover Bucharest Day 3: Carpathian mountains and Peles Castle Day 4: Brasov medieval city and the Bran Castle Day 5: Explore Sighisoara Day 6: Targu Mures and Turda salt mine Day 7: Discover the Apuseni mountains Day 8: Corvin Castle and the Bear cave Day 9: Deva fortress and Alba Iulia Day 10: Take a long walk in Sibiu Day 11: Drive on Transfagarasan Day 12: Goodbye, Romania!

Like any other trip, this one also starts from Bucharest and its stunning architecture. You’ll have plenty of time to discover the streets of the old city centre and perhaps some great exhibitions especially created for kids at Antipa Museum. Discover other attractions for kids in Bucharest . You’ll then start the real journey with a drive through the mysterious Carpathian Mountains at a stop at Peles Castle, a place that boasts a fairytale-like atmosphere.

Brasov, the medieval town with thick green forests and fortresses old as time, will invite you to discover its narrow street and stunning attractions. You might stop at the famous Bran Castle for a good scare and stories worthy of the next Halloween season.

Moving to a more colourful atmosphere, Sighisoara opens its citadel doors to discover important towers, secret passages, and vibrant streets. If your kids adore taking pictures, this is the place to raise some likes.

Your journey continues to Targu Mures, a city that will tell you that harmony is possible. You’ll get to see stunning architecture developed by both Romanian and Hungarian artists. Also, you’ll have the chance to step into the past with a walk in the old citadel.

As you travel to Transylvania, your little ones will love Turda’s Salt Mine. The underground park is filled with different facilities and several entertaining activities for parents and children.

Driving through the mesmerizing Apuseni Mountains surely is a unique experience. You’ll gaze at their natural beauty and emerald-green forests.

More castle legends mean more fun, and that is why your next stop will be the imposing Corvin Castle. This is indeed the largest medieval castle in Transylvania, representing the XVth century military architecture in SE Europe.

On a more natural path, you’ll have the chance to explore the famous “Bear cave”, unique in Romania and Eerie, thanks to its unique rock formations and the intact skeleton of a cave bear. Studies claim that the skeleton is more than 15,000 years old.

Soon after, a little sightseeing from Deva citadel will amaze your senses. Then a long walk in the White Citadel in Alba Iulia will make the little ones run free on the safe streets.

Yes, driving is fun for parents, but kids will want to stay active. They will have the chance to walk, run and play on the largest boulevard in Romania, Balcescu street in Sibiu. They will surely be intrigued by the “mysterious eyes” of the houses and the smell of sweets.

The self-drive tour ends with one of the most scenic roads in Romania, Transfagarasan, which offers a spectacular view not only for parents but for kids too.

Find out more about this 12-day itinerary in Romania .

Itinerary 4: Unesco sites in Romania in 14 days

Day 1: Arrival in Bucharest Day 2: Explore Bucharest Day 3: Monastery of Horezu and the land of Romanian pottery Day 4: Explore Sibiu Day 5: Let yourself charmed by Sighisoara Romania Day 6: Visit Biertan fortified church & Valea viilor Day 7: Sarmizegetusa Regia – an ancient fortress Day 8: Cluj Napoca – a modern city in Romania Day 9: Maramures tour Day 10: Visit Maramures – the secret part Day 11: Painted monasteries of Bucovina Day 12: Romania historical sites – Suceava Day 13: Back to Bucharest Day 14: Leaving Romania

Looking for something more unique to share with your loved ones? Perhaps a 14 days holiday discovering Romania’s UNESCO sites will be an excellent opportunity to enjoy culture, adventure, and relaxing moments.

This new journey starts in Bucharest, where you’ll have the time to relax and explore the city. Take a long walk in the city centre and share some artisanal ice cream in one of the modern cafes. Discover main attractions such as the Parliament palace (the second-largest building in the world after the Pentagon), the Romanian Atheneum, and much more.

As you travel to Transylvania, the first stop will be Horezu monastery, an important UNESCO site where the children will hear old legends about the monastery’s name. Also, they have a taste of an ancient Romanian craft, pottery. They will have fun getting their hands dirty and creating their trinkets.

The adventure continues with a stop in Sibiu, a medieval town you’ll adore. It’s a family-friendly town with cute cafes and many activities for the little ones.

Not far from Sibiu, an important Unesco world heritage site, Sighisoara awaits. Its colourful streets and tall towers remind you of fairytale villages and stories with princes and princesses. The kids will love the view from the clock tower and the sweets prepared everywhere on the streets.

Traditional villages are an essential part of Romania. This is why you’ll see two of them, Biertan and Valea Viilor, which also host some of Transylvania’s most impressive fortified churches.

You’ll walk into the past as you visit the 2000-year-old Dacian fortresses in the Orastie mountains, Sarmisegetusa, compared to Stonehenge in England. You’ll also have the chance to see the star-shaped citadel in Alba Iulia, which is beyond beautiful.

Moving to a more traditional land, Maramures county will offer you authentic country life. Yet, before that, you’ll visit the modern Cluj Napoca and Turda’s Salt mine, a true underground jewel.

In Maramures, you’ll experience peace and silence at the wooden churches and monasteries, taste the local cuisine and explore traditional villages. Also, you’ll have a good laugh at the Merry Cemetery in Sapanta. Your family will also have the chance to explore the unknown part of the area. To do that, you’ll travel by an old steam train that will offer the view of a lifetime.

Crossing the Carpathian mountains to Bucovina, your family will explore a mythical land. This part of Romania has impressive churches and monasteries, all having peculiar characteristics. In the heart of Bucovina, you’re going to visit Suceava and its medieval fortress. You can also spend some time in nature and enjoy the spectacular landscapes.

On your way back to Bucharest, you’ll stop to see one last fortress, Neamt fortress, ending the itinerary on a historical note.

Check the details of this 14-day Unesco tour .

Romania is a wonderful holiday destination since it is family-friendly and far less touristic than other European sites. These family-friendly itineraries can always be adapted to your preferences.

So, are you ready for your next family holiday in Romania? If yes, book your favourite itinerary today and we’ll take care of every aspect of your journey. You just have to pack your bags and tell your loved ones it’s time for a fun family adventure.

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Fun things to do in Romania with Kids

04/15/2019 By Traveling Canucks Leave a Comment Categories: Guest Post Romania

Today’s guest post was written by Marius Iliescu, the founder of Romanian Friend , a local initiative promoting handpicked tours that support responsible tourism. We visited Romania over 10 years ago, before we had kids, so we’re happy to share this guest post about family friendly things to do in Romania.

Things to do in Romania with Kids

Romania is a fascinating travel destination that is family friendly, relatively inexpensive and much less touristy when compared to other European nations. It’s filled with amazing natural beauty, fairy tale castles, medieval towns and delicious authentic food that will leave you wanting more. 

Today’s article shares the best family friendly places in Romania . This list was created by locals, so we hope it will inspire you to make Romania your next family vacation.

Danube Delta: nature’s miracle garden

After passing through 10 countries, the second longest river in Europe ends its journey in Romania and into the Black Sea. Before doing so, it splits into three channels that formed what is known as the Danube Delta . This natural biosphere, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , has unique beauty and is home to over 5,000 species of plants and animals. 

One of the best things to do in the Delta is bird watching. It’s home to over 250 species of birds. Local guides offer boat rides and binoculars so your kids will are sure to enjoy the experience. 

Libearty Bear Sanctuary

Forget the zoos and pay a visit to Libearty Bear Sanctuary . The Sanctuary is home to over 70 bears found abandoned in the wild, abused in circuses or other unfavorable conditions all over Europe.

The sanctuary is a private initiative that tries to create a habitat for bears as close to their natural one as possible. The bears are often seen resting and playing in the open meadows or by the fresh water pools.

As this is not a zoo, access and visits are possible only during certain hours and guided by staff from the sanctuary.

Get your $45 credit for AirBnB accommodations here .

Ride the Mocanita Steam Train

If there is one thing we know about kids – they love trains! The Mocanita Steam Train is located in the Northern region of Maramures , one of the most beautiful and representative regions for Romanian culture.

Travelling at slow speeds in the Vaser Valley, the Mocanita Steam Train was used for forestry exploitation before being abandoned and then converted into a tourist activity.

The locomotive pulling the open carts is called Mariuta (Little Marry) and is over 100 years old. Going on a slow train ride is one of the best things to do in Romania with your kids. There are four other routes to choose from, each passing through picturesque parts of Romania.

Bran Castle aka Dracula Castle

Even if you’re not interested in the Dracula myth, you can’t visit Romania without a trip to Bran Castle . Located in Transylvania, about 40 km from the city of Brasov , Bran Castle is an impressive medieval fortress perched on a hill.

Climb its towers and defense walls to admire the impressive landscapes that surround this picturesque area. Kids will enjoy learning about the vampire legend and exploring the tight windy staircases. 

Adventure and Andrenaline? Yes, please!

Since you are already in the Brasov area, consider some outdoor and family fun activities and pay a visit to Aventura Park . The park has 15 routes with different difficulty levels, obstacles and challenges, four of which are suitable for children under 8 years.

The routes consist of various activities, from tree climbing to hiking. The park is also home to the 307 meter long zip line known as “The Great Zip Line over the Lake”. This zip line is sure to give you a pump of adrenaline! 

Family fun on the Black Sea Coast

To enjoy some sun and beach, take a trip to one of the Romanian resorts on the Black Sea . The golden sands and crystal green waters attract families to affordable resorts such as Navodari, Eforie, Neptun, Venus or Olimp.

You will also find wild and secluded beaches and/or areas suitable for camping. The resorts of Mamaia or Vama Veche attract young people looking to party but also families looking for variety.

There are other interesting things to enjoy by the Black Sea, including The Museum of Natural Sciences , located in the city of Constanta and home to an Aquarium where they can see dolphins play.

Another fun thing to do with kids is to visit The Happiness Yard (Ograda Veseliei) Animal Farm where they can pet, feed and play with sheep, donkeys, geese and other friendly farm animals. 

The Berca Mud Volcanoes

The Berca Mud Volcanoes , located in Buzau County, make for an out-of-this-world landscape because of the constant mud eruptions that make the area seem like a patch of land from the Moon.

The volcanoes form due to an underground combination of mud and water that is brought to the surface by oilfield-generated gases. The lack of vegetation around the volcanoes, caused by the salt-heavy soil, adds to the bizarre atmosphere. 

Sighisoara Citadel

A small city located in the heart of Transylvania, Sighisoara is home to one of the best-preserved medieval citadels in Europe. It’s a popular tourist destination for its well-preserved walled old town , which is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The colorful townhouses within the citadel walls make it perfect for on-foot exploration. On guided tours, your kids will be entertained with stories over 300 years old about each house.

To enjoy the complete medieval experience in Sighisoara Citadel , the best time to visit is in July when the city hosts the Sighisoara Medieval Festival. Fearless knights, beautiful maids and medieval music, street shows, medieval crafts and traditional Romanian food on the citadel’s streets.

Sarmizegetusa Regia

A visit to Sarmizegetusa Regia will give your kids an exciting, out-of-the-classroom history lesson. The former capital of the Dacian Empire, the remnants of this fortress are filled with ancient history.

The historical site holds three distinct structures that were once fortifications, village areas and worship temples. Some of the artifacts discovered here, including golden bracelets, can be seen at the Romanian History Museum in Bucharest.

Autor bio: Marius Iliescu is the founder of Romanian Friend , a local initiative promoting handpicked tours with the best local guides so travellers can discover the authentic beauty of Romania while supporting responsible tourism. Plan your trip with help from a Romanian Friend and follow us on Facebook or Instagram .

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Travel advisory august 15, 2024, romania - level 1: exercise normal precautions.

Reissued after periodic review without changes. Exercise normal precautions in Romania.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Romania.  

If you decide to travel to Romania:

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
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Can I travel to Romania from the United States?

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Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Romania without restrictions.

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Heavy rain and flooding.

Heavy rain and flooding is causing disruption in eastern Romania. Check local conditions before you travel and follow the instructions of the Romanian authorities if you are in these areas. See ‘Getting help’ .

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see  general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see  general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about  safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

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If you choose to travel, research your destinations and  get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out  more about  FCDO  travel advice .

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Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 112 or go to the hospital.

Call 112 or go to the local police station.

Advice levels

• Torrential rain and flash flooding are affecting large parts of eastern Romania. Take emergency alerts and official warnings seriously, monitor the media and follow the advice of local authorities.
• The Russian invasion of Ukraine is ongoing. The security situation continues to be volatile. Do not travel from Romania to Ukraine. 
• Pickpocketing and bag-snatching occur. Thefts from hotel rooms are common. Assault and theft happen on intercity trains. Keep your personal belongings close. Lock hotel and train compartment doors from the inside.
• Drink spiking is an issue, especially in Bucharest's Old Town. Don't accept food, drinks, gum or cigarettes from people you've just met.
• Thieves posing as police officers may ask to see your ID and wallet. Romanian police won't stop you at random to do this. If you suspect someone is posing as a police officer, ask to see their identification.
• Financial, dating and marriage scams occur. Only use ATMs in banks, shops and shopping centres, especially at night. Always keep your credit card in sight. Be wary of people you've met online.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Rabies occurs in wild and domestic animals. If an animal scratches or bites you, get medical treatment immediately.
• West Nile virus can occur. Make sure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent.
• Measles has occurred in recent years. Ensure your vaccinations are up to date before you travel.
• Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common. Drink boiled or bottled water. Avoid ice cubes and raw or undercooked food. 
• Medical facilities and supplies are limited. You'll need to be evacuated if you become seriously ill or injured. Make sure your insurance covers this.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Penalties for drug offences are severe. They can include jail sentences of up to 20 years.
• By law, you must always carry a photo ID. Keep your passport in a safe place. Carry a photocopy.
• Taking photos of airports, military sites, or other secure locations is illegal.
• It's illegal to engage in sex work or have sexual relations with a person under 18. 
• Same-sex relationships are legal in Romania but not widely accepted. 

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• You don't need a visa if you're a tourist staying for less than 90 days or transiting through Romania. For other types of travel, you'll need a visa.
• Romania partially joined the Schengen area on 31 March. Border checks will cease between Romania and other Schengen countries for air or sea travel. Checks continue to be undertaken at land borders between Romania and other Schengen countries. 

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact an  Embassy or Consulate of Romania  for details about visas, customs and quarantine rules.

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Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  tells you what the Australian Government can and can't do to help when you're overseas.
• The Australian Consulate in Bucharest provides limited consular and passport assistance.
• You can get full consular help from the  Australian Embassy in Athens .
• Follow the embassy's social media accounts to stay up to date with local information.

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Border with ukraine.

The Russian invasion of Ukraine is ongoing. Heavy fighting is occurring in parts of eastern and southern Ukraine. Missile strikes and attacks are ongoing in some locations across the country, including in major cities. There have also been attacks on Ukraine's Danube ports along the border with Romania. The security situation continues to be volatile. Do not travel from Romania to Ukraine. There's a risk to life.

If you have arrived in Romania from Ukraine and are in need of assistance, contact the Consular Emergency Centre on 1300 555 135 in Australia or +61 2 6261 3305 outside Australia.

Pickpocketing and bag-snatching can happen, usually:

• near hotels
• on public transport, especially to and from the airport
• in train stations
• in airport terminals

Organised groups of thieves target travellers. These groups may include children.

Thefts from hotel rooms are common.

Thefts and  assaults  take place on intercity trains.

Drink spiking is an issue, especially in Centrul Vechi (the old town in Bucharest).

To protect yourself from crime:

• keep your personal belongings close, particularly near hotels and on public transport
• avoid walking in quiet and poorly lit streets, especially at night
• lock hotel and train compartment doors from the inside
• don't leave luggage unattended in your train compartment
• don't accept food, drinks, gum or cigarettes from people you've just met
• don't leave food or drinks unattended

More information:

• Avoiding danger
• Partying safely

Sometimes thieves pretend to be police officers and ask for ID and wallets.

Romanian police won't stop you at random to ask for your ID or wallet. However, they may conduct checks if you don't comply with local laws.

If you suspect someone is posing as a police officer:

• ask to see their identification
• don't hand over your personal belongings
• offer to go to the nearest police station with them to check their identity

Financial  scams , including credit card and ATM fraud, are common.

Internet fraud, including dating and marriage scams, also occur in Romania.

To reduce your risk of card theft and scams:

• only use ATMs in banks, shops and shopping centres, especially at night
• always keep your credit card in sight
• be alert to internet scams and other fraud
• be cautious if someone asks for your bank account details
• be wary of connections you make through internet dating schemes or chat rooms

Cyber security 

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you're connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:   

• Cyber security when travelling overseas  

Civil unrest and political tension

Protests occur in Bucharest and other major cities.

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent.

They may also disrupt services, traffic and public transport.

To stay safe:

• avoid demonstrations
• follow the advice of local authorities
• monitor local media
• Demonstrations and civil unrest

While there have been no recent terrorist attacks in Romania, they can still happen.

In recent years, terrorists have attacked several European cities.

European security services have also disrupted several planned attacks.

To protect yourself:

• be alert to possible threats
• report anything suspicious to the police
• monitor the media for possible threats
• take official warnings seriously

If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case of secondary attacks.

Terrorism is a threat worldwide.

Climate and natural disasters

Torrential rain and flash flooding are affecting large parts of eastern Romania, particularly the Galati and Vaslui counties. Take emergency alerts and official warnings seriously.

Serious  earthquakes  are rare, but Romania is in a seismically active region and earth tremors are common.

Wildfires are becoming more frequent in the summer months. Torrential rain and flash flooding can happen throughout the year.

If there's a  natural disaster  or  severe weather :

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof place
• keep in contact with your friends and family
• closely monitor the media and other local sources of information

Register with the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  to receive alerts on major disasters.

Tours and adventure travel

Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes operators of adventure activities.

If you plan to do an  adventure activity :

• check if your travel insurance policy covers it
• ask about and insist on minimum safety requirements
• always use available safety gear, such as life jackets or seatbelts

If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave. 

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need.

Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Medications

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Romania. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use

Health risks

Rabies  occurs in wild and domestic animals.

Ask your travel doctor about getting the rabies vaccine before you travel.

Get medical treatment immediately if an animal scratches or bites you.

• Infectious diseases

Tick-borne encephalitis

Tick-borne encephalitis  is a risk, especially if you travel through forests and rural areas.

Ticks are active in spring from March to June and autumn from September to December.

West Nile virus

West Nile virus (WNV)  is a disease spread by mosquitoes. There's no vaccine to prevent it.

The Romanian Health Ministry has confirmed cases of West Nile virus in:

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing

An outbreak of  measles  has spread across Romania in recent years.

Make sure your vaccinations are up to date before you travel.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases are common. These include:

• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To reduce your risk of illness:

• drink boiled or bottled water with intact seals
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Medical facilities in Romania are below Australian standards.

Some medical supplies are limited, particularly outside major cities.

Treatment can be expensive, and doctors often require payment up-front.

Ambulance services are unreliable in some areas outside larger cities. Psychological and psychiatric services are limited outside major cities.

Romania has 3 decompression chambers. All are in the port city of Constanta on the Black Sea coast.

If you become seriously ill or injured, you'll need to be evacuated to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences are severe. They can include prison sentences of up to 20 years.

• Carrying or using drugs

Always carry a photo ID.

Keep your passport in a safe place and carry a photocopy.

In Romania, it's illegal to:

• take photos of airports, military sites or other secure locations
• engage in sex work or pay for sexual services
• have sexual relations with a person under 18

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Local customs

Same-sex relationships are legal. However, they're not widely accepted in Romanian society.

Avoid public displays of affection.

• Advice for LGBTI travellers

Dual citizenship

Dual nationals are legally recognised in Romania.

• Dual nationals

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

You don't need a visa to enter as a tourist for up to 90 days. You'll need a visa for other types of travel.

Romania partially joined the  Schengen area  on 31 March. Border checks will cease between Romania and other Schengen countries for air or sea travel. 

Checks continue at land borders between Romania and other Schengen countries. 

If you're travelling without a visa, ensure your entire visit to the Schengen area, including your stay in Romania, is within the 90-day limit. This applies to all arrivals (air, land and sea).

• Visas and entry requirements in Europe and the Schengen Area

Other formalities

Travel with children.

Special entry rules apply to children aged under 18 years, including Australian-Romanian dual nationals.

The child must be accompanied by an adult and have their own passport.

If you're a parent or guardian  travelling alone with a child , you must carry a legal permission document signed by the non-travelling parent.

If this isn't possible, you'll need:

• a death certificate of a parent registered on the child's birth certificate
• a court order granting sole custody to the travelling (or authorising) parent

The documents must be translated into Romanian.

• Advice for people travelling with children
• Embassy or consulate of Romania

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting  a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate

Passport with 'X' gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can't guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

• LGBTI travellers  

The local currency is the Romanian Leu (RON).

Romania is a member of the European Union (EU).

Declare cash over 10,000 euros or equivalent if you're travelling between Romania and non-EU countries. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

If you don't declare or give incorrect information, you'll need to pay a fine.

You don't need to declare cash if you're travelling to or from another EU country.

Romania is largely a cash economy. However, credit card and debit card use is increasing.

It's illegal to change money on the streets. Exchange money at banks, large hotels or exchange bureaus.

Local travel

Accessibility.

If you have a  disability , you may encounter limited accessibility in some parts of Romania.

Public transport and building accessibility is better:

• in Bucharest and other large cities
• at international airports and large hotels

Driving permit

To drive in Romania, you'll need both:

• your current Australian driver's licence
• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

Driving without an IDP could void your travel and vehicle insurance.

If you stay longer than 185 days, you can apply for a Romanian driver's licence. Do this through the General Directorate for Driving Licences and Car Registration.

• DRPCIV (Romanian)
• Driving or riding

Road travel

Romania has the highest rate of road fatalities of all EU countries. Take care on the road.

Major city streets and inter-city highways are generally in good condition.

Most other roads are poorly maintained, badly lit and narrow.

Additional driving hazards include:

• poor driving standards
• wet and icy roads during winter
• stray dogs, wandering livestock and horse-drawn carts on the roads

If you need emergency roadside help, call 9271.

Learn Romanian traffic laws before you drive. Be aware that:

• the minimum age for driving is 18 years
• children aged under 12 years can't sit in the front seat of a vehicle
• driving with a blood alcohol reading above 0% is illegal
• use of mobile phones while driving is banned. Only hands-free is permitted
• wearing a seatbelt is mandatory

If you drink and drive, you may:

• lose your licence
• receive a prison sentence of up to 5 years

If you're involved in an accident, you must take a breathalyser test. Refusing to take this test is a crime.

Police strictly enforce traffic laws. They conduct frequent checks, including radar speed checks. You may lose your licence and have to pay a fine if caught.

You need a road toll sticker (Rovinieta) to use national roads. Buy one online or from petrol stations or border points. Driving without a sticker may lead to a fine.

Weather conditions

Road travel can be dangerous when roads are wet or covered with ice and snow.

Winter tyres are mandatory on snow-covered roads. Roads become snow-covered most often from November to March.

In extreme weather conditions:

• use tyre chains when driving
• check weather alerts on  meteoalarm

Vehicle insurance

Ask your travel insurer whether your policy covers you if you plan to hire a car or other vehicle.

Also, ask if any restrictions apply. Your cover may only be valid if you're licensed for that vehicle type in Australia.

Motorcycles

Ask your travel insurer whether your policy covers you when using a motorbike, quad bike or similar vehicle.

Always wear a helmet.

Authorised taxis are generally safe and reliable.

At airports, you can find them in ranks outside the arrivals terminal.

These vehicles:

• display taxi registration, licensing and tariff information
• have an airport sign on both sides of the vehicle

To avoid overcharging and other problems:

• only use authorised taxis
• avoid taxi service offers from touts at airports, train stations and other public places

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Romania's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

English-speaking operators are available.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australia has a consulate in Bucharest, headed by an Honorary Consul.

The consulate provides limited consular services and doesn't issue passports.

Australian Consulate, Bucharest

Honorary Consul The Group 3 Praga St, District 1 Bucharest 011801 Romania Phone: (+4 037) 406 0845 or (+4 021) 206 2200  Fax: (+4 031) 107 1378 Email:  [email protected]

You can get full consular help from the Australian Embassy in Athens.

Australian Embassy, Athens

5 Hatziyianni Mexi Street, Level 2 Athens 115 28, Greece Phone: +30 210 870 4000 Fax: +30 210 870 4111 Website:  greece.embassy.gov.au Facebook:  Australia in Greece

Check the Embassy website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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Travel Tips: Visiting Ireland With Kids

Ireland is known for its hospitality, especially with families.  I was lucky enough to do a summer trip to Ireland with my two boys (8 and 10) where we visited family and road tripped through Northern Ireland!  We were there in July and the weather was just perfect with mild temperatures and very little rain. 

As usual, I  aimed to plan a trip with a busy and relaxing balance.  Creating that easy, laid-back schedule was a lot of work, but the boys are still at great ages to explore and try new things. 

I'm sharing this itinerary because for all of us, the trip felt like a huge success. Planning any trip requires so much research, I relied on others for ideas and advice; I hope this helps guide your travel as well. 

Day 1: LAX - Dublin via Aer Lingus

Day 2-10: Athlone is a cute town centrally located on Lough Ree and home to Sean's Bar , Ireland's oldest pub dating back to 900 AD. We stayed at the  Hodson Bay Hotel  which is amazing for families and adjacent to Bay Sports , (Ireland’s largest inflatable water park) located on the shores of Lough Ree.

Some of our other favorite local activities were  Athlone Viking Tour  along Lough Ree, Roscommon Racecourse , and  Tullamore Distillery

Day 11: Road trip to Belfast when I learned to drive on the other side!  We stayed at the  Malone Hotel , which was big enough for our group, but not centrally located, so it wasn't ideal.  The Titanic Museum was the first stop for us, and I'd say it's a must! The museum tells the story of the ill-fated ship and Belfast's shipbuilding history. 

In the morning, we scheduled a Black Taxi Tour , the city has such interesting history, and the boys had fun signing the Peace Wall.

Day 12: We traveled to Deery and stayed at the  Maldron Hotel , it fit our group and seemed centrally located.  Along the way we stopped at Giant's Causeway and the Dark Hedges, a famous tree-lined avenue featured in Game of Thrones.  One of our favorite stops was  Harry's Shack , a charming beachside restaurant near Portstewart.  The food was great and there was plenty of space for the boys to run free!  

Wild Alpaca Way  was our last stop, and it was well worth the journey to Donegal.  Everyone was assigned their own Alpaca to walk along the coast for about 30 minutes. The staff led the way, stopping for many photo ops and questions!  

Day 13-14: Dublin: Our  AirBNB  was perfect for our group, nicely decorated and fully stocked.  Dublin is compact city, easy to navigate, and full of engaging activities for kids. We all loved the  Kilmainham Gaol Museum  and Merion Square Playground and ended the night with table by the stage at  The Church Cafe . The Irish music and dancing made it the  perfect spot for our last meal in Ireland! 

We didn't do it this time, but the Guiness Storehouse , Hop On Hop Off bus tour and Book of Kells at Trinity College are definitely recommended.  

Day 15: Dublin - LAX via Aer Lingus

Two weeks abroad has proved to be a perfect amount of time for us, especially when it's leisurely and a good mix of adventure and relaxation. 

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Travel Ideas For Trips That’ll Heal And Celebrate Your Inner Child

Traveling for your inner child might be one of the most fulfilling, healing, and fun experiences you'll ever have.

Natasha Decker • Sep 17, 2024

Traveling for your inner child might be one of the most fulfilling, healing, and fun experiences you’ll ever have.

Travel Noire recently  reported  on Orlando-based content creator Anisa Carty’s 27th birthday trip to The Inn at Entrada in St. George, Utah. The lodging is famously where  High School Musical 2  was filmed back in 2007. On TikTok, the Disney fan called the experience “magical” and said she cried tears of joy, living her childhood dream. Anisa described the visit as “healing for [her] inner child.”

Her inspiring trip left us considering how others can travel to treat and nourish the forever young, innocent, and tender parts of themselves. While traveling based on your young heart’s desires may seem silly, it can also be rewarding and liberating. With the freedom, autonomy, and finances of an adult, why not travel for the child who didn’t have their own personal resources to do so before?

After all, honoring the child deep down could be one of the best gifts you give yourself as an adult. Whether an extended international vacation or a simple staycation, there are travel ideas for your inner child that might be accessible to you.

How To Get Inspiration For Travel Ideas That Cater To Your Inner Child

Quite simply, ideas for the most personalized and fulfilling trips for your inner child will be birthed after deeply connecting with your younger self. The mental avenues you might walk down while exploring travel ideas are endless. It’s time to tap into your imagination.

Like Anisa, an option is traveling where your favorite childhood movie was filmed. If you were more of a bookworm, go spend time in the setting of your favorite childhood novel. 

Go to a place you were obsessed with as a kid, or somewhere significant to a beloved childhood memory. Consider a craft or sport you enjoyed as a child. Where did it originate? Can you take classes from authentic or longtime masters in the activity’s place of origin?

A different approach is thinking about what you always desired as a child and how a trip can reward you with it. If you grew up in a noisy, hectic, and bustling environment but longed for some quiet, get your stillness on a camping trip or solo city break. Don’t be afraid to get silly with it either. If your parents never allowed you to eat candy and chocolate, go treat your sweet tooth. There are chocolatiers in Belgium, and candy bars at Hershey Park!

Again, you don’t have to go far. If you can’t travel, make the most of  staycation ideas . Treat your inner child to time at a waterpark, amusement park, haunted house, pumpkin patch, etc. Take a craft class, explore outside your regular routine, and do something to feed your wholesome young wonder — even if it’s in your  childhood hometown.

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