5 Places You Should Visit in Romania this Spring
Hi everyone! Spring is finally here, the weather is warmer, so it is time for a bit of traveling! Romania is a destination that has a lot to offer, especially during the spring season. In this article, we will explore five places you have to visit in Romania this spring.
1. Brasov
Brasov, located in the heart of Transylvania, is one of the most picturesque cities in Romania. It is surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains, and since it is not so far away from Bucharest, it makes it the best getaway. The city's old town is filled with narrow streets, charming houses, and colorful buildings. One of the most famous streets in Brasov is called the Rope Street and it's officially the narrowest street in Eastern Europe and the third narrowest in Europe.
One of the city's most iconic landmarks is the Black Church, a Gothic-style cathedral that dates back to the 14th century. The church is the largest and most important religious monument in Brașov, named after the damage it suffered during the Great Fire of 1689
For those of you who love nature, the spring season is the perfect time to go hiking in the nearby mountains. You will love the “Hollywood sign” on top of Tampa Mountain! You can hike up to the top of Tampa Mountain for stunning views of the city. If you had too many papanasi (read all about Romanian food in this blog post), you can take a cable car to the top.
2. Sibiu
You can travel to both Sibiu and Brasov in the same trip, as they are located in Transylvania. Sibiu is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, which has given it the nickname "the city with eyes" due to its unique windows.
The Brukenthal National Museum is one of the most popular places to visit in Sibiu. It has an impressive collection of art and artifacts from Romania and other places. The museum is situated in a beautiful Baroque-style building and is definitely worth a visit.
I strongly recommend you also visit Castelul De Lut Valea Zanelor (situated in Porumbacu de Sus). There, you will find fairytale-style tiny castles and a beautiful garden. I suggest you avoid going during the weekend as it can get very crowded!
3. Danube Delta
The Danube Delta is one of the most unique and biodiverse regions in Europe. It is located in the Eastern part of Romania and is where the Danube River meets the Black Sea. The delta is home to over 5,000 species of plants and animals, including some rare and endangered species.
During the spring season, the Danube Delta comes to life with a range of migratory birds and other wildlife. It is a great destination for birdwatching, hiking, and exploring the local culture. Visitors can take a boat tour of the delta or go on a guided hike through the wilderness. I recommend you stay in a local’s house and try the traditional food there (mainly seafood). It is indeed a unique experience!
4. Cluj-Napoca
Cluj-Napoca is a vibrant university city in the heart of Transylvania. It offers plenty of things to see and do during the spring. You can visit the Botanical Garden, which is home to over 10,000 plant species from around the world. Spring is actually the best time to visit, since the flowers and trees are in bloom!
Then, take a stroll in the central park, a popular spot for locals to relax and take a break from everyday life. You can rent a bike or a boat, have a picnic, or enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the cafes. There is also a shopping mall nearby if you need to buy anything.
While in Cluj-Napoca, you have to take some time to explore the Old Town. Head to St. Michael's Church, the Banffy Palace, or the Pharmacy Museum, which is the first pharmacy in Transylvania.
If you have access to a car, I recommend you visit the Turda Salt Mine. It is one of the most impressive underground wonders in Europe. The Turda Salt Mine is a former salt mine turned tourist attraction, with underground lakes, amusement parks, and a museum, not to mention the health benefits you get while being there!
5. Oradea
While situated a bit further away, Oradea is one of my favourite cities in Romania. There are plenty of things you can do in Oradea during spring! You can visit the Oradea Fortress, one of the most iconic landmarks in the city, with a rich history dating back to the 12th century. I recommend you take a tour.
Then, you can take a walk in the Crisul Repede Park. This beautiful park is located in the heart of the city and offers a peaceful break from the hustle and bustle. Grab some food and have a picnic there, the ingredients for a perfect spring afternoon.
Here are the five places you shouldn’t miss in Romania this spring, but I am sure that you can discover more hidden gems yourself! Maybe the most beautiful place is just the one where you are doing your mobility. Regardless, enjoy your time, and we hope that you will leave Romania with many amazing memories!
Last but not least, let us know if you visited any of these cities and which one you liked most by joining the discussions on the Living Abroad forum!