2. Smack in the center of Romania is Brasov, a harmonious mash-
up of traditional charm and modern city life. Ride a double-decker
bus around the city to get your bearings and see the sites whiz by,
then hop off to squeeze down Strada Sforii, the narrowest street in
Europe. Take a day trip to see the fortified church of Prejmer, the
Libearty brown bear sanctuary, and the deliciously ominous Bran
Castle, otherwise known as Dracula’s Castle.
3. Cluj-Napoca is the unofficial capital of Transylvania,
and though you (probably) won’t find vampires here, you
can explore castles, fortresses, botanical gardens,
museums and parks. Cluj-Napoca has a vibrant arts scene
that embraces both the traditional and the progressive.
There are plenty of opportunities to enjoy classical
concerts, theatrical performances, puppet shows and
music of every genre, from jazz to modern pop to
electronica.
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4. Sinaia is famous for its natural beauty and the rumored
medicinal properties of its mineral springs. Known as “the
Carpathian Pearl,” it’s a lovely mountain town whose main
attractions are castles, alpine activities like hiking and skiing,
and a 17th-century monastery that is still inhabited today.
5. The Baroque Palace of Oradea is simply epic. Now a
museum, the 18th-century building is home to an
outdoor bronze and marble statue park, Transylvanian
folk art and a collection of animal remains that includes
dinosaur fossils. You could spend days here, but try to
make some time for other Oradea attractions, such as
the beautiful Art Nouveau buildings of Str. Republicii, the
astronomical clock of the Biserica cu Lună, and the Băile
Felix thermal spa.
6. In northern Romania near the Ukrainian border and once
the capital of Moldova, today Suceava is a city of just over
100,000. Though fairly industrial, the city does have some
great historical attractions, like the 14th-century Princely
Court fortress and several medieval churches. The Bucovina
History Museum is also popular. Best of all, Suceava is the
perfect jumping off point for exploring the famous painted
monasteries of Bucovina, set amid the gorgeous countryside
just outside of the city.
7. The historic center of Sibiu is still partially enclosed
by its original 12th-century medieval walls. Begin your
visit in the Piata Mare, home to the Brukenthal Palace,
containing the main halls of the Brukenthal National
Museum. Descend the Passage of the Stairs down into
lower Sibiu, and make sure to be on your best behavior
as you cross the Bridge of Lies. A trek in the nearby
Făgăraș Mountains will lead you past breathtaking ridges
and serene glacial lakes.
8. Mamaia is a popular beach resort on the coast of the
Romanian Black Sea. The fine white sand beaches are unusual
for this part of the world, so tourists flock here during the
summer months for a tropical experience that’s close to
home. Crush Beach is great for people-watching and water
spots. At night, the area throbs with club goers and beautiful
party people.
9. The majority of the Danube Delta, Europe’s second
largest river delta, lies in Romania. Originally part of the
Black Sea, the Danube Delta is a good place to observe
nature. It is home to many unique species of plants and
animals in Europe, as well as contains 23 different
ecosystems, including some of the world’s largest
wetlands. Previous visitors rave about the spectacular
sunsets and highly recommend taking a slow boat ride
on the river.
10. Also located in Transylvania, Sighisoara is one of the
best places to visit in Romania due to its beautiful
preserved walled town. During the 12th century
German craftsmen and merchants, The Transylvanian
Saxons, were invited here by the King of Hungary to
settle and defend the frontier. They established a
thriving trading town here and the citadel visitors see
today.
11. Snuggled between Romania’s Eastern and Southern Carpathians, about
100 km north of Bucharest, Prahova Valley is the country’s most popular
destination for mountain lovers. Prahova Valley’s main resorts include Predeal,
Azuga, Busteni, and Sinaia. The latter is strongly related to Romania’s Royal Family,
its glamorous past still echoing through places like the railway station – which has
been designed exclusively for the Royal Family and their noble guests; the
gorgeous Peles Castle – a Neo-Renaissance jewel used as a summer retreat by King
Carol I of Romania; and the storied Sinaia Casino, whose lavish interiors were once
hosting grandiose parties for the European elite.