Famous Landmarks in Romania
Romania, located in Southeast Europe, is a land of diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. From medieval castles and fortified churches to stunning natural wonders such as the Carpathian Mountains and the Danube Delta, Romania offers a wide range of attractions for travelers to explore. With its mix of old-world charm and modern amenities, Romania has become an increasingly popular destination for tourists seeking authentic experiences and off-the-beaten-path adventures.
Here, we will delve into the top 10 famous landmarks in Romania by popularity, providing an overview of each site along with practical information such as location, ticket prices, nearby airports, railway stations, and special considerations for visitors.
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Bran Castle
Bran Castle, often referred to as “Dracula’s Castle,” is a medieval fortress located near the town of Bran in the Brasov County of Romania. Perched atop a rocky cliff overlooking the picturesque landscape of Transylvania, Bran Castle is renowned for its association with the legendary vampire Count Dracula, inspired by the character from Bram Stoker’s novel. The castle’s imposing towers, narrow passageways, and Gothic architecture attract visitors from around the world, eager to explore its dark and mysterious past. Today, Bran Castle serves as a museum showcasing artifacts and exhibits related to Romanian history and folklore, as well as the Dracula legend.
Location: Bran Castle is located near the town of Bran in the Brasov County of Romania, approximately 30 kilometers southwest of Brasov city.
Ticket Price: The ticket prices for Bran Castle vary depending on the type of tour and access to certain areas of the castle. Generally, admission fees range from 40 to 50 Romanian Lei (RON) for adults and 25 to 35 RON for children.
Nearby Airports: The nearest major airport to Bran Castle is Henri Coanda International Airport (OTP) in Bucharest, approximately 180 kilometers southeast of Bran. Another option is Sibiu International Airport (SBZ), which is about 180 kilometers northwest of Bran.
Railway Stations: The nearest railway station to Bran Castle is in Brasov, approximately 30 kilometers away. From Brasov, visitors can take a bus or taxi to reach the castle.
Special Attention: Visitors should be prepared for crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons. Additionally, some areas of the castle may have narrow staircases and low ceilings, so visitors with mobility issues should take caution.
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Peleș Castle
Peleș Castle is a magnificent Neo-Renaissance palace nestled in the Carpathian Mountains near the town of Sinaia in Prahova County. Built in the late 19th century as a royal residence for King Carol I of Romania, Peleș Castle is renowned for its stunning architecture, opulent interiors, and extensive art collections. The castle’s picturesque setting, surrounded by lush forests and mountain vistas, adds to its allure, making it one of Romania’s most iconic landmarks. Visitors to Peleș Castle can explore its lavish rooms, including the Grand Hall, Music Room, and Armoury, adorned with intricate woodcarvings, stained glass windows, and exquisite furnishings.
Location: Peleș Castle is located near the town of Sinaia in Prahova County, approximately 135 kilometers north of Bucharest.
Ticket Price: The ticket prices for Peleș Castle vary depending on the type of tour and access to certain areas of the castle. Generally, admission fees range from 50 to 100 Romanian Lei (RON) for adults and 10 to 30 RON for children.
Nearby Airports: The nearest major airport to Peleș Castle is Henri Coanda International Airport (OTP) in Bucharest, approximately 135 kilometers south of Sinaia.
Railway Stations: Sinaia has a railway station served by trains from Bucharest and other major cities in Romania. From the Sinaia railway station, visitors can take a taxi or local bus to reach Peleș Castle.
Special Attention: Visitors should note that photography is not allowed inside the castle, and backpacks or large bags must be left at the cloakroom. Additionally, guided tours are available in multiple languages, but it’s advisable to check the schedule in advance.
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Corvin Castle
Corvin Castle, also known as Hunyadi Castle or Hunedoara Castle, is a medieval fortress located in Hunedoara, Hunedoara County, in western Romania. Built in the 15th century by John Hunyadi, one of Romania’s most prominent medieval rulers, Corvin Castle is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and military engineering. The castle’s imposing towers, drawbridge, and fortified walls evoke a sense of medieval grandeur, while its interior features impressive halls, galleries, and courtyards adorned with medieval art and decorations. Corvin Castle is steeped in history and legend, making it a popular destination for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and photographers alike.
Location: Corvin Castle is located in Hunedoara, Hunedoara County, approximately 170 kilometers northwest of Bucharest.
Ticket Price: The ticket prices for Corvin Castle vary depending on the type of tour and access to certain areas of the castle. Generally, admission fees range from 25 to 30 Romanian Lei (RON) for adults and 15 to 20 RON for children.
Nearby Airports: The nearest major airport to Corvin Castle is Traian Vuia International Airport (TSR) in Timisoara, approximately 200 kilometers west of Hunedoara.
Railway Stations: Hunedoara has a railway station served by trains from Timisoara, Cluj-Napoca, and other major cities in Romania. From the Hunedoara railway station, visitors can take a taxi or local bus to reach Corvin Castle.
Special Attention: Visitors should be aware that some parts of Corvin Castle may have uneven terrain and steep staircases, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Guided tours are available in multiple languages, but it’s advisable to check the schedule in advance.
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Merry Cemetery (Cimitirul Vesel)
The Merry Cemetery, known locally as Cimitirul Vesel, is a unique and colorful cemetery located in the village of Sapanta in Maramures County, northern Romania. Unlike traditional cemeteries, which are often somber and solemn places, the Merry Cemetery is renowned for its cheerful and whimsical atmosphere. Each gravestone in the cemetery is adorned with a colorful wooden cross depicting humorous and poignant scenes from the life of the deceased, along with witty epitaphs written in verse. The Merry Cemetery is not only a place of remembrance but also a celebration of life, love, and the human spirit, attracting visitors from around the world with its quirky charm and folk artistry.
Location: The Merry Cemetery is located in the village of Sapanta in Maramures County, approximately 75 kilometers northwest of Baia Mare.
Ticket Price: There is no admission fee to visit the Merry Cemetery, but donations are welcome to support the maintenance and preservation of the site.
Nearby Airports: The nearest major airport to the Merry Cemetery is Baia Mare Airport (BAY), approximately 75 kilometers southeast of Sapanta.
Railway Stations: Sapanta does not have a railway station. The nearest railway station is in Baia Mare, approximately 75 kilometers away. From the Baia Mare railway station, visitors can take a taxi or local bus to reach the Merry Cemetery.
Special Attention: Visitors should be respectful when visiting the Merry Cemetery and refrain from touching or damaging the gravestones. Photography is allowed, but it’s important to be mindful of the solemnity of the site and the privacy of the families of the deceased.
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Palace of the Parliament
The Palace of the Parliament, also known as the People’s House (Casa Poporului), is a colossal government building located in the heart of Bucharest, the capital city of Romania. Constructed during the communist era under the leadership of dictator Nicolae Ceausescu, the Palace of the Parliament is one of the largest administrative buildings in the world, covering an area of over 365,000 square meters. The building’s monumental architecture, featuring neoclassical and socialist-realist elements, is matched only by its lavish interior, which includes marble halls, gilded ceilings, and ornate chandeliers. Today, the Palace of the Parliament serves as the seat of the Romanian Parliament and is open to the public for guided tours, offering insights into the country’s history, politics, and architectural heritage.
Location: The Palace of the Parliament is located in central Bucharest, near Union Square (Piata Unirii).
Ticket Price: The ticket prices for guided tours of the Palace of the Parliament vary depending on the type of tour and access to certain areas of the building. Generally, admission fees range from 45 to 80 Romanian Lei (RON) for adults and 25 to 50 RON for children.
Nearby Airports: The nearest major airport to the Palace of the Parliament is Henri Coanda International Airport (OTP) in Bucharest, approximately 20 kilometers north of the city center.
Railway Stations: Bucharest has several railway stations, including Gara de Nord (North Railway Station), which is the main railway hub in the city. From Gara de Nord, visitors can take the metro or a taxi to reach the Palace of the Parliament.
Special Attention: Visitors should be prepared for security checks and restrictions on photography inside the Palace of the Parliament. Guided tours are available in multiple languages, but it’s advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
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Painted Monasteries of Bucovina
The Painted Monasteries of Bucovina are a series of UNESCO World Heritage sites located in the northeastern region of Romania, known for their vibrant frescoes and religious significance. Built between the 15th and 16th centuries, these monasteries are renowned for their exterior and interior frescoes, which depict scenes from the Bible, saints, martyrs, and medieval life in intricate detail. The most famous among them include Voronet Monastery, Moldovita Monastery, Sucevita Monastery, and Humor Monastery, each offering a unique glimpse into Romania’s cultural and artistic heritage. Visitors to the Painted Monasteries of Bucovina can marvel at the stunning frescoes, explore the monastic complexes, and learn about the history and spirituality of Orthodox Christianity in Romania.
Location: The Painted Monasteries of Bucovina are located in the northeastern region of Romania, primarily in Suceava County.
Ticket Price: The ticket prices for visiting the Painted Monasteries of Bucovina vary depending on the number of monasteries visited and whether guided tours are included. Generally, admission fees range from 10 to 20 Romanian Lei (RON) per monastery.
Nearby Airports: The nearest major airport to the Painted Monasteries of Bucovina is Suceava International Airport (SCV), located near the city of Suceava.
Railway Stations: Suceava has a railway station served by trains from Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and other major cities in Romania. From Suceava, visitors can take a taxi or local bus to reach the Painted Monasteries of Bucovina.
Special Attention: Visitors should dress modestly when visiting the monasteries out of respect for their religious significance. Photography may be allowed inside the monasteries, but flash photography and video recording may be restricted.
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Transfagarasan Highway
The Transfagarasan Highway is a breathtaking mountain road that winds its way through the Fagaras Mountains in central Romania, connecting the regions of Transylvania and Wallachia. Stretching over 90 kilometers, the highway is renowned for its stunning scenery, hairpin bends, and dramatic elevation changes, reaching heights of over 2,000 meters above sea level. Built in the 1970s as a strategic military route, the Transfagarasan Highway has since become a popular tourist attraction, offering panoramic views of alpine landscapes, glacial lakes, and rugged peaks. Visitors to the Transfagarasan Highway can enjoy scenic drives, hiking adventures, and photography opportunities amidst some of Romania’s most spectacular natural scenery.
Location: The Transfagarasan Highway runs through the Fagaras Mountains in central Romania, between the cities of Sibiu and Pitesti.
Ticket Price: There is no admission fee to drive on the Transfagarasan Highway, but visitors should budget for fuel and potential toll fees.
Nearby Airports: The nearest major airports to the Transfagarasan Highway are Sibiu International Airport (SBZ) and Bucharest Henri Coanda International Airport (OTP).
Railway Stations: The Transfagarasan Highway does not have railway stations, but visitors can access nearby towns such as Sibiu and Pitesti by train.
Special Attention: Visitors should be aware that the Transfagarasan Highway is subject to closures during the winter months due to snow and adverse weather conditions. It’s advisable to check road conditions and weather forecasts before planning a visit.
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Sighisoara Citadel
Sighisoara Citadel is a historic medieval fortress located in the town of Sighisoara in Mures County, central Romania. Founded in the 12th century by German craftsmen known as the Transylvanian Saxons, Sighisoara Citadel is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe, with its cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and fortified towers. The citadel’s most iconic landmark is the Clock Tower, a 64-meter-high Gothic structure dating back to the 14th century, which houses a museum showcasing the history and culture of Sighisoara. Visitors to Sighisoara Citadel can explore its medieval streets, visit historical landmarks such as the Church on the Hill and the Vlad Dracul House, and immerse themselves in the town’s rich cultural heritage.
Location: Sighisoara Citadel is located in the town of Sighisoara in Mures County, approximately 120 kilometers northwest of Brasov.
Ticket Price: There is no admission fee to enter Sighisoara Citadel, but there may be fees for visiting certain attractions or museums within the citadel.
Nearby Airports: The nearest major airport to Sighisoara is Targu Mures International Airport (TGM), approximately 50 kilometers southeast of the town.
Railway Stations: Sighisoara has a railway station served by trains from Brasov, Cluj-Napoca, and other major cities in Romania.
Special Attention: Visitors should be prepared to climb stairs and navigate uneven terrain within Sighisoara Citadel, as the medieval streets and alleys may be challenging for those with mobility issues. Guided tours are available in multiple languages, but it’s advisable to check the schedule in advance.
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Bigar Waterfall
Bigar Waterfall is a spectacular natural wonder located in the Caras-Severin County of western Romania, near the border with Serbia. Nestled in the heart of the Cheile Nerei-Beusnita National Park, Bigar Waterfall is renowned for its unique horseshoe shape and cascading veil of water that flows over moss-covered rocks. Fed by an underground spring, the waterfall creates a mesmerizing display of light and motion, particularly during the spring and summer months when the surrounding foliage is lush and green. Visitors to Bigar Waterfall can hike along scenic trails, picnic in the park, and marvel at the beauty of one of Romania’s most enchanting natural landmarks.
Location: Bigar Waterfall is located in the Cheile Nerei-Beusnita National Park in the Caras-Severin County of western Romania, approximately 90 kilometers southwest of Resita.
Ticket Price: There is no admission fee to visit Bigar Waterfall, as it is located within a national park.
Nearby Airports: The nearest major airport to Bigar Waterfall is Traian Vuia International Airport (TSR) in Timisoara, approximately 180 kilometers west of the waterfall.
Railway Stations: The nearest railway stations to Bigar Waterfall are in Resita and Caransebes, both of which are served by trains from Timisoara and other major cities in Romania.
Special Attention: Visitors should be prepared for moderate hiking on uneven terrain, as well as potential slippery conditions near the waterfall. It’s advisable to wear sturdy footwear and bring insect repellent, especially during the warmer months.
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Transfagarasan Highway
The Transfagarasan Highway is a breathtaking mountain road that winds its way through the Fagaras Mountains in central Romania, connecting the regions of Transylvania and Wallachia. Stretching over 90 kilometers, the highway is renowned for its stunning scenery, hairpin bends, and dramatic elevation changes, reaching heights of over 2,000 meters above sea level. Built in the 1970s as a strategic military route, the Transfagarasan Highway has since become a popular tourist attraction, offering panoramic views of alpine landscapes, glacial lakes, and rugged peaks. Visitors to the Transfagarasan Highway can enjoy scenic drives, hiking adventures, and photography opportunities amidst some of Romania’s most spectacular natural scenery.
Location: The Transfagarasan Highway runs through the Fagaras Mountains in central Romania, between the cities of Sibiu and Pitesti.
Ticket Price: There is no admission fee to drive on the Transfagarasan Highway, but visitors should budget for fuel and potential toll fees.
Nearby Airports: The nearest major airports to the Transfagarasan Highway are Sibiu International Airport (SBZ) and Bucharest Henri Coanda International Airport (OTP).
Railway Stations: The Transfagarasan Highway does not have railway stations, but visitors can access nearby towns such as Sibiu and Pitesti by train.
Special Attention: Visitors should be aware that the Transfagarasan Highway is subject to closures during the winter months due to snow and adverse weather conditions. It’s advisable to check road conditions and weather forecasts before planning a visit.