When I first started planning a trip to Romania, I honestly had no idea just how diverse and captivating this country would be. From storybook castles and cobbled medieval towns to remote mountain roads and peaceful river deltas, Romania is a place that constantly surprises you.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, part of a small group, or considering a private tour, this 7-day itinerary will help you discover some of the country’s most iconic and unforgettable places. It’s the perfect blend of history, culture, nature, and local flavor.
Day 1: Bucharest – Welcome to Romania’s Capital
Your adventure kicks off in Bucharest, a city full of contrast and charm. Often called the “Little Paris of the East,” Bucharest is where old-world elegance meets gritty post-communist realism. After landing at Henri Coandă Airport, I recommend settling into your hotel and hitting the streets—there’s no better way to shake off the travel fatigue than a walk through the buzzing historic center.
Don’t miss:
- Palace of the Parliament – It’s impossible to ignore this colossal relic of Ceaușescu’s rule. Taking a guided tour will give you a better understanding of Romania’s communist past and the building’s controversial legacy.
- Old Town (Lipscani) – This is the city’s soul. It’s where you’ll find cobbled alleys lined with eclectic bars, cool cafes, and late-night eateries. Great for people-watching or simply soaking in the local vibe.
- Calea Victoriei – Stroll along this historic avenue to admire elegant architecture, museums, and some of Bucharest’s finest shopping spots.
Tip: A private walking tour here can really elevate your experience—you’ll uncover stories behind the buildings and stumble upon tucked-away gems most tourists miss.
Day 2: Castles, Myths & Mountains in Transylvania
On your second day, it’s time to hit the road toward Transylvania—a land of towering castles, misty mountains, and legends that linger in the air. You’ll pass through the scenic Prahova Valley before reaching the heart of Romania’s most iconic region.
Highlights:
- Peleș Castle (Sinaia) – This fairy-tale palace is unlike anything else in Europe. Nestled in the Carpathians, it was the summer home of Romania’s royal family and it’s simply breathtaking inside and out.
- Bran Castle – Known globally as “Dracula’s Castle,” it has only a faint link to Vlad the Impaler—but the drama of its hilltop setting and fortress-like appearance is reason enough to visit.
- Brașov – Finish the day in Brașov, a charming medieval city with colorful buildings, a towering Gothic church, and vibrant squares perfect for evening drinks or a hearty Romanian dinner.
Overnight: Stay in Brașov, ideally somewhere close to the main square so you can take an evening stroll through the beautifully lit streets.
Day 3: Saxon Villages & Timeless Fortified Churches
Day three takes you even deeper into the rural heart of Transylvania, where ancient Saxon villages and fortified churches speak to centuries of multi-ethnic history and quiet resilience.
Must-see stops:
- Viscri – This UNESCO-listed village is one of the most picturesque places I’ve ever been. The fortified church is beautifully preserved, and the sense of peace here is unreal. Locals still use horse-drawn carts and bake bread in communal ovens—it’s like stepping back in time.
- Sighișoara – Possibly the most magical town in Romania, this walled medieval citadel is the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler. Be sure to climb the Clock Tower and wander its cobbled alleyways.
- Biertan – Surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills, Biertan’s massive fortified church is another UNESCO site with an ingenious lock system that once protected villagers from invaders.
Overnight: You can either return to Brașov or choose a guesthouse in one of the villages for a more rustic and authentic stay. I spent a night in a renovated Saxon home and woke up to roosters and homemade jam—highly recommend!
Day 4: Sibiu – Culture, Cobblestones & Charming Squares
Sibiu is one of those places where you arrive and instantly feel like you’ve found somewhere special. It’s elegant, artistic, and full of personality.
Top things to do:
- Big Square (Piața Mare) – Lined with pastel buildings, museums, and cafes, this is the heart of Sibiu and a great starting point.
- Bridge of Lies – Legend says it creaks when someone tells a lie while standing on it. True or not, it’s a fun photo op!
- Brukenthal Palace – Home to one of the oldest art museums in Southeast Europe, showcasing an impressive collection of classical and contemporary works.
Overnight: Stay in Sibiu’s old town—there’s something magical about strolling under lanterns through the quiet streets after dark.
Day 5: Driving the Transfagarasan – Romania’s Most Epic Road
Day five is an adrenaline rush and a visual feast all in one. The Transfagarasan Highway, famously dubbed “the best road in the world” by Top Gear, winds through the Făgăraș Mountains with hairpin curves and jaw-dropping views.
What to see:
- Balea Lake – A pristine glacial lake, perfect for a break or short hike.
- Poenari Fortress – Unlike Bran Castle, this was a real residence of Vlad the Impaler. The 1,480-step climb is no joke, but the views are worth every drop of sweat.
- Vidraru Dam – A massive hydroelectric dam with panoramic photo ops galore.
Overnight: Stay in a mountain chalet or head back to Sibiu depending on how far you drive. I stayed near the lake and woke up to fog lifting over the peaks—unreal.
Note: The road is typically open from June to October, depending on snow conditions.
Day 6: Danube Delta – A Different Kind of Adventure
After the mountains, you’ll head southeast to Romania’s other great natural wonder: the Danube Delta. This is one of Europe’s last true wildernesses and a UNESCO biosphere reserve.
Experiences to try:
- Boat safari – Glide through narrow channels and lakes as you spot pelicans, cormorants, and even wild horses. It’s like nowhere else in Europe.
- Letea Forest – A surreal blend of sand dunes, ancient oak trees, and tangled vines—an eco-system like no other.
- Local villages – Places like Mila 23 give you a taste of riverside life, complete with freshly caught fish and warm, genuine hospitality.
Overnight: Stay in a traditional guesthouse. My hosts served a fish soup I still dream about.
Day 7: Constanța & the Black Sea Coast
Your final day is all about slowing down and soaking up the sun. Romania’s Black Sea Coast offers a surprising blend of ancient ruins and laid-back beach vibes.
What to explore:
- Constanța – Romania’s oldest continuously inhabited city. Visit the Roman mosaic, the grand mosque, and take a walk along the seafront.
- Constanța Casino – This abandoned Art Nouveau jewel looks straight out of a Wes Anderson film—beautiful, haunting, unforgettable.
- Mamaia Beach – If you have time, relax on the beach or grab a cocktail at one of the many seaside terraces before your journey ends.
Final Words
Whether you’re chasing Dracula myths, admiring centuries-old frescoes, or navigating the wilds of the Danube Delta, Romania has a way of leaving a lasting mark. This 7-day itinerary offers a little bit of everything: urban energy, medieval magic, mountain highs, and watery tranquility. It’s ideal for first-timers, road trippers, or those looking for a private, tailored experience.
If you’re planning a trip to Romania, let this itinerary be your guide, but don’t be afraid to veer off the path. The real magic often happens in the quiet villages, the roadside viewpoints, and the moments you didn’t plan at all.
So pack your sense of adventure: Romania is calling, and it’s spectacular.
