Romania is one of those countries that I think gets overlooked by backpackers.
After visiting several times and spending around 15–16 days travelling around the country, I can honestly say that I would go back tomorrow.
I travelled around Romania during the summer, mostly towards the end of August, and visited places including Bucharest, Sinaia, Turda, Cluj-Napoca and Sibiu.
I also didn’t get to everywhere I wanted.
Brașov, Timișoara, Craiova, Constanța and Iași are all places I’d like to explore more, and I’d particularly like to spend more time in northern Romania.
Romania isn’t the absolute cheapest country in Eastern Europe, but the smaller cities can be incredibly affordable. Accommodation can often be found for around €6–€10 per night, meals can be kept below €7–€8, and buses are generally very cheap.
The real attraction for me, though, isn’t just the price.
It’s the combination of Romanian food, mountains, castles, history, hiking, beaches and genuinely interesting cities.
Here’s my guide to backpacking Romania on a budget.
🇷🇴 Romania at a Glance
| Time I’ve spent in Romania | Around 15–16 days |
| Best time I visited | Summer / late August |
| Travel style | Solo backpacking |
| Average daily budget | Around €12 |
| Hostels | Often €6–€10 |
| Meals | Often under €7–€8 |
| Transport | Trains + buses |
| Best city | Cluj-Napoca |
| Best for nature | Sinaia / Transylvania / Carpathians |
| Best summer destination | Constanța |
| My overall value rating | 9/10 |
Prices obviously change, but Romania can still be a very good-value destination for backpackers.
Is Romania Good for Backpacking?
Yes. Absolutely.
I’d particularly recommend Romania to travellers who have already done a few trips and want somewhere that gives them a bit more of an adventure.
It isn’t as straightforward as travelling around some Western European countries, but I found the transport relatively easy to understand.
Most of the information I needed was available through Google, and when I wasn’t sure, I’d simply ask my hostel or hotel.
There’s also something I really liked about Romania:
there aren’t huge numbers of international backpackers everywhere.
I met some travellers, but nowhere near as many as in some of the more established backpacking destinations.
That can mean hostels sometimes have people who are actually living there rather than backpackers moving through the country, but I didn’t find this a major problem.
How Much Does It Cost to Backpack Romania?
This was one of my favourite things about travelling around Romania.
On average, I spent roughly €12 per day, although this obviously depended on what I was doing.
That’s an average rather than a strict daily limit.
Pay for a major attraction, long-distance train or activity and that day’s budget will obviously increase.
But on a normal day, Romania can be extremely cheap.
My rough backpacking budget
| Expense | Typical budget |
|---|---|
| Hostel | €6–€10 |
| Food | €7–€15 |
| Local transport | €1–€5 |
| Activities | Variable |
| Basic daily budget | ~€12–€25 |
You can spend considerably more if you’re taking lots of trains, visiting expensive attractions, booking organised tours or staying in private rooms.
But if you’re happy with hostels, buses, supermarkets, street food and walking, Romania can be a very affordable destination.
My biggest money-saving tip
Use buses whenever practical.
I found some trains could be surprisingly expensive, whereas buses were often incredibly cheap.
Getting Around Romania
I travelled using a mixture of trains and buses.
I never rented a car.
The transport network was one of the things that surprised me because I found it relatively easy to navigate.
I’d usually check Google Maps first and then double-check with my hostel if I was unsure.
🚌 Buses
For budget backpackers, buses are your friend.
They’re generally very cheap, and I used them frequently.
For a long-distance journey, compare the bus and train rather than automatically assuming the train is the better option.
🚆 Trains
Romanian trains are useful for travelling between major cities, but they can sometimes be more expensive than I expected.
They’re still worth using, particularly for longer journeys and where the timetable works better.
One experience I’d really like to try in the future is the sleeper train from Bucharest to Chișinău, Moldova.
I haven’t done it yet, but it sounds like exactly the sort of slightly complicated experience that makes backpacking interesting.
🚕 Bolt and Uber
I used Bolt much more than Uber.
But I didn’t rely on it for normal transport.
I mainly used it when I had a really early train or bus and didn’t want to risk missing it.
That’s my general rule when backpacking:
save money where you can, but don’t risk something important just to save a few euros.
Where Should You Go Backpacking in Romania?
This is where Romania gets interesting.
I’d recommend spending less time worrying about Bucharest and more time exploring the rest of the country.
My favourite places and the ones I’d prioritise are:
Cluj-Napoca
Sibiu
Sinaia
Brașov
Turda
Constanța in summer
And then there are places I didn’t have enough time for:
Timișoara
Craiova
Iași
I’d also like to explore more of northern Romania on a future trip.
🇷🇴 Bucharest
I’ll start with the controversial opinion.
Bucharest was my least favourite part of Romania.
I’ve visited several times, and while there are definitely things worth seeing, I much preferred the rest of the country.
The city can feel dirty in places and there is a noticeable amount of homelessness.
Having said that, I wouldn’t tell someone to skip it.
There’s some genuinely fascinating history and architecture.
Palace of Parliament
The Palace of Parliament was one of my favourite attractions in Romania.
I took a guided tour and thought it was stunning.
The sheer scale of the building is difficult to appreciate until you’re actually inside it.
Therme Bucharest
Another highlight is Therme Bucharest.
It’s a huge thermal spa complex outside the city and is absolutely stunning.
It’s also surprisingly accessible without a car. The current 442 bus connects Piața Presei with Therme and stops at Henri Coandă Airport.
It’s not something I’d include in an ultra-budget itinerary because it will increase your spending considerably, but if you’re willing to spend a little more for one day, I’d absolutely recommend it.
You can read my more detailed guide here:
→ Bucharest Weekend Itinerary
🏔️ Sinaia
Sinaia was one of my favourite stops for getting away from the cities.
It’s a mountain resort surrounded by beautiful scenery and is particularly famous for Peleș Castle.
I also did a short hike here, which I absolutely loved.
It wasn’t some huge, exhausting mountain expedition.
It was simply a chilled walk through beautiful surroundings — exactly the sort of thing I enjoy when travelling.
Peleș Castle
Peleș Castle is one of the attractions I’d prioritise in Romania.
The castle was built at the initiative of Romania’s first king, Carol I, and is one of the country’s major historic attractions.
Current official tickets list adult entry to the main Peleș Castle tour at 100 lei, with student tickets at 25 lei. Opening times and ticket slots can change, so check the official site before travelling.
What about Dracula’s Castle?
You’ve probably heard about Bran Castle.
I haven’t visited it.
I’d heard it was relatively expensive and, more importantly, that the connection to the historical Vlad III is much weaker than the tourism around “Dracula” suggests.
So I chose to spend my money elsewhere.
I’m not saying you shouldn’t go — Bran Castle is obviously one of Romania’s most famous attractions and could be worth visiting if you’re interested in it.
But don’t feel that you have to visit it just because someone told you it’s essential.
For me, Peleș was the castle I’d prioritise.
⭐ Cluj-Napoca
Cluj-Napoca was my favourite city in Romania.
It’s a little more expensive than some of the smaller Romanian destinations, but I thought it was worth it.
The city has a young, energetic atmosphere and plenty of cafes, restaurants, nightlife and things to explore.
I particularly liked the balance between being a proper city and still having access to nature.
If you’re backpacking Romania and only have time for a few cities, I’d put Cluj-Napoca near the top of the list.
For accommodation, current hostel listings include Retro Youth Hostel, around 0.4 km from the city centre, and Transylvania Hostel.
🏛️ Sibiu
Sibiu was another place I really enjoyed.
The historic centre is beautiful and compact enough to explore largely on foot.
It’s the kind of place where you can spend the day wandering through the old streets, stopping for food and coffee without needing a huge itinerary.
For backpackers looking for accommodation, PanGeea Hostel is currently listed around 0.3 km from the city centre, with dorm beds sometimes available at relatively low prices.
🏖️ Constanța
If you’re travelling during the summer, I’d also recommend considering Constanța.
I wouldn’t necessarily put it near the top of my list outside summer, but during warm weather the combination of city and Black Sea coastline makes it an interesting addition to a Romanian trip.
It gives you something completely different from the castles and mountains.
🏰 Brașov
I didn’t manage to visit Brașov properly during my trips, which is one of my biggest regrets.
It’s one of the destinations I’d most recommend adding to a future itinerary.
The city is surrounded by mountains and is an excellent base for exploring the wider Transylvania region.
There are plenty of hostel options in the centre. Current listings include SECRET Boutique Hostel, JugendStube Hostel and Centrum House, among others.
For someone doing Romania for the first time, I’d probably put Brașov ahead of Bucharest in terms of how much time I’d allocate.
🏔️ Romania’s Hiking
One of the biggest reasons I’d return to Romania is the nature.
I haven’t done huge multi-day mountain expeditions here, but I did a short hike around Sinaia and absolutely loved it.
I also have a list of hikes and natural areas that I’d recommend researching:
Seven Ladders Canyon
A beautiful canyon near Brașov with waterfalls, ladders and forest scenery.
Cheile Turzii – Turda Gorge
A spectacular limestone gorge close to Turda.
Piatra Craiului National Park
One of Romania’s best areas for mountain scenery and hiking.
Old Road to Poiana Brașov
A scenic route connecting Brașov with Poiana Brașov.
Ceahlău National Park
A great option if you’re heading further east and want serious mountain scenery.
Dumbrava Sibiului Natural Park
A quieter outdoor option around Sibiu.
Lucaci’s Rock
Another natural viewpoint worth considering as you explore Romania’s mountains.
I’d recommend researching the current trail conditions before setting off, particularly outside summer.
🍲 Romanian Food You Need to Try
Romanian food was one of my favourite parts of the country.
It isn’t a cuisine I’d properly experienced before visiting, and there are loads of hearty dishes to try.
Sarmale
Cabbage rolls usually filled with seasoned meat and rice.
Definitely try them.
Ciorbă
Romanian sour soups.
There are lots of different versions, so try a few.
Mici
Grilled minced-meat rolls and a Romanian classic.
Great for a cheap meal.
My Favourite Food Spots
Lacrimi și Sfinți
This was my favourite.
It’s a more traditional Romanian restaurant and is somewhere I’d recommend if you’re willing to spend a little more on a proper meal.
Zexe
Another restaurant worth checking out for Romanian cuisine.
Mahala
A more modern take on Romanian food.
Dristor Kebap
For something much more casual and budget-friendly.
Burger Van Bistro
Good option if you want something different from traditional Romanian food.
Scovergăria Mică
One of my favourites.
Scovergi are Romanian-style fried pastries, and this is exactly the sort of place I love when travelling cheaply.
How to Eat Cheaply in Romania
I tried to keep my food costs down by mixing:
Supermarket food + street food + occasional restaurants.
You don’t need to eat in restaurants three times a day.
Most of my meals could be kept below around €7–€8, while street food could be even cheaper.
For budget backpackers, that’s one of the biggest advantages of Romania.
You can eat really well without destroying your budget.
Are There Many Backpackers in Romania?
Not compared with some of Europe’s more popular destinations.
I met a few travellers, but I didn’t constantly find myself surrounded by backpackers.
I actually liked that.
You get a slightly more authentic feeling than in cities where the backpacking route is already extremely established.
The downside is that hostel atmospheres can vary.
Some hostels have people living there rather than travellers, so don’t necessarily expect a huge social backpacker scene every night.
What Are Romanian People Like?
This is probably one of the harder things to describe.
My experience was that Romanian people can initially seem cold or reserved.
They’re not necessarily going to strike up a conversation with you immediately.
But I also met some really friendly locals who were incredibly kind.
Once you start talking to people, I found that they were generally helpful.
And one thing that surprised me was how good the English was.
I rarely felt like communication was a major problem.
Is Romania Safe for Backpackers?
My personal experience was that I felt safe travelling around Romania, including walking around at night in most places.
I had no problems with scams or losing belongings.
However, that is my personal experience travelling as a man.
I’d be more cautious about generalising that experience to everyone. I’ve heard different experiences from female travellers, so I’d recommend solo female travellers do their own research and take the usual precautions.
As with anywhere, keep your belongings secure, particularly on public transport and in busy areas.
Don’t let the fact that a country is cheap make you careless.
7-Day Romania Backpacking Itinerary
If you’ve only got one week, I’d keep the route fairly tight.
Days 1–2: Bucharest
Explore the Old Town, Palace of Parliament and the city’s main historic sights.
You could also add Therme if you want a relaxing day.
Days 3–4: Brașov
Use Brașov as your base for exploring the mountains and surrounding attractions.
You could add Bran Castle or another castle if that’s your thing.
Days 5–7: Sinaia + surrounding area
Visit Peleș Castle, explore Sinaia and get into the mountains.
This gives you a good mixture of:
city + history + castles + mountains
14-Day Romania Backpacking Route
With two weeks, I’d make the trip much more ambitious.
Days 1–2
Bucharest
Days 3–4
Brașov
Day 5
Sinaia / Peleș Castle
Days 6–8
Cluj-Napoca
Days 9–10
Turda + Turda Gorge
Days 11–12
Sibiu
Days 13–14
Craiova or another destination depending on your route
I’d personally change this route if you have more time and head further north, because that’s one of the parts of Romania I still want to explore properly.
Places I Still Want to Visit
One of my favourite things about travelling to Romania several times is that I still haven’t finished exploring it.
I’d like to visit:
Brașov properly
Timișoara
Craiova
Iași
More of northern Romania
I’d also like to try the sleeper train from Bucharest to Chișinău, Moldova.
That’s one for the future.
What I Like Most About Romania
The biggest thing for me is the variety.
You can spend one day exploring a historic city, the next visiting a castle and the next hiking through the mountains.
Then you can head to the coast during summer.
You get:
🏰 Castles
🏙️ Cities
🌲 Nature
🥾 Hiking
🍲 Great food
🏖️ Beaches
♨️ Thermal spas
And you don’t need a huge budget to experience it.
What I Don’t Like About Romania
I’m not going to pretend everything was perfect.
My biggest negative was Bucharest.
Parts of the city felt dirty, and there was a noticeable amount of homelessness.
I also found people could sometimes be quite reserved.
But I’d be careful about letting Bucharest define your opinion of Romania.
I enjoyed Romania much more once I left the capital.
My Romania Ratings
Based on my own experiences:
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| 💰 Value for money | 9/10 |
| 🏨 Accommodation | 5/10 |
| 🚆 Transport | 5/10 |
| 🍲 Food | 7/10 |
| 🏛️ History & culture | 8/10 |
| 🌲 Nature | 7/10 |
| 🥾 Hiking | 6.5/10 |
| 🎉 Nightlife | 7/10 |
| 🛡️ Safety | 6.5/10 |
The accommodation and transport ratings aren’t because Romania is bad in those areas — they’re simply my personal ratings based on my experiences.
My Advice for Backpacking Romania
If you’re thinking about backpacking Romania, go for it.
Don’t just visit Bucharest and decide you’ve seen Romania.
Get outside the capital.
Visit the smaller cities.
Eat Romanian food.
Take the bus.
Get into the mountains.
Visit a castle.
Try the street food.
And speak to the locals, even if they initially seem a little reserved.
You might not get the same polished backpacking experience that you’ll find in some of Europe’s most established routes.
But that’s part of the appeal.
For me, Romania is a country where the less obvious route is often the better one.
And with accommodation sometimes available for less than €10, cheap food and plenty of affordable things to do, it’s an excellent option for travellers who want to keep their costs down without sacrificing experiences.
I’d go back any day.
🇷🇴 Adventure For Less Verdict
Romania: 8.5/10
Best for: Budget travellers, food lovers, history, castles, nature and hiking.
Best city: Cluj-Napoca
Best castle: Peleș
Best summer destination: Constanța
Best budget: Smaller Romanian cities
Best experience: Getting outside the major cities
Would I go back?
100%.
Adventure For Less tip: Romania isn’t necessarily the cheapest country in Eastern Europe — but the combination of low accommodation costs, cheap food, interesting cities and incredible nature makes it one of the best-value destinations I’ve travelled around.
Affiliate disclosure
Some links in this guide may be affiliate links. If you book through one of these links, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend services, accommodation and experiences that I believe are useful for travellers.