2025 Romania Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in November)

Come Visit Romania Have you ever been to Romania? If not you should, in fact everybody should, simply because it’s really beautiful and you can see a lot of things, like the castle Dracula lived in, the Black Sea where pirates used to hunt down every ship that passed by. Romania has a lot of cool places to visit, but in my opinion the most beautiful of them all are the parks of Bucharest, the capital city on a hot summer day. Why is that you might wonder, well let me tell you that Romania has the most beautiful girls you have ever seen, and in the summer they all go out in parks to hang around. It’s like a paradise on earth, you will be amazed and dazzled by the variety and beauty of them. If you are a girl, let me tell you that the boys are worth while too ;) Other absolutely magnificent places to visit are the Romanian beaches, i’m telling you that you won’t find anything like them anywhere else. The sand is delicate, the sea is hot and not very salty and the beaches are full with people. An interesting phenomenon has been happening in the past few years, more and more girls go to the beach topless, so there is beauty to be admired everywhere , #cityoverlook#naturalwonders#beautifulhotel#summervacation#hotelstay#urbanexplorer

The local church and cemetery in a tiny village near Brasov in Romania. It has lovely views of the mountains and the congregation is taking up a collection to have an electric cross that will be lite at night put on the mountain. #givethanks #romania #zooatlanta #givethanks

Located in Sinca Noua, Romania this is a religious monument in the process of being constructed. As you walk the street if this village you can see lovely vistas and sliced of daily life at a slower pace. Relax and enjoy. #givethanks #givethanks

In Sinca Noua, Romania in the Spring it is breathtaking. A simple walk along a dirt road on the way to the Equus Silvanus farm will give you chills it is so lovely. I have never seen so many different types of flowers growing wild as I did on this short jaunt. Still one of my favorite memories. #givethanks #flowers4days #givethanks

When I arrived here, I couldn’t help but pause and stare at the sky—not because of clouds or sunlight, but because hundreds of colorful umbrellas were floating above me. The street felt magical, like I had stepped into a painting. Every umbrella had its own color, its own life, and together they formed a canopy that turned an ordinary road into a dreamlike tunnel of art. It was as if the world decided to smile that day. I found out this place is famous for its umbrella sky project, an international art installation that started in Portugal and has since spread to cities around the world—Puerto Rico, Romania, and many others. The purpose is simple yet powerful: to bring color, joy, and imagination to urban spaces. Standing beneath them, I understood why so many people come here just to take photos, walk slowly, and feel inspired. The light passed through the umbrellas, casting soft, dancing shadows on the cobblestone street. The atmosphere felt peaceful yet alive. Children laughed, couples took selfies, and I stood there quietly, feeling like time had stopped for a moment. Traveling here reminded me that beauty doesn’t always have to be grand or far away—it can be something as simple as umbrellas hanging above a narrow street. Being in this place made me realize how art connects people without words. Different languages, faces, and stories all blend under the same sky of colors. It’s a reminder that even small acts of creativity can brighten a city—and maybe even a life. As I walked away, I felt lighter, carrying a little piece of that color and happiness with me.

#falladventures Decebal in Satu Mare, Romania is a pleasant urban area that blends everyday city life with a relaxed neighborhood vibe. Walking along the streets, you will notice a mix of modern buildings, local shops, and cozy cafes where residents gather to enjoy coffee or a quick meal. The atmosphere is calm and welcoming, making it easy to explore at your own pace. Nearby parks offer green spaces for a peaceful break, while small markets and bakeries provide a taste of local flavors. It is a great place to observe daily life and experience the authentic rhythm of the city. Decebal may not be a major tourist spot, but its friendly energy and simplicity give it a unique charm. It is a nice area to enjoy the genuine spirit of Romania.

Romania is a hidden gem for budget travelers, offering incredible value and breathtaking diversity without breaking the bank. This country delivers a rich European experience filled with medieval charm, wild nature, and vibrant cities at a fraction of the cost. Begin in the vibrant capital, Bucharest, where exploring the colossal Palace of the Parliament and charming Old Town is surprisingly affordable. Then, journey into the heart of Transylvania. The stunning cities of Brasov and Sibiu, with their cobblestone squares and Saxon architecture, are perfect, walkable bases. From here, visit the legendary Bran Castle and the breathtaking Corvin Castle, both offering low-cost entry fees. For nature lovers, the Carpathian Mountains provide world-class hiking for free. The Transfagarasan Highway offers one of the most spectacular road trips on the continent. Accommodation in guesthouses and hostels is exceptionally cheap, and hearty local meals like sarmale and mici are both delicious and easy on your wallet. Romania proves that an unforgettable European adventure is accessible to everyone. It is a land of surprising beauty and incredible affordability. #Romania #BudgetTravel #BackpackingEurope #Transylvania #Bucharest #TravelOnABudget #HiddenGems #CarpathianMountains #Castles #AffordableEurope #SoloTravel #europeonbudget

#falladventures Slănic Salt Mine, Romania The moment you enter the Slănic Salt Mine in Romania, images from sci-fi films like *The Wandering Earth* and *The Three-Body Problem* instantly flood your mind. It definitely feels like a futuristic sci-fi world has come to life! 👽 📍Slănic, Prahova 📖📖: It's not only one of Romania's oldest and most important salt mines, but also a vast underground salt museum and health resort. 1️⃣ Huge Underground Space: The salt mine consists of two main layers. 🔹Unirea Salt Mine: This is the main part open to the public. The underground halls are vast and awe-inspiring, reaching a depth of 208 meters. Due to its immense size and stable microclimate, it was once considered as a nuclear war shelter. 🔹Mihai Salt Mine: Deeper (but currently not open to the general public). 2️⃣Unique Microclimate: The underground salt mine maintains a constant low temperature (approximately 10-12°C) and air rich in sodium, iodine, and chloride ions, with a higher air pressure than at ground level. This almost completely sterile and allergen-free environment is extremely effective for respiratory illnesses (a haven for rhinitis sufferers), earning it the reputation of a "natural rehabilitation hospital." Many tourists come not only for sightseeing but also for "salt therapy." 3️⃣ Abundant Underground Activities: 🔹The mine features walkways with benches, ping-pong tables, a mini soccer field, a children's playground, and more. 🔹There is a dedicated underground chapel; its vast space makes it a popular venue for concerts, exhibitions, and unique events (such as an underground film festival). 🔹Many people spend long periods here, walking, reading, or relaxing to breathe in the beneficial air. 🚗Transportation: Driving is the most convenient way to get here. It's about a 2-hour drive from Bucharest, the capital. — 🏨🏨🏨🏨 I recommend a great Airbnb in Bucharest, the capital of Romania, perfect for your trip! 🏠Airbnb Name: Explore the City Center - Quiet 2BR Apartment 📍Located in the city center, about 7 minutes from the Old Town

#falladventures

When autumn arrives in Romania, the country transforms into a fairytale of warm colors and crisp air. Forests glow with gold and red, medieval towns feel cozier, and mountain landscapes become pure magic. 🌄 🌳 Carpathian beauty 🏞️ The mountains and valleys burst into shades of amber and crimson. 🏰 Fairytale castles 🕯️ Visit Bran and Peleș surrounded by mist and autumn leaves. 🚂 Scenic journeys 🍁 Train rides and road trips reveal charming villages and forested hills. 🥧 Local flavors ☕ Enjoy pumpkin pies, mulled wine, and homemade soups in rustic guesthouses. 📸 Peaceful atmosphere 🌿 Fewer tourists make it the perfect season to slow down and explore. Autumn in Romania is a time of calm, color, and charm — an invitation to see the country at its most beautiful. #falladventures

#hellohalloween 1. 🏰 Bucharest * Explore the capital’s highlights: the Palace of the Parliament, Old Town with lively cafés, and Calea Victoriei with shops and museums. * Try traditional dishes like sarmale (cabbage rolls) and mici (grilled sausages) 🍽️. 2. 🌄 Transylvania & Castles * Bran Castle (Dracula’s Castle) near Brașov is a must-visit for history and legends 🧛. * Peleș Castle in Sinaia is a stunning example of neo-Renaissance architecture. * Brașov itself is charming with cobbled streets, Council Square, and the Black Church. 3. 🌲 Carpathian Mountains * Hiking, wildlife, and scenic views — perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. * Popular areas include Bucegi Mountains, Retezat National Park, and Apuseni Mountains ⛰️. 4. 🏞️ Maramureș & Wooden Churches * Traditional villages with wooden houses, authentic local culture, and UNESCO-listed churches. * Experience folk customs and crafts preserved for centuries. 5. 🌊 Danube Delta * Europe’s largest wetlands — birdwatching, fishing, and boat trips through rivers and lakes. * A paradise for nature lovers and photographers 🦆. 6. 🏛️ Sibiu & Historic Towns * Sibiu, Sighișoara, and Alba Iulia showcase medieval streets, colorful squares, and historic architecture. * Sighișoara is one of the best-preserved medieval towns and the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler. 7. 🧗 Outdoor Adventures * Try skiing in Poiana Brașov in winter or rafting and kayaking in the rivers during summer 🌊. 8. ☕ Food & Local Markets * Sample cheese, pastries, and cured meats at local markets. * Enjoy traditional Romanian desserts like papanasi (sweet cheese donuts) and cozonac (sweet bread). 9. 🖼️ Culture & Festivals * Romania hosts music festivals, folk events, and art exhibitions throughout the year. * Don’t miss the George Enescu Festival in Bucharest for classical music lovers 🎶. 10. 🌟 Hidden Gems * Visit small villages, painted monasteries of Bucovina, and the Turda Salt Mine for unique experiences. * Each region has its own charm — vibrant traditions, stunning landscapes, and warm locals. 💛 Romania combines history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. From medieval castles and mountain hikes to lively cities and peaceful villages, it offers experiences for every type of traveler.

#hellohalloween Dracula’s Castle in Bran, Transylvania, is a fascinating destination where history and legend collide. Perched atop a rocky hill, the castle offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Carpathian Mountains. Stepping inside, visitors are greeted with narrow staircases, stone corridors, and antique furnishings that evoke the medieval era. The castle’s association with the Dracula legend adds a thrilling layer to the experience, attracting fans of gothic tales and curious travelers alike. Exhibits showcase royal history, weaponry, and artifacts that bring the past to life. Outside, the castle grounds and nearby forests provide excellent photo opportunities and peaceful walks. Whether you are drawn by history, folklore, or simply the dramatic architecture, Dracula’s Castle in Bran, Transylvania, delivers an unforgettable journey into Romania’s rich cultural heritage.

#hellohalloween Transfăgărășan in Argeș Romania is one of the most spectacular roads in the world, offering a thrilling journey through the heart of the Carpathian Mountains. Winding through dramatic peaks, glacial lakes, and steep valleys, the route provides breathtaking views at every turn. The road’s engineering marvels, including tunnels, viaducts, and hairpin curves, add to the sense of adventure, making it a favorite for drivers, cyclists, and road trip enthusiasts. Along the way, stops at Balea Lake, waterfalls, and hiking trails allow for exploration and photography, immersing visitors in the region’s natural beauty. Whether you are seeking adrenaline on the winding curves or simply want to soak in the panoramic mountain scenery, Transfăgărășan delivers an unforgettable experience. This iconic route perfectly captures the dramatic landscapes and adventurous spirit of Argeș.

#hellohalloween Sighişoara in Mureș Romania is a captivating medieval town that enchants visitors with its cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and fortified walls. Known as the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the town is rich in history and legend, with charming towers, churches, and squares that transport you back centuries. Climbing the covered Clock Tower provides panoramic views of the red-tiled rooftops and surrounding hills, while wandering the narrow alleyways reveals quaint shops, cozy cafes, and artisan workshops. The citadel’s blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture creates a storybook atmosphere that appeals to history enthusiasts and casual travelers alike. Cultural events, festivals, and local cuisine further enrich the experience. Whether exploring historic landmarks, enjoying scenic views, or soaking in the vibrant medieval ambiance, Sighişoara offers a memorable glimpse into Romania’s fascinating past in Mureș.

#hellohalloween The Bucovina Monasteries in Suceava Romania are a remarkable testament to faith, art, and history. Nestled amid rolling hills and serene landscapes, these UNESCO World Heritage sites are renowned for their vibrant exterior frescoes that depict biblical scenes with astonishing detail and color. Monasteries such as Voroneț, Sucevița, and Moldovița each offer a unique glimpse into medieval religious life, with interiors adorned with intricate icons and sacred artwork. Walking through the peaceful courtyards, visitors can admire the harmonious blend of architecture, art, and nature, while local monks provide a welcoming and contemplative atmosphere. The surrounding villages add cultural depth, offering traditional crafts and cuisine. Whether you are an art enthusiast, history lover, or simply seeking serene beauty, the Bucovina Monasteries provide an unforgettable journey into Romania’s spiritual and artistic heritage in Suceava.

#hellohalloweenis Rom topp 🥰Dal fascino dei palazzi storici alle notti vibranti di Lipscani 🎶 Bucarest sa come farti innamorare 💫 #Bucharest #TravelGoals #WeekendGetaway #RomaniaVibes #citybreakeurope Fotografia Arthur Audino

On a hilltop in the World Heritage city of Sighișoara in Transylvania stands the ancient church Biserica din Deal, or "Church on the Hill." Built on the foundations of an ancient Roman church around 1345, it took over two centuries to complete in the late Gothic style. Architecture in an era where man relied solely on skilled craftsmanship, stone, and faith. As you enter the church, you're immediately drawn to its vaulted ceiling, seemingly floating without a central pillar. Soft sunlight streams through the small windows, creating a tranquil atmosphere. Faded frescoes of saints on the walls still exude power. At the center of the church lies a triptych, a three-part, intricately carved wooden altar. Inside, the altar depicts the Virgin Mary and important biblical scenes, a work made exclusively here since the late 15th century. The dark, latticework ceiling is not merely decorative, but resembles an intricately woven web of faith. Beneath the church, a long red-brick staircase leads down to a crypt that has served as a refuge and cemetery since the 15th century. The cold, damp stone walls and small niches, like drawers of memories sealed for centuries, create a mystical and intriguing atmosphere. The afternoon sunlight filtering through the pointed Lancet Window is no coincidence, but a deliberate attempt by Gothic craftsmen to use light as a language to communicate the faith of the people. Biserica din Deal is thus not just an ancient site, but a historical record book, inscribed with the people's beliefs in every molecule of brick and every shadowy architectural line. • Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 AM–6:00 PM (May be closed during winter) • Access: Climb the 170-step wooden staircase, Scara Acoperită, from Sighișoara's old town. #Sighișoara #Romania #EuropeTravel

📍 Sighișoara, Transylvania, Romania Looking up beneath the old wooden roof, evening sunlight filtered through the cracks, casting rippled shadows on the worn wooden steps, revealing traces of time. The soft sound of footsteps against the wood alternated with the thrum of a guitar string at the bottom. The song was "Hotel California"—a song not loud enough to invoke, but loud enough to slow one's heart. This staircase, called Scara Acoperită, or "Covered Staircase," was built in 1642 by Saxons in Sighișoara to allow students to climb to the hillside school, even during heavy winter snowfall. The entire city seemed to breathe slowly as the guitar resonated through the old wood. This staircase, therefore, was not just a way up, but a link between past and present. Continuing upwards, you'll find "Școala din Deal," an old school that has been in operation since the 15th century, and the "Church on the Hill," which offers a picture-perfect view of the old town's red-brick roofs. Everything seemed still and warm in the afternoon light. Some come for the architecture. Some people come to take photos, but for me, the quiet moments, with only the music and the last light of day remaining, are the heart of this city. It's the little rhythms of life that confirm that even the past still has its own voice. If you visit, try climbing the stairs in the late afternoon when the light is just right, and you might just hear a song waiting for you at the end of the wooden steps. #Sighisoara #Romania #StudentStreet #Transylvania #TravelMoments #OldTownVibes

Sighișoara, the city where death isn't scary Cool light filtered through tall branches, shadows of leaves reflected on the stone tombstones lining the hillside of the old town of Sighișoara, a small Romanian city once home to Saxons from Central Europe since the 12th century. In Central Europe, cemeteries weren't built to scare people, but rather as peaceful spaces where the living and the deceased shared the same air. Children walked, ran, laughed, and learned that silence wasn't scary, but a different kind of sound of life. Looking back at our home, we often grew up with the word "no entry." Fear kept us away from death, even though it was all around us, just like breathing. If death weren't something to be avoided, we might understand "life" more than we thought. I saw the boy brush his hand after he finished something and continue cycling up the hill, like a small picture that said, "Life and death are not on opposite sides." Sighișoara was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999 for its beautiful, intact medieval architecture. The city's history began in the 12th century, when King Géza II of Hungary invited a group of German craftsmen called The Saxons of Transylvania settled there to help protect their kingdom. In the past, Sighișoara was known in German as Schäßburg, meaning "Castle in the Forest." The city was built on a hill with nine towers and fortifications to protect it from enemies. Each tower was manned by a different group of craftsmen. But the city's greatest fame stems from a prominent historical figure, Vlad III, Prince of Wallachia, also known as Vlad the Impaler, who inspired the legend of Dracula. Historical records suggest that Vlad III was born in a house in the old town, which is now a restaurant. The German cemetery we visited is a glimpse into the lives of Sighișoara's inhabitants, reflecting the vibrant and memorable history of the city. #Sighișoara #CentralEurope #TravelCulture

📍 Sighișoara, Transylvania, Romania A city that doesn't try to be beautiful, because it's beautiful in its own way. Cracked pastel walls look like wrinkles from time. Brightly colored triangular flags flutter over cobblestone streets. A gentle breeze blows through the narrow alleys of the old town. Sighișoara, a small, valley-side town in Transylvania, is quiet yet alive. This is one of the few medieval towns in Eastern Europe still inhabited. Brightly colored wooden houses line narrow, curving streets. Some buildings date back to the 15th century and have remained unchanged. The city was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. Founded by Saxon Germans in the 12th century, it is the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the man who inspired the Dracula legend. Look up at the Clock Tower, a 14th-century tower with green and gold-patterned tiles reflecting the cool light of dragon scales. Inside, wooden figures rotate, changing poses to reflect the days of the week. The clock not only tells the time, but also reminds the city dwellers of the transitions in life. The old wooden staircase, known as the Scholars' Stairs, was built in 1642 for students to walk up to the school on the church grounds in winter. Today, it's a path of memories, with cool light filtering through the wooden slats. On the main street, a small children's train slowly passes by. Blue and peach-colored houses line the streets, some bearing signs reading "Authentic Romanesc," meaning "true Romania." Shops selling traditional textiles, wooden dolls, and local souvenirs are still lit. This is not a miniature city, but a city that breathes its own rhythm. #Romania #Transylvania #Sighișoara #WorldHeritage #EuropeanOldTown #VisitRomania #TripMoments

— Following the footsteps of Dracula in Sighișoara From beneath the clock tower, small souvenir shops line the streets. People stop, take photos, and stop to buy magnets bearing Vlad's face, looking as real as a cartoon illustration. We hadn't been there long before we stopped in front of a simple yellow house. A wooden sign above the door read "Casa Vlad Dracul"—the house believed to be the birthplace of Vlad III. He was born here in 1431, during the time his father, Vlad Dracul, resided in the city. The name "Dracula," in Bram Stoker's novel, is descended from Dracul—"Son of the Dragon." We climbed the wooden stairs to the second floor of the house, which is now a small restaurant. The waiter said, "No reservations required," just arrive before 6 p.m. The thick wooden tables, artificial candlelight, and the warm aromas of Romanian cuisine wafted from the kitchen. The atmosphere felt like a chapter in an unfinished story. Is there anything to see about Dracula? We asked him, and he pointed up to the third floor. The "Dracula Exhibition" requires a small admission fee. A narrow staircase leads up to a darkened room. The old wooden door creaks open... Will we find him there? Perhaps "Dracula" isn't an immortal man, but a living legend, residing in this yellow house — in the heart of a small Transylvanian city. #Romania #Sighisoara #CasaVladDracul #DraculaCastle #EasternEuropeTrip #Transylvania #TripMoments

Designed to inflict slow pain, the internal thorns aren't immediately fatal, but cut deep enough to allow for gradual torture. Some say they were never actually used in the Middle Ages, but it's enough to remind us that... At one time... fear was cast in such hard steel. The Torture Chamber at Bran Castle: Truth More Terrifying Than Fiction 📍 Bran Castle, Brașov, Romania I came to Bran Castle to see the legendary Dracula. But what I encountered wasn't a demon or a bat. It was a "small room," a room devoid of legend or magic. Only the "truth" of the past was chillingly surreal. Many believe this is the home of Dracula in Bram Stoker's novel. However, the writer had never actually been to Romania. He was simply inspired by Prince Vlad the Impaler, ruler of Wallachia, a region not far from Bran. Looking up at the hilltop, the striking gray stone castle seems to have come straight from the pages of his book. This torture room requires an extra ticket to enter. Officially called the Torture Exhibition & Secret Tunnel, the space is small but packed with ancient metal tools from the Middle Ages, an era when "punishment" stemmed not from justice but from "power and faith." The damp stone walls reflect the orange light of ancient lamps. Many of the tools appear to have been exposed to blood. The exhibition features numerous torture devices, including: • Iron Maiden — A human-shaped iron box with thorns inside. The imprisoned person was slowly stabbed. • The Rack — A wooden bed used to stretch the victim's limbs until the joints dislocated, to extract a "confession." • The Spanish Donkey — A triangular wooden device that accused witches straddled and weighted to increase the force of the pressure, causing the body to tear. • Scavenger's Daughter — A steel frame that constricted the body until blood congealed, the opposite of The Rack. • The Iron Interrogation Chair — A chair imbued with needles. It wasn't an execution device, but rather forced the victim to sit still in agony. Although Bran Castle has no evidence of actual torture, this exhibit reflects the "spirit of the era," where faith and power went hand in hand with fear, an era where silence could be louder than a scream. I quietly walked out of the room. I saw many more torture devices: hooks, tongs, swords, and various types of bondage. They were more real than I had ever described. #BranCastle #Romania #CastleStories #DraculaCastle

Who would have thought that the world-famous "Castle of Dracula" would have a heartwarming and vibrant story beyond the horror legends everyone knows? Bran Castle had its beginnings entirely unrelated to vampires. It was simply a tax collector's fortress, built in 1377 by a Hungarian king to control the trade route between Transylvania and Wallachia. At that time, the only sound was the sound of horses and the wind blowing through the valley. The story of "Dracula" came to life hundreds of years later, when Irish author Bram Stoker wrote his novel "Dracula" in 1897. Although he had never visited the castle, the image of the castle perched on a cliff inspired the world to imagine a vampire's lair. Since then, Bran Castle has become a symbol of horror. But for Romanians, a heartwarming true story began in 1920, when the castle was given to Queen Marie of Romania. She transformed the cold stone tower into a loving and warm holiday home, decorated with flowers, artwork, and local artifacts from the surrounding villages. Queen Marie was a highly compassionate woman. During the war, she worked as a nurse herself, establishing a field hospital and caring for wounded soldiers, earning her the nickname "Mother of the Wounded." This legacy of compassion was continued by her favorite daughter, Princess Elena, who reopened the castle as a field hospital until Bran Castle was seized during the communist era, and it was returned to the royal family in 2009. Today, the castle exhibits Queen Marie and Princess Elena's personal belongings, including nurse's uniforms, diaries, and old photographs. As you wander through the rooms, you'll realize that this is not a home for legendary vampires, but a "home of the heart," filled with stories of love and compassion. 📍 Bran Castle, Brașov, Romania #BranCastle #Romania #QueenMarie

A small wooden door, with a brass handle carved into the shape of a goat's head and a woman's face, we pushed through. It seemed like it wasn't meant to open...but to tell a story. No one knocked, but deep down inside, we felt the need to "ask permission" before entering. In the first room, portraits of kings, knights, and princesses lined the walls. We climbed the narrow stone stairs leading to the upper room. The light filtering through revealed a white princess dress displayed in a glass case. There was no luxury, no jewelry, just a lace umbrella, and the light falling on it was just right, as if someone had arranged it. In another corner of the room, a white knight stood silently in a glass case. No name, no face, but it felt like he had stood beside someone...in the pages of history. The next room was Princess Ileana's room. She wasn't some fairytale princess waiting for a prince. She was a writer, a nurse during the war, and had returned to spend her final days in the castle. Her living room looked ordinary, with only a small bed, a desk, and a vase of lilies. But the morning sunlight filtered through, it seemed strangely "alive." Before leaving this area, we passed through a secret door, which was slightly ajar. The corridor was so narrow that we had to walk through it one at a time. They say it was built for the master to walk through without having to go through the central hall. But for us… it's a quiet, simple passageway through the past. I never thought a castle would have such a secret passage. 📍 Bran Castle, Romania #BranCastle #TravelJournal

We arrived early, frost still clinging to the grass. The soft morning light and the still-quiet courtyard made it feel like we were going to be first in line. But instead of getting in smoothly, we were stuck in front of a silent, automated ticket machine, as if it were testing something. The screen asked, "Would you like a regular ticket or an Extra ticket?" We chose the Extra ticket — because we figured if there was a Dracula, it would be the Extra ticket. The problem was that the system didn't accept cash, there was no attendant, and we had to use a card with a PIN, which no one in our group could remember. So we stood there, confused, in front of the machine. We watched the people behind us walk by, one by one, and then a couple at a time. Then, our senior in our group helped us through with his card. It was like a legendary door opening after passing through the technology checkpoint. Then, we started walking up a narrow ramp, lined with yellow-green leaves that, before they even changed color, were swaying against our cheeks in the morning breeze. And as we reached the final turn, the image of Bran Castle appeared before us. It wasn't as grand as Versailles. It's not a Neuschwanstein fantasy, but it's "self-sustaining"—solid, silent, and solid. We stare at the old wooden entrance, and a few steps ahead, we'll discover... Is it a haunted house, or a living house? 📍 Bran Castle, Romania #BranCastle #Dracula #RomaniaTravel #Romania

We strolled along the town square, the last golden light of day slowly fading through the shadows of the old buildings, to a restaurant called Cucinino Pasta Bar. I had seen this restaurant on YouTube, "Inside Transylvania - EPIC ROMANIAN FOOD + Wild Stews in Brasov, Romania!", reviewed by Mark Wiens. I had secretly memorized the name of the restaurant, jokingly thinking, "I'd love to sit here someday." And today... I was sitting there. Who says dinner has to be serious? They start with a beer foam almost as high as a hop lover's dream. The white foam overflowed like a celebration. The large pan of pasta—chewy noodles, a rich sauce, large shrimps, mussels, and a hint of herbs—tasted like an Italian in a Romanian kitchen. It was truly as delicious as Mark had said. I can't remember what we ordered, but I do remember it being the best meal of the trip. We left the restaurant laughing. But the chilly wind hit us, around 4 degrees. Thankfully, we didn't just choose... “Eat the atmosphere.” We chose the restaurant we wanted to visit—and it was even warmer than soup on a cold night. 📍 Strada Diaconu Coresi 6, Brașov 500025 / 500026, Romania  #Pasta #Brașov #Romania #CucininoPastaBar

In the center of Piața Sfatului, once used for city leaders to meet and adjudicate cases, stands Casa Sfatului, a red-roofed building that doubles as the town hall, court of justice, and today serves as the local museum, "Casa Sfatului." Brief information about Casa Sfatului: • Built in 1420 • Used as the town hall and court of justice • Currently, it is the Brașov History Museum • The distinctive, tall clock tower was added later during the Renaissance • "Casa Sfatului" means "House of Discussion." Surrounding the square are pastel-colored buildings, whose ground floors are occupied by coffee shops and modern brands like Starbucks and Five to Go, harmoniously blending past and present without sacrificing the historic atmosphere. Nearby is the Black Church, the largest Gothic church in Eastern Europe. It survived a major fire in 1689 and still hosts organ concerts every summer. Brașov has no tall buildings or shopping malls—just cobblestone streets, cool air, and outdoor tables where people gather. Some cities don't need much to say because they teach us to "listen" for ourselves. #Brașov #RomaniaTrip #CitySquare #BlackChurch #EuropeanArchitecture #OrganSound #CobblestoneStreets

In some cities, we feel transported to “see” things. But in Brașov…it’s more than just a place to see. It’s a city where we “live” with the silence of the past and the soft sounds of the present. This small Transylvanian town was once a center for merchants and Saxon Germans in the 13th century, and has since become a haven for modern travelers. Its charm is understated and unadorned. The old wooden-framed windows, adorned with statues of people reading books…some might pass by without noticing, but if we pause, we might understand that this city respects “knowledge,” not just trade. The old woman on the street offering flowers to a stranger isn’t just “selling,” but she’s conveying a warmth that, in some cities, might cost more than a small sum. The young musician playing the handpan in front of the blue building isn’t trying to be demanding. Just let the soft sounds linger with the cool city breeze. And sometimes…these sounds linger in the memory longer than any tourist advertisement. Look up at Tampa Hill, you'll see the large, white BRASOV sign, a deliberate imitation of Hollywood. But strangely—this city doesn't try to be like anyone else. It's Brașov the way it was, and will always be. Some cities leave the past behind to pursue the future, but Brașov chooses to "live with it," quietly, unpretentiously, without rushing or showing off. Just walking here, we feel like we're talking to time and know that the past is always there for us. 📍Brașov, Romania 🎒 Perfect for those who love walking, observing, and enjoying the quiet. 📸 Recommended for autumn, when the colors of the trees are warm and tell a story.