Yes, we know that this title is a bold statement. But we truly believe that Romania really is the most beautiful place in the world! Romania is more than just a “place” though. Romania is a rich country with a long history, a variety of landscapes, and a happy and inviting culture. You can visit castles, mountains, beaches, UNESCO World Heritage sites and so much more! Romania has some of the most beautiful sites in the world, all packed into this magnificent country! If you are not yet convinced, read below to learn about some of Romania’s most beautiful sites!
If you want to see the house where the “real” Dracula was born – we’re talking about Vlad the Impaler – head over to Sighisoara. It is a quant medieval town located in the middle of Romania. His house is located on Tin Street No.1, between the Citadel square and the clock tower. It is a small place, but you can eat at the restaurant located on the ground floor and afterwards head up to the weapons museum on the floor above. Even if you are not interested in seeing Vlad the Impaler’s house, this city is on UNESCO’s prestigious list and it is one of the most beautiful inhabited citadels in all of Europe!
Bran Castle
Speaking of Dracula, you must see his castle! Bran Castle is most similar to the castle described in Bram Stoker’s novel, Dracula. Although Stoker had never been to Romania himself, Bran Castle in Transylvania pretty much perfectly fits the bill for Dracula’s castle. It is perched at the top of an ominous hill, it is large and majestic, and it dates all the way back to the 1300s. Some people believe that the character Dracula is based off the real-life Romanian Ruler, Vlad the Impaler. Vlad did visit this castle during his lifetime, but he did not actually live here. Because of its age and perch overlooking the valleys, this is the ideal beautiful yet isolated and weathered castle to visit.
The Transfagarasan
This is considered by some to be “the world’s best driving road.” It is quite a site to see: the road is complete with tunnels, bridges and viaducts (which is similar to aqueducts if you are familiar with those). The road closes at the end of October though, so make sure that you plan to go before then. This winding road is absolutely beautiful, so be sure to bring your camera!
Biertan
Biertan is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is so impressive that some people make the trip to Romania just to visit this fortified church. Construction started in the 1400s and it is one of the largest fortified churches in all of Transylvania. It was built by the Saxons and by the time the Saxons had built this church, they had already had centuries of experience building fortified edifices. This church is the most prominent structure in the small village where it stands, making it impossible to visit without getting a good glimpse of the building. With three walls and eight towers, this is an impressive and beautiful structure to behold!
Old Town Bucharest
Bucharest’s Old Town is one of the most beautiful spots in the entire city. You are surrounded by beautiful architecture, and there is plenty to do in Old Town. If you want a really good spot for sunset photos, we would recommend heading up to the Pura Vida Sky Bar. This is a small, unassuming hostel, but on the roof of the building they have a gorgeous bar that gives you an amazing view of the city. And the drinks are cheap too!
Ciucas Peak
The highest point in the Ciucas Mountains, this peak is located in the southern region of the Carpathian Mountains. It is a total of 1954 meters high, and your views go as far as the horizons. The only way to make it up here is to hike, so just pack a good pair of hiking shoes and a light raincoat, depending on the season.
The Bicaz Gorge
Located in the north-central part of the country, this is one of the most beautiful gorges in Romania. Just driving through the gorge is so picturesque. It was carved out by the Bicaz River and allows you to pass from Moldova to Transylvania. The roads are narrow, the cliffs are high, and the views are stunning.
The Black Church
The Black Church of Brasov was built in the 1500s and is the largest Gothic church in Eastern Europe. There is no other church that comes close to its size between Italy and Istanbul. Now, before you get worried, it is called the Black Church because its walls were darkened n a fire that nearly destroyed in entirely in 1689. Inside the church you will find a huge Bucholz organ and the largest collection of oriental carpets in Europe.
Brasov
And now that we are on the topic of Brasov, this is a beautiful city that you absolutely must visit during your time in Romania! Brasov is a city in the Transylvanian mountains – in fact, it is surrounded on three sides by mountains, which made is a great city to settle as there was a lot of natural protection from invaders. Brasov is a great city to visit year-round; it is warm and walkable in the summer, but it turns into a winter wonderland during the colder months, so no matter when you want to visit, you are sure to have a fantastic time! You can visit Bran Castle or Peles Castle from here (both of which hare associated with Dracula), check out the views from Tampa Mountain, walk through the Romanian quarter, and do so much more! Brasov has enough to do that you could spend your entire vacation in this city and not get bored!