Top 5 Places to Visit During a Trip to Romania

Romania - a country hidden among dense forests and tall mountains in Eastern Europe. It's a land of mysteries and legends, magnificent medieval castles, and breathtaking landscapes. Here, the coasts of the Danube and the Black Sea blend with incredible architecture and the hospitality of Romanians. And the mystery of the legendary Transylvanian Count Dracula attracts travelers from all over the world, regardless of the time of year.

Today, we will tell you about five locations that are definitely worth your attention. However, it's essential to remember that there are many more beautiful and amazing places in Romania.

Sighisoara

Photo: Sighisoara, Source: https://www.getyourguide.com

Sighisoara is a small town in central Romania. In 1280, Saxon settlers built a medieval fortress, several churches, and the famous Clock Tower here. Currently, Sighisoara is considered a gem of the 16th century and one of the best-preserved medieval towns, with its historic center being listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. A must-visit place is the citadel and the Clock Tower, which is considered the highlight of the whole town. By the way, from its height, you can enjoy an incredible view of the red roofs of the old town of Sighișoara.

Bran Castle

Photo: Bran Castel, Source: https://bran-castle.com

Bran Castle is the mystical center of Romania. According to legends, this is where Vlad the Impaler, also known as Dracula, had his residence. The Gothic Bran Castle was built directly on a rock as early as 1212 by merchants looking for a way to store their goods during their passage through the Carpathian Mountains. The castle's uniqueness lies in its intricate hidden labyrinths and secret passages that connect numerous rooms. In the courtyard of the magically gloomy Bran, there is an old well where, according to local legend, the only entrance to Dracula's secret underground dungeons is hidden. Currently, the building is owned by the state and operates as a museum, where every visitor can hear creepy and captivating stories about the legendary ruler - Vlad the Impaler.

Salina Turda

Photo: Salina Turda, Source: https://www.mybestplace.com

Salina Turda is a salt mine located near the city of Turda. The mine started its operations in the 11th century and was one of the largest salt suppliers in Transylvania. In the mid-19th century, the pace of salt extraction began to decline until the last batch was taken out of Salina Turda in 1932. The mine remained closed for the next 60 years until its doors were opened to tourists. Currently, Salina Turda is considered one of the most popular museums in all of Romania. When entering the mine, you can admire extraordinary salt formations and take a ride on a unique Ferris wheel located underground.

Balea Lake

Photo: Lac Balea, Source: https://planetofhotels.com

Lake Balea is truly an impressive place in Romania. This water body is located at an altitude of 6,673 feet in the Fagaraș Mountains in the central part of the country. You can reach the lake by cable car, which starts from the Balea Waterfall, or in the summer season, by car on the Transfagarasan mountain road. There's no doubt that the views that open up to you here will amaze your imagination. The depth of Lake Balea reaches 11 meters, and its length is 360 meters. Although swimming here is not possible due to the extremely cold water, this journey is guaranteed to become one of the most exciting adventures in your life. In winter, near the lake, you can go skiing or snowboarding and even engage in a remarkable sport - ice climbing. This opportunity arises when the Balea Waterfall freezes, forming a fantastic ice mountain.

Cazinoul din Constanta 

Photo: Cazinoul Constanta, Source: https://historia.ro

Cazinoul din Constanta is a spectacular architectural monument on the Black Sea coast near the ancient port. This place has its own legends and mysteries. One story tells that the building was erected by a sailor whose daughter died tragically at the age of 17. Stricken with grief, the father decided to create a place in honor of his daughter where young people could have fun, socialize, and enjoy life, just as his daughter couldn't. Despite the dramatic legend, the impressive Art Nouveau structure served practical purposes. The building, constructed of wood at the end of the 19th century, housed one of the most famous casinos on the coast, which was known as the "Romanian Monte Carlo" among the people. After fires, storms, and two world wars, the building fell into disrepair, but the community of Constanta still hopes to restore the Casino and open it to visitors.