Romania

The Land of Legends
and Enchanted Forests

Flag of Romenia

Romania, located in Eastern Europe, is known for its medieval castles, Carpathian Mountains, and rich folklore. Its capital, Bucharest, offers a blend of grand historic buildings and modern urban life, with landmarks like the Palace of the Parliament. Romania’s landscapes range from the wild beauty of the Carpathians to the serene shores of the Black Sea.

The country’s culture is deeply influenced by its folklore, most famously linked to the legend of Dracula and Transylvania. Romanian cuisine is hearty, featuring dishes like sarmale (cabbage rolls) and mămăligă (cornmeal porridge). Romania is a land of history, mystery, and natural beauty.

Travel Documents
Toll
Currency
Laws
Safety
Flights
Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Romania.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 3 months beyond your planned stay in Romania.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from these nations can enter Romania with a valid passport and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa (e.g., US, Canada, Australia, UK, Japan). Note: As of 2025, Romania is part of the Schengen Area, so Schengen rules apply.
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from these nations must possess a valid passport and obtain a Schengen visa prior to entering Romania (e.g., India, China, Russia).

Special Entry Provisions

  • Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen visas (previously used in a Schengen state) can enter Romania without an additional visa.
  • Citizens with valid, multiple-entry US or UK visas (previously used in the issuing country) can enter without a Romanian visa if issued before Schengen integration; post-2025, Schengen rules supersede.
  • Holders of valid residence permits from Schengen states, the US, or the UK can enter without a visa if from visa-exempt countries.

ID Card Entry
The following citizens can enter Romania using only a valid national ID card:

  • European Union (EU) member states
  • European Economic Area (EEA) countries
  • Switzerland

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for 90 days within 180 days. Can be single, double, or multiple entry, with validity up to 5 years (Schengen short-stay visa).
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 90 days within 180 days. Valid for one year with a 90-day stay period, allowing application for a residence permit.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free stays are typically limited to 90 days within a 180-day period (Schengen Area rules).
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules may apply for work, study, or long-term stays.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements or restrictions via https://www.ms.ro/.
Toll

Driving in Romania

Current Toll Roads
As of 2025, the main toll road in Romania is:

  • The Rruga e Kombit equivalent: The A1 (Bucharest to Pitești and Sibiu to Deva), A3 (Bucharest to Ploiești), and various bridges (e.g., Danube Bridge at Giurgiu-Ruse).

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates vary based on vehicle type and distance traveled. For the most current rates, visit the official Romanian Road Authority website: https://www.cnadnr.ro/.
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Romanian Leu (RON) is accepted at toll booths and for vignette purchases.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Major cards are accepted at most toll booths and online.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: The e-Rovinieta system requires a vignette for all roads; purchase at https://www.roviniete.ro/.

Driving in Romania

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 50 km/h
    • Rural roads: 90 km/h
    • Highways: 130 km/h
  • Road conditions vary; exercise caution, especially on rural roads.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Romania requires an e-Rovinieta vignette for all vehicles on national roads and highways. Check https://www.roviniete.ro/ for details.
  • Road Safety: Romania has been improving road safety, but remain vigilant, especially at night or in mountainous areas.
  • GPS and Maps: While GPS is generally reliable, keep an updated physical map as a backup.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies.

Useful Links

Currency

Romania Currency

The official currency of Romania is the Romanian Leu (RON).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, 200, 500 Leu
  • Coins: 1, 5, 10, 50 bani
  • Symbol: lei (sometimes written as RON)

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services available at banks, airports, and major hotels.
  • ATMs widely available in urban areas for direct Leu withdrawals.

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred, especially in rural areas.
  • Credit/debit cards accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans.
  • Carry some cash for small purchases and rural areas.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the National Bank of Romania website: https://www.bnr.ro/.
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Romania

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in Romania, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences. Even small quantities can lead to criminal charges.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Public intoxication is frowned upon.
    • Smoking banned in indoor public spaces.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Avoid discussing the Roma community or historical disputes unless invited.
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are legal, but same-sex marriage is not recognized. Public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention.
  • Photography: Restricted near military sites or critical infrastructure. Always ask permission for portraits of locals.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 1L spirits | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over €10,000 (or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, endangered species products.
  • Counterfeit goods (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport.

Complaints

  • Submit grievances to the Tourism Office Inspectorate or Customer Protection Commission: https://anpc.ro/.

Beach Access

  • Public beaches must allow free access within 2.5 meters of the shoreline. Wheelchair access is legally mandated where applicable.

Key Resources

Safety

Romania Travel Safety

Romania is generally safe for travellers, with low crime rates and a reputation for hospitality. However, travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Romania.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is rare but possible in crowded areas like markets or public transport in Bucharest. Violent crime against tourists is extremely uncommon.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Romania is considered safe, with locals often going out of their way to assist visitors. Avoid isolated areas at night.
  • Road Safety:
    • Driving can be challenging due to aggressive drivers and poor rural road conditions.
    • Avoid night driving in mountainous areas like the Carpathians.
    • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Tap water is safe in most areas; bottled water recommended in rural regions.
    • Practice safe eating habits to prevent travellers’ diarrhea.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, tetanus, COVID-19, and rabies (for long-term stays).
    • Yellow Fever: Required only if arriving from a risk country.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases:
    • Use insect repellent to guard against West Nile virus and tick-borne illnesses (e.g., Lyme disease in forests).
  • Altitude Sickness:
    • Risk exists in areas above 2,500 meters (e.g., Făgăraș Mountains). Ascend gradually and stay hydrated.

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Private facilities like Regina Maria in Bucharest or MedLife offer higher standards. Rural areas often lack advanced care.
  • Pharmacies: Available in cities but carry essential medications.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 112 (works for police, ambulance, and fire).
  • Ambulance: 112 | Fire: 112 | Police: 112.
  • Tourist Police (Bucharest): +40 21 312 2555.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a 4x4 for rural/mountainous areas. Check insurance coverage for rentals.
  • Hiking: Use local guides for remote trails (e.g., Transylvanian Alps).
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid discussing ethnic tensions or historical disputes.
  • Air Quality: Pollution can be high in Bucharest; monitor via the World Air Quality Index: https://www.waqi.info/.

Key Links

Flights

Flying to Romania

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