Before my solo trip to Romania, I had no idea where to go or if Romania was safe for solo female travellers. But I researched a lot and spent two months travelling around Romania. I can say for certain that Romania is an excellent off-the-beaten-path destination for solo travellers.
Like I said, I researched a lot and spent quite a bit of time in Romania, which is how I came up with my 10 day Romania itinerary for first time traveller. I included all the best places to visit including the most charming towns and popular seaside resort.
If this is your first time in Romania and wondering what places you need to see, then keep reading. Learn how you can spend 10 days in Romania following my solo Romania itinerary for first time traveller.
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Table of Contents
What you need to know before spending 10 days in Romania
Before starting your Romania itinerary, take a look at some of my travel tips for your first time in Romania:
- Romania is a safe country for solo female travellers. I spent almost two months in Romania in all of the cities mentioned in this post and had no issues.
- Romanian leu (plural: lei) is the currency of Romania. RON is the three-letter code for the Romanian currency.
- Check CFR Călători website or CFR Călători app for the schedules and cost for all the trains you will need to take for this 10 day Romania itinerary.
- This Romania itinerary is relatively fast-paced. Pack minimally so you can move around easier. Following my minimalist packing list template and pack a carry-on bag weighing less than 7kg.
10 days in Romania: how to get around by train
Romanian Railway, CFR Călători
The best way to travel around Romania is by taking the Romanian Railway, CFR Călători.
CFR Călători connects every major city and town in Romania. It is probably the most cost-effective and “reliable” mode of transportation for solo and independent travellers.
But here is what you need to know about CFR Călători:
- No significant difference between first class and second class seats
- It can be hot in summer (not enough or no air conditioning)
- It can be warm in the winter (too much heat)
- Even though CFR Călători can be “reliable,” expect delays
Check the CFR Călători website or app for train schedules and costs. I suggest buying your train ticket for your next leg of the journey once you arrive in a new city. i.e. when you arrive in Brasov, buy a train ticket for Sighisoara.
Other mode of transportation
There are several independent train companies that have routes between Bucharest and Constanta and between Bucharest and Brasov. They are slightly cheaper, but their infrequent schedules can be limiting especially when you are only spending 10 days in Romania.
Moreover, there are long-distance buses in Romania. But from my experience, it is difficult to buy bus tickets, locate the bus company and sometimes the bus company will stop running the routes even though it is advertised online. Therefore, not reliable.
How many days in Romania for first time visitors
As many as you can! I spent more than a month in Romania and I can honestly stay longer if I could.
If I were to do it all over again as a first time traveller to Romania, I would definitely include Bucharest as the capital city has a lot to do. There are many picturesque towns in Transylvania which are absolutely worth visiting; so definitely need to include a few. And also the Black Sea is worth visiting if you have never been.
To see all the places mentioned above, you would have to spend a minimum of 10 days in Romania.
And if you can spare a few more days, I would add it to each of the cities mentioned in this itinerary and not add new places since this itinerary is relatively fast-paced.
Summary: 10 days in Romania as a first-timer
My ultimate Romania 10 day itinerary starts in the capital city, Bucharest. From there, travel east and stay overnight in the popular seaside town of Constanta. Then return to Bucharest and go on a day trip to Transylvania.
Next, spend two nights in Brasov, one night in the UNESCO historic city of Sighisoara, and then two nights in Sibiu where you will take a day trip to the Transfagarasan Highway.
Then return to Bucharest where you can continue your journey or return home.
Here is a quick summary of my 10 day Romania itinerary:
- Day 1-2: Bucharest
- Day 3-4: Constanta and Bucharest
- Day 5-6: Brasov, including a day trip around Transylvania
- Day 7: Sighisoara
- Day 8-9: Sibiu, including a day trip to Transfăgărășan Highway
- Day 10: Depart from Bucharest
Romania itinerary day 1 – 2: Bucharest (2 days)
Bucharest, the capital city of Romania, is the country’s cultural, financial and industrial centre. The city has a mix of culture and architectural style that earned its nickname, “Paris of the East.”
While in Bucharest, see various religious and cultural buildings, admire the socialist architecture, and try delicious traditional Romanian food.
Bucharest Accommodation: Moxy Bucharest Old Town
Book three nights (day 1, 2 and 4) at Moxy Bucharest Old Town. Stay two nights in this 3.5-star contemporary and come back again after your visit to Constanta on day 3. The hotel is in the middle of Old Town, and you can earn Marriott Bonvoy points.
Day 1: Bucharest
All the major Bucharest attractions can be seen on day 1. Everything is located within walking distance. The detailed itinerary for the day is in my Bucharest post.
Here are some of the best things to see in the capital city:
- Visit the Palace of the Parliament, the second-largest administrative building in the world
- Join a Bucharest free walking tour
- Walk around and lunch in Bucharest Old Town
- Wander around Calea Victoriei and Piata Romana
- Watch a synchronized water show at Bucharest Fountain between June and October
Day 2: Bucharest
For day 2 of my Romania travel itinerary, I suggest getting a 24-hour pass (8 lei) for all the surface transportation (i.e. buses and trams). Purchase the day pass from the STB kiosks next to a major bus or tram stop. Make sure to validate your ticket when you board the bus or tram.
Here are some of the things you will see in Bucharest on day 2:
- Visit Bazarul cu Amintiri – Targul Valea Cascadelor or Vitan Flea Market
- Wander around Obor Market, the oldest and biggest market in Bucharest
- See the Arch of Triumph at Parcul Herăstrău aka King Mihai I Park
- Visit one of the 60 museums in Bucharest
- Have a Romanian feast at Hanu’ lui Manuc Restaurant
Romania itinerary day 3 – 4: Constanta and Bucharest (2 days)
Constanta is the largest port city on the Black Sea and one of the largest ports in Europe. Located in southeastern Romania, this seaside resort town is popular with locals. Weekends can be busy, and the summer is full of tourists.
While you are in Constanta, see historical monuments, the grand casino, various museums and beaches along the Black Sea coast.
Travel from Bucharest to Constanta
There are 14 trains from Bucharest to Constanta daily. Take one of the morning trains so you will have plenty of time to explore Constanta.
Recommendation: Take the 7:30am – 9:52am train from Bucharest to Constanta. The trip is about 2 hours 22 minutes and costs 100.95 lei (first class) and 68.65 lei (second class).
Constanta Accommodation: Peninsula Boutique Hotel
Stay overnight in Constanta so you can stay on the Black Sea coast a little longer. Check into the Peninsula Boutique Hotel for one night. The 4-star hotel is located in the Old Town.
Day 3: Constanta
Constanta was founded around 600 BC. There are over 2,000 years of history in this port city and many of the historic buildings and monuments can be found in the Old Town. Besides seeing ancient artifacts, the city is lined with beautiful beaches too.
Here are some of the highlights in Constanta that you can see on day 3:
- Stroll around Ovid’s Square and see Ovid’s statue and the Museum of National History and Archeology
- Wander around the Old Town and see historical monuments and buildings, including the House of Lions and the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul
- See the seaside Constanta Casino even though it is under renovation
- Have some fun in the sun at Modern Beach or Reyna Beach in Constanta
- Eat traditional Romanian food in Luna Park
Day 4: Constanta and Bucharest
On day 4, travel north of Constanta and visit the Mamaia beach. The long and narrow stretch of beach between the Black Sea and Lake Siutghiol is the perfect spot for swimming, snorkelling, sunbathing and relaxing.
Besides the beach, there are many beach resorts, a casino, sporting facilities and beachfront restaurants.
It takes about an hour to walk from the Peninsula Boutique Hotel to the south end of Mamaia Beach. Or take Bus 5-40 (single ticket costs 2.5 lei) which can get your there in less than 30 minutes. This is the bus route to Mamaia Beach.
Stay in the area of Mamaia Beach for as long as you like. Then in late afternoon, make your way back to Bucharest.
Travel from Constanta to Bucharest
14 trains are going back to Bucharest from Constanta each day. I recommend choosing one of the trains in the late afternoon so you can have a proper dinner in Bucharest.
Recommendation: Take the 4:30pm – 6:52pm train from Constanta to Bucharest. The trip is about 2 hours 22 minutes and costs 100.95 lei (first class) and 68.65 lei (second class).
Romania itinerary day 5 – 6: Brasov (2 days)
Brasov is part of the historical region of Transylvania and is surrounded by Southern Carpathian Mountains. And it is Romania’s 7th most populated city.
Because Brasov is located at the intersection of the trading routes between the Ottoman Empire and Western Europe, the city became a hub for merchants in the 13th century. With increased wealth and political influence, Brasov became a powerful city in Romania.
Today, it is one of the best cities to visit in Romania. And one of my favourites in Romania!
The journey to Brasov starts with an organized tour around Transylvania where the tour can end in Brasov. Then spend the following day exploring Brasov.
Travel from Bucharest to Brasov
Since Brasov is the last stop on the day tour, you can ask the tour company to let you stay in Brasov instead of returning to Bucharest. That way you can continue your itinerary and not backtrack to Bucharest and then back to Brasov again.
Recommendation: ask the tour company to drop you off in Brasov instead of returning to Bucharest
Brasov Accommodation: Schuster Boarding House
Book two nights at Schuster Boarding House, a cute boutique hotel with modern and cozy guestrooms. The 3-star hotel is within walking distance of everything.
Day 5: Day trip to Transylvania
Every Romania itinerary must include a visit to Bran Castle, also known as Dracula’s Castle. Join an organized day trip from Bucharest to tour around Transylvania, which includes Peles Castle and Bran Castle, and Brasov.
On the day tour, this is what you will see:
- Peles Castle – stop in a small town called Sinaia first, then visit the Neo-Renaissance castle in the Carpathian Mountains.
- Bran Castle – see the famous Dracula’s Castle in Bran and learn more about the story of Vlad the Impaler, which inspired Bram Stoker’s novel, Dracula.
- Brasov – roam around the Old Town in the medieval town with a guided tour.
The tour includes transportation from Bucharest and a tour guide but doesn’t include any castle admissions.
As I mentioned already, the last stop of the tour is in Brasov. Ask the tour company to let you stay there instead of returning to Bucharest. That way you can continue your itinerary and not backtrack to Bucharest and then back to Brasov again.
Day 6: Brasov
On day 6 of my Romania itinerary, explore the picturesque city of Brasov. See 800 years of history through historical buildings, restored bastions and fortified guard towers.
During your day in Brasov, make sure to see these attractions:
- See the Brasov sign on Mount Tâmpa via Telecabina Tâmpa or a hiking trail
- Visit the First Romanian School Museum and Saint Nicholas Church at Union Square
- See Eastern Europe’s narrowest street, Rope Street
- Wander around The Council Square
- See views of Brasov from The White Tower and The Black Tower
Romania itinerary day 7: Sighisoara (1 day)
Sighisoara is a small fortified medieval town in Mureș County in Romania. The city was founded in the 12th century by German craftsmen known as Transylvanian Saxons and is part of the historical region of Transylvania.
Today, Sighișoara is known for its colourful houses, soaring watch towers and well-preserved historic centre, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Moreover, it is the birthplace of Vlad Dracul aka Vlad the Impaler.
Travel from Brasov to Sighisoara
Seven trains travel from Brasov to Sighisoara daily, but you should take one of the two trains to Sighisoara in the morning. Either train will give you sufficient time to explore Sighisoara in one day.
Recommendation: Take the 8:51am – 12:12pm train from Brasov to Sighisoara. The trip is about 3 hours 21 minutes and costs 64.85 lei (first class) and 45.85 lei (second class).
Sighisoara Accommodation: Boutique Hotel von Graf
Many accommodations in Sighisoara are within the city walls. Boutique Hotel von Graf is a beautiful hotel on the colourful street called Carpenter’s Street. Book one night at this 4-star hotel boutique hotel.
Day 7: Sighisoara
The city wall in Sighisoara separates the city into two parts: the Upper Town (or Citadel) and the Lower Town. Most of the best things to do in Sighişoara are concentrated in the Citadel, but there are a few attractions in the Lower Town and just outside the city centre.
When you spend the day in Sighisoara, these are the sights you will see:
- Climb up The Clock Tower and see an aerial view of Sighişoara
- See all nine watch towers in Sighișoara
- Visit the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler aka Dracula
- Visit Upper Citadel via the Covered Stairway
- Admire historic houses at The Citadel’s Square
Romania itinerary day 8 – 9: Sibiu (2 days)
Sibiu is a small medieval town in Transylvania in Romania. The city is known for its culture, history, and Transylvanian Saxon architecture. It was named the European Capital of Culture in 2007 and is an important craft and cultural centre in Romania.
Sibiu is also known as “The City of Eyes” due to the city’s unique architectural features on the roof of houses. Wherever you go, these “eyes” follow you. Very unique and maybe a bit creepy. And once you see them, you cannot unsee them. Ha!
Travel from Sighisoara to Sibiu
Three trains travel from Sighisora to Sibiu daily. Take one of the early trains in Sighisora so you can have a full day exploring Sibiu.
Recommendation: Take the 6:56am – 9:14am Sighisoara to Sibiu train. The trip is about 2 hours 19 minutes and costs 23.75 lei (first class) and 15.2 lei (second class).
Sibiu Accommodation: Cetatea Medievala
Book two nights at Cetatea Medievala, a 4-star hotel in the middle of the historical centre of Sibiu. This location is excellent for exploring Sibiu and taking a day trip to Transfagarasan.
Day 8: Sibiu
There are three parts to Sibiu: the Old City (the historical centre of Sibiu), the Lower Town (north of Old City) and the Upper Town (south of Old City). Most attractions are located in the Old City, but it is worth exploring the Upper and Lower Towns.
Here are some of the best things to see in Sibiu in one day:
- Climb up The Council Tower to see an aerial view of Sibiu
- See if The Bridge of Lies collapses when you tell a lie
- Spot Sibiu’s iconic “eyes” in The Small Square and The Big Square
- Walk down to the Lower Town via Goldsmith’s Stairway Tower, The Stairs Passage or The Stairs Tower
- See the citadel towers at Citadel Park in Upper Town
Day 9: Day trip to Transfagarasan Highway
If you travel to Sibiu between June and October, explore Transfagarasan, a winding highway in the southern section of the Carpathian Mountains. The road climbs to an altitude of 2,042m, making it the second-highest paved road in the country.
During a day trip around the Transfagarasan mountain road, here is what you will see:
- See the winding road with many hairpin turns and sharp descents
- Explore Balea Lake and waterfall on your own
How to get there: Get a return bus transfer from Sibiu to Balea and see Transfagarasan and Balea.
Romania itinerary day 10: Bucharest (1 day)
It is the last day of this epic itinerary in Romania.
Whether you are flying home from Bucharest or continuing on your travels around Eastern Europe, it is time to go back to Bucharest, and it is a long one.
Travel from Sibiu to Bucharest
Three trains run daily from Sibiu to Bucharest, but start very early or late. I suggest taking one of the early trains so you can arrive in Bucharest before noon and you can catch your flight on the same day.
Recommendation: Take the 5:49am – 11:19am train from Sibiu to Bucharest. The trip is about 5 hours 30 minutes and costs 82.9 lei (second class only).
Are you ready to start your Romania travel itinerary?
From not knowing what Romania is all about to completely fallen in love with the country. I had some of the best travel moments in Romania.
I considered including other cities like Cluj-Napoca, Timisoara, and Oradea to the itinerary. But each of these destinations seemed a bit far, and I feel like you can see and feel all the typical characteristics of Romania by going to the cities mentioned in this itinerary.
So if you are backpacking in Romania or travelling solo and want to do a bit of train travel in Romania, you may find this itinerary and all the travel tips helpful.
Let me know in the comments below if you like this itinerary or have any suggestions to make it even better.
Thank you for reading my solo Romania itinerary post
You may also like these other posts:
Romania posts
- Bucharest 1, 2 and 3-day solo itineraries
- 25 Best Bucharest food: What and where to eat in Bucharest
- Best things to do in Brasov in one day
- Things to do in Sighisoara Romania: 1-day itinerary
- One day in Sibiu: top things to do
- How to spend one day in Constanta Romania
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