Things to do & places to visit in Transylvania, Romania

Transylvania #1 destination in Romania 2023. The average rating score is 4.36 based on 37.9k traveler reviews, of 90 attractions. Timezone: Europe/Bucharest, current date and time: Saturday, April 27, 2024, 10:46.

Top things to do (26)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Cetatea Alba Iulia (673 reviews)
- Alba Carolina Citadel
Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Historic Walking Areas • Castles

*** Alba Iulia - Alba Carolina Citadel *** A town coated by the legendary halo of the great historical events that took place within its ancient walls, Alba Iulia has deeply got into the Romanian people's mind and soul. No other Transylvanian town has gathered so many crucial meanings and symbols. With thousands and thousands of years of human existence lying behind it, Alba Iulia represents the charming mirror in which all the ethnic groups of Transylvania can discover their vigor or their traditions of yore. The heart of Alba Iulia is Alba Carolina Citadel. Alba Carolina, the most representative bastion fortress in Romania and Southeast Europe, built upon the initiative of Emperor Charles the VIth of Habsburg, under the supervision of the French-born Austrian field marshal Eugene of Savoy, is wearing its royal robe. A royal citadel, residence of the bishopric, capital of autonomous principality, and a military garrison, Alba Iulia has been during all historical periods the main political, administrative, religious, cultural, and military centre of Transylvania. We invite you to visit The Other Capital of Romania. See more..
5.0 Art & Crafts (247 reviews)
- Art and Crafts
Spent < 1 hour Art Galleries • Speciality Museums

My name is Mark Tudose and I am looking forward to tell you my story. We are a group of Romanian artisans trying to keep the traditions alive. See more..
5.0 ExitGames Timisoara (228 reviews)
- Best Group Activity
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 9:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games

A reality adventure game where a team of players (2 to 8 people) has to escape a locked room by solving different puzzles and mysteries using the clues found in the room in 60 minutes. To succeed, the team needs to have good communication between its members. Our game designs are specifically based on certain discoveries in the area of psychology, the goal is to achieve a high level of player immersion in the game so that the participants may reach the so-called FLOW state. That certain mental state, when people are so absorbed by an activity that nothing else seems to bother them; that experience itself is so pleasant that the people will try to repeat it no matter what, just for the sake of the doing it” - Mihály Csikszentmihályi researcher in the field of psychology, who first defined the FLOW concept See more..
5.0 The Dracula Investigation (226 reviews)
- Historical facts, ... and very few legends about the Vlad "Dracula - the Impaler" Tepes.
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Art Galleries • History Museums

Welcome to The Dracula Investigat the ultimate destination for history buffs and thrill-seekers alike. Our unique fusion of art and technology offers visitors a fresh and exciting way to experience the rich history of our region takes you on a journey through the fascinating story of Vlad Țepeș, also known as Vlad Dracula. Through historical documentation, we aim to debunk the myths surrounding this Wallachian ruler and raise the question: was he a hero or a villain? The exhibition take visitors through a series of rooms, where art installations, light and shadow shows, and multimedia projections engage all five senses, resulting in an immersive experience that is both educational and entertaining. Each experience usually takes around 20 minutes to complete. See more..
4.5 Centrul Istoric Sighișoara (1.601 reviews)
- Well preserved historic centre
Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Historic Walking Areas • Architectural Buildings

This UNESCO listed historic centre is much smaller and a great deal more intimate than Sibiu and the upper town which is the main attraction for visiting can be seen properly in a half day. At the time of our mid-October visit it was still relatively busy so would guess that in the heart of the tourist season it gets very congested with visitors as the place is relatively small with many narrow streets. Parking can be problematic but as we were staying overnight, it wasn’t an issue for us. This is one place not to miss. The restoration is spectacular. See more..
4.5 Piața Sfatului (1.587 reviews)
- A great starting point for exploring Brasov
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Council Square (a.k.a. Piața Sfatului) is in the heart of old town. Brașov was an important local and international trading center in medieval times; Piața Sfatului has been holding weekly markets since 1364. The former Council House (Casa Sfatului; built in 1420) is in the middle of the square and is now the Brașov County Museum of History. The square is a good starting point for exploring the old town. A great fire destroyed most of the former walled city in 1689; it took several decades to rebuild. Piața Sfatului is surrounded by 18th-19th century houses, historic sights, museums, indoor and outdoor terraces, shops and restaurants. The square and surrounding streets are accessible at all times with no entry fee. Landmarks are beautifully lit at night. See more..
4.5 Brasov Historical Center (1.375 reviews)
- Welcoming and charming old city center
Spent More than 3 hours Neighborhoods • Historic Walking Areas

The old center of Brasov, one of the southernmost cities in the Transilvania region, is just simply beautiful and charming. Be sure to differentiate between Centrul Nou (New Center) and Centrul Veche (Old Center), as the new center is not specifically interesting or appealing. The new center is the area you walk in when you leave the train station and walk southward. The old center is typically clean, decorated with old and charming, colorful houses that are mostly in a quite good condition. The squares are also very nice and provide spacey terraces where one can very well drink a beer or coffee in the sun - but of course, as Brasov is situated next to mountains, it also rains quite often. I actually like the entire inner city of Brasov - it breathes that specific atmosphere that one feels as welcoming, charming and relaxing. Highly recommended for a 2-3 days stay. See more..
4.5 Big Square (Piata Mare) (1.374 reviews)
- Centre of the City
Saturday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks

Big Square is Sibiu’s historical centre, where there are important historical monuments, many of which are part of the UNESCO patrimony. See more..
4.5 Muntele Tâmpa (1.091 reviews)
- Great walk
Saturday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent 2-3 hours Mountains

I walked up this mountain while staying in Brasov. It was beautiful and not too difficult. I took one of the paths next to the cable car entry. There are a few viewpoints which are amazing views of the city so it is well worth it. If lazy you can take the cable car or do what I did and take it going down only for 15 lei. See more..
4.5 Grădina Botanică "Alexandru Borza" (1.043 reviews)
- An awsome adventure place
Gardens

I' ve been here with my family. It is a very nice place. We discovered something new by every step. There were plenty of hidden paths that took us in the mountains, then to the hills and to Danube Delta- All at minimized sizes. Japanese Gardens were nice and also mini rivers. I recommend to visit it when you are in Cluj! See more..
4.5 Castelul Corvinilor (973 reviews)
- One of Europe's largest castles, a must see in Romania
Spent 1-2 hours Castles

Corvin Castle, also known as Hunyadi Castle or Hunedoara Castle, is a Gothic-Renaissance castle in Hunedoara, Romania. It is one of the largest castles in Europe and is featured as one of the Seven Wonders of Romania. Although it is mostly in renovations, i have visited this place many times, and is always on the list when in the area (even if we do not go inside). History, medieval castle, museums. 2 hours is plenty to visit the whole castle (if you do not count the adjacent museums which are included in the ticket price). See more..
4.5 Muzeul Astra (949 reviews)
- We highly recommend this place
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Speciality Museums

ASTRA Museum is the largest open air museum from Europe and the most complete (traditional architecture, crafts, events, exhibitions a.s.o.), more than 10 km alleys and over 400 buildings of wood, stone, brick reconstructed in the museum to illustrate the everyday/ daily life of the ancestors who lived in villages of Romania. Diversity, multicultural and tradition preserved and relived in The Open Air Museum from Dumbrava Forest are the main assets of the ASTRA Museum. See more..
4.5 Sighișoara Clock Tower (936 reviews)
- Must do to see the whole town
Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

You can buy your ticket for 16 lei full price and then head up to see some different artefacts, mainly about the different guilds which were in the town. The information is in Romanian, English, German and I guess Hungarian? The climb to the top wasn’t too bad but some of the stair cases are a little steep / steps narrow. There are different landings on which you can pause. You can read more about the different figures which are used for different days as you get nearer to the top. The balcony itself is the full 360 degrees and has some markers to show how far certain cities are away in different directions. On a good day, you can get some great shots of the town below - definitely worth a visit. See more..
4.5 Unirii Square (852 reviews)
- Timişoara's most notable square boasts colour and history, among some reputable places to dine.
Points of Interest & Landmarks

The oldest square in Timişoara is without doubt Piata Unirii. Over history, the square hosted marches and religious processions. Now, it's a magnet for a smattering of day trippers and the area deserves plenty of recognition. Its spread of colourful buildings of varying architectural styles on all four sides are most impressive. Early afternoons in June one may easily have the square almost entirely to oneself. Hide under the awnings of restaurant misting systems and enjoy some separation in style. Evenings, locals come out in force to quench their thirst on outside seating that spill out from about a dozen slick restaurants. Union Square also hosts the Art Museum and two splendid 18th century, baroque churches, encircling a fluffy, green lawn and fountain. See more..
4.5 Timișoara Orthodox Cathedral (767 reviews)
- A venerated landmark in the centre of Timişoara
Churches & Cathedrals

It would be a shame to make a visit to Timişoara without stopping by the the most impressive construction in town - Metropolitan Church. At first glance you could easily be beguiled into thinking it's older than it actually is. In fact, it was only completed two years into the Second World War in Moldovian style. There are prominent features of Byzantine architecture and the inside exudes sheer opulence. Besides marking the central point in town, its chimes reverberate around the city. The cathedral is built upon 5,000 oak supports and can house the same number of people. Inside display relics and many religious artifacts. See more..
4.5 Libearty Bear Sanctuary Zarnesti (704 reviews)
- Worth a visit
Saturday: 9:00 AM - 10:45 AM Nature & Wildlife Areas

Libearty Bear Sanctuary is the biggest brown bear sanctuary from Europeand has the largest surface in the world. Here, 75 bears found a nice home in this 5 stars welfare facility. Here you can see happy bears in their natural environment, after a bad life in circuses and zoo cages. The tours are guided by trained animal welfare experts and the visitors can see brown bears really close. See more..
4.5 Piata Victoriei (581 reviews)
- The blooming flower square!
Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks

All major landmarks of Timisoara are within a walking distance in the Old Town. Piata Victoriei is between the Orthodox Cathedral and the Opera house. Victory Square looks great in spring when all the flowers blooming. See more..
4.5 Merry Cemetery (562 reviews)
- one of many places to visit in Maramures
Spent 1-2 hours Cemeteries

A fascinating collection of unique wooden headstones that immortalize details about the deceased. See more..
4.5 Central Park Simion Bărnuțiu (557 reviews)
- A walk in the park
Parks

I was in Cluj for business and when I’ve got a brake me and some friends we went for a walk on a Saturday morning. The first impression was that is a beautiful place and very clean. The park was breath a fresh air in a busy city. See more..
4.5 Turnul Sfatului (The Tower of the Council) (494 reviews)
- A must do
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings • Observation Decks & Towers

For 2 lei this is definitely a must do. The entrance is up some stairs at the bottom of the Council building (under the white arches). You pay and then climb up a few flights of stairs which aren’t too steep and are fairly wide compared to many other towers. At the top, you get a great panorama for the price and, although it’s enclosed so your photos might not be as good, it’s amazing value for the price. If you can time it for golden hour, then you’re in for a treat. See more..
4.5 Poiana Brasov (435 reviews)
- Great skiing destination
Ski & Snowboard Areas

Great place to go skiing, the slopes are really nice and restaurants are delicious, with very good prices. Skipass, ski trainers, restaurants, services all have great prices. In contrast, hotels are very expensive - avoid Centrul de Echitatie in Poiana Brasov, we stayed there (for 130 EUR/night) and it was a total disaster. In rest all was good. See more..
4.5 Lutheran Evangelical Cathedral & Tower (423 reviews)
- Striking landmark
Religious Sites

73.34 m high steeple makes this Striking a landmark of the city. Recently renovated, still you can see some work is still in progress at the spike. Be advised that there is no free entrance to see the church. The entrance is 15 RON, with the tower climbing 25 RON. See more..
4.5 Rex Matia Corvin Statue (419 reviews)
- Cluj-Napoca
Monuments & Statues

New business trip, new location, ne attractions. Now I'm in Romania, in Cluj-Napoca, an enchanting city. See more..
4.5 Cheile Turzii (395 reviews)
- A wonderful reservation
Saturday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas

One of the best preserved natural reservation from Romania. During our trip to Apuseni Mountains, we had here a great day for 2 hours. It is a wild and spectacular landscape. Over 1000 species of plants, animals, insects live in this area. Here there are few rare plants. Turda Gorge has one of the most spectacular karst landscapes in Romania. Those 4 bridges allow to go on the full route in reservation. Worth it fully to be here to have an unforgettable trip. See more..
4.5 Centrul Istoric (360 reviews)
- Stunning Place
Spent More than 3 hours Neighborhoods • Historic Walking Areas

Another stunning little city, Romania really is blessed with so many delightful, historical towns & cities. Sibiu, with a population of circa 150,000, is fairly large, but the old centre, where the bulk of the sites of interest reside, is pretty compact & well suited to walking. Split between an upper & lower section, the primary sites include 3 main squares, the principal pedestrianised thoroughfare, Strada Nicolae Balcescu, picturesque Bridge of Lies, plus various churches (my favourite being The Holy Trinity) & other buildings of architectural importance. Look out for the Houses with Eyes! Ample restaurants, cafes, hotels & museums too, in addition to the remaining towers & walls encircling parts of the city. Unsurprisingly given its history, Sibiu has a strong Germanic flavour. It’s immaculate, orderly & beautiful. See more..
4.5 Memorial of the Victims of Communism and of the Resistance (340 reviews)
- Sad but beautiful experience in a communist prison - turned museum
Saturday: 9:30 AM - 6:30 PM History Museums

Sad but beautiful experience in a communist prison - turned museum. The real history they still don't teach in schools unfortunately. 3 floors with with papers, pictures and memorabilia, nicely arranged showing what was actually behind the curtains of the 'Romanian golden age'. Not sure if English audio guide is available, I believe it would be a good addition if not. See more..
4.5 Biertan Fortified Church (339 reviews)
- Largest and oldest saxon fortified church
Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings • Churches & Cathedrals

Greatest Saxon fortified church from XV century, in Transylvania. The altar piece is one of the oldest painted tryptich and there is also an amazing lock piece on the sacristy door as well as many sculpted figures of the local personalities of the time. There was a local exhibit of art tiles from a local factory as well. The surrounding village and nature are impressive. See more..
4.5 Viscri Fortified Church (328 reviews)
- The Pretty Village of Viscri
Saturday: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Churches & Cathedrals

A nominal fee to visit the fortified church at the top of the village, it has a few exhibitions, of farming implements etc. I didn't spend long exploring the church, of far more interest was the main village street, with it's quaint lost in time houses, and the people, many traditionally dressed & using horse pulled carts. Life lived the old fashioned way. Viscri is where Prince Charles has a house & it is he who has put the village on the map (& caused the spike in house prices by all accounts!). See more..
4.5 Barsana Monastery (327 reviews)
- A must if you are in Maramures!
Spent < 1 hour Churches & Cathedrals

This complex of wooden churches and buildings is an amazing place of peace and serenity. The main church is 57 m high and it was built recently between 1993-1995. We have visited the complex during sunset and we were blown away by the beauty of the place. This complex should be put on the itinerary of every traveller that visits Maramures. It is a UNESCO Heritage Site and it has plenty of facilities from souvenir shop to kiosks selling the local pie and refreshing drinks. There is even an ATM of BRD near the parking area. There is no entrance fee for touring the complex. See more..
4.5 Catedrala Sfântul Mihail (305 reviews)
- Cluj-Napoca
Churches & Cathedrals

The downtown of Cluj-Napoca (Northern Romania) is a bijoux. There are a lot of attractions. St. Micheal Church is very popular. See more..