Romania is a country known for its stunning landscapes, medieval castles, and rich history. While many tourists flock to popular destinations such as Transylvania or the Black Sea coast, there are also plenty of lesser-known beautiful places to discover. Here’s a comprehensive guide to some of Romania’s hidden gems:
Sighisoara
This beautiful fortified city is often overlooked in favor of the more famous Bran Castle. However, Sighisoara is just as charming, with cobbled streets, colorful houses, and a picturesque citadel. It’s also the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula.
Sinaia
This charming mountain town is home to the stunning Peles Castle, which was built in the 19th century as a summer residence for the Romanian royal family. The castle features a blend of architectural styles, from Gothic to Renaissance, and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and a forest.
Retezat National Park
This stunning park in the Carpathian Mountains is home to rugged peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and rare flora and fauna. It’s a paradise for hikers and nature lovers, with over 100 marked trails and plenty of opportunities for camping and wildlife spotting.
Corvin Castle
While Bran Castle gets all the attention, Corvin Castle is just as impressive. This Gothic fortress in Hunedoara is one of the largest castles in Europe, with impressive towers, intricate stone carvings, and a moat. It’s also rumored to be haunted by ghosts and was featured in the film “The Nun.”
Turda Gorge
This breathtaking canyon in Transylvania is a favorite among adventure seekers. It offers stunning views, challenging hikes, and plenty of opportunities for rock climbing and rappelling. There’s also a cave system to explore and a beautiful waterfall.
Danube Delta
The Danube Delta is a unique ecosystem and one of the largest wetlands in the world. It’s home to over 300 species of birds, as well as wild horses, otters, and other wildlife. Visitors can take boat tours to explore the delta’s channels and islands, and there are also opportunities for fishing and kayaking.
Maramures
This region in northern Romania is famous for its traditional wooden churches and villages, where locals still practice age-old customs and crafts. The region is also home to stunning natural landscapes, such as the Merry Cemetery in Sapanta, where colorful tombstones depict the lives of the deceased.
Biertan Fortified Church
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most impressive fortified churches in Transylvania. It’s surrounded by defensive walls and towers and features intricate Gothic architecture and a massive wooden door with 19 locks. Inside, visitors can admire beautiful frescoes and a rare medieval portable organ.
Balea Lake
This glacial lake in the Fagaras Mountains is one of Romania’s most beautiful natural wonders. It’s surrounded by rugged peaks and accessible by cable car or a challenging hike. Visitors can rent kayaks or take a dip in the icy waters in the summer, or ski and snowboard in the winter.
Bucovina Painted Monasteries
These eight Orthodox monasteries in northern Romania are famous for their vibrant frescoes and religious art. The monasteries date back to the 15th and 16th centuries and are adorned with scenes from the Bible, as well as depictions of saints and miracles. The most famous of the monasteries is Voronet, which is known as the “Sistine Chapel of the East” due to its stunning blue frescoes.
Romania is a country full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. From stunning natural landscapes to rich cultural heritage, Romania has something for every type of traveler.
Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or architecture, these lesser-known beautiful places in Romania are definitely worth a visit. So why not step off the beaten path and explore the hidden gems of this fascinating country? You won’t be disappointed!