Planning a trip to Romania doesn't have to be difficult. Known for its beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities, this country is a stunning destination. Our travel cost guide will help you plan a perfect trip on your ideal budget. We've collected tons of travel cost data from previous travelers, and we're revealing average hotel prices and dining costs along with sightseeing and transportation tips. Now you'll be able to craft a memorable adventure without blowing your budget.
How much does it cost to travel to Romania?
You should plan to spend around $101 (lei467) per day on your vacation in Romania. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.
Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:
- $46 (lei214) on meals
- $21 (lei99) on local transportation
- $61 (lei284) on hotels
A one week trip to Romania for two people costs, on average, $1,409 (lei6,538). This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.
-
One Week
Per person
$704
lei3,269
-
2 Weeks
Per person
$1,409
lei6,538
-
One Month
Per person
$3,018
lei14,010
-
One Week
For a couple
$1,409
lei6,538
-
2 Weeks
For a couple
$2,817
lei13,076
-
One Month
For a couple
$6,037
lei28,020
How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Romania cost?
A one week trip to Romania usually costs around $704 (lei3,269) for one person and $1,409 (lei6,538) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
A two week trip to Romania on average costs around $1,409 (lei6,538) for one person and $2,817 (lei13,076) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.
Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Romania will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.
A one month trip to Romania on average costs around $3,018 (lei14,010) for one person and $6,037 (lei28,020) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.
Independent Travel
Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.
All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.
Is Romania expensive to visit?
Romania is a reasonably affordable destination to visit. It is in the top 25% of countries in the world for its affordability. If you're traveling on a budget, then this is a good destination with affordable accommodation, food, and transportation.
Within Europe, which is known to be an expensive region, Romania is reasonably affordable compared to the other countries. It is in the top 25% of countries in Europe for its affordability. You can find more affordable countries such as Ukraine, but there are also more expensive countries, such as Svalbard and Jan Mayen Islands.
In Romania, you'll find accommodation and activities that cater to both budget travelers and those seeking a more lavish experience. Budget accommodation options are available, such as hostels in Bucharest, Brasov, and Cluj-Napoca / Kolozsvar, but there are also luxury hotels that cater to the more affluent customer, along with mid-range hotels for families or couples.
Romania doesn't have to break the bank if you follow simple tips like eating at less expensive restaurants and enjoying free activities.
On average, budget travelers spend $47 (lei214) per person per day, mid-range travelers spend $102 (lei467) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $219 (lei1,003) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Romania.
For more details, see Is Romania Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Romania?
The average Romania trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Romania travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Romania cost?
Romania on a Budget
|
Category
|
Budget
|
Mid-Range
|
Luxury
|
Accommodation 1
For 1 person in double occupancy
|
$13
(lei59)
|
$31
(lei142)
|
$68
(lei314)
|
|
Local Transportation 1
|
$9.00
(lei42)
|
$21
(lei99)
|
$46
(lei213)
|
|
Food 2
|
$19
(lei88)
|
$46
(lei214)
|
$106
(lei492)
|
|
Entertainment 1
|
$3.96
(lei18)
|
$9.21
(lei43)
|
$19
(lei86)
|
|
Alcohol 2
|
$2-5
(lei8-25)
|
$4-13
(lei20-59)
|
$9-26
(lei40-120)
|
Romania
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to set realistic expectations about your travel budget. While many people consider themselves "budget" travelers, the truth is that most people don't find this shoestring travel style to be enjoyable. Consider what you genuinely appreciate on a trip and think about your previous travel experiences. Do you lean more towards staying in nice resorts, or mid-range hotels, or maybe even hostels? Is dining out in nice restaurants something you prioritize? Your answers will have a big impact on your overall travel budget.
The Truth on Budget Travel
People often say you can visit Romania for just $47 daily, but unless you're okay with sacrificing many comforts, be ready to shell out a lot more.
Backpackers can typically make that budget work, but it usually requires sleeping in dorm-style hostels, eating at the most affordable restaurants or fast food spots, taking public transit or walking, and sticking to free sights.
Thankfully, Romania offers a wide variety of hostels, with the largest selection found in Bucharest, Brasov, and Cluj-Napoca / Kolozsvar.
Is Your Travel Style Average?
If you're on vacation as a couple or with family, you'll likely choose a mid-range hotel, eat at popular restaurants, and visit the must-see attractions, which often come with entry fees. Most travelers will want to visit the major sights, and landmarks. As most things cost money, it's best to expect a daily budget of about $102 per person.
Romania has a wide selection of hotels and vacation rentals to fit any travel style. You'll likely be cutting your individual costs by sharing your hotel room with a partner, friends, or your kids. In family-friendly spots like , you'll come across plenty of hotels and restaurants designed with kids in mind. In Sibiu, check out Huet Residence, or consider Pensiunea Normandia in Timisoara. For couples visiting Baia Sprie, check out Hotel Secret Garden for a romantic place to stay. For more family and couples options, see our hotel guide for Romania here.
Want to Escape the Daily Grind in Style?
To experience a truly luxurious getaway, where everything from the service to the accommodation is elevated, plan for a daily price near $219. This means booking luxury hotels, dining in five-star restaurants, enjoying exclusive excursions, and hiring private drivers. You'll be vacationing among the wealthy in destinations like Cluj-Napoca / Kolozsvar and Bucharest. Or you could plan an multi-day adventure by booking a higher end tour such as 15 Days trips in Romania, Moldavia, Bulgaria - offered by Nicolas Experience Tours.
Accommodation Budget in Romania
Romania offers hotels with a wide range of prices. You might be surprised at the difference between budget and high-end options, especially during peak season when prices increase significantly. To save, visit in the off-season, and book early for better deals.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Romania for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $61 (lei284). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $31 (lei142) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Romania? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
Bucharest
In Bucharest, which is a medium city, expect a fairly wide range of choices and prices for accommodation. Hotel prices here can range from $33 in the low season to $155 during the peak season. My Hotel Apartments ($104) is one of the best hotel options here, and Crystal Palace Hotel Bucharest is also good, and starts at $76. You can expect to pay around $14 for a dorm bed if you decide to stay in a hostel.
Local Transportation Budget in Romania
Calculated from travelers like you
-
On average, past travelers have spent $21 (lei99) per person, per day, on local transportation in Romania. The cost of a taxi ride or rideshare service (Uber/Lyft) in Romania is significantly more than public transportation.
-
Local Transportation1
Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
$21
lei99
With an outstanding train system, Romania connects you to almost anywhere in the country. The prices are quite reasonable, and the rides are both fast and comfortable. When rail lines don't reach your destination, long-distance and regional buses can step in.
Many destinations around Romania have limited options for public transportation unless you're visiting places like Bucharest. You should plan to rent a car or have a prearranged form of transportation available, such as a tour. However, this may cut into your overall trip budget.
Planning to explore the countryside? You'll likely want to rent a car. Keep in mind that the average car in Europe has a manual transmission, and an automatic will come at a higher price. It's best to make your reservation early, as the cheaper options often sell out fast.
If you're bringing a car to a larger city, be sure to inquire about parking at your hotel beforehand. You may need to pay for parking either at the hotel or at a nearby garage. Finding a spot further from the city could save you some money.
Food Budget in Romania
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Romania can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Romania is $46 (lei214) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$46
lei214
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Romania is about $47 (lei214) per person. Previous travelers have typically spent from $19 to $108 per day. Generally, breakfast and lunch will cost less than dinner, but that will vary based on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Romania are as follows:
- Breakfast: $8 to $14
- Lunch: $7 to $23
- Dinner: $16 to $37
- Coffee: $4
- Fast Food or Street Food: $7
Romanian food is an interesting mix of Oriental, Austrian and French flavors, all with a local twist. Street food is generally available throughout the country as are excellent pastries. It is not hard to find traditional Romanian food, and unless you're in a larger city, international food may be more difficult to come by.
Bulz: This traditional Romanian dish is made with roasted polenta that has been filled with several different kinds of cheeses, bacon and sour cream. It is often served with an egg as well.
Salata Boef:This dish, a beef salad, is usually served during special occasions. It can actually be made with beef, chicken, or even vegetarian. The meat and root vegetables are prepared with mayonnaise and garnished with pickled vegetables. It is often topped with tomatoes and parsley.
Tochitura: This traditional dish is a stew like meal that is made with beef and pork and a tomato sauce. It can be prepared with traditional sausages as well. It is usually served with polenta and fried eggs.
Romania is an excellent place to savor local cuisine, offering a wide selection of tasty dishes. Some of the top cities for food lovers include Bucharest.
Bucharest
Bucharest is one of the best culinary destinations in Romania. Many Romanian recipes have been passed down through the generations and they still use traditional flavors. You'll see some German or Hungarian influences, but the flavors are still uniquely Romanian. Popular dishes include ciorba (tripe soup), cabbage rolls, and mici (grilled meat rolls).
When traveling with children, look for restaurants with a kids menu. This can save you plenty of money as these options tend to be much lower in price. Some restaurants don't list the kids' options on their menu, so ask the waiter before you order.
While numerous hotels include breakfast in the overall cost, some might add it as an additional fee. The quality and pricing of breakfast can fluctuate based on the hotel. Knowing this information in advance can guide your decision on whether to indulge in a hotel buffet or opt for a cheaper bakery or café nearby.
Carrying a water bottle instead of buying drinks can help you save money while also being good for the environment.
If a tour is on your agenda, be sure to confirm which meals are covered beforehand. Paying for some food out of pocket can really add to your travel expenses.
If you want to experience the culture in Romania, a food tour or cooking class is a great way to do it. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Taste Romania - Timisoara's Food Tour for $129 details
- Bucharest Historical Food Tour in Old Center for $81 details
- Small-Group organic home-made dinner in a Brasov village for $91 details
- Private Bucharest Food Tour with a Local Foodie for $127 details
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Romania
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Romania typically cost an average of $9.21 (lei43) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$9.21
lei43
With a variety of destinations that are not as heavily trafficked by tourists, Romania offers opportunities to find unique hidden gems. Some of the more visited areas include .
A nice way to explore destinations in Romania is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- Bucharest's Greatest Tour for $28 details
- Timisoara All in One - Walking and Tram Tour for $83 details
- Half-Day Private Food and Wine Walking Tour Oradea Romania for $75 details
- 4x4 Nature Tour in Land of Dracula - 1 day for $196 details
Nightlife Budget in Romania
Calculated from travelers like you
-
The average person spends about $8.43 (lei39) on nightlife and alcoholic beverages in Romania per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.
-
Alcohol2
Drinks for one day
$8.43
lei39
Romania is an exciting destination for nightlife, offering a diverse range of bars, clubs, and parties. Some of the top cities for nightlife enjoyment include Bucharest.
Bucharest
Bucharest is one of the best nightlife destinations in Romania. The city has come to life with its party scene, with many bars and clubs that you can choose from. There are rooftop bars, chic dance clubs, and cozy pubs where you can pass the evening. You'll find most of the upscale clubs in the northern part of the city, with a more casual scene found in the downtown areas around Universitate and Romanā.
Nightlife is often a highlight, but cutting back on alcohol can help you stay within your travel budget.
Nightlife activities and tasting tours are popular in Romania. A few favorites from other travelers include:
- Wine Tasting in Bucharest long version for $65 details
- Romanian Wine Tasting for $96 details
- Pub Crawl in Cluj for $27 details
- Bar Crawling for $43 details
Traveling in Romania
Sighisoara, Romania
Romania is located in the northern part of the Balkan Peninsula and the western shore of the Black Sea. The country's natural beauty includes scenic mountains and untouched countryside. There is also a rich cultural history and an impressive capital city. The vast size of the country gives visitors plenty of opportunities to explore and still discover some untouched beauty. Cities are quite diverse. Some reflect Romania's recent modernization and introduction into the European Union, while others still hold on to the past.
Romania can be divided into 9 different regions. These include Transylvania, Banat, Oltenia, Southern Bukovina, Maramures, Crisana, Dobrogea, Moldavia and Muntenia. The most famous region, Transylvania is noted for its medieval castles and towns, dark forests and snow covered mountains. The region is developing, however, and the cities are young and vibrant with large shopping centers and impressive economic development. Banat is one of the most economically developed regions in the country and it has beautiful cities and villages. Oltenia is known for its monasteries, caves and health resorts, while Southern Bukovina is where you will find Romania's most famous Painted Monasteries. Wooden churches and old villages dot the landscape in Maramures. Most travelers overland enter through Crisana which shares a border with Hungary. There are beach resorts along the Black Sea in Dobrogea and Moldavia has historic cities and medieval fortresses. The capital city of Bucharest is found in the region of Munteia as are mountain resorts and the Prahova Valley.
At A Glance
- Romania's large size and somewhat difficult infrastructure make it inefficient and difficult for travelers to get around. Although the transportation system continues to improve, roads are still inefficient. Train travel has improved dramatically due to some recent upgrades to the system, but ongoing projects on certain tracks continue to slow trains down. It is best to research the current situation before you begin planning your trip.
- The Orthodox Church plays a significant role in Romania's culture. It is one of the most religious countries in Europe, and your visit will likely include some churchs and monasteries. Another unique experience is to visit an Orthodox Mass. It is not uncommon to show up for only a portion of the service. Make sure you are dressed appropriately and show respect to the worshippers. Do note that you can not participate in communion unless you are baptized Orthodox. By attending mass you can truly experience a part of the Romanian culture and have a unique experience away from the tourist attractions.
- If you're interested in doing some local shopping a great way to do this is to visit a weekly fair (referred to as a targ, balci or obor). They are usually held on a Sunday and are a great way to see an authentic part of Romania. Almost anything is available for sale including live animals, clothes, vegetables, and perhaps even farm equipment such as tractors. There is often music, dancing and food stalls as well.
- Wine making in Romania dates back more than 2000 years. The best wineries in the country are Murfatlar, Cotnari, Dragasani, Bohotin and Bucium among others. The quality is generally high but the prices are low so it's a great place to sample a few wines or purchase some to bring home.
- Brewing beer is also popular in Romania. It remains cheap compared to the rest of Europe but the best options are those in the glass bottles or cans. Imported beers are much more expensive than Romanian beers and many international brands are brewed in Romania under a license so they taste very different than elsewhere in Western Europe.
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Top Tourist Attractions
Painted Monasteries of Bucovina: This is one of the most scenic and impressive sights in Romania. The exterior walls are exquisitely decorated with 15th and 16th century frescoes. The site is a truly unique destination for anybody interested in religion, history, art or architecture.
Peles Castle: Peles Castle is a Neo-Renaissance castle that is located northwest of the town of Sinaia. It is about 135 kilometers from Bucharest in the Carpathian Mountains. The complex has three monuments including the Peles Castle, the Pelisor Chateau, and Foisor Huntin. It was situated on a medieval route that linked Transylvania and Wallachia.
Bran Castle: This castle is near Bran and Brasov. It's a noted landmark of Romania on the border between Transylvania and Wallachia. This is often referred to as "Dracula's Castle" although there is no real evidence that Stoker knew of the castle. Today it serves as a museum for tourists. There is an art and furniture collection by Queen Marie and an open air museum park that has traditional Romanian peasant structures. Info and tickets here.
Transfagarasan: The famous route across the Carpathian Mountains between Carta to Bascov has become famous for its winding curves, scenic views, castles, mountain villages, and beautiful lakes. If you're looking for an adventure, you can either drive the Transfagarasan yourself or take a tour.
We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.