Where to stay in Romania: regions and hotels

If you're visiting Romania for the first time, the most logical base is Bucharest, as most flights arrive there and you have easy access to trains and buses for the rest of the country. If you're interested in mountainous Transylvania with its castles and medieval towns, Brașov and Sibiu are the best choices, offering pedestrianised areas, squares and easy access to the Carpathians. Couples seeking a romantic atmosphere in old buildings will find excellent boutique hotels in Sibiu and Brașov, while those who prefer a more modern city with student life and good gastronomy should head to Cluj.

Families with children fare better in cities with spacious areas, such as Brașov, which combines nature, castles, and easy walking distances, or Mamaia, near Constanța, if the trip is in summer with the Black Sea as a destination. For budget travellers, accommodation prices in Romania remain considerably lower than the European average, even in central locations of major cities, so the choice of region depends more on what you want to see than on your budget.

If you plan to combine city and nature on one trip, the classic route is Bucharest, Brașov, Sibiu, with Cluj added if you have more days available. Constanța and Mamaia are mainly worth visiting in summer, as a seaside stop between the Romanian hinterland and the Black Sea.

Practical information about Romania

Romania is a relatively large country, with distances often exceeding two or three hundred kilometres between main destinations. Bucharest is about one hundred and sixty kilometres from Brașov, a journey of around two and a half to three hours by train or car, while from Brașov to Sibiu, it's approximately two and a half hours along a mountain road with beautiful scenery. Cluj is further north, about three hours' drive from Brașov, and has its own international airport serving several European cities with direct flights.

The main entry airport is Henri Coanda in Bucharest, approximately sixteen kilometres north of the city centre, a journey of about thirty to forty minutes by taxi or bus depending on traffic. There is also a train connecting the airport to the main railway station, Gara de Nord, in just over half an hour. Those heading directly to Transylvania can alternatively fly to Cluj or Sibiu, which also have small international airports with connections mainly from Germany, Italy, and Britain. If you're planning a longer excursion, you could also consider Bulgaria.

The best time to visit is spring, from May to June, and autumn, from September to early October, when temperatures are mild and nature in Transylvania is at its best. Summer is hot and suitable mainly for the Black Sea, while winter brings snow to the mountains, making Brașov a popular base for skiing in the nearby resorts of Poiana Brașov.

Within cities, getting around on foot is easy, as historical centres are usually compact and pedestrianised. For inter-city travel, trains are a reliable and economical option, while car rental helps if you want to visit smaller villages and castles off the beaten track, such as Bran Castle or Peleș Castle in Sinaia. Those looking for similar romantic accommodation with a Jacuzzi in Greek destinations can find ideas for future trips closer to Greece.

Bucharest: the gateway to the country

Bucharest is the capital and the natural starting point for any trip to Romania, with a historic centre full of neoclassical buildings, cafes, and bars around the Old Town (Lipscani). It's a good choice for one to two nights before continuing to Transylvania, especially if you want to see the enormous Palace of the Parliament and the squares around Calea Victoriei Avenue.

1. Grand Hotel Continental Bucuresti

Historic hotel next to the Old Town, with classic decor and easy walking access to restaurants and museums.

• Average cost: 75 to 120 € per night
• Ideal for: couples and first-time visitors

2. Capitol Hotel

Located in the centre, near Calea Victoriei, with simple but comfortable rooms and good value for money and location.

• Average cost: 45 to 75 € per night
• Ideal for: budget travellers

3. Hotel Casa Capsa

Historic building in the heart of the city, known for its old cafe and its proximity to the Athenaeum Palace and the National Theatre.

• Average cost: 80 to 130 € per night
• Ideal for: couples seeking central accommodation

4. Hotel Berthelot

Small hotel near Gara de Nord station, convenient for those arriving or departing by train early in the morning.

• Average cost: 40 to 65 € per night
• Ideal for: train travellers and budget accommodation

Brașov: castles and mountain atmosphere

Brașov is one of the most popular bases for Transylvania, thanks to its central Sfatului Square, the Black Church, and easy access to Bran Castle and Poiana Brașov. The historic centre is pedestrianised and easily walkable, making it a good choice for both couples and families.

5. Casa Wagner

Boutique hotel right on Sfatului Square, in an old Saxon building with stone arches and wooden beams.

• Average cost: 60 to 95 € per night
• Ideal for: couples

6. Hotel Aro Palace

Large classic hotel near the centre, with a spa and spacious rooms, a good choice for families.

• Average cost: 65 to 110 € per night
• Ideal for: families

7. Casa Monte Verde

Small, quiet accommodation near the forest at the foot of Tâmpa mountain, with city views and easy walking access to the centre.

• Average cost: 50 to 80 € per night
• Ideal for: couples seeking tranquility

Sibiu: medieval square and culture

Sibiu has one of Transylvania's most beautiful historic centres, with its Large Square, houses with characteristic 'eyes' on their roofs, and the Bridge of Lies. It's a quiet city, ideal for one to two nights, with easy access to Dracula's Castle in nearby Sighișoara.

8. Continental Forum Sibiu

Modern hotel a few minutes from the Large Square, with a pool and spa, a good choice for families.

• Average cost: 65 to 100 € per night
• Ideal for: families

9. Ramada Sibiu Hotel

Located near the historic centre, with comfortable rooms and a restaurant, convenient for business and family trips.

• Average cost: 55 to 90 € per night
• Ideal for: families and business trips

10. Hotel Am Ring

Small hotel right on the Large Square, with views of the historic buildings from the rooms.

• Average cost: 50 to 80 € per night
• Ideal for: couples

Cluj: modern life and student energy

Cluj-Napoca is Transylvania's largest city, with a vibrant student life, good restaurants, and a lively bar scene around Unirii Square. It's less touristy than Brașov, making it an interesting choice for those who want to see a more authentic, modern side of Romania.

11. Radisson Blu Hotel, Cluj

Five-star hotel in the city centre, with a spa and restaurant, a good choice for a comfortable stay.

• Average cost: 90 to 140 € per night
• Ideal for: couples and business trips

12. Hotel Platinia

Located next to a shopping centre, a few minutes' walk from the Old Town, with comfortable and modern rooms.

• Average cost: 55 to 85 € per night
• Ideal for: couples

13. Hotel Belvedere

Located on a hill with panoramic views of Cluj, slightly further from the centre but with a tranquil environment.

• Average cost: 45 to 75 € per night
• Ideal for: budget travellers

Mamaia and Constanța: summer on the Black Sea

Constanța is the largest city on the Black Sea coast, featuring Roman ruins and an old casino by the sea, while neighbouring Mamaia is the country's main seaside resort, with a long sandy beach and a row of beachfront hotels. It's primarily a choice for summer holidays, not for the rest of the year, as many hotels operate seasonally.

14. Bavaria Blu Hotel and Conference Centre

Hotel right on Mamaia beach, with a pool and spacious rooms, a good choice for family summer holidays.

• Average cost: 55 to 95 € per night
• Ideal for: families in summer

If you're also planning a summer holiday to a Greek destination after your trip to Romania, you can also see all-inclusive options in Halkidiki or family-friendly hotels in Crete for price and service comparison.

In Bucharest, it's worth walking along Calea Victoriei, seeing the Athenaeum, and stopping at Cișmigiu Garden, the city's oldest public park. In Brașov, beyond Sfatului Square, a cable car ride up Tâmpa Hill for panoramic views is recommended, while in Sibiu, strolling between the Upper and Lower Towns through narrow passages is one of Transylvania's most enjoyable experiences. Cluj has a vibrant cafe and restaurant scene around Unirii Square, while Constanța hides an interesting archaeological museum with finds from the ancient city of Tomis.

Accommodation prices in Romania generally remain affordable compared to other European destinations, even in five-star hotels in the centre of major cities. This, combined with the relatively short distances between Bucharest, Brașov, and Sibiu, makes the country an attractive option for a ten-day trip that combines city, history, and nature without great expense. If you're travelling in winter, it's worth seeing the Christmas markets in Sibiu and Brașov, among the most atmospheric in Eastern Europe. For those interested in other Balkan destinations, there is a corresponding accommodation guide for Bulgaria, as well as a guide for Lake Como in neighbouring Italy, if you wish to continue your journey in Europe.

Region comparison at a glance

Frequently asked questions

Which city is the best base for a first visit to Romania?

Bucharest, as most international flights arrive there and travel to Transylvania by train or car is easily accessible from there.

How many days are needed for a first visit to Romania?

A realistic itinerary covering Bucharest, Brașov, Sibiu requires at least six to seven days, allowing two to three nights in each city without rushing.

Which region is best suited for families with children?

Brașov combines easy walking distances, nature, and nearby castles, while Mamaia is a good choice if the trip is in summer with the sea as a goal.

How far is Bucharest airport from the city centre?

Approximately sixteen kilometres, a journey of around thirty to forty minutes by taxi or just over half an hour by train to Gara de Nord station.

Do you need a car to travel around Romania?

Not within the cities, as historical centres are easily walkable, but for visiting castles and villages off the main routes, car rental helps significantly.

What is the best time to travel to Romania?

Spring, from May to June, and autumn, from September to early October, with mild temperatures, while summer is better suited for Black Sea destinations.

Which region has the most affordable accommodation options?

Bucharest and Cluj have a wide range of prices with many budget-friendly options near the centre, while Sibiu and Brașov tend to have slightly higher prices due to tourist demand.