Chasing Castles in Romania: A Epic Road Trip From Bucharest to Braşov, Sighișoara and Sinaia

Leaving this hilly area, the snow starts again as we descend through the mountains to the airport north of Bucharest. As we pass by Snagov Monastery, the final resting place of Vlad the Impaler, I think of the journey we’ve made in his footsteps, crisscrossing Transylvania on the road less travelled, learning about this country’s history and natural beauty. I hope to see one last stork, but we’re now entering the modern world, leaving the past behind. Like them, I hope to return — but perhaps next time, without my raincoat.

Note: This was a personal trip with no support from the tourism board or any local destinations.  

How to get to Romania

The largest airport in Romania is Bucharest Henri Coanda International, located in Otopeni (20 km North of Bucharest, 140km away from Brasov). The Hilton Garden Inn at the airport is comfortable and affordable. In Bucharest, I stayed at the Marmorosch Hotel in the old town. 

While train travel is possible within Romania, the trains tend to operate with delays and travel at low speeds, which makes a journey with them quite long. Find train schedules here.

Romania is part of the European Union and the Schengen Zone, but has kept its own currency called the Lei, which is about 4x the US dollar (i.e. 100 Lei = USD$25). Cash isn’t needed, and your Wise card will work here.

Renting a car in Romania

Driving in Romania is the easiest way to get around. It’s hilly, so ask for an all-wheel drive, and you’ll need an International Driver’s License to rent a car from the major car rental companies. In Canada, visit a CAA office with your driver’s license and two passport photos. In the US, visit the AAA. Find a car for your road trip in Romania on Booking.com, RentalCars.com, or Expedia.