Your 7-Day Bucharest & Brasov Trip: Palace of the Parliament & Beyond

US, EU, UK, Australian, and Canadian citizens typically enjoy visa-free entry for up to 90 days within a 180-day period (Schengen rules apply after Romania's partial accession). Indian citizens require a visa, which should be obtained in advance from a Romanian embassy or consulate. All travelers should ensure their passport is valid for at least three months beyond their intended departure date.

Bucharest is generally considered a very safe European capital, with violent crime being rare against tourists. However, be vigilant for petty crime like pickpocketing in crowded areas such as the Old Town, public transport, and around major attractions. Also, beware of 'taxi scams' where unmetered taxis outside train stations or popular spots overcharge; use ride-sharing apps like Bolt or Uber for official fares.

In Bucharest, the metro is efficient, while buses and trams cover extensive routes. For convenience, use ride-sharing apps like Bolt or Uber. In Brasov, the city center is highly walkable, and local buses connect to farther attractions like Poiana Brașov. Inter-city travel between Bucharest and Brasov is best by train (CFR Călători), with tickets bookable online.

The official currency of Romania is the Romanian Leu (RON). While card payments are widely accepted in cities like Bucharest and Brasov, it's advisable to carry some cash (RON) for smaller purchases, local markets, street vendors, and when visiting more rural areas or places that may not have card facilities.

Tipping is appreciated in Romania but not always strictly mandatory. In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% for good service is customary, but always check if a service charge has already been included in the bill. For taxis, rounding up the fare or adding a small amount (e.g., 5-10 RON) is common. For hotel staff like bellhops or housekeepers, a small tip of 5-10 RON is appropriate.

Pack layered clothing for variable weather, especially in Transylvania. Comfortable, grip-sole walking shoes are essential for cobblestone streets and hilly terrain. A small anti-theft cross-body bag is recommended for securing valuables in crowded city areas. Also consider a light rain jacket, a scarf or shawl for cooler evenings and church visits, and some Romanian Lei cash for smaller transactions.

Spring (April-May) and Autumn (September-October) offer pleasant temperatures (15-20°C) and fewer crowds, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Summer (June-August) is warm to hot (25-30°C+), perfect for enjoying outdoor terraces but also peak tourist season. Winter (November-March) can be cold with snow, suitable for winter sports near Brasov and experiencing festive markets.

You can purchase a local prepaid SIM card from providers like Orange, Vodafone, or Digi upon arrival at Bucharest Otopeni Airport or from any city store; costs are generally low for generous data plans. WiFi is widely available and often free in hotels, cafes, and restaurants across Bucharest and Brasov. Consider downloading offline maps and translation apps for areas with patchy mobile signal.