When discussing with friends where to go for the weekend, the suggestion came up - Romania. Everyone looked at each other in surprise, but each of us had a spark in our eyes because Romania is an unexplored gem of Europe for tourists, dotted with pristine forests, mountain peaks, castles, mystical places, landmarks, culture, cuisine, and people. Almost a quarter of Romania's historical sites claim some connection to the famous Vlad Țepeș (also known as Count Dracula). You could even say that the "father" of all vampires has become a tourist "trading" point in history...
Before the trip, I stocked up on film - I chose Lomography Color 100 because I planned to shoot sunny cities and wanted to experiment. Choosing the camera and film was not easy, and in the end, not many shots turned out well. Probably due to incorrect film winding, but still, I got a sea of impressions from the process, and the trip was a success! So - get well acquainted with your camera before the trip :)
Dracula's Castle
Going to Romania and not visiting Dracula's Castle is like not seeing the Eiffel Tower. It is probably the most charming castle I have seen. The history of Bran Castle begins at the end of the 14th century. At that time, local residents built it with their own efforts and funds, and in return, the state exempted them from paying taxes to the treasury for several centuries ahead.
The historical figure of Vlad Țepeș became the prototype for Count Dracula. In reality, such a person never existed. From the castle windows, there is a beautiful view of the city. Entrance to the castle is 35 lei. Photos are included in the ticket price.
Brașov
The city of Brașov is one of the main cities of Transylvania and the seventh most populous city in Romania. It is located in the center of the country. The historic part of the city is well preserved, and tourists have the opportunity to take an interesting walking tour visiting the museum of the first Romanian school and the Orthodox Church of Saint Nicholas, the Weavers' Bastion, the Black Church, the Fortress Fort, Saint Catherine's Gate, Thread Street, the White and Black Towers, Mount Tâmpa, and other landmarks.
Brașov is a must-visit for both newcomers taking their first steps in travel and "lone warriors," and it’s not just because of the infamous Dracula’s castle. It’s an interesting, beautiful, European, clean city with affordable prices that starts to impress you about fifty kilometers after crossing the border on a perfect road.
Many roads, especially in Transylvania with wide shoulders, are mostly used by those who are not in a hurry, yielding to faster cars. In cities, which you encounter often on the road, the far right lane is almost always free; this lane is used for parking and is generally kept clear so drivers don’t have to wait for others to yield to pass parked cars. Romanian driving culture is almost perfect; rudeness on the roads is rather an exception or a response to outright hooliganism.
In Brașov, there are many viewpoints, both equipped and simply convenient. It’s best to exchange currency at specialized exchange offices, as they offer much better rates than numerous banks. At local markets and shops, bargaining is a must. Locals are very hospitable and friendly, so you can always ask them for help. You definitely have to try mamaliga with tochitura (a signature Romanian dish), ciorbă (soup), sarmale (cabbage rolls) with red wine. Traditional "mici" can be bought at
Next - Bucharest
Bucharest is first mentioned in chronicles of the 15th century as Dracula’s residence. Since 1659, Bucharest has been the bustling capital first of the principality of Wallachia and then of all Romania.
We arrived in the city on a Sunday. We left the car in a parking lot for 10 lei and went on foot. We walked somewhat aimlessly. There aren’t many beautiful streets. I even felt that the central park smelled bad, not to mention the streets where smells from restaurants, sewers, and homeless people sleeping are mixed... It even became uncomfortable. The park itself is okay, with individual shops, ice cream stands, and a fountain... but still, it felt a bit gloomy.
They say Bucharest is called the "Paris of the Balkans." Well... maybe in architecture. Otherwise - no way, sorry:
Of course, we had to see the Parliament building. Built by order of Ceaușescu. 700 architects and 20,000 workers worked on its construction. It has 12 floors, 1,100 rooms, a huge lobby, and 4 underground levels, including a nuclear bunker. The crystal chandelier in the Sala Drepturilor Omului weighs 2.5 tons; some chandeliers have up to 7,000 lamps. The construction used exclusively Romanian materials. Mosaics, oak panels, marble, gold leaf, stained glass, crystal chandeliers, and rich carpets create a luxurious interior.
My impression of the capital is mixed. It’s messy, dirty, and not fresh.
But as soon as you get to Brașov and its surroundings, everything changes. The air is easy to breathe, fresh, beautiful, tasty, affordable, and interesting. You are surrounded by forests, mountains, and legends.
Romania is a must-see while the local currency and prices remain favorable. Trying Romanian cuisine is a must! Travel, discover countries, share, and take photos!