As Europe’s Balkan and southeast regions continue to develop as prominent travel destinations, **Romania** stands out with its unique charm and rich history. Despite a slower emergence than neighbors like **Croatia** and **Hungary**, Romania is steadily gaining attention in the international tourism sector.
Although international tourist numbers are rising, with a record of around **13 million visitors in 2024**, fewer than **120,000** of these travelers hailed from North America, according to [Romania’s National Institute of Statistics](https://insse.ro/cms/en). This relative lack of interest may stem from various factors, including limited marketing outreach to North American audiences, the lingering stigma from the era of **Nicolae Ceausescu**, or even the enigmatic allure of **Dracula**.
For travelers seeking a taste of Old World European charm away from the crowded hotspots, Romania is worth reconsidering. The country is home to **11 UNESCO World Heritage Sites**, including Transylvania’s seven medieval villages with fortified churches and the ancient beech forests of the **Carpathian Mountains**.
### Discovering Bucharest
The capital city, **Bucharest**, dazzles visitors with its vibrant nightlife, distinctive cafe culture, and a burgeoning food scene. Travelers can explore **Calea Victoriei**, a significant boulevard filled with boutiques, museums, and art galleries.
**Architecture enthusiasts** will be intrigued by the city’s eclectic mix of styles, from elegant belle époque mansions to stark Soviet-era brutalism. Additionally, wellness seekers can unwind at [Therme Bucharest](https://www.therme.ro), a sprawling wellness center featuring geothermal pools, a sensory sauna complex, and a remarkable indoor botanical garden.
Families can enjoy the Galaxy family zone, which boasts **17 waterslides**, wave pools, and LED cinematic displays. During the summer, the **Sands of Therme** urban beach offers sandy shores, hammocks, and beach volleyball courts.
### Outdoor Adventures in Romania
Beyond the city limits, **Romania’s natural landscapes** offer numerous activities for adventure enthusiasts. The **Carpathian Mountains** are an ideal playground for hiking, cycling, rock climbing, and horseback riding. The pristine **Danube Delta** provides excellent fishing opportunities. There’s also an increasing interest in golfing, with several options available, including at [Bucharest Golf Club](https://www.bucharestgolfclub.org/course).
**Cycling itineraries** through Romania have become more popular, as highlighted by companies like [Butterfield & Robinson](https://www.butterfield.com/places-to-go/europe/romania). Visitors also enjoy guided tours at the local bear sanctuary in Transylvania, while **Bran Castle**, often associated with **Dracula**, remains a favorite attraction for its stunning architecture and picturesque setting.
### Accommodation Options in Romania
Luxurious accommodations can enhance any stay in Romania. Choices include the **Corinthia Bucharest**, a 30-suite hotel that once served as the historic Grand Hotel du Boulevard. For a more serene escape, travelers might consider [Matca](https://matcahotel.com), a spa-centered retreat in the Carpathians, featuring 16 rooms and 10 villas – all part of the esteemed Relais & Chateau collection.
Practical details for travelers include Romania’s membership in the **European Union**, **NATO**, and the **Schengen Area**. However, the local currency remains the **leu**, so visitors should plan accordingly.
In summary, while Romania’s tourism trajectory may be unfolding at a slower pace compared to its neighbors, the country offers a wealth of cultural, culinary, and natural experiences that promise rewarding explorations for those willing to venture off the beaten path.
