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Everything you need to know for visiting Romania in October
Planning on visiting Romania in October? If you need a little help crafting your itinerary you are in luck! I spent two weeks exploring the many magical villages in Romania in the month of October!
October is the ideal month to visit Romania whether you are visiting Romania solo or with friends. This post will help you plan your very own spooky itinerary to the many mysterious and mystical places in Romania!
Read on for recommendations for things such as picturesque hikes through the Carpathian Mountains, day trips to the magnificent castles of Transylvania, information on the best boutique hotel stays, and what you can expect during all the seasons.
Best Things To Do in Romania When Visiting in October
See the Spectacular Views On a Scenic hike in Transylvania:
I witnessed the most beautiful foliage and fall colors in Romania in October! It is one of the reasons I think October is the best time to travel to Romania.
You don’t want to miss the breathtaking landscapes and stunning views of the Carpathian Mountains in Transylvania.
One of the best things to do in October is to take advantage of the mild temperatures and go for a hike.
Plan a day on your own or you can join a guided tour like this one through some of Romania’s most scenic hiking trails, such as the trail from Fagaras Mountains Trekking Tour.
What you need to bring on your hike in October in Romania
🥾 Good hiking shoes. It kinda goes without saying you want to have good shoes when you are hiking in Romania.
🧥 Comfortable clothes and layers. Prepare for the changing temperatures throughout your day. If you dress in layers you can easily get cooler if the sun gets warm in October.
🍿 Water bottle and snacks. It is a good idea to have something to eat and drink on your hike.
☀️ Check the weather forecasts and bring your sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) if the weather conditions are sunny or cloudy.
📸 A camera to capture all the fall colors and beautiful scenery!
Visit Dracula’s Castle
I love all things mysterious and spooky! My main motivation to visit Romania in October was to visit the castles! The castles in Transylvania have been standing since the 15th century, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
For a truly captivating experience, visit Bran Castle, AKA Draucla’s Castle. This castle is steeped in mysterious stories and folklore. The famous Bran castle was also the set of Bran Strokers Dracula. A film that to this day gives me nightmares!
I visited these castles via a day tour from Bravso for a number of reasons. The main reason I booked a tour was I knew Dracula’s castle was a popular tourist destination and I didn’t want to deal with waiting in long lines. I highly recommend the affordable half-day tour I joined.
If tours aren’t your thing, there are other ways to reach Bran Castle.
So if you are into beautiful castles and folk traditions, visit Dracula’s castle in October!
Tourist Attractions Pro Tip: If you are visiting in October, visit at the beginning of the month.
Explore the Captivating Castles of Transylvania
Transylvania is the region of Romania I spent most of my time, and I was lucky enough to visit a few of the most exceptional castles.
As I mentioned above, Bran Castle (Dracula’s castle) is certainly one of the most iconic ones, but there are plenty of other amazing castles in Transylvania.
Some of the must-see castles in Transylvania include Corvin Castle, Sighisoara Citadel, Rasnov Fortress, and Peles Castle.
Corvin Castle
Corvin Castle is considered one of the most impressive Gothic Renaissance monuments in Romania with its tall towers and dark dungeons.
The castle dates back to the 14th century and it’s been the filming location for films such as The Brothers Grimm and Cold Mountain.
How to get to Corvin Castle
There are a few ways to reach Corvin Castle:
🚗 By car: Most people rent a car and drive from Bucharest, the drive takes around 4 hours.
🚃 By train: If you don’t have or don’t want to rent a car there is a train from Bucharest which reaches Hunedoara. The journey is long, around 9 hours.
🚌 By bus: There is also a bus from Bucharest that takes about 9 hours and costs around 20 euros one way.
👭🏻 Small Group Tour: Leave all the details up to the tour company and just show up! Day Tour Details
Hours of Operation of Corvin Castle in October
The castle is open from 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm Mondays & 9:00 am to 8:00 pm Tuesdays through Sundays in October.
Sighisoara Citadel
I really loved visiting Sighisorara in October! This village is full of history and mystery!
Sighisoara Citadel is a 12th-century citadel, which was built to protect the medieval city of Sighioara from invasion.
It’s also where you can find Vlad Ţepeş’s birthplace – a 15th-century Romanian prince whose legend would serve as inspiration for the character of Dracula.
Sighisoara was one of the spookiest places I have ever visited. I highly recommend it!
How to get to Sighisoara Citadel
Located in Transylvania, this 700-year-old citadel is a must-see for any tourist. Getting to the citadel is easy, but can take a little while to reach.
🚌 By Private Transfer: You can take a Private transfer from Bucharest that will take around 4 and a half hours.
🚃 By Train: If you are coming from Brasov, there is a train that will take you there in around 3 hours.
Once you arrive at the Sighisoara train station, it’s just a short walk to the citadel.
🚗 By Car: If you are flying into Bucharest, then rent a car from anywhere in the city and drive to the Citadel in 4 hours and 30 minutes.
Hours of operation of Sighisoara Citadel in October
The Sighisoara Citadel is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday through Sunday. On weekends, the citadel is usually quite crowded so plan accordingly.
Rasnov Fortress
Rasnov Fortress is an impressive medieval citadel perched atop a hill with stunning views over the surrounding landscape. The fortress dates back to the 13th century and it’s been one of the most important fortresses in Transylvania.
When I visited Rasnov Fortress it was a little drizzly, but that is what I was expecting in October.
How to get to Rasnov Fortress
🚗 By Car: You can reach the fortress by car, as it’s located only about 30 minutes from Brașov.
🚌 By Bus: Alternatively, you can take a bus from the nearby city Brasov that will directly take you there in about 20 minutes.
Hours of operation of Rasnov Fortress in October
The fortress is typically open from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm in October. The tickets are around 5 lei (around 1 euro). You can also take a guided tour of the fortress for 30 lei (around 6 euros).
UPDATE 2023: Rasnov Fortress is under repair and is closed. Check the website for updates.
Peles Castle
Aside from Bran Castle, Peles Castle is another one of the most visited Romanian Destinations.
Peles is located near Sinaia, a small town in the Romanian Carpathians Mountains. The castle was built between 1873 and 1914 as the summer residence of Romania’s royal family.
It’s one of the most beautiful castles in Romania with its distinctive Renaissance-style architecture and stunning grounds.
One of the best things you can do to visit this castle is to join a small group tour. I was able to join this tour when staying in Brasov. It was the most efficient and affordable way for me to see this castle.
How to get to Peles Castle
Peles Castle is located in the town of Sinaia, about 2 hours away from Brasov.
🚃 By Train: You can take a direct train from Brasov that will get you there in around 1.5 hours. Note there is a 23 minute walk involved if you choose this option.
🚗 By Car: Alternatively, you can also reach the castle by car – it’s only a 1-hour drive from Brasov.
👭🏻 Small Group Tour: Here is my recommendation for a group tour.
Hours of Operation at Peles Castle in October
May 15th 2023 to September 30th 2023:
Closed Monday
Tuesday 9:15 to 17:00
Wednesday 10:00 – 17:00
Thursday to Sunday 9:15 to 17:00
October 1 2023 to April 14th, 2024:
Closed Monday
Closed Tuesday
Wednesday 10:00 – 17:00
Thursday to Sunday 9:15 to 17:00
For pricing check the official website.
Enjoy a stay at one of Romania’s boutique hotels:
No matter when you visit Romania staying in a boutique hotel is more affordable in Romanian destinations than in Western Europe. When you stay in Romania in October you will get better prices than if you were to visit in July or August.
Prices vary depending on the season and location in Romania. I thought I would give you a list of the best boutique hotels in all the best Romanian destinations.
From the classic architecture in Bucharest’s Old Town to the cozy cabins nestled in the Carpathian Mountains, you’ll find something that suits your taste and budget.
Here are a few of my favorite boutique hotels in Romania:
Bran
Brasov
Bucharest
Sighisoara
Explore Bucharest’s Historic Old Town:
The vibrant city of Bucharest is filled with historical landmarks, museums, and cathedrals. Walk around the Old Town in October and admire the colorful architecture and visit some of the city’s most famous monuments, such as the Palace of Parliament or the Romanian Athenaeum.
The food scene in Bucharest was surprisingly great! I had some of the best vegan meals here. Also, it was very affordable!
I really suggest a walking tour like this one see all the hidden gems Bucharest has to offer!
What is it like to Visit the Black Sea Coast in October?
The Black Sea Coast is one of the most visited of the Romanian destinations and it’s a great place to visit during the milder months.
In October, temperatures may warm enough to enjoy sunny days on the beach or take a stroll along the promenade.
Taste some of the freshest seafood while admiring the stunning views of Romanian coasts. Spend some time in the lively city of Constanta and explore its ancient ruins, museums, and beaches.
A fantastic boutique hotel is Belle Epoque Boutique.
Sample local delicacies:
Romania is known for its delicious traditional dishes, such as mamaliga and sarmale. Visit a local restaurant to sample some of the country’s signature flavors and get a true taste of Romanian cuisine.
Visit all the Oldest Fortified Churches
When visiting Romania in October, one of the top things to do is explore the country’s oldest fortified churches of Transylvania. Many of these churches date back to the 13th and 14th centuries and are located throughout Transylvania and beyond.
The most famous and my personal favorite, is Viscri (also known as Weisskirch). It is one of the oldest Saxon villages in Transylvania.
The Viscri fortified church is one of the many UNESCO World Heritage sites and gives visitors a glimpse into Romania’s rich religious history.
Make sure to spend some time exploring the area and learning about its unique architecture.
Other must-visit churches include Biertan, Prejmer, and Calnic.
Of course, when visiting these churches, please be respectful of the local customs and traditions. All in all, exploring Romania’s fortified churches is a great way to get an up-close look at the country’s past.
More Interesting Things To Do in Romania
It is also worth noting that October is a fantastic time for outdoor activities thanks to its mild temperatures. Consider visiting the Danube Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to an array of wildlife.
This great 2-day tour will give you the best overview of the Danube Delta. Stop at the towns of Tulcea and the Old Roman Terriority of Constanta.
Check out the Harvest Festivals
If you’re visiting Romania in October, one of the best things to do is take part in the country’s many harvest festivals. Many villages and towns hold these celebrations to honor the bounty of the season.
The traditional countryside Romanian experience consists of parades, concerts, and markets full of local wares. There will be plenty of food, including traditional food of Romanian dishes, as well as plenty of wine.
The atmosphere at these harvest festivals is one of a kind! It’s a chance to meet locals and learn about Romanian culture firsthand.
Ziua Recoltei (Harvest Festivals)
The Maramureş region located in the Northeastern Carpathians is where you find the most harvest festivals. The village of Remeţi holds the traditional festival. For more information on festival dates check the Romanian Tourism Board.
Find Hotels
Small Towns in Romania to Visit in October
If you want to get a more authentic experience in Romania, I highly recommend you choose a small village for at least a few nights of your trip.
Where is the best place? I will let you choose from the list below.
Central Romania
Visiting Romania in October is an ideal time to explore the beautiful small towns of Central Romania. Here are some of the most popular ones:
1. Sighisoara– also known as one of the most beautiful medieval citadels in Europe, this charming little town is filled with a fascinating history and old architecture from its days as a Saxon fortress.
2. Sibiu – the 2007 European Cultural Capital City is home to some of Europe’s most stunning Baroque architecture, with narrow cobblestone streets and quaint courtyards. Sibiu is worth visiting for at least 3 days.
3. Brasov – another impressive old town, this picturesque city has an amazing mix of Gothic and Baroque architecture. Brasov is a great place to base yourself if you are going to explore Romania.
You will find plenty of interesting attractions such as Council Square, Black Church, and the old town. I felt an eerieness similar to when I went on a witch trial tour in Salem, MA.
4. Cluj-Napoca – this vibrant city has a great nightlife and plenty of cultural attractions to explore including its many art galleries and museums.
Plus, it’s home to Transylvania University so there’s always something new and exciting to discover.
5. Sinaia – situated in the Carpathian Mountains, this mountain resort town is perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing. This is also where you will find Peles Castle.
You can also visit one of Romania’s most important monasteries – Peles Castle – here.
Northern Romania
1 Suceava – known as the former capital of Moldavia, this city is home to some of the largest and oldest painted monasteries in Romania such as Voronet Monastery and Putna Monastery. It is a beautiful place in Romania to visit in October.
2. Iasi – this student city is a great place to learn more about Romanian culture and history, with plenty of museums and churches to explore.
4. Maramures – set against stunning landscapes, this region is home to some of the best wooden churches in Europe, such as Barsana Monastery and Sapanta Peri Monastery. These are some of the most rural areas to explore in Romania.
5. Oradea – the Hungarian-influenced city of Oradea is home to some fantastic landmarks, such as the impressive Black Eagle Palace and a series of Baroque churches.
7. Timisoara – this vibrant city is full of interesting cultural attractions and plenty of restaurants, pubs, and cafes to enjoy.
Is October the Best Month to Visit Romania?
With its mild temperatures and plentiful festivals, October is absolutely one of the best months to visit Romania.
From its beautiful small towns to its stunning mountain resorts, Romania offers something for everyone during this time of year.
What really made Romania in October special for me was the variety of cultural events from the major cities to the Romanian countryside.
Weather To Expect When Visiting Romania in October
The average temperature in Romania in October is around 8 degrees Celsius. Rainfall is common but the country generally has mild, sunny days. I experienced light rain for a few days on my two-week trip.
Romania, part of Eastern Europe, has distinct seasons. I recommend you consider the large temperature differences between summer and winter when deciding to book your trip.
In October you have around 11 hours of daylight. Some of my days were full of straight sun and others in a cloud cover. But overall, I found the average daily temperature pleasant.
FAQs for Visiting Romania in October
The best time to visit Romania is typically from April until October. This is the peak season for tourism and you can expect pleasant temperatures, sunny days, and bustling cities.
The coldest month in Romania is a tie between January when the temperatures are averaging 20 to 30 degrees. The maximum temperature in the region is typical. 30 degrees.
You can definitely have a great time visiting Romania in the cold winters, you just have to plan ahead.
The hours of sunshine are limited, but you can take advantage of all the coziness found in Romania in Winter.
If winter sports are of interest, you can take advantage of the many things to do.
The hottest month in Romania is August, also it is the high season which has some pluses and minuses. The good news is regardless of it being high season, Romania is still very affordable.
June is the wettest month in Romania, so that is certainly something you want to consider when planning your trip.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Romania in October
Romania in October is really the best month to visit. With fewer crowds, more comfortable weather, and better prices for accommodations, Romania is an ideal destination for October.
