Romania travel: Destinations for a winter break

From well-known winter resorts to quieter sites, cities or villages, we have put together below a list of suggestions for winter breaks for this holiday season.

Măgura

Located in a more remote part of Moeciu, this is a place to take in the simple, traditional, rural life. It is also the place to go to avoid noisy tourist crowds and go about exploring the beautiful nature sites in the area. You can walk from Magura to Pestera village and get a sense of what countryside life on top of the mountain means. Alternatively, there are hiking routes that take visitors to Cabana Curmatura, La Table, or Prapastiile Zarnestiului. Some of the villages nearby that are also worth a visit include Pestera, Sirnea, Dambovicioara, and Fundata. More about Măgura here.

Sinaia

This is an oldie but goldie winter destination and for good reason. The site of the Peleș Castle wrapped up in a snow blanket is always spectacular, and the city’s beautiful architecture and central park make up the perfect setting for a nice stroll. When done with visiting or revisiting the castle, the house of George Enescu or the Sinaia Monastery, you can stop in one of the cozy cafes nearby the park and take in more of the views.

Sibiu

A well-preserved Old Town, interesting museums and a Christmas Market that has inspired many similar initiatives across the country are part of the offering of Sibiu, the central Romania city that has been part this year of the European Region of Gastronomy. If you have exhausted the urban offer of exhibition, markets, and sightseeing, you can also head to nearby Păltiniș, a beautiful mountain resort some 30 km away from the city.

Brașov

The city at the foothills of the Tâmpa Mountain is as attractive in winter as it is summer. Exploring its old fortifications, many museums or climbing up to see the city from above from the Tâmpa promenade will ensure an entertaining experience, while the active types can head to Poiana Brașov, a well-known winter sports resort. While in town, do not miss the activities in Sfatului Square, either the Christmas Market, a concert at the Black Church or other events nearby. More suggestions on how to see Brașov from above here.

Putna - Pojorâta

In northeastern Romania’s Suceava county, the commune of Putna is known for the beautiful monastery it hosts, one of the most important cultural and religious centers of medieval Moldavia. To spend more time in the area and explore the impressive landscapes and local traditions of Bucovina, visitors can try a stay at Biovale Putna, in Pojorâta, also in Suceava county. The area of Pojorâta hosts many nature reserves and spectacular gorges of the Rarău Mountain. It is also home to secular forests, such as Giumalău, which hosts spruce trees that are over 100 years old, or Slătioara.