Is Romania safe to visit? Short answer, yes, probably safer than most countries I’ve traveled to. For the long answer, keep on reading.
You probably have your concerns when traveling for the first time to any country. But Romania, this country is often imagined like an old western movie: people with guns, looting, high crime and generally unsafe. You won’t believe how exactly the opposite this country really is, until you visit it.
I reluctantly explored this country, but found it overwhelmingly calm and friendly. Of course, not all the people are like so, but the majority I met were surprisingly nice.
Romania was under communism until late 1989. You’ll see remanence of those times, especially in the southern part of the country – which is drastically different from central and north Romania.
Is Romania safe for tourists?
Yes, by now Romania has grown accustomed with tourists and they welcome them. I’ve never encountered or seen any harassment towards any foreign tourist.
Of course, you should watch your pockets and not flash money around – but this is a general travel rule. I’ve seen worse pick pocketers in Italy, Romanians are infants compared to those.
Also, opposed to other touristy countries I’ve visited, they won’t try to add extra things on your restaurant bill – you pay for what you get. But, never say never – keep an eye!
I’d avoid walking at night in less crowded backstreets, especially in Bucharest. Bucharest, although a generally safe city, can be rough in some areas.
Is Romania safe for solo female travelers?
Yes, Romania is safe for solo female travelers. You might get the occasional men whistling, but even that is a rare occurrence now.
If you’re a female and are thinking of traveling to Romania all by yourself, then sure, why not? As long as you’re abiding the rules and not being rude, then you’ll be just fine. Violence and general crime rate is low.
If you’re planning on visiting rural Romania, then brace yourself for some staring. I’m not referring to a mean behavior, but more out of curiosity – locals from the rural areas are not familiar with tourist (the population being old), and it does intrigue them why someone would like to visit their lands.
Is Romania safe for black tourists?
Yes, I’ve seen no sign of obvious racism towards black people or different ethic groups (exception: gypsies!). This is because most major cities are used to students coming from abroad and now even work labor is being massively imported.
So don’t worry if you’re dark skinned, Romanians are beginning to feel comfortable around lots of races now. You are very unlikely to get in trouble because of your race – but you will still get the occasional curious staring, just ignore it!
Is there War going on?
No, there’s not. Only mild arguments between neighbors about dogs or bears, depending on the region.
Romania, at this point, is still a member of NATO, and it has not been involved in any military operations concerning the Russo-Ukrainian war.
If you’re visiting the Danube Delta, then you might get the occasional drone safety messages. Also drones have been sighted in the Black Sea, crashed – take caution. But no, no attacks on civilians or infrastructure.
What to be careful of in Romania?
- taxi drivers: they will try to severely overcharge you, if you’re a foreign tourist. Avoid taking a taxi from the streets. Use Uber or Bolt;
- scams: don’t buy into any great deals, because they are not! Exchange money only in licensed exchanges and avoid buying things from beggars;
- North train station (gara de Nord): the central train station in Bucharest. Lots of scammers, pick pocketers, petty thieves and beggars. Stay vigilant!
- bad neighborhoods in big cities. You’d rater avoid that in any country, foreigner or not.
Before going to Romania, you might want to read through the travel alerts on the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Also, if you ever need it, 112 is the emergency line, for, well, you know, emergencies…
From my own experience, I’ve never felt unsafe in Romania. People are helpful and generally friendly. They speak English in touristy cities, but finding someone that speaks English in the rural areas is challenging. Nevertheless, you’ll be just fine traveling to Romania.
Enjoy your visit and if you have any questions, let me know!
