If you ask us, what is one of the most amazing parts of an Erasmus experience? We will tell you that it’s travelling, especially in your Erasmus country. That is why ESN ASE-CMP Bucharest prepared for you some ideas of short trips from Bucharest to some amazing and beautiful places in Romania. If you didn't know yet, between the 30th of November and 3 of December, we will have a long weekend, a mini-vacation that you can use to travel around, and we hope that our article will help you decide your next destination.
Take your Erasmus friends and enjoy some beautiful days travelling Romania!
1. Bucharest To Transfăgărășan
Embark on a day trip through the exciting landscapes of Transfăgărășan, Romania's legendary mountain road, located in the Carpathian Mountains. As we climb the serpentine roads, Transfăgărășanul reveals wonderful views, from green valleys to snow-capped peaks in the colder times of the year. The journey on this road will surprise you, and the fresh mountain air will encourage you to stay as long as possible on the mountain top of the road.
There, the jewel in the crown of the route is Bâlea Lake, a glacial lake surrounded by rocky peaks. This gorgeous place invites you to enjoy the beauty of the place and go through the many mountain hikes that start from there. From Transfăgărășan towards Bucharest, we recommend you to have a stop at the Vidraru dam, which will offer you a stunning view of the Vidraru lake and the mountains around it.
Whether you are a thrill seeker attracted by serpentines or a nature enthusiast enchanted by the mountainous area, a day trip along the Transfăgărășan is not to be missed, being a journey into the heart of Romania. So, are you ready to cross this natural wonder? And the even better question, are you ready to meet the famous animal of the mountains, the brown bear? If so, Transfăgărășan is waiting for you.
How to get there?
1. You can either rent a car from Bucharest and you will be there in approximately 3 hours, the distance being 200 km. This is a very fun way of travelling, especially if you rent the car with your Erasmus friends.
2. Take a Train until Curtea de Argeș and rent the car from there, making the cost of renting smaller.
3. Take a Train to Sibiu, visit this beautiful city and after that, take a minibus that goes twice a day to Bâlea Waterfall, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Find out detailed information about the minibus timetable, both for departure and return to Sibiu. The price of a one-way trip is 60 lei, and a return trip is 110 lei. From Bâlea Waterfall you can take the cable car that goes up to Bâlea Lac, offering a beautiful view over Transfăgărășan.
*Don’t forget to use your Romanian student ID for 90% discount for trains.
2. Bucharest To Sibiu
Step into the city of Sibiu, a Transylvanian gem where history dances with you, a beautiful mediaeval city, with its cobbled streets and pastel buildings. Begin your day trip in the heart of Sibiu's Old Town, where the Great Square unfolds like an open-air museum. Admire the facade of the Brukenthal National Museum, Romania's oldest museum housed in a baroque palace. Lose yourself in the vibrant market square, where the Council Tower stands tall, offering panoramic views of the city's red rooftops. Stroll along the Liars' Bridge, a symbol of Sibiu's folklore, and let the mediaeval charm envelop you as you explore the passages and secret corners of the Lower Town. Make a stop at the Council Tower, where history and architecture converge in a perfect blend, revealing Sibiu's rich heritage.
For a taste of Sibiu's cultural tapestry, visit the ASTRA National Museum Complex, an open-air museum showcasing traditional Romanian village life. Here, centuries-old houses and windmills create a picturesque landscape against the backdrop of the surrounding forests. Finish your day with a culinary adventure. Savour traditional Transylvanian dishes in a cosy local restaurant, letting the flavours tell a story of the region's culinary heritage. Sibiu, with its timeless beauty and warm hospitality, invites you to be a part of its story for a day, a journey through history and culture, in the heart of Transylvania. Are you ready to explore this captivating city?
How to get there?
1. Take a train to Sibiu, one trip will be around 9 lei and your trip will be between 5 and 6 hours.
2. Take a bus to Sibiu, one trip will be around 90 lei and you will spend approximately 5 hours and a half in the bus.
3. Piatra Craiului National Park
Discover the magic of Piatra Craiului National Park on a day trip in the heart of Romania's Carpathian Mountains. This beautiful place is all about stunning views and outdoor fun. Start your day with a walk along the park's trails. You'll see big rocky mountains and green meadows. Listen to the birds singing as you explore the thick forests and enjoy the fresh air. To enter the Piatra Craiului National Park you need to buy a ticket, the price is 10 lei.
The Zarnesti Gorge is like a cool, rocky adventure. Walk beside the river, feel the mist, and marvel at the tall cliffs. It's like a natural wonderland! Take a break at Curmatura Hut, a cosy spot with amazing mountain views. Whether you love hiking or just want to enjoy nature, Piatra Craiului National Park has something for everyone. Are you ready for a day of simple, natural beauty?
How to get there?
1. You can go by car, around 200 km/3 hours.
2. Take a train to Brașov (around 3 hours/6 lei) and another one from Brașov to Zărnești (approximately 40 min/free with Romanian student ID).
Make your backpack, book your trains, take your friends, and go and explore the beautiful nature and historic cities of Romania. Maybe discover the beautiful Transfăgărășan, the museums în Sibiu, or maybe the hike paths in Piatra Craiului National Park, no matter your destination, we are going to be here, next to you. Don't hesitate to ask us for more information or help. Our ESN ASE-CMP Bucharest volunteers are here to help you have the most amazing trips around Romania.
Author: Daniela Iancu
Follow us