Area Guide To Romania

When contemplating a property purchase in Romania, general knowledge of the country is essential prior to making the final decision to buy. Below you will gain a general overview of Romania to assist you in your research.

In addition to low property prices, Romania has much to offer homebuyers - think Romania, think Bram Stoker’s Count Dracula and think medieval castles in mystic Transylvanian countryside. And beyond the nation’s stunning rural appeal, the elegance of Bucharest and its Old Town continues to draw increasing numbers of visitors and investors alike.

As the largest country in southeastern Europe, covering an extensive area of 237,499 square kilometers (91,699 square miles), Romania stretches halfway across the Balkan Peninsula and occupies the lower basin of the Danube River system as well as the hilly eastern regions of the middle Danube basin. It surrounds the Carpathian Mountains, which form the natural barrier between the two Danube basins. Romania borders with Bulgaria to the south; Serbia to the south west; Hungary to the west; and the Ukraine and Moldova to the north and north east, giving rise to a diverse and interesting cultural mix.

Romania's geographic location means it enjoys a continental climate. The nation experiences a long and at times severe winter from December to March, a hot summer from April to July, and a prolonged autumn from August to November. In Bucharest, the minimum temperature in January averages -7oC (20oF), while maximum temperatures in July average 29oC (85oF).

Politically, Romania has come a long way in a relatively short time. Nearly two decades ago, the sinister communist dictator, Ceausescu, and his 50 year reign was ended with his execution in 1989 for his injustices and atrocities committed against his own people. Now a fervently democratic state, Romania actively seeks to strengthen relations with the West, encouraging other former Soviet nations to integrate both into the EU and NATO. Romania was the first country to enroll in the NATO Partnership for Peace Programme and hosted President Bush’s NATO summit in April 2008.

Information When Traveling to Romania

Visas

For stays of up to three months, EU and US visitors are not required to have a visa to enter Romania, although a valid passport is always necessary. For periods of longer than 3 months, a registration certificate must be issued by the Romanian Authority for Aliens.

Although we aim to keep the information provided as up to date as possible we advise you to check the consular department of your local Romanian Embassy, Consulate or the Romanian representative for any changes to visa or travel requirements.

Vaccinations

No vaccinations or health certificates are formally required upon entering Romania. Recommended vaccinations are normally for rural travel and include: updated tetanus, hepatitis A and B, typhoid, rabies and diphtheria.

A health insurance policy is however strongly advised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, particularly if you are not from a fellow EU member state.