Romania Travel Information Guide: Politics · Safety · Health · Travel Information Summary
Romania is a country in Southern Central Europe, bordering Eastern Europe and the Balkan Peninsula. Sharing borders with Ukraine, Moldova, Bulgaria, Serbia, and Hungary, it embraces diverse cultures. Following the collapse of its communist government during the “Ten-Day Revolution” of 1989, Romania experienced frequent political changes. However, it now offers travellers a relatively stable environment. Nevertheless, opportunistic crime and electronic fraud have been reported in Bucharest and other urban areas, necessitating basic caution. Given its stunning natural landscapes, it is advisable to check road conditions in rural and mountainous regions, as well as environmental risks like wildfires and floods, before travelling.
1. Country Overview
Romania, a member of both the EU and NATO, is increasingly gaining recognition as a travel destination within Europe. The country presents a stark contrast between its cities and countryside; while the capital, Bucharest, is a vibrant modern city, roads and infrastructure in outlying areas or mountainous regions can be poor. Most visits by travellers proceed without incident, but it is advisable to avoid flaunting wealth or displaying valuables. Additionally, recent reports of electronic scams and taxi overcharging necessitate general caution.
2. Key Risk Factors
Political Risk
Romania operates a multi-party democratic system with regular elections and government changes. However, recurring issues in recent years, such as corruption and no-confidence votes between parties, have been cited as factors contributing to political instability. While the political crisis is not severe, the possibility of corruption, no-confidence votes, and policy changes should be kept in mind.
Terrorism
There are currently few reports of large terrorist organisations operating in Romania, and the terrorist threat is assessed as relatively low. Although the terrorism risk is low, it is difficult to be completely complacent. Be mindful of neighbouring countries and related issues.
Crime
Opportunistic crimes such as pickpocketing, bag/wallet theft, and ATM skimming are frequently reported in major cities like Bucharest. Areas around public transport, buses, stations, and currency exchange offices are particularly risky. Avoid displaying valuables + keep ID and cards secure are the most crucial points for travel safety.
Civil unrest
Peaceful protests occur intermittently but generally do not pose a direct threat to travellers. However, large gatherings or demonstrations can cause transport and service disruptions, so it is advisable to avoid their vicinity. Pay attention to the impact on transport and movement rather than the protests themselves.
3. Medical and Health Information
Adequate medical services are available in urban areas, but rural and mountainous regions face issues with limited hospital access and scarce medical resources.
While reports of mosquito-borne diseases and animal-transmitted infections are relatively rare, travel insurance covering medical evacuation costs is recommended when visiting mountainous or remote areas.
4. Travel-Related Culture and Regulations
Romania is a country rich in cultural and historical assets. While exploring historical sites, nature, and villages is all appealing, remember the following:
- Driving on the roads can be more hazardous than in Western Europe, so avoid night driving and check road information.
- When using taxis, verify whether the meter is in use and whether prices are negotiable.
5. Emergency Contacts
- Police: 112
- Ambulance: 112
- Fire: 112
📌 Checklist ✅
✅ In major cities (Bucharest, etc.), be vigilant against pickpocketing and electronic scams; keep valuables out of sight
✅ When visiting mountainous or rural areas, travel insurance covering medical evacuation costs is recommended
✅ When using taxis, negotiate fares or check the meter
✅ Avoid night driving and check road and weather conditions beforehand
✅ Avoid or bypass areas with large-scale protests or gatherings
✅ When using cards or ATMs, check for skimming devices
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