Despite being overlooked and even reviled by Westerners for many decades, Romania is fast becoming one of Eastern Europe’s most popular tourist destinations. Romania enchants visitors with its epic mountain landscapes, stunning painted monasteries and the ancient Saxon towns of Transylvania. However, ask anyone what first comes to mind when they think of Romania, they’ll probably say ‘Dracula’. Go ahead and visit Bran Castle, the setting that may have inspired Bram Stoker’s vampire lore, but there’s much more to Romania than just Vlad the Impaler. Here are 11 things to check out in this underrated country.
1. Ski in Poiana Brasov
Poiana Brasov, located near the town of Brasov, is Romania’s premier ski resort. Ideal for beginners in particular, the skiing season typically runs from December until March, and lessons are very affordable compared to most skiing venues elsewhere in Europe. The village is located about 3,300 feet above sea level, and it is easy to get a bus there from Brasov, which is about 8 miles away.
