Romania is an underrated European gem filled with medieval towns and towering mountains.
As an increasingly popular destination, many women who travel alone may wonder, is Romania safe for female travelers exploring alone?
With proper precautions, Romania is generally safe and solo female travelers have amazing cultural experiences. But you should be alert when visiting crowded tourist sites and busy areas of Bucharest. Petty crimes like pickpocketing do occur, though violent crime is rare.
Safety Overview of Romania for Solo Females
Romania is one of the safest countries in Eastern Europe for solo female travelers. Violent crime is uncommon, especially against tourists. Most concerning is petty theft like pickpocketing and bag snatching in crowded areas.
Solo female travelers are not likely to experience harassment from Romanian men. Cities like Bucharest, Brasov, and Cluj-Napoca have liberal attitudes and feel very safe walking alone, even at night.
However, use caution around alcohol-fueled nightlife areas.
Areas outside major cities and tourist spots tend to be more conservative. Dress modestly and avoid drawing excess attention when visiting small villages, churches, and rural zones.
As a general rule, utilize the same common sense safety precautions for Romania that you would elsewhere in Europe. Stay vigilant for petty theft in crowded areas.
Research less touristy areas before visiting. Use authorized taxis and exchanges. With smart solo travel habits, Romania offers an amazing cultural experience.
Things You Know Before Visiting Romania
Capital City: Bucharest
Currency: Euro
Local Taxi app: Uber, Bolt, Star Taxi, Free Now
Public Transportation: Good and have fair prices
Language: Romanian
World Heritage Sites: There are 9 heritage site in Romania according to UNSECO
Safest Places to Visit in Romania as a Solo Woman
Bucharest
Romania’s capital and largest city, Bucharest is mainly safe for female travelers. The historic Old Town district is packed with lively restaurants, cafes, and nightclubs.
Have your guard up for pickpockets around crowded tourist sites and be wary of taxi scams. Only use official marked taxis or reputable ride shares.
The city has a moderate level of catcalling and verbal harassment, more common at nightlife spots. Avoid walking alone late at night.
Many hotels have secure taxi services available. Overall, Bucharest feels safe to explore solo during the day.
Brasov
Nestled in the mountains of Transylvania, Brasov is an idyllic medieval town that’s very safe for solo female travelers. The pedestrian-only historical center has charming Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture.
Active during the day, Brasov quiets down at night with few reports of crime. Take the usual precautions as pickpocketing can occur at busy sites. Don’t walk alone in remote areas at night.
Sibiu
Called the cultural capital of Romania, Sibiu delights visitors with its cobblestone streets, pastel-hued buildings, and lively arts scene. The compact historical center filled with museums, churches, and galleries feels very walkable and safe even at night.
Petty theft can happen at the train station so secure valuables in cross body bags. Overall Sibiu is a top choice for solo female travelers.
Cluj-Napoca
Cluj-Napoca is Transylvania’s most vibrant city, buzzing with students, cafes, live music, and nightlife. Urban and liberal, Cluj feels very safe for solo female travelers.
Petty crime like pickpocketing occasionally occurs around the central Piata Unirii square, so keep valuables secure. At night, stick to licensed taxis like Uber and don’t walk alone in unlit areas.
Top Things for Solo Females to Do in Romania
Explore Bucharest’s Historic Old Town
Take an afternoon stroll around Bucharest’s Lipscani district, home to a lively pedestrian-only historic quarter with 17th century architecture, restaurants, cafes, art galleries, and shops.
Visit landmarks like the Romanian Athenaeum concert hall and Hanul lui Manuc inn. Be vigilant for pickpockets in crowded areas.
Hike Scenic Trails
Romania boasts awesome hiking opportunities, especially in the Carpathian Mountains. For solo females, go with guided group tours or well-populated trails.
Top picks are Seven Ladders Canyon and Piatra Craiului National Park. Avoid remote trails and don’t hike alone.
Tour Bran Castle and Peles Castle
Soak up Romania’s medieval history by touring the imposing Bran Castle in Brasov, alleged inspiration for Dracula’s castle.
The stunning Peles Castle in Sinaia hosted Romanian royalty. Opt for small group castle tours or private guides.
Wander Pedestrian-Friendly Cities
Explore exquisite medieval towns like Sibiu, Brasov, and Sighisoara on foot during the day. Wandering the pedestrian-only historic centers and narrow cobbled lanes is very safe. But be watchful for pickpockets in crowded squares. Don’t walk alone at night.
Take Cooking Classes
Take a cooking class to learn how to make authentic Romanian dishes like sarmale, papanasi, and ciorba. Look for small group classes or private lessons. It’s a fun way to get to know Romanian culture.
Go to Summer Festivals
Romania has awesome festivals all summer long. Savor the party vibe at major festivals like Untold Festival in Cluj-Napoca or Electric Castle Festival near Cluj and Brasov, but always watch your drinks and stay with friends.
Visit Painted Monasteries
Discover the UNESCO listed painted monasteries in Bukovina. Take organized day trips or group tours to see masterpieces like Voronet Monastery, Humor Monastery, and Moldovita Monastery. Respect dress codes when visiting religious sites.
Relax at Spas
Pamper yourself at Romania’s many mineral spa resorts like Baile Herculane, Geoagiu Bai, and Sovata. Look for spa hotels with good security and avoid isolated eco spas. For added safety, opt for private spa cabins.
Is Romania Safe for Solo Female Travel?
Absolutely! Romania is an amazing destination for solo female travelers looking to discover wondrous medieval cities, spectacular mountain scenery, and one-of-a-kind castles and monasteries. While petty crimes do happen, violent crime is extremely rare.
Solo female travelers that use common sense precautions should feel safe exploring Romania’s top highlights. Be extra vigilant against petty theft in crowded tourist areas.
Research safety before heading off the beaten path. Avoid walking alone at night or hiking solo.
By taking basic safety measures and following the tips outlined, Romania offers solo women an unforgettable cultural and historical experience.
