Bucharest is the capital and the largest city. It's not beautiful. Communist-era apartment blocks, wide boulevards, and the massive Palace of the Parliament (the second-largest administrative building in the world after the Pentagon). The palace is surreal, over-the-top, and a symbol of Ceaușescu's megalomania. You can tour the inside.

Bucharest also has a growing arts scene, cafés, and nightlife. The Old Town has restaurants, bars, and a more lively vibe. Bucharest is gritty, cheap, and interesting if you give it a chance.

Transylvania is the main reason to visit Romania. Brașov is a charming medieval town with a main square, Gothic church, and the Brașov sign on the hill (like the Hollywood sign). Bran Castle (about 30 minutes from Brașov) is marketed as "Dracula's Castle." It has a loose connection to Vlad the Impaler (the inspiration for Dracula), but it's mostly just a medieval castle. It's touristy but atmospheric.

Sibiu is another beautiful medieval town with colorful buildings, a large square, and the "eyes of Sibiu" (windows in the roofs that look like eyes). Sibiu was a European Capital of Culture and is one of the most charming towns in Romania.

Sighișoara is a UNESCO town with colorful buildings and a clock tower. It's where Vlad the Impaler was born. It's small, quiet, and beautiful.

The Carpathian Mountains have hiking trails, ski resorts, and remote villages. The Transfăgărășan is one of the most scenic mountain roads in Europe (and was featured on Top Gear). It's dramatic, winding, and only open in summer.

The Painted Monasteries of Bucovina in northern Romania have frescoes on the outside walls. They're UNESCO sites and stunning.

Romanian food is hearty. Sarmale (cabbage rolls stuffed with meat and rice). Mămăligă (polenta). Mici (grilled minced meat rolls). Ciorbă (sour soup). Romanian food is filling, cheap, and delicious. A meal costs $4-7.

Romanian people are warm, welcoming, and proud. They're happy to see tourists (Romania doesn't get as many visitors as Western Europe). English is common among younger people, less so in rural areas.

Getting around is straightforward. Trains connect major cities (slow but cheap). Buses connect smaller towns. If you want to explore Transylvania or the mountains, rent a car.

Romania is one of the cheapest countries in Europe. Hostels run $8-15/night. A meal at a restaurant is $5-8. A beer is $1-2.

When to go: Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are mild and beautiful. Summer (June-August) is warm and perfect for hiking. Winter (December-March) is cold, and skiing is possible in the Carpathians.

Romania is castles, mountains, and incredible value. It's one of the most underrated countries in Europe.