
Epic Romania
Pre-Departure Guide
Hey there Indy fam!
Get packing—it’s almost time to kick off your Romania adventure! 🇷🇴
By now, you should have received your email confrimation. This contains all the essential info you’ll need for the trip, so make sure to bookmark it for easy access while you’re on the move.
Please show a copy to your Indy Escapes rep at check-in—no need to print, an electronic version is perfectly fine.
On this page, you’ll find everything you need to prepare for your journey, including:
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Getting to Bucharest
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Where to find us on Day 1
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Tour start and finish times
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Recommended accommodation before/after your trip
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Entry requirements for Romania
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Budgeting tips
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Currency info
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What to pack
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Mobile phone & SIM card advice
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Alcohol availability
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Electricity & plug types
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Travel insurance requirements
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How to contact us
Make sure you bookmark this page and keep it handy throughout your travels.
If you still have questions, be sure to check out the Romania section of our FAQ page, or feel free to reach out—just shoot us an email and our friendly team will get back to you ASAP.
We can't wait to welcome you to the land of castles, cobblestones and Carpathian magic. Let the adventure begin!
GETTING THERE
Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP):
Most international flights to Romania arrive at Bucharest's Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP), located around 30 minutes from the city centre and the start of your Indy Escapes adventure.
WHERE TO FIND US
If you’ve arranged an airport transfer, your Indy Escapes driver will be waiting at the arrivals hall holding an Indy Escapes sign. If you’re making your own way, head directly to our meeting point:
CH Hotel Bucharest (full address and map link in your welcome pack).
If you need help at any point, just message us via WhatsApp or email and we’ll get you sorted.
START TIME
CHECK IN – DAY 1:
The tour officially begins at CH Hotel Bucharest at 4:00 PM on Day 1. Arriving earlier? You’re welcome to drop bags and explore Bucharest’s charming Old Town or grab a coffee nearby before the welcome meeting.
WHERE TO STAY BEFORE
We recommend arriving at least one night early to avoid travel delays on Day 1.Our pick: CH Hotel Bucharest, where the tour starts.
FINISH TIME
CHECK OUT – FINAL DAY:
The trip concludes back in Bucharest at the Hilton Garden Inn after breakfast on the final day. Check-out is usually around 11:00 AM, but you’re free to leave earlier if you have a flight or onward plans. Airport transfers or extra nights can be arranged—just let us know.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Romania is part of the EU but not yet in the Schengen Zone. Most travellers from Australia, the UK, the EU, Canada, and the USA can enter visa-free for up to 90 days.
NOTE: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date. Always double-check the latest entry info based on your nationality.
MONEY STUFF & BUDGETING FOR YOUR TOUR
While Romania offers incredible value for money, especially compared to Western Europe, having a travel budget will help you enjoy the full experience.
We recommend budgeting around €250–€500 for the week (or more if you enjoy souvenirs, nightlife or extra activities). This should comfortably cover:
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Additional meals or drinks not included in the package
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Optional excursions (e.g. horse riding, salt mine entry, castle visits)
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Alcohol
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Tips for guides and drivers
Most places accept card, but it's wise to carry a small amount of Romanian Lei (RON) for local shops or mountain stops. ATMs are widely available.
Tipping: As a guideline, €5–10 per day for your guide is appreciated, but always optional.
CURRENCY
The local currency is the Romanian Leu (RON). Euros are not widely accepted, so it’s best to withdraw or exchange upon arrival. Many shops, restaurants and hotels take credit/debit cards, but cash is still preferred in more rural areas.
Download an exchange app like XE.com to stay up to date with conversion rates.
EXCURSIONS
Romania is full of bucket-list experiences, and we’ve designed our trip to offer flexibility and adventure.
Activities include:
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Bran Castle (aka Dracula’s Castle)
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Peles Castle
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Bear Watching
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Sighisoara & Brasov Old Town
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Salina Turda
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Wine Tasting
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Gypsy Village
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Romanian Cooking Clss
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Carpathian hiking
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Thermal spa day (Bucharest)
You’ll have the chance to book and pay for the optional activities in cash on arrival, or via your guide during the trip.
WHAT TO PACK
Romania’s climate can vary—pack for comfort, layers, and adventure.
Essentials:
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Layers for cool evenings (especially in the mountains)
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T-shirts, jeans, activewear
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Waterproof jacket or windbreaker
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Good walking/hiking shoes
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Day backpack
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Swimwear (for spa or thermal baths)
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Power adaptor (Romania uses Type F – European two-round-pin plug)
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Reusable water bottle
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Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
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A small first aid kit and any personal meds
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Snacks for long train or transfer days
PHONE + SIM CARDS
EU travellers can roam as usual, but non-EU guests should get a local SIM.
SIMs from Digi, Orange, or Vodafone are cheap and reliable. You can pick one up at the airport or in Bucharest for under €15 with ample data.
Alternatively, use an eSIM from:
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Airalo
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HolaFly
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Nomad
Just ensure your device is unlocked and compatible with eSIMs.
ALCOHOL
Alcohol is widely available and inexpensive in Romania. Try the local wine, craft beers, or traditional țuică (plum brandy)—but do drink responsibly, especially in smaller towns or conservative areas.
ELECTRICITY
Romania runs on 230V, 50Hz with Type F plugs (same as most of Europe). Bring a universal adapter if needed. A power bank is handy for long travel days or hikes.
INSURANCE
Fully comprehensive ravel insurance is compulsory for this trip.
Make sure your policy includes:
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Emergency medical cover
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Repatriation
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Trip cancellation
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Adventure activities (e.g. hiking, animal encounters, etc)
Carry a digital and printed copy of your policy, along with your passport.
Overall, we are super exited that you will be joiing us in Romania and cannot wait to show you around!
CONTACT US
Need help or have a last-minute request?
📱 WhatsApp: +61 413 644 281 (24/7 support)
We can’t wait to welcome you to Romania for an unforgettable adventure!
Pack your sense of wonder—and maybe a garlic clove or two, just in case Count Dracula shows up 🧛♂️
The Indy Escapes Team






















