Caraș-Severin County

EU/EEA and Swiss citizens can travel visa-free. Most other visitors need a Schengen visa (Romania is in the Schengen area).

Romanian Leu (RON). Euros are rarely accepted; carry cash for villages. ATMs are scarce outside Reșița and Oravița.

Yes in Reșița and most towns, but in mountain springs or remote wells boil or filter first. Bottled water is cheap and widely available.

Yes, the site remains accessible and scenic, though a large part collapsed in 2021. It's still an iconic photo stop.

Direct trains take about 2 hours; buses are frequent and slightly faster. A taxi or rental car offers the most flexibility.

Yes, the Semenic and Nera regions have a healthy brown bear population. Hike in groups, make noise, and carry bear spray if you have it.

Highly recommended in July and August, especially for mountain chalets and guesthouses. Off-season you can often just walk in.

Don't miss ciorbă de burtă (tripe soup), mici (grilled skinless sausages), plăcinte cu brânză (cheese pies) and homemade palincă (fruit brandy).

Yes, but inform someone of your route and expected return. Mobile coverage is patchy in deep gorges; a GPS device helps.

The most dramatic section is near Dubova and the Cazanele Mari. By car from Reșița (about 90 km) or via boat trips from Orșova.

In hotels and tourist info points you'll get by; in remote villages only Romanian. A few phrases in Romanian will be warmly appreciated.

Very limited. It's better to bring your own bike or rent one in Timișoara. The Anina Mountains offer superb but challenging cycling routes.

Tap water is safe in cities like Reșița, but bottled water is recommended in remote areas.

Fly to Timișoara (TSR) or Belgrade (BEG), then drive or take a bus. Reșița has a small airport with limited flights.

Sturdy hiking boots, rain gear, insect repellent, sunscreen, and layers for mountain weather. A power adapter (European plug) is needed.

Yes, but solo hikers should inform someone of their route. Stick to marked trails and avoid remote areas after dark.

Yes, coverage is good in towns but spotty in mountains. Buy a local SIM for data.

Cheile Nerei-Beușnița National Park, Iron Gates, Bigăr Waterfall, Băile Herculane spa, and Carașova Fortress.

Yes, in Reșița and at major attractions. They provide maps and advice.

Mămăligă (polenta), ciorbă de burtă (tripe soup), sarmale (cabbage rolls), and local cheeses like telemea.