EU/EEA citizens can enter with a valid ID; non-EU visitors may need a visa. Romania is in Schengen from March 2024.

What currency is used?

Romanian Leu (RON). Euros are sometimes accepted in tourist areas, but cash is preferred; ATMs are plentiful.

Is English widely spoken?

Younger people and those in tourism speak English well. In villages, some Romanian or Hungarian phrases help.

Can I drink tap water?

Yes, tap water is safe in urban areas, but bottled water is recommended in remote areas.

How do I reach Corvin Castle?

From Deva, take a bus or taxi to Hunedoara (15 min); the castle is a short walk from the town center.

Is hiking in Retezat safe?

Trails are well-marked but can be demanding. Carry a map, check weather, and inform someone of your route. Bears are present—stay alert.

What are the opening hours for main sights?

Corvin Castle: daily 9–17:30 (summer), closed Mondays in winter. Deva Fortress: same hours. Check ahead for holidays.

Are there any festivals?

The Medieval Festival in Hunedoara (August), Retezat Mountain Running Marathon, and Deva Days celebrate local culture.

What local dishes should I try?

Try 'ciorbă de burtă' (tripe soup), 'mici' (grilled minced meat rolls), and 'papanasi' (fried doughnuts with sour cream and jam).

Can I use my mobile phone?

Roaming works for EU SIMs. Local prepaid SIMs with good data plans are available from Orange, Vodafone, or Digi for ~$5.

Is it family-friendly?

Absolutely: Corvin Castle captivates kids, and easy nature walks in Hațeg Country appeal to all ages.

What is the currency?

Romanian Leu (RON). Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, but cash is needed in rural areas.

Can I visit Corvin Castle without a tour?

Yes, you can buy tickets on-site. Guided tours are available in multiple languages.

Are there ATMs in Hunedoara?

Yes, in Deva, Hunedoara, and Orăștie. Carry cash for smaller villages.

What is the best way to get from Bucharest to Hunedoara?

By car (5-6 hours) or train to Deva (about 6 hours). There are also buses.

Is it safe to hike in Retezat National Park?

Yes, but trails are marked. Hire a guide for remote routes. Weather changes quickly.

What souvenirs should I buy?

Handmade pottery, wooden carvings, traditional embroidered blouses, and local honey or palinca.

Are there any local festivals?

Yes, the Medieval Festival at Corvin Castle in August and the Deva Citadel Festival in September.

Hunedoara County

Romania, Europe

Hunedoara County is a STATE in Romania, Europe.

Step into a land where medieval fortresses pierce the sky and wild mountains whisper ancient legends. Hunedoara County, in the heart of Transylvania, Romania, is a realm of contrasts: the soaring Gothic spires of Corvin Castle, one of Europe's largest and most dramatic, cling to a hilltop above the industrial city of Hunedoara. Beyond, the Retezat National Park unfolds a hiker's paradise of glacial lakes, rugged peaks, and pristine pine forests, offering trails for all levels. Explore the mysterious Dacian fortresses in the Orăștie Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where the echoes of pre-Roman civilizations still resonate. Stroll through the elegant squares and Baroque buildings of Deva, with its hilltop fortress, or retreat to the tranquil karst landscapes of the Hațeg Country, home to the legendary dwarf dinosaurs. The region's soulful villages, hearty Transylvanian cuisine, and warm hospitality provide an authentic escape. Whether you're tracing vampire lore, birdwatching, or simply soaking in the timeless rural scenery, Hunedoara County delivers an unforgettable journey into myth and nature.

Best time to visit Hunedoara County

May to October is ideal for hiking and outdoor exploration, with warm days and wildflowers in the mountains. June and September offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds than the July-August peak. Winter (December–February) transforms Corvin Castle into a snowy fairy-tale, but many hiking trails are inaccessible. Christmas markets in Deva and Hunedoara in December add festive charm. Spring (April–May) and autumn (late September–October) boast stunning foliage and cultural festivals.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Cool 5°C to 15°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Moderate
Prices: Mid

Spectacular fall foliage; some mountain huts close late October.

Know before you go

Getting there

SBZ

Sibiu International Airport

International

100 km away

TSR

Timișoara Traian Vuia International Airport

International

170 km away

CLJ

Cluj-Napoca International Airport

International

170 km away

OTP

Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport

International

350 km away

ARW

Arad International Airport

International

160 km away

TGM

Târgu Mureș International Airport

International

150 km away

Getting around

"A car is essential to fully explore remote castles, villages, and hiking trailheads. Major roads are paved but some mountain tracks require careful driving. Public buses and maxi-taxi minibuses connect towns, but schedules are infrequent. Trains link Deva to major cities like Cluj and Bucharest, but stations may be far from sights. For Retezat National Park, organized tours or private drivers are convenient options. Cycling is popular on secondary roads, and walking is ideal within town centers."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

30 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Widely available in cities and tourist accommodations

Local SIM

Local SIM available at any mobile shop from $5

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Low crime, but take care with stray dogs, wildlife while hiking, and potential taxi scams. Avoid unlit areas at night.

Night safety

7/10

Low crime, but take care with stray dogs, wildlife while hiking, and potential taxi scams. Avoid unlit areas at night.

Transport

8/10

Scam risk

5/10

"Hunedoara County is very safe with low violent crime. Petty theft can occur in busy tourist spots like Corvin Castle; keep valuables secure. Beware of aggressive stray dogs in rural areas and do not approach them. While hiking in Retezat, respect wildlife (bears, vipers) by making noise and carrying bear spray. Roads in mountain areas can be winding and poorly lit; drive carefully. Use licensed taxis or rideshare apps to avoid scams."

Police

112

Ambulance

112

Fire

112

Entry and health

Health information

"Tap water is safe to drink in cities, but bottled water is recommended in remote villages. Tick-borne diseases (Lyme disease, TBE) are present in forested areas: wear long sleeves, use repellent, and check for ticks after hiking. Medical facilities in Deva and Hunedoara are adequate for emergencies; the nearest major hospital is in Timișoara. Travel insurance covering outdoor activities is strongly advised. Pharmacies are widely available for minor ailments."

Culture

Local customs

"Romanians are hospitable and appreciate greetings with a handshake and 'Bună ziua' (Good day). Dress modestly when entering Orthodox churches: cover shoulders and knees; women may need to cover their heads. Tipping 10% is customary in restaurants. Do not photograph people without permission. When invited into a home, bring a small gift like flowers (odd number) or chocolates. Sunday is family day; many shops close early. Romanians take pride in their folklore and traditions—respecting local festivals and customs is appreciated."

Romanian (official)HungarianRomaniGermanUkrainianRomanian

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$5-7 | a cheap local meal costs around $5-7

Hotels

$30-50 | budget hotels range $30-50/night, mid-range $50-80

Local transport

$0.75 | local bus ride ~$0.75

Cost notes

Romania offers exceptional value; eating out and accommodation are cheaper than most EU countries.

Timezone

Europe/Bucharest
Local time 21:24

More facts

Population

400,000

ISO code

RO-21

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Sameschdorf, Zam

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