According to forum posts, major international rental companies like Avis, Budget, Hertz, and Sixt, as well as the largest local company, Autonom, are recommended for reliability in Romania. These companies generally have more predictable pricing and are considered safe options.

Some travelers have noted challenges in finding rental companies that allow cross-border travel into non-EU countries. While it’s possible to take rental cars to some neighboring EU countries, traveling to places like Moldova might require renting a separate car in that country.

Travelers have called out that while smaller local companies may offer lower daily rates, these can often come with unexpected costs such as high insurance fees, large deposits, and extra charges for minor damages, making them less reliable.

For some users, renting a car in cities other than Bucharest, such as Sofia, was considered to potentially offer cheaper cross-border options. However, specifics such as exact price comparisons are not provided in the posts.

According to forum posts, a popular itinerary suggestion for exploring Transylvania involves starting from Sibiu, using it as a base to visit nearby attractions such as Balea Lake, Corvin Castle, Salina Turda, and various monasteries and villages. Afterwards, moving to Brasov for a few days allows for trips to Sighisoara Citadel, Peles Castle, and the Bucegi Mountains.

Some travelers have recommended spending 1-2 days in Bucharest before heading to Sinaia to visit Peles Castle, then proceeding to Brasov. From there, exploring nearby sites like Bran Castle, the bear sanctuary near Zarnesti, and eventually Sighisoara. Ending the trip in Sibiu after visiting other significant sites offers a comprehensive tour of southern Transylvania.

For those interested in rural and traditional experiences, Maramures is suggested as a worthy addition. It can be paired with a visit to the painted monasteries in Bukovina, providing a deep dive into the cultural heritage of northern Romania.

According to forum posts, travelers can buy train tickets from Bucharest to Brașov directly at the North Station in Bucharest or online. It is feasible to purchase tickets from ticket booths or machines about 20-30 minutes before departure on weekdays. However, for weekend or holiday travel, it is advisable to book at least a day in advance.

Travelers have noted that storage for luggage such as suitcases and bags is available on trains. Overhead racks are provided, and additional space is available under seats or on the floor, provided they do not block access for other passengers.

Some travelers mentioned that the train journey from Bucharest to Brașov is generally faster than traveling by bus, taking at least an hour less. This makes the train a preferable option for those looking to save time during their travel.

According to forum posts, Brasov is a popular destination for snow-related activities like sledding, snow tubing, and potentially snowmobiling. Poiana Brasov, Sinaia, Predeal, Busteni, and Azuga are nearby resorts offering these facilities during the winter months.

Travelers have highlighted several hiking opportunities around Brasov. The Tampa viewpoint and Postavaru massif offer trails directly from the city, while Piatra Craiului National Park, accessible from Zarnesti town, provides routes like the Botorog Fountain to Zarnesti Gorge trail.

Some travelers mentioned options for canyoning and white-water rafting for experienced adventurers. The Buzau and Aries rivers near Brasov are recommended spots for these activities, with rafting on the Buzau River being a noted option.

For families with young children, the bear reservation near Zarnesti and various farms around Brasov are suggested as engaging activities. Additionally, there are playgrounds and adventure parks in the city suitable for younger visitors.

According to forum posts, Tulcea is a recommended starting point for exploring the Danube Delta, with available long-term parking lots. For a more immersive experience, staying in villages like Sulina or Sfantu Gheorghe, which provide access to both the Delta and nearby beaches, is advisable.

Travelers have highlighted the importance of choosing boat tours that explore smaller channels and remote lakes for a more authentic experience of the Delta’s wildlife and scenery. It is suggested to avoid tours that only traverse the main Danube channels.

Posts suggest pre-booking boat tours and accommodations, especially during the high season in August. Planning ahead ensures availability and possibly better pricing, despite the general observation that prices do not significantly decrease by booking on arrival.

For families, all boat trips in the Delta are generally considered safe for children, including younger ones. However, travelers have noted that mosquitoes can be a problem, so appropriate precautions should be taken.

Forum contributors report that the region is safe for travel and has not been affected by nearby conflicts. Accessibility to remote parts of the Delta might require hiring local guides or arranging transport through accommodation providers.

Travelers have called out specific castles in Romania that are considered must-sees. Peles Castle in Sinaia is highlighted as a former royal residence and a stunning architectural feat. Bran Castle, commonly associated with the Dracula legend, is another popular destination. Both offer guided tours, often in English, which can be convenient for those who are not fluent in Romanian.

According to forum posts, to visit these castles, it's common to drive or use public transportation. Visitors can travel by train, but separate tickets may be required for different segments of the journey, such as from Brașov to Sinaia and then from Sinaia to Bucharest. It's advisable to purchase tickets ahead of time, especially on weekends, to avoid long queues.

Some users suggested that when visiting Sinaia, apart from the castle, the Sinaia Monastery and the central resort area are worth exploring. For a more comprehensive experience, combining the castle tours with hikes in nearby mountains or exploring other historical sites in the vicinity can enrich the travel experience. Booking entry tickets in advance, especially for Peles Castle, is recommended to manage time better and avoid the crowd.

Some travelers have highlighted the UNESCO-listed wooden churches in Maramureș as key cultural heritage sites. Notable mentions include the Barsana Monastery, St. Nicholas Budesti, Desesti – St. Parascheva, Ieud - Church of the Birth of the Most Holy Mother of God, Poienile Izei - St. Parascheva, and Rogoz Church of the Archangel. These sites are celebrated for their traditional wooden architecture and their deep-rooted history in the Romanian Orthodox tradition.

According to forum posts, the Painted Monasteries of Bukovina are also significant cultural heritage sites. These include monasteries like Voroneț, known for its unique blue frescoes. Travelers have emphasized that these monasteries offer a vivid glimpse into the religious and artistic history of the region, making them a must-visit for those interested in cultural and religious studies.

Travelers have called out the old Saxon villages like Viscri, Biertan, and Prejmer for their fortified churches, which are recognized by UNESCO. These sites are not only architectural feats but also serve as a window into the historical interactions between ethnic groups in Transylvania.