Is Romania safe to travel?

In Bucharest take care in the densely built-up areas, in the Ferentari, Rahova and Pantelimon districts, and around international hotels, stations and airports. Avoid moving through the outer fringes of the main cities, particularly in the evening, and stay away from crowds and demonstrations.

Romania is one of the European countries most exposed to seismic risk. The most exposed part is the south-east, above all the mountainous Vrancea region, which still has tremors and where the March 1977 earthquake killed more than 1,500 people and damaged Bucharest badly. Tremors have also been recorded along the border between the Galati and Braila provinces.

Violent spells of bad weather hit high ground and the main cities alike, with downpours, lightning, strong gusts and heavy snow in winter, which can disrupt travel in and between towns. Rivers rise suddenly, bringing a high risk of landslides and flooding. Check the forecasts and the yellow, orange and red weather warnings, and the state of the roads, before you set out.

Be wary of people who claim to be plainclothes police officers and ask to see your documents, and turn down suspiciously good offers or invitations to nightclubs from strangers. Carry photocopies and keep the originals somewhere safe but easy to reach for a genuine check, and do not show cash, passport, jewellery or phone in public.