Like most eastern European countries, Romania’s climate is characterised by cold winters and pleasantly warm summers.

As it’s a nation blessed with contrasting geography, there are variations from place to place. Summers are hottest across the southeastern plain that leads down to the Black Sea. Temperatures regularly hit 30 Celsius in the capital, Bucharest, and can get hotter still when humid southerly winds arrive. However the breeze can often make the coastal fringe refreshingly cooler.

Further north and west the Carpathian Mountains and the Transylvanian plateau are also cooler, thanks to their altitude. However these areas tend to see more cloud and the bulk of the afternoon downpours that can crop up in the summer months. Even here, though, most days are dry.

Autumn and spring offer a mellower warmth and can often be the most comfortable times to visit. But these season don’t last long.

With winter comes much colder weather. Temperatures are typically close to freezing by day, with hard frosts at night. Snowfall often blankets the country, although there are occasional thaws. And again, the lowest countryside towards the Black Sea resorts often escapes the coldest and snowiest weather. In contrast the mountainous areas further north and west can experience harsh cold, especially when Siberian winds arrive from the north east. At these times, the country can experience temperatures of -20 Celsius or even lower.

So dress for variety - through the year and across this fascinating country of contrasts.

Quick facts about

Romania

Capital:

Currency:

Bucharest