Romania can be reached by plane, train, long-distance bus, car, or coach. Large cities have airports, while smaller towns may be reached through a regional airport, a gară, or an autogară. A gară is a railway station, and an autogară is a bus station. These words are useful when asking for directions or buying a ticket. Romania uses the Romanian leu, written as lei in the plural and often shown as RON. Cards are common in cities, but cash can still be useful for small shops, markets, local transport, or rural areas. At the beginning, save the address of your accommodation in writing and on your phone. Keep your passport or identity document, travel details, and important contact numbers easy to reach. Romanian is the main public language. English is more common in airports, hotels, universities, and larger cities, but simple Romanian words can help in smaller places. Local transport may include buses, trams, trolleybuses, taxis, ride services, and trains. Check the destination, price, and meeting point before starting a journey. For urgent police, fire, or medical help, 112 is the general emergency number in Romania. Give your location clearly and stay available for follow-up questions. The first days are a good time to learn the nearest supermarket, pharmacy, medical service, public transport stop, and safe route home. A local person, host, or colleague can often explain practical habits that are not obvious from signs. Romania offers many useful services and welcoming communities, but opening hours, payment methods, and English-language support can differ between places. Keep a small backup plan for transport, money, phone power, and accommodation.
Arrival in Romania
Arrival in Romania usually begins at an airport, railway station, bus station, or road border. The first useful steps are finding safe transport, getting Romanian lei, arranging communication, and learning where to ask for help. Small planning choices make the first days much easier.
Tip
Prepare one small arrival folder with your identity document, accommodation address, emergency contact, and travel plan. Carry a little cash in lei and keep your phone charged. Ask one trusted local person to show you the nearest useful services.