Romania offers a surprisingly diverse range of unique destinations, ideal for a different kind of vacation—one where you can blend relaxation, nature, history, and local culture.

Whether you're looking to explore an authentic Saxon village like Viscri, descend into the spectacular depths of the Turda Salt Mine, drive along the most impressive alpine roads in the country like the Transalpina, or stroll among the fortified walls of historic towns such as Făgăraș and Deva, the options are varied and captivating. Moreover, places like Bran and Sinaia add a touch of royalty and mystery to any summer holiday.

These places not only offer stunning landscapes and valuable tourist attractions but also promise a peaceful atmosphere, far from the hustle and bustle of overly touristic areas. Here, you’ll discover authentic Romania—welcoming people, local cuisine, and experiences that will stay with you long after your trip.

In what follows, we present the 7 destinations we consider among the most special to visit in August. Get your camera, pack your bags, and bring along your sense of adventure—a memorable journey through the heart of Romania awaits!

Viscri – the Saxon village where time stands still

Tucked away among the rolling green hills of Transylvania, Viscri is one of the most authentic Saxon villages in Romania and a true gem for those seeking peace, tradition, and unspoiled rural beauty. Part of the UNESCO World Heritage, Viscri is best known for its 13th-century fortified church—one of the best-preserved in the country—but also for the unique charm of its colorful houses lined up along the main street like a living postcard.

(Source: Valea Verde Retreat)  

The village's history is closely tied to the Saxon community that founded it and lived here for centuries. Carefully restored over the past few decades, Viscri has become a symbol of sustainable tourism in Romania—so much so that even King Charles III visited and purchased a traditional house in the village. That royal home now hosts tourists looking for authentic experiences, and the entire area serves as a model for heritage conservation and traditional living.

What can you do in Viscri in August? You can visit the Fortified Church, ride a bike along the cobbled roads, explore local artisan workshops, or simply relax in a shady courtyard while enjoying home-cooked meals made with fresh ingredients from the garden. The surrounding hills also offer perfect settings for gentle hikes or quiet moments of reflection and connection with nature.

Viscri is the ideal destination for those wanting to slow down, rediscover the charm of simple living, and spend a few days in a village where authenticity and respect for the past are still very much alive. If you're looking to escape the noise of modern life and recharge in a calm, clean, and meaningful environment, Viscri should definitely be on your August travel list.

Făgăraș – Medieval Fortresses, Mountain Freshness, and Impressive Alpine Scenery

Nestled at the foot of the Făgăraș Mountains, in the heart of Țara Făgărașului, the town of Făgăraș is a perfect summer getaway that beautifully combines medieval history with the spectacular nature of the Carpathians. In August, the temperatures are pleasant, the air is crisp and fresh, and the scenery – simply unforgettable.

(Source: G4 Media )  

The main attraction is the imposing Făgăraș Fortress, one of the best-preserved medieval fortifications in Romania. With its water-filled moat, massive bastions, and an impressive museum inside, the fortress tells stories of rulers, noblewomen, and medieval battles. It's a perfect spot for history lovers and families with children.

But Făgăraș is more than just history. Nearby, you’ll find the gateway to the famous Transfăgărășan, a mountain road that climbs over 2,000 meters in altitude, winding through dramatic alpine landscapes and reaching the stunning Bâlea Lake. The region also serves as a great starting point for hikes into the Făgăraș Mountains, the highest range in the country.

What you can do in the area:

• Visit the Făgăraș Fortress – a journey back in time through history and architecture

• Hike to Cabana Valea Sâmbetei or Moldoveanu Peak – for breathtaking alpine views and fresh mountain air

• Relax in the clean mountain air – perfect for unwinding and recharging

• Take walks through the traditional village of Șona or the rural landscapes of Țara Făgărașului – where authenticity and nature go hand in hand

In addition, the city offers charming cafés, restaurants serving local dishes, and a relaxed atmosphere—ideal for a summer city break with a mountain vibe.

Făgăraș is the place where you can combine cultural exploration with outdoor adventure, without crowds, without noise, just peace, fresh air, and postcard-worthy landscapes. A true refuge for those looking to escape the heat and connect with the essence of Transylvania.

Deva – History on a hilltop and panoramic views over the Hațeg Land

Located in the western part of the country, at the foothills of the Poiana Ruscă Mountains, Deva is a city with a unique energy, where history, nature, and culture blend harmoniously. Dominated by the imposing silhouette of Deva Fortress, perched on a volcanic hill, this destination is perfect for a getaway in August when the temperatures are mild and the green landscapes are at their peak.

(Source: Wikipedia )  

Deva Fortress, built in the 13th century, is the symbol of the city and one of the most spectacular fortifications in Transylvania. You can reach the fortress by a modern funicular or on foot, along shaded paths. Once at the top, you will enjoy one of the most beautiful panoramas in Transylvania, overlooking the entire city, the Apuseni Mountains, and the Hațeg Land.

But Deva is also a great starting point for exploring the surrounding area. Just a few kilometers away, you will find:

• Hunyadi Castle in Hunedoara – one of the most beautiful Gothic buildings in Romania

• Sarmizegetusa Regia – the capital of Dacia and a place full of mystery

• Geoagiu Băi – a spa resort with thermal springs and Roman ruins

In the city, you can also visit the Fortress Park, perfect for relaxing in the shade, as well as the Museum of Dacian and Roman Civilization, which offers a captivating journey into the region’s past.

Why choose Deva in August? Because it is the ideal combination of nature, cool hill air, living history, and proximity to some of the most spectacular tourist attractions in western Romania. It’s an inspired choice for curious travelers passionate about the past, as well as for those who want to enjoy an active and authentic vacation, away from the crowds.

Bran – History, Myths, and Nature in the Heart of the Carpathians

Known worldwide because of the Dracula legend, Bran is much more than just a storybook setting. It is a mountain village with authentic charm, nestled in a spectacular natural setting where tradition blends with history, and the fresh mountain air makes every day in August an invitation to relax and explore.

(Source: Discover Brasov )  

Bran Castle, the area’s main attraction, is an imposing medieval fortress perched on a rock dominating the landscape. Although often associated with the myth of Dracula, the castle has a fascinating real history, having been a royal residence during the interwar period and featuring unique Gothic architecture in Romania. A visit inside takes you through rooms furnished with period pieces, narrow corridors, and mysterious towers.

But Bran is not just about the castle. In the surrounding area, you can explore the Bran Village Museum, a lively corner of local ethnography, and enjoy easy trails through nearby forests or strolls through blooming meadows where traditional houses stand quietly at the foot of the mountains.

During summer, Bran is peaceful in the mornings and lively in the evenings, when the terraces in the village center become gathering spots for tourists and locals alike. The atmosphere is that of an authentic mountain village, with fresh local products, hay carts, burduf cheese, and artisanal pálinka sold by the roadside.

Why visit Bran in August? Because it’s the perfect place to combine a living lesson in history with the tranquility of nature and the flavor of Romanian traditions. Bran is not just a famous tourist spot but a complete experience where every corner tells a story. It’s an ideal destination for those looking to escape the city and discover the unspoiled charm of the Romanian mountains.

Sinaia – Royal Elegance and Mountain Air in the Heart of Summer

Situated at the foot of the Bucegi Mountains, Sinaia is one of Romania’s most charming mountain destinations, where the coolness of alpine forests blends with the refinement of royal history. In August, when cities heat up under the strong sun, Sinaia becomes an oasis of tranquility, greenery, and inspiration, offering a refreshing and elegant atmosphere suitable for all ages.

(Source: Calator prin Romania ) 

The crown jewel is undoubtedly Peleș Castle, the former summer residence of the Romanian royal family. Built at the end of the 19th century, the castle impresses with its Neo-Renaissance architecture and lavish interior details, turning any visit into a true journey through time. Nearby is Pelișor Castle, smaller but full of refinement and warmth, and was the favorite of Queen Maria.

Beyond the royal buildings, Sinaia captivates with the Sinaia Monastery, founded in the 17th century, which also gave the town its name. With a fascinating history and a peaceful courtyard, it is a perfect place for reflection and contemplation.

For nature lovers, the resort offers easy access to Cota 1400 and Cota 2000, starting points for spectacular trails in the Bucegi Mountains. The cable car, fresh air, breathtaking landscapes, and forest coolness make every hike a rejuvenating experience.

Sinaia is also a lively cultural destination, with concerts, exhibitions, and events organized throughout the summer, as well as a place with refined restaurants, cozy cafés, and terraces with mountain views.

Why visit Sinaia in August? Because it’s the perfect combination of mountain freshness and royal architectural elegance. It’s the place where you can climb in the Bucegi Mountains in the morning, visit a castle in the afternoon, and end the day with a peaceful dinner on a flower-filled terrace. Sinaia is the ideal spot to escape the hustle and enjoy a vacation full of style and freshness.

Salina Turda – an underground wonder with fresh air and unique spectacularity

In the heart of Transylvania, just a few kilometers from the city of Cluj-Napoca, lies one of the most spectacular underground destinations in the world: Salina Turda. Transformed from an old salt mine into a renowned international tourist theme park, Salina Turda offers visitors a complete experience of relaxation, exploration, and coolness—especially welcome in the month of August.

(Source: Tripadvisor )  

With a history dating back to the Roman era, the salt mine was used for centuries for salt extraction, and since 1992 it has been open to the public as a tourist attraction. Today, the impressive galleries and chambers of the mine—such as Rudolf Hall, Ghizela Hall, and the underground lake—are artistically illuminated and equipped with modern facilities, making it a unique place in Europe.

What truly makes Salina Turda special is the combination of history, health, and fun. The air inside is rich in saline aerosols and has proven benefits for respiratory health. Additionally, visitors can play mini-golf, float on the lake by boat, or ride the panoramic wheel located deep within the mine—all tens of meters underground, in a setting that feels like another world.

Outside the salt mine, the surroundings offer other attractions, such as Turda Gorge, ideal for hiking and climbing, making it a perfect complement to an active outdoor day. Salina Turda is perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers seeking an unusual escape in a cool and spectacular place.

If in August you want to escape the heat, breathe fresh air, and explore one of the most fascinating achievements of man and nature in Romania, Salina Turda is a must-stop on your journey.

Transalpina – The King’s Road and One of Europe’s Most Spectacular Roads

Transalpina, also known as “The King’s Road,” is the highest road in Romania, reaching an altitude of over 2,145 meters at the Urdele Pass. Located in the heart of the Parâng Mountains, Transalpina connects Oltenia with Transylvania and offers an absolutely unforgettable driving experience, being considered one of the most scenic and dramatic mountain roads in Europe.

(Source:Evenimentul Zilei )  

With a history dating back to the Dacian and Roman periods, the road was rebuilt during the interwar period and inaugurated by King Carol II, which is why it earned the nickname “The King’s Road.” Today, Transalpina attracts thousands of tourists every summer eager to admire spectacular views, breathe the fresh mountain air, and enjoy a unique adventure, whether driving a car or riding a motorcycle.

Along the route, which stretches between the towns of Novaci and Sebeș, you will encounter breathtaking alpine landscapes, dense forests, alpine meadows, and flocks of sheep peacefully grazing in the wind. In August, the weather is perfect for a day trip or even an active stay in the area.

Must-see attractions include:

• Oașa Lake, a perfect spot for a relaxing stop

• Rânca Resort, ideal for accommodation or hiking

• Viewpoints offering unforgettable panoramas of the mountain peaks

Transalpina is not just a road – it’s a destination in itself. Whether you choose to travel it in a single day or plan a road trip with stops and overnight stays in the area, you’ll discover a corner of Romania that will surprise you with its wild beauty and the complete tranquility of the mountains.

For those seeking coolness, pure nature, and the feeling of absolute freedom, Transalpina is one of the best choices for an August vacation.