Traditions You Can Still Experience in Rural Romania Today
Elena Hubert • May 13, 2025

From embroidered blouses to wood-fired cheese, these are not performances — they’re ways of life.

In a quiet valley at the foot of the Carpathians, a woman named Maria wakes before dawn. She lights a fire in the ceramic stove, kneads bread the way her grandmother taught her, and ties on an embroidered waist belt woven decades ago.

This isn’t a museum. It’s a Tuesday.

Rural Romania is one of the few places in Europe where tradition is still part of daily life — not staged, not diluted, not curated for visitors. When you walk into these mountain villages, you’re stepping into a living heritage.

Clothing: Identity Woven Into Thread


Traditional Romanian clothing is not just for folk dances or photo ops. In many villages, people still wear these garments for religious holidays, community events — even Sunday service.

Women’s blouses (called ie) are hand-embroidered with local motifs: wheat sheaves, vines, crosses, stars. Each design tells you something about the woman who made or wears it — her region, her village, even her life story.

You may be invited to try one on. And when you do, you’ll understand: this is not about dressing up. It’s about stepping respectfully into a cultural identity that’s still very much alive.

Food: Grown, Gathered, Shared


In these villages, meals are not “farm-to-table” — they’re garden-to-fire. Most rural families still grow their own vegetables, raise animals, forage mushrooms, and preserve everything with time-tested methods.

You’ll taste caș cheese still warm from the vat, jams made from wild berries, and soup cooked in cast iron over firewood. Meals are eaten slowly, often outside, and always with pride.

Here, food is not fuel — it’s a daily ritual of love.

Homes with History


Your stay won’t be in a hotel. It will be in someone’s great-grandparents’ home, lovingly restored but never stripped of soul.

You’ll sleep under handwoven wool blankets. Drink your morning tea by a ceramic stove. Wake to the sound of chickens — and maybe an accordion from across the hill.

And yes, you’ll be offered țuică (plum brandy) within 20 minutes of arrival.

Life on the Land


Above the villages, shepherds still move with the seasons. In place like Arefu, you’ll find families making cheese as it’s been made for centuries: over a fire, in wooden vats, watched by dogs and surrounded by silence.

You may get the chance to taste it — warm, soft, smoky — while sitting on a wooden bench with the smell of pine and sheep in the air.

It’s not staged. It’s just life.

The True Luxury: Simplicity & Belonging



Hospitality in Romania is a birthright. You’re not treated as a tourist — you’re treated like a cousin visiting from abroad. You’ll be offered the best chair, the strongest coffee, and the last slice of pie.

There’s an old saying: “Casa mea e și casa ta.”
  My home is your home.
It’s not a slogan. It’s a promise.

Romania’s mountain villages offer something increasingly rare: uncurated life. A place where things aren’t polished, but they are deeply real. Where the pace is slower. Where people look you in the eye when they speak.

If you’re curious what it feels like to live tradition — not just see it — you’ll find it here.


👉 Our 4-day Transfăgărășan & Mountain Life tour ends in castles and starts in homes like these. If you’d like to experience this world for yourself — even just briefly — we’d love to welcome you.

📍 https://www.hubertholidays.co.uk/explore-romanias-hidden-trails


< Older Post

Newer Post >
A table topped with plates of food and vegetables.

Romania on a Plate: A Hiker’s Guide to Mountain Food

By Elena Hubert • May 21, 2025
Discover what to eat on Romania’s wildest hiking route — from Bran and Rucar to Arefu, Balea Lake, Transfagarasan, and Transalpina. Bulz, pastrav, ciorba, zacusca, tuica, balmos, jam, and more — real food from real mountains.
A lake in the middle of a mountain surrounded by mountains.

Planning to Hike in Romania? Don’t Miss These Stops Along the Wild Carpathian Route

By Nick Hubert • May 19, 2025
Explore Romania’s wild hikes, mountain roads, and village life. Easily accessible via Bucharest, Brasov, Sibiu, or Craiova airports.

New Travel Rules in Greece: What Tourists Need to Know (2025)

April 1, 2025
Greece’s Latest Travel Regulations: Visitor Caps, New Taxes, and Sustainability Initiatives  Greece, one of the world’s most beloved travel destinations, is taking bold steps to ensure its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and tourism industry remain sustainable for the future. In response to increasing visitor numbers and environmental challenges, the Greek government has introduced new travel regulations for 2025, including visitor caps at historical sites, eco-friendly taxes, and stricter short-term rental rules. Whether you're planning a summer getaway to Santorini’s sunsets, Athens’ ancient ruins, or Mykonos’ vibrant beaches, these changes may impact your trip. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Greece’s latest travel policies and how they might affect your experience.

Top 5 Seaside Secrets of the Balkans

By Elena Hubert • March 25, 2025
Discover sun-drenched coastlines, local flavours, and laid-back escapes far from the tourist crowds. Dreaming of sun-kissed shores, where turquoise waves whisper against timeless cliffs and the scent of the sea mingles with wood-fired bread and wild herbs? The Balkans call to those who seek more than just a beach—they offer a journey. Here, you’ll wander quiet coastal paths beneath olive trees, share long lunches by the water with wine poured from local vines, and watch the sun dip behind terracotta rooftops. These are places where time slows, flavours linger, and every view feels like a secret. Discover our top 5 beach escapes in the Balkans—where walking meets wonder, and every meal tells a story.

Why Romania’s Castles Are a Must-Visit

By Elena Hubert • March 18, 2025
Step Into a Fairytale: Exploring Romania’s Most Breathtaking Castles Romania is a land of fairytale landscapes, mysterious legends, and breathtaking medieval architecture. Home to some of Europe’s most awe-inspiring castles, Romania offers travellers a mix of history, culture, and Gothic charm. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a fan of Dracula, or simply love exploring architectural masterpieces, Romania’s castles should be at the top of your travel list.
A stack of wooden barrels with flowers in front of a vineyard.

What is wine tourism? And why Romania should be on your list?

By Elena Hubert • March 11, 2025
Discovering Romania’s Hidden Wine Treasures: A Journey Through History, Flavour, and Scenic Vineyards
A colorful flag is flying in front of a mountain

Why visit Romania? A 2025 Must-See Destination

By Nick Hubert • January 31, 2025
Why Visit Romania? A 2025 Must-See Destination Romania has been named one of CNN’s top destinations for 2025 , and for good reason. A land of breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, Romania offers travelers an authentic and diverse experience. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or an adventure seeker, Romania has something for everyone. Here’s why you should visit this hidden gem in Eastern Europe. 1. Stunning Natural Beauty Romania boasts some of the most spectacular landscapes in Europe. From the majestic Carpathian Mountains to the pristine Danube Delta, nature lovers will find endless opportunities for exploration. The Transfăgărășan Highway, famously called the “world’s best road trip” by Top Gear, winds through dramatic peaks, offering breathtaking views at every turn. In contrast, the Danube Delta, one of Europe’s last great wild wetlands, is a paradise for bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts. 2. Fascinating History and Castles Romania’s history is filled with legends and medieval charm. The country is home to Bran Castle , often linked to the Dracula myth, as well as Corvin Castle , one of the most impressive Gothic-Renaissance castles in Europe. Walk through the well-preserved streets of Sighișoara , a UNESCO-listed medieval town, or explore the painted monasteries of Bucovina, each telling a unique story of Romania’s past. 3. Rich Culture and Traditions Romania’s cultural heritage is deeply rooted in folklore, music, and traditions. Experience authentic folk festivals , where locals showcase their centuries-old customs through dance, music, and colorful costumes. Mărțișor , a spring festival, and traditional Romanian food, such as sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls) and mămăligă (cornmeal porridge) , add to the country’s unique charm. 4. Affordable and Less Crowded Unlike many other European destinations, Romania remains affordable for travelers. Whether it's accommodations, food, or activities, you’ll find that your money goes further here. Plus, Romania is still relatively undiscovered , meaning you can enjoy its stunning landscapes and historical sites without overwh elming crowds. 5. Exciting Adventure Opportunities If you love adventure, Romania won’t disappoint. The Carpathians offer hiking, skiing, and wildlife tracking , including the chance to see Europe’s largest brown bear population. The underground Turda Salt Mine is a surreal experience, featuring an underground amusement park, while the unique Muddy Volcanoes in Buzău create a lunar-like landscape. Final Thoughts With its breathtaking nature, medieval castles, deep-rooted traditions, and affordability, Romania is a must-visit destination in 2025. Whether you're drawn to its mysterious legends, scenic landscapes, or warm hospitality, Romania promises an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss out on exploring one of the world’s top destinations this year!