Transylvania
Regions[edit]
Counties of Transylvania[edit]
Understand[edit] Rasnov fortress emerging over the misty hill. Although some people may only associate the name with tales of bloodthirsty vampires (it is the setting of Bram Stoker's novel Dracula), Transylvania is one of the most beautiful natural regions in Europe dotted with picturesque, medieval fortress towns and monasteries. Lively cities with stunning baroque architecture offer modern tourism services at a price far below that of, say, Germany or France. Here you can find some of the most developed cities in Romania, but also old villages where people live as they did a hundred years ago. Transylvania is surrounded by the misty Carpathian mountains and is home to rare fauna (bears, wolves) and flora (orchids and other plants). Transylvania has all the history and multi-ethnic culture you could want. The history of Transylvania is much disputed: once it was an integral part of the Kingdom of Hungary (950-1526), then an independent Principality (1526-1690) before being reabsorbed by the Habsburg Empire. It was united with Wallachian and Moldovia to form Romania after the Austro-Hungarian Empire was dissolved in the Treaty of Triannon, which saw the conclusion of the Great War between Hungary and the Allies. This complex history explains the many cultural differences between Transylvania and the rest of Romania. For much of this history the Romanian majority had, few rights, and were ruled by minorities such as the Hungarians and Saxons. Other minorities included Roma, Jews and Armenians. After World War I, Transylvania became part of Greater Romania. The Communist era was a harsh time for ethnic minorities, especially for those of whom many had been small business owners (Hungarians, Jews) before the totalitarian regime came to power. After the revolution in 1989, most Saxons moved to Germany (having settled in Transylvania, at that time part of the Kingdom of Hungary, in large numbers during the 13th century), and many ethnic Hungarians also left. The relations between the ethnic minorities and majority have have known tense times, but there has never been a serious conflict. Although attitudes of individuals can still be closed towards other groups, Transylvania is an example of different ethnic groups living together in relative peace. However, as with Europe in general, the Roma ethnicity is still seriously discriminated against and their culture is little understood. Today Transylvania is the most developed region in Romania, partly because of tourism and partly because of a stronger capitalist tradition prior to World War II. The presence of the German and Hungarian minorities has been a catalyst for Western influences in Transylvania since 1989. It is interesting to observe the differences within this small region: the South and South East are dominated by Saxon culture, the East and North East are more influenced by Hungarian culture, the North is more Slavic, and the South West different again. Try to visit a few older villages, where the people are generally very friendly. Cities[edit]Other destinations[edit]
Talk[edit]Nowadays, almost everyone in Transylvania speaks Romanian, though for many of the ethnic Hungarians -- about 20% of the population, but far more in certain areas -- Hungarian is actually their first language. Few native German-speakers remain, but in any sizable town you should easily be able to find people who speak at least moderately good English, French, or German. Get in[edit]Transylvania is relatively easy to access, due to its relative economic prosperity, tourism industry and proximity to Central Europe. By plane[edit]There are three main airports in the region.
By train[edit]There are several daily international trains:
Very frequent trains link cities in Transylvania with Bucharest and major cities in all other regions of Romania. Check timetables on infofer.ro [13]. Get around[edit]Transylvania is a must see destination for people travelling in this part of Europe. Trains are usually the best way to travel between major Transylvanian cities and touristic destinations. However, many of the region's landmarks lie hidden from major transportation routes, so it is recommended you either rent a car or take buses to those places. Here you can find information about trains: [14] and [15] You can find great and detailed road maps in any gas station throughout the country, in train stations and in most newsstands. These detailed road maps can lead you anywhere, without much guidance needed. Be careful though for secondary and tertiary roads are not clearly marked, so sometimes you have to ask for directions. People are usually very friendly and will help you get to the destination of your choice. Buses are becoming a popular means of transportation in Transylvania. Usually, they leave from train stations in major cities, and stop in the central area of smaller ones. As in all eastern Europe, hitchhiking is common and even a preferred way of transport for some locals. It is polite to leave the one who drives you some money, about 1-2 lei / 30min. However, people won't get mad if you don't leave anything and they might turn your money down anyway. Choosing the right spot for hitching increases your chances drastically- try to ask people on the street where to stand. Bicycles are a very convenient and eco-friendly way of getting around in Transylvania and this way you can observe the natural beauty and even visit the smallest and remotest of villages. Beware though that most circuits include large elevations, so you should be used to climbing hills. In remote villages you can always find locals who will sell you very cheaply some fresh produce: fruits, vegetable, dairy products, or even invite you for lunch. Racing bikes with narrow tires are not recommended though, even major roads have many defects and in the more remote areas you will travel on dirt roads, so a robust mountain bike is preferred. Rent A Car[edit]See[edit][add listing]Do[edit][add listing]Eat[edit][add listing]Romanian dishes[edit]
Hungarian dishes[edit]
Saxon dishes[edit]There aren't many Saxon restaurants, but if you find one you can explore it and post some info here. Drink[edit][add listing]
Stay safe[edit]Transylvania is not a land of dangers lurking around each darkened corner. It has a relatively large number of police stations, so if anything goes amiss on your journey, help will be close by. You should beware of pickpocketing around busy tourist attractions and in heavily touristed towns, like Sinaia, there will be some con men out to prey on tourists. Beware of the "maradona". Police corruption has been reduced significantly and you would be better off being nice and friendly to police officers, rather than offering them money. If you feel like you are being mistreated by a police officer, ask for his superior. Get out[edit]
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