Romania
Romania is part of the European Union and has joined the Schengen Area for air and sea borders as of January 2024. Standard Schengen visa rules generally apply. Most citizens from the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, UK, EU/EEA countries, Japan, South Korea, and Brazil can enter visa-free for stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
Citizens of countries without visa-free agreements typically need a Schengen visa (Type C - short stay visa). This generally involves applying through the Romanian embassy or consulate in your country of residence. For stays exceeding 90 days or for specific purposes like work or study, a Long-Stay Visa (Type D) is necessary.
No general entry fees apply for tourists entering Romania, though visa application fees apply for those requiring a visa. Standard passport control occurs upon arrival. Immigration officers may inquire about the purpose and duration of your visit.
Generally, no special permits are necessary for standard tourism activities in Maramureș. For specific, non-tourism related activities like extensive research or film production, local permits might be required.
World Nomads
Emergency medical, evacuation, trip cancellation.
SafetyWing
Health insurance, travel medical, remote workers.
Insubuy
Medical and travel-related coverage for US visits.
The local currency is the Romanian Leu (RON), subdivided into Bani. Exchange rates fluctuate; check current rates before travel. Use banks or official exchange offices; avoid airports for large sums. ATMs are widely available in towns. Visa and Mastercard are accepted in many places, but cash is king in rural areas.
For budget travelers (hostels, local food, public transport), expect 40-70 USD (180-315 RON) per day. Mid-range travelers (guesthouses, sit-down meals, car rental share) can anticipate 70-150 USD (315-675 RON) daily. Luxury travelers (boutique hotels, fine dining, private transport) should plan for 150-300+ USD (675-1350+ RON) per day.
Tipping is customary. For restaurants, 5-10% is standard. Round up taxi fares by 5-10 RON. Hotel staff may receive 5-10 RON per day.
Opt for guesthouses with board options for value and authenticity. Local eateries (ciorbării) offer affordable, traditional meals. Local markets provide fresh produce for picnics.
Utilize inter-city buses (microbuze) for longer distances.
Maramureș villages are best explored on foot, allowing for closer observation and no cost.
Consider guesthouses outside of the busiest tourist spots for better value, like a few kilometers from Sighetu Marmației.
Reaching Maramureș is possible through various transport methods, offering flexibility depending on your origin and preference.
Maramureș is served by nearby airports. Baia Mare International Airport (BAY) is the closest, with flights mainly to Bucharest and some international destinations. Cluj-Napoca International Airport (CLJ), a 3-4 hour drive, provides more extensive domestic and international connections.
From Baia Mare (BAY): Taxis are available with fixed rates to the city center. Local buses connect to the city center. Car rental desks are at the airport. Pre-booked private transfers can take you to specific Maramureș villages.
No specific exit fees or taxes apply for departing travelers from Romanian airports or borders. Plan your airport arrival: 2-3 hours before international flights, 1.5-2 hours for domestic flights.
