Christmas & New Year Tours in Romania

What our customers ask about Christmas & New Year Tours in Romania

• What's the weather like during Christmas & New Year in Romania and what should I pack?

  December and January in Romania see temperatures ranging from -5°C to 2°C (23°F to 35°F) with frequent snowfall particularly in mountain regions like the Carpathians. Essential winter gear includes waterproof boots for snowy conditions a heavy winter coat and warm layers. Visitors to religious sites such as the Black Church in Brasov need clothing that covers shoulders and knees. For city celebrations like Bucharest's New Year's events at the Palace of Parliament smart casual attire is recommended alongside winter wear.

• Which cities offer the best Christmas markets and holiday atmosphere in Romania?

  Romania's winter festivals center around historic squares in several cities. Sibiu's Grand Square transforms into a traditional marketplace where local artisans sell crafts while Brasov's Council Square features a towering Christmas tree surrounded by vendor stalls. In Bucharest the Constitution Square market adds modern touches with light displays and ice skating. The medieval streets of Sighisoara and Cluj-Napoca host smaller yet equally engaging markets. As one TourRadar traveler noted: "The Christmas market in Sibiu's main square was magical with local craftsmen selling traditional Romanian ornaments and the smell of cozonac filling the air."

• How do Romanians traditionally celebrate Christmas and New Year?

  Christmas in Romania blends Orthodox traditions with regional customs. Local experiences include joining carol singers in villages like Viscri participating in traditional pig feasts in rural areas and attending midnight services at historic churches. The New Year brings the "Plugusorul" tradition where locals share prosperity wishes. Holiday meals feature prominently at establishments like Hotel Bella Muzica in Brasov where guests can try sarmale and cozonac. As one TourRadar traveler shared: "Experiencing a traditional Romanian Christmas dinner with locals in Sibiel village was the highlight of our winter tour."

• What are the typical Christmas and New Year celebrations I can experience on a Romania winter tour?

  Winter tours in Romania offer access to the bustling Bucharest Christmas Market traditional caroling in medieval towns and New Year's celebrations at sites like Bran Castle. Local guesthouses such as Ramona Guesthouse in Sibiel village serve traditional holiday feasts featuring sarmale and cozonac. The season brings snow-covered landscapes in the Carpathians and decorated medieval town centers creating a festive environment throughout the region.

• How are the accommodation options during the holiday season in Romania?

  Romania's holiday accommodations range from local guesthouses to upscale hotels. The Grand Hotel Belvedere in Brasov provides mountain views while village stays at places like Cretuca Pension in Botiza offer authentic holiday experiences with traditional meals. As one TourRadar traveler shared: "Staying at the Hotel Republique in Sibiu during Christmas was magical - the historic building was beautifully decorated and the staff made the holiday extra special with traditional celebrations."

• Are Christmas markets and shops open during the holiday season?

  December brings vibrant market activity to Romania's cities. The popular Sibiu Christmas Market in Grand Square operates from late November into January while markets in Brasov and Bucharest maintain regular hours throughout the season. A TourRadar traveler mentioned: "The Christmas market in Brasov's Council Square was magical - filled with local crafts traditional foods and the smell of mulled wine. Even on Christmas Day there were vendors selling holiday treats and gifts."