Romania offers a unique blend of medieval charm, natural beauty, and affordability, making it an increasingly popular destination for travelers from the UK. Here’s an in-depth look at the cost of living in Romania to help you plan your visit.
A in depth look about the cost of living in Romania
Accommodation
•Hotels: A mid-range hotel room costs about £40–£65 per night, while budget options start around £25. Luxurious stays can go up to £100 per night.
•Short-term Rentals: Airbnb-style apartments in cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, or Brașov average £20–£50 per night depending on location and amenities.
•Monthly Rent: For those staying longer, furnished apartments in central areas cost approximately £500–£600 for 85 m², while suburban options drop to £300–£400 .
Food and Drink
Romanian cuisine is hearty, affordable, and perfect for adventurous palates. Here’s what you can expect:
•Restaurants: A meal at a casual restaurant costs around £7–£9. A three-course dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant averages £30.
•Groceries: Essential items such as bread (£0.60), milk (£1.30 per litre), and chicken breast (£2.70 for 500g) are significantly cheaper than in the UK. A kilogram of apples costs less than £1 .
•Local Delicacies: Don’t miss trying sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls) or mici (grilled sausages), available at street stalls for as little as £3 per portion .
•Drinks: A domestic beer in a bar costs about £2, while a bottle of wine in stores is around £6 .
Transportation
Getting around Romania is both convenient and affordable:
•Public Transport: Buses, trams, and metros in major cities cost £0.30–£0.50 per trip, while a monthly pass is approximately £18.
•Taxis and Ride-Sharing: A short ride within a city typically costs £4–£8. Uber operates in cities like Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca.
•Car Rentals: Renting a car averages £35–£45 per day. Fuel prices hover around £1.45 per liter .
Attractions and Activities
Romania offers a wealth of attractions:
•Historical Sites: Entry to landmarks like Bran Castle (often associated with Dracula) costs about £10.
•Nature Activities: Guided hiking tours in the Carpathian Mountains are priced at £40–£50. Ski passes in resorts like Poiana Brașov start at £30 per day .
•Entertainment: A movie ticket is around £5, while theatre tickets range from £12–£60 depending on seat quality .
Utilities and Internet
Utilities for a one-bedroom apartment average £70–£120 per month, depending on season and usage. High-speed internet is affordable, costing about £8 per month .
Shopping
•Clothing: A pair of Levi’s jeans costs around £57, while a summer dress from high-street brands like Zara averages £25–£30.
•Local Products: Souvenirs like handmade crafts and local wines are budget-friendly .
Comparison with the UK
Romania is about 61% cheaper than the UK overall:
•Housing is 73% cheaper.
•Food and groceries are 39% more affordable.
•Transport costs are significantly lower, particularly for public transport and taxis .
Tips for Budgeting
For a comfortable trip, budget around £50–£75 per day for food, transport, and activities. This figure can increase if you opt for luxury dining or guided tours.
Romania’s affordability, combined with its rich history and picturesque landscapes, make it an excellent choice for UK travelers looking for value without compromising on experiences. Plan your visit to enjoy this Eastern European gem!
Sources: expatistan.com
Learn more about Romania on our blog here.
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