Romania, one of the most affordable countries in Europe, is being hailed as the next top destination for walkers.
Following its recent inclusion in the Schengen area, interest in this eastern European gem has surged. With its warm summer weather, lush countryside and affordability compared to neighbouring countries, Romania has a lot to offer.
This week, a specific region of the country was featured on Intrepid Travel’s Not Hot List, which showcases ten under-the-radar global destinations.
Romania’s entry this year is Via Transilvanica, often referred to as the ‘Camino of the East’. This 1,400 km long-distance walking trail is helping to establish Romania as Europe’s upcoming premier walking destination.
The trail, initiated by Intrepid Foundation partner Tășuleasa Social Association and known as ‘the road that unites’, is purposefully designed to connect travellers with lesser-known communities and distribute the economic benefits of tourism more evenly, reports the Mirror.
The route takes explorers through quaint villages, ancient forests, and 12 UNESCO World Heritage sites. As visitor numbers are on the rise, now is the ideal time for Romania to consider its approach to sustainable tourism.
Romania attracted 7.1 million overnight international visitors in 2024.
The introduction of 170 km of fresh pathways opening in 2026 represents the initial stage of an ambitious 20-year development scheme to extend the Via Transilvanica trail beyond its current boundaries, expanding its coverage throughout Romania.
Enhanced journey times, courtesy of Romania’s 2025 Schengen entry that eliminated border controls with neighbouring European nations, plus fresh flight connections from Birmingham to Sibiu have ushered in a transformative travel era for the area.
Anna Székely, vice-president of the Tășuleasa Social Association, explained: “This slow-travel route isn’t just scenic, it’s built to revive depopulated villages, support local enterprise and give visitors a rare chance to experience traditions that feel untouched by time.
“For us, hospitality means creating genuine meeting points between hikers and locals – places where shared meals, old stories and the rhythm of rural life are as much a part of the journey as the miles walked.”
Intrepid’s fresh 11-day Hiking in Romania via Transilvanica Trail adventure offers travellers early access to some of the recently incorporated sections of the route. They explain: “Hike to spiritual sites such as the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sucevita and Moldovita monasteries and explore Bran Castle, linked to the Dracula legend. Enjoy the occasional homemade dinner and local wine with residents living in small villages along the trail and learn about each community’s culture.”
You can find out more on intrepidtravel.com.