The trains of Romania in 9 days

Traveling by train through Romania offers a unique glimpse into the country’s diverse landscapes, centuries-old railways, and even some of Europe’s last remaining forest and mining trains. This 9-day tour, organized by Maramures Tours, promises an immersive experience that combines stunning scenic routes with visits to railway museums and iconic transportation sites. It’s a perfect choice for rail enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone craving a deep dive into Romania’s transportation heritage.

What caught our attention most is how the tour balances spectacular train journeys with cultural sightseeing, creating a well-rounded adventure. The chance to sleep overnight on a sleeper train adds a layer of authenticity and comfort, making the experience feel like stepping back in time. However, because it involves several long train rides and some specialized equipment (like narrow-gauge lines), it might not be ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those prone to motion sickness. Still, if you love the idea of tracing Romania’s railway evolution while enjoying its scenic beauty, this tour could be a perfect fit.

This experience is best suited for travelers who appreciate authentic railway experiences, enjoy scenic journeys, and want to discover Romania beyond the usual tourist spots. It’s ideal for those comfortable with a compact, organized schedule that packs in a good amount of diverse sights, all wrapped in the charm of rail travel.

Key Points

• Unique Rail Routes: Ride Romania’s most scenic and historic train lines, including the Oravia-Anina, Bumbeti-Livezeni, and Salva-Vieu routes.
• Europe’s Last Forest and Mining Trains: Experience the thrill of riding the last remaining forest and mineral trains still in operation in Europe.
• Variety of Rail Gauges: See three different types of railway gauges—standard, broad, and narrow—highlighting Romania’s complex rail history.
• Cultural and Historic Visits: Stop at railway museums, the medieval town of Sibiu, Pele Castle, and other local attractions.
• Overnight Experience: Sleep in a sleeper train, adding charm and practicality to the journey.
• Limited Group Size: Enjoy a personalized experience with a small group of just 8 travelers, guided by knowledgeable English and French-speaking guides.

Starting Point and First Day: Cluj-Napoca to Oravia-Anina

The journey kicks off in Cluj-Napoca, where you’ll meet your guide and fellow travelers at Avram Iancu Square. From there, the adventure begins with the Oravia-Anina train, often called Romania’s Semmering for its breathtaking mountain views and challenging routes. This route is renowned for its scenic beauty and engineering marvels, making it a standout early highlight. Many reviewers mention how the train “feels like a living museum,” with historic carriages and stunning vistas.

You’ll also visit the Reia train museum, which showcases vintage locomotives and railway memorabilia, providing context on Romania’s railway development. This stop is particularly appreciated by history buffs who love to see preserved equipment and learn stories behind the rails. The combination of scenic ride and museum visit sets the tone for the trip’s blend of natural beauty and heritage.

Day Two: Bumbeti-Livezeni and Sibiu Locomotive Collection

On the second day, you’ll traverse the Bumbeti-Livezeni line, another scenic route that reveals Romania’s lush landscapes and rural charm. The Sibiu locomotives collection is a treasure trove for train enthusiasts, offering a look at various vintage engines and railway artifacts. Several reviews highlight how the collection is extensive and well-curated, giving visitors a tangible sense of Romanian railway history.

Expect to see a variety of locomotives, from steam to diesel, and learn about their roles in shaping regional commerce. The quiet charm of Sibiu’s old town, with its medieval architecture, provides an excellent backdrop to these rail explorations, making this day a lovely mix of scenic views and culture.

Day Three: Sibiu and Cornel Mocnia

Sibiu isn’t just about trains; it’s also a captivating medieval city. The day includes some free time to explore its cobblestone streets, churches, and architecture. For train lovers, the highlight is witnessing Cornel Mocnia, a narrow-gauge line undergoing restoration. Comments from travelers mention how exciting it is to see efforts to bring back this historic line, offering hope for future operational heritage routes.

This day balances sightseeing with railway restoration insights, offering a behind-the-scenes look at how Romania preserves its rail history. It’s a reminder of the ongoing efforts to keep these old lines alive and relevant.

Day Four: Fieni-Pietroia and Pele Castle

The Fieni-Pietroia narrow-gauge diesel limestone carrier is another unique experience, demonstrating Romania’s mining heritage. Travelers report that riding this line feels like stepping into an industrial past, with rugged landscapes and the rhythmic sound of diesel engines. Visiting Pele Castle, a fairy-tale fortress nestled in the mountains, provides a striking contrast—an opportunity to relax and soak in some local history and architecture.

This day underscores the importance of railways in Romania’s industrial development and highlights how these lines supported local economies in the past.

Day Five: Brasov and the Night Train to Maramureș

A day exploring Brasov allows a break from train-focused activities, giving time to enjoy its medieval charm—from the Black Church to the ancient town walls. Then, the highlight is taking the night train to Maramureș, an experience many reviewers find both practical and atmospheric. Sleeping on a train creates a sense of adventure, and several mention how the smooth ride and comfortable sleeper cars make it surprisingly restful.

Days Six and Seven: Salva-Vieu Route and Vaser Valley

The Salva-Vieu route offers one of Romania’s most picturesque train journeys, winding through mountains and lush valleys. Travelers often comment on the breathtaking scenery and how the train’s slow pace allows for plenty of photo stops and quiet reflection.

On day seven, you’ll have the opportunity to ride the Vaser Valley narrow-gauge line, often called the “Vaser Forest Railway”. The route is spectacular, especially when riding the forest carrier train, which traverses dense woods and rugged terrain. Some catch a glimpse of the locomotive depot, witnessing the machinery used to sustain these operational heritage lines. A reviewer mentioned, “The forest train gave us a real sense of Romania’s untouched natural beauty and its reliance on traditional logging methods.”

Day Eight: Moldova and Border Railway Operations

This day offers a fascinating look at Moldova’s Mocnia narrow-gauge steam train and the border station at Dorneti, where you’ll observe the crossing of broad-gauge Ukrainian freight trains. Reviewers appreciated how this mix of industrial and border traffic added a layer of complexity and authenticity to the experience. The painted monastery visited nearby is the perfect peaceful break after a day of railway watching.

Day Nine: Final Cultural Stop and Return

The tour concludes with a visit to the Dej train museum and depot, which many describe as “little known but well worth the visit”. It provides a last glance at Romania’s railway past before heading back to Cluj-Napoca. The entire nine days have woven together scenic journeys, historic insights, and cultural stops, delivering a well-rounded Romanian travel experience.

The value of this tour lies in its comprehensive approach: not only do you get to ride some of Europe’s last forest and mining trains, but you also see a variety of gauges, visit key museums, and enjoy scenic routes that reveal Romania’s natural beauty. The inclusion of a sleeping berth on a night train adds both convenience and adventure, making it easier to cover long distances comfortably.

While the tour costs $2,402 per person, many travelers feel this covers a lot of ground—train tickets, entrance fees, hotel pickups, and guided insights—making it a good deal for those interested in rail history and scenic travel. Plus, the small group size (limited to 8) ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

Practical considerations include the need for comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking around stations and towns, and a tolerance for long train rides and potentially uneven terrain. The tour isn’t suited for wheelchair users or those who are sensitive to motion sickness, but it’s perfect for those who love exploring by rail and enjoy uncovering hidden corners of a country.

This 9-day train tour of Romania is a journey into the heart of the country’s railway heritage. It offers a blend of scenic beauty, historic trains, and cultural stops, all woven into a manageable and well-organized itinerary. Travelers who love trains, history, and nature will find this tour both fascinating and satisfying.

If you’re looking to experience Romania beyond its castles and medieval towns, and want to see how railways have shaped its landscape and communities, this tour hits the mark. The inclusion of Europe’s last forest and mining trains ensures a rare opportunity to witness living history—an experience that many travelers find both educational and inspiring.

While it’s more suited to those with a keen interest in railways and outdoor scenery, the overall value, unique routes, and personalized approach make this a memorable adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned train enthusiast or an adventurous traveler eager for a different perspective on Romania, this tour offers a detailed and authentic way to explore the country from the rails up.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
No, the tour involves walking around stations and towns and riding on trains that might have uneven surfaces or limited accessibility. It’s better suited for travelers who are comfortable with mobility and walking.

Are the train journeys comfortable?
Yes, the tour includes sleeper trains and regular passenger trains that are generally comfortable for most travelers. The sleeper train experience adds a nostalgic charm and a practical way to cover long distances overnight.

Do I need to bring any special gear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll be walking around stations, museums, and towns. It’s also good to have layers of clothing for varying weather conditions and a camera for scenic views.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers all transportation fees, hotel pickups and drop-offs, train tickets, entrance fees to museums and attractions, and the guidance of experienced guides speaking English and French.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your travel dates shift or plans change unexpectedly.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. Many of the routes are renowned for their stunning scenery, with opportunities to capture mountain landscapes, vintage trains, and charming towns.

This detailed 9-day journey through Romania’s railways offers a rare glimpse into the country’s rich transportation heritage while immersing you in its natural beauty and historic sites. Perfect for train lovers and curious explorers alike, it promises an authentic and memorable experience.