Best Places for Digital Nomads to Live in Romania
Romania, a hidden gem in Eastern Europe, is becoming an increasingly popular destination for digital nomads. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and affordable cost of living, it offers an ideal balance of work and play. Here are seven cities and towns in Romania that digital nomads should consider for their next move.
Bucharest
As the capital city, Bucharest boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, numerous co-working spaces, and a variety of cultural attractions. The historic Old Town is a must-visit, with its colorful buildings and lively music venues. The Village Museum showcases traditional Romanian architecture and way of life. Cost of Living: A furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around €300 per month. One week's worth of groceries for one person is around €30. A moderate dinner at a restaurant with one drink costs around €15.
Where to Stay & Eat: The Lipscani and Old Town districts offer numerous rentals and are close to many restaurants and bars popular with young people.
Cluj-Napoca
Cluj-Napoca, the "Heart of Transylvania," is known for its dynamic student population and affordable cost of living. The city's historic center features beautiful architecture, museums, and parks. The Botanical Park and Botanical Museum is a must-visit, with over 10,000 plant species. Cost of Living: A furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around €250 per month. One week's worth of groceries for one person is around €25. A moderate dinner at a restaurant with one drink costs around €10.
Where to Stay & Eat: The Central and Avram Iancu neighborhoods offer numerous rentals and are close to many restaurants and bars.
Sibiu
Sibiu, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a charming Old Town filled with historic buildings, beautiful parks, and peaceful squares. The Brukenthal Museum is a must-visit, housing an impressive collection of European art. Cost of Living: A furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around €200 per month. One week's worth of groceries for one person is around €20. A moderate dinner at a restaurant with one drink costs around €12.
Where to Stay & Eat: The Historic Center and Huet Square neighborhoods offer numerous rentals and are close to many restaurants and cafes.
Timisoara
Timisoara, the "City of Roses," is known for its stunning gardens, vibrant arts scene, and affordable cost of living. The Memorial Museum of the 1989 Revolution is a must-visit, showcasing the events that led to the fall of communism in Romania. Cost of Living: A furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around €200 per month. One week's worth of groceries for one person is around €20. A moderate dinner at a restaurant with one drink costs around €12.
Where to Stay & Eat: The Fabric and Elisabeta neighborhoods offer numerous rentals and are close to many restaurants and cafes.
Iasi
Iasi, the "The Cultural Capital of Romania," offers a rich history, beautiful parks, and a thriving student population. The Museum of the Moldavian Region is a must-visit, with exhibits on the region's history and culture. Cost of Living: A furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around €250 per month. One week's worth of groceries for one person is around €25. A moderate dinner at a restaurant with one drink costs around €15.
Where to Stay & Eat: The Palas and Monument neighborhoods offer numerous rentals and are close to many restaurants and cafes.
Craiova
Craiova, a charming city in southern Romania, offers a peaceful atmosphere, beautiful parks, and a rich history. The Craiova Museum of Art and Old Town are must-visits, showcasing the city's cultural heritage. Cost of Living: A furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around €200 per month. One week's worth of groceries for one person is around €20. A moderate dinner at a restaurant with one drink costs around €10.
Where to Stay & Eat: The Central and Cetatuia neighborhoods offer numerous rentals and are close to many restaurants and cafes.
Brasov
Brasov, nestled in the Carpathian Mountains, offers stunning landscapes, historic sites, and a vibrant arts scene. The Black Church and the historic center are must-visits, showcasing the city's rich history and culture. Cost of Living: A furnished apartment in a safe, central neighborhood costs around €300 per month. One week's worth of groceries for one person is around €30. A moderate dinner at a restaurant with one drink costs around €15.
Where to Stay & Eat: The Historic Center and Council Square neighborhoods offer numerous rentals and are close to many restaurants and cafes.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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