January 12, 2026 — Romania has once again earned recognition from the U.S. Department of State as one of the world’s safest travel destinations for international travelers, reinforcing Eastern Europe’s growing appeal as a secure and attractive region for tourism and cultural exploration.
In the latest update to its global Travel Advisory System, the U.S. government retained Romania’s “Level 1” rating — the lowest risk category — meaning that visitors need only exercise normal precautions while traveling there. This designation places Romania among a select group of European destinations deemed relatively safe for U.S. citizens, alongside nations such as Bulgaria, Poland, Slovenia, Finland, Greece, and Portugal.
What “Level 1” Really Means
The U.S. Department of State’s travel advisory framework ranks destinations on a scale from Level 1 to Level 4 based on safety and security indicators — including crime, terrorism threats, civil unrest, and health risks. “Level 1” indicates minimal additional risk beyond the normal safety precautions travelers take anywhere abroad.
Official guidance for Romania emphasizes that while the country is stable and generally secure, travelers should stay aware of everyday risks such as minor street crime, and follow basic travel safety practices.
Safety Compared to Western Europe
Interestingly, several traditional Western European destinations — including France, Germany, Italy, and Spain — are currently classified at Level 2 (“Exercise Increased Caution”) due to ongoing concerns about terrorism threats and crowded urban attractions being potential targets.
This contrast underscores a broader shift in traveler perception: Eastern and Central Europe, long overshadowed by Western capitals, is now being recognized for providing secure yet less congested travel experiences.
Beyond Safety: Affordability and Cultural Appeal
Romania’s tourism strengths extend beyond safety. Recent travel cost rankings reveal that Romanian cities are among Europe’s most budget-friendly destinations for 2026. Cluj-Napoca has been ranked as one of the top five cheapest European cities to visit, while Bucharest appears in the top ten — offering rich cultural experiences without the premium price tag of major Western metropolises.
Travelers can look forward to everything from historic medieval towns and vibrant arts scenes to scenic natural landscapes — all supported by positive safety assessments and moderate travel costs.
Practical Travel Considerations
While Romania’s overall advisory level suggests a safe travel environment, official U.S. guidance also highlights specific local considerations for visitors, including:
Seismic activity: Romania has a moderate earthquake risk, particularly around Bucharest.
Minor crime: Pickpocketing and petty theft occur primarily in tourist zones, typical of most urban destinations.
General precautions: Enrolling in the U.S. Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is recommended so travelers can receive updates from the U.S. Embassy while abroad.
