In the context of the rapidly evolving global economy and significant shifts in Tourism preferences, Romania faces a unique opportunity to leverage rural tourism as an engine for economic growth. While infrastructure remains a sensitive factor in the development of national tourism, it is less critical in rural tourism. On the contrary, isolated villages, picturesque landscapes, and the authenticity of Romanian traditions become the main attractions for both local and international tourists. This form of tourism has the potential to position Romania among the top destinations for those seeking authentic experiences.
Infrastructure – a secondary aspect
Romania is home to numerous isolated villages where the influence of modern civilization is minimal, offering tourists authentic and unique experiences. The lack of highways or fast routes is not necessarily a disadvantage but rather contributes to preserving the traditional atmosphere. Thus, these villages become a refuge away from the urban hustle. According to a European study, over 35% of international tourists who choose Romania for vacations are drawn to the country’s picturesque villages.
Rural tourism – a “living museum” without seasonality
One of the great advantages of rural tourism is that it is not affected by seasonality, which can influence other forms of tourism. Regardless of the season, the villages and communes in Romania offer a diversity of activities specific to each period of the year. Spring brings agricultural and gardening activities, summer offers the opportunity to pick berries and mushrooms, autumn is dedicated to the preparation of must and preserves for the winter, and the cold season brings Christmas traditions, which delight tourists from the city. In 2023, data from the National Institute of Statistics indicated a 12% increase in the number of foreign tourists who opted for holidays in Romanian rural areas. This demonstrates the potential of rural tourism to generate stable income for small entrepreneurs throughout the year.
The profile of the rural tourist: from the urban corporatist to the nostalgic of childhood
According to a study carried out by representatives of the EconomieRurala.ro platform, “There is no single profile of the rural tourist. More and more corporates are choosing to combine remote work with escapades in nature, to benefit from the peace and beauty of rustic landscapes. Another important category of tourists is made up of people between the ages of 25-45, who, in the absence of relatives in the village, want to relive the moments of their childhood spent with their grandparents. In 2022, 22% of foreign tourists who visited Romania opted for rural experiences, being fascinated by local traditions and customs.
“Whether it’s about preparing the broth or participating in the mowing, tourists are attracted by the opportunity to experience the daily life of Romanian villages”, says Raluca Dumitrana, founder of the rural entrepreneurship project, EconomieRurala.ro.
Minimum investment, maximum impact
According to research carried out by EconomieRurala.ro: ,, Another major advantage of rural tourism is the fact that it does not require major investments to become profitable. A small plot of land and a house over 100 years old, carefully restored and adapted to modern needs, can become a top destination for those looking for authenticity. In 2023, approximately 1,500 old houses in rural areas were converted into agritourism guesthouses or small holiday homes, which represented an increase of 8% compared to the previous year.” “Agritourism pensions in Romania recorded an average occupancy rate of 72% in 2023. This proves that rural tourism offers high profitability, even without significant investments in infrastructure or marketing,” states Raluca Dumitrana, founder of the EconomieRurala platform. ro.
The dishes prepared by housewives in rural areas are also very popular, especially since the ingredients are fresh, healthy, and seasonal. Old recipes are sacredly preserved in old notebooks, and the delight is even greater for tourists who enjoy local recipes for the first time. Rural tourism represents a real chance for the revitalization of Romania’s economy. This form of tourism has the ability to attract tourists throughout the year, offering authentic experiences in a unique natural and traditional setting. With a well-organized tourism infrastructure and the international promotion of rural beauties and traditions, rural tourism can become a central pillar of the national economy, supporting the sustainable development of local communities.