France vs Romania

France and Romania may seem distinctly different. However, they have several similarities between them. For starters, their capital cities, Paris and Bucharest respectively, have an Arc de Triumph and both these countries are noted for their rich cultural and artistic heritage.

A holiday in either of these countries offers experiences that are unique. While the French countryside and idyllic lifestyle is enriching for many travellers, the buzz of its bigger cities like Paris are a big draw for the urban holidaymaker. Romania’s natural beauty is unmatched with about a third of the country comprising the Carpathian Mountains and the other third encompassing hills and plateaus rich with orchards and vineyards. The Danube River also flows through the country. Along with nature’s bounty, Romania’s deep rooted historical influences have put it prominently on the tourist map.

Here’s a comparison of France and Romania so you can decide where to take your next holiday in Europe.

France

Paris: Fondly known as the ‘city of love’, plan a holiday to Paris and if you’re not already in love, you definitely will be by the time you leave. A destination for lovebirds, Paris uncovers surprises every step of the way. From the iconic Eiffel Tower to the world’s most visited art museum, the Louvre, other notable landmarks in the city include the Arc de Triomphe de l'Étoile, the Paris Opera and Champs-Élysées.  Take a stroll down the picturesque Canal St-Martin or wander through the city’s gardens including Jardines des Palntes, a botanical garden.

Nice: The heart, soul and capital of the gorgeous French Riviera, Nice lies in thee Côte d'Azur area on the southeast coast of France on the Mediterranean Sea. It’s no surprise then that the city is often called ‘Nice la Belle’, which means Nice the Beautiful. If you can tear yourself from lounging on Nice’s many beaches or strolling on the promenades along the shoreline, art lovers may be interested to explore the Musée Matisse dedicated to the famous French artist, the historic Basilique-Cathédrale Sainte-Marie et Sainte-Réparate de Nice and if time permits, catch a ballet performance, opera or classical concert at the Opéra de Nice.   

How To Get There

Major international airlines including Air France, Air India, Jet Airways and Etihad Airways operate flights from India to Paris. Check for available flights from your city here.

Romania

Bucharest: With its wide tree-line boulevards and Belle Époque architecture, the capital city of Romania came to be known as Little Paris in the 1900s. In spite of being ravaged by wars, the city is home to several educational institutes, cultural venues and recreational areas. While in the city, visit Arcul de Triumf built to honor the bravery of Romanian soldiers who fought in World War I, stroll down Calea Victoriei, a charming street with architectural and historical masterpieces like the Cantacuzino Palace, Revolution Square and the National History Museum. Don’t miss a trip to University Square, the city’s most popular meeting place and where the University of Bucharest's School of Architecture, the Bucharest National Theatre, the neoclassical Coltea Hospital and the Sutu Palace, now home to the Bucharest History Museum are to be found.

Alba Lulia: ​Situated on the Mureș River in the Transylvania region of Romania, Alba Lulia had great significance in ancient Romanian history. Rediscover its gems on your trip by visiting  Alba Iulia citadel built using he Vauban military architectural system where ramparts made of brick and quarry stones form a seven-point star shape with seven bastions guarded by six monumental gates. Also visit the 16th century Princely Palace and the Roman Catholic Cathedral with its Gothic style architecture and early Renaissance interiors.

How To Get There

Major international airlines including Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa and Air France operate flights from India to Bucharest. Check for available flights from your city here.
 

Destination	Paris, France	Bucharest, Romania
Hotels (centrally located)	Rs. 8,337 per night (Standard room at Fertel Etoile Hotel) Rs. 11,675 per night (Standard room at Hotel Saint Augustin Elysees) Rs. 14,385 (Classic room at Normandy Hotel Paris)	Rs. 4,613 (Standard room at Capital Plaza Hotel Bucharest) Rs. 6,637 (Standard room at Marshal Garden Hotel) Rs. 8,472 (Standard room at Radisson Blu Hotel Bucharest on Calea Victoriei)
Meals (breakfast, lunch & dinner without alcohol)	Rs. 4,500 per day	Rs. 2,000 per day
Local Transportation (public bus)	Rs. 140 per ticket	Rs. 25 per ticket
Miscellaneous	Rs. 3,800 per day	Rs. 800 per day

*All prices are approximate and subject to change.

France – where every sight of is stunning, where romantics, art lovers and die-hard foodies can regale while on holiday. There is very little not to like about a holidaying in France. The impression many people have of Romania is that it’s remote and rustic. It may be true that it’s not for those looking to take a typical glitzy city holiday; however, Romania has great depth and character to it that makes in a destination for the new-age traveller looking for both an urban and scenic holiday.