Bucovina, a quiet corner of Romania, has been named the world's most underrated travel destination for 2027 in a new ranking by Time Out. The publication's latest list of 41 destinations puts the region top, praising its ancient forests, wildflower meadows and tiny mountain towns.
What makes Bucovina special
Located on the northern slopes of the eastern Carpathian mountains, Bucovina also marks the start of Romania's Via Transilvanica pilgrimage route. Carved stone waymarkers guide hikers along the 870-mile (1,400km) route. Time Out describes Bucovina as the heartland of Romanian egg decorating, a folk art tradition famous in the region and the village of Ciocănești.
The region is known for its intricately decorated monasteries dating back hundreds of years, including painted churches and monasteries that form part of UNESCO World Heritage sites. The name Bucovina translates from Slavic into English as "country of beeches" after its rolling wooded hills.
Other highlights and how to get there
Other highlights include Suceava Fortress, Cacica Salt Mine, the mountain resort town of Vatra Dornei, and traditional villages with celebrations showcasing local music, dance and crafts. According to the Romanian Friend travel site, Bucovina's elevated location means it can get very cold in winter and see heavy snowfall, making it a recommended escape from summer heat.
Spring is a busy period when visitors arrive for Orthodox Easter celebrations at the painted monasteries. Summer is recommended for hiking Bucovina's trails, while winter is described as the "perfect season" to try the region's spa resorts. Suceava is the main entry point, reachable by car from Bucharest in about nine hours, or by bus or train in about seven or eight hours, according to Romanian Friend.
Flights and accommodation
Flights from the UK to Suceava with Wizz Air start from around £60, with departures from London Luton Airport. Suceava Ştefan cel Mare Airport is near the town centre and offers a shuttle service for transfers. Top hotel picks from Booking.com include the Hotel Grand Royal and Gold Georg Palace Hotel in Chernivtsi as well as Hotel Sonnenhof and Mandachi Hotel & Spa in Suceava, with prices ranging from £34 to £80 for two adults per night.
Top B&B picks include D&D Relax Spa Bucovina and Comoara Rarăului in Câmpulung Moldovenesc as well as Sim House in Gura Humorului, with prices ranging from £35 up to £100 per night. Romanian Friend warns that restaurant options are limited or non-existent in Bucovina's villages and advises travellers to choose accommodation with half-board so you don't go hungry.
