🇷🇴 Romania Language Guide — Phrases & Communication Tips

The official language spoken in Romania is Romanian, a Romance language that is widely used in all aspects of life, from government and education to media and daily conversations.

Language Overview

Romanian is the predominant language spoken in Romania, with over 90% of the population using it as their first language. The language has several regional dialects, including the Transylvanian, Oltenian, and Muntenian dialects, each with their own unique characteristics and pronunciation. In addition to Romanian, there are several minority languages spoken in the country, including Hungarian, German, and Romani, which are recognized and protected by the government. English is becoming increasingly popular, particularly among the younger population and those in the tourism industry, but it is still not as widely spoken as in other European countries.

Despite the growing popularity of English, it is still not universally understood, and visitors may encounter some difficulties when communicating with locals, especially outside of major cities like Bucharest. However, many Romanians, particularly in the service industry, are making an effort to learn English and other foreign languages to cater to the growing number of tourists. Overall, the linguistic landscape of Romania is diverse and complex, with a mix of traditional and modern languages, dialects, and cultural influences.

Romania's language policy is designed to promote the use of Romanian as the official language, while also protecting the rights of minority language speakers. The government has implemented various measures to support language education and cultural preservation, including bilingual signage and language classes for minority language speakers. As a result, visitors to Romania can expect to hear a variety of languages spoken, from Romanian and Hungarian to German and English, reflecting the country's rich cultural heritage and linguistic diversity.

Essential Phrases

Numbers & Bargaining

Communication Tips

• Be respectful and polite when interacting with locals, using formal titles and last names until you are explicitly invited to use first names.
• Learn a few basic phrases in Romanian, such as "salut" (hello) and "mulțumesc" (thank you), to show appreciation for the culture and people.
• Avoid using gestures that may be considered rude or offensive, such as pointing with the index finger or making loud noises in public.
• Be prepared to haggle when shopping at markets or from street vendors, as this is a common practice in Romania.
• Use body language to show respect and attention, such as maintaining eye contact and using open and approachable posture.
• Be patient and flexible when communicating with locals, as language barriers can sometimes lead to misunderstandings.
• Learn about Romanian customs and traditions to avoid unintentionally offending someone or causing a misunderstanding.
• Use visual aids such as maps or pictures to help communicate when language barriers are significant.

Translation Tools & Resources

• Download a translation app such as Google Translate or iTranslate to help with language barriers.
• Carry a phrasebook or dictionary to help with basic phrases and vocabulary.
• Take a language class or use online resources to learn basic Romanian phrases and grammar before traveling to Romania.
• Look for bilingual signage and menus in restaurants and shops to help with navigation and communication.
• Ask your hotel or tour operator for recommendations on how to communicate with locals and navigate language barriers.