In July 2024, Via Transilvanica was included in the exclusive top 100 of TIME magazine, titled “World’s Greatest Places to Visit in 2024”. The annual ranking brings together spectacular destinations to visit from all over the world.
The selection focuses on places that offer unique experiences and tourism innovations and that contribute to the development of sustainable tourism.
The article about Via Transilvanica was written by Romanian journalist Monica Suma, who has an impressive portfolio of articles and international collaborations.
The story, a read of about 2 minutes, captures the essence of the Via Transilvanica project, its impact on local communities, and its international recognition.
Why was Via Transilvanica included in TIME’s top 100 “World’s Greatest Places to Visit in 2024”?
Via Transilvanica was praised by the magazine TIME for its authenticity and cultural diversity, sustainable tourism, innovative character, and opportunities for adventure and exploration.
The article captures the essence of this trail, unique in the world, sparks the curiosity of active travelers, and invites them to explore:
General description of the trail. Via Transilvanica (Romania) is an 882-mile (1,420 km) trail, opened in October 2022, that crosses the country diagonally, from Putna Monastery to Drobeta-Turnu Severin.
Goal and impact of “The Road That Unites.” The project, initiated by the NGO Tășuleasa Social, aims to revitalize more than 400 rural communities affected by depopulation and economic hardship.
The experience and unique features of the trail. Visitors can stay in locals’ homes, parish houses, or inns and can enjoy traditional home-cooked meals.
The trail is marked by carved milestones, creating one of the largest open-air sculpture exhibitions in the world. Some stand in notable places, such as Alba Carolina Citadel and the village of Biertan.
Recognition and awards. Via Transilvanica crosses ten counties and seven historical regions and passes by 12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and it has been honored by Europa Nostra with two European Heritage Awards: one for citizens’ engagement and awareness-raising, and the Public Choice Award.
Reaction to and impact of the recognition
Recognition from a world-renowned publication such as TIME positions Via Transilvanica as one of the most attractive destinations in the world for 2024, alongside other top destinations from around the globe: the Sanxingdui Museum (China), La Maison Rabelais (France), Marie Selby Botanical Gardens (USA), the Höfe Trail (Austria), Iberá Provincial Reserve in Corrientes Province (Argentina), and many more.
The inclusion of the Via Transilvanica trail in the ranking validates the efforts made to promote Romania.
This can contribute significantly to raising Romania’s international profile, attracting more tourists and investors interested in developing similar or complementary projects.
Until now, Romania has been known mainly for tourist attractions such as Bran Castle, the Transfăgărășan, or the Danube Delta.
Via Transilvanica brings a new tourism offering to the forefront, for those interested in adventure and outdoor experiences, focused on hiking, nature, and cultural tourism.
Through this project, Romania not only asserts its tourism potential but also offers a platform for promoting local communities, traditions, and unspoiled natural landscapes. In the future, continued recognition and the development of similar projects could turn the country into an increasingly sought-after destination worldwide.
