Romania hides extraordinary natural phenomena that you can visit without spending a fortune. One such place is the Berce Mud Volcanoes, located in the Buzău region. This is a geological phenomenon where earth gases break through layers of clay and water to form miniature volcanic cones, from which cold mud bubbles continuously. The area, known locally as 'Pâclele,' resembles a lunar landscape and is one of the few such places in Europe.

Entrance to the reserve costs just a dozen lei (about $15), making it one of the cheapest natural attractions in the country. Locals tell a legend according to which the volcanoes were formed when a giant tried to dig a well, but released underground gases instead of water. The best time to visit is in spring or autumn, when the mud has the right consistency and the temperatures are bearable. Be sure to bring appropriate footwear - the terrain can sometimes be soggy even on designated paths!

It's worth knowing that local residents attribute healing properties to the mud, especially for skin and rheumatic ailments. Some tourists even choose to take mud baths, although this is not officially allowed. The area of the mud volcanoes is part of a larger geopark that aspires to be listed by UNESCO.

A completely different but equally fascinating site is Salina Turda, a former salt mine converted into an underground museum and recreation center. More than 2,000 years old, this mine, which was exploited extensively from Roman times until 1932, now offers one of the most extraordinary tourist experiences in Europe.

Descending into the mine is a journey through time and space. The huge Sala Rudolf mining chamber, 42 meters high, today houses an underground lake with the possibility of renting boats (for about 20 lei). Another chamber, called Sala Terezia, houses a Ferris wheel, minigolf and a basketball court. All this 120 meters underground, surrounded by salt walls and crystals.

An entrance ticket to Salina Turda costs about 50 lei (£50) for adults, with discounts available for students and children. That's not much, considering that you can even spend a whole day in the mine. The air, which is saturated with iodine and trace elements, has healing properties, especially for people with respiratory problems. The temperature inside remains constant at around 10-12°C all year round, so even in the heat of summer it's a good idea to take warmer clothing with you.

Local legend has it that in the deepest corridors of the mine, inaccessible to tourists, treasures were hidden during the world wars. Some guides also mention the ghosts of miners, which are said to be found in remote corners of the mine. Regardless of the veracity of these tales, Salina Turda offers an unforgettable experience for the price of lunch in an average Warsaw restaurant.

Romania is a country where history is intertwined with legend, and the most famous figure is undoubtedly Vlad the Impaler, the historical ruler of Wallachia who became the inspiration for the literary Count Dracula. His dark fame attracts tourists to two remarkable castles that can be visited without straining the budget.

Poenari Citadel, often overlooked by mass tourism, is Dracula's true fortress. Unlike the commercial Bran Castle, advertised as 'Dracula's castle' (though historically it has little in common with it), the Poenari Citadel was the actual home of Vlad the Impaler. Located at the top of a steep hill on the famous Transfăgărășan road, it requires visitors to climb 1,480 stairs, which is quite a challenge in itself.

Admission to the citadel costs just 30 lei (about $30), making it one of the more affordable historical attractions in Romania. The fortress walls offer breathtaking views of the Argeș River valley and the surrounding mountains. According to local legend, Vlad the Impaler's wife threw herself from the castle walls into the river, preferring death to falling into the hands of the advancing Turks. It is said that on moonless nights her desperate cries can be heard.

The citadel, though largely ruined (partly by the 1888 earthquake), retains a raw, authentic character. With its lack of commercial amenities and relative difficulty of access, the site is visited mainly by true enthusiasts of history and legends, creating a unique atmosphere away from the crowds.

Hunedoara Castle, one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Europe, has a completely different character. This Gothic-Renaissance fortress, also known as the Castle of the Corvins, was the seat of John Hunyadi, regent of Hungary and father of King Matthias Corvinus. Contrary to popular myth, Vlad the Impaler probably never lived here, although according to some sources he may have been imprisoned in the castle's dungeons.

An entrance ticket costs about 45 lei (£45), which is an excellent investment given the architectural and historical richness of the site. The castle impresses with its towers, drawbridges, courtyards and richly decorated chambers. Particularly impressive is the Knights' Hall with its original Gothic vaulting.

There are many legends associated with the castle, including the tale of a well in the courtyard, which is said to have been dug by Turkish captives. They were promised freedom upon completion of their work, but their word was not kept. They are said to have carved an inscription on the stone casing of the well: 'You have water, but no heart.' Another legend tells of mysterious tunnels under the castle, leading to distant places in the mountains.

For history buffs, the National Museum of Romanian History in Bucharest is invaluable. Housed in the neoclassical building of the former Central Post Office, it offers a fascinating journey through the country's history from the Paleolithic period to modern times.

An entrance ticket costs about 25 lei (£25), making the museum one of the cheapest attractions in the capital. The facility's greatest treasure is the Historical Treasury, where you can admire replicas of the famous Treasure of Pietroasele (the originals were stolen during World War II and have never been found) and the authentic Kloštorskaya Kura, a 14th century gold ritual vessel decorated with precious stones.

Of particular interest is an exhibition devoted to the culture of the Dacians, an ancient people who inhabited the area of present-day Romania before the Roman conquest. Here you can see reconstructions of Dacian fortresses, tools, weapons and jewelry. The museum also displays a copy of Trajan's Column, the original of which stands in Rome and depicts the conquest of Dacia by the Romans.

Romania is a true paradise for frugal travelers, offering extraordinary experiences at prices much lower than in Western Europe or even Poland. To make the most of your budget when visiting the attractions described above, it's a good idea to follow a few proven tips.

When planning your Romania itinerary, keep in mind the distances between attractions. The Berce mud volcanoes are located in the Buzău region, about 150 km northeast of Bucharest. Salina Turda is located in Transylvania, near the city of Cluj-Napoca. On the other hand, Hunedoara Castle and Poenari Citadel are separated by about 200 km of winding mountain roads. The National Museum of Romanian History is located in the center of Bucharest. Optimal route planning can significantly reduce transportation costs.

If you are traveling by car, be sure to purchase an electronic vignette (rovinieta), which is mandatory on Romanian roads. It can be purchased at border crossings, gas stations or online. The cost is about 3 euros for 7 days for a passenger car - a small investment that will help you avoid hefty fines.

Comparing the described attractions in terms of value for money, the cheapest option is the Mud Volcanoes in Berka (about $15), offering a unique natural experience. Slightly more expensive is the National Museum of Romanian History (£25), which provides a wealth of exhibits and historical knowledge. Poenari Citadel (£30) requires physical exertion, but rewards with authenticity and beautiful views. Hunedoara Castle (£45) impresses with its architecture and state of preservation, while Salina Turda (£50) offers the most diverse attractions, combining historical and recreational values.

When it comes to accommodations, Romania offers a wide range of options at affordable prices. In smaller towns, you can find guest rooms (casa de oaspeți) starting at 100-150 zloty per night for two people, often with breakfast. In larger cities like Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca, prices are higher, but still competitive compared to Western Europe.

It's worth knowing that many guesthouses do not accept credit cards, so it's a good idea to carry cash. ATMs are widely available in cities, but can be a problem in remote rural areas. The exchange rate is usually more favorable at ATMs than at exchange offices, especially those located in tourist areas.

As for food, local eateries (called 'cantina' or 'local') offer traditional Romanian dishes at prices much lower than tourist-oriented restaurants. Try 'mici' (grilled meat rolls), 'sarmale' (stuffed cabbage rolls in grape leaves) or 'mamaliga' (a corn dish similar to polenta). Dinner at such a place is an expense of about 20-30 zlotys per person.

For even greater savings, you can stock up at local grocery stores or markets. Romanian bread, cheese and cold cuts are of excellent quality and much cheaper than in Poland. A bottle of good Romanian wine costs about 15-25 zlotys in the store.

While visiting the described attractions, it is worth noting the hidden gems that often escape the attention of the average tourist. Near the Mud Volcanoes in Berka is the 'Focul Viu' (Living Fire) - natural eternal flames emerging from rock fissures, powered by natural gas. Admission is free, and the view is especially impressive after dark.

Nearby Salina Turda is the lesser-known but equally fascinating Praid salt mine, where, in addition to sightseeing, you can take advantage of the healing properties of the microclimate in the underground sanatorium. The entrance ticket is cheaper than in Turda (about 30 lei), and the crowds are much smaller.

Near Hunedoara Castle, the ruins of the Dacian-Roman fortress of Sarmizegetusa Regia, the former capital of Dacia, are worth a visit. Admission costs a symbolic 5 lei, and the site has great historical and spiritual significance for Romanians.

Romania is a country where you can experience authentic hospitality without straining your wallet. Locals are usually friendly toward tourists and are willing to share stories about their region. Even a basic knowledge of a few Romanian phrases (good morning - 'bună ziua', thank you - 'mulțumesc', please - 'vă rog') can open many doors and hearts.