Is Weed Legal in Romania? 2025 Guide for Travelers

Romania, with its medieval castles, lively cities, and stunning landscapes, has become a growing travel destination in Eastern Europe. But for those curious about cannabis, one question often arises: Is Weed Legal in Romania? 2025 Guide for Travelers. Understanding the laws is crucial before lighting up or even thinking about buying weed in Romania.

What is the Current Legal Status of Weed in Romania? 

Romania takes a strict stance on cannabis compared to many European neighbors. While some countries in Europe have embraced decriminalization or medical use, Romania has kept cannabis under tight regulation.

2.1. Possession, Cultivation, and Consumption: What’s Allowed in Romania?

In short—none of these are legal for recreational purposes. Possession of small amounts is considered a criminal offense. Even smoking weed in Romania, whether privately or publicly, is illegal. Cultivation, no matter the scale, is also prohibited. Unlike countries with more relaxed tolerance policies, Romania does not make exceptions for “personal use.”

2.2. THC (Marijuana) in Romania

Cannabis with THC is classified as a high-risk drug under Romanian law. This places it in the same category as other controlled substances, making the consequences severe. While some European countries differentiate between soft and hard drugs, Romania does not extend this leniency. That means whether you’re caught with hashish or marijuana, penalties remain serious.

For anyone considering smoking weed in Romania or buying weed in Romania, the safest advice is simple: don’t.

3. A Brief History of Cannabis Laws in Romania 

Romania’s approach to cannabis has gone through different phases, shaped by international treaties and domestic politics.

3.1. Start of Prohibition (1928)

Romania first criminalized cannabis in 1928, aligning with global anti-drug movements.

3.2. Medical Cannabis Legalization (2013)

In 2013, Romania became one of the first Eastern European nations to approve limited medical cannabis use, but only for certain conditions like epilepsy, cancer pain, or multiple sclerosis.

3.3. Recent Developments and Advocacy

Although discussions about broader reform occasionally surface, no significant progress has been made toward legalization or decriminalization. Advocacy groups remain small, and the government continues to stress a prohibition-first approach.

4. Is Medical Marijuana Legal in Romania: Legal Provisions and Accessibility? 

4.1. Legal Status of Medical Marijuana

Medical cannabis is technically legal but extremely restricted. Patients can only access cannabis-derived medicines like Sativex, prescribed in limited cases.

4.2. Access and Restrictions

Access remains difficult. Prescriptions are rare, costs are high, and not all pharmacies carry cannabis-based medicines. Romania does not permit home cultivation or dispensaries.

4.3. Recent Legislative Attempts

Recent debates in Parliament discussed easing restrictions, but no major reforms have passed. For now, medical marijuana in Romania exists mostly in theory, not practice.

5. Is Recreational Marijuana Legal in Romania? 

The answer is a firm no. Recreational cannabis use remains illegal in all forms.

Those caught with small amounts face criminal charges, not just fines. Unlike in countries with relaxed possession laws, Romania enforces penalties even for minor infractions. Smoking weed in Romania—whether at a party, festival, or even in private—can lead to police involvement.

For tourists, the risk is not worth it. While Romania is known for warm hospitality, the authorities show zero tolerance toward drug-related offenses.

6. Is It Legal To Grow Cannabis in Romania? 

No, cultivation of cannabis in Romania is illegal—even for personal use or medical reasons. Growing hemp for industrial purposes is allowed, but it requires government approval and strict THC testing. Anyone caught cultivating cannabis plants without authorization risks the same criminal penalties as possession or trafficking.

7. What Are the Penalties for Weed Possession in Romania? 

7.1. Penalties for Possession

Possession of small amounts (for personal use) can lead to 2–5 years in prison. Larger quantities or repeat offenses can increase the sentence.

7.2. Difference Between Possession and Trafficking

Trafficking, defined as selling or distributing cannabis, carries 3–10 years in prison. Even sharing a joint could technically fall under distribution laws.

7.3. Recent Developments

While some judges lean toward reduced sentences for first-time offenders, penalties remain harsh. Unlike countries such as Slovenia or Greece (see marijuana in Greece

8. What About CBD in Romania? 

8.1. What is CBD?

CBD (cannabidiol) is a compound derived from hemp, known for relaxation and wellness benefits without the “high” of THC. Many travelers turn to CBD as a safer, legal substitute.

8.2. Is CBD Legal in Romania?

Yes—CBD is legal if it contains less than 0.2% THC, in line with EU laws. Anything stronger is considered cannabis and illegal.

8.3. What CBD Products Are Allowed?

• CBD oils and tinctures are the most common, available online and in specialty stores.
  
• Topicals and creams for muscle pain and skincare are widely used.
  
• Hemp teas and supplements are legal and popular among wellness enthusiasts.
  
• CBD edibles like gummies exist but face stricter import rules.
  
• Vapes and e-liquids are available, but police sometimes inspect them for THC.
  

8.4. Medical Cannabis Status

Romania makes a legal distinction: CBD is a supplement, while medical cannabis products like Sativex require a prescription. Don’t confuse the two—buying CBD oil at a shop is not the same as having access to medical marijuana.

8.5. Recreational Cannabis

Even though CBD is tolerated, it’s not seen as a recreational product in Romania. Marketing must be framed around wellness, not fun.

8.6. Import and Sale

Importing CBD is legal if sourced within the EU. Customs may seize shipments from non-EU countries, especially if documentation is unclear.

8.7. Where to Buy CBD in Romania

In big cities like Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca, you’ll find health shops selling hemp and cannabis Romania products. Online retailers also deliver nationwide, provided THC levels are compliant.

Tip: Always keep receipts when buying CBD—this helps prove legality if questioned.

11. Tips for Travelers Visiting Romania 

11.1. Stay Safe and Be Smart

Romania’s police enforce drug laws strictly. Avoid street dealers entirely—many sell fake or dangerous products, and some are undercover stings.

11.2. Plan Your Trip Time Wisely

The best times to visit are spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October) when the weather is mild, festivals are frequent, and tourist sites are less crowded.

11.3. Use Local Language Basics

Romanians appreciate effort. Key phrases:

• Mulțumesc = thank you
  
• Bună ziua = good day
  
• Unde este gara? = where is the train station?
  

11.4. Transportation Tips

• Trains are reliable between big cities like Bucharest, Cluj, and Brașov.
  
• Buses and minibuses connect smaller towns.
  
• In cities, ride-hailing apps like Bolt or Uber are safer than random taxis.
  

11.5. Enjoy Nature and Culture

Romania is more than Dracula myths. Hike the Carpathian Mountains, wander Sibiu’s old town, or take a boat ride through the Danube Delta.

11.6. Money and Payment

The local currency is the Romanian Leu (RON). Cards are accepted in most urban spots, but rural villages often require cash. ATMs are common, but avoid shady exchange offices.

11.7. What to Eat and Drink

Romanian cuisine is hearty and flavorful. Try:

• Sarmale (cabbage rolls with meat)
  
• Mici (grilled sausages)
  
• Ciorbă de burtă (tripe soup)
  For drinks, local wines and țuică (plum brandy) are staples.
  

Extra Traveler Tip: Romania is generally safe, but petty theft in crowded tourist areas exists—keep valuables secure.

12. Cannabis Tourism in Romania: What Travelers Need to Know 

12.1. Is Cannabis Legal in Romania?

Cannabis remains illegal—Romania has no equivalent of Amsterdam-style coffee shops.

12.2. What Does This Mean for Travelers?

Travelers should not expect open cannabis culture. Buying weed in Romania from strangers risks scams, police trouble, and health hazards.

12.3. Cannabis Tourism Activities

Although direct cannabis tourism doesn’t exist, Romania does offer related experiences:

• Hemp festivals and fairs occasionally highlight industrial hemp products.
  
• Wellness retreats may use CBD oils for spa treatments.
  
• Local markets sometimes sell hemp seeds, teas, and oils as part of traditional herbal remedies.
  

12.4. What Travelers Need to Know

If cannabis is a major part of your travel experience, Romania is not the place to indulge. Instead, shift focus to unique cultural and natural attractions:

• Explore Bran Castle, linked to Dracula’s legend.
  
• Join music festivals like Electric Castle or Untold.
  
• Take road trips through Transfăgărășan Highway, one of the world’s most scenic drives.
  

For those set on combining travel with cannabis, consider neighboring countries. Slovenia (see cannabis in Kranjska Gora