cluj napoca tourist map

Map of Cluj-Napoca — Best attractions, restaurants, and transportation info

What’s on this map.

We’ve made the ultimate tourist map of Cluj-Napoca, Romania for travelers! Check out Cluj-Napoca’s top things to do, attractions, restaurants, and major transportation hubs all in one interactive map.

Visiting Cluj-Napoca? See our Cluj-Napoca Trip Planner.

How to use the map

Use this interactive map to plan your trip before and while in Cluj-Napoca. Learn about each place by clicking it on the map or read more in the article below. Here’s more ways to perfect your trip using our Cluj-Napoca map:

• Explore the best restaurants, shopping, and things to do in Cluj-Napoca by categories
• Get directions in Google Maps to each place
• Export all places to save to your Google Maps
• Plan your travels by turning on metro and bus lines
• Create a Wanderlog trip plan (link to create a trip plan for the city) that keep all the places on the map in your phone
• Print a physical map to bring it on your trip

Top 17 attractions in Cluj-Napoca

Ethnographic park romulus vuia, central park simion bărnuțiu.

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Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

"Matthias Rex" Monument

Cetățuia park, alexandru borza botanical garden.

Track your travel spending and split costs with friends

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"Lucian Blaga" National Theatre

Vivo cluj-napoca, ethnographical museum of transylvania, parc iulius mall, central cemetery, "dormition of the mother of god" metropolitan cathedral, iulius mall, hoia forest, cluj napoca.

Don’t forget to pack anything

Stay organized with a to-do list, packing list, shopping list, any kind of list.

Museum Square

Reformed church, top 10 restaurants in cluj-napoca.

Samsara Foodhouse - Cluj restaurant plant-based

Via restaurant, klausen burger, boema​ house, tokyo japanese restaurant, london brothers cluj, transportation in cluj-napoca, nearby airports, cluj "avram iancu" international airport, highways and major roads.

• E60 National Road
• A3 Transylvania Motorway
• DN1/E576 Road
• DN75/E58 Road
• DJ103G Road
• DJ107K Road
• DJ109D Road
• DJ109T Road

Popular road trips from Cluj-Napoca

What's the weather like in cluj-napoca.

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Cluj-Napoca for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

• Weather in Cluj-Napoca in January
• Weather in Cluj-Napoca in February
• Weather in Cluj-Napoca in March
• Weather in Cluj-Napoca in April
• Weather in Cluj-Napoca in May
• Weather in Cluj-Napoca in June
• Weather in Cluj-Napoca in July
• Weather in Cluj-Napoca in August
• Weather in Cluj-Napoca in September
• Weather in Cluj-Napoca in October
• Weather in Cluj-Napoca in November
• Weather in Cluj-Napoca in December

All road trips from Cluj-Napoca

• Cluj-Napoca to Budapest drive
• Cluj-Napoca to Vienna drive
• Cluj-Napoca to Prague drive
• Cluj-Napoca to Berlin drive
• Cluj-Napoca to Venice drive
• Cluj-Napoca to Istanbul drive
• Cluj-Napoca to Krakow drive
• Cluj-Napoca to Munich drive
• Cluj-Napoca to Athens drive
• Cluj-Napoca to Bucharest drive
• Cluj-Napoca to Warsaw drive
• Cluj-Napoca to Dubrovnik drive
• Cluj-Napoca to Naples drive
• Cluj-Napoca to Vatican City drive
• Cluj-Napoca to Bratislava drive
• Cluj-Napoca to Salzburg drive
• Cluj-Napoca to Verona drive
• Cluj-Napoca to Belgrade drive
• Cluj-Napoca to Bologna drive
• Cluj-Napoca to Kyiv drive
• Cluj-Napoca to Brasov drive
• Cluj-Napoca to Marne-la-Vallee drive
• Cluj-Napoca to Zagreb drive
• Cluj-Napoca to Sibiu drive
• Cluj-Napoca to Wroclaw drive
• Cluj-Napoca to Lviv drive
• Cluj-Napoca to Ljubljana drive
• Cluj-Napoca to Dresden drive
• Cluj-Napoca to Sofia drive
• Cluj-Napoca to Trieste drive

Explore nearby places

• Cluj-Napoca
• Casele Micesti
• Moldovenesti
• Zau de Campie
• Baia de Aries
• Valea Manastirii
• Rosia Montana

All related maps of Cluj-Napoca

• Map of Floresti
• Map of Casele Micesti
• Map of Apahida
• Map of Ciurila
• Map of Gilau
• Map of Baisoara
• Map of Bontida
• Map of Turda
• Map of Iclod
• Map of Moldovenesti
• Map of Rimetea
• Map of Marisel
• Map of Gherla
• Map of Coltesti
• Map of Sub Piatra
• Map of Zau de Campie
• Map of Manastirea
• Map of Baia de Aries
• Map of Aiud
• Map of Valea Manastirii
• Map of Lupsa
• Map of Gilgau
• Map of Campeni
• Map of Jibou
• Map of Albac
• Map of Zalau
• Map of Rosia Montana
• Map of Ciucea

Cluj-Napoca throughout the year

• Cluj-Napoca in January
• Cluj-Napoca in February
• Cluj-Napoca in March
• Cluj-Napoca in April
• Cluj-Napoca in May
• Cluj-Napoca in June
• Cluj-Napoca in July
• Cluj-Napoca in August
• Cluj-Napoca in September
• Cluj-Napoca in October
• Cluj-Napoca in November
• Cluj-Napoca in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Cluj-Napoca?

Get inspired for your trip to Cluj-Napoca with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Cluj-Napoca Itinerary
• 2-Day Cluj-Napoca Itinerary
• 3-Day Cluj-Napoca Itinerary
• 4-Day Cluj-Napoca Itinerary
• 5-Day Cluj-Napoca Itinerary

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35+ Best Things to Do in Cluj-Napoca & Places to Visit

Cluj-Napoca (or simply Cluj) is Romania's second-largest city with a vibrant personality: young-hearted and always up to something, a major cultural and university hub full of creative energy and good vibes!

With a mix of medieval landmarks, historical sites, architectural jewels, trendy urban hotspots, cobblestone streets, and numerous events, Cluj is a laid-back city where people live unrushed - despite its fantastic growth since Romania joined the European Union in 2007.

La Cluj - as locals say in Cluj - everything is slower.

It's also one of the most visited cities by tourists since it's ideally located in Central Romania which makes it a good base to explore the famous regions of Transylvania, Maramures, and Bucovina. And you'll find lots of low-cost flights from all over Europe to get here!

• check our practical travel guide on how to visit Romania for the first time to make planning your trip easier

In this Cluj-Napoca travel guide we listed over 35 of the best things to do in Cluj, popular attractions for day trips in Cluj county, local favorites as well as lesser known sights and activities you should consider.

Table of contents

What makes Cluj Napoca worth visiting?

How to discover the best places to visit in cluj napoca, 1. start exploring cluj from avram iancu square, 2. admire the architectural mix of cluj-napoca, 3. take a stroll on the main street, eroilor boulevard, 4. visit union square and its landmarks, 5. enjoy nature in central park, 6. discover the interwar architecture of cluj and enjoy somes river, 7. admire the city from cetatuia hill, thirsty for culture, 8. taste the rural life at the romulus vuia ethnographic park, 9. check romanian aesthetics at the ethnographic museum of transylvania, 10. visit the national museum of transylvanian history, 11. admire the art at the cluj national art museum, 12. discover the oldest building in cluj: matthias corvinus house, 13. take your time to visit small art galleries, 14. go to the artisan fares to meet local craftsmen, 15. visit cluj during cultural events, 16. visit one of oldest still-in-service churches: the franciscan church, 17. admire byzantine architecture at the assumption cathedral, 18. go to a concert at the reformed church, 19. visit the charming face-to-face greek-catholic cathedral, 20. smell the beauty at the botanical garden, day trips from cluj-napoca to visit transylvania, 21. see the #1 underground attraction in the country: turda salt mine, 22. visit the most authentic medieval castle in transylvania: corvin castle, 23. make a stop at the alba iulia citadel, 24. visit unesco-listed sites: sighisoara citadel and fortified saxon villages, 25. go deeper, and discover traditional regions of romania, 26. go on a hike in the apuseni mountains, 27. visit a traditional region in apuseni mts, 28. admire a natural reserve: turda gorges, 29. go to the charming village of rimetea and hike to piatra secuiului, 30. enter a space of mysteries at the hoia baciu forest, 31. visit the popular banffy castle, 32. go horse riding in the hills of transylvania, where to go out in cluj-napoca. best restaurants in cluj, 33. enjoy a tasty blend of fancy and classic flavours, 34. taste traditional romanian food, 35. discover the specialty coffee culture in cluj, 36. go out for drinks in museum square, 36. mingle with students on piezisa street, how to get to cluj-napoca, public transportation in cluj-napoca. from airport to city center, where to stay in cluj-napoca.

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Why do locals all over Romania talk about the friendly people and easy-going vibe of Cluj-Napoca?

Simple: it's a bustling university city with a creative spirit, a down-to-earth attitude about work, and a 'chill' vibe - in contrast with the hustle and bustle, 'always in a rush' people in Bucharest.

Locals here are very friendly and it will be easy to interact with them – on a walk through the city, in a coffee shop serving specialty Ethiopian single origin or at one of the famous Romanian festivals taking place in Cluj like the massive Untold festival, the alternative Electric Castle or Transyilvania International Film Festival where some of the best Romanian movies have premiered.

There are many things to do in Cluj because the city is the unofficial capital of Transylvania. Historically, Cluj has always been a cultural and political center in Romania.

Romanians, Hungarians, Germans, and other minorities, with all their customs, faiths, ways of life, and typical dishes have peacefully coexisted here for centuries. So learning about local culture is one of the best things you can do here.

Then there's also Central Park, a hotspot for local life, the Botanical Garden, the best in Romania, and Cetatuia Hill with its great view of the city, to satisfy your needs for 'nature in the city.'

The best way to do some sightseeing and explore Cluj is on foot because the city's landmarks and best places to see are located close to each other in the city centre. In fact, the city’s layout is a huge East-West axis so I suggest you start your walk either from Central University Library or Avram Iancu Square.

If you decide to start exploring Cluj starting from Avram Iancu Square, you will notice the Orthodox Cathedral which you can visit, and the statue of Avram Iancu, a major figure in the history of Transylvania.

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Continue your walking tour on the wide and busy Eroilor Boulevard the main street in Cluj where locals love to go for a walk and hang out. You'll also pass by some of the city's oldest buildings, like the Old Town Hall. Many of them date back to the 16th century when Cluj experienced an economic and cultural awakening and they are top attractions for tourists due to their unique architecture.

• Local tip: while here, take your pick from some of the most popular cafes and bistros which make for a great place to experience the city's local life: Olivo, Koffer, DOT, A la Tarte, Meron or Eggcetera

If you are into architecture then you'll notice how the style changed from constructions that survived from the Renaissance period to the more elegant 19th-century buildings found in the city center and around major squares. Great spots for those passionate about aesthetics, history, and photography!

Continue your walking tour until you reach Union Square (Piața Unirii), a lovely place characterised by 18th century and 19th-century buildings, with its massive St. Michael's Church, an impressive Gothic landmark and one of Cluj's most popular tourist attractions, and the imposing Matthias Corvinus monument in the center.

Union Square is a place full of history. Here, you can also find the Continental Hotel, the place that housed German troops during the Second World War.

Lots of local events and festivals take place in the main square but if not - enjoy the open space and take a look around: no one here is in a rush, locals smile, go slow, and like to grab their coffee and enjoy it in the sun.

And so should you!

• Local tip: notice the details of the imposing statue of Matthias Corvinus, a famous Hungarian king born in Cluj Napoca (then Kolozsvár) in the 15th century.

The history of Hungary and Romania is intertwined beyond administrative borders or nationalist rhetoric. If you want to learn more about the history of Cluj-Napoca and Transylvania, one of our guides has a degree in history and is eager to show you around and tell you more:

Short Walk & Talk about Cluj-Napoca with a Local

Start from: Cluj-Napoca

Next on your walk should be Central Park (Parcul Central) where you'll see people laying on the grass, hanging hammocks and enjoying life. Go for a walk around Chios Lake too. If there are no local fares in Union Square, maybe they're here, especially during the Summer months.

The park is closed during the Untold festival and I generally don't recommend you visit Cluj Napoca during that time since it's super crowded and expensive.

• Pro tip: at the end of Central Park towards Cluj Arena you'll find local stalls that sell typical Romanian street food: langos (fried dough topped with sour cream, cheese, and garlic sauce), kurtos kalac (sweet bread with topping), cotton candy (a staple of Romanian childhood) and machine-made instant icecream, my favorite :)

Across the road, near the Mill Canal, you'll find lots of well-preserved houses, with beautiful architecture, built between the Two World Wars. If you continue your walk you'll eventually reach the Somes River promenade, another local life hotspot.

If you want a great view over this beautiful city you should cross the river and go up to Cetatuia Hill the perfect place for a panoramic view of the entire city and surrounding hills! You can get there on a short hike going through Cetatuia Park but also by grabbing a taxi. And sunsets here are spectacular and you can enjoy them with a drink at Pergola Cafe.

Then you're in the right place. Thanks to its rich multicultural and humanistic history, Cluj-Napoca was always a place renowned for its culture, and interest in humanities and arts. You'll often visit places including restaurants and cafes where you'll get a sense of how important culture is for one of Romania's biggest cities.

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The Romulus Vuia Ethnographic Park is the first open-air museum in the country where you will get a taste of rural Transylvania: traditional houses, rural technical installations and wooden churches, and lots of green spaces where you can even chill or have a picnic (closed November - April).

The Ethnographic Museum of Transylvania is the in-door brother of the above, where you'll discover clothing, household and decorative items, lots of pictures, and literature from the past times.

The National Museum of Transylvanian History has a focus on history and archeology, with objects and artefacts dating back to our ancestors, the Dacians. This is one of the best museums in Romania to visit if you want to understand more about the complex history of Transylvania.

Cluj is also known for its artsy vibe where, besides classical arts, contemporary and modernist artists are also featured. Also, photo exhibitions are regularly on display in the main squares or even in cafes. Here is a list of the best places for art lovers.

Cluj-Napoca Art Museum, located next to the University of Arts, hosts various art exhibitions all year long. Explore a diverse collection of over 12,000 paintings, sculptures, graphic arts, and decorative pieces spanning from the 16th to the 21st centuries.

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The Matthias Corvinus House (Casa Matias) stands as the birthplace of Matthias Corvinus, the King of Hungary, and ranks among Cluj-Napoca's oldest structures.

Built in the 15th century with Gothic influences, this historic house has served various roles throughout its existence, evolving from a residence to a prison, hospital, and museum. From Union Square go for a walk towards Museum Square and you can't miss it.

Cluj also has its list of small art galleries, such as Iaga Contemporary Art, which hosts about six exhibitions a year. Other small galleries you can visit are Plan B, Bazis Gallery, or Lateral ArtSpace. These galleries exclusively focus on contemporary art, providing art enthusiasts with distinctive perspectives and immersive experiences.

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Cluj hosts many cultural events, such as the Transylvania International Film Festival (TIFF), Jazz in the Park and others. On the official tourism website of Cluj-Napoca, Visit Cluj , you can find a list of events scheduled for the next period. And since we can't separate Transylvanian culture from its multi-faith background, there are some religious sights worth visiting besides the Orthodox Cathedral and Saint Michael's Church. All of them are located in the city center.

Built between 1260 and 1290, the Franciscan Church stands on the grounds of an earlier Catholic church, destroyed during the Tatar invasions in 1241. Nestled in Museum Square, formerly known as Little Square to distinguish it from Market Square, this location revealed remnants of the Roman city during archaeological excavations. Inside the church, intricate sculptures and an ornate altarpiece grace the interior. The building is classified as a historical monument.

The Assumption Cathedral, also known as the Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral, is a great example of Byzantine architecture adapted to 20th-century construction exigences. Completed in 1933, it stands as the largest Romanian Orthodox church in Cluj.

Its architectural marvel unfolds in the Romanian Brâncovenesc style, seamlessly blending Renaissance and Byzantine influences. Nestled in Avram Iancu Square, it shares the cultural landscape with the Cluj-Napoca National Theater and the Avram Iancu Statue.

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The Face-to-face Greek-Catholic Cathedral stands as one of the most beautiful churches in Cluj, and it is my favorite, since I got married here :)

Constructed in the Baroque style, the church is adorned in yellow and features a tall tower, reaching a height of 28 meters, which imparts an ancient charm along Eroilor Boulevard.

You should also consider visiting the Botanical Garden in Cluj-Napoca, the largest and, according to some, most beautiful in Romania. Besides the Rosarium in front of the building, a rose garden with many species, it has many unique sights like the Japanese garden and the Roman garden, both exquisite, which make this an interesting place to visit.

Springtime is the best time to visit it since over 40.000 tulips are on display, making it one of the biggest tourist attractions in Cluj. Find out more about visiting hours on the official website .

Thanks to its location and well-connected public transport, the city is a very good base for the many things to do in Transylvania and for visiting places harder to get to from Bucharest or other parts of the country. So going on short trips to discover Romania's main attractions is one of the best things you can do while in Cluj!

3-Day Transylvania Tour: Cities, Sights & Local Life

Turda Salt Mine is one of the best attractions you can visit near Cluj-Napoca

Undoubtedly the main attraction near Cluj-Napoca is Turda Salt Mine. Business Insider named Salina Turda as the #1 underground location to visit with beautiful scenery thanks to artfully placed lighting installations. And with a lot of activities for visitors, such as table tennis or mini golf.

Besides breathing salty air which is good for your lungs, there are some awesome things you can do down there too: imagine a 2,000-year-old mine dating back to Roman Empire times with caverns so huge an underground Ferris wheel could be installed! Or boat rides on an underground lake. Wait... what?

Turda Salt Mine Tours

Corvin Castle, the best preserved medieval castle in Eastern Europe

Corvin Castle , a 600-year old Gothic castle may not be the most famous castle in Transylvania. It's hard to compete with Bran Castle aka Dracula's Castle close to Brasov! But in our opinion, it's the most interesting and authentic medieval castle in Transylvania, with real stories and fascinating legends. Unlike Bran Castle (4h away), Corvin Castle can be easily visited on a day trip from Cluj-Napoca .

History Day Trip: Corvin Castle & Alba Iulia Citadel

On your way to Corvin Castle, you can stop at Alba Iulia Citadel . The spiritual capital of Romania where the Great Union of 1918 took place when Transylvania joined Wallachia and Moldova, this five-point citadel dating back to the Roman Empire is worth a short trip.

A typical Saxon village in Transylvania

Among the other most popular places for tourists to visit Transylvania are the famous Sighisoara Citadel and the Saxon villages with fortified churches all part UNESCO heritage. On a day trip to these sights, it will be easier to understand the complex Transylvanian history and culture, while admiring the beautiful views of the region, famous for its mellow hills and picturesque village life.

Tour of Transylvania's Countryside: Sighisoara Citadel & Fortified Villages

If you're interested in authentic Romanian culture and want to experience the traditional rural life for which our country is so famous for, then Cluj-Napoca is the perfect place to go on trips to discover the traditional regions of Maramures (N-W) or Bucovina (N-E).

Both are equally considered the most authentic and ethnographically representative regions of Romania. They're famous for their local crafts (wood caving, egg painting), and for their many customs and traditions kept alive by locals, including how they dress up in folk costumes to go to church on Sunday.

2 or 3 Days in Maramures: Wooden Churches, Traditions & Village Life

Besides the jaw-dropping sceneries and homegrown delicious food, each region has many tourist attractions spread across villages in the region. In Maramures you can visit the UNESCO Wooden Churches , while in Bucovina the famous UNESCO Painted Monasteries . Whatever you choose - both regions are fascinating and perfect for slow travel meaning you'll need min 2-3 full days for each one.

5-Day Complete Tour of Traditional Maramures & Bucovina

Amazing views in Apuseni Natural Park close to Cluj

One of our favorite things to do from Cluj-Napoca - that few people know about - is to go hiking in Transylvania. Our article will tell you more about Romania's huge and underrated outdoor potential.

Cluj Napoca is close to the Western Carpathian Mountains, locally known as the Apuseni Mountains. Generally considered as medium difficulty mountains, the highest peaks are Curcubata Mare at 1,849m and Vladeasa Peak at 1,836m which can be summited in a one-day hiking trip from Cluj with our experienced mountain guide.

1 or 2-day Hiking Tour from Cluj: Wild Trails in Apuseni Natural Park

Besides the numerous hiking trails for all difficulty and experience levels, there are lots of natural attractions too such as Scarisoara Ice Cave, Rusty Ravine, Bride's Veil Waterfall, White Cliffs (Pietrele Doamnei) and Scarita Belioara Reserve.

Hike to a Unique Natural Reserve in Apuseni Mountains

These can be seen on hiking day trips or multi-day trips that will also take you through picturesque villages. And there are over 150 caves most of which you can visit and some perfect for caving speleological exploration!

And in Apuseni Mountains specifically in Apuseni Natural Park there is another ethnographically representative region known as Țara Moților where locals live as they used to decades ago, undisturbed by modern civilisation. So besides hiking and visiting natural attractions, this is the best place to experience life in rural Transylvania authentically.

2 Day Hiking in Apuseni Natural Park: Culture & Local Life

Start from: Cluj-Napoca or Sibiu

Other popular natural attractions near Cluj are Turda Gorges (Cheile Turzii) a superb area that will close you off from civilisation with fresh air and lots of vegetation. A hiking trip in Turda Gorges to the top will last about 4h but you can also learn via ferrata with our specialist guide if you're up for it.

For a nature lover, this is the perfect place to be.

Another popular route - though more difficult - is Szekler's Stone (Piatra Secuiului) in the charming ethnic-Hungarian village of Rimetea. Towering and imposing, this hiking day trip will be rewarding for sure.

• Local tip: you may read about Tarnita Lake outside of Cluj; but other than private houses, there's no real infrastructure for tourists to enjoy the area - so I wouldn't recommend you bother going there.

The haunted forest of Romania: Hoia Baciu

Now time for something completely different - did you know there is a forest near Cluj-Napoca said to be haunted?

It's called Hoia Baciu after a shepherd disappeared here without a trace with his entire flock. It's also where UFO sightings were photographed 50 years ago, with strange readings recorded ever since. And the vegetation in the forest is... weird. Like, there's a perfectly round huge clearing where grass doesn't grow above a certain level. And, obviously, no one mows it!

A Night Tour of Haunted Hoia Baciu Forest

Start from: Cluj - Napoca

I know what you're thinking - hard to believe! Same for me until I went with our guide who is super passionate about this attraction on a tour in Hoia Baciu forest with special measuring equipment. I like mysteries and this is by far a unique thing to do and an unusual place in Cluj-Napoca!

Near Hoia Baciu Forest, you can also find the oldest human settlement near Cluj and the oldest in Transylvania, dating from the Neolithic Period, Gura Baciului.

Bánffy Castle, located in Bonţida near Cluj-Napoca, stands as an architectural marvel with influences spanning Renaissance, Baroque, Neoclassical, and Neogothic styles. Owned by the Hungarian Bánffy family, the castle has been repurposed, housing an Art Cafe since 2001, while the Trust has established an educational center in the Miklós building. Various parts of the castle, including the former chapel, stables, and main building, serve as venues for cultural events and programs.

In recent years, Banffy Castle has emerged as a host for music festivals, which turned it into a popular spot near Cluj. If you're thinking of going to Electric Castle , one of Romania's most popular events - don't think twice!

Taking place on the Banffy domain, this festival showcases a dynamic blend of electronic music and artists spanning various genres, such as electronic, punk-rock, alternative, D'n'B, trap, funky disco and more.

If you're a fan of the saddle - you'll love this experience! Close to Cluj one of our guides - passionate about horses - knows a family who breeds Huluc horses, an authentic Romanian mountain breed.

Back when Transylvania was under Austrian or Hungarian domination, Romanian outlaws on horseback called haiduci would be famous for their disruptive incursions on foreign officials.

So wether you want to learn more stories about them, or just explore picturesque hills and typical villages on horseback, you'll love this.

2-Day Horse Riding Trip in Transylvania

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Ok, back to normal! :)

After so much sightseeing in Cluj and on day trips, you're probably starving! The best places for that in Cluj-Napoca are Museum Square (Piata Muzeului), Union Square (though a little too touristy for our taste), and Potaissa Street. This is where you'll find the best restaurants in the city, with lots of bars, cafes, and inspiring terraces.

Blend in with locals and make some new friends. If you're looking for places to go out in Cluj-Napoca, try the fancy menu at Via Restaurant, reinterpreted traditional food at Zama, or delicious pasta at Tortelli. You can also try Casa Boema for Romanian tapas or Baracca for gourmet delicacies. Bulgakov and Casa TIFF are local favorites too.

If you're looking to try Romanian food beyond the typical sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), polenta with shepherd's cheese, papanasi (huge desert) and mititei most travel bloggers talk about - one of our guides is also a foodie.

He'll take you to the best places in Cluj to try authentic Romanian food, including a farmers' market to taste local produce and tell you what local specialties to try. We love these walk, talk & eat local experiences when visiting other cities around the world so we created one for Cluj too:

Cluj-Napoca Food Tour: Food Markets, Regional Dishes and Coffee Culture

Coffee lover? You're in for a treat! For almost a decade now, Cluj has been famous in the entire country for its specialty coffee culture. Popular places to try: Meron, Narcoffee, Olivo, Let’s Coffee, and Frasca - a small and cozy place that will make you feel at home and serve gentle low acid coffee .

• Pro tip: Romanians love good coffee and we wrote an article with the best coffee shops in Romania covering every major tourist city

Museum Square is a perfect place to end up for drinks after dinner. For good wines try Crush Wine Bar although most hip bars will serve the best Romanian wines. Try Londoner's Pub or Hemingway's for cocktails and other great things to surprise your taste buds.

Piezisa Street is full of bars, clubs, and street food eateries since there’s a large student campus nearby – so prepare for a long night of music, dancing, shots, and a great time! For proper clubbing, check out /Form Space and Euphoria Music Hall which usually have live concerts followed by DJ sets.

The best time to visit Cluj-Napoca is generally April - September when there are lots of events going on in the city. A city break of 4-5 days is enough especially if you leave 1-2 full days for day trips.

Cluj has Romania's second-largest airport which is very well connected to European cities, mostly with flights from Wizz Air. Check our guide on traveling to Romania for more info on that.

From Bucharest to Cluj-Napoca the best way is to catch an internal flight. By car it may take 7-8h and we don't recommend it (unless you break for one night in Brasov or Sibiu) because driving in Romania long distances is very tiring. There is an overnight train too which takes 10h.

Unfortunately, public transportation in Romania is not very well developed so take that into account when planning your trip.

From Cluj-Napoca International Airport to the city center or Old Town area there are 2 options:

• public bus line A1E that runs every 10 min daily or 20 min during weekends between 04:30 – 24:00; as you exit the arrivals building it will be on your right; it will take you to the city center in about 26 min and finish in Piata Mihai Viteazul; you can buy ticketss from the ticket machine in the airport;
• just outside the arrivals building you'll find the official taxis waiting, all safe and scam-free; you can even pay by card (just tell the driver before getting in); from Cluj airport to the city center it will cost about 10 Euro and take 15-25 min, depending on destination and traffic (for convenience and speed, this is what we recommend)

The best way to navigate Cluj-Napoca is by foot: the main landmarks and squares are all within walking distance. For anything else, take a taxi (Daniel, Nova, City) for 3,11 Lei/ km. You can also use the ride-hailing apps Uber or Bolt and pay cash or by card.

For more info on public transportation in Cluj-Napoca check the official website here. Bus and tram tickets cost 6 Lei for two rides but I doubt you'll need to use them. Renting public bikes is, unfortunately, not available for tourists (yet).

There are plenty of places to stay in Cluj around the Old Town area and main boulevards. Check on Booking.com or Airbnb to see options and you'll find everything from hostels to high-end hotels. Prices start as low as 20 Euro/ night.

Generally, I don't recommend you go further than Piata Operei or Parcul Central since you want to be within walking distance of the city center.

So - that's it! All my tips on how to visit Cluj-Napoca like a local with the best things to do in the city, must-see attractions, and day trips from here.

I hope it will inspire you to come over for a quick visit – we can even grab a drink in some of the spots I mentioned and I'll tell you more about the best things to do in Romania since I'm so passionate about my job!

Your Romanian Friend

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Cluj-Napoca Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

Cluj-Napoca (Cluj for short) is a lovely university town in Romania’s northeast. Located midway between Bucharest and Budapest , it’s a big stopping point for people traveling west from Hungary. Most people who visit Cluj do so as they pass in or out of Romania.

As one of the country’s biggest cities, there’s a lot to do here. The city dates back centuries, having first been settled by the Romans, abandoned, and then resettled in the Middle Ages. Due to its long history, there are tons of historical churches, museums, and ruins (especially on Cetatuia Hill) to visit. And, because of the university here, there are a lot of affordable restaurants and a very happening nightlife.

I’ve enjoyed all my visits here. While not as historic and medieval as many of Romania’s other cities, if you’re looking for a city with a lively atmosphere and good nightlife, this place is it!

This travel guide to Cluj can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit to this fun and hip city.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Cluj-Napoca

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Cluj-Napoca

1. See the Alexandru Borza Botanic Gardens

This massive botanical garden has rolling green hills, an observation tower, a rose garden, and even a Japanese garden. Founded in 1872, the garden is home to over 10,000 plants and covers 14 hectares (35 acres). There are greenhouses, ponds, and a variety of plants from around Romania and the world. There’s even a Roman Garden with archaeological remnants, including statues and sarcophagi, from the ancient Roman colony of Napoca. Admission is 15 RON per person (9 RON when the greenhouses are closed).

2. Walk through Union Square

The heart of the city is Union Square (Piata Unirii in Romanian). It’s one of the largest squares in the entire country and showcases the wide range of architectural styles in the town. The main buildings include Banffy Palace, St. Michael’s Church, the Pharmacy Museum, and Hotel Continental. It’s a great place to stroll and people-watch from one of the many benches throughout the square.

3. See St. Michael’s Church

This 15th-century Roman Catholic church dominates Piata Unirii. It is the second-largest Gothic church in the country and is considered the finest example of Gothic architecture. Completed in the 1440s, most of the building is still original, though the clock tower, which is the highest in the country (at 80 meters/262 feet high) was rebuilt in the 19th century. It’s free to enter.

4. Tour the Art Museum of Cluj-Napoca

This museum is housed in a beautiful 18th-century Baroque building and has 24 rooms to explore, with over 12,000 pieces in the collection. Most of the collection is focused on Romanian and European art from the 15th-20th centuries, but it is also home to some prized exhibits, including a church altar from the 16th century. It’s considered one of the most important museums in the country. Admission is 28 RON (or 16 RON for just the permanent exhibitions).

5. Climb Cetatuia Hill

Also known as fortress hill, this spot offers fantastic views of the city. The name refers to an 18th-century fortress (and prison) that was constructed here. There’s a restaurant at the top where you can enjoy some traditional food (at an inflated price) as you gaze over the city. It’s free to visit.

Other Things to See and Do in Cluj-Napoca

1. explore the museum of zoology.

This museum features hundreds of jarred and stuffed animal specimens. It has a rather dated, unkempt feel to it, which just makes the museum feel even more authentic and creepy. It’s not for the faint of heart (they have some unsettling specimens, such as a two-headed cow calf). The museum can be hard to find but it’s worth the effort as there are over 30,000 items here. Admission costs 8 RON.

2. Check out the Pharmaceutical Museum

The Museum of Pharmacy (often called the Hintz House) is home to Cluj’s first (and Romania’s fourth) apothecary. It originally opened in 1573 and has essentially been around ever since (it was briefly closed during the communist era). There are tons of interesting bottles filled with questionable potions (such as 18th-century aphrodisiacs and ground mummy dust). The museum only has three rooms but it illuminates what medicine was like in the Middle Ages and Renaissance (spoiler alert: it was grim). Admission is 6 RON. Note : The museum is currently closed for renovations.

3. Catch an opera

The Hungarian State Theatre & Opera is close to the river and hosts both plays and operas — many of which offer English subtitles. While the opera house was built in 1910, the Hungarian State Theatre actually dates to 1792. Tickets must be purchased in advance and usually cost around 40 RON per person. The National Theatre Lucian Blaga, one of the most famed theatrical institutions in the country, is another place to see a performance. They regularly have plays, musicals, and operas as well.

4. Shop at the central market

Located behind the Complex Commercial Mihai Viteazul shopping center, this market is where locals come for their fresh produce. If you feel like cooking your own meals, there’s a wide variety of foods here. Hearty vegetables like potatoes, carrots, beets, and cabbage are common, as are local dairy products. It’s the best (and cheapest) place to get produce in the city. Many vendors might not speak English, so prepare to use hand gestures (or download a language app) to overcome the language barrier.

5. Revel in the nightlife

Cluj is a town full of youthful, college types (it’s a university town after all). That means there are plenty of places to grab a drink. The weekends are lively, the drinks flow freely, and the resident DJs spin late into the night. Some places worth checking out are Charlie (if you like whiskey), Londoner Pub (if you want a pub), and Booha Bar (a popular student bar).

6. Admire the Calvinist Reformed Church

This late Gothic-style church was constructed in the late 15th and early 16th centuries and is part of the Calvinist tradition, which was briefly the dominant religion in the region. In front of the church lies a statue of St. George slaying the dragon, a popular story in Christian mythology. The exterior, made of off-white stone, is simple but beautiful and the interior, while not nearly as ornate as Catholic churches, is worth a quick visit to see up close.

8. Visit the Ethnographic Museum of Transylvania

The museum is home to over 50,000 objects from the 17th-20th centuries, all of which are peasant-related (as opposed to items from royalty, which is what many museums usually present). It’s a small and informative museum that gives insight into typical rural life in the area. Admission is 10 RON per person. There is also an open-air part of the museum, called Ethnographic Park “Romulus Vuia” which features over 90 traditional buildings from all over Transylvania. The park is in a separate location just outside of the city and also costs 10 RON to enter.

9. Explore Hoia Forest

This infamous forest has been the site of many alleged ghost and UFO sightings over the centuries (as well as other paranormal activities). In fact, it’s often considered the creepiest forest in the world. Here, trees are warped and bent in unsettling ways that science hasn’t been able to explain. Take a stroll through the woods during the day for free (lots of locals walk and jog here) or do a guided night tour! Night tours cost 250-475 RON per person.

10. See the Salt Mine in Turda

Located just under an hour from the city, the mine dates back to antiquity and was used throughout the Middle Ages. Learn how workers got the salt to the surface before the invention of modern machinery as you explore the deep, dark, and cool depths of the mine. There’s a small underground lake at the bottom where you can rent a boat and paddle around. There are also games like bowling and mini-golf and even a Ferris wheel! It’s a good place to visit with kids. There is also a spa if you want to treat yourself to some natural remedies. Admission is 50 RON on weekdays and 60 RON on weekends. You can take a guided tour for an extra 100 RON.

11. Take a free walking tour

The first thing I do when I arrive in a new city is take a walking tour. Cluj Guided Tours offers walking tours in English that can help you deepen your understanding of the city and its people. Their tours cover all the main sights so you can learn about the city from an expert local guide. Just be sure to tip at the end! (Reservations currently required).

12. Relax in Central Park

Founded in the 19th century, this large urban park is a great place to go for a stroll or sit back and relax with a book. Located on the southern shore of the Somesul Mic River, the park is home to a man-made lake, trails, and a pavilion. The University of Arts and Design and the Chemistry Faculty of Babes-Bolyai University can also be found here.

  For more information on other cities in Romania, check out these guides:

• Brasov Travel Guide
• Sibiu Travel Guide

Cluj-Napoca Travel Costs

Hostel prices – A bed in a 4-8-bed dorm costs around 50-75 RON per night, while a private double room costs 130-180 RON. Free Wi-Fi and lockers are standard, and a few hostels also include free towels. Free breakfast is available in around half the hostels in town so shop around if that’s a priority for you.

For those traveling with a tent, wild camping is legal but theft is a bit common so it’s much safer to camp in designated campgrounds. Prices start at 40 RON per night for a basic plot for two without electricity. Camping Colina is the nearest campground and prices include free Wi-Fi, hot showers, a heated swimming pool, and charging stations.

Budget hotel prices – Budget hotels cost around 130-160 RON per night. Most include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and coffee/tea makers. Most hostels have self-catering facilities and many also include free breakfast.

A private Airbnb room costs around 85-115 RON while an entire home/apartment costs around 125-160 RON per night.

Food – Romanian cuisine is hearty, influenced by nearby Hungary and other Eastern European neighbors. Stews and sausages are common staples, with garlic sausage being especially popular. Sour soup, lamb, meatballs, and meat pies are other popular traditional meals.

Cheap but hearty meals (such as schnitzel with mashed potatoes and salad) cost around 25-35 RON. Soup is a good option for saving money, as it costs around 15-25 RON and is pretty hearty (it also typically comes with a side of bread).

At a mid-range restaurant, a three-course meal costs around 80 RON. A burger or pasta dish is 35-40 RON while seafood or steak dishes typically cost 75-130 RON. A personal pizza is around 33-35 RON.

Fast food is around 6-9 RON for a burger or hot dog, while a combo meal (think McDonald’s) is around 30-40 RON. Takeaway sandwiches are around 20 RON.

A domestic beer out at a restaurant or bar costs around 8-10 RON, a glass of local wine is 13-15 RON while a bottle is 60-100 RON, and cocktails start at 17-25 RON. A cappuccino/latte is around 10-12 RON, tea is 10 RON, and a bottle of water is 5-8 RON.

If you buy your own groceries and cook your meals, expect to pay about 140-190 RON per week for groceries that include pasta, vegetables, chicken, and other basic staples. Save money by shopping at local markets or small roadside stands, which usually have the cheapest and freshest products.

Backpacking Cluj-Napoca Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 150 RON per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm (or camp), cook all of your meals, use local transportation to get around, limit your drinking, and enjoy mostly free activities like hiking and free walking tours.

On a mid-range budget of about 295 RON per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb, eat out for most of your meals at budget-friendly restaurants, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi, and do more paid activities (like visiting museums or the mine).

On a “luxury” budget of 515 RON or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for every meal, rent a car, drink as much as you want, and visit as many museums and attractions as you’d like. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in RON.

Cluj-Napoca Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Cluj is pretty affordable because it’s a university town so there are tons of students around. It’s hard to spend money here if you’re coming with a budget mindset already. That said, here are a few extra ways you can save money in Cluj:

• Stay with a local – Couchsurfing connects you with locals who can give you not only a free place to stay but can also introduce you to all the great places to see. It’s a great community to be a part of and the best way to connect with locals.
• Eat lunch out – Although the food in Romania is inexpensive in general, you can save more money by cooking your own dinners and eating your lunches out. A lunch menu in Romania typically consists of three courses (soup, main, dessert), and can cost as little as 30 RON.
• Shop at discount grocers – If you’re going to cook or just grab a snack, save money by shopping at discount supermarkets like Profi, Lidl, and Penny Market.
• Start your trip here – Wizz Air flies to Cluj-Napoca and you can find flights for as little as 46 RON from destinations around Europe. It’s a budget airline so don’t expect much, but it’s a cheap way to get your foot in the door!
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is generally safe so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your reliance on single-use plastic. I suggest a LifeStraw since their bottles have a built-in filter to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Cluj-Napoca

Cluj-Napoca has a few hostels and they’re all pretty comfortable and sociable places. Here are my suggested places to stay:

• Retro Youth Hostel

How to Get Around Cluj-Napoca

Public transportation – A single fare on the public bus is 2.50 RON per person while a day pass is 14 RON. If you’re going to be here for a while, you can buy a three-day pass for 23 RON.

Most of the city is within walking distance so you won’t need to use the bus much unless you’re staying in a hotel or hostel far from the main tourist sites.

Taxi – Taxis here can get expensive (relative to taking the bus at least) so I’d avoid them for anything other than a short trip. Prices start at 2.33 RON and go up by 2.30 RON per kilometer. However, if you’re traveling with someone then taxis can be a good choice as you can split the fare and save some time (they are much faster than buses as well).

Always call your taxi in advance to be sure that you get a reputable driver. Only get in taxis that use and display the required meter.

Ridesharing – Uber is available in Cluj and is a bit cheaper than taxis, however, you can take the bus and walk everywhere so you really shouldn’t need it.

Bicycle – Cycling is a great way to get around the city as everything is pretty compact. Lots of locals bike around as well. You can find rentals for 65 RON per day.

When to Go to Cluj-Napoca

The best (and most popular) time to visit Cluj-Napoca is during the summer, from June to August. Temperatures are hot and rain is infrequent. Expect temperatures around 30°C (86°F) during this time. These are the busiest months of the year for tourism, but even then, the crowds are much smaller than those in Western Europe.

The shoulder seasons (late April-May and September-October) are great times to visit as well. There are no crowds and much milder temperatures, which is perfect for anyone looking to head into the hills for some hiking. There’s more rain in the spring, but there are stunning autumn colors in the fall, which makes for a stunning backdrop to your trip.

Winter in Romania can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing. Snow is common, which can affect conditions if you’re traveling by car. Cluj-Napoca can look quite charming in the winter, especially when compared to Bucharest which has a much grimmer atmosphere due to the influence of Soviet architecture and their reliance on gray, bland concrete. But whether that charm is worth the cold weather is up to you!

How to Stay Safe in Cluj-Napoca

Cluj is a very safe place to visit as crime against foreigners is rare. Theft can occur when riding crowded city buses and trams so take extra precautions when riding or waiting at a stop. Never have your valuables within reach; always keep them secured in your bag (and always keep your bag within sight).

Additionally, take some extra precautions when renting a car. While the roads are safe, rental cars are targeted for theft more than local cars, so just make sure you take precautions and lock your vehicle when you’re not using it. When booking, make sure your insurance covers theft.

Solo female travelers should generally feel comfortable exploring Cluj-Napoca on their own, though the standard precautions apply (don’t accept drinks from strangers, don’t walk alone late at night, etc.).

While scams are rare, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID. Forward your itinerary along to loved ones so they’ll know where you are.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Cluj-Napoca Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Cluj-Napoca Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Romania and continue planning your trip:

The Cost of Traveling Far Eastern Europe

Finding More Than Dracula in Romania

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10 of the best things to do in Cluj-Napoca, Romania: a local's guide

The ‘capital’ of Transylvania has a large student population and an arty vibe with excellent clubs and some of Europe’s best-loved electronic music festivals

Lively old town

The historic centre around Unirii Square, the largest square in Cluj, is beautiful. Look out for the Hotel Melody Central . It opened in 1890 as a hotel but has also been a jazz club and a chapel. St Michael’s church is a huge gothic building and sights around the square include Old Banffy Palace , which now houses the National Art Museum , and the old town hall. The three main squares in the city centre – Mihai Viteazul and Avram Iancu, as well as Unirii – are full of historic buildings and cosy bars.

Cutting -edge festivals

Festivals attract a lot of visitors to Cluj and have really changed the city and accelerated its growth. It’s best known for electronic music events, particularly Electric Castle (15-17 July 2020), which won the best medium-sized festival at the 2019 European Festival Awards . Untold is another major electronica festival (30 July-2 August) and this year sees the launch of Form Days , a music and arts extravaganza in Gilău, outside the city (2-5 July). Cluj has a big history with jazz too, and Jazz in the Park (25-28 June) was named best small festival 2019.

Art, film and hair

Cluj is a very creative place with a mix of established institutions like the National Art Museum and more underground galleries like Fabrica de Pensule (previously in a large warehouse-like building, it’s currently closed but will reopen this year with events in different locations). One of the best modern art galleries is Galeria Quadro , while the Creic Center is a new creative hub for local artists. There’s a big interest in film in Cluj too: the Transilvania International Film Festival (29 May-7 June) is the most important in Romania – it was started by a group of friends about 17 years ago and now runs for almost two weeks, attracting people from all over the world. CASA TIFF has events and exhibitions all year and has a cafe and restaurant too with vegan fare. An unusual place to check out is Hairgonomy Hair Salon , which regularly hosts DJs and live artists performing in the salon. It also holds art exhibitions. Visitors who want to see art should contact a friend of ours, Helga Thies, who recently started ArtCrawl Cluj , taking people to discover the city’s diverse contemporary art.

Creative bar scene

Cluj is a lively student city with a great craft beer and cocktail scene. Joben Bistro is a steampunk bar with a focus on cocktails and Enigma also has a steampunk theme: the decor is amazing, with its kinetic sculptures, and it even has beer cocktails – try bloody beers with chilli sauce! Insomnia attracts artists and actors – it started as a photo gallery and became a bar – and Booha Bar is a must, especially at the weekend.

Cafes to linger in

Brunch has become really popular here and one great new place is District of Toast – though it does breakfast, lunch, dinner and good cocktails too! There are lots of inventive toast-based dishes, but make sure you try the clujentine eggs, served on a traditional cheese-filled pie with mushrooms and cream, and basil pesto. There’s a cool outside space and inside the vibe is industrial chic. It makes its own ginger beer and uses homemade ingredients for its cocktails. It’s the first place in Cluj to adopt a serious waste-free policy – which is why it serves cocktails in cute little bottles.

Cluj also has a big coffee culture – a remnant from Austro-Hungarian times. Meron is a roastery and coffee concept with seven locations in town. Eggcetera was the first dedicated brunch place to open in 2018, serving all-day breakfast at communal tables – it was all very new and there was a lot of hype. Ham and Jam , which opened last summer, serves more US-style and sweet breakfasts. Sisters is another great cafe, where you can experience the hipsterish side of town – it feels like being in Berlin.

Peaceful green space

Cluj is a busy city but there’s lots of nature around. We’re on the river Somesul Mic and there are plenty of green spaces like Central Park, which is right on the riverbank. The Botanical Garden , opened to the public in 1925, is very beautiful and a lovely place to relax. It contains a rose garden with 250 different varieties, and examples of gardens from different parts of the world, like the Roman Garden and the Japanese Garden, as well as the Botanical Museum. Another interesting place is the Ethnographic Park and Museum – an open-air museum where you’ll see rural Romanian scenes. Last year it started running events with local chef Horia Simion hosting slow food lunches using local ingredients and showcasing Transylvanian gastronomy.

Taste of Transylvania

Among our favourite places to eat is Samsara Foodhouse , a brilliant vegetarian, vegan and raw food restaurant. It’s a bright location, with an olive tree growing in the centre. Mushroom and spinach lasagne and wild mushroom stew with truffles are popular dishes. There’s also Samsara Teahouse , great for organic teas, and each room has different decor – like the Asian room, and the psychedelic room. For really traditional Romanian fare, though, go to Roata – it has Transylvanian cold plate starters, traditional soups and dishes like cheese and polenta from the countryside, and local homemade wine (as well as traditional pálinka plum brandy). It has just opened a more modern bistro too.

Vintage ventures

There’s a brilliant secondhand/vintage scene in Cluj, as well as some interesting independent designers. Helofita is a great outlet store – there are several of them around town – where you’ll find all sorts of secondhand clothes in good condition. Tabita is another chain of outlet stores where you often find cool stuff. For amazing handmade leather goods go to The Mill Handmade for Life , and check out Adina Grapa , a local designer who has her own shop that’s great for leather bags. Dopium Urban is another great label which rebuilds and upcycles all kinds of clothes; what were once ski-pants become a unique, incredible jacket. It’s owned by young, talented Cristina Teleptean who gives used clothes a second chance. Cluj is home to the University of Arts and Design and every summer the fashion students organise a great fashion show, the UAD Gala.

Funky new hostels

The hostel concept is quite a new idea in Cluj but it’s growing here now. There’s Iron hostel (bed from £11, doubles from £24) close to the station and Zen hostel (bed from £11, doubles from £23), which have lots of eco-friendly credentials and a mix of dorms and private rooms, as well as a bar and kitchen. Local people use Zen as a community centre so there are often events and DJs playing. There’s a bar and kitchen, terrace area and – yes – a hammock room for relaxing. Iron hostel is in the lively student district and just five minutes’ walk from the old town. Cluj has lots of excellent Airbnb apartments too.

Clubbing heaven

Club Midi , opened in 2007, was a huge thing (it’s been recognised as being in the top 100 clubs in the world by DJ Mag several times). It recently reopened with the emphasis on electronic music, from techno to house. FORM Space is another great venue – it has club nights, and live events. There is also a FORM cafe, a restaurant and bar which sometimes has parties.

When to go Spring and autumn are great times to visit, with the city in bloom or boasting vivid fall colours. Temperatures are less stifling than in midsummer, but warm enough for alfresco drinks. Summer sees an influx of visitors for the festivals, but there are great events all year round.

Costs Half a litre of beer is typically £1, a cappuccino is £1.20, and a three-course meal for two around £18. £1 = 5.6 RON (Romanian Leu)

Claudiu Șulea is founder and Flavia Mocan the PR manager of La Résistance creative agency and social enterprise

This article was amended on 29 January 2020 as one of the places originally mentioned had closed since the interview

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Home » Travel Guides » Romania » 15 Best Things to Do in Cluj-Napoca (Romania)

15 Best Things to Do in Cluj-Napoca (Romania)

A dynamic and youthful university city, the capital of Transylvania is Romania’s second most populous urban centre. True to Transylvania’s Saxon background, Cluj-Napoca is endowed with Gothic wonders like the Stunning St Michael’s Church and the Reformed Church.

Cluj-Napoca also has an exciting historical legacy as the home of Hungarian dukes and the birthplace of the 15th-century Hungarian King Matthias Corvinus, who is remembered with an imposing statue in front of St Michael’s.

For culture you can get acquainted with rural customs and history at the Ethnographic museum, which has a terrific outdoor exhibition with hundreds of reconstructed houses. There’s also a nationally-renowned Botanical garden, elegant parks and an epic gorge waiting for you just outside the city.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Cluj-Napoca :

1. St Michael’s Church

Cluj-Napoca’s heavyweight sight is this stunning 15th-century Gothic church on Unirii Square.

With three equal naves, and measuring 70 metres long and 80 metres high, few churches in Romania can match St Michael’s for power as well as sheer depth of history.

The 15th-century King of Hungary and Croatia Mathias Corvius, was crowned in this building not long after its completion in 1464. Almost 500 years later there was another important moment when the Bishop Áron Márton spoke out openly against the Holocaust at this church, even while Jews were still being kept in the Kolozsvár Ghetto.

After renovations in the 20th century, frescoes going back to the 1400s were revealed in different parts of the church.

The most complete of these can be seen in the southwestern Schleunig Chapel.

In the 18th century the Cluj-born sculptor Johannes Nachtigall carved the highly elaborate pulpit and altar to the Three Kings.

2. Cluj-Napoca Art Museum

On the other side of Strada Iuliu Maniu, the Bánffy Palace is a stately partner to St Michael’s Church.

This 18th-century Baroque residence was designed by the German architect Eberhard Blaumann and was built in the mid-1770s for the Hungarian Duke György Bánffy.

Among a lofty roll-call of guests is the Holy Roman Emperor Francis II who visited with his wife Caroline Augusta in 1817. The museum inside has works by some of Romania’s most celebrated painters like the Impressionist Ion Andreescu and the Post-Impressionist Nicolae Tonitza.

But even more exciting is the Late Gothic Altar of Jimbor, a 16th-century polyptych with sculpted figures of the Madonna and Child at the centre.

3. Botanical Garden

A few minutes on foot from the Old Town is a 14-hectare botanical garden plotted in the 1920s.

There are 11,000 different species here, planted in greenhouses and a host of individual gardens arranged according to geography or applications like medicine and historic trades.

There’s also an area dedicated to ornamentation and design, where you’ll come across the rosarium, Mediterranean garden and an authentic Japanese garden.

As with all botanical attractions the garden is best visited in spring and summer, but at any time of year you can call in at the Botanical Museum and Herbarium, which has 660,000 sheets of dried plants in cabinets.

4. National Museum of Transylvanian History

To wrap your head around the complex and tumultuous history of Transylvania come to this red pastel-painted building on Piaţa Muzeului.

The exhibits start with Prehistory, taking you through the Palaeolithic and Neolithic periods, into the Bronze and Iron Age, displaying tools, bones, jewellery and ceramics.

There are also Roman Dacian coins and glassware, Medieval documents, weapons and Western European furniture from an array of periods.

A standout exhibit is an Egyptian sarcophagus from the 3rd century BC, as well as some 700 stove tiles dating from the 1300s to the 1800s.

At the time of writing the museum was temporarily closed for renovations.

5. Pharmacy History Collection

Casa Hintz hosts the oldest pharmacy in Cluj-Napoca, dating to 1573. In 1954 a museum opened inside, and over time the collection has grown to 1,800 pieces, giving a comprehensive account of pharmacies and medicine in Transylvania from the 1500s to the 1900s.

These historic pots, bottles, copper stills, glass retorts, scales and books go hand-in-hand with the pharmacy’s original fittings, like a beautiful Baroque mural in the main shop from 1766 and a cabinet with a painting depicting the human lifecycle.

You can also browse some of the bizarre substances that passed for medicine centuries ago, like lobster eyes, Venetian theriac (poison antidote), or mummia (powdered human mummies).

6. Parcul Central

Now more than 190 years old, Cluj’s main park was one of the first public spaces for recreation in Eastern Europe.

Parcul Central is an official historic monument and is bounded by the sleek Cluj Arena to the east and the Someșul Mic river to the north.

Even on freezing days in winter you could head here to walk the graceful alleys, embellished with a magnificent marble fountain, pond, bandstand and the striking old casino building, which is traced by a colonnade.

But of course, summer is when the park comes into its own, when you can dine on the terrace at the island pavilion and rent a pedal boat or rowboat from the jetty.

7. Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral

Built in ten years up to 1933, Cluj-Napoca’s Orthodox Cathedral is a revival of the Brâncovenesc style, which first appeared at the end of the 17th century and mixed Byzantine and Renaissance architecture.

The main dome has shades of the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, and is watched by four towers, each with semicircular arches.

Inside, that central dome is held up by 18 hefty columns.

The spectacular interior mosaics date to 2001 and were produced with Murano glass by the artist Virgil Morariu.

These complement the original murals painted at the turn of the 1930s by two professors at Cluj-Napoca’s art academy.

8. Piarists’ Church

Dating from the beginning of the 1720s, this monument is a spot with real historical significance.

It was the first Baroque church in Transylvania, as well as the first Roman Catholic place of worship after the Reformation in the 16th century.

The church was founded by the Jesuits, and then handed to the Piarists when the Jesuit order was suppressed in 1773. The facade is brightly painted in orange and yellow, and has pilasters, scrolls, a bas-relief of the Holy Trinity above the portal and niches with sculptures.

The interior is even richer, with an altar that rises from the floor to the ceiling and has silver statues of the Jesuit saints Francis Xavier and Ignatius of Loyola.

These are Austrian in origin, while another Austrian, Anton Schuchbauer, carved the exuberant 18th-century pulpit and canopy.

9. Romulus Vuia Ethnographic Park

On the western outskirts is an outdoor museum for a deep insight into Transylvanian rural life.

Established on a hillside in 1929, the park has 200 historic buildings that have been brought here in pieces and rebuilt.

The most beautiful of these are two 18th-century Saxon churches with murals inside, while more than 30 are open and shed light on traditional livelihoods like metalworking, pottery, animal husbandry, stonemasonry, peasant mining and many more.

The houses and workshops have been sourced from across Transylvania and Central Romania, from the Apuseni Mountains in the Western Carpathians to the Székely Land in the Eastern Carpathians.

Follow up with a visit to the Transylvanian Ethnographic Museum in the centre of the Old Town.

10. Reformed Church

On Strada Lupului, this Gothic church has been the main place of worship for Cluj-Napoca’s Calvinist community for almost half a millennium.

It is also the seat of the Transylvanian Reformed Church District, which had 500,000 members at the last count.

The building started out as a Minorite monastery church in the 15th century, and has the style of a German hall church, with a single nave and no transept.

Take a peek inside at the rib vaults, the richly ornamented Transylvanian Renaissance pulpit from 1646 and the organ in the gallery on the west side.

Try to find out when the next concert is scheduled, as the church’s acoustics are first-rate.

11. Casa Matia (Matthias Corvinus House)

At no. 6 on Strada Matei Corvin you’ll be at the birthplace of Matthias Corvinus, King of Hungary and Croatia from 1458 to 1490. Among the most celebrated monarchs of the period, he was born here in 1443 and was the son of the Voivode (like a general or prince) of Transylvania, John Hunyadi.

The house isn’t open to the public as it is used by the Design and Fine Arts University of Cluj-Napoca.

But there are two plaques to mark the importance of the building, which has contained a jail, hospital and museum in its time.

The Gothic ogival portal and mullioned windows give a hint of the age of the house.

12. Matthias Corvinus Monument

Fronting St Michael’s Church on Union Square(Piața Unirii) is a solemn, larger than life-sized statue of the 15th-century king.

The work of the leading Hungarian sculptor, János Fadrusz, the monument was unveiled in 1902 and shows Matthias Corvinus on horseback.

Standing 12 metres tall, it depicts Corvinus’ horse with all four hooves on the ground, and this is believed to show that the king died of natural causes and not in combat.

At the base of the pedestal are four more statues depicting eminent figures from his reign like the Viceroy of Hungary and the Prince of Transylvania, who are both positioned to his right.

13. Lake Tarnița

An outdoor excursion of choice in summer for Cluj-Napoca residents, Lake Tarnița is a water reservoir created by the Tarnița Dam in 1974. An easy 20 minutes west of the city, the reservoir is 215 hectares in size and twists between tall hills that have a mantle of forest.

You can enquire locally about activities on the lake, which include boating, jet-skiing and fishing, or you could just pack a picnic and spend a carefree few hours on the shore on a warm day, taking a occasional dip in the cool water.

The shoreline is also a treat for walkers who don’t mind going off track for the best vantage points of the lake.

14. Turda Gorge

If you have a few hours to spare, drive down to this limestone canyon about 30 kilometres south of Cluj-Napoca.

One of Romania’s favourite climbing destinations, the Turda Gorge is almost three kilometres long, with walls that reach 300 metres.

The surfaces are riddled with around 60 caves, most of which are no more than a few metres deep, while the largest burrows into the rock for 120 metres.

These cavities were inhabited during the Neolithic period.

Walkers can choose to stay low by the river or battle up the gradient to view the gorge from above, which is difficult but merits the effort.

15. Kürtőskalács

Whenever there’s a public event in Transylvania you’ll catch the inviting scent of this “spit cake” on the air.

Kürtőskalács originated with the Hungarian population in the Székely Land to the east and is a simple cake made in a rather complicated way.

A dough made with flour, milk, sugar and yeast is poured onto a cylindrical mould and then turned over a glowing charcoal and basted with butter until golden brown.

When the mould is removed you get a hollow cake that is then normally coated with sugar and chopped walnuts and goes perfectly with coffee.

15 Best Things to Do in Cluj-Napoca (Romania):

• St Michael's Church
• Cluj-Napoca Art Museum
• Botanical Garden
• National Museum of Transylvanian History
• Pharmacy History Collection
• Parcul Central
• Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral
• Piarists' Church
• Romulus Vuia Ethnographic Park
• Reformed Church
• Casa Matia (Matthias Corvinus House)
• Matthias Corvinus Monument
• Lake Tarnița
• Turda Gorge
• Kürtőskalács

Best things to do in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, in one day (A Complete Cluj Travel Guide)

Cluj-Napoca has become one of the top cities to visit in Romania since it evolved into a vibrant and artsy cultural centre of Transylvania.

Many hear about it when the notorious music festivals started to attract international music lovers, and it transformed it into a destination for travellers looking for the comfortable but affordable city life in Romania. After visiting Cluj a few times, I want to share with your some of the top places and best things to do in Cluj-Napoca.

You can save all the places for later on your Google Maps (the complete Cluj-Napoca travel guide on Google Map ):

Don’t have time to read all about Cluj now? Save this post for later on Pinterest!

What are the best things to do in Cluj-Napoca?

Cluj-Napoca is the second-largest city in Romania , after Bucharest, the capital city. But in the last decade, Cluj has been lucky enough to absorb all the great lifestyle influences of the western lifestyle, as it is closer to Budapest than it is to Bucharest. 

Today, I find Cluj more similar to central-European cities, not judging just by the appearance of the city, but also by the way the people act and live their lives in general. Coming from Bucharest, I can clearly see a difference between the two cities, and I understand why many adults choose to move to Cluj from Bucharest. 

With that in mind, let’s discover the best things to do in Cluj-Napoca. 

Cetatuia (Parcul Cetățuia)

Cetățuia Park is one of the top places to see when visiting Cluj-Napoca as it offers a beautiful view of the city. It is a popular meeting place for couples and teenagers during the evening to admire the lights of the city. 

This hilly park is actually a 1735 military fortification that has star-shaped walls, that used to have several bastions protecting it. It was built during the Habsburg occupation, to protect the city. Over the years, the fortification has been through many transformations, being used as a prison, serving as a home for the poorest inhabitants in Cluj and then chosen as the ground for the Belvedere Hotel during the communist era. 

Unirii Square (Piața Unirii)

Right in the centre of Cluj-Napoca, you will find Union Square (Piața Unirii). This is the largest square in Cluj and it also stands between the medieval walls of the fortress and the historical centre of the city. Right in the middle of the square, you’ll find Saint Michael Church and the statue of Matia Corvin. On the sides of the square, you’ll find fascinating buildings, such as Banffy Palace which is home to the Art Museum, the National Bank and Continental Hotel, which was built in 1894. 

Saint Michael Church (Biserica Sf. Mihail)

This is a Roman-Catholic church and it is one of the most representative monuments of gothic architecture in Transylvania. It is probably one of the most famous buildings from Cluj and you can see it on most postcards and videos from Cluj. The church is 70 meters wide and the church’s tower reaches a high of 80 meters. The church is part of the Romanian patrimony. 

The Statue of Matthias Corvinus (Statuia lui Matia Corvin)

Matia Corvin, or Matthias, was one of the Hungarian kings and he ruled the kingdom between 1458 and 1490. He was born in Cluj in 1443 and was the second son of Ioan of Hunedoara, and one of the Kings of Hunedoara Castle , one of the largest medieval castles in Eastern Europe, that still stands today.

The Central Park (Parcul central Simion Bărnuțiu)

The Central Park in Cluj. commonly known as Parcul Mare (The Big Park) is the main green space in Cluj. The park is spreading on on 13 hectares and has a history starting from 1827. 

But the locals love this park because it’s the perfect place to unwind and disconnect from the city’s traffic and agitation. Inside the park, you’ll find the old Casino’s building, where many cultural activities often take place. 

Ethnographic Park of Transilvania (Parcul Etnografic al Transilvaniei)

The ethnographic museum of Transilvania has two components – the Ethnographic Museum (located on 21 Memorandumului Street, close to the centre) and the Ethnographic Park (Taietura Turcului Street).

While the museum might be considered boring by some, the park (Parcul Etnografic National Romulus Vuia) is a must-see, as this was the first open-air museum in Romania. 

Cluj-Napoca Art Museum (Muzeul de Artă Cluj-Napoca)

The Cluj-Napoca Art Museum is hosted in a beautiful 18th-century Baroque building, right in the heart of the city. If you’re an art lover, you’ll be pleased to discover the many valuable and gorgeous pieces exhibited here. Inside, you’ll find paintings, graphics and decorative art. 

The permanent exhibition includes pieces of art signed by famous Romanian painters, such as  Nicolae Grigorescu, Ștefan Luchian, Dimitrie Paciurea, Theodor Pallady, Camil Ressu, Vasile Popescu. 

National Museum of Transylvanian History (Muzeul Național de Istorie a Transilvaniei)

The Transylvanian History Museum exhibits over 400,000 valuable pieces belonging to the historical heritage of Transylvanian culture. This is one of the most prestigious archaeological institutions in Europe and foresees the diggings from the Dacian settlements from Ulpia Traiana Sarmizegetusa (I posted a video about this place) and several other Roman camps from Transylvania. 

Tailors’ Tower (Turnul Croitorilor)

While discovering the old town of Cluj, you will likely run into the famous Tailors’ Tower. It’s one of the few fortifications from the old Cluj fortress that is still standing. 

It was funded by the tailors’ guild of the time, and it was customary that each guild had its own tower, to defend the city. 

The tower was first built in the 15th century and it is the only one to exist today. Inside, you will find a small museum. 

Matia House (Casa Matia)

The Matia House (6 Matei Corvin Street) is one of the most important historical monuments in Cluj. This is where the great Hungarian king, Matia Corvin, was born, on February 23, 1440. His statue is in the middle of the grand square of Cluj, only a few minutes away. 

Matia’s father, Iancu of Hunedoara, was the ruler of Transylvania, a province of the Habsburg Empire at the time. Although the family’s main residence was at the Hunedoara Castle, Iancu chose Cluj as the birthplace for his son, as a way to cool down the opposition for the new Hungarian king, Vladislav I, also known as Vladislav III, the Polish king. 

Hintz House (Casa Hintz)

The Hintz House hosts the Pharmacy Museum in Cluj, and it is located on one of the corners of Union Square. The building was used to host the first pharmacy in Cluj in 1573. Inside, the walls are still decorated with the original 1766 Baroque mural paintings. 

Over the years, the building served many purposes and was even used as a pastry shop during the communist regime. You’ll notice that the corner of the building is now a pedestrian sidewalk, and the building facade is simple, missing all of its original decorations. The exhibits of the museum date from 1904. It’s well worth a stop as one of the things to do in Cluj, as it’s only a few steps away from the main square in Cluj. 

Botanical Garden (Gradina Botanică Alexandru Borza)

If you’re in Cluj only for one day, and it’s not winter, then you should definitely not miss the botanical garden. The garden spreads on 14 hectares and it exhibits various plants and ecosystems from different continents and areas of our planet. They say to have over 10,000 types of plant categories. 

Of course, the plants you’ll see during your visit will depend on the current season. You’ll get the chance to see various spring specific flowers, and during summer they claim to have over 350 species of roses. 

The Japanese garden from the middle is one of the main attractions. But if you’re lucky enough to find the greenhouses open, don’t miss them. They host numerous tropical plants from all over the world. 

Unfortunately, I visited the botanical garden in Cluj on a Monday, when the greenhouses are closed for the public. I recommended checking their current schedule before visiting the botanical garden in Cluj. (Check the schedule here http://gradinabotanica.ubbcluj.ro/en/opening-hours/ ) 

Here’s the vlog from Cluj, from my last visit which was in June 2021:

Where to eat in Cluj-Napoca? (Best vegan restaurants in Cluj included)

After a short stroll around the centre of Cluj, you’ll notice that there are many lovely places to sit down and enjoy a meal. But I have a few recommendations if you are looking for the best vegan restaurants in Cluj:

London Brothers

Rated as the best burgers in Cluj, you’ll find yourself in the position to actually choose what kind of vegan burger you want. The owners are two brothers who are both renowned chefs who worked in fancy restaurants in London and won culinary awards that I don’t know much about. But I can tell you this – this place will not disappoint. Vegan or not, you’ll find something to your liking and you will probably tell others about this place. 

Only a few steps from the main square in Cluj, you will find this cosy vegan place with fresh veggie and fruit bowls. There are many options and sizes available. It was really yummy, the location is lovely and the staff is friendly. 

If you’re in Cluj on a hot summer day, you don’t want to miss the tasty ice cream from Mortiz. The ice cream shop is right next to the main square in Cluj and they have an impressive collection of vegan ice cream (sorbet). 

Other notable restaurants to eat in Cluj are:

• Samsara. It’s a fancy Vegan restaurant, with lovely design and great staff. I feel it’s on the expensive side of things to do in Cluj. 
• Da Pino. One of the fancy restaurants in town, expensive, but with great staff and food. 
• Eggcetera. They serve breakfast all day long.
• Baraca. One of the most praised fine dining restaurants in Romania. It’s the place to go if you want to experience the absolute best service and food. 
• STORIA Cucina Centrale. You’ll find the best Italian cuisine in Cluj at this restaurant.
• Indigo. The go-to Indian restaurant in town. 
• Roata . The place to taste traditional dishes from Transylvania. 

You’ll probably need a reservation for most of these fancy places, especially if you plan to go there for dinner when all places get super crowded. 

Day trips from Cluj

If you got want to rent a car (or you’ve got to Cluj by car) then you will want to visit the surroundings of this beautiful city. 

There are many beautiful sites not too far from Cluj, although you might not be able to see all of them in one day. Also, in some places you might want to stay for at least a couple of hours, to enjoy the place. 

After exploring Cluj and its surroundings, I can recommend the following places to add to your day trips from Cluj itinerary:

• Bontida Castle (Banffy Castle)
• Turda salt mine (Salina Turda)
• Tarnita Lake (Lacul Târnița)
• Sic reed (Stufarisul de la Sic)
• Baciului Gorges (Cheile Baciului)
• Baciu Hoia forest (Padurea Hoia Baciu) 

Since you cannot visit all of these in one day and I will try to group them to make an itinerary for your day trip. However, if you have more time and want to explore some more, I also recommend checking out this 5-day Romania itinerary , which includes some of these place, and more (castles, ancient Roman ruins and natural wonders).

Cluj day trip option 1: Visit Turda salt mine

The mine is located in Turda, a city only 30 km away from Cluj. Turda salt mine is considered to be one of the most spectacular underground formations shaped by humans. While I’m not a big fan of underground attractions, this place is one of the top attractions in Romania and it’s well worth a visit. You can stay as long as you want, but know to read the latest announcements on their website. Also, bring some warmer clothes, as the temperature is around 10°Celsius, regardless of the time of the year. 

Here’s is the vlog from Turda Salt Mine near Cluj:

If you want to visit something else around Turda, I recommend checking out the Mihai Voda monastery. This is the burial place for Michael the Brave (Mihai Viteazul), of the most prominent figures in Romanian history books. He was killed in 1601 after he united the three Romanian countries (Transylvania, Moldova and Wallachia). 

Next to his grave is the lovely monastery that carries his name. Unfortunately, not a lot of people visit this place and there is not a lot of content about it. I accidentally found out about it, as I was driving by. This is a common thing in Romania, to discover amazing historical or natural places, just by driving by. There might be a small sign indicating the direction from the main road, and that’s it. The road there isn’t the greatest either and it has some potholes, but any car will make it. 

Here is the vlog from the Tomb and Monestary of Michael the Brave (Mormantul lui Mihai Viteazul) near Cluj:

Other places to visit in and around Turda city are the Turda Gorges (Cheile Turzii) which are a lovely nature escape. I haven’t been there yet, but it looks beautiful and according to Google Maps, there are marked trails. I believe that Transylvania offers some of the best landscapes. 

Cluj day trip option 2: Banffy Castle

Bonțida is a small village only 30 km from Cluj, and it hosts the beautiful Bánffy Castle . The castle dates from the 15th century and it has been called “the Versailles of Transylvania”.

You’ll discover that the castle grounds are absolutely lovely, and if you go in May, you’ll be mesmerised by the acacia trees in full blossom. 

The castle is now under serious renovations, as it was left in the will of fate for many decades, and only the exterior is open for visitors. Even so, the location is often rented for events such as private weddings. Each year, there is an electronic music festival (Electric Castle) that attracts fans from all over the world. I’ve never been to the festival, but I hear it’s great. 

If you want to explore more on this day trip from Cluj, consider adding to your itinerary the Sic reed (Stufarisul de la Sic), which is a lovely reed nature reserve. The landscape is special and the location is nice for photos. During the summer days, it might feel too hot to walk around too much, but luckily there are two wooden pavilions and a watchtower, where you can stop for a short while and cool down. Note that the wooden path is not in the best condition and you might accidentally fall off it if you don’t watch your step. 

Here is the vlog from Banffy Castle near Cluj:

Cluj day trip option 3: Tarnita lake 

One popular weekend escape for those living in Cluj is the beautiful Tarnita Lake (Lacul Tarnita). I have plans to go there on my next trip around Cluj, because I didn’t visit the lake yet. If you feel like you want to go on a short hike, I recommend heading to Piatra lui Lucaci (it translates Lucaci’s stone and I have no idea why.) Put it on your Maps and then hope up on the hill. The views over the lake should be glorious. If you have more time, you can head towards the Apuseni mountains, where you’ll find unreal caves and waterfalls. I’ve been to Bears’ cave a few years ago and it did not disappoint. 

Cluj day trip option 4: Baciu Hoia Forest

I’ve saved the infamous Hoia forest (padurea Hoia Baciu) for the last option as a day trip from Cluj, because I haven’t been there and don’t understand the hype around this place. To be honest, I’ve heard about this place for the first time from two American girls (or at least one was American), sitting next to me on a plane (can’t really remember where I was going) and talking about this forest as if it was a world-class attraction in Romania. 

I said nothing, but they went on and on about the stories they’ve heard and they were extremely excited to get to Cluj to see it. So what’s up with Hoia forest? For some reason (that we Romanian don’t know or understand) it is said that this forest is haunted. Some online travel outlets even appointed this place as one of the top haunted places in the world. I had no idea about it until recently. 

The point is that some go to Hoia forest to see weird stuff happening. I’m not sure if it’s their imagination, but I have no desire to go there. In case you’re looking for something out of the ordinary to visit near Cluj, I guess this is the place. Again, I must warn you, locals will think you’re crazy. 

How to get to Cluj-Napoca?

Get to cluj by plane.

Cluj is the second-largest city in Romania and it has pretty good airfare connections to major European cities. It’s probably cheaper to fly to Cluj from Italy than it is to jump on a plane from Bucharest. 

When planning your trip to Romania and especially to Cluj, it comes down to what you want to do and visit. If you’re planning to visit only Cluj and its surroundings, jumping on a plane might be the best (and cheapest) option to get to Cluj. 

Get to Cluj by car

Of course, you can get to Cluj by car. If you’re driving from Bucharest, then you should reserve an entire day for the trip, because it will take forever. There are some portions of highway, but you will drive through many villages and cities too and it will take a long time. According to Google Maps, there are only 455 km between Bucharest and Cluj, but it will take at least 6 hours to get there. Factor in the breaks, the traffic and you will probably spend close to 10 hours driving. 

Another option is to drive from Budapest, which is roughly the same distance (460km) and it should take around 6-7 hours. But this is a matter of your travel plans. Do know that you will have to cross the border from Hungary to Romania, which might get crowded during summer. Since Romania is not in the Schengen zone, all travellers need to be checked for ID. 

Get to Cluj by train

Unless you are a train aficionado, I don’t recommend this option. Trains aren’t as reliable in Romania as they are in western Europe. The most annoying thing is that they are older trains, which don’t present the best travel conditions, and they move very slow because the tracks haven’t been maintained in ages. When travelling by train in Romania, you’ll know the time you get on the train, but can’t predict the time you’ll reach your destination. 

Another issue with train travel in Romania is the cost. Train tickets are ridiculously expensive. It’s true that now we have two other private companies that offer train rides, but even so, I would only recommend this option if you have lots of time to spare and you’re travelling alone (can’t share the costs of renting a car). 

Where to stay in Cluj-Napoca?

Cluj has many cute and fancy hotels and accommodations. When choosing a place to stay, it comes to your budget, and type of travel. If you want to explore the city centre, where all the cool historical places are (and the great cafes and restaurants), then you should find a place close to the centre. 

But if you just want to see a thing or two, and prefer cheaper accommodation, then there’s no need to splurge on an expensive hotel. Luckily, Cluj offers plenty of options for all kinds of travellers. The good news is that even those more fancy hotels have rooms starting at around 50 Euro, but prices might depend on the season and the current demand. 

Best hotels in Cluj closest to the city centre:

• DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cluj – City Plaza (450m from downtown)
• The Square Hotel (200m from downtown)
• Hotel Beyfin (500m from downtown)
• Guest House 1568 (200m from downtown)

Best budget hotels in Cluj (under 40 Euro for a double room):

• Pensiunea Brici
• TamTam Urban
• Pensiunea Bellagio
• Pensiunea Sada

If you want to have all the comfort of a home, you can book an apartment in Cluj , that meets all your needs. You’ll find plenty of fancy apartments right in the heart of the city, but you’ll want to book those ahead of time, as most people prefer apartments, especially during summer, when they attend the music festivals in Cluj.

What is Cluj known for?

Cluj is known for many things, that relate to history, its geographical location and friendly locals. It attracts one-third of all Romanian students, has a vivid nightlife and even has a full street of bars. 

Here’s an approximate list of things for which Cluj-Napoca is famous for:

• Cluj is around 2000 years old. It was one of the most important citadels from the Eastern Roman Empire. 
• It stands at the heart of Transylvania, both geographically and historically. 
• In 2015, Cluj was elected as the European Youth Capital.
• It has a street full of bars – Piezisa Street (strada Piezisa).
• The city has its own local dish, which most Romanians love – Varza a la Cluj (Cluj style cabbage)
• Tourists can see 15th and 16th-century medicine in the Pharmacy Museum, which contain mummy dust, as well as love potions. 
• In 2014, Cluj was declared the friendliest city for foreigners. In 2021, it was named the most business-friendly Romanian city. 
• Cluj is one of the top cities for IT companies, in the world, because it has a high density of IT engineers. 
• The city attracts music enthusiasts from all over the world, during its famous summer music festivals. 

Festivals in Cluj

Cluj is the best Romanian destination when talking about festivals, and especially music festivals.

What are the festivals in Cluj?

• Transylvania International Film Festival (TIFF) , since 2002. TIFF takes place in June and lasts for 10 days. 
• Electric Castle , since 2013. Takes place in July. EG claims to be one of Europe’s few truly 24-hour festivals. Takes place on the grounds of Banffy Castle, 30 km away from Cluj.
• Untold , since 2015. Untold takes place in August. Attracts one of the biggest crowd and you need to book your accommodation a few months in advance if you want a room in Cluj during the festival.

Although I’ve never been to any of these festivals (because I can’t stand large crowds), I believe that you should be aware of these events, when travelling around Cluj during the summer. Of course, if the point is to attend one of these festivals, that’s great too, but make sure to make all the necessary arrangements ahead of time. 

However, know that each one of these festivals gathers considerable international crowds. You will surely face huge traffic queues in and around Cluj, if you will plan your trip during these festivals. Another reason to carefully plan your trip to Cluj outside the dates of the festivals is that everything gets booked during those dates.

Actually, the entire area gets booked by those attending the festival. It gets to a point that there are no available rooms to book, even if you are a couple of hundred kilometres away from Cluj. I know because I was one of those tourists looking for a room around Transylvania, during the largest music festival. 

Honestly, going on a road trip in Transylvania during the festivals is a total nightmare, and the traffic is beyond any expectation of preparation. I would say to avoid driving anywhere around Cluj at the end of July and the beginning of August. 

Cluj nightlife

Cluj is a great city, the largest city in Transylvania and it has quite a nightlife scene. That is because of the many universities that attract thousands of new students each year. You can’t be a student without a few good bars and clubs to visit every now and then. 

If you’re looking for Cluj nightlife, then you should check out:

• After eight – A fun nightclub that organises regular parties, offers good music and great cocktails.
• Booha Bar – The most popular student bar, located right in the student area of the city. Opens every day at 6 pm. 
• Caro Vintage Club – During the day, this is a nice restaurant in the centre of the old town, which turns into one of the most popular (and crowded) clubs every Thursday, Friday and Saturday night. 
• Charlie – This is a theme Cluj bar that promises to teleport you to the early 20th century in the US. Lots of whiskies are involved, as that is the prohibition time. 
• Che Guevara Social Pub – The ‘50 Cuban decor will be a great conversation topic as you sit down. Enjoy the great food and awesome cocktails. 

Things to do in Cluj-Napoca, Romania: Is Cluj worth a visit? 

YES. There’s no question about it. Cluj-Napoca is one of the best cities you can visit in Romania, and you shouldn’t miss it, as there are many things to do in Cluj-Napoca, Romania. 

If you only have a day or so to spend in Cluj, then I recommend spending them exploring the centre area of Cluj, or even going on a free walking tour. However, the tours might have a special program during the pandemic. Check out the website of Cluj Guided Tours for more details about the available tours in Cluj. 

Let me know if this guide about the best things to do in Cluj was useful for planning your trip in and around Cluj-Napoca, and please let me know if you have any questions. You can always DM me on social media, or send me an email. Safe travels! 

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Iulia Vasile

Iulia is a travel expert, blogger, engineer, freelance copywriter, and a curiosity-driven personality. She sees travel as the ultimate tool for self-improvement and personal growth, and that's the main topic of her blog, Juliasomething.com.

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Tourism in Cluj-Napoca

Hotels in cluj-napoca.

In the historical region of Transylvania , in a picturesque area, the city of Cluj-Napoca awaits quietly to be discovered. Cluj always got its essence through it`s people, who created a multicultural society where you’ll easily blend once you get to feel the city. Take a moment to discover and connect with Cluj-Napoca, you’ll see for yourself why it is called the Heart of Transylvania.

Cluj-Napoca has a special charm , given by the 2000 years history, the geographical location and the people, because here, time flows differently, and the people take the time to say hello to each other, to walk between the boomed trees in the Botanical Garden , to watch the reflection of the sun beams in the twin buildings on the Mirror Street, to smile and to invite you to discover the local culture and traditions. 

Ancient culture and civilization center, Cluj is known from Roman times as one of the most important cities in Roman Dacia , mentioned by the geographer Ptolemaeus two millennia ago. The settlement was later raised to the rank of the municipality during Emperor Hadrian and was called Municipium Aelium Hadrianum Napoca, then to the rank of Colonia Aurelia Napoca, around the year 180, under Marcus Aurelius.

Today, Cluj-Napoca is the country’s second largest city , located in the center of Cluj County and covers an area of about 180 km2 on Someşul Mic river. Surrounded on three sides by hills with heights between 500 and 700 meters, it has the appearance of a real fortress.

Specific to the area of Transylvania, Cluj-Napoca is a multiethnic and pluriconfesional city , with a a population of 324.576 inhabitants accordind to the 2011 census. The metropolitan area has a population of 427.348 people.  Another 80.000 students, as non-permanent residents, increase the population of Cluj-Napoca by coming here to study and work.

Cluj-Napoca brings together historical communities of Romanians, Hungarians, Germans, Armenians, Hebrew, Roma, as well as recent communities of Italians, French, British, Dutch, Turkish, Asians. There is an ethnic, cultural-economic and religious diversity of communities that live in peace and learn from each other. 

The city earned the title of “ Capital of Transylvania ”, because of the dynamism with which it has grown to become today the most important academic, medical, business & IT, cultural, sports and scientific center in Transylvania. 

Whether you want to live a fairytale, get electric, enjoy some of the best cinematography, listen to good music while wandering in the park or just want to try out some tasty food, don’t worry, we’ve got your back. Cluj-Napoca City Days, Untold Festival, Electric Castle, Jazz in the Park, Transylvania International Film Festival (TIFF), Street Food Festival are just a drop in the ocean of events this city hosts. To help this statement, you should know that Cluj was honored with the title of European Capital of Youth in 2015. This city is effervescent, let’s put it that way!

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Top things to do

The historical centre.

The city centre is the main cultural, financial, administrative and commercial area of Cluj-Napoca . It is structured on three major squares forming a triangle, Union Square, Mihai Viteazul Square and Avram Iancu Square where today is the Orthodox Cathedral and the Romanian Opera and Theatre. 

Also, the Museum Square is the starting point of the fortifications of the city, and here we find the Matia Corvin House where the King of the Austro-Hungarian Empire was born, the Obelisk Carolina and the Franciscan Church. The city centre is individualized with the rest of the city through a series of architectural and historical monuments, buildings from the 17th-20th centuries.  

The Fortress Hill

The Fortress Hill is located north of the historical centre, at an altitude of 405 meters, and has the appearance of a plateau, on which the Habsburgs built the first Vauban style fortification in Transylvania, in the 18th century and used to house the administrative buildings, the garrison and the weapons store. Of the initial fortress, which gave the name of the hill, only part of the walls, four buildings and two gates remain.

Nowadays the Fortress Hill represents also a Panoramic Point which offers a great view over the city.

The “Alexandru Borza” Botanical Garden and the Botanical Museum

Founded in 1910, it is nowadays one of the most beautiful and complex of its kind in Southeastern Europe. The Botanical Garden , spreading more than 14 ha, holds attraction points such as the Japanese and the Roman gardens, along with the complex of greenhouses displaying equatorial and tropical plants. The Botanical Museum and the “Babeş-Bolyai” University Herbarium host 11.000 exhibits from all around the world.

The "Romulus Vuia” National Ethnographic Park

The National Ethnographic Park " Romulus Vuia ”, established in 1929, bears the name of its founder and first museum manager, Professor Romulus Vuia. The pieces exhibited are in fact old traditional buildings, grouped together according to their regional particularities, as well as folk architecture monuments, folk installations, craftsman workshops, wells, gateways, big wooden crosses and indoor textiles. 

Representative festivals & traditional culture, arts

The city in the heart of Transylvania is a vibrant one, with unsual events that make you get out of the house and of your daily routine. Cluj-Napoca hosts a number of cultural festivals of various types: music, film, sport, opera, theater or food. These occur throughout the year, though are more frequent in the summer months.

The city has seen a number of important music events , including UNTOLD Festival, Electric Castle Festival, which takes place at Bánffy Castle near Cluj-Napoca, Delahoya, Jazz in the Park, Mioritmic and many others. Also the Cluj-Napoca City Days which are celebrated each year in May, the Transilvania International Film Festival, the Interferences International Theater Festival or Comedy Cluj, are very important for the citizens and tourists.

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12 Fun Things to Do in Cluj Napoca

• Post last modified: October 25, 2023
• Post author: Danielle Zito
• Post published: October 20, 2022
• Post category: Europe / Guides

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Welcome to the heart and soul of Transylvania . Cluj Napoca is one of the most popular destinations in Romania , and is the perfect place for a weekend getaway.

Whether you want a fun night out, some relaxed sightseeing, or an epic underground salt mine adventure, there is something for everyone in this cute city.

In this guide we're going to share everything you need to know for visiting Cluj Napoca, from how to get there, where to eat, and all of the best things to do in and around the city. Let's jump right in!

*Please note that this blog post may contain some affiliate links, which we make a small profit on, at zero cost to you.  Links are only used on products & services that we've used and believe in, to give you the best buying experience.  Purchasing from these links helps us to continue providing free travel guides for you- so thank you for your support!

Where is Cluj Napoca?

Cluj Napoca is the third largest city in Romania , and the capital of Cluj County. This area of Romania is the northwestern part of Transylvania , making it a great home base for exploring some of the cool castles, caves, and mountains of Romania's most beautiful region.

Cluj Napoca is the capital of Transylvania.

How to Get to Cluj Napoca

Cluj Napoca can be reached in a number of ways. Here are the different options for how to get there.

Flying to Cluj Napoca

Cluj Napoca has both domestic and international flights serving its airport. Cities within Romania that fly to Cluj Napoca include Bucharest and Timisoara. Other European cities that fly direct to Cluj Napoca include Aalborg, Barcelona , Bologna, Budapest , Cologne, Debrecen, Dortmund, Doncaster, Frankfurt, Larnaca, Leicester, London, Lyon, Madrid , Manises (Valencia), Memmingen, Milan , Munich, Nuremberg, Rome , Warsaw, and Zaragoza.

Flight Tip:  Using Skyscanner you can put from "your city" to "Romania". This way you can see which is the cheapest airport in the area to fly. Also, you can check the calendar to see which are the cheapest dates for Cluj Napoca!

Search for a flight to Cluj Napoca:

Taking the Train to Cluj Napoca

If you already are in Romania , then another option to get to Cluj Napoca is by train. The main station is right in the center, and connects to a few different domestic destinations. The train is a bit of a longer option, but more comfortable than going by bus. The average train ride from Bucharest to Cluj Napoca is anywhere from 8 1/2 to 12 hours.

Driving to Cluj Napoca

When we did our three month road trip through the Balkans we actually rented our car in Bucharest , and this is how we got to Cluj Napoca. We found that driving around Romania was pretty seamless, with so many awesome things to see along the way from Bucharest to Cluj Napoca. So if you are planning on visiting from Bucharest or other surrounding large cities, it could definitely be worth it to drive. We especially love this as you can explore tons of great spots  along the way.

Rent a car in Bucharest:

Other Options for Visiting Cluj Napoca

If you're not into renting a car, and also can't find a super cheap flight or train ticket to Cluj Napoca, then there are plenty of other options! One of them is to take a bus. This is definitely the most affordable way to travel in  Romania , and there are plenty of bus routes that connect to Cluj Napoca from the surrounding major cities.

Another awesome option for visiting Cluj Napoca is to take a Bla Bla Car. This is a popular carpooling app which is used widely throughout  Europe . It's amazing because you can search for your route and see which drivers are doing the trip, and at which times throughout the day. Often times Bla Bla Car is even cheaper than traveling by bus, it's more comfortable, and can be a fun opportunity to make friends along the way. Additionally, you're also helping someone pay for the gas used on their trip- so it's a win-win!

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Entry Requirements for Romania

When it comes to traveling to a new place, it's important to make sure you know the requirements of entry. Here's everything you need to know for visiting Romania .

Visa Requirements for  Romania

For traveling in  Europe , it can get a little tricky with the Schengen Zone, European Union, Etc. Luckily,  Romania falls outside the Schengen Zone, so its an awesome place to visit if you've already expired your time in the other European countries . Plenty of countries can enter Romania visa free, for up to 90 day. The majority of these are those from the Americas and Europe . However, there are some countries that need to obtain a visa to enter Romania , if they don't have a Schengen Visa. Most of these are citizens from countries of  Africa or  Asia . The full list of these countries can be found by on the official website.

Covid Entry Requirements for  Romania

Luckily, Covid is now a thing of the past in most  European countries , especially in the Balkans. You now no longer need a Covid test or vaccination card to enter Romania . It is important to carry a mask with you though, as they still require them to be worn on public transportation.

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Local Adjustments

While traveling there are things that may be different from the place you are coming from. Here are a few of the local adjustments to keep in mind while traveling to Cluj Napoca, Romania .

The official language in Cluj Napoca is Romanian. Unlike the nearby Balkan countries, this is the only country in Eastern Europe  that has a Latin-based language. 

Romanian has a lot of similarities with languages such as Spanish and Italian. This means that if you speak one of these, then you'll probably be able to pick up a bit of Romanian, as well as understand some of signs and menus.

There are plenty of people in Cluj Napoca that do speak English. However, if you are from a country that speaks one of the latin-based languages, then you may want to try to communicate in your own language over English.

The currency used in  Romania is the Romanian Lei. Currently (March 2023) 1 USD or 1 Euro is equal to about 4.86 Romanian Lei. 

In Cluj Napoca you can use your credit card for most restaurants, as well as many hotels. However, we do suggest taking out some cash at an ATM for smaller mom and pop shops, tips, street vendors, and if you're staying at a budget hostel.

Romania  uses the same plug types as the rest of  Europe , which are types C & F. The standard voltage in  Romania is 230 V with a standard frequency of 50 Hz.

Water Potability

The tap water in Cluj Napoca is completely safe to drink. Many restaurants will give you bottled water when you order water, but this is typical throughout most of Europe . You can ask for tap water, and we also suggest bringing a refillable water bottle to take with you while exploring the city.

Tipping Culture

The tipping culture in  Romania varies depending on the service. We suggest tipping 10% on meals for good service, and a bit more for really great service . This is because servers don't make high salaries, and tipping is very typical in restaurants. For service oriented businesses such as salons, we suggest 10-15%, and for taxis and hotel staff you can leave 5-10 lei to appreciate their service.

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Things to Do in Cluj Napoca, Romania

Now that you know the basics of visiting Cluj Napoca, and Romania in general, let's get to the fun stuff. Here are some of the best things to do in Cluj Napoca.

Explore Piata Unirii Square

If it's your first time in Cluj Napoca, then this is the first place you'll want to go. Translated to "the people's square" this is the main plaza in the city. Full of restaurants and shops, this large open area if the heart of Cluj Napoca, and where the action happens.

Piața Unirii îs the center of the city, and one of the best things to do in Cluj Napoca.

Stop by the National Opera House

Cluj Napoca doesn't have a very long list of sightseeing, but if you're going to check out one building then this should be it. The National Opera House is just down the road from Piata Unirii, and has stunning architecture to admire.

The Opera House is one of the most beautiful buildings in Cluj Napoca.

Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral

Right across the national opera house is another beautiful building to check out, Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral. If you happen to visit on the weekend, then make sure to check out the small market in front with handmade crafts and local goods.

This cathedral also has a market on the weekends in front of it.

Check Out St Michaels Church

What would be a visit to Europe without seeing a million churches? Well, we don't feel the need to check out every single one while we're traveling, but we do like to mention the most important ones. St Michaels Church is a gothic style church that is the second largest in all of Transylvania, and definitely one of the top sites in Cluj Napoca.

St Michael's church is one of the top things to see in Cluj Napoca.

Take a Boat Ride at Central Park

Central Park is a large park in the center of Cluj Napoca. It may not be as big or impressive as the one in New York , but it definitely is a great place to enjoy some greenery and relax. Our favorite part of Central Park was the swan shaped boats that you can rent and row up and down the lake in the middle of the park.

You can rent boats to sail around the lake at Central Park.

Take in the Views From Parcul Cetățuia

Right around the corner from Central Park lies another park that is worth the visit. We think this is one of the best things to do in Cluj Napoca because of the hill in the middle offering stunning views of the city below. The climb up is short, scenic, rewarding. and is completely free of charge.

Want to take a walking tour to see the best spots in Cluj Napoca? Here are a few we've found for you:

Visit the Botanical Gardens

Another great green area to visit in the city is the Botanical Gardens of Cluj Napoca. They are part of Alexandru Borda Cluj Napoca University, and has a beautiful arrays of exotic flowers and plants. It's open from 8 am to 8 pm, and costs around 2 euros to enter.

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Bar Hop on Strada Piezisa

Looking for a fun night out? Well the student section of the city is lined with bars to choose from. So get dressed up and hop from one to another and get a feel of Romanian nightlife.

Browse the Local Markets

If you happen to be visiting Cluj Napoca on the weekend, then don't miss out on the Saturday farmers market. You can find everything from local honeys and jams, to handmade souvenirs and clothing. On the rest of the days of the week you can also check out the Central Market, with fresh produce, crafts, and more.

Head to the local markets to buy local products and handmade crafts.

Explore Salina Turda

This was one of our favorite places in all of Romania , and definitely a must for things to do in Cluj Napoca. 

Salina Turda is an underground salt mine that is about a half hour outside the city. When we first arrived we were impressed by the long halls underground. But little did we know that this place is so much more than that!

The salt mine hosts an entire underground amusement park with games, a Ferris wheel, and even boats rides! We suggest getting there early, as you could easily spend hours here. It opens at 9 am and closes at 5, so the activities start ending around 4. Tickets are 50 lei for adults on the weekdays, and 60 lei on the weekends. Senior tickets are 30 lei, as well as children and student tickets.

Salina Turda has a complete underground amusement park inside.

Want to book a tour to Salina Turda? Check out the tours we found below:

Visit Lake Tarnita

If you really want to explore more of the natural beauty around Cluj Napoca, you can visit Lake Tarnita. We saw tons of photos here, and even attempted to go. Unfortunately Google maps really failed us, and we ended up in the middle of nowhere, almost stuck on a dirt road. We suggest getting info from a local about visiting, and having a 4x4 to do so.

There is some beautiful nature just outside the city of Cluj Napoca.

Explore Nearby Cities in Transylvania

Transylvania is full of quaint cities, and Cluj Napoca is just a short 2 hour drive from two of our favorites.

This colorful and charming town is known for its "houses with eyes". From cobblestone squares to pastel painted buildings, we're sure you'll fall in love with this beautiful city. Make sure to climb the Council tower for amazing views, and stop by the various street vendors lined around the different squares.

This is another quaint town that is just a couple hours away. Located up winding steps, Sighisoara is also full of colorful buildings, churches, and stunning views at its top. Make sure to get lost in the cobblestone streets, and check out its plenty of local vendors.

Sighișoara is a great day trip from Cluj Napoca.

Have a Luxury Getaway

If you want a night outside of city life, you're in luck. There are quite a few stunning luxury getaways just outside of Cluj Napoca. Here are some of the different options to choose from.

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Raven's Nest

This is the perfect mountain hideaway, and is just 45 km west of Cluj Napoca. With cute cabins and jacuzzis surrounded by raw nature, this is the ultimate way to getaway.

Retreat Margau Apuseni

This getaway is nearby Raven's Nest, so is surrounded by similar landscapes. Retreat Margau Apuseni is an adults only luxury stay, and features a large outdoor pool, yoga, a spa, and all things wellness.

Skekelyko Mansion

This is the perfect getaway for those looking for an elegant boutique accommodation. Just an hour south of Cluj Napoca, this is also great for making your day trips to Sighisoara and Sibiu, without having to stay inside one of the cities.

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Want to look for places in the center of Cluj Napoca? Check the map below for the different options:

Moving Around Cluj Napoca

For checking out the best things to do in Cluj Napoca, things are all pretty much within walking distance. However, if you do want to cross from one end of the city to another, there are plenty of buses to take.

Taxis are also available, and for a ride sharing app (like Uber) you can download Bolt. We had a rental car, and found that it wasn't so easy to find parking. So we suggest if you drive that you should keep your car parked and walk if you can.

If you do want to explore the areas around Cluj Napoca, that's when renting a car surely will come in handy.

Rent a car in Cluj Napoca:

Food & Drink in Cluj Napoca

The cuisine in Romania is so rich and delicious. Transylvania was where we had some of our favorite meals, full of tender meat dishes, hearty soups, and quality breakfasts. 

Some of the dishes we recommend trying include Ciorba (a traditional soup), cabbage rolls, mici (minced meat rolls), and local meats like veal or ram. Another must is trying their amazing traditional dessert papanasi, which is similar to a fried dough doused with sour cream and jam.

When it comes to places to eat, we only had two meals in Cluj Napoca- both which are notably delicious. One of the best restaurants in Cluj Napoca recommended by locals is Roata, which had insanely large and delicious meat platters (super authentic food). We also highly suggest going to Eggcetera, where we had one of the best brunches ever (and get the shakshuka and salmon Benedict!). They had incredible food, large shared tables with pitches of water, and the friendliest staff you'll ever find.

Roata îs popular for its great local dishes.

Is Cluj Napoca Safe?

We hear a lot of bad things when it came to safety in Eastern  Europe , and are so happy to say that most of those things were not true at all, especially in  Romania ! 

We really found Cluj Napoca to be a very safe city, and didn't have any issues walking around solo or at night. This city is also a pretty big student town, so it's full of friendly young people and good vibes.

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Other Things to Know About Visiting Cluj Napoca, Romania

Now that you know what to do in Cluj Napoca, how to get around, and the best way to get there, let's discuss some final details! Here are a few other things to know about visiting the Cluj Napoca in Romania .

The Best Time to Visit Cluj Napoca

We personally think that the end of spring and beginning of fall is the best time to visit Cluj Napoca for perfect weather. We went in mid May and it was still pretty cold at night. But June is definitely a great month to visit, as well as September, when the heat isn't as intense. If you plan on visiting the beautiful nature outside of Cluj Napoca, these are also great months, as they aren't quite peak season, but all the snow on the mountains will have melted.

Weather & Packing for a Trip to Cluj Napoca, Romania

Cluj Napoca experiences all 4 seasons, so it gets very hot in the summer, and super cold in the winter. Depending on the time of year, will of course depend on how you should pick for you trip. We definitely suggest having layers as even in May it was cold at night.

Here are a few go-to items we pack when visiting cities:

• Nice Clothes  to go out in
• Sneakers or comfortable shoes
• Travel Adapter  (we use  Tessan travel adapters  as they are affordable and reliable)
• Water Bottle  (we use the  Cafago Insulated Water Bottle , as it holds the temperature well)
• Power bank  (we use  Anker power banks , as they are super long lasting and sturdy)

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Cluj Napoca is a small city, and most of the things to do in Cluj Napoca can actually be done in just a day. We suggest spending one day exploring Salina Turda, with an afternoon in the city center, and spending your other days by exploring the other great cities and nature in Transylvania.

Want to discover more awesome places throughout Romania ? We have plenty more travel guides coming soon. Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter to stay up to date on our new content and travel tips!

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13 Best Things To Do In Cluj-Napoca

Published: September 9, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Raina Mccartney

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Cluj-Napoca, the vibrant city located in the heart of Transylvania, Romania, is a hidden gem just waiting to be explored. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and thriving cultural scene, there is no shortage of things to do and see in this captivating city. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an avid foodie, or an outdoor adventurer, Cluj-Napoca has something to offer everyone.

In this article, we will uncover the 13 best things to do in Cluj-Napoca, from exploring ancient castles to indulging in delicious local cuisine. So, if you are planning a trip to Romania or simply looking for a new and exciting destination to visit, let’s dive in and discover the wonders that await you in Cluj-Napoca.

Explore the Historic Cluj-Napoca Central Square

Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Cluj-Napoca by strolling through the historic Central Square. Marvel at the beautifully preserved medieval architecture and enjoy the bustling cafes and shops that line the square. Don’t forget to visit the iconic St. Michael’s Church, a stunning Gothic masterpiece that dominates the skyline.

Visit the Cluj-Napoca Botanical Garden

Escape the city and find tranquility in the Cluj-Napoca Botanical Garden. Admire the diverse collection of plants and flowers, including rare species from all around the world. Take a leisurely walk along the peaceful paths, or simply relax and soak in the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Discover the Cluj-Napoca Art Museum

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Cluj-Napoca at the renowned Art Museum. Explore the extensive collection of Romanian art, ranging from traditional to contemporary, and be captivated by the diverse range of styles and mediums on display.

Sample Local Delicacies at the Cluj-Napoca Food Market

Indulge in the culinary delights of Cluj-Napoca by visiting the vibrant Food Market. Taste delicious local specialties such as traditional cheeses, cured meats, and mouthwatering pastries. Engage with local vendors and learn about the traditional food culture of the region.

Take a Trip to the Turda Salt Mine

Embark on a unique underground adventure by visiting the Turda Salt Mine. Explore the fascinating salt chambers and marvel at the impressive underground lake. Engage in activities such as paddle boating or mini-golf, and experience the mesmerizing ambiance of this hidden gem.

Wander Through the Museum Square

Discover the historical significance of Cluj-Napoca at the Museum Square. Take a leisurely stroll and admire the array of museums, including the National History Museum and the Ethnographic Museum. Learn about the rich heritage of the region and gain a deeper understanding of its cultural roots.

Attend a Performance at the Romanian National Opera

Experience the magic of live opera and ballet at the Romanian National Opera in Cluj-Napoca. Be mesmerized by the talented performers and the stunning productions staged in this splendid venue. Immerse yourself in the world of music and let the captivating performances leave you spellbound.

Hike to the Cetatuia Hill

Embark on an outdoor adventure and hike to the summit of Cetatuia Hill. Enjoy panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscapes as you challenge yourself with the ascent. Pack a picnic and take in the breathtaking scenery while enjoying a well-deserved break at the top.

Discover the Banffy Castle

Step back in time and explore the grandeur of the Banffy Castle. Admire the impressive architecture and immerse yourself in the rich history of this magnificent structure. Take a guided tour and learn about the noble families who once called this castle their home.

Shop for Souvenirs at the Craftsmen’s Fair

Support local artisans and shop for unique souvenirs at the Craftsmen’s Fair in Cluj-Napoca. Browse through a wide variety of handmade crafts, including traditional ceramics, textiles, and artwork. Take home a piece of Cluj-Napoca’s artistic heritage as a memento of your visit.

Visit the Cluj-Napoca Cathedral

Marvel at the splendor of the Cluj-Napoca Cathedral, a magnificent Orthodox church that stands as a symbol of religious significance. Admire the intricate frescoes and beautiful stained glass windows as you soak in the serene atmosphere of this architectural gem.

Explore the Cluj-Napoca Tailors’ Bastion

Dive into the city’s medieval past by visiting the Cluj-Napoca Tailors’ Bastion. Learn about the defensive strategies of the past as you explore the well-preserved fortification. Climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the city, revealing the perfect photo opportunity.

Take a Leisurely Walk Along the Somes River

Enjoy a peaceful stroll along the banks of the picturesque Somes River. Breathe in the fresh air and soak in the natural beauty that surrounds you. Take a moment to relax on one of the benches dotted along the riverbank and take in the tranquil ambience of this charming city.

1. What are the must-visit landmarks in Cluj-Napoca?

Some of the must-visit landmarks in Cluj-Napoca include the St. Michael’s Church, Cluj-Napoca Central Park, Cluj-Napoca Fortress, and the National Museum of Art.

2. What is the best time to visit Cluj-Napoca?

The best time to visit Cluj-Napoca is during the spring and autumn months (April to June and September to October) when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer tourists.

3. Are there any outdoor activities in Cluj-Napoca?

Absolutely! Cluj-Napoca offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking in the nearby Apuseni Mountains, cycling around the city, and enjoying picnics in the Central Park.

4. Can I explore Cluj-Napoca on foot?

Absolutely! Cluj-Napoca is a compact city, and most of the popular attractions are within walking distance of each other. Exploring the city on foot is a great way to soak in its charm and discover hidden gems.

5. What are some local dishes that I must try in Cluj-Napoca?

Some of the local dishes that you must try in Cluj-Napoca include “sarmale” (cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat and rice), “mici” (grilled minced meat rolls), and “papanasi” (a delicious Romanian dessert made of fried dough and topped with sour cream and jam).

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Cluj Tourism Information Center

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Cluj Tourism Information Center - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Sun - Sat 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• (0.03 mi) Kote Haus
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• (0.04 mi) Cluj Memorandumului Apartments
• (0.12 mi) DoubleTree by Hilton Cluj - City Plaza
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Cluj-Napoca: University Library

Cluj-Napoca: The Babeş-Bolyai University

Cluj-Napoca: The Church of the Piarists

Cluj-Napoca: Paleontology Museum

Cluj-Napoca: Mineralogical Museum

Cluj-Napoca: Tailors Bastion, Tower

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Cluj-Napoca: New York palace, Continental hotel

Cluj-Napoca: Bob Grec-Catholic church

Cluj-Napoca: Sebestyen house

Cluj-Napoca: Teachers house

Cluj-Napoca: Rhédey palace

Cluj-Napoca: Credit Bank, National Bank

Cluj-Napoca: Filstich house

Cluj-Napoca: Josika palace

Cluj-Napoca: The Old City-Hall

Cluj-Napoca: Wass Otilia house

Cluj-Napoca: The Folk-Art Museum

Cluj-Napoca: Austria-Hungary Bank

Cluj-Napoca: Redouta

Cluj-Napoca: Minorite Church, Greek Catholic cathedral

Cluj-Napoca: The Statue of King Mátyás

Cluj-Napoca: Nemes house

Cluj-Napoca: Szervatiusz Museum

Cluj-Napoca: Roman Catholic parish

Cluj-Napoca: The St Mihail Church

Cluj-Napoca: Mikes János palace

Cluj-Napoca: The Theatre

Cluj-Napoca: Teleki-Mikes palace

Cluj-Napoca: Justice palace

Cluj-Napoca: Karvazy house

Cluj-Napoca: UMP, the administration, Triska house

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Cluj-Napoca: Eppel house

Cluj-Napoca: Emil Isac memorial house

Cluj-Napoca: The Medicine-Historical Museum

Cluj-Napoca: The Birth-Place of King Mátyás

Cluj-Napoca: Evangelical-Lutheran Church

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Cluj-Napoca: The National Historical Museum of Transylvania

Cluj-Napoca: Farmers credit unions

Cluj-Napoca: Karolina column

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Cluj-Napoca: Mikes house

Cluj-Napoca: The Ninorite Church

Cluj-Napoca: Mint manufactory

Cluj-Napoca: The Orthodox Cathedral

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Cluj-Napoca: Transilvania Hotel

Cluj-Napoca: EMKE palace

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Cluj-Napoca: Reformed parish

Cluj-Napoca: Reformed Church with two towers

Cluj-Napoca: The Széky Palace

Cluj-Napoca: Szabo house

Cluj-Napoca: The Citadel

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Natural attractions, religious edifices, made in cluj, accommodation in cluj-napoca, accommodation in cluj county, transport and parkings, tourist information centers, travel agencies, 24h pharmacies, useful numbers, useful materials, discover cluj county.

     Cluj county, covering an area of approximately 6.700 square kilometres, is located in the Northwestern part of Romania, within the contact area of three natural units: Apuseni Mountains, Someşan Plateau and Transilvania Plain. Preserving prominent historical legacies and specific Transylvanian influences, places here distinguish themselves by diversity and extent, remaining imprinted in the memory of all who explore them.

     Cluj is among the most active counties in the cultural sector, being endowed with a valuable patrimony, an established reputation in education and culture, as well as prestigious institutions. The richness of monuments and historical spots, as well as the architectural and traditional heritage, most of all these included in the national circuit, stand for a certain and permanent tourism resource.

     Furthermore, Cluj county benefits of a high touristic potential, reflected in a wide range of leisure activities: backpacking, mountain-climbing, balneary treatment, winter and summer sports or youth camps. All these attractions of Cluj county qualify it as an ideal destination which offers multiple possibilities, both for spending free time, as well as concerns business development within various areas of activity.

    So, let’s start our unforgettable journey in Cluj county …

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