Arad on a Budget: 4 Days of Charm and Adventure

Get more bang for your buck on a budget trip to Arad, Romania.

21 June 2023

Arad, Romania is a charming city that offers a unique experience for budget travelers. One can explore the city's rich history, admire the beautiful architecture and indulge in authentic Romanian cuisine without breaking the bank. With affordable accommodation options and free attractions such as the Arad Fortress and the Neologue Synagogue, a trip to Arad is a budget-friendly adventure.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arriving in Arad

  • Check into Hotel Poesis, a budget-friendly hotel with charming decor.
  • Take a stroll through Piata Avram Iancu, a bustling square lined with cafes and shops.
  • Visit the Arad Art Museum, housed in a historic palace with impressive collections of Romanian and European art.
  • Walk the scenic paths of the Ioan Slavici Park and snap a photo at the picturesque lake.
  • Dine at Ceainaria Tabiet, a cozy tea house offering a range of teas and light bites.
Day 2

Exploring the City

  • Start the day with a visit to the impressive Arad Fortress, an 18th-century military bastion overlooking the Mures River.
  • Tour the Museum of the Arad Orthodox Church, showcasing Byzantine art, Orthodox icons and religious artifacts.
  • Stop at the beautifully restored Neo-Moorish Palace of Culture, a cultural center hosting concerts and exhibitions.
  • Relax in the Gradina Zoologica, Arad's small but charming zoo with a variety of animals and a petting zoo for kids.
  • Sample local cuisine at Restaurant Doina, serving traditional Romanian dishes like sarmale and mici.
Day 3

Day Trip to Timisoara

  • Take a day trip to Timisoara, Romania's third-largest city and home to impressive Baroque architecture.
  • Walk around Piata Unirii, a historic square surrounded by palaces and churches.
  • Visit the Timisoara Art Museum and admire its collections of Baroque sculpture and contemporary art.
  • Explore the ornate interior of the Banat Museum, showcasing the cultural and historical diversity of the region.
  • Grab a bite to eat at Hanul lui Guguta, a traditional Romanian restaurant serving hearty stews and soups.
Day 4

Outdoor Adventure

  • Take a hike in the Apuseni Mountains, a stunning natural retreat just a short drive from Arad.
  • Marvel at the stunning waterfall of Bigar Cascade, considered by some to be the most beautiful waterfall in the world.
  • Explore the underground world of Muierilor Cave, a mysterious network of tunnels and chambers with stalactites and stalagmites.
  • Trek through the stunning Cheile Nerei National Park, home to dense forests, clear rivers and hidden waterfalls.
  • End the day with dinner at Restaurant Viniloteca, a trendy spot serving Italian-inspired dishes and a large selection of wines.
  • Enjoy your trip to Arad, Romania!

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Arad, Romania by plane is to fly into Timisoara International Airport, which is located approximately 45 km from Arad. From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus to Arad.

Car

Driving to Arad, Romania is a convenient option, as the city is located near the E68 European road. It is approximately a 5-hour drive from Bucharest and a 3-hour drive from Cluj-Napoca. There are several car rental companies available at the Timisoara International Airport.

Train

There are regular trains from cities in Romania, such as Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca, to Arad. The Arad Train Station is located in the city centre and is easily accessible by public transportation or taxi.

Boat

Unfortunately, there is no direct route to Arad by boat as the city is located inland. The nearest port is the Port of Constanta, which is located on the Black Sea coast, approximately 900 km from Arad.

Bus

There are several bus companies that operate routes to Arad from major cities in Romania, including Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and Timisoara. The Arad Bus Station is located in the city centre and is easily accessible by public transportation or taxi.

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