Cluj-Napoca: The Ultimate 5-Day Budget Getaway

Discover Romania's hidden gem without breaking the bank in Cluj-Napoca.

21 June 2023

Cluj-Napoca is a vibrant city in the heart of Transylvania that makes for an excellent budget-friendly vacation destination. You can explore the city's stunning architecture, visit historic museums and cultural attractions, and savor the local cuisine without breaking the bank. Some of the top budget-friendly activities to try in Cluj-Napoca include visiting the Botanical Garden, exploring the Salina Turda salt mine, and taking a walking tour of the city's historic landmarks.

Save and get deals

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Exploring the Historic Quarter

  • Check into the charming and affordable Hotel Transylvania
  • Wander around the historic quarter for a dose of quaint architecture
  • Visit the imposing St. Michael's Church and admire its Gothic features
  • Take a stroll down Strada Horea and Strada Avram Iancu for some shopping
  • Visit the Ethnographic Museum for a taste of Romanian culture
  • Dine at Roata restaurant for traditional Romanian food with a modern twist
Day 2

Discovering the Wonders of Nature

  • Get up early and catch a bus to the Apuseni Mountains
  • Hike through the stunning Cheile Turzii canyon for breathtaking views
  • Admire the Emil Racovita Speleology Institute and explore its fascinating cave system
  • Continue hiking to the Ponor Meadow and marvel at its stunning beauty
  • Take lots of photos of the dramatic landscape and the wildlife
  • Retreat to Hotel Transylvania and have a cozy dinner at their on-site restaurant
Day 3

A Trip to Vlad the Impaler's Fortress

  • Take a day trip to Bran Castle, famously known as Dracula's Castle.
  • Learn about the life of Vlad the Impaler, the dark inspiration behind Bram Stoker's novel
  • Take in the spine-tingling views from the high walls of the fortress
  • Stop at the charming Sighisoara Medieval Citadel for an insight into the country's history
  • Visit the Clock Tower Museum for a glimpse into the city’s medieval heritage
  • Dine at Casa Cu Flori, a charming restaurant near the citadel's fortified walls
Day 4

A Relaxing Day in the City

  • Treat yourself to a massage at one of the city's many spas.
  • Visit the National Museum of Art for an immersive experience of Romanian art
  • Take a leisurely stroll around one of the city's many parks.
  • Have lunch at Casa Ardeleana, a charming restaurant in the historic quarter
  • Stop by the Transylvania Botanic Garden and breathe in some fresh air
  • Watch a movie at Cinema City, one of the city's top cinemas
Day 5

Indulging in Some Local Flavors

  • Visit the vibrant Piata Cipariu farmer's market, which offers fresh local produce
  • Take a cooking class and learn how to make local delicacies like sarmale or mititei
  • Have lunch at Marty’s Pub, known for its delicious burgers and craft beers.
  • Explore the city's street art scene, including the famous paintbrush on the buildings
  • Head to Euphoria Biergarten for a cozy night of local craft beers, live music and good vibes.

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Cluj-Napoca, Romania is by flying into Cluj-Napoca International Airport (CLJ) from major cities like London, Paris, Barcelona and Frankfurt.

Car

Driving to Cluj-Napoca, Romania from nearby cities like Budapest and Bucharest is a great option. You can rent a car from major car rental companies like Hertz and Avis, and take E60 or E576 highways to get to Cluj-Napoca.

Train

There are various options for taking the train to Cluj-Napoca, Romania. One option is to take a train from Budapest Keleti railway station to Cluj-Napoca railway station. Another option is to take a train from Bucharest North railway station to Cluj-Napoca railway station.

Boat

There are no direct routes by boat to Cluj-Napoca, Romania due to its inland location, but you can take a cruise along the Danube River and stop in cities like Budapest or Belgrade, and then take a bus or train to Cluj-Napoca.

Bus

One of the easiest and most affordable ways to get to Cluj-Napoca, Romania is by taking a bus from major cities like Budapest and Bucharest. Companies like Flixbus offer direct routes to Cluj-Napoca.

Destination

Cluj-Napoca

Welcome to the land of Dracula and goulash, where the streets of Cluj-Napoca are paved with Transylvania gold, and the only thing more plentiful than castles are the stray dogs.

 Save and get deals

Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

A Romantic Day Trip to Cluj-Napoca

Cluj-Napoca is the perfect destination for an enchanting romantic getaway. With its picturesque streets, beautiful parks, and elegant cafes, you and your partner will feel transported to another world. Immerse yourself in the culture and history of this fascinating city while creating unforgettable memories with your significant other.

Discover Cluj-Napoca's Rich History in One Day

A trip to Cluj-Napoca, Romania offers an eclectic mix of old-world charm and modern attractions. Visitors can explore historical landmarks such as the St. Michael's Church and the Gothic-style Banffy Palace, or delve into the city's thriving cultural scene at the National Theatre or the Museum of Art. Foodies can also indulge in traditional Romanian cuisine and explore the trendy cafes and bars in the city's vibrant nightlife scene.

A Day in Enchanting Cluj: Family-Friendly Adventures Await

Cluj-Napoca, a charming city in Romania, offers an ideal destination for a family-friendly trip. This vibrant city is known for its rich history, stunning architecture and diverse cultural attractions. Families can enjoy exploring the enchanting Botanical Garden, visiting the interactive National Museum of Transylvanian History, and indulging in traditional Romanian cuisine at the local markets.

5-Day Romantic Escape to Cluj-Napoca, Romania

Cluj-Napoca, Romania is a beautiful destination for a romantic getaway. With its stunning architecture and rich history, Cluj-Napoca offers plenty of opportunities to explore hand in hand with your loved one. From enjoying traditional Romanian cuisine to strolling through beautiful parks and botanical gardens, this city has everything you need for a romantic vacation.