Discover Cluj-Napoca's Rich History in One Day

Discover the charm of Transylvania in Cluj-Napoca, Romania.

22 April 2023

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.

Day trip plan

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Day

Tracing the Historical Roots of Cluj-Napoca

  • Start the day with a traditional Romanian breakfast at Livada Restaurant, serving fresh pastries, eggs, sausages, and coffee.
  • Stroll down the charming cobblestone streets of the Old Town, admiring the colorful architecture of Catholic and Orthodox Churches.
  • Visit the iconic St. Michael's Church, a Gothic masterpiece dating back to the 14th century, with an impressive bell tower that offers panoramic views over the city.
  • Head to the Botanical Garden, a lush oasis in the heart of Cluj-Napoca, with over 10,000 plant species, ponds, sculptures, and a greenhouse.
  • Take a break for lunch at Samsara Foodhouse, a trendy vegan restaurant serving creative dishes like beetroot burgers, tempeh tacos, and jackfruit curry.
  • Continue the cultural immersion at the National Museum of Transylvanian History, showcasing artifacts and exhibits from prehistoric times to the present day, including the Roman occupation of the region.
  • Note: Don't forget to try some local specialties like sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), mici (grilled minced meat rolls), or palinca (plum brandy) throughout the day.

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.

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