Things To Do
in Aiud

Aiud is a charming town located in the heart of Transylvania, Romania, known for its rich history and picturesque landscapes. The town is surrounded by the beautiful Apuseni Mountains and is home to several historical landmarks, including the famous Aiud Fortress. With a population of around 20,000, Aiud offers a unique blend of traditional Romanian culture and modern conveniences.

Visitors can enjoy a relaxed pace of life while exploring the local sights and indulging in delicious cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Historical Heart of Aiud
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Aiud Fortress, exploring its ancient walls and learning about its history.

afternoon
:

Visit the Aiud Museum to see exhibitions about the region's cultural heritage and then stroll through the charming streets of the town center.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, savoring traditional Romanian dishes while enjoying live folk music.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a hike in the nearby Apuseni Mountains, where you can enjoy stunning views and the beauty of nature.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby village of Rimetea, known for its white houses and beautiful landscape, and explore its local artisan shops.

evening
:

Return to Aiud for a relaxing evening at a café, sipping on local wine and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🍕Fast Food Meal$5
🚌Public Transport Ticket$0.50
🏨Hotel Night$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Stunning natural landscapes surrounding the town.
  • Affordable cost of living and dining.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may not be as frequent.
  • Fewer international dining options available.
  • "Bună ziua" - Good day
  • "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
  • "Te rog" - Please
  • "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Cât costă?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Aiud

Visit one of these nice places.

Aiud Fortress

Capture the majestic views of the fortress set against the backdrop of the mountains.

The Old Town Center

A picturesque area with traditional architecture, perfect for street photography.

Rimetea Village

The scenic views of the white houses against the green hills make for stunning landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Aiud

Aiud offers a delightful culinary experience, with a variety of traditional dishes that reflect the region's rich agricultural heritage.

Aiud Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sarmale

Cabbage rolls filled with minced meat and rice, often served with sour cream.

Must-Try!

Mămăligă

Cornmeal porridge, typically served as a side dish with cheese or meat.

Ciorbă de burtă

A unique tripe soup with a tangy flavor, often garnished with sour cream.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Aiud Farmer's Market

A vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and homemade pastries.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls throughout the town offer quick bites like mici (grilled sausages) and langos (fried dough).

Climate Guide

Weather

Aiud has a temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm, with temperatures averaging 25°C (77°F), while winters can be cold, with temperatures dropping below 0°C (32°F). Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with slightly higher precipitation in summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is a common greeting, and it is polite to greet everyone when entering a room.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin eating before you start, and it's customary to offer thanks after meals.

Respect for Traditions

Show appreciation for local customs and traditions, especially during festivals and religious events.

Safety Guide

Safety

Aiud is generally a safe town for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure. Always be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places.

Tipping in Aiud

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but having cash is advisable for local markets and smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming nature; perfect for hikes and outdoor exploration.

Summer

Warm weather ideal for outdoor activities, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures with beautiful fall foliage, making it a great time for photography.

Winter

Cold weather with potential snowfall, offering opportunities for winter sports in the nearby mountains.

Nightlife Guide

Aiud at Night

The nightlife in Aiud is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, but it offers a few cozy bars and restaurants where locals gather. You can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere with live music on weekends. Traditional folk music and dance events are also common, allowing visitors to experience Romanian culture in an engaging way.

Hiking in Aiud

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Băița Ridge Trail

A moderately challenging trail that offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.

Scărișoara Cave Trail

A scenic hike leading to the famous glacier cave, ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Airports

How to reach Aiud by plane.

Avram Iancu Cluj International Airport

Located about 100 km from Aiud, this is the nearest major airport, offering both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Aiud is quite walkable, with most attractions located within a short distance from each other in the town center. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian areas make it easy to explore on foot. The town's compact size allows for leisurely strolls while soaking in the local atmosphere.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Romanians

The majority of the population consists of ethnic Romanians, who maintain traditional customs and language.

Hungarians

A significant Hungarian minority also resides in Aiud, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in the region, with local teams playing in community leagues.

Handball

Handball is also quite popular, with many young people participating in local clubs and competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Aiud is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include local buses that connect to nearby towns, though schedules may vary. Parking is available, but it can be limited in the town center during peak hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Aiud.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, though options may be limited.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free meals are not widely available; it's advisable to inform the restaurant staff of dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Aiud is accessible, with a local hospital and several clinics offering basic medical services. For more specialized care, residents often travel to larger cities such as Alba Iulia. Emergency services are available, and pharmacies are present throughout the town.

Discover Romania

Read more in our Romania 2025 Travel Guide.

Romania Travel Guide