Things To Do
in Bacău

Bacău is a vibrant city located in the eastern part of Romania, known for its rich history and beautiful architecture. It serves as an important cultural and economic hub in the Moldavia region. The city features a mix of modern amenities and historical landmarks, making it a fascinating destination for travelers.

With its friendly locals and picturesque surroundings, Bacău offers a unique glimpse into Romanian life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Bacău
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the George Bacovia Memorial House, dedicated to the famous Romanian poet. Explore the surrounding park and enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café.

afternoon
:

Visit the Bacău History Museum to learn about the city's past and its significance in the region. Stroll through the city center and take pictures of the beautiful architecture.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Romanian restaurant followed by a leisurely walk along the Bistrița River.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Head to the nearby Slănic Moldova, a popular spa town, for a morning hike and enjoy the fresh mountain air. Stop by a local eatery for a quick brunch.

afternoon
:

Return to Bacău and visit the St. Nicholas Church, a stunning example of Moldavian architecture. Explore the local shops and markets for souvenirs.

evening
:

Experience the nightlife at a local bar, enjoying live music and mingling with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10-20
Coffee$1-3
🚌Public transportation ticket$0.50
🏨Hotel night$30-70
🛍️Souvenir$5-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
  • Limited English-speaking locals in some areas.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent than in larger cities.
  • Some attractions may require prior arrangements or guided tours.
  • "Bună ziua" - Hello
  • "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
  • "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Cât costă?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Ajutor!" - Help!

Places to Visit in Bacău

Visit one of these nice places.

Bacău City Hall

An impressive building with beautiful architecture, perfect for capturing the essence of the city.

St. Nicholas Church

A stunning church known for its intricate details and beautiful surroundings.

Bistrița River

A picturesque location for sunset photography, offering scenic views of the water and cityscape.

Culinary Guide

Food in Bacău

Bacău's culinary scene offers a delightful mix of traditional Romanian flavors and modern dining experiences, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Bacău Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Mămăligă

A traditional cornmeal porridge, often served with cheese and sour cream.

Must-Try!

Sarmale

Cabbage rolls stuffed with a mixture of meat and rice, typically served with polenta.

Ciorbă de burtă

A sour tripe soup, seasoned with vinegar and served with sour cream.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Bacău Market

A bustling market where locals sell fresh produce, meats, and artisanal products.

Street Vendors

Various vendors around the city offer delicious snacks like covrigi (pretzels) and mici (grilled sausages).

Climate Guide

Weather

Bacău experiences a temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Summers are warm to hot, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F). Spring and autumn are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A firm handshake and maintaining eye contact is a common way to greet someone.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin the meal before starting to eat.

Dress Code

Dressing neatly is appreciated, especially in restaurants and cultural venues.

Safety Guide

Safety

Bacău is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as in any city, it's advisable to take standard precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings in crowded places.

Tipping in Bacău

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of about 10-15% in restaurants and cafes.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make this an ideal time to explore parks and gardens.

Summer

Warm weather encourages outdoor activities and festivals, though it can get quite hot.

Autumn

Cool temperatures and vibrant foliage provide a beautiful backdrop for photography and hiking.

Winter

Cold temperatures with occasional snowfall create a picturesque winter landscape, perfect for cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Bacău at Night

Bacău offers a lively nightlife scene with a variety of bars, clubs, and lounges. The city is known for its friendly atmosphere, where locals and tourists mingle over drinks and live music. Popular areas include the city center and around the parks, where you can find venues featuring everything from traditional Romanian music to modern DJ sets.

Hiking in Bacău

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cascada Durău

A beautiful waterfall located about 25 km from Bacău, surrounded by lush forests and hiking trails.

Ceahlău National Park

Famous for its stunning landscapes and diverse flora and fauna, this park offers various hiking routes for different skill levels.

Airports

How to reach Bacău by plane.

George Enescu International Airport (BCM)

Located approximately 10 km from Bacău, this airport offers domestic and limited international flights, making it convenient for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Bacău is relatively walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrians can easily navigate the streets. However, some areas may have steep inclines, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Romanians

The majority of the population is Romanian, with a rich cultural heritage and traditions.

Hungarian Minority

A small percentage of the population identifies as Hungarian, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Bacău, with several local teams and a passionate fan base.

Handball

Handball also enjoys popularity, with local teams competing in national leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Bacău can be moderate, especially during rush hour. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, which are affordable and provide good coverage of the city. It's advisable to check local schedules for buses, as they may not run as frequently as in larger cities.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Bacău.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Romanian cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants offer vegetarian alternatives.

Gluten-Free Options

It's advisable to check with restaurants in advance for gluten-free meals.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Bacău are accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available for emergencies and general care. It's advisable for travelers to have health insurance and to consider bringing necessary medications, as some specific treatments may not be readily available.

Discover Romania

Read more in our Romania 2025 Travel Guide.

Romania Travel Guide