Things To Do
in Craiova

Craiova, Romania is a vibrant city located in the Oltenia region, known for its rich history and cultural heritage. It boasts beautiful architecture, including the stunning Nicolae Romanescu Park and the iconic Craiova Botanical Garden. The city is also a hub for education and arts, with several universities and museums.

With its friendly locals and lively atmosphere, Craiova offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

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

Start your day with a visit to Nicolae Romanescu Park, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll and admire the natural beauty.

afternoon
:

Visit the Craiova Art Museum, housed in a former royal palace, to appreciate Romanian art and history.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant in the city center, experiencing traditional Romanian cuisine.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Explore the Oltenia Museum to learn about the local culture and history of the Oltenia region.

afternoon
:

Wander through the historic city center, visiting landmarks like the Cathedral of Craiova and the University of Craiova.

evening
:

Catch a performance at the Craiova National Theatre, showcasing local talent and productions.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚕Taxi ride$5
🥖Loaf of bread$0.50
🍺Local beer$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Friendly locals and vibrant atmosphere
  • Affordable cost of living
  • Public transportation can be limited
  • Some areas may lack tourist infrastructure
  • Language barrier for non-Romanian speakers
  • "Bună ziua" - Good day
  • "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
  • "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Cât costă?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Ajutor!" - Help!

Places to Visit in Craiova

Visit one of these nice places.

Nicolae Romanescu Park

A picturesque park with stunning landscapes, perfect for nature photography.

Craiova Botanical Garden

An expansive garden featuring diverse plant species, ideal for capturing vibrant floral shots.

University of Craiova

The historic university building showcases beautiful architecture, providing a great backdrop for photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Craiova

Craiova is a culinary delight with a mix of traditional Romanian dishes and modern gastronomy. Be sure to try local specialties that reflect the region's rich agricultural heritage.

Craiova Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sarmale

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

Must-Try!

Mămăligă

Cornmeal porridge that is a staple in Romanian cuisine, often served with cheese or sour cream.

Ciorbă de burtă

A sour tripe soup flavored with vinegar and garlic, popular among locals.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercat Craiova

A bustling local market where you can find fresh produce, meats, and traditional Romanian snacks.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls around the city offering fast food like mici (grilled sausages) and langos (fried dough).

Climate Guide

Weather

Craiova experiences a temperate-continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Average temperatures in summer can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures can drop to around -5°C (23°F). Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for travel.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting Customs

A handshake is common when greeting someone, and maintaining eye contact is important.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin the meal before you start eating.

Dress Code

Dress modestly and appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Craiova is generally safe for tourists, but it's wise to take basic precautions. Avoid displaying valuables in public and be cautious in crowded areas. It's also advisable to use registered taxis for transportation at night.

Tipping in Craiova

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to leave a tip of around 10% in restaurants and cafes.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it an ideal time for outdoor exploration.

Summer

Hot weather with plenty of sunshine; perfect for enjoying parks and outdoor cafes.

Autumn

Cool temperatures and beautiful fall colors; great for photography and outdoor activities.

Winter

Cold weather with occasional snow; local festivities add charm to the city.

Nightlife Guide

Craiova at Night

Craiova's nightlife is vibrant with various bars, clubs, and lounges. You can find everything from traditional pubs to modern dance clubs, catering to different tastes. The city comes alive after dark, especially on weekends, with live music and events drawing locals and tourists alike.

Hiking in Craiova

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cozia National Park

Located about 60 km from Craiova, offering various trails and stunning mountain views.

Buila-Vânturarița National Park

Approximately 80 km away, known for its scenic landscapes and diverse flora and fauna.

Airports

How to reach Craiova by plane.

Craiova International Airport

Located about 7 km from the city center, it offers domestic and limited international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Craiova is quite walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian zones make it easy to explore without the need for a car.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

A significant number of students reside in Craiova due to its universities, contributing to a youthful atmosphere.

Local Families

Many local families have deep roots in Craiova, often participating in cultural and community events.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Craiova, with the local team, Universitatea Craiova, having a passionate fan base.

Handball

Handball is also popular, with local clubs competing in national leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Craiova can vary, with peak hours often leading to congestion in the city center. Public transportation options include buses and trams, which are affordable and cover most areas of the city, making it easy to navigate without a car.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Craiova.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, including salads and mămăligă.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free dishes are less common, but some restaurants can accommodate with advance notice.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Craiova are available through public hospitals and private clinics. Emergency services are accessible, but it's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses. Pharmacies are widespread and offer a range of medications.

Discover Romania

Read more in our Romania 2025 Travel Guide.

Romania Travel Guide