Things To Do
in Curtea de Argeş

Curtea de Argeş is a historic town in Romania, known for its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage. It served as the capital of Wallachia during the 14th century and is home to the famous Curtea de Argeş Monastery, a masterpiece of Romanian Byzantine architecture. Nestled in the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains, it offers beautiful landscapes and a tranquil atmosphere.

The town is a gateway to exploring the natural beauty and historical sites of the surrounding region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Historical Heart
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Curtea de Argeş Monastery, known for its stunning frescoes and intricate architecture.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby ruins of the old royal court and the Princely Church, where you can learn about the town's royal history.

evening
:

Finish your day with a leisurely walk along the Argeş River and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the nearby Vidraru Dam for breathtaking views and photo opportunities.

afternoon
:

Take a hike in the surrounding hills, exploring local trails that lead to stunning vistas.

evening
:

Return to town for a traditional Romanian dinner and enjoy the local nightlife at a nearby bar or café.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$10
Coffee at a café$2
🚕Taxi fare within the city$3
🍺Local beer$2
🛒Grocery shopping for a week$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly local population.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transportation can be sparse.
  • English may not be widely spoken outside tourist areas.
  • "Bună ziua" - Good day
  • "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
  • "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Cât costă?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Îmi pare bine să te cunosc" - Nice to meet you

Places to Visit in Curtea de Argeş

Visit one of these nice places.

Curtea de Argeş Monastery

Capture the intricate details of this magnificent monastery with its stunning frescoes and picturesque surroundings.

Vidraru Dam

A breathtaking viewpoint overlooking the dam and the surrounding mountains, ideal for panoramic shots.

The Old Royal Court

The remnants of the old royal court provide a historical backdrop for photography, surrounded by lush greenery.

Culinary Guide

Food in Curtea de Argeş

Curtea de Argeş offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing the flavors of Romanian cuisine through its local dishes and eateries.

Curtea de Argeş 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 mix of meat and rice, a staple of Romanian cuisine.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Curtea de Argeş Market

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

Climate Guide

Weather

Curtea de Argeş experiences a temperate-continental climate, with distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Summers (June to August) are warm, averaging around 25°C (77°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild, making it ideal for outdoor exploration.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

When meeting someone, a firm handshake and maintaining eye contact is customary.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before you begin eating. It’s polite to try everything offered.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Casual attire is acceptable in most other settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Curtea de Argeş 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.

Tipping in Curtea de Argeş

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is not included. For taxi drivers, rounding up to the nearest lei is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit cards, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller shops and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the local parks.

Summer

Summer is warm and ideal for hiking, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn

Autumn offers beautiful foliage, making it a picturesque time for photography and enjoying nature.

Winter

Winter can be cold with snow, creating a magical atmosphere, especially around the mountains.

Nightlife Guide

Curtea de Argeş at Night

Curtea de Argeş has a relaxed nightlife scene with a few bars and cafes where locals gather. The atmosphere is friendly, and you can find live music on weekends in some venues. For a more vibrant experience, consider visiting nearby cities like Pitești.

Hiking in Curtea de Argeş

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Transfăgărășan Highway Trail

A challenging yet rewarding hike along the famous Transfăgărășan road, known for its stunning mountain views.

Buila-Vânturarița National Park Trails

Various trails within this national park offer beautiful landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and varying levels of difficulty for hikers.

Airports

How to reach Curtea de Argeş by plane.

Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP)

Located about 120 km from Curtea de Argeş, this is the main international airport serving Bucharest and the surrounding region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Curtea de Argeş is quite walkable, with many attractions located within a short distance of each other. The town features paved sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas, making it easy to explore on foot. However, be aware of some steep areas if you venture into the hills.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Romanians

The majority of the population consists of ethnic Romanians, contributing to the rich cultural fabric of the town.

Hungarians

There is a small community of ethnic Hungarians, adding diversity to the local culture and traditions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Curtea de Argeş, with local teams participating in regional leagues.

Tennis

Tennis is also popular, with several clubs and facilities available for both recreational and competitive play.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Curtea de Argeş is typically mild, with the majority of movement occurring on local roads. Public transportation includes buses and taxis, but services may be limited, especially in the evenings. It is advisable to explore the town on foot or by bicycle.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Curtea de Argeş.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian meals; however, it's advisable to check with staff regarding the ingredients.

Gluten-Free Options

While gluten-free options are becoming more common, it’s best to communicate your needs clearly to avoid any issues.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Curtea de Argeş are basic, with a few hospitals and clinics available. For more serious medical issues, larger cities like Pitești are recommended. It’s advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical needs.

Discover Romania

Read more in our Romania 2025 Travel Guide.

Romania Travel Guide