Things To Do
in Drobeta-Turnu Severin

Drobeta-Turnu Severin is a picturesque city located on the banks of the Danube River in Romania. It boasts a rich history dating back to Roman times, with remnants of ancient architecture and monuments. The city serves as a gateway to the stunning Iron Gates Natural Park, offering breathtaking views and outdoor activities.

Drobeta-Turnu Severin is also known for its vibrant local culture, making it an attractive destination for travelers looking to explore both history and nature.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring History and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Drobeta-Turnu Severin Museum to learn about the local history and see Roman artifacts.

afternoon
:

Take a leisurely stroll along the Danube River promenade, enjoying the scenic views and stopping by the Trajan's Bridge ruins.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant, enjoying traditional Romanian dishes, followed by a walk to the illuminated water fountain in the city center.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Head to the Iron Gates Natural Park for a guided hiking tour, marveling at the stunning landscapes.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Porțile de Fier Natural Park to explore the natural wonders and possibly spot some wildlife.

evening
:

Relax at a café along the river, enjoying local pastries while watching the sunset over the Danube.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Mid-range Restaurant$15
Coffee$2
🍕Pizza Slice$3
🚕Taxi Ride (within the city)$5
🏨Budget Hotel per Night$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Affordable cost of living compared to other European destinations.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation may be less frequent.
  • Language barrier for those not speaking Romanian.
  • "Bună ziua" - Hello
  • "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
  • "Scuzați-mă" - Excuse me
  • "Vorbiți engleză?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Drobeta-Turnu Severin

Visit one of these nice places.

Trajan's Bridge

A historical Roman bridge that offers stunning views of the Danube, particularly beautiful during sunrise and sunset.

Iron Gates Natural Park

A breathtaking landscape of cliffs and the Danube River, ideal for nature photography.

The Water Fountain of Drobeta

A stunning illuminated fountain at night, perfect for capturing vibrant colors and reflections.

Culinary Guide

Food in Drobeta-Turnu Severin

Drobeta-Turnu Severin offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional Romanian dishes and local specialties.

Drobeta-Turnu Severin 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

A cornmeal porridge that is a staple in Romanian cuisine, often served with cheese and sour cream.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Drobeta Market

A bustling market where locals buy fresh produce, meats, and cheeses. A great spot to sample street food like mici (grilled sausages).

Climate Guide

Weather

Drobeta-Turnu Severin experiences a temperate continental climate. Summers (June to August) are warm to hot, with temperatures averaging 25-30°C (77-86°F). Winters (December to February) are cold, with temperatures ranging from -5 to 5°C (23-41°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild, with pleasant temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with the wettest months typically in spring and autumn.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone new, often accompanied by direct eye contact.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin, and it’s polite to finish everything on your plate.

Dress Code

Dress neatly, especially when dining out or attending events; casual wear is acceptable but avoid overly revealing clothing.

Safety Guide

Safety

Drobeta-Turnu Severin is generally considered safe for tourists, but it's always wise to stay aware of your surroundings. Keep valuables secure and avoid poorly lit areas at night. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, may occur in crowded places. It's recommended to have travel insurance and know the location of the nearest hospital.

Tipping in Drobeta-Turnu Severin

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but having some cash (RON) is advisable for smaller shops and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Warm weather attracts tourists, ideal for river activities and exploring parks, but can get crowded.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage create picturesque landscapes, suitable for hiking.

Winter

Cold weather may limit outdoor activities, but the city is quieter and festive decorations can be enjoyed.

Nightlife Guide

Drobeta-Turnu Severin at Night

Drobeta-Turnu Severin has a vibrant nightlife scene with various bars and clubs catering to different tastes. The city features a mix of traditional pubs, modern bars, and live music venues. Popular spots include local taverns where you can enjoy folk music and dance, as well as clubs that play contemporary music. The Danube promenade also comes alive in the evenings, offering a scenic backdrop for socializing.

Hiking in Drobeta-Turnu Severin

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cheile Nerei-Beușnița National Park Trails

These trails offer spectacular views of waterfalls, gorges, and diverse wildlife, suitable for various skill levels.

Mount Lainici Trail

A moderately challenging trail that leads to breathtaking views of the surrounding area, perfect for experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Drobeta-Turnu Severin by plane.

Craiova Airport (CRA)

Located approximately 120 km from Drobeta-Turnu Severin, this airport connects to major Romanian cities and offers limited international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Drobeta-Turnu Severin is quite walkable, especially in the city center where most attractions are located. The streets are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian pathways are available along the Danube promenade. However, some areas outside the center may require public transport or taxis to access. Sidewalks are present, but not all areas may be suitable for those with mobility issues.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Romanians

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

Hungarian Minority

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

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is extremely popular in the region, with local clubs drawing passionate supporters.

Handball

Handball is also popular, with local teams competing in national leagues and drawing community interest.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Drobeta-Turnu Severin is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or foot. Public transportation options include buses that connect various parts of the city, although schedules may vary. Parking is available in the city center, but it can be limited during peak hours. Biking is also a popular alternative for getting around.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Drobeta-Turnu Severin.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options, but it's advisable to check with the staff regarding preparation methods.

Gluten-Free

Some places can accommodate gluten-free diets, but options may be limited; communication with staff is essential.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Drobeta-Turnu Severin are adequate, with several public and private hospitals available. The largest facility is the Drobeta-Turnu Severin County Hospital, which offers emergency services as well. Pharmacies are widely available, and many staff members speak some English. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical services.

Discover Romania

Read more in our Romania 2025 Travel Guide.

Romania Travel Guide