Things To Do
in Iaşi

Iaşi is one of the oldest cities in Romania, known as a cultural and educational hub. It is home to the prestigious University of Iaşi, which attracts students from all over the country and beyond. The city is rich in history, featuring stunning architecture and numerous museums that reflect its past.

Visitors can enjoy a vibrant arts scene and beautiful parks, making Iaşi a delightful destination for travelers.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day at the Palace of Culture, a stunning neo-Gothic building that houses several museums. Explore the history of the region and enjoy the beautiful architecture.

afternoon
:

Visit the Golia Monastery, a historic site with an impressive clock tower. Afterward, stroll through the Copou Park, one of the city’s largest parks, and visit the Mihai Eminescu Museum.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant and then take a walk through the city center, admiring the illuminated buildings and vibrant atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Local Life and Nature
morning
:

Begin your day at the Union Museum to learn about the union of the Romanian principalities. Then, explore the nearby botanical garden for a peaceful retreat.

afternoon
:

Head to the Trei Ierarhi Monastery and enjoy its intricate stonework. Afterward, visit the local markets to taste some local delicacies.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a cozy café in the city center followed by live music at one of the local bars.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🍺Local beer$1.50
🚌Public transport ticket$0.50
🛒Grocery shopping (1 week)$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage.
  • Vibrant student life and nightlife.
  • Beautiful parks and outdoor spaces.
  • Public transportation can be limited.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Romanian speakers.
  • Limited options for international cuisine.
  • "Bună ziua" - Good day
  • "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
  • "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Vorbiți engleză?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Ajutor!" - Help!

Places to Visit in Iaşi

Visit one of these nice places.

Palace of Culture

Iconic neo-Gothic architecture and beautiful surrounding gardens make this a prime spot for photography.

Golia Monastery

The historic monastery and its clock tower provide stunning backdrops for photos.

Copou Park

A scenic park with lush greenery, ideal for capturing nature shots and serene landscapes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Iaşi

Iaşi offers a rich culinary landscape, blending traditional Romanian flavors with regional specialties.

Iaşi Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sarmale

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

Must-Try!

Mămăligă

A polenta-like dish, often served as a side with various meals.

Ciorbă de burtă

A sour tripe soup, flavored with vinegar and egg yolk.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Piața Centrală

The central market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and street food stalls offering traditional snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Iaşi experiences a temperate continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter temperatures can drop to -5°C (23°F). Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with the wettest months typically being May and June.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A handshake is the common form of greeting, and it's polite to address people with their titles.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for your host to start the meal before you begin eating, and it’s customary to say 'Poftă bună' (Enjoy your meal).

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially in religious sites and formal settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Iaşi is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's advisable to stay vigilant, especially in crowded areas and public transport. Keep an eye on personal belongings and avoid poorly lit areas at night.

Tipping in Iaşi

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip 10-15% in restaurants, and rounding up your bill is appreciated in cafes.

Payment Methods

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

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a lovely time to explore parks and gardens.

Summer

Warm weather is perfect for outdoor cafes and festivals, but expect occasional rain.

Autumn

Fall foliage creates picturesque landscapes, ideal for photography and outdoor walks.

Winter

Cold temperatures with snowfall can create a magical atmosphere, especially around Christmas.

Nightlife Guide

Iaşi at Night

Iaşi boasts a lively nightlife scene with a variety of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The city comes alive in the evenings, particularly in the student areas, where you can find trendy bars serving cocktails and local wines. Many venues host themed nights and live performances, making it easy to experience the local culture.

Hiking in Iaşi

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Ceahlău Massif

A beautiful hiking area located about 2 hours from Iaşi, offering stunning views and various trails for different skill levels.

Bicaz Gorge

Famous for its dramatic cliffs and scenic landscapes, this hiking destination is approximately 2.5 hours away from Iaşi.

Airports

How to reach Iaşi by plane.

Iaşi International Airport (IAS)

Located approximately 8 km from the city center, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it convenient for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Iaşi is a walkable city with many attractions located within walking distance in the city center. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian areas are common. Exploring on foot allows visitors to discover hidden gems and local shops along the way.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

University Students

A significant demographic in Iaşi, contributing to the city’s vibrant atmosphere and cultural scene.

Local Families

Many families reside in Iaşi, enjoying the city's parks and educational resources.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Iaşi, with local teams drawing enthusiastic crowds during the season.

Handball

Handball also enjoys popularity in Iaşi, with several clubs and a strong local following.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Iaşi can be congested during peak hours, especially near the city center. Public transportation includes buses and trams, which are affordable and cover most areas. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available for convenience.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Iaşi.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to inquire about specific ingredients.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options are limited, but some restaurants prepare specific meals upon request.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Iaşi is accessible, with several public and private hospitals available. Emergency services are prompt, and most medical staff speak some English. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance and know where to find medical facilities in case of emergencies.

Discover Romania

Read more in our Romania 2025 Travel Guide.

Romania Travel Guide