Things To Do
in Moisei

Moisei is a picturesque village located in the Maramureș County of Romania, nestled in the heart of the Rodna Mountains. Known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage, it serves as a gateway to traditional Romanian life. The village is famous for its wooden churches, which are UNESCO World Heritage sites, and its proximity to beautiful hiking trails.

Visitors to Moisei can experience the warmth of local hospitality amidst breathtaking mountain views and lush greenery.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore the Village and Nature
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Moisei Monastery, a peaceful retreat with stunning architecture and views. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the village to admire the traditional wooden houses.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a picnic lunch at the nearby Izvorul Albastru River, and then embark on a short hike in the surrounding Rodna Mountains to experience the local flora and fauna.

evening
:

Savor dinner at a local restaurant where you can try traditional Romanian dishes, followed by a peaceful evening walk under the stars.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Outdoor Adventure
morning
:

Visit the wooden church of Moisei, one of the landmarks of the village, before heading to the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and shop for handcrafted souvenirs.

afternoon
:

Take a guided hiking tour to the nearby Pietrosul Rodnei Peak, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Carpathian Mountains.

evening
:

Return to the village for a traditional Romanian dinner followed by a folk music performance, allowing you to immerse yourself in local culture.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10-$15
Coffee$1-$3
🚌Public transport ticket$0.50-$1
🏕️Camping fee$5-$10
🛒Groceries for a week$30-$50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Breathtaking natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Rich cultural heritage and tradition.
  • Welcoming and hospitable local community.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Language barrier for non-Romanian speakers.
  • Public transportation can be limited.
  • "Bună ziua" - Hello
  • "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
  • "Te rog" - Please
  • "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ajutor!" - Help!

Places to Visit in Moisei

Visit one of these nice places.

Moisei Monastery

Capture the serene beauty of this monastery set against a backdrop of rolling hills.

Pietrosul Rodnei Peak

A stunning viewpoint offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Wooden Churches

Photograph the intricate details of the UNESCO-listed wooden churches dotted around the village.

Culinary Guide

Food in Moisei

Moisei offers a delightful culinary experience with its rich array of traditional Romanian dishes, perfect for food lovers.

Moisei Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sarmale

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

Must-Try!

Mămăligă

A cornmeal porridge often served as a side dish, similar to polenta.

Ciorbă de burtă

A sour tripe soup, typically flavored with vinegar and garnished with sour cream.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Moisei Market

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

Street Vendors

Enjoy local street food such as mititei (grilled sausages) and langosi (fried dough).

Climate Guide

Weather

Moisei experiences a temperate continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), while winters can drop to -10°C (14°F) or lower. Spring and autumn are transitional seasons with mild temperatures and occasional rain, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Respect for Traditions

Be respectful of local customs and traditions, especially during festivals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Moisei is generally a safe destination with low crime rates. However, travelers should take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and securing valuables. It's advisable to have travel insurance and be aware of local emergency numbers.

Tipping in Moisei

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants, and rounding up the fare for taxi drivers is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but many places also take credit cards; ensure to have some cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect blooming flowers and mild temperatures, perfect for hiking and outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm weather makes it ideal for exploring nature, although it can get crowded with tourists.

Autumn

Enjoy beautiful fall foliage and harvest festivals, with cooler temperatures.

Winter

Cold and snowy, this season is perfect for winter sports and enjoying a cozy atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Moisei at Night

Moisei offers a relaxed nightlife scene, primarily centered around local taverns and restaurants where folk music is played. While there are no large clubs, locals enjoy gathering for social drinks and traditional music, providing a glimpse into the local culture. Visitors can enjoy a quiet evening with friends or participate in community events during special occasions.

Hiking in Moisei

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Căldarea Zmeilor

A beautiful hiking trail leading to a scenic basin surrounded by cliffs, perfect for nature lovers.

Pietrosul Rodnei Trail

A challenging hike that takes you to the highest peak in the Rodna Mountains, offering breathtaking views.

Airports

How to reach Moisei by plane.

Baia Mare Airport

Located about 80 km from Moisei, this airport offers domestic flights and some international connections, making it the nearest major airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Moisei is a small village that is highly walkable, with most attractions and amenities located within a short distance of each other. The charming streets are lined with traditional houses, making for a pleasant walking experience. However, some nearby hiking trails may require transportation.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Romanian Ethnic Majority

The majority of residents in Moisei are ethnic Romanians, preserving traditional customs and language.

Hungarian Minority

A small community of ethnic Hungarians also resides in the area, contributing to the cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in the region, with local teams competing in community leagues.

Winter Sports

During the winter, skiing and snowboarding attract both locals and tourists to nearby resorts.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Moisei is minimal, given its small population and rural setting. Public transportation includes buses that connect to nearby towns, although schedules may vary. Visitors are encouraged to rent a car or use taxis for exploring the area more conveniently.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Moisei.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Many dishes can be adapted for vegetarians, such as mămăligă and vegetable soups.

Gluten-Free

Some local dishes, like polenta, are naturally gluten-free, but always check with the restaurant.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Moisei are basic, with a local clinic available for minor health issues. For more serious medical needs, residents and visitors may need to travel to larger towns like Sighetu Marmației. It's advisable to have health insurance and to bring any necessary medications.

Discover Romania

Read more in our Romania 2025 Travel Guide.

Romania Travel Guide