Things To Do
in Petrila

Petrila is a small town located in the Hunedoara County of Romania, nestled in the scenic Jiu Valley. Known for its rich mining history, Petrila offers a unique glimpse into the industrial past of the region. The town is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, making it an excellent base for outdoor activities and exploration.

Visitors can enjoy the blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage that this charming town has to offer.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Petrila
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and shop for fresh produce.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of the Petrila Coal Mine Museum to learn about the town's mining history.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring traditional Romanian cuisine.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Hike the nearby Jiu Valley Nature Reserve to immerse yourself in the stunning natural surroundings.

afternoon
:

Visit the historical Church of St. Nicholas for a dose of local culture and architecture.

evening
:

Relax at a café with live music, enjoying the evening ambiance of Petrila.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🚌Public transport ticket$1
🏨Hotel night stay$30
🍕Fast food meal$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly locals and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Public transport may not be frequent.
  • Language barrier for non-Romanian speakers.
  • "Bună ziua" - Good day
  • "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
  • "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Cât costă acesta?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Ajutor!" - Help!

Places to Visit in Petrila

Visit one of these nice places.

Petrila Coal Mine Museum

Capture the industrial architecture and exhibits showcasing the town's mining heritage.

Jiu Valley Landscape

Stunning views of the valley, perfect for landscape photography.

Church of St. Nicholas

A beautiful historical church with intricate details, ideal for architectural shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Petrila

Petrila boasts a delightful array of traditional Romanian dishes and local flavors that every visitor should sample.

Petrila Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sarmale

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

Must-Try!

Mămăligă

Cornmeal porridge that is a staple in Romanian cuisine, often served as a side dish.

Ciorbă de burtă

A traditional sour tripe soup, seasoned with vinegar and garlic.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Petrila Market

A lively market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Petrila experiences a temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm and pleasant, with temperatures averaging between 25-30°C (77-86°F). Winters can be cold, with temperatures dropping to -10°C (14°F) and occasional snowfall. Spring and autumn provide mild weather, ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is a common form of greeting; it is polite to greet elders first.

Dining Etiquette

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

Dress Code

Casual attire is acceptable, but dressing modestly is appreciated, especially in religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Petrila is generally a safe town, with low crime rates. However, standard travel precautions should be observed, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure. Always stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places.

Tipping in Petrila

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants; rounding up is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

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

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.

Summer

Warm weather is perfect for hiking and exploring the surrounding nature.

Autumn

The changing foliage offers beautiful landscapes and a comfortable climate for sightseeing.

Winter

Cold temperatures may bring snow, making it an excellent time for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Petrila at Night

Petrila has a modest nightlife scene, with a few bars and cafés offering live music and a relaxed atmosphere. Locals often gather in these places to socialize and enjoy drinks, making it a great way to experience the local culture. However, the nightlife is not as vibrant as in larger cities, providing a more laid-back experience.

Hiking in Petrila

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Buila-Vânturarița National Park

A national park with well-marked trails, offering stunning views and diverse wildlife.

Retezat National Park

Known for its rugged mountains and alpine lakes, this park features challenging trails for experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Petrila by plane.

Sibiu International Airport

Located approximately 120 km from Petrila, this airport offers domestic and international flights, making it the nearest major airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Petrila is a small town, making it very walkable. Most attractions, markets, and restaurants are within a reasonable distance of each other. Walking is a popular way to explore the town and enjoy the local scenery.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Romanians

The majority of the population consists of ethnic Romanians, who maintain traditional customs and culture.

Hungarians

A smaller demographic group, particularly in the region, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is a widely followed sport in Petrila, with local teams playing in community leagues.

Handball

Handball is also popular, with various clubs and events held throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Petrila is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options are limited, but local buses connect to nearby towns. Visitors are encouraged to use taxis or rideshare apps for convenience.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Petrila.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, including salads and mămăligă.

Gluten-Free

While options may be limited, it is possible to find gluten-free dishes; just ask the restaurant staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Petrila are available through local clinics and hospitals, but for more extensive medical care, residents often travel to nearby larger cities. It is advisable for travelers to have health insurance and access to medical assistance if needed.

Discover Romania

Read more in our Romania 2025 Travel Guide.

Romania Travel Guide