Things To Do
in Petroşani
Petroșani is a mid-sized city in Romania’s Jiu Valley, surrounded by the Carpathian foothills. It grew from a coal-mining hub and now serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures in the Parâng Mountains. The town blends industrial heritage with a growing tourism scene, including hikes, mountain views, and local eateries.
Its location makes it a convenient base for exploring the wider Hunedoara County and the surrounding nature.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Retezat National Park, where you can hike amidst breathtaking landscapes. The fresh mountain air and scenic views will invigorate you as you wander through the stunning trails. Don't forget to capture the stunning views for your travel memories.
After a morning of exploration, head to the nearby town of Uricani for a leisurely lunch. Enjoy local Romanian dishes at a cozy restaurant, taking a moment to rest and recharge for the afternoon. Once you finish your meal, visit the local museums to learn more about the area’s mining history.
As night falls, return to Petroşani and unwind at one of the local cafés. Sip on a traditional Romanian coffee while planning your next day’s adventure. The charming atmosphere and friendly locals provide the perfect backdrop to reflect on your day.
Begin this cultural journey by exploring the Petroşani ethnographic museum, where you can discover the rich heritage of the region. Engage with interactive exhibits and learn about the traditions that shaped the local community. The morning offers a peaceful and engaging way to absorb your surroundings.
After the museum, take a leisurely stroll through the town center, stopping at local shops for unique handmade crafts. Enjoy a lunch made from locally sourced ingredients at a nearby bistro, allowing you to savor the flavors of Romanian cuisine. Take your time to appreciate the vibrant street life and the stories each shop tells.
Once it's evening, treat yourself to a performance at the local theater, showcasing traditional Romanian music and dance. The vibrant performances highlight the cultural practices of the region, leaving you mesmerized. Afterward, enjoy a late dinner at a quaint local eatery, savoring the culinary delights of the area.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥗Three-course meal for two | $25-40 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-70 |
| 🚆Public transportation ticket (one-way) | $0.60-1.50 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Gateway to the Parâng Mountains and outdoor adventures
- Generally affordable costs and friendly locals
- Relatively compact town with easy access to nature
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Certain services can be basic in smaller venues
- Winter driving can be challenging on mountain roads
- "Bună ziua" - Hello / Good day
- "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
- "Vă rog" - Please
- "Unde este...?" - Where is...?
- "Cât costă?" - How much does it cost?
- "Vorbiți engleză?" - Do you speak English?
- "Nu vorbesc româna foarte bine" - I don't speak Romanian very well
- "Scuzați-mă" - Excuse me
Places to Visit in Petroşani
Visit one of these nice places.
A sweeping panorama of the Jiul Valley and the Parâng range, best captured at sunrise or golden hour.
Colorful street scenes, architectural contrasts, and pedestrian-friendly lanes ideal for street photography.
Quiet riverside scenes with reflections, especially in the early morning or late afternoon light.
Food in Petroşani
Petroşani Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tangy tripe soup common across Romania; try it at traditional restaurants for a filling starter.
Must-Try!
Creamy cornmeal with cheese and sour cream; a staple comfort dish often served as a base for stews.
Cabbage rolls stuffed with seasoned meat and rice, typically enjoyed with polenta and a dollop of sour cream.
Fried or boiled doughnuts topped with sour cream and fruit jam for a classic Romanian dessert.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Traditional market offering fresh produce, dairy, meats, and regional snacks; great for a quick meal on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple 'Bună ziua' (hello) and a handshake are common; use 'dumneavoastră' for formal address.
Dress modestly and speak softly when visiting churches or monasteries.
Avoid overly loud conversations in public spaces; show courtesy and patience in service interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Petroşani
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants a tip of 5-10% for good service is common; rounding up the bill is also appreciated in casual places.
Cash and cards are widely accepted in towns; some smaller eateries may be cash-only, so carry local currency (RON) and have a card as backup.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with fresh greenery; occasional showers—bring a light rain jacket and sturdy footwear for early hikes.
Warm days with cooler mountain evenings; good for hiking and outdoor meals. Stay hydrated and watch for afternoon storms in higher elevations.
Crimson and gold foliage with comfortable temperatures; ideal for city walks and forest trails.
Cold and snowy in the mountains; prepare for icy roads and layered clothing; skiing and snowshoeing are popular in the Parâng area.
Petroşani at Night
Hiking in Petroşani
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging hike to the Parâng Mountains' highest peak; alpine scenery and panoramic views.
Scenic river valley walk with forest sections and viewpoints along the Jiul River.
A network of trails from the Rânca resort area offering forest paths and high-altitude vistas.
Airports
How to reach Petroşani by plane.
Major international hub in the region; connections to many European cities; access Petroșani by train or bus.
Regional airport with frequent European flights; road or rail transfer to Petroșani.
Western Romania gateway with international connections; onward travel to Petroșani by road or rail.
Romania’s largest airport; longer transfer to Petroșani but feasible for longer itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnicity; working-age residents and families.
Present in many towns throughout Romania; part of the regional cultural landscape.
People traveling for work or education in the surrounding Jiu Valley and Horezu Basin.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed nationwide; local clubs and stadiums are common in the region.
Popular in schools and clubs; casual leagues and community courts are common.
Active in the Parâng mountains during winter with nearby resorts and rental shops.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Petroşani.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Romanian dishes can be adapted to vegetarian versions; look for soups, polenta with cheese, salads, bean dishes, and fresh dairy. When in doubt, ask for vegetable stews or mushroom-based plates.