Things To Do
in Petroşani

Petroşani is a small city located in the Jiu Valley of Romania, known for its rich mining history and stunning mountain scenery. Surrounded by the Parâng Mountains, it serves as a gateway for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure in the Carpathians. The city features a mix of modern amenities and historical architecture, reflecting its industrial past.

With a growing tourism sector, Petroşani is increasingly recognized for its potential as a destination for nature lovers and cultural explorers alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City and Surroundings
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the local museum, Muzeul Mineritului, to learn about the mining history of the region.

afternoon
:

Take a stroll in the city center, visit the historic churches, and enjoy lunch at a local café.

evening
:

Have dinner at a traditional Romanian restaurant and take a walk in the park to enjoy the evening ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Outdoor Adventures
morning
:

Head to the Parâng Mountains for a morning hike, enjoying the beautiful views and fresh mountain air.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Retezat National Park for more hiking opportunities or a picnic in nature.

evening
:

Return to the city for dinner and explore local bars or cafés for a taste of Petroşani's nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10-$20
Coffee$2-$4
🍕Pizza$5-$10
🚍Bus ticket$1
🏨Hotel night$30-$60

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural landscapes and outdoor activities
  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Affordable accommodation and dining options
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Language barrier for non-Romanian speakers
  • Public transport options may be limited
  • "Bună ziua" - Good day
  • "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
  • "Te rog" - Please
  • "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Ajutor!" - Help!

Places to Visit in Petroşani

Visit one of these nice places.

Parâng Mountains

Stunning mountain views, perfect for capturing breathtaking landscapes and nature photography.

The Old Mining Town

Historic architecture and remnants of the mining era provide unique photographic opportunities.

Retezat National Park

A natural paradise with pristine lakes and diverse wildlife, ideal for landscape and wildlife photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Petroşani

Petroşani offers a delightful culinary experience, featuring traditional Romanian dishes that reflect the region's rich cultural heritage.

Petroşani Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sarmale

Cabbage rolls stuffed with minced meat and rice, typically served with polenta.

Must-Try!

Mămăligă

A traditional cornmeal dish similar to polenta, often served as a side with stews and meats.

Ciorbă de burtă

A hearty tripe soup with a tangy flavor, often served with sour cream and hot peppers.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Petroşani Market

A vibrant market where locals sell fresh produce, meats, and homemade goods, perfect for sampling local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Petroşani experiences a continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. Average winter temperatures can drop below freezing, while summers can reach highs of 30°C (86°F). Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with summer thunderstorms being common. Spring and autumn are generally mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is customary when meeting someone, and it's polite to greet with 'Bună ziua' (Good day).

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites; casual wear is acceptable in most other settings.

Respect for Traditions

Show respect for local customs and traditions, especially during cultural events and festivals.

Safety Guide

Safety

Petroşani is relatively safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and securing personal belongings. It's advisable to stay informed about local conditions, especially when hiking in the mountains.

Tipping in Petroşani

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants, and rounding up is appreciated in cafés and bars.

Payment Methods

Major credit cards are accepted in most establishments, but carrying cash (RON) is advisable for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild weather and blooming flowers make it a perfect time for hiking and outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm temperatures attract tourists for mountain excursions, though be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Vibrant fall colors create stunning landscapes, great for photography and enjoying nature walks.

Winter

Cold temperatures with snowfall offer opportunities for winter sports and cozy indoor experiences.

Nightlife Guide

Petroşani at Night

Petroşani has a modest nightlife scene with a few bars and pubs offering a relaxed atmosphere. Local establishments often feature live music, and you can enjoy drinks with friends or engage with the friendly locals. While not as vibrant as larger cities, the nightlife provides a unique experience to unwind after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Petroşani

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Retezat National Park Trails

These trails offer various hiking experiences, from easy walks to challenging hikes, showcasing the park's breathtaking scenery.

Parâng Mountains Trail

A popular hiking trail known for its stunning panoramic views and diverse flora and fauna, suitable for outdoor enthusiasts.

Airports

How to reach Petroşani by plane.

Hugh Kearns Airport (Craiova)

Located approximately 160 km from Petroşani, this airport offers domestic flights and a few international connections, making it the nearest major airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Petroşani is a walkable city, particularly in the downtown area where most attractions, shops, and restaurants are located. Sidewalks are available, and pedestrian zones make it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas may require transportation to reach due to the city's hilly terrain.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Romanian Ethnic Group

The majority of the population is Romanian, with deep cultural ties to the country's history and traditions.

Hungarian Minority

A small percentage of the population belongs to the Hungarian minority, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is a popular sport in the region, with local teams that engage in competitive leagues.

Skiing

With access to nearby ski resorts, skiing is a favored winter sport for both locals and visitors.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Petroşani is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, though schedules may vary. During peak hours, minor congestion can occur, especially near the city center.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Petroşani.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

While traditional Romanian cuisine is meat-heavy, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, and vegan options are becoming more common.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options may be limited, but some establishments are accommodating and can provide alternatives upon request.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Petroşani includes several local hospitals and clinics providing basic medical services. The main hospital, Spitalul Municipal Petroșani, is equipped for emergencies and general healthcare needs. Tourists are recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and to visit private clinics for faster service if necessary.

Discover Romania

Read more in our Romania 2025 Travel Guide.

Romania Travel Guide