Things To Do
in Ploieşti

Ploieşti, Romania, is an important city located in the southern part of the country, known for its rich history and vibrant cultural scene. It is often referred to as the oil capital of Romania due to its significant oil industry, which has played a crucial role in the city's development. With beautiful parks, historical architecture, and a thriving local community, Ploieşti attracts visitors looking to explore Romanian culture and heritage.

The city's strategic location also makes it a convenient base for exploring nearby attractions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Ploieşti's Heritage
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Palace of Culture, an architectural marvel housing several museums, including the Museum of Art and the Museum of History.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local bistro, then head to the Historical Museum of Ploieşti to learn about the city's past. Stroll through the beautiful Toma Socolescu Park for a relaxing afternoon.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Romanian restaurant and experience local dishes, followed by a walk around the city center to enjoy the evening atmosphere.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Local Life
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a local café, then visit the Beautiful Hill (Dealul Mare) for panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.

afternoon
:

Explore the nearby Bucov Park, where you can enjoy leisure activities and visit the zoo. Have lunch at one of the park's eateries.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit with dinner at a wine bar, sampling local wines, and enjoy the nightlife by visiting a local pub for live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10
Coffee$1.50
🚌Public transport ticket$0.50
🏨Hotel night stay$50
🍺Beer$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage.
  • Delicious traditional cuisine.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited English proficiency among locals.
  • Less touristy compared to other Romanian cities.
  • Some areas may lack modern amenities.
  • "Bună ziua" - Hello
  • "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
  • "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Cât costă?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Ajutor!" - Help!

Places to Visit in Ploieşti

Visit one of these nice places.

Palace of Culture

An iconic landmark with stunning architecture, perfect for capturing the essence of Ploieşti.

Toma Socolescu Park

A serene park offering beautiful landscapes and sculptures, ideal for nature photography.

Beautiful Hill (Dealul Mare)

A lookout point with breathtaking views of the city and surrounding areas, especially at sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Ploieşti

Ploieşti offers a delightful culinary experience with a variety of traditional Romanian dishes that reflect the region's rich heritage.

Ploieşti Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sarmale

Cabbage rolls stuffed with a mixture of minced pork, rice, and spices, often served with sour cream.

Must-Try!

Mămăligă

A cornmeal dish similar to polenta, typically served as a side with various stews or cheese.

Ciorbă de burtă

A traditional tripe soup flavored with vinegar and sour cream, known for its unique taste.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Piața Centrală

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

Climate Guide

Weather

Ploieşti has a temperate continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers are warm to hot, with average temperatures around 30°C, while winters can be quite cold, often dropping below 0°C. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella regardless of the season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A firm handshake is the common way to greet someone, and it is polite to maintain eye contact.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to invite you to sit down before taking a seat at the dining table.

Dress Code

Dress modestly and appropriately, especially when visiting religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Ploieşti is generally considered a safe city for tourists. However, travelers should remain vigilant and take standard precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded places, so it's wise to be cautious in busy areas.

Tipping in Ploieşti

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants and cafes if the service is satisfactory.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but cash is recommended for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make spring a lovely time to visit. Enjoy outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Summer can be hot, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C. It's perfect for exploring parks and outdoor cafes.

Autumn

The fall brings cooler weather and beautiful foliage. It's an excellent time for hiking and enjoying local harvest festivals.

Winter

Winters are cold with occasional snowfall. Visiting during this time allows for a cozy atmosphere and seasonal events.

Nightlife Guide

Ploieşti at Night

Ploieşti offers a vibrant nightlife with a mix of pubs, clubs, and bars. The city has venues featuring live music, DJ performances, and themed parties, making it appealing to both locals and tourists. Popular areas include the city center and around university campuses, where young crowds gather. Many places stay open late, providing a lively atmosphere for socializing and enjoying the local nightlife culture.

Hiking in Ploieşti

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cheile Doftanei

A beautiful natural reserve with stunning rock formations and trails suitable for hiking and nature walks.

Culmea Penteleu

A challenging hiking trail that offers breathtaking views and a chance to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the region.

Airports

How to reach Ploieşti by plane.

Henri Coandă International Airport

Located about 45 kilometers from Ploieşti, this is the main international airport serving Bucharest and the surrounding region, providing connections to various destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Ploieşti is quite walkable, particularly in the city center where most attractions, cafes, and shops are located within a short distance of each other. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian zones are common, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some neighborhoods may not be as pedestrian-friendly, so it’s advisable to plan your walking routes ahead of time.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing demographic in Ploieşti, with many young people moving to the city for job opportunities, particularly in the oil and gas industry.

Students

With several universities in the area, students form a significant part of the local population, contributing to the vibrant culture and nightlife.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Ploieşti, with local teams competing in national leagues and drawing enthusiastic support from fans.

Basketball

Basketball also enjoys popularity, with local clubs participating in regional tournaments and events throughout the year.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Ploieşti can vary, with congestion during peak hours, especially near the city center and major roadways. Public transportation includes buses and trams, which are generally reliable and affordable. Biking is also an option, with some designated lanes, though walking remains a popular and practical way to navigate the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Ploieşti.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Ploieşti offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about meat stock in soups and sauces.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are available, but it’s recommended to inform the staff about dietary needs to ensure proper meal preparations.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Ploieşti has a range of healthcare facilities, including public hospitals and private clinics. Emergency services are available, and it’s advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers medical expenses. Pharmacies are also widely available for obtaining medications and health supplies.

Discover Romania

Read more in our Romania 2025 Travel Guide.

Romania Travel Guide