Things To Do
in Târgu Jiu

Târgu Jiu is a city located in the Gorj County of Romania, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes. It is famously home to the works of the artist Constantin Brâncuși, which are celebrated for their unique modernist style. The city serves as a gateway to the scenic Carpathian Mountains and the picturesque surrounding countryside.

With a blend of historical sites, vibrant local traditions, and a welcoming atmosphere, Târgu Jiu offers visitors an authentic Romanian experience.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Art and History
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Endless Column, a monumental sculpture by Constantin Brâncuși that symbolizes the sacrifice of the Romanian soldiers in World War I.

afternoon
:

After lunch, explore the nearby Brâncuși Park, which houses several of his other famous sculptures, including the Table of Silence and the Gate of the Kiss.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and then take a leisurely stroll along the Jiu River to enjoy the evening ambiance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin with breakfast at a local cafe, then head to the local museum, the Museum of Art, to learn more about the region's history and cultural artifacts.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon hiking in the nearby Parâng Mountains, taking in the breathtaking views and natural beauty.

evening
:

Return to the city for dinner at a traditional Romanian tavern, followed by a visit to one of the local bars to experience Târgu Jiu's nightlife.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$10-$15
Coffee$1-$2
🍺Local beer$2-$3
🚍Public transport ticket$0.50
🛍️Grocery shopping for a week$25-$40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage with unique art and monuments
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities
  • Welcoming locals and affordable cost of living
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Public transportation may not be as frequent
  • Language barrier for those not speaking Romanian
  • "Bună ziua" - Hello
  • "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
  • "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "Cât costă?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Ajutor!" - Help!

Places to Visit in Târgu Jiu

Visit one of these nice places.

Endless Column

A striking sculpture by Constantin Brâncuși that offers a unique perspective and is emblematic of the city.

Brâncuși Park

The park features several of Brâncuși's works amidst beautifully landscaped gardens, perfect for capturing artistic shots.

Jiu River

The riverbanks provide a scenic backdrop for photography, especially at sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Târgu Jiu

Târgu Jiu offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing traditional Romanian dishes that reflect the region's rich agricultural heritage.

Târgu Jiu Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sarmale

Cabbage rolls filled with minced meat and rice, often served with sour cream.

Must-Try!

Mămăligă

A cornmeal porridge that is a staple in Romanian cuisine, typically served with cheese and sour cream.

Ciorbă de burtă

A traditional tripe soup, known for its sour taste and rich flavors.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Târgu Jiu Market

A bustling local market where you can find fresh produce, local cheeses, and street food.

Street Vendors

Various vendors offer quick bites like mici (grilled sausages) and cozonac (sweet bread) throughout the city.

Climate Guide

Weather

Târgu Jiu experiences a temperate continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) are cold, with temperatures often falling below freezing, while summers (June to August) are warm and can reach up to 30°C (86°F). Spring and autumn see mild temperatures, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting Customs

A firm handshake is a common greeting; maintain eye contact.

Dining Etiquette

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

Dress Codes

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Târgu Jiu is generally considered a safe city for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Târgu Jiu

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants and cafes.

Payment Methods

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

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Temperatures start to warm up, making it ideal for outdoor activities and visiting parks.

Summer

Warm weather attracts tourists, and local festivals often take place, vibrant with culture.

Autumn

The foliage changes color, offering stunning landscapes perfect for photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures may limit outdoor activities, but the city lights up beautifully during the holiday season.

Nightlife Guide

Târgu Jiu at Night

Târgu Jiu's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, with a mix of pubs, bars, and clubs. Many locals enjoy gathering in casual bars, sipping local beers or wine. For those looking for dancing, clubs typically feature a mix of local and international music, offering a lively atmosphere until the early hours.

Hiking in Târgu Jiu

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Parâng Mountains Trail

A scenic hiking trail that offers breathtaking views and a moderate level of difficulty, suitable for most hikers.

Retezat National Park Trails

These trails provide access to some of Romania's most stunning landscapes, featuring diverse flora and fauna.

Airports

How to reach Târgu Jiu by plane.

Craiova Airport

Located approximately 110 km from Târgu Jiu, it serves domestic and international flights, making it the nearest major airport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Târgu Jiu is a walkable city with pedestrian-friendly streets, especially around the central area where most attractions are located. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and many local shops and cafes are within walking distance, making it easy to explore on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Romanians

The majority of the population is ethnically Romanian, with a rich cultural heritage.

Hungarians

There is a small Hungarian community, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in Târgu Jiu, with local teams attracting many fans.

Handball

Handball also enjoys popularity, with various local clubs participating in regional competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Târgu Jiu is generally manageable, especially compared to larger cities. Public transportation includes buses that connect key areas, and taxis are also available for hire. Visitors are advised to use public transport or walk when possible to avoid parking issues.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Târgu Jiu.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check the menu beforehand.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free options are limited; it's recommended to communicate dietary needs clearly to the staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Târgu Jiu are accessible, with several public and private hospitals available. Pharmacies are also widespread, offering both prescription and over-the-counter medications. It is advisable for travelers to have health insurance that covers international care.

Discover Romania

Read more in our Romania 2025 Travel Guide.

Romania Travel Guide