Things to do in Cluj-Napoca, Romania
Known as the heart of Transylvania, Cluj-Napoca, Romania is a laid-back but vibrant city. Here, you will find a foodie’s paradise and plenty of fun things to do.
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Cluj-Napoca, Romania, is one European destination that I believe is highly underrated among solo female travellers. My visit coincided with one of the city's many festivals, the Cluj Street Food Festival.
I was captivated by the booming culinary scene and the beautiful sights throughout this charming city. Whether you're a solo adventurer or someone seeking unique travel experiences, there are plenty of meaningful things to do in Cluj Romania .
Parcul Central, Cluj Romania
1. Central Park (Parcul Central)
Cluj's Central Park, Parcul Central, is a lovely place to relax and unwind. The park features a picturesque lake where you can rent paddle boats, beautiful walking paths, and plenty of green spaces. The lake is situated in front of a gorgeous manor building that houses a café, adding to the park’s charm and appeal. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely afternoon.
2. Cluj Old Town
When you are looking for things to do in Cluj , make sure you don’t miss a visit to Cluj’s Old Town during your time in this destination. The main square, Piața Unirii, is surrounded by beautiful architecture, including the stunning St. Michael's Church, a Gothic masterpiece dating back to the 14th century. Take a leisurely stroll and admire the mix of Baroque, Renaissance, and modern buildings.
The nightlife is vibrant with pubs, restaurants, and beer gardens. One night, we were able to enjoy lively street performers putting on a spectacular show for those of us passing by.
3. The Cluj Botanical Gardens
The Cluj Botanical Gardens, or the Alexandru Borza Cluj-Napoca University Botanic Gardens, are a must-visit when you are in Cluj. The grounds are over 30 acres, housing Japanese gardens, Roman gardens, and over 10,000 species of plants. As you make your way through the various gardens, you will reach the large greenhouse that houses beautiful hothouse plants.
Cluj Street Food Festival 2023 in Cluj Romania
4. Attend a Festival
Cluj hosts several festivals throughout the year, attracting visitors from all over the world. The most famous is the Untold Festival, one of Europe’s biggest electronic music festivals. Other notable events include the Transylvania International Film Festival (TIFF) and the Cluj Street Food Festival.
To find out more about my experience at the Cluj Street Food Festival, check out this article here.
Conacul Secuiesc-Székelykő Kúria , Rimetea, Romania
Hotel Belvedere is a popular place to stay in Cluj-Napoca and offers amazing views of the city.
5. Hiking to Belvedere Hotel in Cluj Romania
One of the charming things about Cluj-Napoca is the blend of urban and natural beauty. Highlighting this aspect is a gorgeous hike up to Belvedere Hotel.
This trail takes you through lush greenery and panoramic views of the city below. As you make your way to the top, you find yourself in a serene escape from the bustling city life below.
Reaching the Belvedere Hotel, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking view that showcase Cluj's skyline. Whether you're an avid hiker or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, the journey to Belvedere Hotel promises an unforgettable experience that highlights the natural splendor of Cluj.
You can find the trailhead at Strada General Dragalina 68, Cluj-Napoca .
A beautiful view overlooking the city of Cluj Romania
6. Visit the Art Museum
Art lovers should not miss the Cluj-Napoca Art Museum, housed in the impressive Bánffy Palace. The museum's collection includes Romanian and international art, with works ranging from medieval to contemporary. It’s a great way to spend a few hours immersed in creativity.
Ethnographical Museum of Transylvania, Reduta Palace, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
7. Ethnographical Museum of Transylvania
The Ethnographical Museum of Transylvania holds thousands of objects from rural life over the course of hundreds of years. The museum is split into two locations: The Reduta Palace and the open air portion at The Ethnographic Park Romulus Vuia.
The Ethnographic Park Romulus Vuia houses a number of traditional buildings and farms, beautifully capturing the image of traditional rural life in Romania.
Turda Salt Mines, Cluj Romania
8. Take a Day Trip from Cluj
From rowboating at the bottom of ancient salt mines to enjoying lunch in a traditional Hungarian village with breathtaking views, there are plenty of day trips to take while you are visiting Cluj.
Make sure to check out this full guide to Day Trips from Cluj-Napoca, Romania and don’t miss these unique experiences.
Papanași, a traditional Romanian doughnut
Chimney cake or kürtőskalács
9. Enjoy Local Cuisine
No visit to Cluj is complete without indulging in the booming culinary scene. The city has everything from cool, trendy gastropubs to phenomenal neighborhood cafes and bistros.
Try traditional Romanian dishes like sarmale (cabbage rolls), mici (grilled minced meat rolls), and papanași (traditional Romanian fried doughnut served with cream and jam).
Check out this post with the best places to eat in Cluj here.
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