Bacău travel guide

Photo of Bacau Cathedral in Bacau in Romania by Enturaju Daniel
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Introduction to Bacău

Bacău, Romania - When thinking about this county in Romania, images of the spectacular Parcul Municipal Onești, Magura Ocnei Monastery, and Victor Anestin Astronomical Observatory instantly come to mind. As you explore beyond these attractions and read through this Bacău travel guide, you'll find that this region in Romania is more than what we see in books and social media. Bacău, and its community of more than 616.2 thousand people, is a culturally-rich and diverse travel destination offering plenty of unforgettable experiences.

Easily accessible from George Enescu International airport, Bacău is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Romania any time of the year.

You'll learn more fascinating facts about Bacău as you explore this spectacular region.

Traveling to Bacău is especially rewarding for anyone eager to connect with locals and learn more about their unique culture and traditions.

Get ready to explore and learn more about the region of Bacău below!

History of Bacău

Nestled in the Eastern part of Romania, Bacău is a city steeped in history and rich in cultural heritage. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area has been inhabited since the Paleolithic era, with the first documented mention of Bacău dating back to 1408.

In the Middle Ages, the city evolved as an important trade center, thanks to its strategic location at the crossroads of commercial routes. Bacău's development was significantly influenced by Stephen the Great, a prominent Moldavian leader who constructed a royal court here in the 15th century.

During the 19th century, Bacău experienced a period of modernization. The city was connected to the national railway network, which facilitated commerce and boosted its economic growth.

Bacău's rich history is reflected in its architectural landmarks, including the Precista Church, a remarkable example of Moldavian medieval architecture, and the Iulian Antonescu Museum Complex, which houses exhibits showcasing the region's history and culture.

Local culture and customs in Bacău

Bacău, a city in Eastern Romania, is rich in cultural traditions and customs that reflect its historical ties to the Moldavian region. Like many Romanian cities, Bacău is a place where old meets new. Residents maintain a deep respect for their history, with folklore and traditional music playing a significant role in local events and festivals.

The city's cultural life is vibrant, with many theaters, concerts, and art exhibitions held throughout the year. These events often showcase traditional Romanian music and dance, offering tourists an opportunity to experience the authenticity of Bacău's culture. The locals are friendly and welcoming, often willing to share their customs and traditions with visitors.

In Bacău, it's customary to greet each other with a handshake and to say 'Bună ziua' (Good day) during the day, and 'Bună seara' (Good evening) in the evening. It's also considered polite to let locals make the first move when it comes to initiating conversation. Understanding these social norms can help visitors navigate their interactions with residents, ensuring a respectful and enjoyable travel experience.

Currency information for travelers in Bacău

Romania's official currency is the Romanian Leu (RON), which is used in Bacău as well. Banknotes come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, 200 and 500 lei, and coins are in denominations of 1, 5, 10 and 50 bani. Credit cards are widely accepted, especially in hotels and restaurants. The use of contactless payment methods, like mobile wallets, is increasingly becoming common.

ATMs are readily available throughout Bacău, and they offer the most competitive exchange rates. However, it’s advisable to inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any potential card blockages. Establish a daily budget for expenses such as food, transportation, and sightseeing, bearing in mind that Bacău is generally more affordable when compared to other European cities.

Language tips for travelers in Bacău

While visiting Bacău, it's helpful to know that the official language is Romanian, which is a Romance language similar to Italian, Spanish, French, and Portuguese. English is not widely spoken, especially by the older population. Therefore, learning a few key Romanian phrases can greatly enhance your travel experience.

Try starting with basic phrases like 'Bună ziua' (Good day), 'Mulțumesc' (Thank you), and 'Unde este...?' (Where is...?). Also, remember that Romanians appreciate politeness, so don't forget to say 'Vă rog' (Please) and 'Scuze' (Excuse me).

For better communication, consider downloading a language translation app or carrying a small Romanian phrasebook. This can help you navigate menus, signs, and conversations with locals. Remember, a little effort goes a long way in bridging language barriers.

Best time to visit Bacău

The best time to explore Bacău, a charming city in Eastern Romania, is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) months. During these periods, the weather is typically pleasant and mild, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Springtime in Bacău is particularly appealing with the blooming of flowers, creating a vibrant and picturesque setting. Autumn is equally captivating with the city's foliage showcasing a vibrant mix of red, orange, and yellow hues. Furthermore, these seasons allow for a more tranquil travel experience as they tend to be less crowded compared to the high tourist season in summer. However, if you're a fan of cultural events, consider visiting in July when the city hosts the 'Bacău Fest,' a popular local festival featuring music, dance, and culinary delights. Regardless of the season, it's advisable to check the weather forecast and plan your itinerary accordingly to make the most of your visit.

Weather in Bacău

Bacău, Romania experiences a temperate-continental climate. This means the city sees four distinct seasons, each carrying its own unique weather patterns. In the summer, from June to August, temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), with July typically being the hottest month. While the heat can be intense, summer in Bacău is generally dry and sunny, making it a popular time for visitors.

Autumn, from September to November, sees a gradual cooling of temperatures and increased rainfall, with October being the wettest month. Winter, from December to February, can be quite cold with temperatures often dipping below freezing and heavy snowfall common. Spring, from March to May, is a transitional period with temperatures gradually warming and a mix of rain and sunny spells.

Weather conditions can sometimes be extreme, such as intense summer heatwaves and heavy snowfall in winter. Therefore, it is advisable to check the weather forecast before traveling and pack accordingly. Despite the occasional extreme conditions, Bacău's climate generally offers a mix of weather suitable for various activities across the seasons.

Local tip for visiting Bacău

When visiting Bacău, one insider tip is to explore the city's vibrant market scene, which truly comes to life in the early morning hours. While many tourists enjoy a relaxed start to their day, Bacău's locals know that the best time to visit the markets is right as they open. You'll find the freshest produce, the most tantalizing street food, and unique local crafts, all before the crowds descend. Not only will you have the chance to interact with local vendors and immerse yourself in Romanian culture, but you'll also beat the afternoon heat. So, set your alarm early, grab a strong coffee, and delve into the bustling morning markets to experience Bacău like a true local.

Top services in Bacău

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Bacău, Romania. Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by 330 airlines that fly to Romania. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Bacău.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Bacău, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place. Book with Guide to Europe to get an expertly-curated and fully-customizable itinerary and experience the best of Bacău on your vacation in Romania.

Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Bacău from our free 24/7 customer support. Continue reading to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the region of Bacău!

Learn more about Romania

There are many reasons to visit the region of Bacău, but a trip to Romania needs no explanation.

Exploring Romania, which spans 238,397 square kilometers, is an adventure of a lifetime. Romania offers an abundance of truly magical places to discover, including cultural, historic, and scenic sites of significant value to both locals and travelers.

As the home country of many world-famous attractions like the spectacular Parcul Municipal Onești, Magura Ocnei Monastery, and the Victor Anestin Astronomical Observatory, you’re all set for a unique and memorable travel experience in Romania.

Click or tap the link below to discover more about Romania.

What to see in Bacău

Bacău has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the region.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the region of Bacău.

Top attractions in Bacău

Home to plenty of top attractions, Bacău is more than just a wonderful region in Romania. Bacău is a travel hotspot and a great place to experience a mix of the traditional and modern culture of Romania.

One fascinating sight in Bacău is the unforgettable Parcul Municipal Onești. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the region, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Bacău.

Parcul Municipal Onești is open for visitors at any time of the day and is located at Onești, Romania.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Romania, check out our list of top attractions in Bacău below. Discover the best places to visit in Bacău, including the fascinating Parcul Municipal Onești, Magura Ocnei Monastery, Victor Anestin Astronomical Observatory, Pârtia de Schi Nemira, and Tisa Silvestri Monastery.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Bacău.

Things to do in Bacău

Enrich your travel experience in Bacău by joining tours and activities. Bacău offers an exciting selection of top-rated tours and it's easy for every traveler to find something to their liking. Take the opportunity to catch the top attractions on a tour, stay active with an adventurous excursion, or learn something new about the local history or culture of the region.

Discover the most popular experiences in Bacău below.

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Discover the best things to do in Bacău.

Select your dates and number of travelers in the search bar below to receive the best recommendations for your vacation in Bacău. Click the green button to view your options.

What to eat in Bacău

Bacău, located in the historical region of Moldova, offers an authentic Romanian culinary experience. One of the best places to eat in Bacău is the city centre, where you'll find a variety of restaurants serving traditional dishes. Try 'sarmale', a hearty dish of cabbage or grape leaves stuffed with pork, rice, and spices, or 'mămăligă', a cornmeal porridge often served with cheese, sour cream, or meat. For lighter fare, head to the bustling street food markets. Here, you can sample 'covrigi', a local pretzel-like snack, or 'plăcintă', a sweet or savoury pastry. Venturing towards Bacău's outskirts, you'll find high-end restaurants like La Fontana, renowned for its fusion of Moldavian and international cuisines. Don't miss the opportunity to pair your meal with locally produced wines, particularly the famous 'Busuioacă de Moldova'. For the best dining experience, try visiting during the 'Gustar' festival in August, when Bacău's culinary scene truly comes alive with food stalls, cooking demonstrations, and traditional music.

Best shopping in Bacău

Shopping in Bacău offers an eclectic mix of modern retail therapy and traditional Romanian craftsmanship. Arena Mall is the best place to go shopping in Bacău, boasting a wealth of international and local brands. This modern shopping hub offers a mix of fashion, homewares, electronics, and more. For an authentic Romanian shopping experience, head to the local markets such as Piata Centrală. Here, you'll find a variety of local products, from fresh produce to hand-crafted items, perfect for souvenirs.

Bacău is also known for its distinct fashion scene. Local boutiques such as Fabou and Da Vinci feature Romanian designers who blend traditional styles with modern trends. Don't leave Bacău without buying a traditional Romanian blouse, or 'ie', a beautifully embroidered garment that's a symbol of Romanian culture.

Shopping hours typically run from 10 AM to 9 PM, with some stores and markets opening earlier. Major credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller shops and markets. English is commonly spoken in larger stores and malls, but learning a few basic Romanian phrases can enhance your shopping experience.

Best free things to do in Bacău

Embarking on a budget-friendly journey? Discover the best free things to do in Bacău, Romania, a city teeming with historical treasures and picturesque landscapes. Start at the Cancicov Park, an urban oasis perfect for leisurely strolls, picnics, or simply soaking up the sun. The park's stunning floral displays and tranquil lake make it a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. Next, visit the Precista Church, a remarkable testament to Bacău's religious heritage. With its beautifully preserved frescoes and intricate architecture, a visit to this Orthodox Church is a must for history and art enthusiasts. For a glimpse into the city's rich cultural tapestry, head to the Public Garden, home to several statues and monuments honoring local and national heroes, including the famous poet George Bacovia. Finally, immerse yourself in the local lifestyle by exploring Bacău's vibrant markets. Here, you can engage with friendly vendors, admire the colorful produce and handicrafts, and learn about Romanian cuisine and traditions. With these free activities, you're guaranteed a memorable and cost-effective journey in Bacău.

Vacation packages in Bacău

The best and easiest way to visit Bacău is by booking a vacation package. A vacation package includes everything you need for a worry-free and perfectly planned holiday in Romania.

Booking a vacation package to Bacău means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accomodation, and a rental car, to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Bacău to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing you with everything you need to travel comfortably, your vacation package to Bacău is also fully customizable. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience, to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

On our website, you will find unique vacation packages to Bacău, including flight tickets, hotel reservations, and recommendations for the best sightseeing spots, restaurants, bars, and activities.

Continue to the next section to learn more about what types of vacations you can book in the region of Bacău.

Find vacation packages in Bacău

Discover and compare vacation packages that take you to the wonderful region of Bacău.

The best flights, hotels, and activities in Bacău get fully booked quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best vacation packages in Romania. Your customized holiday package to Bacău is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Bacău

To get to the region of Bacău the fastest way possible, travelers from outside Romania can travel by plane. International travelers can fly to Bacău by booking flights with any of the 5 airlines that offer direct flights to George Enescu International airport. Some airlines that operate flights to George Enescu International airport are United Airlines, Ryanair, Delta Air Lines, Azul, and Turkish Airlines. Go to this page to compare all flights to Bacău.

To reach the region of Bacău, travelers can choose from various airport transfer options available at George Enescu International airport.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Bacău, knowing the cheapest travel time and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we have this information for you. Discover more about the cheapest and most popular flights to George Enescu International airport and Bacău below.

Find cheap flights to Bacău

Over the years, more airlines have started offering flexible and direct flights to Bacău, making it one of the most accessible travel destinations in Romania. However, it is usually cheaper to fly to Bacău, Romania, in October.

The cheapest one-way flight to Bacău costs around 20 EUR and is offered by the airline Wizz Air. The flight leaves on January 29 at 2 and departs from Bologna Guglielmo Marconi airport in Bologna, Italy.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Bacău cost approximately 311 EUR in total. The departure flight leaves on November 21 and the return flight is scheduled on November 24. The flight time is around 26 hours per way.

The return flight is operated by Henri Coandă International.

Use the search tool below to find the cheapest flights to Romania and the region of Bacău from your city of departure.

Popular flights to Bacău

Travelers visiting Bacău in Romania can fly to George Enescu International airport directly from 1627 destinations worldwide.

The three most popular routes to George Enescu International airport and the region of Bacău in Romania depart from George Enescu International airport in Bacău, Romania, Norman Manley International airport in Kingston, Jamaica, and Cochin International airport in Kochi, India.

Travelers can fly to Romania by choosing from from 1 weekly flight(s) from Bacău; from 1 weekly flight(s) from Kingston; and from 1 weekly flight(s) from Kochi.

The airline that operates most flights to Romania is Cambodia Airways. Cambodia Airways offers 1 scheduled flight routes to Romania.

Discover the most popular flights to Bacău below. Click to view flights to Bacău, Romania from destinations all across the globe.

Where to stay in Bacău

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a region as fantastic as Bacău is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience.

The best place to stay in Bacău usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodation in downtown Bacău offers a ton of benefits.

Staying at the heart of the region allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Bacău and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Bacău planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Romania can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the 5-star or 4-star hotels in Bacău. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations in the region, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Bacău.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Bacău in the next sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Bacău

While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Bacău provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Bacău. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

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Search for accommodation in Bacău

Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the region of Bacău on specific dates. This handy feature also allows you to compare prices and amenities.

Enter the preferred check-in and check-out dates. Then, select the number of guests and rooms. Click the Search button to find all the available hotels and places to stay in the region of Bacău that match the information provided.

Transportation in Bacău

Transportation in Bacău, Romania is efficient and diverse, offering a variety of options for both locals and tourists. The city's public transportation system includes buses and minibuses, operated by Transurb Bacău. These services connect various parts of the city, ensuring convenient travel.

For a more personalized travel experience, taxis are readily available throughout the city. Reliable taxi companies include Taxi 1, Taxi 2, and Taxi 3. For those preferring to drive, car rental services are provided by international companies such as Europcar and Hertz, as well as local providers.

A unique local transportation experience is offered by the Bacău railway station. It is one of the main railway hubs in the region, providing direct connections to other major Romanian cities. Visitors can enjoy the scenic train journeys, which make for a memorable travel experience. For intercity travel, consider the coach services provided by Fany or Duda Trans.

Car rental in Bacău

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Bacău. Bacău has 4 car rental companies ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Bacău start from 34.04 EUR per day or 238.28 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is an Opel Astra 5 Doors Automatic.

If you prefer driving a manual car, you’ll find multiple options for rent in Bacău, starting from 22.3 EUR per day or 156.09 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Toyota Aygo 5 Doors.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Bacău, Romania, below.

Popular types of car rental in Bacău

Discover and choose from our broad range of popular car rental options in the region of Bacău to find the best car for your travel plans. Travelers in Bacău can choose from small cars, medium cars, large cars, estate cars, mini vans, SUVs, convertibles, premium cars, camper vans, mini campers, vans, cars. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Renting a car is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore Romania at their own pace. The most popular type of car rental among small groups of travelers in Bacău is a TopLevel.

Another very popular type of car to rent in Bacău is a TopLevel. This car is particularly popular among couples and solo travelers touring the region of Bacău.

Check out all options available in Bacău and book the car rental for your upcoming adventures in Romania below.

Search for car rental in Bacău

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful region of Bacău. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Bacău, Romania, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Popular destinations to visit after Bacău

The region of Bacău is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Romania. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Romania has it all.

Romania is calling, and the country is asking you to experience its culture and diversity to the fullest! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Romania that are as magical as the region of Bacău. The most popular travel destinations in Romania are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Romania

When unsure of where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Romania. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Domestic flights from Bacău

A taste of Romania through a visit to Bacău can often reignite a traveler's passion for adventure. When this happens, the best way to satisfy this wanderlust is to book a domestic flight from Bacău to another remarkable destination in Romania.

To begin your search for the best or cheapest flights from the region of Bacău to other spectacular locations in Romania, jump to the last section of this travel guide.

Popular domestic flights from Bacău

Travelers in Romania can catch flights to domestic airports in Suceava, Craiova, Cluj-Napoca, and Bucharest. Domestic flights in Romania are operated by 2 airlines: Wizz Air, and Wizz Air Malta. There are around 4 scheduled flight routes operating to Bacău on a weekly basis.

From Bacău, travelers can book scheduled flights to 4 domestic destinations.

Search domestic flights from Bacău

Traveling to another city or region in Romania? Use the flight search tool below to quickly find the cheapest one-way or round-trip flights from Bacău to different local destinations.

Enter all the necessary information and click or tap on the Search button to see a list of the available domestic flights in Romania on the selected dates.

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