Cluj-Napoca travel guide

Medieval St. Michael's Church and Union Square in Cluj-Napoca, Transylvania.
Experts in travel to Europe
We have years of experience and local knowledge
24/7 customer support
Reach us any time of the day in just a few seconds

Introduction to Cluj-Napoca

Cluj-Napoca is a destination known for attractions like Central Park Simion Bărnuțiu, Alexandru Borza Botanical Garden, and Cetățuia Park. Travelers who visit this city and seat of Cluj County in northwestern Romania are often fascinated by the rich history and interesting culture it offers. We recommend taking the time to explore this city in Romania on foot and walk alongside the over 286.6 thousand locals who live in Cluj-Napoca. You’ll quickly discover you’re surrounded by endless numbers of things to see and do.

Easily accessible from Cluj International airport, Cluj-Napoca is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Romania any time of the year.

You'll learn more fascinating facts about Cluj-Napoca as you explore this spectacular city.

Traveling to Cluj-Napoca 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 city of Cluj-Napoca below!

History of Cluj-Napoca

Cluj-Napoca, often referred to as the 'Treasure City' of Transylvania, has a history that stretches back to the 2nd century AD, when it was known as Napoca and established by the Romans.

Over the centuries, this historic city has been under the control of various empires and kingdoms, including the Habsburg Monarchy, the Ottoman Empire, and the Kingdom of Hungary.

In the Middle Ages, Cluj-Napoca was an important trade center, and in the 19th century, it became a hub for the national Romanian awakening. During the Second World War, the city suffered under the dictatorship, but it rebounded in the post-war period to become a major cultural, educational, and economic center in Romania.

Today, Cluj-Napoca is a vibrant city known for its diverse cultural scene, historic landmarks, and exciting festivals. It is also home to the country's second-largest university, Babes-Bolyai University, contributing to its reputation as a bustling student city.

Top services in Cluj-Napoca

Here on this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Cluj-Napoca, Romania. Check out the cheapest and most popular flights offered by 370 airlines that fly to Romania. Browse the 35 top-rated tours available to you in Cluj-Napoca. We make it easy for you to find and book the top services in Cluj-Napoca.

Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Cluj-Napoca, 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 Cluj-Napoca on your vacation in Romania.

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

Best time to visit Cluj-Napoca

The best time to explore Cluj-Napoca, Romania is between late spring and early autumn, particularly from May to September. During this period, the city experiences pleasantly warm temperatures and less rainfall, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The summer months are particularly lively, with a host of cultural events such as the Transylvania International Film Festival in May and the Electric Castle music festival in July. However, these events also attract large crowds, so book accommodations in advance. For a quieter and less crowded vacation, consider visiting in late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September). These periods still offer good weather and the opportunity to enjoy the city's charm without the hustle and bustle. For winter lovers, December brings a magical atmosphere with Christmas markets and snow-capped surroundings, but be prepared for cold temperatures.

Weather in Cluj-Napoca

Cluj-Napoca, Romania, experiences a temperate-continental climate, marked by warm summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F), with July being the hottest month. Winters can be quite chilly, with temperatures falling as low as -10°C (14°F), especially in January. Spring and autumn are moderate and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year, with an annual average of 600-650 mm. However, May and June usually record the highest rainfall. Snowfall is common in winter, which can lead to icy conditions and potentially disrupt travel. Therefore, if you're planning to visit during this season, it's advisable to watch the weather forecasts closely and pack appropriately. The city also experiences occasional foggy conditions, especially in the mornings of spring and autumn.

Local tip for visiting Cluj-Napoca

When visiting Cluj-Napoca, a hidden gem that locals often indulge in is the 'La Cizmărie' café. Nestled away in the lesser-trafficked streets, it offers an authentic taste of the city’s vibrant café culture. As an insider tip, try their specialty, a 'Turkish delight latte', a unique fusion of traditional Romanian and Turkish flavors. This quaint café also doubles as a bookstore, offering a wide range of local literature, giving you a chance to immerse yourself in the city's literary scene. Furthermore, Cluj locals highly recommend visiting on a Sunday evening when the café hosts live jazz sessions. This special event, unknown to many tourists, offers a truly authentic and enjoyable Cluj-Napoca experience. Remember, the café is small, so getting there early is advisable to secure a good spot.

Learn more about Romania

There are many reasons to visit the city of Cluj-Napoca, 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 Central Park Simion Bărnuțiu, Alexandru Borza Botanical Garden, and the Cetățuia Park, 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 Cluj-Napoca

Aerial drone view of Saint Michael Church in Cluj, Romania.

Cluj-Napoca has something for everyone. Regardless of age and interest, travelers have the best time exploring every corner of the city.

Read on to discover the best places to visit and find out what to expect from the city of Cluj-Napoca.

Top attractions in Cluj-Napoca

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

One fascinating sight in Cluj-Napoca is the unforgettable Central Park Simion Bărnuțiu. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn’t miss on your trip to Cluj-Napoca.

Central Park Simion Bărnuțiu is open for visitors at any time of the day and is located at Parcul Central, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Romania, check out our list of top attractions in Cluj-Napoca below. Discover the best places to visit in Cluj-Napoca, including the fascinating Central Park Simion Bărnuțiu, Alexandru Borza Botanical Garden, Cetățuia Park, Unirii Square, and Iuliu Hațieganu Sports Park.

Map of attractions

Use this map to find the location of all top attractions in Cluj-Napoca.

Things to do in Cluj-Napoca

Panorama of Cluj Napoca with The Dormition of the Theotokos Cathedral, Transylvania, Romania.

Enrich your travel experience in Cluj-Napoca by joining tours and activities. Cluj-Napoca 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 city.

Discover the most popular experiences in Cluj-Napoca below.

Most popular experiences in Cluj-Napoca

Traveling is all about gaining new experiences. You can have that and more in the city of Cluj-Napoca.

Cluj-Napoca offers numerous tours and activities for travelers to choose from. Bus Tours, Historical Tours, and Full-day Tours are only a few of the many experiences you can book for your holiday in Romania.

Explore the most popular experiences you can join in Cluj-Napoca by clicking on one of the top-rated tour categories below.

Top tours & tickets starting in Cluj-Napoca

Travelers in Cluj-Napoca can choose from 14 categories of top-rated tours and tickets. If you're curious about what the most frequently recommended experiences in the city are, Trips & Excursions is the answer.

The most popular tour in Cluj-Napoca is the fantastic Curly Tour - Day trip from Cluj :). By joining this highly recommended tour, travelers get to learn more about what makes Cluj-Napoca one of the best travel destinations in Romania.

Cluj-Napoca also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience in the city. The affordable Cluj Outdoor Escape Game: The Secret Treasure of King Matia is the cheapest tour in the city, and is a popular Historical Tour. This experience costs around 6 EUR and allows travelers a great time in Cluj-Napoca. Around 22 travelers have given this activity an average rating of 5 stars out of 5.

Secure an unforgettable experience for your upcoming trip to Cluj-Napoca and book a top-rated tour in the city. Discover the best tours, activities, and tickets in Cluj-Napoca below.

Find

All Experiences in Cluj Napoca

See more

Search for things to do in Cluj-Napoca

Discover the best things to do in Cluj-Napoca. Choose from 35 fantastic tours and activities available in the city.

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

What to eat in Cluj-Napoca

Cluj-Napoca, the heart of Transylvania, presents a delightful culinary journey through its diverse and rich gastronomic culture. The city’s Old Town is one of the best places to eat in Cluj-Napoca, boasting a wide array of restaurants serving traditional Romanian dishes. Here, you can savor 'sarmale' (cabbage rolls), 'mici' (grilled minced meat rolls), and 'ciorba de burta' (beef tripe soup). For street food lovers, the area around the Central Park and Memorandumului Street is a hotspot, offering everything from Romanian 'covrigi' (pretzels) to hearty 'gulas' (Hungarian-inspired stew). For a more upscale dining experience, head to the Iulius Mall District, where you'll find high-end restaurants serving both local and international fare. Remember to pair your meals with 'tuica', a potent plum brandy, or 'vin fiert' (mulled wine) for a complete Romanian culinary experience. With its vibrant food scene and rich traditional cuisine, Cluj-Napoca is a gastronome's dream come true.

Best free things to do in Cluj-Napoca

Explore the best free things to do in Cluj-Napoca, the heart of Transylvania, without spending a dime. Start by visiting the Central Park, a tranquil green space where you can relax by the Casino building, an architectural jewel of the city. Next, take a stroll through the Cluj-Napoca Botanical Garden, a serene paradise that's home to over 10,000 plants. For history buffs, the 'Memorialul Victimelor Comunismului şi al Rezistenţei' is a must-visit. Though the museum has an entrance fee, the hauntingly beautiful exterior and the peace monument can be viewed for free. Don't miss out on the unique artistic experience at the Paintbrush Factory, a former paintbrush factory turned into a contemporary art hub. Lastly, hike up to the Cetatuia Park for a panoramic view of the city. This hilltop park offers a splendid vista of Cluj's gothic spires and baroque buildings, especially at sunset. These are just a handful of the best free things to do in Cluj-Napoca that offer a fulfilling and culturally rich travel experience.

Vacation packages in Cluj-Napoca

Opera House and National Theatre in Cluj-Napoca, Transylvania, Romania.

The best and easiest way to visit Cluj-Napoca 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 Cluj-Napoca 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 Cluj-Napoca 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 Cluj-Napoca 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 198 unique vacation packages to Cluj-Napoca, 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 city of Cluj-Napoca.

Popular types of vacations in Cluj-Napoca

The most popular way to experience Cluj-Napoca is by visiting the city as part of a road trip across multiple destinations in Romania. However, it is also common for travelers to go to Cluj-Napoca on both shorter and longer getaways, to get a break from everyday life, relax, and experience something new.

With Guide to Europe you can find road trips, city breaks, and weekend getaways in Romania, ranging from budget to luxury. Whether you’re planning a multi-day road trip across Romania, or you just want to enjoy a few days exploring Cluj-Napoca, there is a vacation package for you.

Discover the most popular vacation packages in Cluj-Napoca below.

Top vacation packages in Cluj-Napoca

Travelers have a great selection of vacation packages to choose from in Romania. In fact, you can choose from as many as 198 different top-rated vacation packages to take you to Cluj-Napoca, and even more if you expand your search to include a bigger area of Romania.

To help narrow your choices down, here are some of the best vacation packages for exploring the city of Cluj-Napoca.

For an epic vacation, discover Cluj-Napoca and other top destinations in Romania on a top-rated holiday like the Cheap 10-Day Romania Road Trip Vacation from Cluj-Napoca traveling east to Târgu Mureș, Sinaia, Sibiu, and Alba Iulia. This vacation package provides travelers with tons of opportunities to experience not only the most popular attractions in Cluj-Napoca, but also in other top places to visit in Romania. If Unirii Square, Cetățuia Park, Iuliu Hațieganu Sports Park, Alexandru Borza Botanical Garden, and The Art Museum are on your bucket list, this is the perfect vacation package for you.

If you would like to go on a budget vacation in Cluj-Napoca, book the popular Cheap 3-Day Romania City Break in Cluj-Napoca and spend as little as 148 EUR. This vacation will take you on a journey to experience some of the most incredible attractions and sights in Cluj-Napoca, including the fantastic Unirii Square, Cetățuia Park, "Dormition of the Mother of God" Metropolitan Cathedral, Iuliu Hațieganu Sports Park, and Alexandru Borza Botanical Garden.

Get more Cluj-Napoca vacation ideas on this site and discover the greatest selection of vacation packages in Europe. Scroll down to find the best vacation packages in Romania that match your needs and budget.

Find

All Vacations in Cluj Napoca

See more

Find vacation packages in Cluj-Napoca

Discover and compare 198 vacation packages that take you to the wonderful city of Cluj-Napoca.

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

How to get to Cluj-Napoca

To get to the city of Cluj-Napoca the fastest way possible, travelers from outside Romania can travel by plane. International travelers can fly to Cluj-Napoca by booking flights with any of the 42 airlines that offer direct flights to Cluj International airport. Some airlines that operate flights to Cluj International airport are Ryanair, United Airlines, Lufthansa, Delta Air Lines, and Turkish Airlines. Go to this page to compare all flights to Cluj-Napoca.

To reach the city of Cluj-Napoca, travelers can choose from various airport transfer options available at Cluj International airport.

If you're looking for the best flight ticket deals to Cluj-Napoca, 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 Cluj International airport and Cluj-Napoca below.

Find cheap flights to Cluj-Napoca

Banffy Castle is an architectural monument situated in Bontida, a village in the vicinity of Cluj-Napoca, Romania.

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

The cheapest one-way flight to Cluj-Napoca costs around 19 EUR and is offered by the airline Wizz Air Malta.

The cheapest round-trip flights to Cluj-Napoca cost approximately 43 EUR in total. The departure flight leaves on July 31 and the return flight is scheduled on July 7. The flight time is around 1 hour 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 city of Cluj-Napoca from your city of departure.

Popular flights to Cluj-Napoca

Travelers visiting Cluj-Napoca in Romania can fly to Cluj International airport directly from 1995 destinations worldwide.

The three most popular routes to Cluj International airport and the city of Cluj-Napoca in Romania depart from Cluj International airport in Cluj-Napoca, Romania, Jackson–Evers International airport in Jackson, the United States, and Norman Manley International airport in Kingston, Jamaica.

Travelers can fly to Romania by choosing from from 3 weekly flight(s) from Cluj-Napoca; from 1 weekly flight(s) from Jackson; and from 2 weekly flight(s) from Kingston.

The airline that operates most flights to Romania is Cambodia Angkor Air. Cambodia Angkor Air offers 7 scheduled flight routes to Romania.

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

Where to stay in Cluj-Napoca

People visit the Old Town in Cluj-Napoca.

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

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

Staying at the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Cluj-Napoca and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally-located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Cluj-Napoca 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 Cluj-Napoca. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range hotels to budget-friendly accommodations in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Cluj-Napoca.

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

Popular types of accommodation in Cluj-Napoca

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

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Cluj-Napoca. 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.

Top hotels in Cluj-Napoca

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Cluj-Napoca for the unique experience they provide.

Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Cluj-Napoca provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Cluj-Napoca are created equal, finding the best in the city often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Cluj-Napoca.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in the Cluj-Napoca. Travelers are encouraged to book early as these hotels quickly reach capacity.

Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel by clicking the cards.

Find

All Hotels in Cluj Napoca

See more

Search for accommodation in Cluj-Napoca

Use the Accommodation Search tool below to find available stays in the city of Cluj-Napoca 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 city of Cluj-Napoca that match the information provided.

Car rental in Cluj-Napoca

National Romanian Theater and Opera House in Cluj Napoca city in the Transylvania region of Romania.

Experience the freedom and convenience of a self-drive vacation by renting a car for your adventures in Cluj-Napoca. Cluj-Napoca has 11 car rental companies ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Cluj-Napoca start from 27.33 EUR per day or 191.34 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 Cluj-Napoca, starting from 10.98 EUR per day or 76.84 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Fiat 500.

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

Search for car rental in Cluj-Napoca

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Cluj-Napoca. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Cluj-Napoca, 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.

Transportation in Cluj-Napoca

Cluj-Napoca boasts a well-organized public transport system. You can get around the city via trams, trolleybuses, and buses operated by Compania de Transport Public Cluj-Napoca. They run from early in the morning till late at night, covering all key areas of the city.

For more convenience, taxis are readily available and can be flagged down on the street or ordered through various apps like Clever Taxi. They are metered and relatively affordable compared to many other European cities.

Car rental services are another option. International companies like Avis, Europcar, and Sixt have outlets in Cluj-Napoca, allowing you to explore the city at your own pace. Don't forget to check the local driving regulations before hitting the road.

For a unique local experience, consider renting a bicycle from the many bike-sharing stations located throughout the city. Cluj-Napoca is becoming increasingly bike-friendly, with dedicated cycling paths in many areas.

Popular destinations to visit after Cluj-Napoca

Doves flying over the statue of mathias rex in unirii square, cluj-napoca.

The city of Cluj-Napoca 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 city of Cluj-Napoca. 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 Cluj-Napoca

Tailors bastion from Cluj Napoca, Transylvania.

A taste of Romania through a visit to Cluj-Napoca 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 Cluj-Napoca to another remarkable destination in Romania.

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

Popular domestic flights from Cluj-Napoca

Travelers in Romania can catch flights to domestic airports in Suceava, Sibiu, Satu Mare, Oradea, and Constanța. Domestic flights in Romania are operated by 8 airlines: Tarom, Wizz Air Malta, Ryanair, A. P. G. Distribution System, and Air Connect. There are around 21 scheduled flight routes operating to Cluj-Napoca on a weekly basis.

From Cluj-Napoca, travelers can book scheduled flights to 11 domestic destinations. The most popular flights from Cluj-Napoca depart to many top-rated destinations in Romania and are offered by Tarom, Wizz Air Malta, and Ryanair.

Search domestic flights from Cluj-Napoca

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 Cluj-Napoca 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.

Most popular countries in Europe

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place

Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.