Cluj-Napoca travel guide

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Introduction to Cluj-Napoca

Welcome to Cluj-Napoca! This city and seat of Cluj County in northwestern Romania is a bucket list destination, home to many famous attractions, including Central Park Simion Bărnuțiu, Alexandru Borza Botanical Garden, and Cetățuia Park.

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

Easily accessible from Cluj International, Cluj-Napoca is the perfect base for a memorable and unique vacation in Romania any time of the year. Before booking a flight to Cluj-Napoca, it's helpful to know that the city observes the UTC+02:00 time zone.

Discover the day-to-day life of the over 286.6 thousand people who call Cluj-Napoca home and explore the city’s fascinating history, rich culture, and distinct architecture. Dive deeper into the heart of the city's heritage, traditions, and community events by exploring the official website of Cluj-Napoca.

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

On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Cluj-Napoca, Romania. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Cluj-Napoca, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place.

Discover the cheapest and most popular flights offered by a variety of airlines that fly to Romania. Check out the best things to do in Cluj-Napoca by browsing over 62 top-rated tours available to you in the city. Compare the rates and services of the 7 types of places to stay and 12 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage. We make it easy for you to find and book every detail of your trip to Cluj-Napoca with this travel guide.

Experience the best of Cluj-Napoca with an expertly curated and fully customizable itinerary. Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Cluj-Napoca from our free 24/7 customer support.

Continue reading this Cluj-Napoca travel guide 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

With destinations such as Cluj-Napoca, a trip to Romania needs no further explanation. Spanning over 238,397 square kilometers, Romania is an expansive playground of discovery, offering a wealth of diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and captivating experiences awaiting exploration. From bustling metropolises to historic towns and modern urban hubs, Romania has something to enchant every traveler.

In Cluj-Napoca alone, travelers are spoiled for choice with an array of experiences and world-famous attractions such as Central Park Simion Bărnuțiu, Alexandru Borza Botanical Garden, and Cetățuia Park. Thus, a trip to Romania becomes essential. Whether you're drawn to historical sites, natural wonders, or vibrant cultural experiences, Romania offers an abundance of treasures waiting to be discovered. There's so much to explore and uncover in Romania.

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

What to see in Cluj-Napoca

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

Expect an exhilarating journey through Cluj-Napoca, a haven brimming with attractions to suit every traveler’s taste. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, and delectable cuisine, Cluj-Napoca offers an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dive into this ultimate Cluj-Napoca travel guide to uncover must-visit spots and get the scoop on what makes the city so special.

Top attractions in Cluj-Napoca

With its blend of traditional and modern culture, Cluj-Napoca is more than just a wonderful city in Romania. It's a hub for diverse experiences, boasting top attractions that range from historical landmarks to modern marvels, offering a glimpse into Romania's rich heritage and innovative spirit.

One popular place to visit 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.

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

Map of attractions

Take a closer look at the city map below for the exact locations of all the top attractions in Cluj-Napoca.

Things to do in Cluj-Napoca

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

You've explored Cluj-Napoca's top attractions and marked them on your map. So now, it's time to delve deeper and discover the top things to do in Cluj-Napoca. These activities not only offer excitement and adventure but also provide unique insights into the city's culture and heritage. Take your experience to the next level by checking out the best sights with a knowledgeable guide, embarking on fun adventures unique to Cluj-Napoca, or learning more about the city's rich history and traditions.

Discover the most popular tours and experiences in the city below.

Most popular experiences in Cluj-Napoca

A visit to Cluj-Napoca gets more exciting with memorable experiences. And the city is just perfect for that, with plenty of fun activities. Bus Tours, Historical Tours, Full-day Tours, and more are just some of the options you could explore to fully immerse yourself and make the most of your time.

In this travel guide, we've included some of the best things to do in Cluj-Napoca, adding a special touch to your journey in this vibrant city. Explore bustling markets, embark on scenic hikes, sample local delicacies, or immerse yourself in the rich history and heritage of Cluj-Napoca. Browse this diverse array of unforgettable experiences Cluj-Napoca offers and let your adventures begin!

Top tours & tickets starting in Cluj-Napoca

In Cluj-Napoca, travelers are spoiled for choice with a dazzling array of 16 categories of top-rated tours and tickets. But among this sea of options, one category reigns supreme: Trips & Excursions.

Trips & Excursions offer an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the heart and soul of Cluj-Napoca. For example, the fantastic Turda Salt Mine, Corvin Castle and Alba Fortress from Cluj.

Cluj-Napoca also offers plenty of budget-friendly tours and activities that promise travelers a unique experience. This experience costs around 3 EUR.

Elevate your upcoming Cluj-Napoca adventure with unforgettable experiences by booking top-rated tours in the city. Uncover the finest tours, activities, and tickets awaiting you in Cluj-Napoca right below.

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Discover the best things to do in Cluj-Napoca. Choose from 62 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 and discover a variety of exciting things to do in Cluj-Napoca.

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.

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, accommodation, 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 everything you need to travel comfortably, travel packages to Cluj-Napoca also offer full customization. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

Continue to the next section of this complete Cluj-Napoca travel guide to explore further details about the vacation options available for your trip to the city.

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 on holiday 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.

Explore the popular types of travel packages to Cluj-Napoca below. Click on any to delve into the details and effortlessly plan your dream getaway.

Top vacation packages in Cluj-Napoca

Top-rated travel packages to Rome allow you to experience a memorable journey. These packages offer customizable features, ensuring you're guaranteed to have an immersive exploration through the heart of Rome and beyond. Browse a couple of options to uncover the finest ways to explore the city of Rome with ease and excitement.

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

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Find vacation packages in Cluj-Napoca

Explore and compare vacation packages, each offering unforgettable journeys to the wonderful city of Cluj-Napoca. Be sure to act swiftly, as the best flights, hotels, and activities in Cluj-Napoca tend to fill up quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best travel deals in Romania. Your customized holiday package to Cluj-Napoca is only a few clicks away!

How to get to Cluj-Napoca

International travelers can fly to Cluj-Napoca by booking flights with Wizz Air Malta, Tarom, Ryanair, HiSky Europe, and SKY express, offering flights to Cluj International. From the arrival airport, travelers can choose from various public and private transfer options to Cluj-Napoca.

For those seeking the best flight ticket deals to Cluj-Napoca, knowing the cheapest travel times and which airlines offer the most affordable flights is helpful. Luckily, we provide this information to help you discover the cheapest and most popular flights to Cluj-Napoca. Go to this page to compare all flights to Cluj-Napoca.

Find cheap flights to Cluj-Napoca

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

Booking budget-friendly flights to Cluj-Napoca is a crucial part of planning your trip to the city. This section will guide you through the process, helping you find the best deals for your journey.

Booking in advance is a smart move when traveling to Cluj-Napoca. Airlines release their best deals months ahead of departure, so early birds catch the lower fares. Consider flexible travel dates while planning your visit to the city. Mid-week and off-peak seasons often offer more wallet-friendly options.

To help you find cheap flights to Cluj-Napoca, you can use the powerful booking widget below. Enter your departure city, choose between round trip or one-way, pick your fare class, select travel dates, and specify the number of travelers. Click "Search, " and the widget will do the rest. You'll see a list of flights matching your criteria, making your trip to Cluj-Napoca even more convenient.

Fine-tune your search with filters to sort by price, airline, layovers, and more. Once you've found your ideal flight, click "Book, " and you'll be redirected to the booking page to complete your reservation. Enter your payment details and receive a confirmation – it's that simple!

Remember to book ahead, stay flexible, and utilize the widget's features to make your journey to Cluj-Napoca both affordable and unforgettable.

Popular flights to Cluj-Napoca

Travelers visiting Cluj-Napoca can easily access the city via Cluj International, offering direct connection to 1249 destinations worldwide. To streamline your travel planning process, explore the most popular flights to Cluj-Napoca below. Discover direct routes from major international hubs and convenient connections tailored to suit your travel preferences. Click to delve into the diverse array of flights available to Cluj-Napoca and embark on an unforgettable journey.

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 accommodations in central Cluj-Napoca offers a ton of benefits.

Staying in 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.

In Cluj-Napoca, you'll find 7 different types of places to stay, catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. 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 and budget-friendly hotels 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 following sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Cluj-Napoca

A trip to Cluj-Napoca means opportunities to relax at any of the 7 different types of places to stay in the city. 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.

Among all the choices available in the city, Campeador Inn is one of the top picks of travelers in Cluj-Napoca. Campeador Inn is a 4-star stay with an average rating of 3563 stars out of 5 from 4 guests. The hotel is located at Dambovitei 77, Cluj-Napoca, Romania and boasts many great utilities, including 24-hour front desk, restaurant, and free wi-fi.

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.

In Cluj-Napoca, travelers looking for an economical yet top-rated place to stay usually choose Pensiunea Vila Dana. For approximately 44 EUR, guests can book a comfortable Single Room at this popular guesthouse, which also offers bar, free wi-fi, and more.

Below is a list of all 7 different types of places to stay in Cluj-Napoca. 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.

Radisson Blu Hotel, Cluj offers the most luxurious rooms and is perfect for travelers looking for the ultimate 5-star hotel experience in Cluj-Napoca. If comfort, convenience, and affordability are your non-negotiables, check out Campeador Inn, the top 4-star hotel in the city. When all you need is a pleasant place to rest and sleep in between your activities in Cluj-Napoca, the highest-rated 3-star hotel, Belvedere, is for you.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in 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 in Cluj-Napoca by clicking the cards.

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Search for accommodation in Cluj-Napoca

Finding the perfect stay for your visit to Cluj-Napoca is made easy with our search tool. With just a few clicks, explore a range of available hotels and accommodations, complete with prices and amenities for easy comparison. Simply input your check-in and check-out dates, along with the number of guests and rooms needed. Start planning your trip to Cluj-Napoca effortlessly now!

Car rentals in Cluj-Napoca

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

To navigate Cluj-Napoca effortlessly, renting a car is an excellent choice. With your own wheels, you can explore every nook and cranny of the destination without relying on public transportation and even venture off the beaten path. On our website, you'll discover a selection of over 12 car rental companies in Cluj-Napoca, ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Cluj-Napoca start at 2 EUR per day or 14 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Ford Focus, Skoda Rapid, Dacia Logan Automatic. If you prefer driving a manual car, you'll find multiple options for rent in Cluj-Napoca, starting at 1 EUR per day or 5 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 rentals 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.

Each destination in Romania offers something unique to experience! 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 about 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.

Experience the authentic charm of Romania by expanding your travels beyond the boundaries of Cluj-Napoca. Explore other destinations around Romania with a domestic flight. A domestic flight is typically a short-haul flight, with the longest duration not exceeding two hours. To find the best flights from Cluj-Napoca to other amazing locations in Romania, add the required details below and select 'Search' to view the best domestic flights in Romania for your chosen dates. You can also jump to the last section of this travel guide to find the most popular domestic flights from Cluj-Napoca.

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 7 airlines, including Wizz Air Malta, Tarom, Ryanair, Air Connect, and Wizz Air. There are around 17 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 Wizz Air Malta, Tarom, 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.

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