Craiova travel guide

Craiova, situated in the heart of Wallachia region, is one of Romania's oldest settlements with evidence of habitation dating back to the Paleolithic era.

During the Roman era, a Dacian fort existed in the area which was later occupied by the Romans. The city's first documented mention came in 1475, under the name of 'The Royal City of Craiova'.

Craiova's development flourished in the 19th century when it became an important economic and cultural hub. The city was home to the Wallachian Parliament and it played a significant role in the 1848 Wallachian Revolution.

Today, Craiova is renowned for its architectural beauty, with many historical landmarks such as the Craiova Art Museum, the 'Marin Sorescu' National Theatre, and the Statue of Mihai Viteazul – a symbol of Romanian unity and independence.

Craiova, Romania is known for its warm and welcoming culture deeply rooted in history and tradition. The locals, known as 'Craioveni', are very friendly and hospitable, often inviting visitors into their homes for a meal. Romanian is the main language spoken, but English is commonly understood by younger generations. Traditional Romanian cuisine is a big part of Craiova's culture, with local dishes like 'sarmale' and 'mamaliga' being staples.

Folklore is very significant in Craiova, with many local customs and traditions still being practiced today. The city is home to The National Theatre, Opera and Ballet, hosting numerous cultural events and festivals throughout the year. Attending these events can provide a unique insight into the local arts scene. It's also customary for locals to dress in traditional Romanian clothing for special occasions, such as weddings or festivals. Respect for elders and public decency is highly valued, so dressing modestly during your visit is recommended. Finally, tipping is customary in restaurants and bars, typically around 10% of the bill.

The best time to explore Craiova, Romania is late spring (May to June) or early autumn (September to October). During these periods, the weather is usually mild and pleasant, offering ideal conditions for sightseeing. Spring is especially attractive for the city's blooming cherry and magnolia trees, while the kaleidoscope of colors in autumn provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities. Avoid the peak summer months of July and August, as temperatures can rise significantly and the city can become crowded with tourists. Additionally, Craiova hosts various cultural events throughout the year, such as the Craiova Music and Film Festival in September and the International Shakespeare Festival in April, which can enhance your travel experience. However, these events also attract large crowds, so plan your visit accordingly. If you prefer a quieter, less crowded time, late autumn or early spring may be your best bet. Remember to pack suitable clothing according to the season, and enjoy the charm and beauty of Craiova at your own pace.

When visiting Craiova, a little-known insider tip is to plan your visit around the 'Craiova Music and Film Festival'. Unlike the more popularly known festivals in Romania, this local event offers a unique blend of music, film, and cultural showcases, drawing crowds from diverse backgrounds. The festival typically takes place in September, transforming the city into a vibrant hub of artistic expression. With a mix of international and local artists, it's a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the dynamic cultural scene of Craiova. You’ll get a chance to interact with the locals more intimately and learn about their traditions, music, and films. Besides, the festival often includes workshops and discussions that provide a deeper understanding of the local culture. Don't miss the chance to experience Craiova from this lesser-known perspective!

On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Craiova, Romania. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Craiova, 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 Craiova. Compare the rates and services of the 3 types of stays and 4 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage.

Experience the best of Craiova with an expertly curated and fully customizable itinerary. Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Craiova from our free 24/7 customer support. We make it easy for you to find and book every detail of your trip to Craiova with this travel guide.

Continue reading this Craiova travel guide to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Craiova!

With destinations such as Craiova, 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 Craiova alone, travelers are spoiled for choice with an array of experiences and world-famous attractions such as Nicolae Romanescu Park, "Alexandru Buia" Botanical Garden, and English 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.

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

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

For those seeking the best flight ticket deals to Craiova, 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 Craiova. Go to this page to compare all flights to Craiova.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Craiova is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience. The best place to stay in Craiova usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodations in central Craiova 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 Craiova and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Craiova planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Craiova, you'll find 3 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 luxury hotels in Craiova. 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 Craiova.

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

To navigate Craiova 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 4 car rental companies in Craiova, ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Craiova start at 35 EUR per day or 242 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Dacia Logan. If you prefer driving a manual car, you'll find multiple options for rent in Craiova, starting at 28 EUR per day or 193 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Toyota Aygo.

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

The city of Craiova 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 Craiova. 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.

Navigating through Craiova, Romania’s 6th largest city, is made easy by a range of transportation options.

Public transit is a popular choice with an extensive bus network operated by RAT Craiova. The buses are reliable, covering all major areas of the city, including tourist attractions, shopping centers, and residential areas. Trams and trolleys are another great option for getting around the city.

For those who prefer a more private mode of transport, taxis are widely available throughout Craiova. They are affordable and can be hailed directly from the street or booked via local taxi apps. Rental cars are another viable option for those wishing to explore at their own pace. Numerous rental agencies are available, offering a wide selection of vehicles.

Lastly, for a unique local transportation experience, take a leisurely ride in a horse-drawn carriage, particularly popular in the city's parks. It's a charming way to see the city, giving a nod to Craiova’s rich history.

Experience the authentic charm of Romania by expanding your travels beyond the boundaries of Craiova. 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 Craiova 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 Craiova.