Cluj-Napoca
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Cluj-Napoca
Cluj-Napoca, often referred to as the unofficial capital of Transylvania, is a vibrant and lively city with a rich cultural history. Despite its ominous administrative status, the city is far from grim and has a well-deserved reputation as a party town. Named the European Youth Capital in 2015, Cluj-Napoca is home to an estimated 100,000 students, who make up about a fifth of the population. This youthful energy, combined with the city's cultural renaissance, makes Cluj-Napoca a must-visit destination for anyone interested in experiencing the vibrant arts and entertainment scene.Find your trip
Refreshingly shaded in the summer and still well-visited during the colder winter months, Cluj-Napoca's Central Park is a lively social hub that hosts concerts, contains free-to-use sporting machines, and even offers boats for hire (to be put to use on the park's own lake).
The green oasis of tranquillity that is Alexandru Borza Botanical Garden lies just outside Cluj's Old Town. Inside, a multitude of flora species are on display, from tropical flowers to Nordic mosses sprawling over rock arrangements. There is an on-site museum of plant kingdom curiosities and even a compact Japanese Garden.
The open-air ethnographic museum of Romulus Vuia contains replicas of traditional Romanian architecture from across the country (complete with interior design detail and household items), all of which span centuries. The museum also grants visitors insight into the arts of woodwork, fabric weaving, pottery, and more.
Cluj-Napoca's central Union Square (Piata Unirii) contains the nation's second most prominent Gothic church with a tall clock tower from which some of the best city panoramas unfold. Dating back to as early as the 14th century, the church still holds daily mass (in Romanian and Hungarian) to-date.
A 15-minute hike will take you up Cluj-Napoca's most scenic observation point, the Cetatuia Hill (just across the river from the Old Town). The hill's park-like environment draws in locals and visitors in-the-know, and a plethora of cafes offer sit-down snack and/or drink breaks.
Cluj Napoca's second most popular square is indeed in immediate proximity to one of the town's most important museums (the National Museum of Transylvanian History), but is an appealing spot in its own right for the outdoor bars, cafes, and an irresistible old-age charm.
A place of rare natural beauty a mere 15km away from Cluj-Napoca, the Turda Gorge is excellent hiking grounds for explorers of any fitness level. Persevere all the way to the top (which shouldn't take more than an hour) and enjoy some incredible, sweeping views of the green surroundings. Sundays here tend to be the busiest.
If a trip to the theatre isn't something you would initially consider doing during your stay in Cluj, think again - the city's National Theater is heralded as one of the best in the country, and regularly puts on an ever-changing selection of musical and theatrical performances (check their website for news and schedules).
Refreshingly shaded in the summer and still well-visited during the colder winter months, Cluj-Napoca's Central Park is a lively social hub that hosts concerts, contains free-to-use sporting machines, and even offers boats for hire (to be put to use on the park's own lake).
The green oasis of tranquillity that is Alexandru Borza Botanical Garden lies just outside Cluj's Old Town. Inside, a multitude of flora species are on display, from tropical flowers to Nordic mosses sprawling over rock arrangements. There is an on-site museum of plant kingdom curiosities and even a compact Japanese Garden.
Out of the tourist way yet still very central, Roata is an excellent choice for those looking to dine on traditional Romanian specialties (those are normally rather meat-heavy, but non-meat eaters will also find a lot to chose from). To sample multiple dishes at once, try the full platter.
With its rustic, pastel-colored furniture set against raw brick walls, Nuka Bistro is creatively inspired down to its menu, where a selection of original burgers named after historic figures such as Count Dracula and Marilyn Monroe is on offer (along with quite a few breakfast options).
Napoca 15's appealing outdoor courtyard seating is complimented by an extensive menu selection of local Romanian and international dishes, with special offers available during lunch. The wine list is graced by a sizable selection of labels from across the globe.
The refined Cabinet de Vin & Cocotte in central Cluj is a natural stand-out on the city's dining scene - the menu selection is concise yet very well though out, featuring a curious fusion of seafood (sashimi, oysters, and escargot), meats and Italian dishes.
Those feeling disoriented by meat-heavy Transylvanian cuisine will find refuge at Samsara, a restaurant that caters to vegetarian and vegan eaters, and yet still hugely appeals to those with no dietary restrictions. Healthy foods and green smoothies must be followed by decadent desserts.
Indigo may not follow authentic Indian recipes to the letter, but the liberties it takes are fully justified by the delicious outcome. Some of the restaurant's highlights are the tasting sets and platters intended to be shared by up to 4 diners, as well as the extensive selection of traditional flat breads.
Wasabi is a running sushi restaurant that successfully pulls off combining affordable pricing with quality, and offers a dining concept irresistible to many - a 1-hour all you can eat & drink experience, with prompt conveyor order delivery and service. Located inside the Iulius Shopping Mall.
Out of the tourist way yet still very central, Roata is an excellent choice for those looking to dine on traditional Romanian specialties (those are normally rather meat-heavy, but non-meat eaters will also find a lot to chose from). To sample multiple dishes at once, try the full platter.
With its rustic, pastel-colored furniture set against raw brick walls, Nuka Bistro is creatively inspired down to its menu, where a selection of original burgers named after historic figures such as Count Dracula and Marilyn Monroe is on offer (along with quite a few breakfast options).
For an authentic Transylvanian marketplace experience, try Cluj-Napoca's Central Market, where dozens of vendors come together daily to offer some of the freshest, locally-grown produce to city residents. Communication may be a challenge, but navigating the kaleidoscope of stalls can be a joy nonetheless.
Just outside Cluj's town center lies the Vivo mall, whose entrance is marked by two towers modeled after the old Romanian architectural tradition. The shopping center contains a whole range of local and international brand stores and boutiques, as well as entertainment venues and a large supermarket.
For a taste of celebrated regional wines, try Crama Noastra - Cluj's most well-regarded wine boutique with an ever-changing selection of wines available for tasting (up to 10 different kinds on any given week). Professional staff are there to advise.
The toy-like BonBon is an ultimate candy store, packed to the brim with sweets of all varieties imaginable - from jelly beans to cookies, chocolate, macaroons and cup cakes, all set picture-perfectly against the pastel backdrop of the store's interior.
Romania's own leather product brand, Marelbo is an acclaimed manufacturer of men's and women's footwear, belts, bags, and all possible leather accessories. Prices are more than reasonable for the quality - the brand has even been distinguished by multiple national and international awards.
Iulius is a well-established local shopping mall that's been around for nearly a decade. Apart from a wide range of shops and stores, the mall is known for its extensive food court and a low-cost supermarket contained inside. There is an on-site entertainment center complete with a cinema and game centre.
Perhaps the oldest shopping center in town, Central isn't just a shopping location but a meeting point for local residents. Its array of stores includes local and international clothing, jewellery, and cosmetics brands. Restaurants, services, and an affordable supermarket are all on-site.
Located in the heart of the student quarter, Libraria Humanitas is a bookstore favoured by the city's young residents, and one that stocks quite the selection of English-language books, along with board games, stationery and other paraphernalia.
For an authentic Transylvanian marketplace experience, try Cluj-Napoca's Central Market, where dozens of vendors come together daily to offer some of the freshest, locally-grown produce to city residents. Communication may be a challenge, but navigating the kaleidoscope of stalls can be a joy nonetheless.
Just outside Cluj's town center lies the Vivo mall, whose entrance is marked by two towers modeled after the old Romanian architectural tradition. The shopping center contains a whole range of local and international brand stores and boutiques, as well as entertainment venues and a large supermarket.
Located only 9km away from the city centre, Cluj International Airport primarily serves destinations across Europe. There is a public bus service (buses 8 & 5) that runs between the airport and central Cluj (tickets may be purchased at "Bilete" booths prior to boarding, these are often found at bus stops), but taxis and rental cars are also readily available for hire.
Most attractions within the city center are easy to reach on foot. For longer distance travel, make use of the excellent public transportation system comprised of buses, trolleybuses and trams. Tickets must be purchased at special kiosks prior to boarding; some stops are equipped with ticket vending machines.
Taxis are normally equipped with a meter, which means prices are calculated by distance driven. Taxis may be flagged down or hired directly in the street. Nova Taxi +40 745 151000 Diesel Taxi +40 745 381532 +40 722 859093
There are several post offices throughout Cluj. 33 Strada Regele Ferdinand +40 725 907 444 Mon-Fri 8am-7pm, Sat 9am-1pm
Viafarm(open 24/7) Piata Mihai Viteazu, Cluj-Napoca +40 264 434 182 Sensiblu 1 Strada Samuil Micu, Cluj-Napoca +40 264 591 166 Mon-Fri 8am-9pm
Romania country code: +40 Cluj-Napoca city code: 264
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Located only 9km away from the city centre, Cluj International Airport primarily serves destinations across Europe. There is a public bus service (buses 8 & 5) that runs between the airport and central Cluj (tickets may be purchased at "Bilete" booths prior to boarding, these are often found at bus stops), but taxis and rental cars are also readily available for hire.
Most attractions within the city center are easy to reach on foot. For longer distance travel, make use of the excellent public transportation system comprised of buses, trolleybuses and trams. Tickets must be purchased at special kiosks prior to boarding; some stops are equipped with ticket vending machines.
