Bicaz Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture of Bicaz, Romania. Plan your journey with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Bicaz

Bicaz is a small town situated in the Moldavia region of Romania. It is known for its stunning nature and outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. Bicaz is also rich in history and culture, offering a range of museums and landmarks to explore.

In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with everything you need to plan your trip to Bicaz. From places to visit, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scenes, to local culture and customs, we have got you covered.

List of Places to Visit in Bicaz

Bicaz is a town that has much to offer, including culturally important attractions, stunning natural landmarks, and adventurous outdoor experiences. Here is a list of places to visit in Bicaz:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Bicaz Gorge - This is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Bicaz. The gorge runs for about 8 km and is flanked by towering cliffs, making it a popular spot for hiking and rock climbing.

  2. Red Lake - A beautiful alpine lake situated in the Eastern Carpathians. It is known for its stunning red color, which is caused by iron oxide deposits. The lake has a range of water activities, including fishing and boating.

  3. The Bicaz Fortress - This fortress was built by the Moldavian prince Petru Rares in the 16th century. Today, it stands as a testament to the region’s rich history and culture.

  4. The Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary - This beautiful and historic church was built in 1599 and is still in use today.

Natural Attractions of Bicaz: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Hășmaș Mountains - These are some of the most scenic mountains in Romania, offering a range of hiking and rock climbing options.

  2. The Bicaz Canyon - This natural wonder is a great spot for hiking, cycling, and rock climbing. It is also known for its stunning views and unique rock formations.

  3. The Izvorul Muntelui Lake - This lake is one of the largest reservoirs in Romania, offering a range of water activities such as fishing, boating, and swimming.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bicaz

Bicaz is a hiker’s paradise, with a range of trails and routes that cater to all levels of experience. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes Bicaz has to offer:

  1. The Hiking Trail to the Bicazului Gorges - This trail runs through the gorges and offers some of the most stunning views in the area. The trail is about 10 km long and takes about 6 hours to complete.

  2. The Biking Trail around Lake Izvorul Muntelui - This trail takes you around the lake and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The trail is about 30 km long and takes about 3 hours to complete.

  3. The Hiking Trail to the Hășmaș Mountains - This trail takes you up the mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding valleys. The trail is about 15 km long and takes about 8 hours to complete.

Best Things to Do in Bicaz: Activities and Tours

Bicaz offers a range of activities and tours that cater to all types of travelers. Here are some of the best things to do in Bicaz:

  1. Rock Climbing in Bicaz Gorge - Bicaz Gorge is known for its challenging rock climbing routes, making it a great spot for experienced climbers.

  2. Boat Tour of Red Lake - Take a boat tour of Red Lake to see the stunning scenery and learn about the lake’s history and geology.

  3. Fishing in Izvorul Muntelui Lake - Izvorul Muntelui Lake is a popular spot for fishing, with a range of fish species available, including carp and pike.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bicaz

Here is a week-long itinerary for Bicaz that will allow you to see all the best spots and experience everything the town has to offer:

Day Activity
1 Explore Bicaz Gorge and the Fortress
2 Go Hiking in the Hășmaș Mountains
3 Take a Boat Tour of Red Lake
4 Visit The Church of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary
5 Go Fishing in Izvorul Muntelui Lake
6 Take a Biking Tour of Bicaz Canyon
7 Relax at a local restaurant and enjoy the local food and drink

Food and Drink Scene of Bicaz

Bicaz has a vibrant food and drink scene that reflects the town’s history and culture. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Sarmale - A traditional Romanian dish made with cabbage leaves stuffed with a mix of minced pork and beef, rice, and vegetables.

  2. Papanași - A dessert made with cottage cheese, eggs, flour, and sugar. It is fried and typically served with sour cream and fruit preserves.

  3. Mici - A type of grilled sausage made with minced meat, garlic, and spices.

Local Beverages

  1. Tuică - A strong alcoholic beverage made from plums. It is traditionally served as a welcome drink.

  2. Beer - Romania has a thriving beer culture, and there are several local beers to try, such as Ursus, Timișoreana, and Ciuc.

Where to Stay in Bicaz: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bicaz has a range of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some of the best options:

  1. Hotel Bicaz - A modern hotel located in the heart of the town, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

  2. Pensiunea Daria - A traditional Romanian guesthouse located on the shores of Izvorul Muntelui Lake.

  3. Iulia Guesthouse - A charming guesthouse located in the heart of the town, with easy access to all the main attractions.

What to Buy in Bicaz: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bicaz has a range of local products and souvenirs to bring home as a reminder of your trip. Here are some of the best options:

  1. Handmade woolen socks - These socks are made with 100% natural wool and are a warm and comfortable souvenir to bring home.

  2. Honey - Bicaz is known for its local honey, which is made from the nectar of local flowers.

  3. Traditional Romanian crafts - You can find a range of handmade crafts, such as pottery and woodcarvings in the local shops and markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Bicaz

Romania has a rich history and culture, and Bicaz is no exception. Here are some of the local customs and traditions:

  1. Folk music and dance - Romania has a vibrant music and dance culture, and you can often see local groups performing in the town square or at festivals.

  2. Traditional costumes - Many locals still wear traditional Romanian costumes for special occasions, such as weddings or national holidays.

  3. Dracula - Romania is famous for its association with the fictional character Dracula. While Bicaz is not directly linked to the legend, you can find several local businesses that play up the connection.

Best Time to Visit Bicaz

The best time to visit Bicaz is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is warm and sunny, and the outdoor activities are in full swing. However, Bicaz is also beautiful during the fall months (September-November) when the leaves change colors.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bicaz

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Bicaz:

Do:

  1. Do respect the local customs and traditions.

  2. Do try the local cuisine - it is delicious!

  3. Do bring comfortable shoes for hiking and outdoor activities.

Don’t:

  1. Don’t litter - help keep Bicaz beautiful by disposing of your trash properly.

  2. Don’t make fun of local customs and traditions - show respect for the local culture.

  3. Don’t forget to tip in restaurants and cafes.

Safety and Health

Bicaz is a safe town with low crime rates. However, it is always wise to take basic safety precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of your surroundings.

Safety in Bicaz

Bicaz is a safe town, but visitors should still take basic safety precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of their surroundings when out at night.

Health in Bicaz

Bicaz has a range of medical facilities, including hospitals and clinics. Visitors should ensure they have travel insurance before visiting and take any necessary precautions, such as getting vaccinations, before travel.

Getting to Bicaz: Transportation Options and Logistics

Bicaz is situated in the Moldavia region of Romania and can be easily reached by a range of transportation options.

Airports Near Bicaz

The nearest airport to Bicaz is Bacau International Airport (BCM), which is about 100 km away.

Bus Stations Near Bicaz

There are several bus stations near Bicaz, including:

  • Gura Humorului Bus Station
  • Piatra Neamț Bus Station

Other Options

There are several train stations near Bicaz, with regular services to major cities in Romania.

How to Get Around in Bicaz

Bicaz is a small town, and visitors can easily explore on foot. However, to reach some of the more remote hiking trails and landmarks, it is best to rent a car or a bike.

Where to Go Next from Bicaz: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bicaz is situated in the heart of Moldavia and offers easy access to some of Romania’s best destinations, including:

  • Suceava - A historic city known for its beautiful monasteries and stunning architecture.
  • Iasi - A vibrant university town known for its cultural and artistic scene.
  • Brasov - A medieval city located in the Carpathian Mountains, with stunning views and a range of outdoor activities.

Conclusion

Bicaz is a hidden gem in Romania that offers a range of outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, and stunning natural landmarks. We hope this comprehensive guide has provided you with everything you need to plan your trip to Bicaz and make the most of your time in this beautiful part of the world.