Alexandria Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, and travel tips to make the most of your trip to Alexandria, Romania.


Introduction to Alexandria

Located in Wallachian Plain, Muntenia region, Romania, Alexandria is a beautiful city in the Balkans known for its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and historical significance. Originally founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC, Alexandria is now a thriving city that offers travelers a unique mix of ancient history and modern-day attractions. Whether you’re interested in exploring museums and historical landmarks, hiking and biking, or simply enjoying the local food and drink scene, Alexandria has something to offer every traveler.

List of Places to Visit in Alexandria

Here are some must-visit places in Alexandria:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Muzeul Județean de Istorie și Arheologie Teleorman: This museum showcases the region’s history and cultural heritage, featuring exhibits on artifacts from the Paleolithic era to the modern period.
  • Casa Memorială Alexandru Davila: The birthplace of Alexandru Davila, a prominent physician and writer, has been turned into a museum and memorial house where you can learn about his life and contributions to Romanian cultural and political history.
  • Turnul lui Traian: Built during the Roman Empire, the Tower of Trajan is an impressive ancient monument that offers panoramic views of the city.

Natural Attractions of Alexandria: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Parcul Balnear Termal Therma: Located in the heart of the city, this scenic park features a natural thermal spring bath that is perfect for a relaxing day trip.
  • Parcul Cornisa: Known for its beautiful gardens, walking trails and scenic views of the Olt River, this park is a popular spot for hiking and picnicking.
  • Valea Prahovei: A stunning valley located nearby Alexandria that offers breathtaking views and outdoor adventures like hiking, rock-climbing and skiing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Alexandria

Alexandria is a great place for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some popular routes to explore:

  • Alexandria Viaduct Loop: A scenic hike through the city center which provides panoramic views of the city.
  • Iron Gates Nature Park: A beautiful trail that takes you through the nature reserve with amazing views of the Olt River and its surroundings
  • Bechet Forest: A perfect location for cyclers. This route provides an escape from the city and sets an idyllic scene to cycle through.

Best Things to Do in Alexandria: Activities and Tours

  • Visit the Teleorman County Museum of History and Archaeology
  • Take a guided city tour and explore the historical landmarks
  • Take a dip in the natural hot springs at Parcul Balnear Termal Therma
  • Hike through the Bechet forest and enjoy the scenic views
  • Taste the traditional local cuisine and drinks

Week-Long Itinerary for Alexandria

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for Alexandria:

Day Activity
1 Visit Turnul lui Traian and Casa Memorială Alexandru Davila
2 Explore the Teleorman County Museum of History and Archaeology
3 Take a guided tour of the city center and see the historical landmarks with a local guide
4 Take a relaxing dip in the natural hot springs at Parcul Balnear Termal Therma
5 Go hiking through the Bechet forest and have a picnic with scenic views
6 Take a day trip to Valea Prahovei and enjoy skiing or rock climbing
7 Try traditional local cuisine and drinks and buy souvenirs to take back home

Food and Drink Scene of Alexandria

Alexandria is full of restaurants and cafes that offer traditional Romanian fare with a modern twist. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sarmale: fresh cabbage leaves rolled up and filled with minced meat, rice, and tomato sauce
  • Mămăligă: a traditional cornmeal porridge served with cheese and sour cream
  • Plachia: a slow-cooked stew made with fish and tomato sauce

Local Beverages

  • Tuica: a strong alcoholic beverage often made from plums
  • Bere: The local beer that is a Romanian staple

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

Here are some options for accommodations in Alexandria:

  • Hotel Elizabeth: A modern hotel with a great view of the city
  • Hostel Alexandria: A centrally located hostel that offers affordable rates
  • Vila Zorile: A charming guesthouse with traditional Romanian decor

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

Some great souvenirs to bring back home include local castle wines, handmade pottery by local artisans, and traditional woven textiles from the surrounding villages.

Local Culture and Customs of Alexandria

Romanians are known for their friendliness and hospitality. It’s polite to greet people with a handshake and say “Bună ziua” (Good day) or “Salut” (Hello) when greeting someone. Additionally, tipping is expected in restaurants and cafes.

Best Time to Visit Alexandria

The best time to visit Alexandria is from May to September where you can enjoy warm and sunny weather and outdoor activities. Winter is cold and snowy, and some attractions may be closed, so it is necessary to check with relevant centers whether they manage to run during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Alexandria

Do:

  • Try traditional Romanian cuisine and drinks
  • Wear comfortable shoes for hiking and walking
  • Be respectful of local customs and cultural heritage

Don’t:

  • Drink tap water, drink bottled water instead
  • Wear revealing or inappropriate clothing when visiting religious landmarks

Safety and Health

Safety in Alexandria

Alexandria is a generally safe city, but you should still take basic precautions such as keeping your valuables safe, especially when walking around the central market area.

Health in Alexandria

Medical facilities in Alexandria are generally good, but visitors should take out travel insurance, which can cover hospital stays and emergency medical care.

Getting to Alexandria: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Alexandria

Alexandria does not have an airport of its own, but it is easily accessible with airports in Romania such as Henri Coanda International Airport (OTP) in Bucharest, situated about an hour and a half ride from Alexandria.

Bus Stations Near Alexandria

Alexandria has a bus station that is located 10 minutes by car from the city center. Visitors can take a bus to and from cities like Bucharest, and other Romanian cities.

Other Options

Trains also run through Alexandria making in accessible via rail to and from neighboring.

How to Get Around in Alexandria

Getting around Alexandria is fairly easy as it’s a small city. Walking is the best way to explore the city, and for places that are further away, taxis are also affordable and accessible.

Where to Go Next from Alexandria: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to explore after your visit to Alexandria:

  • Bucharest: The capital city of Romania is less than two hours away by car and offers a great urban experience.
  • Dacian Fortress from Costesti: A stunning archeological fortress located nearby Alexandria
  • Snagov Forest: A dense forest located around 100 km from Alexandria most famously known for housing Dracula’s Tomb.

Conclusion

Underappreciated and left off of the beaten path of tourism in Romania, Alexandria is a beautiful destination with a rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and modern-day attractions. From the fascinating museums and historical landmarks to the scenic hiking/biking routes, visitors can explore much of what Alexandria has to offer in a single day trip. We hope this guide inspires you to visit and discover everything that Alexandria has to offer.

Alexandria Cathedral Alexandria Cathedral