Danube Delta Travel Guide

Plan your visit to Danube Delta, a beautiful natural wonder in Romania. Learn about its top attractions, outdoor adventures, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, dos and don'ts, safety, transportation options, and nearby destinations.


Introduction to Danube Delta

Danube Delta is a unique natural attraction located in Northern Dobruja, Romania, at the point where the Danube River flows into the Black Sea. It is a paradise for nature lovers, home to various species of flora and fauna, and offers endless outdoor recreational activities.

List of Places to Visit in Danube Delta

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Museum of the Danube Delta in Tulcea - This museum is dedicated to the history and wildlife of the delta. It showcases exhibits of flora and fauna, traditional tools, and fishing equipment used by locals.
  • Letea Forest - This is one of the most preserved and unique ecosystems in Europe. It is home to the world’s oldest and largest sand dunes, alongside an ancient oak forest that is over 500 years old.
  • The Celic-Dere Monastery - This 15th-century monastery is located on one of the delta’s largest islands. It is a popular spot for tourists due to its unique architecture and historical significance.

Natural Attractions of Danube Delta: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Boat tours - This is one of the most popular ways to explore the delta. Tour companies provide various tours that range from one hour to a full day of exploration.
  • Wildlife spotting - Danube Delta is home to over 300 species of birds and has a variety of wildlife from wild horses to foxes and otters. You can hire a specialized guide to take you on a tour to spot the rarest flora and fauna.
  • Kayaking and canoeing - Enjoy the tranquil waters of the delta and get up close and personal with its unique ecosystems.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Danube Delta

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, the Danube Delta has plenty of hiking and biking trails to offer. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Letea Forest - It is suitable for both hiking and biking with a 35km trail to explore.
  • Sulina-Periprava - It starts from Sulina and ends in Periprava with a 42km trail that takes you through some of the most spectacular views of the delta.

Best Things to Do in Danube Delta: Activities and Tours

  • Take a boat tour
  • Visit the Letea Forest
  • Kayak or Canoe
  • Visit the Museum of the Danube Delta
  • Visit the Celic-Dere Monastery

Week-Long Itinerary for Danube Delta

Day 1 – Arrival, check-in, and explore nearby restaurants and bars. Day 2 – Take a boat tour along the Danube Delta River. Day 3 – Go hiking/biking in the Letea Forest and nearby areas. Day 4 – Visit the Museum of the Danube Delta or explore nearby historical places. Day 5 – Kayaking or canoeing in the delta. Day 6 – Visit the Celic-Dere Monastery, Sulina, and view the Black Sea. Day 7 – Explore the local culinary scene, and shop for souvenirs before departure.

Food and Drink Scene of Danube Delta

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fish Soup (Ciorba de peste)
  • Fried Pike-perch (Scrumbie prajita).
  • Carp roasted on an open fire (Scrumbie la gratar)

Local Beverages

  • Sura - a traditional drink made of fermented wheat.
  • Braga - a traditional alcoholic beverage made from corn.
  • Tuica - a type of brandy made from plums.

Where to Stay in Danube Delta: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several options for accommodation in Danube Delta, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses.

  • Eco Delta Resort is a popular choice among travelers. It offers a comfortable stay with eco-friendly amenities, such as solar panels, and an on-site eco-restaurant.
  • Delta Nature Resort offers guests a comfortable stay with activities such as wildlife spotting, boating tours, and bird watching.

What to Buy in Danube Delta: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some of the locally made souvenirs and products to bring home are:

  • Hand-woven baskets made by the locals.
  • Traditional textiles like scarfs, tablecloths that showcase the unique style of the Delta’s culture.
  • Honey and Jam made with natural ingredients from the Delta.

Local Culture and Customs of Danube Delta

The Danube Delta is home to a rich culture and customs dating back hundreds of years. The locals are welcoming and hospitable, and tourists can learn about their tradition and customs.

  • The local traditions are mainly based on fishing and agriculture.
  • Some of the local customs include the May 1st festival, where locals celebrate the beginning of the fishing season.

Best Time to Visit Danube Delta

The best time to visit Danube Delta is between May and September when the weather is pleasant, and the delta’s flora and fauna are at their peak.

Do’s and Don’ts of Danube Delta

Do:

  • Respect the locals and their traditions.
  • Keep the delta clean and take your litter with you.

Don’t:

  • Swim in the Danube Delta as it can be dangerous.
  • Buy souvenirs made from illegal hunting or fishing activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Danube Delta

The Delta is a safe place to visit. However, tourists should be mindful of their surroundings and take the necessary precautions, such as putting on sunscreen, wearing appropriate shoes, and having a first-aid kit.

Health in Danube Delta

Drink only bottled water to avoid illnesses that can be caused by contaminated water sources. While hiking or biking, be sure to carry enough food and water to avoid dehydration.

Getting to Danube Delta: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Danube Delta

  • Tulcea Airport is the closest airport to Danube Delta
  • Henri Coanda International Airport located in Bucharest is the busiest airport in Romania.

Bus Stations Near Danube Delta

  • Tulcea Bus station is located close to the city center.
  • Bucharest Bus Terminals provide regular services to Tulcea.

Other Options

  • Ferry services are available from Braila to Tulcea.
  • Driving is also an option. You can hire a car from any of the major car rental companies in Romania.

How to Get Around in Danube Delta

Some of the ways to get around Danube Delta are:

  • Boat rides - This is the most common way of transportation.
  • Hiking/biking - The delta has well-defined trails for hiking and biking.
  • Kayaking/Canoeing- This mode of transportation is perfect for exploring the delta’s narrow canals.

Where to Go Next from Danube Delta: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some of the nearby destinations and excursions from Danube Delta that you can explore are:

  • Bucharest - The capital of Romania is a 4-hour drive from Tulcea.
  • Constanta - It is located on the coast of the Black Sea and is known for its beautiful beaches.
  • The Painted Monasteries - They are a series of 15th century monasteries located in Bucovina, UNESCO World Heritage sites with unique architecture and beautiful frescoes.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a unique, natural, and adventure-filled vacation, Danube Delta should definitely be on your list. With its rich cultural heritage, unique flora and fauna, and endless outdoor activities, it is a fantastic destination for travelers from all over the world.

Dalmatian Pelican and Great Cormorant in the Danube Delta Dalmatian Pelican and Great Cormorant in the Danube Delta