Oltenia Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and local must-try foods in Oltenia, Romania. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Oltenia

Nestled in the heart of Romania, Oltenia is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. With its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and unique local traditions, this region offers an unforgettable travel experience for all kinds of travelers.

Oltenia is located in the southwestern part of Romania, bordering Serbia and Bulgaria. It is a historic land, home to several ethnic and cultural groups, including Romanians, Albanians, and Turks. The region’s capital and largest city is Craiova, a bustling metropolis with a refined cultural scene and a vibrant nightlife. Aside from Craiova, there are plenty of other towns and villages to explore, each with its own distinct charm and character.

Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, or a foodie, Oltenia has something to offer. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will give you an overview of the best things to see, do, and taste in this beautiful region.

List of Places to Visit in Oltenia

Oltenia is a land of contrasts. From the rolling hills of the Carpathian Mountains to the fertile plains of the Danube River, this region boasts a diverse range of landscapes and attractions. Here are some of the top places to visit in Oltenia:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Oltenia has a rich cultural heritage that dates back centuries. You can explore its history and traditions by visiting some of its most culturally important attractions:

  • The Museum of Oltenian Costumes and Traditional Crafts - Craiova
  • The Art Museum - Craiova
  • The Art Museum - Targu Jiu
  • The Museum of History and Archaeology - Targu Jiu
  • The Tismana Monastery - Tismana
  • The Cozia Monastery - Caciulata
  • The Horezu Monastery - Horezu
  • The Govora Monastery - Govora

Natural Attractions of Oltenia: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you want to experience the raw beauty of Oltenia, there are plenty of natural attractions to explore. These include:

  • The Danube River
  • The Iron Gates National Park
  • The Cozia Mountains
  • The Parang Mountains
  • The Retezat Mountains
  • The Transalpina Road
  • The Olt River Gorges
  • The Mud Volcanoes of Paclele

Hiking/Biking Routes of Oltenia

Hiking and biking are great ways to explore the scenic beauty of Oltenia. The region offers plenty of trails and routes for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the best hiking and biking routes include:

  • The Cozia National Park hiking trail
  • The Transalpina biking route
  • The Parang Mountains hiking trail
  • The Subcarpathian hills biking route
  • The Retezat Mountains hiking trail

Best Things to Do in Oltenia: Activities and Tours

Aside from hiking and biking, Oltenia has plenty of other activities and tours to offer. Some of the best things to do in the region include:

  • The Danube Delta boat tour
  • The Oltenian wine tasting tour
  • The Craiova city sightseeing tour
  • The Horezu pottery workshop tour
  • The Tismana Monastery pilgrimage tour

Week-Long Itinerary for Oltenia

To make the most of your time in Oltenia, here is a suggested week-long itinerary:

Day 1: Explore Craiova’s historical landmarks, including the St. Dumitru Church and the Art Museum.

Day 2: Hike in the Cozia National Park and visit the Cozia Monastery.

Day 3: Visit the Museum of Oltenian Costumes and Traditional Crafts and the Tismana Monastery.

Day 4: Explore the Iron Gates National Park and take a boat tour on the Danube River.

Day 5: Discover the historic landmarks and attractions in Targu Jiu, including the Endless Column and the Brancusi Park.

Day 6: Take a tour of the Horezu pottery workshop and visit the Horezu Monastery.

Day 7: Relax and unwind at one of Oltenia’s scenic resorts, such as the Baile Olanesti or the Calimanesti-Caciulata.

Food and Drink Scene of Oltenia

Oltenia is famous for its hearty traditional cuisine, which features a rich blend of flavors and influences. Some must-try dishes include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sarmale - cabbage rolls filled with a mix of ground meat and vegetables
  • Mici - grilled meatballs made from minced meat and spices
  • Ciorba - a sour soup with vegetables and meat
  • Pastrama - a smoked and spiced meat dish
  • Mamaliga - a cornmeal porridge served with cheese and sour cream

Local Beverages

  • Tuica - a type of brandy made from plums
  • Horinca - a type of brandy made from plums or apples
  • Romanian wine - Oltenia is known for its high-quality wines, particularly red wines such as Feteasca Neagra and Pinot Noir.

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

Oltenia offers a range of accommodation options to suit every budget, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses. Here are some of the top places to stay in the region:

  • Hotel Ramada Plaza Craiova
  • Hotel Mercure Craiova
  • Boutique Hotel Marina
  • Guesthouse Casa Viscu
  • Hostel Rooster

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

If you’re looking for unique souvenirs and local products to bring home, Oltenia has plenty to offer. Some things to buy include:

  • Horezu pottery - handmade ceramics with intricate designs
  • Traditional costumes and textiles
  • Tuica and other local alcoholic beverages
  • Local honey and jams
  • Wooden handicrafts

Local Culture and Customs of Oltenia

Oltenia has a unique blend of cultural traditions and customs, shaped by its diverse ethnic and religious groups. Some interesting facts about Oltenian culture include:

  • Oltenia is known for its lively traditional music, which often includes instruments such as the accordion and the panpipe.
  • The region is home to several traditional dances, such as the “hora” and the “calusarii”.
  • Oltenia has a rich tradition of folklore and storytelling, with many legends and myths passed on from generation to generation.

Best Time to Visit Oltenia

The best time to visit Oltenia is during the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are thinner. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter can be cold and snowy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Oltenia

To make the most of your trip to Oltenia, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine, especially the traditional dishes.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Explore the natural beauty of the region, including its parks and mountains.

Don’t:

  • Speak loudly or act disrespectfully in religious buildings.
  • Ignore local customs or traditions.
  • Litter or damage natural landmarks or attractions.

Safety and Health

Oltenia is generally a safe and healthy region to visit, but it’s always important to take precautions. Here are some safety and health tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Oltenia

  • Keep your valuables secure and avoid flashing them in public.
  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night or in crowded areas.
  • Stay informed of any local safety concerns.

Health in Oltenia

  • Drink bottled water to avoid stomach problems.
  • Use sunscreen and stay hydrated, especially during hot weather.
  • Seek medical attention if you experience any health concerns or symptoms.

Getting to Oltenia: Transportation Options and Logistics

Oltenia is easily accessible by several means of transportation. Here are some of the best options:

Airports Near Oltenia

  • Craiova International Airport
  • Bucharest Henri Coanda International Airport

Bus Stations Near Oltenia

  • Autogari.ro (for buses to Craiova, Targu Jiu, and other nearby destinations)

Other Options

  • Train - there are several trains that run from Bucharest to Craiova and other major cities in Oltenia.
  • Car rental - if you prefer to drive yourself, there are several car rental companies in Craiova and other cities.

How to Get Around in Oltenia

Oltenia has a well-developed transportation system, including buses, trains, and taxis. Public transportation is affordable and reliable, with buses and trains connecting all major cities and towns. Taxis are also available and are a good option for short distances or when traveling late at night.

Where to Go Next from Oltenia: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you want to explore more of Romania after visiting Oltenia, there are plenty of nearby destinations and excursions to choose from. Some of the best options include:

  • Bucharest - the capital and largest city of Romania
  • Bran Castle - a famous castle associated with the legend of Dracula
  • Sighisoara - a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best preserved medieval towns in Europe

Conclusion

Oltenia offers a rich cultural experience and a range of exciting activities for travelers of all interests. From hiking in the mountains to exploring historic landmarks and sampling traditional dishes, this region offers a unique and unforgettable vacation. Plan your trip to Oltenia today and discover the heart of Romania for yourself.



    Calafat
    Horezu
    Râmnicu Vâlcea
    Slatina
    Târgu Jiu