Alba County Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, food, accommodations, and more in Alba County, Romania. This comprehensive travel guide includes information on places to visit, hiking and biking routes, local culture and customs, safety precautions, transportation options, and nearby excursions.


Introduction to Alba County

Located in the heart of Transylvania, Alba County is an enchanting destination with a rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant cultural traditions. The county is named after its capital city, Alba Iulia, which boasts one of the most impressive fortified citadels in Europe, the Alba Carolina Fortress. Throughout the centuries, the region has been influenced by various ethnic groups, including Romans, Hungarians, Saxons, and Transylvanian Romanians, who have left their mark on the local architecture, cuisine, and folklore. Alba County is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of history, nature, and hospitality, and it’s waiting to be explored by adventurous travelers.

List of Places to Visit in Alba County

When it comes to sightseeing, Alba County has plenty to offer, from medieval citadels to natural wonders. Here are some of the must-see attractions in the area:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Alba Carolina Fortress: The main landmark of Alba County, the fortress was built in the 18th century by the Habsburg Empire and restored in recent years. It houses several museums, including the National Union Museum, the Princely Palace, and the Batthyaneum Library.
  • The Roman Castrum: Located in Alba Iulia, the Roman Castrum is a historical park that showcases the remains of the Roman occupation in Dacia. You can discover the ruins of an amphitheater, a thermae complex, and a gate with guard towers.
  • The Evangelical Cathedral: This stunning Gothic-style church dates back to the 13th century and is located in the medieval town of Câlnic. It features impressive frescoes and a unique double-nave design.
  • The Saxon Fortified Churches: Alba County has several villages inhabited by the Transylvanian Saxons who built fortified churches in the Middle Ages to protect themselves against invaders. Some of the most notable ones are located in Biertan, Câlnic, and Alba Iulia.

Natural Attractions of Alba County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Apuseni Natural Park: The park covers an area of 75,784 hectares and features impressive karst formations, waterfalls, caves, and forests. It offers several hiking trails and outdoor activities, such as rock climbing, caving, and mountain biking.
  • Scarisoara Ice Cave: The cave is located in the Apuseni Mountains and houses the second-largest underground glacier in Europe. Visitors can explore the icy chambers and marvel at the unique formations.
  • Rimetea Village: This picturesque village is nestled in the Trascău Mountains and is renowned for its authentic architecture and stunning views. It’s a perfect destination for hikers, nature lovers, and history buffs alike.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Alba County

Alba County is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering countless trails and routes for hikers, bikers, and mountaineers. Here are some of the most popular ones:

  • Transalpina Highway: Dubbed as the “King of the Carpathians,” the Transalpina is the highest road in Romania, reaching an altitude of 2,145 meters. It crosses the Parâng Mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
  • Râmeț Gorges: This natural reserve is located in the Apuseni Mountains and features a narrow canyon with towering cliffs, waterfalls, and forests. You can follow the hiking trail that leads to the top of the gorge and enjoy the panoramic views.
  • Trascău Mountains: The Trascău Mountains are known for their rugged terrain and diversity of flora and fauna. There are several hiking and biking trails that lead to scenic peaks, hidden waterfalls, and traditional villages.

Best Things to Do in Alba County: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking, there are plenty of other activities and tours that you can enjoy in Alba County. Here are some of the best options:

  • Wine Tasting: Alba County produces some of the finest wines in Romania, especially the Fetească Neagră and Tămâioasă Românească varieties. You can visit the local wineries and sample the delicious wines while learning about the winemaking traditions.
  • Traditional Crafts Workshops: Alba County is proud of its long-standing crafts traditions, such as pottery, weaving, and wood carving. You can visit the workshops and watch the skilled artisans at work, or even try your hand at making your own souvenirs.
  • Horse Riding: There are several stables and equestrian centers in the county that offer horse riding tours through the scenic countryside. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider, you’ll enjoy exploring the unspoiled landscapes on horseback.

Week-Long Itinerary for Alba County

If you have a week to explore Alba County, here’s a suggested itinerary that covers the highlights:

Day Activities
Day 1 Explore Alba Iulia and visit the National Union Museum and the Alba Carolina Fortress
Day 2 Hike along the Râmeț Gorges and visit the Monastery of Râmeț
Day 3 Discover the Saxon Fortified Churches of Câlnic, Biertan, and Alba Iulia
Day 4 Go on a wine tasting tour and visit the Coroanei Segarcea Winery
Day 5 Explore the Rimetea Village and hike along the Trascău Mountains
Day 6 Visit the Scarisoara Ice Cave and the Arieseni Ski Resort
Day 7 Enjoy a horse riding tour and visit the traditional crafts workshops in Salciua

Food and Drink Scene of Alba County

Alba County’s cuisine is influenced by both the Hungarian and Romanian traditions, featuring hearty stews, grilled meats, and homemade pastries. Here are some of the must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Paprikash: A classic Hungarian dish made with chicken or pork, paprika, sour cream, and noodles.
  • Mici: Grilled minced meat rolls served with mustard, bread, and pickles.
  • Stuffed Cabbage: Cabbage rolls stuffed with ground pork, rice, and herbs, served with tomato sauce.
  • Covrigi: A type of pretzel that’s a popular street food snack in Romania.

Local Beverages

  • Palinka: A strong fruit brandy that’s the national drink of Hungary and Romania.
  • Tuica: A traditional plum brandy that’s distilled in the Transylvanian villages.
  • Ursus Beer: A popular Romanian beer that comes in several varieties, including Ursus Premium and Ursus Black.

Where to Stay in Alba County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Alba County has plenty of accommodation options, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some of the best choices:

  • Casa Medievala: A lovely guesthouse located in the heart of Alba Iulia’s citadel, offering comfortable rooms and traditional breakfast.
  • Rimetea Guesthouse: A charming guesthouse in Rimetea village, overlooking the Trascău Mountains and featuring a garden and terrace.
  • Pensiunea Alexia: A cozy guesthouse in Arieseni, with wooden interiors and a restaurant serving local specialties.
  • Hotel Apuseni: A modern hotel in Zlatna, featuring a fitness center, sauna, and bar.

What to Buy in Alba County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Alba County is known for its traditional crafts and local products, which make excellent souvenirs and gifts. Here are some of the best items to bring home:

  • Pottery: Alba County is renowned for its hand-made ceramics, which come in various shapes and colors. You can find pottery workshops in several villages, such as Rimetea and Câlnic.
  • Honey: The county is home to many beekeepers who produce high-quality honey, including acacia, linden, and multifloral varieties. You can buy honey jars at the local markets and fairs.
  • Transylvanian Wines: As mentioned before, Alba County boasts several wineries that produce award-winning wines that reflect the region’s terroir. You can purchase bottles of Fetească Neagră, Tămâioasă Românească, or Pinot Noir to enjoy at home.

Local Culture and Customs of Alba County

Alba County has a rich cultural heritage that’s reflected in its folk traditions, music, and cuisine. The locals are friendly and hospitable, and they take pride in their traditions. Some of the customs that you may encounter include:

  • Transylvanian Saxons’ Traditions: The Saxon communities in Alba County have preserved their distinct cultural traditions, including the dance of the Lads (Jungenstranz) and the Village Fair in Câlnic.
  • Sheep Shearing Festival: In the spring, several villages organize festivals celebrating the sheep shearing tradition, featuring music, dance, and local food.
  • Folk Costume: The traditional costumes of Alba County are colorful and intricate, consisting of embroidered blouses, skirts, aprons, and headscarves. You may see locals wearing these costumes during festivals and traditional events.

Best Time to Visit Alba County

Alba County can be visited year-round, depending on your preferences and interests. The summer months (June-August) are perfect for outdoor activities, such as hiking and biking, and for attending festivals and fairs. The fall (September-November) is a great time to admire the autumn colors and to taste the local wines. The winter (December-February) is ideal for skiing and winter sports, and for experiencing the Transylvanian Christmas traditions. Spring (March-May) is best for nature lovers, as the countryside comes alive with wildflowers and migratory birds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Alba County

Here are some basic rules and tips to make your stay in Alba County enjoyable and respectful:

Do:

  • Learn a few Romanian or Hungarian phrases to communicate with the locals.
  • Respect the local traditions and customs, and dress appropriately when visiting churches and religious sites.
  • Try the local food and drinks, and support the small businesses and artisans.

Don’t:

  • Don’t drink tap water, as it’s not always safe for consumption. Stick to bottled water or boiled water.
  • Don’t litter or damage the natural and historical sites. Always follow the instructions and guidelines provided by the authorities.
  • Don’t be surprised if the locals invite you to join their celebrations or festivals; it’s a sign of their hospitality and friendliness.

Safety and Health

Alba County is a safe destination, and violent crime is rare. However, you should take basic precautions to ensure your safety and well-being:

Safety in Alba County

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded places or public transportation.
  • Keep your valuables and documents in a secure place, and avoid carrying large sums of money or expensive jewelry.
  • Follow the traffic rules and be cautious when driving or crossing the streets.

Health in Alba County

  • Make sure you have comprehensive health insurance that covers medical emergencies and repatriation.
  • Consult with your doctor or travel clinic regarding the recommended vaccines and preventive measures for Romania.
  • Be careful about the food and water you consume, and wash your hands frequently to avoid infections.

Getting to Alba County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Alba County is easily accessible by various means of transportation, including:

Airports Near Alba County

  • Sibiu International Airport (SBZ): Located 70 km from Alba Iulia, the airport receives flights from major European cities, such as London, Munich, or Vienna.
  • Cluj-Napoca International Airport (CLJ): Located 120 km from Alba Iulia, the airport has connections to several European destinations, such as Barcelona, Paris, or London.

Bus Stations Near Alba County

  • Alba Iulia Bus Station: The main bus station of the county, located in the center of Alba Iulia, with connections to major Romanian cities, such as Bucharest, Cluj, or Brasov.
  • Aiud Bus Station: A smaller bus station located in the town of Aiud, with connections to nearby villages and towns.

Other Options

  • Train: Alba Iulia has a train station with connections to major Romanian cities, such as Bucharest, Cluj, or Timisoara.
  • Car Rental: Several international and local car rental companies operate in Romania, with options for pick-up and drop-off at the airports.

How to Get Around in Alba County

The best way to explore Alba County is by car, as public transportation options can be limited in some areas. You can rent a car from the airports or from the main cities, and the roads are generally in good condition. Alternatively, you can use local taxis, which are reliable and affordable, or book tours and excursions with licensed operators.

Where to Go Next from Alba County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking for more destinations to explore in Romania, here are some of the nearby attractions:

  • Sibiu: A beautiful medieval town located in the heart of Transylvania, known for its cobbled streets, colorful houses, and art museums. It’s only a two-hour drive from Alba County.
  • Danube Delta: A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, located in eastern Romania, where the Danube River meets the Black Sea. The delta is home to over 300 species of birds, as well as dolphins, otters, and wild horses. It’s an eight-hour drive from Alba County.
  • Brasov: A charming city located at the foot of the Carpathian Mountains, known for its Gothic-style Black Church, the medieval walls, and the ski resorts. It’s a three-hour drive from Alba County.

Conclusion

Alba County is a picturesque region that offers a unique mix of history, nature, and culture, perfect for adventurous travelers who want to discover off-the-beaten-path destinations in Romania. Whether you’re interested in hiking along the rugged mountains, learning about the Transylvanian Saxons’ customs, or tasting the local wines and foods, Alba County will surprise you with its charm and diversity. Plan your trip, pack your bags, and be ready to experience the true Transylvanian spirit!



    Aiud
    Baia de Arieș