Aiud Travel Guide

Explore the beautiful city of Aiud in Transylvania, Romania with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the top tourist attractions, best accommodations, local food and drinks, safety tips, and more.


Introduction to Aiud

Located in the heart of Transylvania, Aiud is a charming medieval city that is known for its rich cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and warm hospitality. Nestled on the banks of the Mures River, Aiud offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities, making it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the city of Aiud, where you’ll discover the top tourist attractions, best accommodations, local food and drinks, hiking/biking routes, cultural customs, safety tips, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Aiud

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Aiud Citadel – Also known as Aiud Fortress, this historical landmark dates back to the 14th century and played a significant role in the city’s history. It offers stunning views of the city and the Mures River.
  2. Aiud Museum – This museum is housed in a Baroque-style building that was once the residence of Baron Bethlen. It features a diverse collection of exhibits that showcase the city’s history, culture, and traditions.
  3. St. John the Baptist Church – This Gothic-style church was built in the 14th century and is known for its beautiful medieval architecture.

Natural Attractions of Aiud: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Cheile Aiudului Natural Reserve – This nature reserve is located just a few kilometers from Aiud and is known for its stunning natural beauty. The reserve boasts breathtaking views of the Apuseni Mountains, hiking trails, and waterfalls.
  2. Mures River Promenade – Take a walk along the serene Mures River and admire the picturesque views of the city.
  3. Rimetea Village – This traditional village is located just a short drive from Aiud and offers stunning views of the Transylvanian countryside.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Aiud

Aiud is the perfect destination for adventure lovers. Here are some popular hiking/biking routes in and around Aiud:

  1. Via Maria Theresia – This picturesque hiking route follows the footsteps of Maria Theresia, who traveled this trail during her reign in the 18th century.
  2. Cheile Aiudului Gorges – This challenging hiking trail offers breathtaking views of the Apuseni Mountains and is perfect for experienced hikers.
  3. Aiud - Mihalt - Rimetea - Piatra Secuiului – This cycling route covers a distance of around 40 km and takes you through some of the most scenic landscapes in Transylvania.

Best Things to Do in Aiud: Activities and Tours

  1. Take a walking tour of the Old Town and discover the city’s unique architecture, charming streets, and hidden gems.
  2. Visit the Aiud Market and taste the delicious local fruits, vegetables, and cheeses.
  3. Attend the Aiud Citadel Festival, which takes place every summer and features live music, traditional food, and a medieval fair.

Week-Long Itinerary for Aiud

Here’s a sample week-long itinerary for Aiud:

  1. Day 1: Arrive in Aiud and check into your hotel.
  2. Day 2: Take a walking tour of the Old Town and visit the Aiud Museum.
  3. Day 3: Explore the Cheile Aiudului Natural Reserve.
  4. Day 4: Take a cycling tour to Rimetea Village and Piatra Secuiului.
  5. Day 5: Visit the St. John the Baptist Church and the Aiud Citadel.
  6. Day 6: Take a day trip to Cluj-Napoca and explore the city’s museums, parks, and cafes.
  7. Day 7: Relax in Aiud and enjoy the local food and drinks.

Food and Drink Scene of Aiud

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Paprikash – A traditional Hungarian dish that consists of chicken or pork stewed in a rich paprika sauce and served with homemade dumplings.
  2. Sarmale – A popular Romanian dish made from ground pork, rice, and Mediterranean spices wrapped in pickled cabbage leaves and slow-cooked in a tomato-based sauce.
  3. Kurtoskalacs – A sweet pastry that is made by wrapping dough around a spit and then baking it over an open flame. It’s often served with a variety of toppings, such as cinnamon sugar, sprinkles, or nuts.

Local Beverages

  1. Palinka – A fruity brandy that is made from various fruits, such as plums, apples, and cherries.
  2. Tuica – A strong alcoholic drink that is made from fermented plums.
  3. Romanian Wine – Romania is known for its excellent wines, such as Feteasca Neagră and Cabernet Sauvignon.

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

  1. Pensiunea Iancu – This cozy guesthouse is located in the heart of the city and offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant that serves traditional Romanian cuisine.
  2. Hotel Lido – This modern hotel is located near the Mures River and offers spacious rooms, a sauna, and a gym.
  3. Hostel Chez Marie – This budget-friendly hostel is ideal for backpackers and offers dormitory-style rooms and a communal kitchen.

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

  1. Traditional Handicrafts – Aiud is known for its traditional handicrafts, such as pottery, woodcarvings, and hand-woven rugs.
  2. Local Honey – Romania has some of the best honey in the world, and Aiud is no exception. Try the honey from the nearby Apuseni Mountains.
  3. Palinka – Don’t forget to buy a bottle of the local fruit brandy, Palinka, to bring home as a souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Aiud

The people of Aiud are known for their warm hospitality and love for their cultural heritage. Here are some local customs and traditions to keep in mind:

  1. Greetings – When you meet someone in Aiud, it’s customary to greet them with a handshake and maintain eye contact.
  2. Dress Code – When visiting a church or a museum, it’s important to dress modestly and cover your arms and legs.
  3. Language – While most people in Aiud speak Romanian, you may also hear Hungarian and German being spoken, especially in the ethnic minority communities.

Best Time to Visit Aiud

The best time to visit Aiud is during the spring and summer months (April to September) when the weather is mild, and the city is alive with festivals and events. However, if you prefer fewer crowds, then consider visiting Aiud during the off-season (October to March).

Do’s and Don’ts of Aiud

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind while visiting Aiud:

Do:

  1. Try the local food and drinks.
  2. Learn some basic Romanian phrases.
  3. Respect the local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  1. Don’t disrespect the local culture or religion.
  2. Don’t litter in public places.
  3. Don’t forget to carry cash, as some places may not accept credit cards.

Safety and Health

Safety in Aiud

Aiud is generally a safe city to travel to. However, it’s important to take some basic safety precautions, such as:

  1. Keep your valuables in a safe place.
  2. Beware of pickpockets in crowded areas.
  3. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas.

Health in Aiud

Aiud has a good healthcare system, and you can find pharmacies and medical clinics in the city. However, it’s recommended that you have travel insurance and carry any necessary medications with you.

Getting to Aiud: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Aiud

The closest airports to Aiud are:

  1. Cluj-Napoca International Airport (86 km)
  2. Sibiu International Airport (147 km)

Bus Stations Near Aiud

Aiud has a well-connected bus station that offers regular services to nearby cities and towns.

Other Options

You can also travel to Aiud by train, car, or taxi.

How to Get Around in Aiud

The best way to get around Aiud is on foot, as the city is compact and easy to navigate. Alternatively, you can hire a bicycle or use public transportation, which includes buses and taxis.

Where to Go Next from Aiud: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Cluj-Napoca – This vibrant city is just a short drive from Aiud and features a range of museums, parks, and historic landmarks.
  2. Alba Iulia – This beautiful city is known for its well-preserved citadel, which dates back to the 18th century.
  3. Sibiu – This charming medieval city is located in the heart of Transylvania and is known for its beautiful architecture, museums, and cultural events.

Conclusion

Aiud is a hidden gem in Transylvania that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or a food lover, there’s something for everyone in this charming medieval city. So pack your bags and discover the wonders of Aiud today!