Cluj County Travel Guide

Explore the best places to visit and things to do in Cluj County, Romania. Find the top attractions, hiking routes, local culture, food, and more.


Introduction to Cluj County

Cluj County in Transylvania, Romania, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by travelers seeking cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. The county’s main city, Cluj-Napoca, has a long history and is home to a number of museums and historical sites. Cluj County is also known for its natural beauty, with stunning scenery and outdoor recreation opportunities. Whether you’re interested in exploring the local culture, hiking in the mountains, or simply enjoying the local food and drink, Cluj County has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Cluj County

Here are some of the top places to visit in Cluj County:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The National Museum of Transylvanian History
  • The Ethnographic Museum of Transylvania
  • The Banffy Palace
  • The Cetatuia Hill
  • The Art Museum
  • The St. Michael’s Church

Natural Attractions of Cluj County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Turda Gorges Natural Reserve
  • The Apuseni Natural Park
  • The Cetatuia Hill
  • The Cheile Turzii Natural Reserve
  • The Piatra Craiului Mountains
  • Belis-Fantanele Lake

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cluj County

Cluj County is a great destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The area has a number of trails that offer stunning views of the local scenery, as well as opportunities to explore the local wildlife. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Cluj County:

  • Cetatuia Hill Trail
  • Turda Gorges Trail
  • Cheile Turzii Trail
  • Apuseni Mountains Trail
  • Piatra Craiului Mountains Trail

Best Things to Do in Cluj County: Activities and Tours

Aside from hiking and exploring the local culture, here are some of the other top things to do in Cluj County:

  • Take a hot air balloon tour over the county
  • Visit the salt mines of Turda
  • Attend a traditional Romanian dance or music performance
  • Horseback riding across the countryside
  • Paragliding over the Apuseni Mountains

Week-Long Itinerary for Cluj County

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for travelers visiting Cluj County:

Day Activities
Day 1 Explore Cluj-Napoca, including the National Museum of Transylvanian History and St. Michael’s Church
Day 2 Hike the Cetatuia Hill Trail, followed by a visit to the Ethnographic Museum of Transylvania
Day 3 Take a hot air balloon tour over Cluj County, then spend an afternoon exploring the Cheile Turzii Natural Reserve
Day 4 Visit the salt mines of Turda, followed by a scenic drive through the Apuseni Mountains
Day 5 Explore the Piatra Craiului Mountains on horseback, followed by a visit to the Art Museum in Cluj-Napoca
Day 6 Paragliding over the Apuseni Mountains, then spend an evening attending a traditional Romanian dance performance
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the local food and drink scene, including must-try dishes and local beverages

Food and Drink Scene of Cluj County

Cluj County is known for its delicious local cuisine, which includes a variety of meats, cheeses, and wines. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sarmale: cabbage rolls filled with meat and rice
  • Mici: grilled meatballs made with pork and beef
  • Papanași: sweet cheese donuts served with sour cream and jam
  • Varza a la Cluj: sour cabbage soup with pork ribs

Local Beverages

  • Tuica: a strong plum brandy
  • Bargau: a red wine from the nearby Bargau Hills
  • Ciuc: a local beer brand
  • Miezul Ursului: a sweet liqueur made from honey and spices

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

Cluj County has a variety of accommodation options to fit every traveler’s budget. Here are some of the top places to stay in the area:

  • Hotel Transylvania: a luxury hotel in the heart of Cluj-Napoca
  • Coziness Hostel: a budget-friendly hostel in the city center
  • Casa Muresan: a charming guesthouse in the countryside
  • Golden Tulip Ana Dome: a modern hotel with great views of the city

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

Don’t leave Cluj County without picking up some of these local souvenirs and products:

  • Hand-woven traditional textiles
  • Pottery made by local artisans
  • Local cheeses, meats, and wines
  • Hand-crafted jewelry

Local Culture and Customs of Cluj County

Cluj County has a rich cultural heritage, with many traditions that have been passed down through generations. Some important customs in the area include:

  • Celebrating Orthodox Christian holidays, such as Easter and Christmas
  • Traditional Romanian folk dancing and music
  • Enjoying a meal with family and friends
  • Taking pride in local craftsmanship and heritage

Best Time to Visit Cluj County

The best time to visit Cluj County is during the summer months, from June to August. This is when the weather is warm and sunny, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. The autumn months are also a good time to visit, as the leaves change color and the scenery is stunning. However, bear in mind that the winter months can be quite cold and snowy, so plan accordingly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cluj County

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Cluj County:

Do:

  • Learn some basic Romanian phrases
  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Try the local food and drink
  • Take time to appreciate the local nature and scenery

Don’t:

  • Ignore local customs or cultural sensitivity
  • Be loud or disrespectful in public places
  • Disregard safety precautions when participating in outdoor activities
  • Be too quick to judge or criticize the local culture or way of life

Safety and Health

Safety in Cluj County

Cluj County is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, it’s always wise to take precautions to avoid accidents or theft. Here are some tips to help you stay safe during your visit:

  • Avoid walking alone late at night, especially in unfamiliar areas
  • Keep valuables, such as cameras and wallets, out of sight
  • Be careful when participating in outdoor activities, such as hiking or paragliding
  • Follow road safety rules and regulations when driving or hiring a car

Health in Cluj County

Cluj County has good healthcare facilities and services. It’s always important to have travel insurance when traveling, in case of unexpected medical emergencies. When traveling to Cluj County, it’s also recommended to:

  • Update your vaccines before traveling
  • Stay hydrated and drink bottled or purified water
  • Bring necessary medications with you on your trip

Getting to Cluj County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are some options for getting to Cluj County:

Airports Near Cluj County

  • Avram Iancu Cluj International Airport
  • Sibiu International Airport
  • Targu Mures Transilvania International Airport

Bus Stations Near Cluj County

  • Cluj-Napoca Central Bus Station
  • Bistrita Bus Station
  • Zalau Bus Station

Other Options

  • Train: There are regular train services to Cluj-Napoca from major cities in Romania, as well as other European countries.
  • Car: There are car rental options available at the airport and in the city center.
  • Taxi: Taxis are readily available throughout the county.

How to Get Around in Cluj County

Public transportation is a convenient and affordable way to get around in Cluj County. There are regular bus services to many of the main attractions and destinations. Taxis and car rentals are also available in the area.

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

Cluj County is well-situated for exploring other attractions in Romania and nearby countries. Here are some nearby destinations to check out:

  • Brasov: a popular tourist destination in the Carpathian Mountains
  • Sibiu: a historic city with beautiful architecture
  • Budapest, Hungary: just a few hours away by train or car
  • Belgrade, Serbia: also easily accessible by train or car

Conclusion

Cluj County is a unique and diverse destination that offers something for everyone. From cultural experiences to outdoor adventures, visitors will find plenty to do and see in this beautiful region of Romania. Don’t miss your opportunity to explore the natural beauty, local history, and vibrant culture of Cluj County.

Varjúvár Varjúvár


    Cluj-Napoca
    Huedin
    Turda