Deva Travel Guide

Plan your perfect visit to Deva, Romania with our comprehensive Deva travel guide. Explore the must-see attractions, best things to do, food scene, local culture, safety tips, and transportation options.


Are you looking for a unique travel experience that blends history, nature, and adventure? Look no further than Deva, a charming city nestled in the heart of Transylvania, Romania. Whether it’s exploring ancient castles, hiking through breathtaking nature reserves, or indulging in local cuisine, Deva has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we’ll take you through the best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, local customs, and more. Let’s get started with our introduction to Deva.

Introduction to Deva

Deva is the capital city of Hunedoara County and is situated in the western part of Transylvania. It is a city that has seen the rise and fall of many empires, resulting in significant cultural, historical, and architectural legacies that can still be seen today. The city lies on the picturesque river Mures and is surrounded by lush green hills and forests. Deva offers a unique combination of nature, culture, and adventure, making it a perfect destination for travelers who want to explore the hidden gems of Romania.

List of Places to Visit in Deva

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Deva Fortress: The most popular attraction in Deva, the fortress is perched atop a hill overlooking the city. It was built in the 13th century by King Bela IV and boasts an impressive collection of medieval armor, weapons, and artworks.
  • The Magna Curia Palace: This is a historical monument built in the 18th century and is one of the best-preserved Baroque-style buildings in Romania. It served as the headquarters for the local judiciary, and today, it’s a popular venue for exhibitions, cultural events, and concerts.
  • The Roman Catholic Church: Located in the city center, the church dates back to the 18th century and is known for its stunning Baroque architecture and beautiful frescoes.
  • The Hunedoara Castle: A short drive from Deva, this medieval castle dates back to the 14th century. It boasts an impressive collection of Gothic and Renaissance art, armors, weapons, and tapestries, making it one of Romania’s most visited castles.

Natural Attractions of Deva: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Hilltop Adventure Park: This park is located adjacent to the Deva fortress and offers an array of thrilling outdoor activities like zip-lining, bungee jumping, and rappelling.
  • Cetatea Hill Nature Reserve: This reserve is located above the fortress, and it’s an ideal place for a leisurely hike. The reserve is home to some of the most stunning flora and fauna in Romania, and you’ll have breathtaking views of the city and hills around it.
  • National Park Retezat: A 30-minute drive from Deva, this is one of the most scenic national parks in Romania. Its rugged terrain offers a variety of activities like hiking, rock climbing, skiing, and bird watching.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Deva

  • Cetatea Hill Nature Reserve: Walk along the nature reserve trails for a beautiful and relaxing hiking experience.
  • National Park Retezat: Offers challenging trails for hardened hiking enthusiasts with much to explore.
  • EuroVelo 13- Iron Curtain Trail: A designated bike route that tracks the Cold War history.

Best Things to Do in Deva: Activities and Tours

  • Take a walking tour of Deva’s historical center and immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and culture.
  • Explore the Deva Fortress, which offers an unbeatable view of the city from the top.
  • Visit the Magna Curia Palace, which hosts many cultural events throughout the year.
  • Participate in outdoor adventure activities, like zip lining and bungee jumping at Hilltop Adventure Park.
  • Explore the Hunedoara Castle where history comes alive with its impressive collection of Gothic and Renaissance art, armors, weapons, and tapestries.

Week-Long Itinerary for Deva

Days Activities
Day 1-2 Explore the Deva Fortress, Hilltop Adventure Park, and local museums.
Day 3-4 Visit nearby Hunedoara Castle and Cetatea Hill Reserve for hiking, seeing the rich flora and fauna.
Day 5-6 Travel to the National Park Retezat. Hike, ski, and bird watch in the park, which remains a favorite among nature lovers.

Food and Drink Scene of Deva

Must-Try Dishes

  • Varza a la Cluj: A traditional Romanian dish made of cabbage rolls with pork and beef, often served with sour cream.
  • Papanasi: A sweet dish made of dumplings served with sour cream and fruit preserves.

Local Beverages

  • Tuica: A strong alcoholic beverage made from plums and other fruits.
  • Wine: Romania has various wine regions with numerous excellent local wines.

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

  • Deva Hotel: A comfortable and cozy hotel situated in the city center, perfect for tourists who want to explore the city’s landmarks.
  • Hanul Domnesc Guesthouse: Located in the heart of the city, it offers quality services and has an authentic Romanian atmosphere.
  • Hostel La Cetate: A budget-friendly hostel situated right next to the Deva Fortress, ideal for travelers looking for an affordable and cozy place to stay.

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

  • Hand-carved wooden toys and figurines
  • Traditional Romanian textiles such as embroidered tablecloths, and napkins.
  • Local honey, jams, and preserves.

Local Culture and Customs of Deva

Romania has a rich history and culture, and it’s important to be aware of local customs and etiquette. Romanians generally are hospitable and friendly, and showing up on time for an appointment or dinner party is crucial to maintaining that personal relationship. Ensure that while entering a church, conservative attire is advised, which also includes not entering church sites with hats on.

Best Time to Visit Deva

The best time to visit Deva is during the summer months from June to August, where the temperature ranges between 18-28°C. During these months, Nature Reserve Cetatea Hill is replete with wildflowers, and the weather encourages a fun time at Hilltop Adventure Park.

Do’s and Don’ts of Deva

Do:

  • Learn at least a few Romanian phrases. It’s always received warmly by locals.
  • Respect older people and their traditions.

Don’t:

  • Don’t smoke in prohibited areas.
  • Don’t litter.

Safety and Health

Safety in Deva

Deva is a safe city for tourists and has a low crime rate. However, it is still advisable for tourists to be vigilant, avoid unlit areas at night, and take essential safety measures.

Health in Deva

Romania has a universal healthcare system in place, but medical facilities can vary in quality from city to city. It’s always recommended to have travel insurance to cover any unexpected medical expenses.

Getting to Deva: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Deva

  • The closest airport is the International Airport of Sibiu, which is 120km away from Deva city center.

Bus Stations Near Deva

  • Deva Bus Station is the primary bus station located in the city center, with numerous bus lines servicing the city.

Other Options

  • Taxi services and car rentals are available throughout the city.

How to Get Around in Deva

Deva city center is compact, and most of the attractions are easily accessible on foot. Taxis and public transport are available in the city center and can take you to more remote areas, such as The Hunedoara Castle or The National Park Retezat.

Where to Go Next from Deva: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Densus Church: A 90 stories-old Orthodox Christian Church in Densus village, 23 kilometers from Deva.
  • The Sarmizegetusa Regia Fortress: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a significant remnant of the ancient Dacian civilization, located only 50km away from Deva city center.

Conclusion

Deva is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, adventure, and nature. The city boasts of an excellent selection of cultural, historical, and natural attractions, offering tourists a unique opportunity to explore Romania’s rich heritage. Our comprehensive tour guide will help you make the most of your trip to Deva by providing insider tips, best places to visit, local customs, safety and health tips, and more. So what are you waiting for? Book your tickets and head to Deva, your next memorable travel experience awaits!

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