Harghita Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Harghita with our comprehensive guide featuring culturally important attractions, natural wonders, hiking trails, delicious food, and local customs.


Introduction to Harghita

Nestled in the picturesque Szeklerland, in the heart of Transylvania, Harghita is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of culture, history, and nature. Famous for its pristine forests, majestic mountains, and colorful traditions, this charming region has become a popular destination for travelers who seek authentic experiences off the beaten track.

With its rich heritage and scenic beauty, Harghita is a place that will enchant you with its timeless charm and incredible diversity. From medieval castles and traditional villages to breathtaking landscapes and adrenaline-pumping activities, Harghita has something for everyone.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you on a journey to explore the best that Harghita has to offer. Get ready to discover the unique flavors, sights, and sounds of one of Romania’s most underrated regions!

List of Places to Visit in Harghita

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Corund pottery workshops – Learn about the traditional craft of pottery in this village famous for its unique style of ceramics.
  • Saint Anna Lake – Visit the only crater lake in Romania that’s also the most famous natural reserve in Harghita and enjoy scenic views of its clear waters.
  • Balu Park in Miercurea Ciuc – Discover the history of the region in this open-air museum that features replicas of traditional Szekler houses and showcases the lifestyle of the area’s inhabitants.
  • St. Elizabeth Roman-Catholic Church in Joseni – Admire the beautiful frescoes and stuccoes of this historic church that dates back to the 13th century.

Natural Attractions of Harghita: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Harghita Mountains – Explore the breathtaking landscapes and endless hiking trails of the Harghita Mountains that offer extraordinary views of the valleys, hills, and forests of the region.
  • Olt Gorge – Venture into the stunning Olt Gorge, which cuts through the Eastern Carpathians and offers an unforgettable experience of sheer cliffs and roaring rapids.
  • Apuseni Mountains – Discover the beauty of the Apuseni Mountains, which are part of the Western Carpathians and offer unique adventures such as caving, climbing, and nature walks.
  • Mohos peat bog – Explore the diversity of the local flora and fauna in the unique ecosystem of the Mohos peat bog, which is home to rare species of plants and wetland animals.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Harghita

  • Harghita Mountains – Discover the breathtaking landscapes and endless hiking trails of the Harghita Mountains, which offer a unique experience of the natural wonders of the region.
  • Ciumatu – Go on a thrilling mountain biking adventure in one of the most challenging terrains of the Harghita Mountains, which features steep slopes and rocky paths.
  • Harghita circuit – Embark on a circular route that takes you around the entire Harghita Mountains, offering an incredible panorama of the region’s landscape.
  • Transylvanian Alps – Enjoy scenic hikes and picturesque views of the Transylvanian Alps, which stretch across Romania, Hungary, and Ukraine.

Best Things to Do in Harghita: Activities and Tours

  • Horse riding – Explore the beautiful countryside of Harghita on horseback and experience the authentic lifestyle of the region’s shepherds and farmers.
  • Skiing – Hit the slopes of the Harghita Mountains and enjoy some of the best skiing opportunities in Eastern Europe.
  • Rafting – Brave the rapids of the Olt River and experience the thrill of white-water rafting in a beautiful natural setting.
  • Wine tasting – Indulge in the rich flavors of local wines and discover the unique taste of Harghita’s grape varieties.

Week-Long Itinerary for Harghita

Day Activity
1 Explore the historic town of Miercurea Ciuc and visit the Balu Park museum.
2 Hike in the Harghita Mountains and visit the Saint Anna Lake.
3 Discover the unique pottery of Corund and sample some local cheeses.
4 Take a horseback ride through the rolling hills and valleys of the region.
5 Raft down the Olt River and enjoy a picnic lunch by the water.
6 Spend a day skiing or snowboarding in the Harghita Mountains.
7 Relax and indulge in a spa or wine-tasting session at a local vineyard.

Food and Drink Scene of Harghita

Must-Try Dishes

  • Papanasi – A traditional dessert made of fried dough and served with sour cream and jam.
  • Tochitura – A hearty pork stew cooked with onions, garlic, and paprika sauce.
  • Kurtos kalacs – A sweet pastry made of dough that’s wrapped around a spit, baked, and coated with cinnamon and sugar.
  • Ciorba – A sour soup that’s a staple of Romanian cuisine, made with meat, vegetables, and sour cream.

Local Beverages

  • Tuica – A strong fruit brandy made from plums, apples, or pears.
  • Palinka – A similar brandy to Tuica but often made with apricots and cherries, giving it a distinct taste.
  • Romanian wine – Harghita is known for its high-quality wines, such as Feteasca Neagra, a red wine grape of Romanian origin known for its aromatic notes.

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

  • Kossuth Lajos Guesthouse – A cozy and affordable option that offers clean and comfortable rooms in the heart of Miercurea Ciuc.
  • Muskátli Vendégház – A charming guesthouse in the heart of the Szeklerland that offers traditional decoration and excellent service.
  • Negra Pension – A comfortable and modern hotel located in a beautiful natural setting with stunning views of the Harghita Mountains.

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

  • Hand-painted Easter eggs – Harghita is famous for its beautiful hand-painted Easter eggs that make for a unique and memorable souvenir.
  • Traditional textiles – Admire the unique patterns and colors of the traditional textile art of the Szeklerland and buy a scarf, blanket, or tablecloth.
  • Local cheeses – Sample the delicious local cheeses made from sheep, cow, and goat milk that are a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Local Culture and Customs of Harghita

Harghita is a region with a rich and diverse cultural heritage that’s shaped by its history, folklore, and traditions. The Szeklers, who are the indigenous people of the region, have a distinct identity that’s reflected in their customs and language.

Some of the most important events and traditions of Harghita include:

  • The Szekler flag – A symbol of pride and identity for the Szeklers, the flag is red, white, and black, and bears a sun with 12 rays and the seven hills of Szeklerland.
  • The Szekler gates – A unique feature of the traditional houses in the region, the gates are intricately carved with decorative motifs and symbols of the family’s heritage.
  • Magyar sunda (big cheese) – A traditional celebration held every year in the autumn after the harvest, where local farmers gather to make cheese and celebrate the end of the season.

Best Time to Visit Harghita

The best time to visit Harghita depends on your preferences and priorities. The summer months from June to September are ideal for outdoor activities and hiking, as the weather is warm and sunny. The winter months from December to February offer excellent skiing opportunities and scenic views of snow-capped mountains.

Spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November) are also good times to visit, as they offer fewer crowds and lower prices. Keep in mind that the weather can be unpredictable in these seasons, so be prepared for rainy and cloudy days.

Do’s and Don’ts of Harghita

Do:

  • Respect the traditional customs and values of the Szekler people and try to learn some basic phrases in Hungarian.
  • Hire a local guide or tour operator to get a better insight into the history and culture of the region.
  • Follow the local customs and dress modestly when visiting churches and other religious sites.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment when hiking or camping.
  • Don’t take pictures of people without their permission, especially at traditional events and celebrations.
  • Don’t make fun of or underestimate the unique traditions and customs of the Szeklerland.

Safety and Health

Safety in Harghita

Harghita is a safe region with low crime rates and a friendly and welcoming local population. However, like any rural area, it’s important to take some precautions when exploring the wilderness or traveling on less-traveled roads. Always carry a map, a charged mobile phone, and enough water and food, and be prepared for sudden weather changes and wildlife encounters.

Health in Harghita

Medical facilities in Harghita are generally adequate, but may not meet the standards of Western countries. It’s wise to have comprehensive travel medical insurance that includes emergency evacuation in case of a serious illness or injury.

Getting to Harghita: Transportation Options and Logistics

Harghita is well-connected to major cities in Romania and Europe by road, rail, and air. Here are the most common ways to get to Harghita:

Airports Near Harghita

  • Targu Mures International Airport (TGM) – Located 105 km from Harghita, Targu Mures Airport offers domestic and European flights.
  • Cluj-Napoca International Airport (CLJ) – Located 212 km from Harghita, Cluj Airport offers domestic and international flights.
  • Bucharest Henri Coanda International Airport (OTP) – Located 300 km from Harghita, Bucharest Airport offers domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Harghita

  • Miercurea Ciuc Bus Station – The main bus terminal in Harghita offers regular services to major cities in Romania, as well as international destinations.
  • Pitesti Bus Station – Located 325 km from Harghita, Pitesti Bus Station offers regular services to major cities in Romania, as well as Bulgaria and Serbia.

Other Options

  • Train – Harghita is connected to major cities in Romania and Hungary by rail. The main railway station is in Miercurea Ciuc.
  • Car rental – Renting a car is a convenient way to explore Harghita at your own pace and discover its hidden gems.

How to Get Around in Harghita

Public transport in Harghita is limited, so it’s best to rent a car or hire a taxi to get around. Biking is also a popular option for exploring the countryside and the mountains.

Where to Go Next from Harghita: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Brasov – Discover the medieval charm of Brasov, one of Romania’s most beautiful cities, located just a couple of hours away from Harghita.
  • Sighisoara – Visit the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler and a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe.
  • Targu Mures – Explore the cultural diversity of Targu Mures, a charming city that blends Romanian, Hungarian, and Saxon traditions and architecture.

Conclusion

Harghita is a destination that’s still relatively unknown to the mainstream tourist crowds, but its unique blend of history, culture, and nature is sure to enchant anyone who’s willing to venture off the beaten track. With its pristine forests, majestic mountains, and colorful traditions, Harghita offers an authentic experience that’s hard to find elsewhere. Plan your trip to Harghita and discover the hidden gems of Transylvania!