Welcome to Cluj Napoca!
We have spent a few days in this vibrant historic city located in the heart of Transylvania in February 2023.
What is Cluj-Napoca like?
Cluj-Napoca is a lively city with historic center situated in Transylvania, Romania.
Romans, Saxons, Austrian-Hungarians, Communists, this city has seen a lot.
This becomes apparent as you walk the streets of Cluj, and spot Renaissance, Gothic and classic communist style buildings . Some of them are scrubbed up to glory, others have not withstood the ravages of time and look slightly derelict. To me, this only adds character to this charming city.
What can you discover in Cluj?
Apart from historic buildings, there's an abundance of street art waiting to be discovered; you'll find stunning murals, paste-ups, graffiti and sticker art at any given point you look around you.
I was also intrigued by the old, huge, colourful doors in between buildings. There are mostly closed and whatever is behind them is cut off from the stranger's eye, but every so often a door has been left open revealing a charming courtyard.
Cluj has a pleasant cafe and bar culture, you feel invited to linger in one of the many venues which often have cosy terraces.
How can you get arround?
I would recommend discovering Cluj on foot. Most landmarks are walking distance and it gives you an opportunity to discover the narrow cobbled back streets.
If you prefer less walking, Cluj does have a decent public transport network.
Like in most major European cities, there is also a growth in green transport, new cycling lanes and rental E-Bikes and Scooters. On this occasion, I did not use any but "lime" Scooters were widely available. https://www.li.me/en-ro/
Can you recommend any restaurants or bars?
You can eat and drink well, and to very reasonable prices. You can indulge in hearty dishes like sarmale (cabbage rolls), mici (grilled minced meat rolls), and palinca (a strong fruit brandy). Don't forget to try the local cheeses, pastries, and wines as well.
Check out Potaissa and Piezisa street where you'll find plenty of restaurants, bars, cafes and inviting terraces. Many have interesting and artsy interiors, such as Joben Experience Bar which is full of stunningly designed objects.Joben Experience Bar
Cafe chains such as Meron Café Meron and Panemar bakeries Panemar were always a welcome sight for a coffee and a pastry. I had dinner at Zama Restaurant, which serves traditional Romanian dishes with a modern twist. Zama Bistro
Was there a memorable moment?
It was quite a sight when hundreds, possibly thousands of Carrion crows descended on the Cluj in the evenings, just as sunset, loudly shrieking and crawking. Suddenly, this whirlwind of flying shadows fell over the city. They settled on rooftops and turrets and waited for night to fall. This spectacle adds to the character of this Transylvanian city, a bit eerie but fascinating.
I always have the feeling Romania doesn't get enough credit as a tourist spot and I know you have personal connections. What would you recommend for people to do for their first time visit in that beautiful country?
In general, I am more a nature than a city person. For that reason, I am always awestricken by Transylvania's picturesque landscapes. You have the Carpathian Mountains, lush forests, and rolling hills. Whether you enjoy hiking, exploring nature reserves, or simply taking in the breathtaking views, Transylvania offers plenty of opportunities to connect with the outdoors. For a first visit I would recommend a road trip, including the historic towns of Brașov, Sibiu snf Sighișoara. On the way you can visit Bran castle, better know as Dracula castle, and hike in the carpathian mountains. As some people may still associate Romanian with vampires and werewolves I want to make emphasize that Romanians are generally warm, and welcoming people and happy to help.