At the beginning of August 2024, we visited Cluj-Napoca, the capital of Transylvania, full of history and extraordinary attractions. We snagged our flight tickets during the “Crazy Wednesday” promotion of the national carrier, which made the decision to travel much easier. Did the third-largest city in Romania surprise us positively? Is Cluj-Napoca friendly for children and does it offer attractions for the whole family? How to plan the stay so as not to get bored, find suitable accommodation, and ensure safety? We answer these and many other questions in this post, sharing our impressions and practical tips.
Cluj Napoca – a few interesting facts
Cluj-Napoca, also known as Kolozsvar, has ancient roots dating back to the Roman settlement Napoca from the 2nd century AD. After the fall of Rome, the city was under the rule of the Goths and Huns, which left their mark on its history. In the 13th century, it gained city rights, accelerating its development. In the Middle Ages, it became an important trading hub under Hungarian rule. Already in the 16th century, Cluj-Napoca was a center of Reformation and Renaissance in Transylvania, attracting thinkers and artists. In the 18th century, the city became part of the Habsburg Monarchy, and after World War I, in 1918, it joined Romania. During World War II, the city was briefly under Hungarian control. After the war, Cluj-Napoca returned to Romania, becoming a dynamically developing city full of culture and history.
Cluj Napoca – our first impressions
Cluj-Napoca welcomed us with August sunshine and warm weather, perfect for sightseeing. Our attention was drawn to beautifully preserved townhouses in the center and extremely clean streets that encouraged walks. A surprise was the restaurant prices, which sometimes exceeded those on Warsaw’s Old Town.
However, this was the only aspect we didn’t like. What captivates is the friendly people spending time in a well-kept, lively center. The city feels very safe, confirmed by evening walks along illuminated alleys. We saw families relaxing in restaurant gardens and bars, which created a unique atmosphere. Is such harmony and peace still possible on the streets of Western Europe? Probably not, but in Eastern Europe, in Cluj-Napoca, it is!
Cluj-Napoca – how to get from the airport to the city center?
Avram Iancu Airport is located northeast of the city center, making it easily accessible for travelers. It is well connected to the city thanks to a developed network of buses and trolleybuses. You can reach Cluj-Napoca’s center by bus number 5 or 8, which is a quick and convenient solution. The one-way ticket costs only about 3 RON, or roughly 2.4 PLN, making it very economical. The journey takes about 30 minutes, allowing for efficient sightseeing. Thanks to this, public transportation in Cluj-Napoca combines convenience, affordability, and efficiency, making it easy to explore the city.
Cluj Napoca – where to stay in the capital of Transylvania?
If you’re planning a city break in Cluj, it’s definitely worth staying in the city center. We decided to rent an apartment just 200 meters from Piata Unirii, and we must admit it was a perfect choice! This exceptional place has a 9.9 rating on Booking, confirming its excellent standard. Comfort, location, and cozy atmosphere made our stay truly unforgettable. By clicking HERE, you can book your stay in this place yourself.
Cluj-Napoca – must-see places
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Piata Unirii with St. Michael’s Church
Piata Unirii with St. Michael’s Church in Cluj-Napoca is the heart of the city, full of history and unique charm. What to see in Cluj Napoca, looking for the most important monuments? Definitely this impressive Gothic church, whose tower dominates the square. Additionally, surrounding the church are charming townhouses showcasing diverse architecture, and the square buzzes with life all year round. Strolling around, you can admire the statue of King Matthias Corvinus, which connects the past with the modern rhythm of the city. In the vicinity, you’ll find numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops, perfect for a relaxing break after sightseeing. This place is where history, culture, and everyday life harmoniously intertwine, creating an unforgettable atmosphere.
On the edge of the square, a decorative fountain was built, providing refreshment and relief on hot days.
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House of Matthias Corvinus
The House of Matthias Corvinus in Cluj-Napoca is a historic building of great significance, worth seeing during your visit to the city. It is the birthplace of one of Hungary’s greatest kings. Additionally, the building combines Gothic architectural elements with an intriguing history that attracts tourists from around the world. Strolling nearby, you will discover charming alleys and other monuments. It’s an ideal place to feel the spirit of old Transylvania and delve into local cultural heritage. Thanks to its central location, the house is easily accessible and makes a great starting point for further exploration.
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Charming cafes in the historic city center
As we mentioned earlier, walking along the cobbled streets of Cluj’s center, we pass hundreds of cafes, bars, traditional bakeries, and restaurants. In front of them are outdoor gardens barely accommodating people. Entire families spend their free time here until late evening, when artificial lighting emphasizes the charm of this place. It’s worth stopping here, even for a little while.
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Citadel
The Citadel in Cluj-Napoca, picturesque on a hill, is an ideal place for a walk with beautiful views. It combines history, nature, and tranquility. Worth seeing are the preserved walls, bastions, and panoramic city views. Along the way, you’ll find numerous paths leading to romantic viewpoints. Nearby, you’ll find cozy cafes perfect for a moment of relaxation. Walking here, you’ll feel the spirit of old Transylvania still alive in the heart of the city.
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Central Park
Central Park in Cluj-Napoca is a place worth visiting when exploring the city. Looking for peace in the heart of Cluj? This park, full of greenery, romantic alleys, and charming corners, is perfect. There is a pond with paddle boats and the famous Casino-Club, which create a unique atmosphere. The park offers space for relaxation, walks, and outdoor activities. In winter, it transforms into a magical scenery, ideal for family trips. While strolling here, you can admire historic fountains and stylish bridges that add charm. It’s a place where tradition meets modernity, attracting both locals and tourists.
Every year, Cluj-Napoca hosts one of the most spectacular music events in Europe, attracting thousands of electronic music enthusiasts and festival culture lovers – the Untold Festival. During our stay in this picturesque city, we had the opportunity to observe the intense preparations for this event. The air was filled with a scent of excitement and anticipation, and we were glad to arrive in Cluj a week before this event :).
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Babes-Bolyai University
Babes-Bolyai University in Cluj-Napoca is a unique place that combines history, culture, and modernity. What to see in Cluj-Napoca if you’re a lover of education and architecture? Certainly the impressive university buildings, which draw attention with their diverse styles. Additionally, the campus features beautiful gardens, perfect for relaxing amidst greenery. As one of the oldest universities in Central and Eastern Europe, it plays a key role in the city’s life. Walking nearby, you’ll discover numerous monuments, cafes, and student meeting spots that buzz with activity. Visiting the university allows you to feel the spirit of Cluj-Napoca, where the past meets the future.
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Firefighters’ Tower
The Firefighters’ Tower in Cluj-Napoca is a fascinating monument that combines history, culture, and stunning views. What to see in Cluj-Napoca if you’re interested in architecture? Certainly this tower, which once served as an observation and alarm point. It also offers a unique panoramic view of the city, worth admiring at sunset. Surrounded by charming streets, the tower invites you for walks and discovering nearby monuments. Inside, exhibitions and cultural events are often organized, giving the place a special character. It’s a perfect blend of past and present, attracting both tourists and locals.
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Ascension Cathedral
The Ascension Cathedral in Cluj-Napoca is one of the most important architectural monuments of sacred architecture in Romania. Built in Neo-Byzantine style, it impresses with its monumental form and richly decorated interior. Pay attention to beautiful mosaics and frescoes depicting biblical scenes and saints. The cathedral, which is the seat of the Romanian Greek Catholic Diocese, is not only a place of worship but also a cultural and social center of the region. In the surroundings of the church, there’s a picturesque park, ideal for a relaxing moment after sightseeing. This place will surely impress every lover of history and architecture!
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Alexandru Borza Botanical Garden
