Craiova

Craiova's history dates back to ancient times, but it truly flourished during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a period that left the city with a legacy of magnificent Belle Époque buildings. The city center is a testament to this golden age, featuring beautifully restored palaces and administrative buildings that now house museums, universities, and cultural institutions.

One of the city's most significant cultural claims to fame is its connection to Constantin Brâncuși, one of the most influential sculptors of the 20th century. Brâncuși studied in Craiova, and the local Art Museum proudly displays several of his early masterpieces, offering a rare glimpse into the evolution of his groundbreaking style.

Nature lovers will find a true sanctuary in Nicolae Romanescu Park. Spanning over 90 hectares, this romantic landscape park features a suspension bridge, a castle ruin, a lake, and a zoo. It is a masterpiece of landscape architecture and provides a perfect escape from the urban bustle, making Craiova a city that seamlessly blends culture, history, and nature.

Reasons to Visit

• Nicolae Romanescu Park: Explore one of the largest and most beautiful landscape parks in Eastern Europe.
• Craiova Art Museum: View the early, formative works of the legendary sculptor Constantin Brâncuși inside the opulent Jean Mihail Palace.
• Belle Époque Architecture: Wander the pedestrian-friendly old town to admire stunning 19th-century buildings and vibrant squares.
• Craiova Christmas Market: Experience one of Europe's top-rated festive markets, featuring incredible light displays and local crafts (December only).
• Authentic Oltenian Culture: Enjoy a less tourist-heavy destination where you can experience genuine Romanian hospitality and unique regional cuisine.

Things to Avoid

• Unlicensed Taxis: Avoid hailing cabs off the street that do not have clear company logos and visible meters. Use ride-sharing apps like Uber or Bolt instead.
• Ignoring Pedestrian Crossings: Always use designated crosswalks, as traffic can be fast-paced and jaywalking is fined.
• Expecting English Everywhere: While common among the youth, older generations and vendors in traditional markets may only speak Romanian. Have a translation app handy.
• Exchanging Money at the Airport: Airport exchange rates are typically poor. Use ATMs or exchange offices (case de schimb valutar) in the city center.

Local Transportation Tips

Craiova has a reliable and affordable public transportation system operated by RAT Craiova, consisting of buses and a tram line that connects the main commercial and residential areas. Tickets can be purchased from kiosks near major stops or via SMS/mobile apps. The historic city center is highly pedestrianized and best explored on foot. For longer distances or late-night travel, ride-sharing apps like Uber and Bolt are widely available, inexpensive, and safe.

Travel Etiquette

• Greetings: It is polite to say 'Bună ziua' (Good day) when entering small shops or cafes, and 'La revedere' (Goodbye) when leaving.
• Tipping: Tipping around 10% is customary in restaurants and cafes if the service was good. It is usually left in cash, even if paying by card.
• Visiting Homes: If invited to a local's home, it is customary to bring a small gift (like flowers, chocolates, or wine) and to remove your shoes upon entering unless told otherwise.
• Religious Sites: Dress modestly when visiting Orthodox churches; women may be expected to cover their heads, and men should remove their hats.

Recommended Age Group

Craiova offers a relaxed pace and diverse attractions that cater well to various age groups, though it is particularly appealing to adults and families.

• Babies (0-2 years): Neutral. The large parks are great for strolling, but navigating some older buildings and uneven pavements with a stroller can be challenging.
• Kids (3-12 years): Recommended. Children will love the expansive Romanescu Park, the small zoo, and the musical fountain in the city center.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended. The vibrant university atmosphere, affordable cafes, and highly Instagrammable architecture and parks will appeal to teenagers.
• Adults (20-64 years): Recommended. Adults will appreciate the rich history, the Brâncuși art collection, the affordable dining scene, and the relaxed urban exploration.
• Seniors (65+ years): Recommended. The city is relatively flat and walkable, with plenty of benches in parks and squares, making it a comfortable destination for senior travelers.

Accessibility Level: Medium

• The central pedestrian areas, including Mihai Viteazul Square and the Old Town, are generally flat and wheelchair accessible.
• Nicolae Romanescu Park has paved main paths that are accessible, though some secondary trails may be uneven.
• Modern shopping centers and newer hotels offer good accessibility features, including ramps and elevators.
• Some historical buildings and smaller restaurants may have steps at the entrance and lack elevator access.
• Public transportation accessibility is improving, with many newer buses equipped with low floors and ramps, but older trams may still pose challenges.

Did You Know?

Did you know that Craiova is affectionately known as the 'Capital of Leeks'? The Oltenia region has a long-standing agricultural tradition of growing leeks (praz), and the vegetable has become a humorous and beloved cultural symbol for the locals, featuring in many regional jokes and traditional recipes.

Cool Statistics

• 96 Hectares: The massive size of Nicolae Romanescu Park, making it the third-largest natural park in Europe.
• 1900: The year Édouard Redont's design for Romanescu Park won the gold medal at the Paris World Exhibition.
• 6: The number of early Constantin Brâncuși sculptures housed in the Craiova Art Museum, including 'The Kiss' (an early version).
• 1896: The year the impressive Craiova National Theatre was founded, remaining a cornerstone of Romanian performing arts.