Chip Tourist Guide

If you decided that I'm the right person for your visit to Cluj please contact me on email mobile phone.
Email/cipaprilturda@yahoo.de
phone 0040/732741400
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YOUR PROFESSIONAL TOUR GUIDE AND DRIVER IN Cluj


Pompeii Hotel Santa Caterina - PompeiiEach detail of this hospitable hotel in Pompeii reflects our enthusiasm for our work and the love we have for our area.

I'M HERE OFFERING YOU THE BEST TRANSPORTATION, TOUR GUIDE AND PERSONAL SERVICES IN Cluj.
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Professional Driver
Fluently Speaking English and Spanish
Best "City Tips" in locations prices and more.

If you have a business trip to Cluj I can be your personal driver to arrange all transportation needs during a day or evening, between your business meetings I can show you the best places to have some lunch and more...
If you are a tourist I can be your friendly guide to the best sightseeing of Bucharest, I can help you to buy Romanian souvenirs at reasonable prices and more...
So whatever the type and duration of your trip I can organize any guided tours to the best sightseeing inside town or outside of Cluj, help you to get souvenirs from Romania, show you good inexpensive restaurants, for example, where you can try Romanian cuisine, can be your shopping guide to the best commercial centers or any places where you can find everything you need.

FLEXIBLE SERVICES Home Services Vehicle Background Contact Recommendations Gallery Gifts advisor and procurement If you are interested to invest in Romanian real estate market I can advice about prices, opportunities and things to avoid. Also making connections with real estate brokers and agencies or search local press for lands and housing.Even you are a business man or a tourist you'll need to buy something traditional so I can advice you about what kind of gifts is representative for Romania, at the best prices.
And I can arrange your gifts and souvenirs up to your budget, as well as a nice photo album with you in Cluj.
Also I am happy to be your personal photographer with my digital camera to memorize all your events (sightseeing for example) during you trip to Romania. I can burn photos on CD and make photo slideshows CD or DVD.

Airport meeting, pick-up and delivery to your destination inside Cluj - 15 euro.
Per day driving and tour guide for entire day 8h - 130 euro/day.
Colaboration terms: If you need traveling around for many days this might be the right solution - negotiable.
CLUJ DRIVER AND YOUR PROFESSIONAL TOUR GUIDE AND DRIVER IN Cluj
Per week or longer If you need my services part of a day - 20 euro/h.
For outside the city 0.2 euro / km adding to hour price.


Curs Valutar BNR

The fierce individuality of the Maramures mountain valleys in the north-west of Transylvania is legendary. Their inhabitants are of Dacian descent and their independence as a State reached its peak under Decebalus in the first century AD, before the Roman conquest. Wave after wave of invasions followed.

A unique lifestyle

Nonetheless the villagers here continued to vividly assert the independence of their customs and their folklore. Today you can visit and admire their unique lifestyle. Few other parts of Europe have developed so distinctive a rural culture.

An inheritance of folklore

Agriculture has always been the lifeblood of existence in the mountains. Local traditions reflect this, as there are festivals in April, May, August and December.

The one in December is held at Sighetu Marmatiei, with carnival parades and revellers wearing animal masks.

Sighetu Marmatiei

Sighetu Marmatiei is a typical Maramures town, famous for its markets, peasant costumes and lively atmosphere.

The Museum of Maramures has many carnival masks among its exhibits. Herefrom you may easily drive to the mountain resort of Borsa and such villages as Bogdan-Voda and Rozavlea, renowned for their wooden architecture.

Creativity in wood and costume

Woodcarving skills are the dominant feature of Maramures crafts. Particularly characteristic of the villages are wooden churches, with tall steeples and shingled roofs, some dating back to the 14th century.


Highly developed too is the embroidery of traditional costumes. On Sunday afternoons both women and men often parade and dance as they have for centuries.

Women wear colourful headscarves and flowered skirts with black sheepskin jerkins; men wear black trousers and white jerkins, though costumes vary from village to village. The Easter festivals are a particularly good time to see them.

Touring the valleys

Baia Mare lies at the heart of this region. Its modern hotels make it the point of departure for many tours. A popular local expedition is to Surdesti, which has the tallest of the region's wooden churches.

Another is the one to Sapanta, famous for its "merry cemetery", where carved tombstones and humorous epitaphs are a remembrance of the dead.

Legends like that of Count Dracula or the real history of Romania are testimonies of such an exciting past. Such a heritage is to be found in the high-roofed wooden churches of Transylvania.

Admire the 16th century artistic treasures of the Bucovina monasteries, or listen spellbound to George Enescu's "Romanian Rhapsody" which brilliantly inspired from folklore themes.
Taormina Hotel Giardino dei Greci -TaorminaThe Hotel Giardino dei Greci in the Naxos gardens on the bay of Taormina welcomes you with an alluring mix of tradition and modern elegance.
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The most decisive influence on this country's development was that of ancient Rome.

Six Hundred Thousand Years of History

Signs of human life are to be found in the Carpathian mountains since around 600.000 BC.

Although there had been Greek colonies on the Black Sea coast since the 6th century BC, the first centralised kingdom was of a Thracian people called the Dacians.

Inspiring Cultural Diversity

Such a past was bound to create a great range of artistic and cultural achievements.

Broadly, three main strands are discernible and anyone travelling across Romania can see splendid examples of them all.

Country-style Crafts and Cuisine

Romania's traditional village architecture, crafts and cuisine represent a living culture of unique value.
Look for the finely carved doorways of Transylvanian houses, the beautiful wooden churches, the variety of regional costumes and the simplicity of country artefacts.



This Dacian civilisation reached its heyday under Decebalus, in the first century AD, but he was finally defeated by the Emperor Trajan's Roman legions in 106. Roman colonisation and inter-marriage followed and the resulting population became Christian.

In 271 the Legions withdrew and 1,000 years of sporadic invasion ensued, followed by several centuries of Turkish and Russian aggression. The Daco-Roman civilisation and Romania's Latin inheritance survived.

The Rise of the Principalities

"Romanians" were first mentioned in documents in the 1160s, soon after which Wallachia and Moldavia emerged as principalities.

A succession of noble leaders held of the Turks, namely Prince Mircea the Old, Prince Vlad Tepes (the Impaler) and Stephen the Great of Moldavia, who built close to 50 monasteries and churches and moulded Moldavian culture.

In the 16th century Michael the Brave united all these three provinces and chased away the Turks. In many respects the 15th and 16th centuries were a golden age of architecture and art.

Princely Patronage

The noble families of Romania were great builders and patrons. There are numerous medieval castles, some of which are like taken from fairytales, like Bran castle.

Others are fancifully French such as Corvin, while Renaissance and Baroque styles were adapted to a specifically Romanian pattern the late 17th century ruler of Wallachia, Constantin Brancoveanu.

Modern Art and Music

In the 19th and 20th centuries nationhood was matched by an outpouring of artistic talent.

The playwright Eugen Ionesco, the sculpturer Constantin Brancusi, and the composer George Enescu, are just three outstanding examples.

Their talent and that of their successors is appreciated throughout the country in concerts, operas, galleries and exibitions. Romania's cultural heritage is a living one both in fine art and folk art.

Transylvania is by far the most romantic and inspiring of Romania's provinces. Its very name brings to mind visions of mountain peaks rising up to the sky above wooded valleys and sparkling streams, visions of high-roofed wooden churches, legendary castles and a troubled history.

But there is much more to it: ski resorts and health spas, hiking trails and the Retezat National Park, fascinating medieval towns, art museums and good hotels.

In Transylvania new vistas and leisure activities appear wherever you go.

Brasov and Romania's Mountain Resorts

This medieval city, picturesquely situated nearby the Postavaru Mountain, is both fascinating in itself and is close to Transylvania's major mountain resort area, with first class hotels (see the page on the Mountains).

Look for its old Saxon architecture around the 14th century Black Church, the ruins of the citadel, and the 18th century Old Town Hall.

The Bran Castle and the Royal Resort of Sinaia

A trip to take from Brasov is to the castle of Bran, supposed to have been the home of Prince Vlad Tepes, who inspired Dracula's legend.

Also, don't miss the castle of Peles, fancifully built in 1883 at the foot of a mountain side for King Carol I, in Sinaia.

This resort was first made popular by the King and it is worth a stay either in summer for its glorious mountain scenery, hiking and riding, or in winter for skiing, not to mention health cures.

Sibiu

Sibiu, also Saxon in origin, is a very pretty town, with cobbled streets and pastel colored houses. The open air Museum of Folk Technology in woodland by a lake is a "must" to visit, just as the Brukenthal Art Museum.

The town is well placed for excursions to mountain villages, such as Sibiel, where there is a fascinating museum of icons.

Further away near Deva stands the Corvin Castle, rebuilt in the 15th century in Gothic style by Prince Iancu Corvin, who gave it a sumptuous Knights Hall and towers and buttresses that remind one of the Chateaux de la Loire.

Banat

This south-western corner of the country has a drier, more Mediterranean climate than most of Romania and is also slightly different from the cultural point of view.

Habsburg rule until 1918 gave it an Art Nouveau architecture, while almost 1,900 years earlier the Romans had established a spa at Baile Herculane that is still one of Romania's most fashionable ones.

Nearby Mount Domogled is a 60,000 ha protected area, while the Semenic Mountains have a few small ski resorts. Finally, the capital of Banat, Timisoara, is the city where the 1989 Revolution started.



Medieval Sighisoara

Originally a Roman town, Sighisoara is one of the greatest medieval cities left in the world.



Medieval Sighisoara

Originally a Roman town, Sighisoara is one of the greatest medieval cities left in the world.

Sighisoara, one of the great medieval cities of Europe

The city has a walled citadel on the hilltop, secret gateways and passages, a 14th century Clock Tower and the house where Prince Vlad Tepes lived.

Festivals and Folklore

Wherever you go in Transylvania, you will discover rural traditions that are a real part of everyday life. Shepherds produce large round cheese which you will see for sale by the roadside.



Medieval Sighisoara

Originally a Roman town, Sighisoara is one of the greatest medieval cities left in the world.

Sighisoara, one of the great medieval cities of Europe

The city has a walled citadel on the hilltop, secret gateways and passages, a 14th century Clock Tower and the house where Prince Vlad Tepes lived.

Festivals and Folklore

Wherever you go in Transylvania, you will discover rural traditions that are a real part of everyday life. Shepherds produce large round cheese which you will see for sale by the roadside.

The house doors are intricately carved. Colourful traditional costumes are worn on Sundays and for weddings and festivals because they have special meaning.

As to festivals, you will find them in full swing from Easter on.

An Ideal Place to Get Away

To sum it up, both in summer and winter, the valleys and mountains of Transylvania are refreshingly unspoilt and welcoming, an area where you can genuinely get away.

CLUJ - NAPOCA (Kloozh' Nah poh' kah)

City Highlights
- City Landmarks
- Museums
- Parks and Gardens
- Nearby Attractions
- Day Trips
- Performing Arts City Essentials
- Transportation
- Shopping
- Accommodation
- Tourist info
- Maps Cluj-Napoca - City Map (Harta orasului Cluj-Napoca



Cluj-Napoca - location, population, county Cluj-Napoca on map - Romania Physical Map

CLUJ-NAPOCA - City Highlights

Cluj-Napoca This western city in the region of Transylvania traces its origins back to the Dacian settlement of Napuca in the 2-nd century A.D. After the Roman take-over of Dacia, it was renamed Napoca and in 124 A.D., received the rank of "municipium". The city quickly advanced socially and economically and during Marcus Aurelius' reign Napoca received the title "colonia", the highest possible urban status in the Roman Empire.

The name Cluj comes from Castrum Clus, first used in the 12-th century as the name of the citadel surrounding the city. Clus means "closed" in Latin and refers to the hills that surround the city.

German merchants, who arrived here in the 12th century, rebuilt the medieval earthen walls of Clus in stone after the Tartar invasion of 1241. Known as Klausenburg to the Germans* and Kolosvar to the Hungarians, Cluj became Cluj Napoca in the 1970s, when the communist regime added the name of the old Roman settlement to emphasize its Daco-Roman origin.

With one of the most vibrant economies in the country and a population of around 330,000, Cluj, is today a vibrant cultural and educational city. The six state and several private universities located here also make Cluj Napoca the city with the largest percentage of student population in Romania.

Cluj Napoca national Theatre The main square, resplendent with 18th and 19th century buildings and home to many shops and restaurants, is dominated by the 15th century St. Michael's Church, one of the finest examples of gothic architecture in Romania. The square also claims the 18-th century baroque Banffy Palace, housing the weaponry and Romanian art collections of the Art Museum. Visitors who want to learn more about the region should pay a visit to the open-air section of the Ethnographic Museum of Transylvania, a true display of folk architecture. For entertainment, spend an enjoyable evening at the Opera or attend a classical music concert offered by the Cluj Philharmonic.

* The seven walled citadels populated by the Saxons of Transylvania were known in German as the Siebenbürgen.

The other Siebenbürgen citadels are located in the towns of: Bistrita (Bistritz), Brasov (Kronstadt), Medias (Mediasch), Sebes (Mühlbach), Sibiu (Hermannstadt), Sighisoara (Schässburg)

Romania

City Landmarks

Union Square (Piata Unirii)
Featuring baroque, gothic, Renaissance and neoclassical buildings, the square allows for quick access to St. Michael's Church and the Banffy Palace. Flanking the church on the south side is a 1902 equestrian statue of the 15-th century ruler, Matei Corvin. In the southwest corner of the square stands Hotel Continental, built in 1895 in an eclectic style combining Renaissance, classical and baroque elements. During World War II, the hotel served as the German military headquarters in Transylvania. Across the square, you can visit the Hintz House, which served as Cluj's first and longest-running pharmacy (1573-1949) and is now home to the Pharmacy Museum (see museum details).

Saint Michael - Cluj-Napoca St. Michael's Church (Biserica Sfantul Mihail)
Address: Piata Unirii


This church is one of the most beautiful gothic monuments in Transylvania. St. Michael's Church was erected between 1350 and 1487 on the site of the former St. Jacob's Chapel. The altar, built around 1390, is the oldest part of the church. The most recent section is the tower, erected in neo-gothic style in 1860. The star-shaped vault, the stained-glass windows and the sculptures impress with their beauty and grandeur. Repeated restorations revealed early 15th century murals. The latest restoration took place between 1957 and 1960.

Banffy Palace (Palatul Banffy)
Address: Piata Unirii
An imposing former residence of the Austro-Hungarian governors, Banffy Palace was designed by the German architect, Johann Eberhard Blaumann, for then-governor of the city, Banffy Gyorgy. Built between 1774 and 1775, it is considered the most representative example of baroque style in Transylvania. In 1951, the palace became the home of the Cluj National Art Museum (see museum details).

Saint Michael - Calvinist Reformed Calvinist Reformed Church (Biserica Reformata)
Address: Str. Mihail Kogalniceanu 16
The building of this impressive church began in 1486 and was completed around 1516, with a pulpit added in 1646. The church, one of the largest in southeastern Europe, is a perfect illustration of the late gothic architectural style. Created in 1373 by the masters Martin and George of Cluj, the statue of St. George slaying the dragon, which stands in front of the church, was inspired by one of the world's most famous equestrian sculptures, a 14-th century statue displayed in centre of Prague. Organ concerts are frequently held in the church.

St. Peter and Paul Church (Biserica Sf. Petru si Pavel)
Address: Blvd. 21 Decembrie 1989
Named for the apostles Peter and Paul, this gothic church was built between 1844 and 1848 on the foundation of an earlier church.

The imposing portal at the entrance was built by a priest, Biro Jozsef, after the Black Death struck the town (1738-1742). A statue of Saint Archangel Michael is centered above the main entrance, flanked on the left by John the Baptist, Saint Sebastian and Saint Charles Borromei, and on the right by Saint John the Evangelist, Saint Rocus and Saint John Nepomuc. The portal was moved here in 1899 from its former location at St. Michael's Church and was recently restored.

The statue of St. Mary is a beautiful and valuable baroque work of art by sculptor Schenbauer Antal, who created it for the consul, Kornis Antal, in 1744. The statue was removed from its former location at the crossroads of Kogalniceanu and Universitatii Streets and placed in the yard behind the church in 1961.

Tailors' Bastion (Bastionul Croitorilor)
Address: Piata Baba Novac
Dating from 1550, Tailors' Bastion is the only such structure still standing from the medieval fortified city.

Fortress Hill (Dealul Cetatuia)
For the best views of the city and the surrounding landscape, climb some 200 feet up Fortress Hill. The name refers to an Austrian fortress built here in the 18-th century to ensure control, rather than defense, of the city.

The fortress also served occasionally as a prison, and it was here that Stephan Ludwig Roth, the 1848 hero of the Transylvanian Saxons, was held, accused of high treason and executed at the northern gate on May 11, 1849.

Romania

Historic Churches

The Franciscan Monastery and Church (Manastirea si Biserica Franciscana)
Address: Str. Victor Deleu 4
Open: daily 7am - 7 pm
Free admission
One of the city's oldest structures, the Franciscan Monastery was built in the 15-th century on the site of an older church dating from 1273 and handed to the Dominican order by ruler Iancu de Hunedoara in 1455. Located at the south of the monastery complex, the church was offered as a gift to the Franciscans who restored it in baroque style around the year 1728.

Cathedral of the Transfiguration (Catedrala Schimbarea la Fata)
Address: Blvd. Eroilor 10
In 1764, the church was bought by Franciscan monks living on the outskirts of Cluj. Its tower practically crumbled 15 years later, thus destroying the whole frontispiece. Restoration work began in 1783 and the church was rebuilt in baroque style. In 1924, it was donated to the Romanian Greek-Catholic Church.

St. Mary Calvaria Church (Biserica Romano-Catolica Calvaria)
Address: Str. Manasturului 60
A powerful Benedictine abbey stood once at the western gates of the city, in the oldest quarter of the town. The abbey was known under the name Monasterium Beaae Mariae de Clus and it enjoyed outstanding rights and privileges. Benedictine monks settled in towards the end of the 11-th century. During the Tartar invasion of 1241, the abbey was pillaged and burned down. The building was restored in 1263 and the current monastery of Calvaria was built between 1470 and 1508 in gothic style.

Over the years, the monastery enjoyed periods of prosperity, but also underwent times of decay. In 1787, after the war against the Turks, Bishop Alexandru Rudnai decided to have both the church and the surrounding fortifications pulled down; only the altar was spared and it was later turned into a chapel. Nothing was left of the artistic assets of the church, except for a statue of the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus; the statue currently stands on a pedestal, under a gothic baldachin, above the entrance door. The chapel, dating to 1831, and the belfry, designed in 1922 by the renowned Hungarian architect Karoly Koos are noteworthy.

Jewish Cluj-Napoca

The New Synagogue (Sinagoga Noua)
Address: Str. Horea 21
The original grand Moorish-style synagogue, better known as the Memorial Temple of the Deportees (in memory of those who died in World War II), was designed by architect Hegner Izidor and opened on September 4th, 1887. Ruined 40 years later by the Iron Guard, a nationalistic Fascist organization of the time, it was restored in 1951 with the support of Romania's Jewish community.

Romania

Museums

Cluj - Banffy palace - Museum of Art Cluj National Museum of Art
(Muzeul National de Arta Cluj)
Address: Piata Unirii 30
Tel: (264) 496.952
Open: Wed. - Sun. 12:00pm - 7:00pm; Closed Mon. & Tues.
Admission charge
The 22 halls of the Banffy Palace display sculptures, graphics, weapons, furniture, carpets, and paintings by famous Romanian artists such as Nicolae Grigorescu (1838-1907), Theodor Aman (1831-1891) and Theodor Pallady (1871-1956). Both Grigorescu and Aman were influenced by the Barbizon group and the Impressionists, while Pallady spent many years in Paris and drew inspiration from Matisse.

Emil Racovita Speleology Institute & Museum (Insitutul de Speologie Emil Racovita)
Address: Str. Clinicilor 5
Tel: (646) 597.567
Open: Mon. - Fri. 9:00am - 5:00pm; Closed Sat. & Sun.
Admission charge
The museum displays the fascinating collection of renowned Romanian biologist, Emila Racovita (1868-1947), who set up the Romanian Speleology Institute in 1920. Here, you can admire some of the discoveries made by Racovita in the spectacular caves of Romania, including different types of rocks which preserve the traces of animals that died thousands of years ago.

Interesting facts:
The Emil Racovita Speleology Museum is the only one of its kind in Europe

Ethnographic Museum of Transylvania (Muzeul Etnografic al Transilvaniei)
Address: Str. Memorandumului 21
Tel: (264) 592.344
E-mail: contact@muzeul-etnografic.ro
www.muzeul-etnografic.ro
Open: Tue. - Fri. 9:00am - 4:00pm; Sat. - Sun. 9:00am - 1:00pm; Closed Mon.
Admission charge
Endowed with a collection of more than 65,000 ethnographic items, the museum offers an excellent introduction to Transylvanian folk art and traditions. Founded in 1922, it is one of the most important ethnographic museums in Romania. Its various sections, devoted to trades, lodging, food, pottery, textiles, national costumes and customs, include more than 50,000 photographs as well as open-air and international sections. Together, they paint an image of Transylvania's folk culture.

History Museum of Transylvania (Muzeul National de Istorie al Transilvaniei)
Address: Str. Dr. Daicovici 2
Tel: (264) 591.718
Open: Tue. - Sun. 10:00am - 4:00pm; Closed Mon.
Admission charge
Founded in 1859, this museum illustrates the history of Transylvania from Paleolithic times to the present. The size of the collection has grown from about 24,000 items in the 1870s to more than 400,000 today, including many rare or extremely valuable objects. Strange skulls, mammoth tusks, arrow- and spearheads illustrate the progress from the Neolithic and Bronze Ages to the rise of the Dacian civilization, which reached its peak between the second century B.C. and the first century A.D. The sections for medieval, modern and contemporary history and the Numismatic Cabinet contain collections of decorative art, ancient books, old printings, memoirs, history and coins.

Pharmacy Museum (Muzeul Farmaceutic)
Address: Str. Regele Ferdinand 1
Tel: (646) 597.567
Open: Mon. - Sat. 10:00am - 4:00pm; Closed Sun.
Admission charge
This museum, exhibiting some 2,300 medical instruments, is located on the site of Cluj-Napoca's first pharmacy (1573).

Romania

Parks and Gardens

Alexandru Borza Botanical Garden (Gradina Botanica Alexadru Borza)
Address: Str. Gheorghe Bilascu 42
Open: Mon. - Sun. 9:00am - 8:00pm
Admission charge
Cluj-Napoca Botanical Garden, one of the largest in southeastern Europe, is home to some 10,000 plant species. Within the grounds, you can visit a museum; several greenhouses with desert and tropical plants, including huge Amazonian water lilies; a Japanese garden with a brook and a Japanese-style house, and the Roman Garden with archeological relics from the Roman colony of Napoca.

Central Park (Parcul Central)
Hire a boat to row on the small lake or just enjoy a stroll in this 180-year old park.

Romulus Vuia Ethnographic Park (Parcul Etnografic Romulus Vuia)
Address: Str. Taietura Turcului
Email: contact@muzeul-etnografic.ro
www.muzeul-etnografic.ro
Open: Tue. - Sun. 10:00am - 6:00pm; Closed Mon.
Admission charge
Founded in 1929, the park exhibits some 90 Romanian, Saxon and Szekler traditional houses, sawmills, wells, potter's workshops, sheepfolds and outbuildings for grinding gold-bearing ores, sheep rearing, blacksmithing and tanning hides. The park also contains several 18th century wooden churches from the Transylvania region.

Romania

Nearby Attractions

Alexandru Borza Botanical Garden (Gradina Botanica Alexadru Borza)
Address: Str. Gheorghe Bilascu 42
Open: Mon. - Sun. 9:00am - 8:00pm
Admission charge
Cluj-Napoca Botanical Garden, one of the largest in southeastern Europe, is home to some 10,000 plant species. Within the grounds, you can visit a museum; several greenhouses with desert and tropical plants, including huge Amazonian water lilies; a Japanese garden with a brook and a Japanese-style house, and the Roman Garden with archeological relics from the Roman colony of Napoca.

Central Park (Parcul Central)
Hire a boat to row on the small lake or just enjoy a stroll in this 180-year old park.

Romulus Vuia Ethnographic Park (Parcul Etnografic Romulus Vuia)
Address: Str. Taietura Turcului
Email: contact@muzeul-etnografic.ro
www.muzeul-etnografic.ro
Open: Tue. - Sun. 10:00am - 6:00pm; Closed Mon.
Admission charge
Founded in 1929, the park exhibits some 90 Romanian, Saxon and Szekler traditional houses, sawmills, wells, potter's workshops, sheepfolds and outbuildings for grinding gold-bearing ores, sheep rearing, blacksmithing and tanning hides. The park also contains several 18th century wooden churches from the Transylvania region.

Interesting facts:
- Salt was first mined at the Turda salt mines in 1271. For most of the 20th century, the former mines were used as deposits for cheese. Today, they are open to visitors.
- One mile east of Turda, you can relax at Baile Turda, a natural outdoor spa built on the site of an old Roman salt mine.

Romania

Day Trips

Medieval town of Bistrita
Where: 65 miles northeast of Cluj Napoca
Access: car, bus, train

Apuseni Mountains & Scarisoara Cave (Muntii Apuseni & Ghetarul Scarisoara)
Where: 45 miles southwest of Cluj Napoca
Access: car
Cluj makes a great base for exploring the stunning Apuseni mountain range, located southwest of the city. The Apuseni Nature Park protects one of the most interesting cave systems in the country. Limestone underlies most of the park and is responsible for the area's impressive landforms and more then 400 caves, many of which can be explored. Sculptured mountain ridges, mysterious underground rivers and delicate cave formations will keep your camera busy.

Rent a car in Cluj and take the scenic drive to Campeni, via Lake Fantanele. Explore Scarisoara Cave, a national monument and home to the second largest underground glacier in Europe.

The Apuseni Motzi villages are ideal places to find the tranquility and timeless wisdom of traditional village life, vibrantly alive and intact here as perhaps, nowhere else in Europe.

Targu Mures
Where: 60 miles southeast of Cluj Napoca
Access: car, bus, train

Romania

Performing Arts

Opera & Ballet

Cluj - Opera House Opera
(Opera National Romana Cluj Napoca)
Address: Piata Stefan cel Mare 24
Tel: (264) 597.129
Email: info@operacluj.ro
www.operacluj.ro
Aida by Giuseppe Verdi was performed at the opening night of the Cluj National Opera in 1919. Since then, the opera company's repertoire has added impressive stage productions such as La Boheme, Tosca, Giselle, Carmen, Faust and the Bald Soprano.

Hungarian Theatre & Opera (Teatrul si Opera Maghiara din Cluj)
Address: Str. Emil Isac 26-28
Tel: (264) 439.295 or 593.463
Email: contact@opera-maghiara-cluj.ro
www.hungarianopera.ro

Symphonic Music

Cluj Philharmonic (Filarmonica de Stat Transilvania)
Address: Str. Mihail Kogalniceanu
Tel: (264) 430.060
www.cluj-philharmonic.org
The Philharmonic Hall, home of the Transilvania State Philharmonic (founded in 1955), hosts numerous orchestral and chamber music concerts. The Cluj Transilvania State Philharmonic consists of five high standard ensembles, the Symphony Orchestra, the Choir, the Chamber Orchestra, the Transilvan Quartet and the Folk Music Orchestra.

Theatre

National Theatre (Teatrul National Lucian Blaga)
Address: Piata Stefan cel Mare 24
Tel: (264) 592.976

Puck Puppet Theatre (Teatrul de Marionete)
Address: Str. I.C. Bratianu 23
Tel: (264) 595.992

Romania

CITY ESSENTIALS

Transportation

By air

Cluj Napoca International Airport (CLJ)
Address: Str. Traian Vuia 149
Tel: (264) 416.702
Email: aercj@codec.ro
www.airportcluj.ro
The airport is located 2.5 miles from the city centre. Taxis are the easiest way to get around. Bus number # 8 runs from the airport to Piata Mihai Viteazul in the centre of the city.

International flight connections from/to: Austria (Vienna); Germany (Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, Munich, Stuttgart); Hungary (Budapest); Italy (Ancona, Bergamo, Bologna, Florence, Milan, Napoli, Rome, Torino, Treviso, Venice, Verona); Ukraine (Lvov)

Domestic flight connections from/to: Bucharest (OTP)

Airlines with service to Cluj Napoca:
Austrian Airlines www.austrianairlines.com
Blue Air www.blueair-web.com
Carpat Air www.carpatair.ro
Malev www.malev.com
Tarom www.tarom.ro

By train

Cluj Napoca - main train station (Gara Cluj Napoca)
Address: Str. Garii 1-3
Tel: (264) 592.952 or 952
There are daily trains from/to Budapest (journey time - 8 hours). Trains to other western European cities run via Budapest.

International trains to Cluj Napoca:
From Departure time Train #(and name) Arrival Time Arrival City
Budapest 3:15 pm 646 / 407(Corona) 11:54 pm Cluj Napoca
Budapest 1:15 pm 644 / 365 (Ady Endre) 9:30 pm Cluj Napoca

There are daily trains connecting Cluj-Napoca to Bistrita, Bucharest, Gura Humorului, Iasi, Oradea, Satu Mare, Sighetu Marmatiei, Suceava, Timisoara and several other cities in Romania.

There are daily INTERCITY (Express) trains connecting Cluj Napoca with Bucharest (journey time: 8 hours), Brasov (journey time: 5 hours), Medias (journey time: 2 ¾ hours), Sighisoara (journey time: 3 ½ hours), Oradea (journey time: 2 ¼ hours) and Timisoara (journey time: 5 hours).

To check the latest train schedules for domestic routes please visit the website of the Romanian Railways: www.infofer.ro

The site has complete information about domestic train schedules and fares.
Note: For departures from/to Timisoara please select Timisoara Nord.
For departures from/to Bucharest please select Bucuresti Nord.

SNCFR's advance booking office (Agentia de Voiaj SNCFR Cluj-Napoca)
Address: Piata Mihai Viteazu 11
Tel: (264) 432.001
Open: Mon. - Fri. 8:00am - 8:00pm; Closed Sat. & Sun.
You can get train schedule information and make reservations up to 24 hours in advance at this office. Tickets for same-day travel can only be purchased at the station.

By bus

Cluj Napoca Bus Station # 1 (Autogara Cluj Napoca)
Address: Str. Giordano Bruno 3-5
Tel: (264) 435.278

Daily domestic bus service from/to:
Alba Iulia
Arad
Baia Mare
Bistrita
Brasov
Bucuresti
Campeni
Horezu
Hunedoara
Iasi
Oradea
Mangalia
Piatra Neamt
Reghin
Satu Mare
Sebes
Sibiu
Sighetu Marmatiei
Targu Lapus
Targu Mures
Vatra Dornei

Romania

By car

The recommended route from Bucharest to Cluj Napoca is:
Bucharest - Brasov - Sighisoara - Targu Mures - Cluj (E60)

The recommended route from Budapest to Cluj Nappoca is:
Budapest - Debrecen - Bors - Oradea - Cluj (E60)

Distances

Distance from Cluj-Napoca to:
City Distance (Miles)
Bucharest 270
Arad 158
Belgrade 280
Brasov 160
Budapest 275
Constanta 392
Oradea 90
Prague 532
Satu Mare 102
Sibiu 98
Sighisoara 90
Suceava 200
Timisoara 190
Tulcea 360
Vienna 390

Public Transportation

Several bus (autobuz), tram (tramvai) and trolleybus (troilebuz) routes connect Cluj Napoca's main areas and tourist attractions. The public transportation system runs between 5:00am and 11:15pm.

Tickets must be purchased beforehand and validated in the ticket-stamping machine upon boarding. Tickets are interchangeable for all three forms of transport with the exception of express buses.

Taxi companies

Atlas - 969
Diesel Rapid - 946
Diesel Taxi - 953
Nova - 949
Pritax - 942
Pro Rapid - 948
Terra & Fan - 944

Car rental

Avis
Address: Cluj Napoca International Airport &
Blvd. 22 Decembrie 1989 nr.56 (Hotel Victoria)
Tel: (264) 439.403
Email: cluj.dt@avis.ro
Web: www.avis.ro

Aerocenter
Address: Piata Cipariu 15
Tel: (264) 439.117
Email: office@aerocenter.ro
Web: www.rentacar-romania.ro

Autorent (Dollar)
Address: Piata Cipariu 15
Tel: 740.002.000
Email: office@autorent.ro
Web: www.autorent.ro

Hertz
Address: Traian Vuia Airport
Tel: (364) 401.722 or 747.297.849
Email: cluj.apt@hertz.com.ro
Web: www.hertz.com.ro

Rent-A-Car Cluj
Address: Str. Amurg 46
Tel: 746 150.353 or 745 615.755
Email: rezerv@rent-a-car-cluj.ro
Web: www.rent-a-car-cluj.ro

Menuett
Address: Piata Cipariu 15
Tel: 723 282.263
Email: dan.pantis@yahoo.com
Web: www.clujrentacar.com

Sixt
Address: Cluj Napoca International Airport
Tel: (264) 417.740 or 749 169.401
Email: email@sixt.ro
Web: www.sixt.ro

Thrifty
Address: Cluj Napoca International Airport
Tel: (264) 417.881
Email: www.sixt.ro
Web: www.thrifty.ro

Romania

Shopping

Art Galleries

Galeria Szabo Bela
Address: Piata Unirii 23

Galeria 32
Address: Str. Iuliu Maniu 32

Galeria Atas
Address: Str. Matei Corvin 6

Galeria Expoart
Address: Str. F. D. Roosvelt 3

Galeria Protokoll
Address: Str. Taietura Turcului 4


Galeria Uniunii Artistilor Plastici
Address: Str. Iuliu Maniu 2-4

Galeria Veche
Address: Piata Unirii

Accommodation
For a list of available accommodations in Cluj-Napoca please click here or check our accommodation guide.

Tourist Info

Weather
Cluj-Napoca Weather Forecast

Postal services & Telephone
Post offices display a postal horn symbol and the word Posta.

Main Post Office
Address: Str. Regele Ferdinand 33

Open: Mon. - Fri. 7:00am - 8:30pm; Sat. 8:00am - 1:00pm; Closed Sun.

Telephoning Cluj Napoca from Abroad
International Access Code + 40 (country code) + 264 or 364 (area code) + telephone number (six digit number)

Pharmacies & Hospitals
There are several pharmacies (farmacie) open 24 hours a day in the city.

Emergency Clinic Hospital (Spitalul Clinic Judetean de Urgenta Cluj)
Address: Str. Clinicilor 3-5
Tel: (264) 592.771

Cluj-Napoca - Useful Telephone Numbers
Cluj-Napoca Area Code (Prefix Cluj-Napoca) 264 or 364
Ambulance (Ambulanta) 961
Police (Politia) 955
Fire Department (Pompierii) 981
Local & County Archives (Arhivele locale) (264) 598.979
City Hall (Primaria) (264) 196.030
Better Business Bureau (264) 431.368
International calls (Convorbiri internationale) 971

THE NEW ROMANIA

In December 1989, Romania was reborn as a free nation. This diverse country now welcomes tourists who can enjoy a wonderfully varied heritage of traditional culture, scenic splendors and opportunities for leisure. A resurgence of Endeavour and enthusiasm is evaporating the tourist facilities of the country to create a unique holiday destination.

A Legendary History

The very name "Romania" reminds us that ancient Rome exercised a decisive influence on this country and on the monuments of that era.
There are feudal fortresses, Byzantine decorated monasteries and adorned village houses to be admired, while "Dracula's" castle is only one among many other fascinating castles and palaces.

Plenty of Things to Do and See

The choice of activities and places to visit is extensive. You can ski in traditional or purpose-built mountain resorts or laze in the hot sun on the beaches at the Black Sea, comparable to those on the Mediterranean.
You can hike through unspoilt landscapes, where rivers run clear, or go boating in the 5,640 sq km (2,200 sq miles) water wilderness of the Danube Delta. Out of this total surface 4,340 sq km (1,695 sq miles) are to be found in Romania. There one can see pelicans and other endangered birds among floating iles overgrown with reeds.
One can also enjoy the architecture, museums and galleries of the cities.

Living Cultural Traditions
Link Market - Free Link Exchange, Link Swap and Link Trade Directory
Have you ever tried to exchange links, swap links, or trade links? Was it hard? Use link market instead; - it is easy to use, free and very smart. It will save you hours of work.
You can see folk festivals in Transylvania that are genuine expressions of local culture, not merely staged for visitors. When you buy local woodcarvings or pottery you buy things made to give pleasure while in use, not just valueless souvenirs.
One of the many extraordinary aspects of this country is its vibrant rural culture. For decades the outside world heard little about it. Not that Romania's heritage is simply one of folk art! Bucharest used to be called the "Little Paris", and with good reason, too!
Today first class opera and concert halls, permanent art exibitions, like that of the sculpturer Brancusi, fine museums and galleries are all specific for Romania's new sophisticated artistic sensitivity.

Romania is the largest of the Balkan states, sitting at the crossroads of Europe, whose nationals are proud of being ‘an island of Latinos’ in a ‘sea of slavs'. The country has seen several empires come and go - Roman, Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian, all leaving their legacy.

Romania has a rich cultural and natural diversity. Its dramatic mountain scenery includes the densely forested Carpathian Mountains, the Danube Delta (the largest wetland in Europe) and 70km (43 miles) of fine white sandy beaches on the Black Sea Coast.

In picturesque valleys and on mountain slopes are many health and winter resorts. Romania's cultural heritage can be experienced in the Saxon towns of Transylvania, also home to Bran Castle, of Dracula fame, the painted monasteries of Bucovina and the rural village idyll of Maramures.

The capital, Bucharest, earned the nickname ‘Paris of the Balkans', but it is the stunning medieval city of Sibiu in Transylvania that was crowned European Capital of Culture 2007.

Since the overthrow of Nicolae Ceausescu's communist dictatorship in 1989, Romania has been working towards the twin goals of gaining admission to NATO, which it joined in 2004, and the European Union, which it achieved in January 2007, behind some of its neighbours

Location

Romania is situated in the southeastern part of Central Europe and shares borders with Hungary to the northwest, Yugoslavia to the southwest, Bulgaria to the south, the Black Sea and Ukraine to the southeast and to the north and the Republic of Moldova to the east. Roughly the size of Oregon, Romania is the second largest country in the area, after Poland.

Geographical location of Romania: between latitudes 43°37'07" and 48°15'06" North and longitudes 20°15'44" and 29°41'24" East.

Romania extends approximately 300 miles North to South and 400 miles East to West.

Bucharest — the capital city of Romania — is aligned approximately with the cities of Portland, Oregon; Montreal, Canada; Venice, Italy; and Bordeaux, France.

Romania's territory features splendid mountains, beautiful rolling hills, fertile plains and numerous rivers and lakes. The Carpathian Mountains traverse the centre of the country bordered on both sides by foothills and finally the great plains of the outer rim. Forests cover over one quarter of the country and the fauna is one of the richest in Europe including bears, deer, lynx, chamois and wolves. The legendary Danube River ends its eight-country journey through eight European countries at the Black Sea by forming one of the biggest and most interesting wetlands in the world, the Danube Delta.

About a third of the country consists of the Carpathian Mountains (also known as the Transylvanian Alps). Another third is hills and plateaus, rich with orchards and vineyards. The final third is a fertile plain, largely devoted to agriculture. The Danube River runs through the country, from northwest to southeast, culminating in the Danube Delta and the Black Sea.

Physical features
• Mountains: 31% of Romania's territory
• Hills and orchards: 36%
• Plains: 33%
• Areas covered by rivers and lakes: 3.7 %
• Total number of lakes: 3,500
• Lakes greater than 250 acres: 300
• Highest mountain peak: Moldoveanu Mt. — 8,349 ft. (2544 m.)

Climate

Romania has a temperate climate, similar to the northeastern United States, with four distinct seasons.

Spring is pleasant with cool mornings and nights and warm days.

Summer is quite warm, with extended sunny days. The hottest areas in summer are the lowlands in southern and eastern Romania where 100 F is often reached in July and August. Temperatures are always cooler in the mountains.

Autumn is dry and cool, with fields and trees producing colorful foliage, much like New England.

Winters can be cold, especially in the mountains. While not the rule, abundant snowfalls may occur throughout the country, from December to mid-March.

There are significant regional differences of the climate between different regions of Romania.

Average temperatures °F
Month Bucharest Western Romania Central Romania The Black Sea Coast
January 26 28 34 31
February 31 34 34 34
March 40 41 42 39
April 52 52 52 55
May 62 61 61 66
June 69 67 66 75
July 71 67 69 79
August 70 65 69 79
September 65 65 65 70
October 53 53 55 62
November 41 43 45 52
December 34 34 36 43

The above temperatures are averages. Please keep in mind that variances can be as high as +/- 60°F at midday during the Summer or over night during the Winter.

Romania Weather Forecast

Bucharest Weather Forecast

Facts about Romania's climate:

Warmest month: July

Coldest month: January

Record High Temperature:
44.5°C (112°F) - August 10, 1951 South-Eastern Romania

Record Low Temperature:
-38.5°C (-37.3°F) - January 24, 1942 (Central Romania)

Average annual Rainfall: 26 inches.

People

Foreign visitors consider Romanians among the friendliest and most hospitable people on earth. Romanians are by nature fun loving, warm, hospitable, playful, with an innate sense of humor.

Romania is associated with big names in arts and sports:
Constantin Brancusi — one of the most acclaimed modern sculptors.

Angela Gheorghiu, one of the world's greatest opera soprano - www.angelagheorghiu.com

Alexandra Nechita — a young Romanian painter living in California, known for her distinct style. For more info about Alexandra and her art please visit: www.iapart.com

Ilie Nastase — U.S. Open and Roland Garos winner, is still one of crowd's favorites at the U.S. Open.

Nadia Comaneci — the Olympic champion gymnast, saluted by people everywhere.

Other world renowned Romanian artists include the writer Eugen Ionesco, pan flute virtuoso Gheorghe Zamfir, piano player Radu Lupu and musician George Enescu.

About 21,700,000 people live in Romania.
Ethnic breakdown is 89% Romanian 7.5% Hungarian, 1.9% Gypsy, German, Ukrainian, Armenian, Croatian, Serbian and Turkish. More than 55% of Romania's population lives in towns and cities.

There are 263 towns in Romania out of which 25 have a population of more than 100,000 while 8 cities count more than 300,000 inhabitants.
45 % of Romanians live in rural areas: 2,868 communes and 13,285 villages.
The administrative divisions are called "judet" (county).
There are 41 counties in Romania.
The capital city, Bucharest, has the status of a county.

Bucharest — the capital of Romania has a population of more than 2,200,000.

Main religions in Romania
Eastern Orthodox 87%,
Roman Catholic 5%
Protestant 5%.

romanian tourist information

Language
Romanian, a Latin based language which is a continuation of the Latin spoken in ancient times in Dacia and Moesia — the eastern provinces of the Roman Empire.
A 31-letter Latin alphabet is in use.
Ethnic minorities (Hungarian and German) use their own languages in school and civil administration.
Literacy rate in Romania is 98%.
Most Romanians living in towns and cities are able to communicate in English, French or German. In smaller villages only younger people and children speak one or more foreign languages.

To order the comprehensive "Romanian - English/ English Romanian Dictionary & Phrasebook" please e-mail: orders@hippocrenebooks.com or visit www.hippocrenebooks.com
The book also includes information about Romania's historical and cultural background. $12.95 paperback; ISBN 0-7818-0921-5


Public Holidays
January 1 and 2: New Year
Monday following Orthodox Easter:
March, April or early May (date varies)
May 1: Labor Day
Rusaliile: (Christian Orthodox Religious Holiday - celebrated 50 days after Easter - May 31 and June 1 in 2009)
August 15: Saint Mary's Day
December 1: National Day
December 25-26: Christmas

Dates of the Orthodox Easter (public holiday):
2009 - April 19, 20
2010 - April 4, 5

Several religious holidays including feasts of St. John (January 7), St. George (April 23), Sts. Peter & Paul (June 29), St. Mary (August 15), St. Michael (November 8) and St. Nicholas (December 6) are observed throughout the year in rural areas.
It is customary for Romanians all over the country to celebrate their Saint's Name Day (Ziua Onomastica).
Ethnic minorities celebrate their own holidays.


History

Romania's history has not been as idyllically peaceful as its geography. Over the centuries, various migrating people invaded Romania. Romania's historical provinces Wallachia and Moldova offered furious resistance to the invading Ottoman Turks. Transylvania was successively under Hapsburg, Ottoman or Wallachian rule, while remaining an autonomous province.

Romania's post WWII history as a communist-block nation is more widely known, primarily due to the excesses of the former dictator Nicolae Ceausescu. In December 1989 a national uprising led to his overthrow. The 1991 Constitution established Romania as a republic with a multiparty system, market economy and individual rights of free speech, religion and private ownership.

Recommended reading: Romania, An Illustrated History by Nicolae Klepper, - an insightful synthesis addressed to all those who want to learn about Romania's history, politics, culture, and society.
To order the book please e-mail: orders@hippocrenebooks.com
or visit www.hippocrenebooks.com



Some of the history that has shaped Romania
What is now Romania has been inhabited since the Paleolithic Age as evidenced by carved stone tools unearthed there.

10,000 B.C. — approximate date of the first known art in present day Romania: cave paintings in northwest Transylvania.

4,000 B.C. — approximate date of pottery (dated to the Neolithic Age) that is found in all regions of Romania.

3,000 B.C. — Thracian tribes of Indo-European origin, who migrated from Asia, occupied the actual territory of Romania.

2,000 B.C. — a distinctive Thracian sub-group emerged in what is now Romania. The Greeks called these people Getae, but to the Romans they were Dacians. Herodotus called them "the fairest and most courageous of men" because they believed in the immortality of the soul and were not afraid to die.

romanian

700 B.C. — Greeks arrived and settled near the Black Sea. The cities of Histria, Tomis (now Constanta) and Callatis (now Mangalia) were established. Western-style civilization developed significantly.

70-44 B.C. — Dacian king Burebista controlled the territory of modern-day Romania. Burebista created a powerful Dacian kingdom.

100 A.D. — Dacian civilization reaches its peak.

101-106 A.D. — Romans conquer and colonize Dacia (today's Romania). Dacia becomes a Roman province and Dacians adopt the conquerors' language.

106-274 A.D. — Dacia is a province of the Roman Empire.

271 A.D. — after fighting off the barbarian Goths, Roman troops abandon Dacia.

history

4th Century — Christianity is adopted by the Daco-Roman, Latin-speaking people.

4th-10th Centuries — nomadic tribes from Asia and Europe (Goths, Visigoths, Huns, Slavs, Magyars) invade Dacia.

11th Century — Romanians were the only Latin people in the eastern part of the former Roman Empire and the only Latin people to belong to the Orthodox faith.
Hungarian (Magyar) forces invade northeastern and central Romania (Transylvania).

12th Century — Saxon (German) settlers begin to establish several towns in Transylvania. (Germans were invited to settle in Transylvania the the king of Hungary who wanted to consolidate his position in the newly occupied territory).

13th Century — The first formal division of the formerly unified Romanian population. The principalities of Wallachia, Moldavia, and Transylvania are established. Transylvania becomes an autonomous principality under Magyar rule, until 1526. Magyar forces tried unsuccessfully to capture Wallachia and Moldavia.

14th-15th Centuries — Wallachia and Moldavia offered strong resistance to the Ottoman Empire expansion.

16th Century — Threatened by the Turks who conquered Hungary, the three Romanian provinces of Wallachia, Moldova and Transylvania are able to retain their autonomy by paying tribute to the Turks.



17th Century — Wallachia, Moldavia and Transylvania are briefly united under Mihai Viteazul (Michael the Brave), prince of Wallachia. Unity lasted only one year after which, Michael the Brave was defeated by the Turks and Hapsburg forces. Transylvania came under Hapsburg rule while Turkish suzerainty continued in Wallachia and Moldavia.

18th Century — Transylvania and the northern part of Moldavia (called Bucovina) are incorporated in the Hapsburg Empire.

1821 — Moldavia looses its eastern territory, Bessarabia, to Russia.

1848 — Transylvania falls under the direct rule of Hungary and a strong push for Magyarisation (of names and official language), from Budapest, follows.

1859 — Alexandru Ioan Cuza is elected to the thrones of Moldavia and Wallachia.

1862 — Wallachia and Moldavia unite to form a national state: Romania.

1866 — Carol I (German born) succeeds Alexandru Ioan Cuza, as prince of Romania.

1881 — Romania becomes a Kingdom.

history

1914 — King Carol I dies. He is succeeded by his nephew King Ferdinand I (1914-1927). Romania enters WWI on the side of the Triple Entente aiming to regain its lost territories (part of Transylvania, Bessarabia and Bukovina).

1918 — During large public assemblies representatives of most towns, villages and local communities in Transylvania, Bessarabia and Bucovina declare union with Romania.

1930 — Carol II, Ferdinand's I son becomes king of Romania.

1939 — Germany demands a monopoly on Romanian exports (mainly oil, lumber and agricultural products) in exchange for the guarantee of its borders.

1940 — The Soviet Union annexes Bessarabia and Northern Bucovina. Germany and Italy force Romania to cede Northern Transylvania to Hungary and Southern Dobrogea to Bulgaria. Widespread demonstrations against King Carol II. Marshall Ion Antonescu forces him to abdicate in favor of his 19-year-old son Michael. Carol II flees Romania.

1941 — Marshall Ion Antonescu imposes a military dictatorship. In order to regain Bessarabia, Romania joins Germany against the Soviet Union.

1944 — King Michael engineers a royal coup and arrests Marshall Ion Antonescu. Romania changes sides and joins Soviet forces against Fascist Germany.

1945 — The Yalta Agreement makes Romania part of the Soviet system.

1947 — With Soviet troops on its territory, Romania enters the sphere of influence of the Soviet Union. The communists, who gradually took power, force King Michael to abdicate and proclaim Romania a People's Republic.

history

1950s — After Stalin's death, Romania begins to distance itself from Moscow.

1968 — The condemnation of Soviet intervention in Czechoslovakia by Romania's communist leader Nicolae Ceausescu, earns him praise and economic aid from the West.

1980s — Obsessed with repaying the national debt and megalomaniac building projects Ceausescu orders a ban on importation of any consumer products and commands exportation of all goods produced in Romania except minimum food supplies. Severe restrictions of civil rights are imposed.

1989 — Romanians unite in protests against the communist leadership and local demonstrations sparked a national uprising that finally ousted communist ruler Nicolae Ceausescu and his cabinet.

1991 — Romanians vote for a new Constitution.

2004 — Romania joins NATO (The North Atlantic Treaty Organization).

2007 — Romania becomes a member of the European Union (EU).



Economy

For many centuries Romania's economy was based on agriculture. In the 1930s Romania was one of the main European producers of wheat, corn and meats and it used to be called "the bread basket of Europe." In the 1950s the communist leader of Romania, Gheorghe Gheorghiu Dej, began developing heavy industry.

There has been a shift towards heavy industries since the 1970s but the agriculture is still economically important and employs about one-third of the workforce.

Romania produces coal, natural gas, iron ore and petroleum but most raw material for the country's large industrial capacity potential are imported. Prominent industries include chemical (petrochemical, paints and varnishes), metal processing, machine manufacturing, industrial and transport equipment, textiles, manufactured consumer goods, lumbering and furniture.

39.2% of Romania's territory is arable land, 28% forests, 21% pastures, hayfields and orchards and 2.5% vineyards. Corn, wheat, vegetable oil seeds, vegetables, apples and grapes for wine are the main crops and sheep and pigs the main livestock. Forestry and fisheries are being developed under long-term programs. Since 1990, successive governments have concentrated on turning Romania into a market economy.

Romanian Centre for Foreign Trade
Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Romania



Before You Go to Romania

Traveling to Romania is as easy as traveling to any other European destination. Romania offers a rich tapestry of tourist attractions, which are unique in Europe.

Even if Romania is not your main travel destination in Europe, a two or three-day ad-on trip is well worthwhile. Although some remote areas in Romania only offer mid-scale or budget accommodations and basic tourist facilities those visiting the country will always encounter friendly people, wonderful sights and affordable prices.

Travel formalities
American and Canadian citizens as well as citizens of Australia, New Zealand and most European countries do not need an entry visa to visit Romania (for stays up to 90 - ninety - days).
However, a valid passport is required for all international visitors except for citizens of the countries of the European Union who can enter Romania with their Identity Card.
No vaccinations are required/ necessary.
There is no Entry or Departure Tax.
Extensions of stays beyond 90 days can be obtained from the local passport office.
Citizens of other countries should check the visa regulations that apply to them with the nearest Romanian diplomatic office.
For more visa information and a list of Romanian diplomatic offices abroad please visit www.mae.ro.

Romania information

When to go
Romania is a year-round tourist destination. However, from the end of April to the beginning of July and from end of August to the end of October are the most popular sightseeing periods, with generally mild and pleasant temperatures. Summers can be hot especially in Southern Romania, including Bucharest, but along the Black Sea Coast, sea breezes offer moderate temperatures. The mountain resorts and higher elevation areas are warm and pleasant during summer. Winters can be very cold, especially in the mountains and snow is common throughout the country from December to mid March. Skiers can usually enjoy their favorite sport in the Carpathian Mountain resorts from December until mid-April.

Romania Information

Money and Budget Guide

Currency exchange
Romania's currency is Leu (plural "Lei") (pronunciation: lay).

Banknote denominations: 1, 5, 10, 50, 100 and 500 lei
Coins: 1, 5, 10 and 50 bani pieces. (pronunciation: bahnee)
1leu = 100 bani

Foreign currencies may be exchanged at banks or authorized exchange offices (called: "casa de schimb" or "birou de schimb valutar"). International airports and larger hotels also offer currency exchange services.
Exchange rates** for foreign currencies, valid on February 2, 2009:
one US dollar = 3.32 Lei (3 lei and 32 bani)
one Canadian dollar = 2.70 Lei (2 lei and 70 bani)
one British Pound = 4.74 Lei (4 lei and 74 bani)
one Australian dollar = 2.13 Lei (2 lei and 13 bani)
one Euro = 4.27 Lei (4 lei and 27 bani)
** Official exchange rates announced by the National Bank of Romania

ATM (Bancomat)
ATM machines are available at main banks and at airports and shopping centres. Do not expect to find ATMs in remote areas or villages.

Romania information

Credit cards
Major credit cards including American Express, Mastercard and Visa are accepted in large hotels, car rental companies and stores in the main cities. However, credit cards are unlikely to prove useful in small towns or away from tourist areas.

Travelers' Checks
Preferably in US dollars or Euros, Travelers' Checks can be cashed in large banks, some hotels and selected exchange offices but most of them charge considerable commissions. Do not count on cashing such checks outside Bucharest and a few other major cities. For travel around the country it is a good idea to carry cash. Small stores and restaurants might accept U.S. Dollars in small denominations ($ 1, 5, 10 and 20) but the exchange rate offered will not be the best. Street handicraft vendors prefer Romanian currency.

Romania Information

Budget Guide

Entrance fees to historic buildings and attractions are rarely more than $5.00.

Hotels outside Bucharest range from $65 to $120 per night/double room, with full breakfast and taxes included.

A three-course dinner, for two, with wine and tip starts at $35.00 and can go up to $200.00 or more in some of the more upscale restaurants in Bucharest. However, less expensive does not mean not as good as a very expensive one. Dinner in restaurants is often accompanied by live music.

Below are some price samples:
Product/service Price - lei
(U.S. $ equivalent)*
Foods & Drinks
Loaf of white bread
(one lb.) $ 0.30
Quart of milk $ 1.4
One lb of beef tenderloin $ 3.50
One lb of tomatoes $ 2
McDonald's Big Mac $ 3.5
Bottle of mineral water
(18 fl.oz.) $ 0.8
Bottle of domestic beer
(18 fl.oz.) $ 1.4
Bottle of Romanian wine
(liquor store) $ 4.00 to $ 8.50
Transportation
Bus ticket - Bucharest
(one trip) $ 0.6
Subway ticket - Bucharest
(round trip) $ 1
Train ticket Bucharest to Brasov
(express train, 1st class) $ 16.50
Train ticket Bucharest to Constanta
(express train, 1st class) $ 18.50
Train ticket Bucharest to Cluj
(express train, 1st class) $ 24.00
One gallon of gasoline
(3.8 liters) $ 6.3
Entertainment & Communication
Best opera/ theatre seat $ 25.00 or less
Use of computer at Internet Cafe $ 1.8 / hour

Romania information

Note: Although some stores, merchants or taxi drivers may accept payments in $ U.S. or other freely convertible currencies the National Bank of Romania regulations stipulate that payments for goods and services purchased in Romania should be made with Romanian money ( LEI ).

Note: Prices in luxury hotels and upscale restaurants in Bucharest can be as high as those in Western Europe.

Good to Know

General emergency phone number: 112

Emergency Contacts in Bucharest

US Embassy (021) 210 40 42
Embassy of Canada (021) 222 98 45
Embassy of the United Kingdom (021) 312 03 03
Embassy of Australia (021) 320 98 02
Embassy of New Zeeland in Vienna (0043 1) 318 8505


For a listing of diplomatic offices in Romania please visit:
www.mae.ro or www.embassyworld.com

Romania information

Health

No immunizations or unusual health precautions are necessary. Romania has no infectious risks and there are no poisonous insects. There is no malaria in Romania. During the summer months there are mosquitoes in the Danube Delta and some low-lying regions. For your comfort take some mosquito repellent when traveling during summer season. Tap water is safe to drink but if you are in doubt buy bottled water. Romania is home to more that 1/3 of the natural mineral springs in Europe. Bottled water is inexpensive and widely available. Some Romanian bottled water is rated the best in the world for purity and taste and is exported to many foreign countries. Naturally, we hope that you will never need to use any medical facilities. However, Romania has good medical facilities and Romanian doctors are known for their high standard of medical education.

Official Travel and Tourist Information

Disabled visitors

Access for people with disabilities to Romania's tourist attractions has improved in recent years, and it remains a priority. However, it is advisable to check with all service providers prior to your visit, ensuring that they are able to meet your particular needs. Advance notice and reservations will also help ensure that you receive the best possible assistance.

Electricity

Electrical current is 220 V; 50 cycles.
Outlets take plugs with two round prongs. A plug & power adapter is necessary for most appliances requiring 110 V.

Official Travel and Tourist Information

Travel with Pets

* Documents needed to take your pet into Romania include a Veterinary Health Certificate and a proof of rabies vaccination, not older than six months. Translation of documents is not needed if they are in English, French or German.

* There are no specific customs regarding pets.

* Pets are allowed on trains and buses. However, large dogs must wear a muzzle.

* Each hotel or restaurant has its own pet policy. In general pets are allowed in hotels and restaurants. Hotels usually charge a little bit extra for guests bringing their pets.

* Romanians love pets and please don't be surprised or offended if someone you don't know tries to pet your dog or cat without asking permission.

While in Romania: hotels bus, train, car rental. Tips for Travelers.

Smoking
It sometimes looks like almost every adult in Romania smokes. Unfortunately, some of those who do smoke have little consciousness of non-smokers' rights.
The Romanian Government recently approved legislation that bans smoking in every public place but as in many countries in Eastern Europe smokers have little respect for non-smokers and for smoking laws.
Currently smoking is not allowed on planes, on buses and on some trains. Luxury hotels have designated no-smoking floors but very few restaurants have no-smoking sections. Smoking is prohibited in all public places including hospitals, concert halls, and theatres.

Restrooms
There are no too many public restrooms so your best bet might be large hotels, department stores or fast-food restaurants. Use of some public rest rooms may be subject to a small fee. Some public facilities in crowded areas, including those in trains and train stations, occasionally run out of toilet paper or might not be cleaned often enough. Carrying a packet of tissues with you is always a good idea. Restrooms signs will indicate "Femei" (for women) or "Barbati" (for men). More information on restrooms at



While in Romania

Domestic Transport | Communications | Cuisine & Drinks |
Restaurant Tips | Customs & Etiquette | Measures |
Rules of the Road| Safety | Business hours | Tipping |
Sales Tax / Tax Refund |

Domestic Transportation

Getting around Romania is easy and inexpensive.

Bus
Most cities offer efficient and very inexpensive bus, trolleybus or tram transportation. There are several bus companies that offer fast and inexpensive connections between Romania's main cities. Inter-City bus stations are usually next to the train station and most buses have a stop in the centre of the city. Bus or taxi might be the only choice when choosing to explore some remote areas.

Car rental
Car is the best way to visit Romania as this allows visitors to admire the unique scenery and take advantage of the innumerable photo opportunities that they will encounter even during short drives. A hired car will save you a lot of time when visiting some remote attractions as the Painted Monasteries in Bucovina and the traditional villages in Maramures. Most major international auto rental companies and several local companies offer cars in the major cities and airports. Renters must be over 21 and have a valid driver's licence and an internationally valid credit card. Romania's major roads are safe and well maintained. As they pass through main cities and towns gas stations, food stores and hotels are easy to find. Road congestion is not an issue in Romania except in Bucharest. The Romanian Automobile Association (ACR or "Automobil Clubul Roman") offers 24 hour roadside assistance. Call: (01) 222 22 22 or (01) 222 15 52.

Domestic flights
There are several scheduled domestic flights connecting cities within Romania which are operated by CarpatAir and Tarom.
CarpatAir has hubs in Timisoara and Cluj.
Tarom operates domestic flights between Bucharest and several cities in Romania.
For more information on domestic flight schedules, please visit:
CarpatAir
Tarom

Train
Romania has a well-developed railway network that covers virtually the whole country. Trains are the most popular means of getting around Romania. They are amazingly inexpensive and generally on time. Three different services are offered. The cheapest and slowest are Local Trains (Personal). The next fastest and more expensive are Express Trains (Accelerat and Rapid) that require a seat reservation along with the ticket. The fastest and the most expensive are Inter-City Trains (Inter City). The last two types of trains have dining cars and sleepers (overnight or long distance trains only). For train enthusiasts there are nine steam trains, dating from the 1920s and '30s, some of which have been restored to provide a luxury travel experience. Organizations as well as Individuals can rent steam trains. For information on train schedules and fares please visit www.infofer.ro.

Map of Romania's Railways Network

Taxi
Taxis are available in every city and larger towns in Romania. They can be summoned by telephone or hailed on the street. Authorized taxis can be recognized by the TAXI sign on the roof. All Taxis should be equipped with metres. Calling a taxi company is always a good idea. Drivers approaching you at the airport or at the train station in Bucharest are likely to inflate their rates; please avoid them. For longer trips outside the city limits it is possible to agree on the fee before getting in. In most cases using a taxi for such trips is affordable and very convenient.

Taxi tariffs vary from city to city:
upon entry $ 0.5 - $ 1.2 / mile
trips within city limits $ 0.8 - $ 2 / mile
trips outside city limits $ 1.2 - $ 2 / mile
slow traffic or waiting time $ 0.1 - $ 0.3 / minute


Public Transportation

Communications

Telephone:
International direct dialing service is available throughout Romania. Most public telephones require the use of a calling/ telephone card. It is very easy to rent or buy a cellular telephone in Romania.

Dialing within Romania:
0 + three digit area code + six digit telephone #
when dialing anywhere in the countryside or
0 + 21 + seven digit telephone # or 0 + 31 + seven digit telephone #
when dialing a number Bucharest.
Three digit telephone numbers are local toll-free numbers for emergencies or businesses.

International dialing from Romania:
00 + country code + area code + telephone #

Dialing from a foreign country directly to Bucharest:
International Access Code +40 (country code) + 21 + seven digit telephone #

Dialing from a foreign country directly to any other city in Romania:
International Access Code + 40 (country code) + three digit area code + six digit phone #

Romania has several Internet access providers offering advanced services such as Internet messaging via mobile telephone, Internet paging, international roaming and more. A number of Internet retail outlets and cyber-cafes in almost every town offer convenient Internet access. An increasing number of hotels offer data ports with high-speed modem connections for guests to access the Internet and retrieve e-mail in the comfort of their rooms.

Public Transportation

Cuisine & Drinks

"The central characteristic of the Romanian cuisine is its great variety. It is a cuisine influenced by repeated waves of different cultures: the ancient Greeks, with whom Romanians traded; the Romans, who gave the country its name; the Saxons, who settled in southern Transylvania; the Turks, who for centuries dominated Romania; as well as Slavic and Magyar neighbors. All of these influences gradually blended into the varied and delicious Romanian culinary tradition"
Nicolae Klepper — Taste of Romania

The main ingredients used by Romanian chefs are meats such as pork, beef and lamb, fish, vegetables, dairy products and fruit. A traditional Romanian meal may include:
Appetizer
All kinds of cheeses, cold cuts and vegetable spreads.
Soup
"Ciorba de perisoare" (meatball soup), "ciorba taraneasca" (vegetable soup, with or withour meat), "ciorba de burta" (tripe soup).
Fish
"Saramura" (grilled carp in brine), "nisetru la gratar" (grilled Black Sea sturgeon) or "scrumbie la gratar" (grilled herring).
Entree
"Tocanita" or "tochitura" (meat stew seasoned with onions and/ or spices), "ghiveci" (over 20 vegetables cooked in oil), "sarmale" (pickled cabbage leaves stuffed with a mix of minced meats, rice and spices) and "mititei" (The "Wee Ones" — small skinless grilled sausages) are among the favorites.
Romanians produce great pickled vegetables, called "muraturi" (red peppers, green tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots, red cabbage, cauliflower).
Dessert
"Papanasi" (cottage cheese donuts, topped with sour cream and fruit preserve), "clatite cu branza" (crepes filled with cottage cheese, raisins and spices) and "cozonac" (traditional holiday sweet bread filled with walnuts, poppy seeds or cream cheese).

A traditional drink enjoyed with appetizers is "tuica" (a potent plum brandy) which varies in strength, dryness and bouquet according to the production area.

Romania produces excellent wines, some of which are exported all over the world. Romanian beers are excellent as well.

In recent years foreign chefs have come with fresh ideas and introduced a variety of delicious cuisines from around the world: French, Italian, Chinese, Indian and Japanese are offered, to name a few.

Public Transportation

Restaurant tips
"…I go to the butcher in the morning and buy steaks by the yard," mused Constantin Brancusi the world-famous Romanian sculptor. Romanians love meat, so grilled or spit-roasted pork, chicken or beef are in great demand, served with potatoes and fresh vegetables.

* Restaurants in small towns are usually social places where people go to have drinks and discuss politics or business. Meat might be unavoidable in such restaurants and menus are usually based on pork, beef or chicken. In small towns locals do not usually eat in restaurants because, traditionally, Romanian women cook almost every day. Homemade dishes are a world apart, so if invited to have lunch or dinner with a Romanian family, do not miss the opportunity.

* As in most countries independent restaurants tend to be better than hotel restaurants so do not hesitate to visit smaller, privately owned restaurants.

* In some regions of Romania, and especially in Transylvania, some dishes may be prepared with more fat than you might usually use.

* Instead of having a heavy (meat) dish for lunch, try some delicious Romanian cheese and vegetables, especially during the warm summers.

* Salads are usually a side order, which comes with most entrees, especially steaks.

* Prices listed on restaurant menus are per serving and include all taxes and service charge. However, some restaurants might post prices per 50 g or 100 g (1.75oz. or 3.5 oz.) while the actual serving can be up to 300 grams (12 oz.). If not stated clearly on the menu, check with the waiter and make sure that you are specific when you order. A few waiters may try to charge unsuspecting customers extra, claiming that the serving quantity was twice the quantity listed on the menu.

* Typically, each food item (except bread) is ordered (and charged for) individually, right down to the butter. If you don't want bread, say so or it will be brought to your table and added to your bill.

* Most restaurants only serve wine by the bottle. When serving the wine the waiter will usually ask you if you would like a little bit of sparkling mineral water to be added to your wine. Wine mixed with mineral water ("sprit") is very popular during summer. Hot wine — with sugar and cinnamon — ("vin fiert") is "the recommended drink" for cold winter days. For something stronger try hot plum brandy ("tuica fiarta") — hot plum brandy with sugar and peppercorn.

* Your glass of water or soft drink will not be served with ice unless specifically requested.

* Restaurants do not usually have a non-smoking section.


Public Transportation

Customs & Etiquette

Romanians are friendly and open and foreigners are usually made very welcome. Chatting with visitors is very common for Romanians and they will find a way to communicate with you even if they cannot speak your language.

* Older people particularly appreciate old-fashioned politeness. It is respectful to use Mrs. or Mr. when using the name of a person that you just meet.

* Handshaking is the most common form of greeting. When a Romanian man is introduced to a woman, he will probably kiss her hand, strictly avoiding her eyes.

* If one refuses what a host offers to eat or drink, this will often be taken as a polite refusal by guest who really means to say "yes." If you want to refuse the offer find a polite excuse and say it firmly or ask for a replacement.

* It is common to linger once the meal (luch or dinner) is over.

* When visiting someone at home bring a small gift. Most common gifts include flowers or chocolate (for women only), a bottle of wine or liquor. The number of flowers that one offers must always be odd. Other well-appreciate gifts include Western cosmetics (i.e. eau de toilette or after-shave) and clothing.

* All gifts should be wrapped, but many Romanians might not unwrap their gifts in your presence.

* In Romania as in many Latin countries life is lived at a more relaxed pace. Normal European courtesies should be followed on social occasions. Although casual dress is fine in most occasions, wearing a suit and tie, or the women's equivalent, is important at business meetings. Appointments are necessary and punctuality is expected.

* It is not considered impolite to ask a person's age, politics, income or religion, so don't take such questions amiss.

Official Travel and Tourist Information

Measures

Romania uses the metric system of weights and measures. Speed and distance are measured in kilometres; goods in kilograms and litres; temperatures in Celsius - Centigrade.

Length conversion
1 centimetre = 0.4 inches
1 inch = 2.54 cm
1 metre = 3.3 feet = 1.1 yards = 100 centimetres
1 foot = 0.3 metres
1 kilometre = 0.62 miles = 1,000 metres
1 mile = 1.61 km

Weight & Volume conversion
100 grams = 3.5 oz
1 oz = 28.35 grams
1 kilogram = 2.2 lbs = 1,000 grams
1 lb = 454 grams
100 millilitres = 3.4 fl.oz
1 fl. oz. = 28.4 millilitres
1 liter = 1/4 gallon = 1,000 millilitres
1 gallon = 3.78 litres

Temperature conversion °C to °F
(°C multiply by 9, divide by 5, and add 32 or
double °C and add 30)
°C -18 -12 -7 0 4 10 16 21 27 32 38
°F 0 10 20 32 40 50 60 70 80 90 100

Speed conversion
Kilometres divided by 1.6 = miles
KmPH 10 30 50 60 80 90 110
MPH 6 21 31 39 50 56 70

Official Travel and Tourist Information

Rules of the Road

* Minimum driving age is 18.

* U.S. and Canadian driver's licences are valid for driving in Romania.

* Driving is on the right side of the road.

* Passengers in the front seat of a car must wear seatbelts at all times. Children under 12 years of age may not ride in the front seat.

* Speed limits are 50 km/h (31 mph) in build-up areas, 90 km/h (56 mph) on main roads and 110 km/h (70 mph) on highway, unless posted otherwise.

* Pedestrians have priority at all times at crossings without traffic lights.

* Bring your car to a full stop at railway crossings without traffic lights.

* Unless otherwise indicated (stop or yield sign) traffic coming from the right has the right of the way.

* The use of cellular phones while driving is not allowed.

* Driving while under the influence of alcohol is a criminal offense and penalties are severe. Blood alcohol level should be 0.00 o/oo while driving. We strongly advise you not to drink and drive.

* In case of a car accident call the police and make sure that you get a copy of the Police Report.

Traffic Fines

Most visitors who encounter Romanian Traffic Police officers believe that they are nice and friendly. In case that you will have to deal with Traffic Police please remember the following:

* Traffic officers cannot collect fines on the spot. All fine payments must be made at a bank or local tax administration office. The officer will only write the ticket and will give instructions on how to pay/ dispute the fine.

* Traffic laws indicate a minimum and a maximum fine for each traffic violation. The police officer has the authority to decide the fine amount, based on circumstances. However, if you decide to pay the fine within three days from the date when the ticket was issued you will only have to pay half of the minimum amount indicated by law.

* Fines are not differentiated based on income or citizenship.

* Officers and judges have leeway in determining/ canceling traffic fines.

While in Romania: hotels bus, train, car rental. Tips for Travelers.

Safety

Although violent crime against tourists is almost non-existent visitors should take customary steps to safeguard their valuables. Leave your valuables and passport in the hotel's safety deposit box or use a money belt kept out of sight. Be aware of pickpockets and scam artists in major cities.

Do not attempt to exchange money on the street; you will likely be short-changed or receive a pile of worthless bills. Beware of con men masquerading as plainclothes police; they may pretend to check your papers or accuse you of exchanging currency on the black market. In fact they might try to steal your cash. Real plainclothes police officers might only ask to check personal documents but never your credit cards or your cash. Not having your passport with you will not be a problem. The officer will come with you to your hotel to see your passport if he really has to check it.

While in Romania: hotels bus, train, car rental. Tips for Travelers.

Business Hours
Banks: are usually open 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, Monday through Friday.
Shopping: Special purchases include embroideries, ceramics, pottery, porcelain, crystal, glassware, silverware, carpets, rugs, fabrics, wool jumpers, woodcarvings, glass paintings and more. Antiques ("Antichitati") and Consigned Goods stores ("Consignatia") deserve shoppers' attention. Normal shopping hours are 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

While in Romania: hotels bus, train, car rental. Tips for Travelers.

Tips on Tipping
Taxi drivers do not expect tips but courteous service can be rewarded.
Hotel maid - the equivalent of $1.50 / day (4 Lei) or $10.00 (25 Lei) for one week or longer stays.
Hotel Concierge - tipping for the answer to a simple question is not necessary but 10 Lei ($4.00) to 15 Lei ($6.00) is suitable for help making reservations or getting tickets to a show.
Restaurants - although service is included a 5% to 10% tip will be appreciated.
Appropriate gratuities for Hairdressers and/ or Massage Terrapist are 10% to 15%.
Bellhop or Skycap - 2 Lei ($0.75) a bag.
Parking valet - 3 Lei ($1.00).

While in Romania: hotels bus, train, car rental. Tips for Travelers.

Sales tax for goods and services:
VAT / Value Added Tax (or in Romanian: T V A - Taxa pe Valoare Adaugata )

A sales tax (TVA) of 19 % is added to all retail sales, hotel stays and meals served in restaurants. It is usually included in the prices posted in stores, hotels and restaurants.
Like in many countries hotels charge an additional tax (0.5% to 5% depending on the class of hotel).

AT Refund
VAT refund offices (Birou de Restituire TVA) can be found at any Romanian border crossing point.

To claim you Sales Tax Refund please make sure that:
1. Your purchases were made at a store which can issue a legal invoice/ receipt (factura fiscala) as well as a tax refund form (formular de restituire TVA),
2. The total value of your purchases is higher than 250 Lei (approx. $100 US),
3. Your purchases were made 90 days or less before your date of departure from Romania,
4. You have the original receipts and store identified VAT Refund forms validated by the Customs Office (Birou Vamal).
All refunds will be made in Romanian currency "Lei".

Restaurants in Cluj good place to eat and enjoy

HUBERTUS
Cluj-Napoca
Strada 21 Decembrie 1989, nr.22(+40) 0264 596 743

METEOR
Cluj-Napoca
Bulevardul Eroilor, nr.29(+40) 0264 591 060 A place with planty of food to serve and really cheap specily for young travelers.

CIULEANDRA
Cluj-Napoca
Strada Septimiu Albini, nr.10(+40) 0264 414 021
Official Website[www.bestwesterntopaz.ro]
A traditional restaurant spcecific romanian traditional folk music every day from Monday to Friday.


VALAHIA
Cluj-Napoca
Strada Govora 54B(+40) 0264 409 384
Hours: 11.00 - 23.00 A traditional romanian food.

Pizza Places in Cluj


PIZZA HUT
Cluj-Napoca
METRO(+40) 0264 598 530
Hours: Monday to Saturday: 10.00-22.00, Sunday?: 10.00-18.00

PIZZA ROSA
Cluj-Napoca
Sora Shopping Center(+40) 0264 439 448 Enjoy a good pizza in the hear of Cluj.



PIZZA SPAGHETTI REX
Cluj-Napoca
str. Bolyai 9(+40) 0264 596 430



DOLCE VITA
Cluj-Napoca
Strada Piezisa, nr.24(+40) 0264 590 141
Hours: 11.00 - 01.00

Hotel Agape
Cluj-Napoca, Str. Iuliu Maniu nr. 6
Tel.+40264-406523, +40723-322493
www.hotelagape.ro

Hotel Best Western Topaz
Cluj-Napoca, Str. Septimiu Albini 10, cod 400457
Tel/Fax:+40264-414021
www.bestwesterntopaz.ro

Hotel Capitolina
Cluj-Napoca, str. Victor Babes nr.35
Tel/Fax:+40264-450490 ,+40264-450 497
www.hotel-capitolina.ro


Hotel City Plaza
Cluj-Napoca, Str. Sindicatelor nr. 9-11
Tel.+40-264-450101
www.cityhotels.ro


Hotel Restaurant Confort
Cluj-Napoca, Str. Calea Turzii nr. 48
Tel.+40-264-598410
www.hotelconfort.ro

Hotel Olimp
Cluj-Napoca
Tel. +40264-59.59.00, +40740-11.66.99, +40722-11.66.99
www.hotel-olimp.ro


Complex hotelier Onix
Cluj-Napoca, Str. Septimiu Albini nr. 12
Tel.+40264-414076,+40264-414655
www.hotelonix.ro

Complex Hotelier Rimini
Cluj-Napoca, Str. Cometei nr. 20A
Tel.+40264-438385
www.rimini.ro

Hotel Stil
Cluj-Napoca, Str. Drumul Salicii nr. 5B
Tel+40264-438171
www.hotelstil.com

Vila Residence
Cluj-Napoca, Str. Constantin Brancusi nr. 117
Tel.+40264-403317
www.vilaresidence.ro

Pensiunea DEJA VU 5 *****
str.Ion Ghica nr. 2
tel/fax +40264 354939, +40264-354940

http://www.hotelpedro.ro/Cazare.htmlTel/Fax: 0264-.433083
Tel: 0364-105131
Mobil: 0723-390595
E-mail: petrutaionel@yahoo.com