Cluj-Napoca, located on the Someș River, is the third-largest city in Romania and one of the most visited places in the country. It overflows with history, art, and life. And in its streets, there is no room for boredom. Colorful and welcoming, it also stands out for the harmony of its oldest elements combined with the most contemporary ones. Want to discover it for yourself? Then keep reading and find out all our reasons to visit the heart of Transylvania.
1. History and Culture
Did you know that Cluj was once nicknamed the ‘treasure city’? It had nothing to do with the place being paved in gold or silver, but rather with the immense wealth that the city’s artisans accumulated.
As we’ve already mentioned, Cluj-Napoca is full of history and culture. If you plan to uncover all its secrets, you will do so with ease. Evidence of this can be found in the numerous monuments and buildings where the passage of time is evident, yet they continue to await hundreds of curious visitors each day.
The diversity of the city is incredible. And we’re not just talking about its architectural emblems. In addition to high doses of history, in Cluj you can experience firsthand the evolution of Transylvania over the centuries. We assure you that you won’t regret traveling here!
2. The Harmonious Blend of the Old and the New
The historical and medieval air of Cluj Napoca will always be present during your trip. It’s inevitable, considering it emanates from its buildings and monuments. But just as in other parts of Romania, the magic of all this lies in its combination with elements representing the more contemporary Cluj.
As a ‘university city,’ this heart of Transylvania is always lively. Often, it is the students themselves who create unique ideas. At the same time, these initiatives coexist with others that could earn Cluj the title of Smart City, a demonstration that Cluj is continuously striving for development.
3. The Friendliest City in Europe
According to a survey conducted by the Daily Mail in 75 European cities, Cluj-Napoca has emerged as the friendliest city for foreigners. Up to 91% of its citizens believe that the presence of tourism is positive and helps the city’s development. This fact doesn’t surprise us, considering that the Clujans are very open, calm people (in Romanian, they are described as ‘molcomi’, which is something like ‘very patient’) and always ready to lend a hand to those in need.
As soon as you step into the streets of Cluj, you’ll feel its warm and polite welcome. As the Transylvanians would say (albeit very slowly) “No, hai la Cluj!” (Well, come to Cluj then!).
4. The Food
Transylvanian cuisine is a marvel: tasty, diverse, aromatic, and rich in spices. It’s another strong reason to visit the area!
Cluj’s ‘culinary secrets’ are so valuable because they’ve been developed under the influence of various cultures, each leaving its distinctive touch. For instance, when you visit, you can’t leave without trying “varză a Cluj”, a dish very similar to sarmale but with the ingredients arranged differently.
Goulash, plum dumplings, dishes with various types of meat, Romanian cheeses, or salad soup are just a few of the many dishes you shouldn’t miss if you want to say that you’ve truly been to Cluj.
Learn more about Romanian cuisine
5. Events
Cluj never sleeps! You could say that there is no room for inactivity in its streets. An incredible number of different events are organized daily. You can choose from concerts, cultural performances, exhibitions, literary presentations, workshops, and other less conventional events. The choice is yours!
6. Music Festivals
Although they could well be included in the previous reason, these events deserve to be mentioned separately. Annually, Cluj is the epicenter of many festivals that bring together people from all over the country, along with attendees from various corners of Europe.
One of the most popular festivals is Untold, the largest music festival in Romania. For four days, attendees enjoy hours and hours of artists and DJs from around the world, creating a spectacular atmosphere under the slogan“The World Capital of Night and Magic”.
Another great music festival is Electric Castle. This event is organized in a setting straight out of a fairy tale: Banffy Castle in Bonțida. Therefore, you won’t be surprised when we tell you that its atmosphere is somewhat magical, full of a special harmony. The line-up of the festival brings together various artists from rock, reggae, hip-hop, trap, or electronic music.
Jazz in the Park is another annual festival, though this one gathers a rich group of jazz, blues, folk, and classical music artists in Cluj. All of this live, of course.
Also, note the name TIFF (Transilvania International Film Festival), which has become the first international feature film festival in Romania. It serves as a true cultural showcase that even goes beyond the screens: its program includes seminars, workshops, programs dedicated to the film industry, concerts, and art exhibitions.
Did these suggestions seem too few? Then also note in your agenda names like the International Stand Up Comedy Festival, the “Temps d’Images” festival, the Hungarian Culture Days, or the Bookfest. Enjoy them all to fall even more in love with Cluj!