Exploring a new city often requires some preparation, and not just in terms of transportation and packing. Are you planning to visit Oradea and want to organize your trip accordingly? If you only have a weekend and want to make the most of it, we’ve got some suggestions to help you create lasting memories:
Saturday
A good day starts with a good coffee. Begin your morning at Street Coffee Roasters, located in Piața 1 Decembrie. Once energized, head to your first destination: Ullman Palace, a symbolic monument of Oradea’s Jewish community.
Just four minutes away, you’ll find another architectural gem: Fuchs Palace, the first Art Nouveau building in the city. Continue to the Sion Synagogue, a Moorish-style building dating back to 1878. As you walk along Independenței Street, you’ll spot one of the most beautiful buildings in the city: the Black Eagle Palace. Built between 1907-1908, this Secession-style structure is a must-see. You’ll also admire the Town Hall, the Greek-Catholic Episcopal Palace, and the Kovacs House. Make sure to climb the Town Hall Tower for an unbeatable panoramic view of the city. Walk through the Black Eagle Passage and along Vasile Alecsandri Street, where you’ll reach another unique European location: the Church of the Moon or Cathedral of the Dormition of the Mother of God.
Next up is a must-see spot for your mini-vacation: Oradea Fortress, an iconic location. Visit the fortress museum to travel back in time and learn about the city’s history.
Afterward, head to Calea Republicii, a pedestrian street perfect for a well-deserved break. You’ll find numerous restaurants and terraces to quench your thirst and relax after your sightseeing tour.
For dinner, we recommend Rivo, a riverside restaurant. Its elegant design, diverse menu, and drink selection perfectly complement the dishes served here, ensuring you end your day just as nicely as you started it.
Sunday
Start your morning at Tucano Coffee Dominicana, a friendly spot with delicious coffee. After recharging, we suggest visiting a vibrant place home to over 150 species of animals – the Oradea Zoo. Surrounded by greenery, the zoo is a beautiful, relaxing spot. Here, you’ll see tigers, llamas, deer, peacocks, and parrots. It’s a must-visit for children, and a peaceful retreat for adults. A special treat for the little ones is the chance to ride ponies for 15 lei per 10 minutes. The zoo is located at Matei Basarab Street, No. 1.
Visiting Hours:
- April to August – Daily: 09:00 – 19:00
- September to October – Daily: 09:00 – 18:00
- November to March – Daily: 09:00 – 17:00
Ticket Prices:
- Adults: 18 lei
- Students, seniors: 9 lei
If the zoo isn’t your cup of tea, you could opt for a fun and relaxing experience at Nymphaea Aquapark, where you’ll find everything you need: outdoor/indoor slides, pools, jacuzzis, a spa, and massages. Spanning 7 hectares, the aquapark is located at Aleea Ștrandului 13B. Check their website for schedules and prices.
As the evening approaches, head to Ciuperca Hill, the perfect place to take in the full panorama of the city. Multiple viewpoints allow you to peacefully enjoy the sunset. We suggest having dinner at the Ciuperca Restaurant, where you’ll find a variety of traditional and international dishes. And since you’ve made it all the way here, why not try some authentic local cuisine before you leave?
Oradea doesn’t just come alive during the day. If you’re in the mood for nightlife, the city offers plenty of options for a fun night out. Crown, Black Eagle, and Edison are a few pubs to consider, while ReWine is a great spot for enjoying a fine glass of wine.
We hope your brief visit has sparked an interest in Oradea, and that you’ll return for a longer stay in the future—or maybe even explore another city in Romania!