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Get InspiredEuropeRomaniaDoljCraiova

Craiova

Dolj, Romania
City·Historical, Bustling, Commercial
Craiova
Photo by Elena Florescu from Google Places
Craiova
Photo by Evtim Ivanov from Google Places
Craiova
Photo by Liliana-Simona Patrichi from Google Places
Craiova
Photo by Geany Dell from Google Places
Craiova
Photo by Ketty B from Google Places
Craiova
Photo by Elena Florescu from Google Places
Craiova
Photo by Evtim Ivanov from Google Places
Craiova
Photo by Liliana-Simona Patrichi from Google Places
Craiova
Photo by Geany Dell from Google Places
Craiova
Photo by Ketty B from Google Places

Craiova, the capital of Dolj County, is the largest city in southwestern Romania. It serves as a major commercial center west of Bucharest, offering a dynamic blend of historical and modern attractions. The city is strategically located near the river Jiu, with the Southern Carpathians to the north and the River Danube to the south. Despite historical challenges such as earthquakes and invasions, Craiova has thrived as a regional trading hub. Visitors can explore its rich political history and vibrant commercial life, making it a key destination in the Oltenia region.

Craiova, the capital of Dolj County, is the largest city in southwestern Romania. It serves as a major commercial center west of Bucharest, offering a dynamic blend of historical and modern attractions. The city is strategically located near the river Jiu, with the Southern Carpathians to the north and the River Danube to the south. Despite historical challenges such as earthquakes and invasions, Craiova has thrived as a regional trading hub. Visitors can explore its rich political history and vibrant commercial life, making it a key destination in the Oltenia region.

Highlights

  • Largest city in southwestern Romania.

  • Capital of Dolj County.

  • Key commercial hub west of Bucharest.

  • Rich historical and political significance.

  • Proximity to Southern Carpathians and River Danube.

Before you go: Craiova essentials

  • Close access to the Southern Carpathians for nature enthusiasts.

  • Rich cultural heritage with several museums and historical sites.

  • A key commercial hub, ideal for business travelers.

Getting Around

Craiova has a reliable public transportation system including buses and trams.

Local Cuisine

Try local Romanian dishes at the city's many traditional restaurants.

Best For

Exploring Romania's historical and commercial heart.

Currency

RON lei

Average Cost

$60-$120 p/day

Population

234,140

Historical Sites

Visit the historical sites and museums to learn about Craiova's rich past.

Shopping

Explore the local markets and shops for unique Romanian products.

Languages Spoken

Romanian, English

Occasion Tags

Historical Exploration, Business Travel, Cultural Visit

Best time to visit Craiova

April-JuneSeptember-November

Best Season

Spring

Spring is mild and ideal for exploring the city's parks and historical sites.

Best Season

Summer

Summers can be warm, perfect for enjoying outdoor cafes and events.

Best Season

Fall

Fall offers pleasant weather and fewer tourists, great for sightseeing.

Winter

Winters are cold, but the city's cultural venues provide indoor attractions.

Add dates for experiences

Location

Craiova, Dolj, Romania
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Food & drink in Craiova

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Restaurant Olivé

4.6(869 reviews)
Craiova, Județul Dolj
Cozy, Professional, Polished
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Taverna Racilor Craiova

4.8(3,8 K reviews)
Craiova, Județul Dolj
Lively, Casual, Mall Based
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Craft

4.6(1,8 K reviews)
Craiova, Județul Dolj
Modern, Lively, Buzzy
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Padella1895

4.5(800 reviews)
Craiova, Județul Dolj
Sophisticated, Cozy, Polished
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Artizan35

4.6(726 reviews)
Craiova, Județul Dolj
Vintage, Smooth, Stylish
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Pho Chanh

4.8(570 reviews)
Craiova, Județul Dolj
Stylish, Welcoming, Vibey
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Nolla Brunch

4.9(286 reviews)
Craiova, Județul Dolj
Cozy, Aesthetic, Pleasant
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La Caprese

4.6(494 reviews)
Craiova, Județul Dolj
Casual, Pleasant, Food Focused

Things to do in Craiova

Bucharest to Dracula Castle, Peles Castle and Brasov Guided Tour
From $27

Bucharest to Dracula Castle, Peles Castle and Brasov Guided Tour

4.5(3,1 K reviews)
Duration: 12h
Bucharest
Slănic Salt Mine Day Trip from Bucharest-Guide & Ticket Included
From $52

Slănic Salt Mine Day Trip from Bucharest-Guide & Ticket Included

4.5(165 reviews)
Duration: 7h
Bucharest
Bucharest Private tour to biggest Salt Mine in Eu & Dracula Tomb
From $190

Bucharest Private tour to biggest Salt Mine in Eu & Dracula Tomb

5.0(4 reviews)
Duration: 1h
Bucharest
Official Entry Ticket to Therme Bucharest
From $30

Official Entry Ticket to Therme Bucharest

4.8(6 reviews)
Duration: 12h
Bucharest
Palace of Parliament in Bucharest - fast-track tickets and guide
From $39

Palace of Parliament in Bucharest - fast-track tickets and guide

3.9(473 reviews)
Duration: 1h
Bucharest
Bucharest Half a Day Bike Tour
From $42

Bucharest Half a Day Bike Tour

4.9(342 reviews)
Duration: 3h
Bucharest
The Real tour of Communism
From $32

The Real tour of Communism

5.0(698 reviews)
Duration: 3h
Bucharest
Castles of Transylvania: Private Day Trip from Bucharest
From $148

Castles of Transylvania: Private Day Trip from Bucharest

4.6(259 reviews)
Duration: 12h
Bucharest
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Attractions in Craiova

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Castelul Fermecat

4.4(780 reviews)
Craiova, Județul Dolj
Picturesque, Historic, Quiet
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Zoo Park Craiova

4.5(3,5 K reviews)
Craiova, Județul Dolj
Relaxed, Family Friendly, Simple
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Nicolae Romanescu Park

4.7(19 K reviews)
Craiova, Județul Dolj
Spacious, Relaxing, Picturesque
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Puskin Park

4.4(1,7 K reviews)
Craiova, Județul Dolj
Cozy, Local, Family Friendly
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Oltenia's Museum Of Ethnography

4.7(437 reviews)
Craiova, Județul Dolj
Intimate, Educational, Welcoming
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Oltenia's Museum of History and Archaeology

4.7(901 reviews)
Craiova, Județul Dolj
Educational, Stately, Quiet
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Craiova's Old Town

4.7(2,9 K reviews)
Craiova, Județul Dolj
Charming, Festive, Lively
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Musical Fountain

4.2(1,1 K reviews)
Craiova, Județul Dolj
Quiet, Central, Relaxed