Bistrița

Romania, Europe

Bistrița is a charming town in Romania, known for its rich history and vibrant culture. Nestled at the foothills of the Eastern Carpathians, visitors can explore the stunning neo-Gothic Bistrița Church, the lively historical center filled with cafes and boutiques, and the impressive Castle of Sângeorz-Băi nearby. The town also hosts various festivals throughout the year, making it an appealing destination for those seeking authentic local experiences.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-4 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Someseni

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

12 Best Things to Do in Bistrița

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Bistrița Monastery

Visit this serene 14th-century monastery for spiritual peace.

No booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll through the Central Park

Relax in the city's green heart, perfect for unwinding.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Bistrița Museum

Discover local history, art, and culture in one place.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste local wines at Bistrița Wine Cellars

Enjoy a wine tasting experience at renowned cellars.

Booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Bistrița Fortress

Walk through the ancient walls of this historic fortress.

No booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Enjoy the local cuisine at a traditional restaurant

Savor Romanian dishes in a cozy, authentic setting.

No booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend the Bistrița Christmas Market

Experience the festive atmosphere and local crafts.

No booking required
8

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Hike in the nearby Rodna Mountains

Explore stunning landscapes and trails in nature.

No booking required
9

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover the local arts at Bistrița Art Gallery

Admire contemporary and traditional Romanian artworks.

No booking required
10

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Evangelical Church

Marvel at the architecture of this iconic church.

No booking required
11

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Participate in the Bistrița International Festival

Join vibrant cultural performances and activities.

No booking required
12

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Shop at Bistrița's local markets

Find unique local products and handmade crafts.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

High

LGBTQ+ safety score

-3 (#70 globally)

Cost

Standard

Currency

Romanian Leu

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Romanian

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Cabbage Rolls (Sarmale)

Stuffed cabbage rolls with meat and rice. (National dish)

Mici

Grilled minced meat rolls, spiced and juicy.

Mămăligă

V

Cornmeal porridge, often served with cheese.

Ciorbă de Burtă

Tripe soup with sour cream and spices.

Papanasi

V

Sweet cheese dumplings, often served with sour cream.

Phrases to learn

English

Romanian

Hello

Salut

(Sah-loot)

Yes/No

Da / Nu

(Dah / Noo)

Thank you

Mulțumesc

(Mool-tsu-mesk)

Excuse me

Scuzați-mă

(Skoo-zahts-mah)

How much?

Cât costă?

(Cut koh-stah)