Giurgiu
Sitting on the banks of the Danube River, Giurgiu is a Ro...
Romania is an ancient eastern European country with a wealth of history to its name, not to mention some beautiful natural scenery to experience. It borders several other European countries and indeed, one of these borders is one of the most satisfying ways in which you can experience it, as the Danube River forms much of its border between Romania and Serbia. Many Danube itineraries which start in Hungary’s capital Budapest work their way east following this watery border, through the fabled Iron Gate stone gorge and onto Romania’s celebrated capital, Bucharest by way of the port of Giurgiu.
Giurgiu is the port which serves Romania’s culturally-rewarding capital, Bucharest and many Danube itineraries which venture into Romania offer overnight stays and often extended land packages to enable you to experience more of the city and also explore the Black Sea region. There are some stunning architectural treasures to unearth in Bucharest itself, including one of its oldest churches, the stunning Stavropoleos Church. It’s similar in style to many of Russia’s Orthodox places of worship and boasts a stunning interior.
Whether you’re planning on taking in a performance or not, the Romanian Athenaeum is one of the city’s principal landmarks and is a splendid piece of architecture, inside and out. However, when it comes to landmarks you literally won’t be able to miss, the sprawling Palace of Parliament - always top of the list and is quite simply one of the world’s largest buildings. Don’t expect to have time to explore it all though.
If getting away from the hustle bustle is more you’re thing, then you’ll be pleased to know that Bucharest boasts some beautiful parks and gardens, such as the popular Parcul Alexandru and Cismigiu Gardens, which is particularly beautiful in the spring.
You won’t in fact have to negotiate a giant Iron Gate to be granted passage into Romania during your river cruise, but even if you did it, it would prove no more impressive than this spectacular wonder. This incredible limestone cliff gorge is so narrow that parts of it actually exist in both Romania and neighbouring Serbia, giving you some indication of how much of an imposing site the Iron Gate is. The Romanian side of the gorge is part of the Iron Gates Natural Park and there is some stunning scenery to drink in as well as man-made wonders old as new such as the Tabula Traina Roman plaque which commemorates the completion of the Emperor Trajan’s military road and two dams, completed in 1972 and 1984 respectively.
The Romanian currency is the Leu, though you’ll only need a little of it if you’re in Bucharest for a day or two.
Being one of the more southern European countries, Romania enjoys a particularly warm climate in summer months.
The national language is Romanian, though minority languages include Russian, Ukrainian and German.
Sitting on the banks of the Danube River, Giurgiu is a Romanian city best known for its historical significance, home to landmarks such as the Clock Tower and the Giurgiu Fortress. What's more, Giurgiu acts as a vital transportation hub that connects Romania to Bulgaria via the Danube Bridge, and is also recognised for its agriculture.
As the River Danube flows through the Carpathian Mountains, the breath-taking gorge known as the Iron Gates is formed, creating a natural border between Serbia and Romania. Characterised by steep limestone cliffs towering dramatically over the water, painting a magnificent landscape, this awe-inspiring stretch of the Danube is not only rich in natural beauty but also holds significance culturally and historically, home to archaeological remnants that date back to ancient times. The Iron Gates Dam is also situated within the Iron Gates, one of Europe's largest hydro-electric power stations, only further enhancing the gravity of the geographical marvel.
Bucharest, in southern Romania, is the country's capital and commercial center. Its iconic landmark is the massive, communist-era Palatul Parlamentului government building, which has 1,100 rooms. Nearby, the historic Lipscani district is home to an energetic nightlife scene as well as tiny Eastern Orthodox Stavropoleos Church and 15th-century Curtea Veche Palace, where Prince Vlad III (“The Impaler”) once ruled.
Oltenita is an embodiment of culture and history, situated along the banks of the Danube in Romania. Located the Călărași County, Oltentia is characterised by charm, serenity and tradition, boasting a vibrant community where age-old customs are observed with fervour by the locals. Visitors are immersed in the warmth and hospitality that exudes from the town, exploring enchanting streets rich with timeless allure.
Hârșova, Romania, is a town steeped in history with a strategic location alongside the Danube, making it a significant crossroads throughout the ages with remnants of ancient civilians adorning the landscape. Hârșova's cultural heritage is eloquently showcased through iconic landmarks, notably the stunning bridge that spans the Danube and the Ethnographic Museum, which serves as a powerful representation of the town's significance in history, as well as offering visitors a window into its vibrant past.
Fetești is located in the Ialomița County, Romania, and is a lively town bursting with modern vitality and historical depth. Resting along the banks of the Danube, Fetești acts as a crucial transportation hub that connects various regions of Romania, fostering a rich cultural exchange over the centuries. This blend of influences is evident in the diverse culinary traditions, architecture and bustling markets adorned with local produce.
In the heart of the Danube Delta, Sfântu Gheorghe is a haven of natural beauty and ecological diversity, exuding tranquillity amidst lush greenery and meandering waterways. Named after Saint George, the town is recognised for its stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, marshlands and river channels, with a unique blend of Romanian and Lipovan culture, tradition and folklore woven into daily life.