Craiova is gaining more and more ground on the tourist map and is starting to be preferred for weekend getaways, both by Romanians and tourists from abroad. A simple walk through the pedestrian center shows how popular the city has become, where foreign languages are heard everywhere.
Many visitors choose Craiova for city-breaks, attracted by the well-known events, but also by the cultural offer, local gastronomy and nightlife. The Christmas and Easter markets have become important attractions, helping to increase the number of tourists.
“Those from Romania come from Bucharest, Timişoara, Cluj and Iasi, and those from outside, usually from areas where there are a lot of flights and there are large communities of Romanians, Italy, Spain, Great Britain and Germany”said Irina Burnariu, travel agent, for observernews.ro.
More and more foreign tourists choose Craiova
The city also attracts tourists from Greece, especially thanks to direct flights. Many of them choose to spend a weekend in Craiova, arriving on Saturday morning and leaving on Sunday evening.
“It’s a nice city, very cheap for us tourists. We have some people in Greece, Romanians, who told us that this city is good for a weekend trip”says a tourist.
“I’m in Romania for the first time, in Craiova. I haven’t really heard much about the city, but it’s wonderful. We’re looking for somewhere to go to eat, only traditional food”, adds another visitor.
“Today we will take a walk in the Romanescu park and, if we have time, I would also like to visit one of the museums, the anthropological one I think. At night we will go out for a beer”the tourists say.
In the Romanescu Park, where the Easter Fair is to be opened, you can also meet Bulgarian tourists who came especially to visit the city.
Attractions and atmosphere that captivate visitors
Beyond the fairs, Craiova attracts tourists with safety, cleanliness and the diversity of culinary offers.
“It is a safe city, a clean city, even if we move away from the central area, we will find cleanliness and welcoming people, with authentic Olten food, restaurants with Romanian specifics, but also other cuisines”, explained Bogdan Marica, tourist guide.
Among the sights that should not be missed are the historic buildings in the old center, but also the Jean Mihail Palace, which houses the Art Museum. Over 1,200 Romanian and international works of art are exhibited here, including works signed by Constantin Brâncuși.
The growing interest in Craiova is also reflected in local tourism. During busy periods, hotel occupancy frequently exceeds 80%, and the number of visitors is constantly increasing.
