Contents
Cluj-Napoca Romania – A Short Introduction

This city and the capital of Romania couldn’t be further apart. It’s not just the miles between Cluj-Napoca (better known as just Cluj) and Bucharest that differentiates the historic locations – both offer something new to travelers looking to explore ‘old’ Europe.
But here’s why you should venture into the heart of Transylvania, and visit Cluj first.
In recent years, Cluj has caught up with Bucharest regarding industry. The second most populous city in Romania always had the edge regarding education, with the old schools and universities excelling in I.T. and engineering. But businesses would often settle elsewhere and train the local talent pool.
Times change
Things have changed immeasurably in the last decade or so. Arriving at Cluj Airport, only half an hour away from the center of town, my taxi driver told us he was merely earning some extra money before starting his new job working for one of the major airlines as a pilot. He explained that he’d made the move from Bucharest, something that would have been unheard of a few years ago.

It might seem like an odd place to start, but it’s comforting to hear that Cluj is now also financially competing with other Romanian locations. Of course, that means prices have gone up, but as the taxi ride proved, these increases compare favorably with levels in the region as a whole. In short, you’ll get a lot for your euro, pound, or dollar in Cluj.
With many universities in the city, there’s also a healthy student population. A few bars and clubs have been redesigned to cater to the younger market, and they’ve added to the charm of the city. Seeing the old sit along the new makes any visit feel like an adventure.
The big draw for many to Cluj, is Transylvania, the vast region within which the city sits. You could spend weeks exploring the city alone, so it would be foolhardy to attempt to take on Transylvania in one visit. But if you’re looking for a Dracula experience, you’ll be in for a disappointment. Even the tackiest of souvenir shops won’t be stocking any supernatural paraphernalia.
Cluj-Napoca Ethnographic Park

The National Ethnographic Park “Romulus Vuia” in Cluj-Napoca was founded on June 1, 1929. It holds the distinction of being Romania’s first open-air museum. The visionary behind this cultural treasure was the ethnologist Romulus Vuia. The park was initially established as a section of the Ardeal Museum of Ethnography and was officially recognized by law in 1932.
Unique Features of Romulus Vuia
One sector of the park showcases 18th to 20th-century peasant technical installations and workshops. These exhibits illustrate traditional techniques for wood and iron processing, gold extraction, wool fabric production, clay and stone craftsmanship, cereal crushing, and oil extraction.
Another sector features distinctive ethnographical farmsteads from various regions in Transylvania. These well-preserved buildings date back to the 17th to 20th centuries and include the entire household inventory.
Although an innovative vision initially outlined four thematic sectors, only the technical sector and the one with zonal farmsteads were organized. The latter represents a traditional dispersed village and includes pastoral buildings and local breed animals.
Notable Exhibits
- House from Vidra (1929): A rustic dwelling that provides insight into rural life.
- Sheepfold from Poiana Sibiului: Complete with a shepherd and 75 sheep.
- Road Cross from Lupsa: A historical monument.
- Farmstead from Telciu: Donated by the inhabitants of Telciu commune.
- Hungarian Shed from Stana: A glimpse into Hungarian rural architecture.
- Museum Restaurant “Gaudeamus”: Visitors can enjoy traditional Transylvanian products here.
Practical Information:
- Location: Str. Tăietura Turcului, Cluj-Napoca, Romania.
- Opening Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
- Contact: Call +40 783 005 146 for inquiries.
How To Get To Cluj
Find Cheap Flights To Cluj Airport Romania
We Recommend Hotel Lol et Lola in Cluj-Napoca
It’s tempting to describe this hotel as “cheap & cheerful”, but that doesn’t do it justice. Yes, Lol et Lola is inexpensive, but it’s the cheerfulness that makes it stand out.
Each of its 20 rooms is decorated in a funky style. Located a short walk from both the city center and the student district, the hotel has a carefree feel to it.