Before arriving in Transylvania, I pictured dense forests, and tall, rugged mountains, topped with menacing castles. And while those cliches are absolutely present, the idea of a large, bustling city like Cluj is certainly not what I had expected. Arriving in the city at the end of our busy road trip through Maramures , we had few clues on what to do in Cluj, but we would soon find out!
While at first glance, the city might not physically stand out as some of the more famous towns in Transylvania, Cluj is a proper city and definitely worth the attention. As a university town, Cluj is bursting with culture β both old world and new β and a young energy bringing a fresh vibrance to this centuries-old city. Full of chic cafes, high-end restaurants, and stunning architecture; the capital of Transylvania should not be missed when visiting Romania. Here are our favourite sights, restaurants, and things to do in Cluj.
This post may contain affiliate links. We receive a small commission when you click them or make any purchases. We only ever recommend products and services that we stand behind. Read more in our Affiliate Disclosure. With a long history of occupants, dating back to the Roman Empire, the city is filled with many styles of eye-catching architecture. Arguably the most notable building in Cluj, St. Michaels Church is a dramatic structure overlooking Avram Iancu Square in the centre of town.
Beginning in the early 14th century, initial construction lasted until the midth and modifications continued throughout the centuries. One of the strange oddities of the exterior β and a nightmare for those suffering from OCD β are the layout of the gothic arches in comparison with the doorways. These are an unfortunate result of lack of funding during construction and the decision to change the design mid-way.
While here, have a close look, a little higher up on the south-facing wall. See if you can find the Ottoman cannonball that has remained embedded here since a long-ago battle! Churches of the Eastern Orthodox style are absolutely stunning in their unique design. In Cluj, the case is no different. Built quite recently, in the s, the cathedral was designed after the famous Hagia Sofia.
