Things To Do
in Alexandria
Alexandria is a small city in southern Romania set along the Olt River, blending a quiet provincial charm with pockets of historic architecture. The town exudes a relaxed, village-like vibe while offering essential services, markets, and riverside strolls ideal for slow travel. It serves as a convenient base for exploring the Teleorman countryside and nearby natural spots.
Visitors are welcomed by hearty Romanian hospitality, affordable dining, and easy-paced days that lend themselves to spontaneous discoveries.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Alexandria and check into your accommodation, setting the stage for an exciting exploration. Spend the morning settling in and enjoying a traditional breakfast at a local café, savoring flavors unique to Romanian cuisine. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the city's charming streets to get acquainted with your surroundings.
In the afternoon, visit the stunning local landmarks such as the Town Hall and the Monument of Alexandru Ioan Cuza. Discover the rich history and cultural significance of these sites by engaging with local guides or reading informative plaques. Enjoy a lunch at a nearby restaurant, perhaps trying local specialties like mămăligă or sarmale.
As evening falls, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Alexandria by visiting a local bar or café. Sample Romanian wines or craft beers while enjoying live music or engaging in conversation with locals. Savor a delightful dinner at a restaurant, where you can relish regional dishes alongside warm hospitality.
Begin your day by visiting the Museum of History and Archeology in Alexandria, which holds fascinating artifacts and exhibitions that dive deep into the region's past. This engaging experience will set the tone for your exploration of the area's unique heritage. Afterward, enjoy a coffee at a quaint café nearby to reflect on what you've learned.
In the afternoon, take a guided tour to the nearby archaeological site in the village of Zimnicea, where you can see remnants of ancient civilizations. It's a superb opportunity to witness the rich historical narrative of the region firsthand. After touring, have lunch at a local eatery before heading back to Alexandria.
For dinner, choose a restaurant known for its traditional Romanian cuisine, offering a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. Engage in conversations with friendly locals as you explore the evening nightlife options. After dinner, consider visiting a cultural center or gallery for a taste of local art and music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍝Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi within city | $2-6 (start) + per km |
| 🏨1 night in a budget hotel | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace of life and good value for money
- Genuine hospitality and easy access to countryside
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- English may be less common in some local spots
- "Bună ziua" - Hello / Good day
- "La revedere" - Goodbye
- "Vă rog" - Please
- "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
- "Cât costă?" - How much does it cost?
- "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Nu vorbesc românește foarte bine." - I don't speak Romanian very well.
- "Vorbiți engleză?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Alexandria
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden hour along the river with bridges and water reflections, ideal for long exposure and quiet street photography.
A compact cluster of historic architecture, marble façades, and traditional shopfronts that makes for atmospheric street shots.
Green spaces with mature trees, benches, and classic Romanian urban scenery perfect for portrait and lifestyle photography.
Narrow lanes and colorful façades offer textures, doorways, and everyday life photography opportunities.
Food in Alexandria
Alexandria Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Juicy grilled minced-meat rolls served with mustard, bread, and ardenasa vegetables; a staple at local grills and casual eateries.
Must-Try!
Cabbage rolls filled with seasoned pork and rice, often served with a dollop of sour cream and mămăligă (polenta).
Polenta topped with salty cheese and sour cream; a comforting accompaniment to many meat dishes.
Savory tripe soup with sour cream and vinegar, a Romanian comfort soup found in traditional eateries.
Roasted vegetable spreads or simple, seasonal vegetable dishes common in local homes and bistros.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where locals buy fresh produce, dairy, bread, and prepared snacks; great for sampling street foods and observing everyday life.
Small stalls and carts offering quick bites like covrigi (pretzels) and savory pastries; ideal for a mid-day bite while wandering the streets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Bună ziua' and shake hands in formal or initial encounters. Address elders as 'Domnul/Doamna' and maintain a respectful tone in conversations.
Queue politely, avoid loud conversations in sacred spaces, and dress modestly when visiting churches. It's common to bring a small gift when visiting a home.
Romanian is the primary language; many people in service roles know basic English, but learning a few phrases in Romanian is appreciated.
Safety
Tipping in Alexandria
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of about 5-10% is common if service is not included in the bill. Small tips for cafe staff or waiters are appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash and cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants. Contactless payments are common, and ATMs are plentiful in the city center.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days, often dry with occasional thunderstorms. Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and seek shade in parks and museums during peak afternoon heat.
Mild days with turning foliage; great for walking tours and outdoor photography. Pack layers for cooler mornings and evenings.
Cold temperatures with possible snowfall; some outdoor sites may be less accessible. Bring warm clothing and enjoy indoor attractions like museums and cafes.
Pleasant temperatures and budding greenery; rain is possible, so carry a light rain jacket. Ideal for city strolls and riverbank walks.
Alexandria at Night
Hiking in Alexandria
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy-to-moderate walking paths along the riverbanks offering scenic views and peaceful nature close to the city.
Short, accessible hikes or bike rides through agricultural landscapes and small woodlands in the surrounding countryside.
Airports
How to reach Alexandria by plane.
Main international gateway to Romania, located near Otopeni, roughly 100-120 minutes by car or rail from Alexandria; frequent international and domestic flights.
Regional airport serving Craiova; serves domestic and some international flights and provides alternative access for travelers heading to southern Romania.
Local airport near Bucharest, historically used for domestic and private flights; not a primary international hub.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Numerically dominant population with a minority presence of Roma communities.
A notable minority in many Romanian towns, including Alexandria, contributing to diverse cultural life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Fans and local clubs are active; games and local leagues are common during the season.
Popular indoor sports with local teams and community events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Alexandria.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian options such as mămăligă with vegetables, bean or lentil-based dishes, and seasonal salads. When in doubt, request dishes without meat and ask for vegetable-forward preparations; it’s common to receive bread, cheese, and eggs as protein sources in vegetarian meals.