Things To Do
in Curtea de Argeş
Curtea de Argeș is a historic town nestled along the Argeș River, famed for its medieval monastery and as a gateway to the surrounding Carpathian landscapes. It blends religious heritage with a modest 19th-century town core, offering a calm base for exploring central Romania. The town serves as a starting point for adventures into Cheile Argeșului (Argeș Gorge) and the nearby mountains, while still providing approachable dining and cultural experiences.
Visitors can expect a genuine, unhurried Romanian town atmosphere with friendly locals and scenic river views.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the stunning Curtea de Argeş Monastery, an architectural masterpiece that dates back to the 16th century. As you wander through its intricately designed frescoes and detailed stonework, imagine the history that has unfolded within these walls. Take some time to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the beautiful gardens surrounding the monastery.
After lunch, head to the nearby Comana Monastery, a serene retreat that offers a glimpse into Romania's monastic traditions. Explore the lush surroundings of the monastery and indulge in some local cuisine at a nearby restaurant. The afternoon allows you to admire the tranquil beauty of the area and appreciate the spirituality of these historic sites.
Wrap up your day with a leisurely stroll along the picturesque banks of the Argeş River. Find a cozy café where you can sip on a warm drink while soaking in the evening ambiance. As the sun sets, reflect on the day's discoveries in this charming city.
Start your day with a visit to the Princely Court, a historical site that once shaped the fate of Romania. Explore the ruins and learn about the significance of this place in the royal past of the region. The guided tour will take you through various exhibits showcasing artifacts and the history of the princely family.
For lunch, try a local eatery and savor traditional Romanian dishes. Spend your afternoon at the Museum of Curtea de Argeş, where you can delve deeper into the rich local history and art. The museum houses collections that span centuries, giving you insight into the region's cultural heritage.
In the evening, head out to one of Curtea de Argeş's traditional restaurants for a delightful dining experience. Enjoy local specialties while enjoying the warm hospitality of the Romanian people. As the night falls, take a leisurely walk back to your accommodations under the starry sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee / tea | $2-4 |
| 🧭Public transport / local taxi | $0.5-1.5 per ride |
| 🛏️Hotel night (mid-range) | $40-70 |
| 🧺Groceries for a few days | $20-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic Romanian town experience
- Gateway to Argeș Gorge and mountains
- Compact center, walkable historic core
- Good value for money
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Some attractions require a car to reach
- Seasonal crowds can limit English in smaller shops
- Hilly terrain may be strenuous for some travelers
- "Bună ziua" - Hello / Good day
- "Vreau o masă pentru doi, vă rog" - I would like a table for two, please
- "Cât costă?" - How much does it cost?
- "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
- "La revedere" - Goodbye
- "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Vorbiți engleză?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Curtea de Argeş
Visit one of these nice places.
A historic Orthodox monastery with vibrant frescoes, a serene courtyard, and atmospheric light for photography.
A scenic riverside walk with golden-hour reflections and old bridges—great for landscape and street photography.
Colorful facades, traditional Romanian architecture, and quiet streets ideal for portraits and architectural shots.
Food in Curtea de Argeş
Curtea de Argeş Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tangy beef-tripe soup often served with sour cream and vinegar, a popular starter in many Romanian homes and restaurants.
Must-Try!
Polenta topped with brânză (cheese) and smântână (sour cream); a classic pairing for meat dishes.
Slow-cooked beef stew with vegetables, typically served with mămăligă or bread.
Traditional shepherd’s pâté made with lamb organs, herbs, and eggs; commonly prepared for holiday meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market offering fresh produce, dairy, bread, and seasonal specialties—great for tasting everyday Romanian flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a simple “Bună ziua” (hello) or “Salut”; a brief, friendly conversation goes a long way.
Dress modestly when visiting monasteries and churches; remove hats and speak softly near sacred spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Curtea de Argeş
Ensure a smooth experience
tipping around 5-10% in restaurants if service is good; rounding up is common in casual places.
Cash is widely accepted; cards are common in urban businesses. Some smaller venues may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with fresh greenery; showers are common, carry a light rain jacket.
Warm to hot days; stay hydrated, seek shade, and enjoy riverside breezes. Ideal for photography at dusk.
Cold with potential snowfall; some trails may be icy—dress warmly and check access to mountain routes.
Curtea de Argeş at Night
Hiking in Curtea de Argeş
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Spectacular limestone cliffs and river trails; a popular day hike from Curtea de Argeș.
Scenic lake area with possible shorter hikes and lookouts; combines well with a drive along the mountain roads.
Airports
How to reach Curtea de Argeş by plane.
Major international gateway about 100-140 km away by road; frequent domestic and international flights.
Smaller Bucharest airport offering regional flights; limited options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant in Curtea de Argeș, with strong traditional culture and local customs.
Present in the region; interactions are generally warm, with mutual respect for local norms.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular at both local clubs and informal community play; matches can be a local highlight.
Access to nearby mountains supports hiking, trekking, and winter activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Curtea de Argeş.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common; opt for soups, cornmeal dishes, grilled vegetables, and cheese plates. When ordering, ask for “fără carne” (no meat) and seek sauces or sides from vegetable-focused dishes.