Things To Do
in Giurgiu
Giurgiu is a Romanian town situated on the southern bank of the Danube, opposite Bulgaria across the river. Its compact center blends historic architecture with a relaxed, provincial Romanian charm. The city serves as a gateway to cross-border travel and nearby nature reserves along the Danube Plain.
Visitors can enjoy riverside promenades, friendly cafes, and seasonal events that reveal local life at a comfortable pace.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Giurgiu Palace, where you can marvel at its neoclassical architecture. Stroll through the beautiful streets of the historic center, taking in the quaint shops and charming cafes. Don’t miss the chance to snap photos of the stunning St. George Church, a local landmark dating back to the 18th century.
After a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant, head to the Giurgiu Town Museum, where you can learn about the rich history and culture of the area. Explore the exhibits that showcase archaeological finds and traditional crafts. Take a leisurely walk along the Danube River promenade, enjoying the views and perhaps stopping for a coffee at a riverside café.
As the sun sets, dine at a traditional Romanian restaurant, savoring local dishes like sarmale or mămăligă. After dinner, enjoy a leisurely walk along the riverbank, soaking in the evening ambiance. If you're in the mood for entertainment, check out any local performances or events happening in the town.
Begin your morning with a relaxing stroll along the Danube River, watching the boats glide by as you breathe in the fresh air. Take a moment to enjoy a picnic breakfast at one of the scenic spots overlooking the river. You might even catch sight of some local fishermen starting their day.
Spend your afternoon at the Danube Delta, where you can partake in a guided boat tour to explore the rich biodiversity of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Witness the unique flora and fauna, as well as the picturesque landscapes that make this area so special. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery and the vibrant birdlife.
Return to Giurgiu in the evening and unwind at a cozy bistro with outdoor seating. Treat yourself to a glass of local wine as you reflect on your day’s adventures. If you’re up for it, enjoy a friendly game of chess or backgammon with locals who frequent the bistro.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🧁Bakery item or snack | $0.5-2 |
| 🚲Bike rental (per day) | $8-12 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (short distance) | $2-8 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable city center with river views
- Friendly locals and authentic, affordable Romanian cuisine
- Easy cross-border day trips to Bulgaria via the Danube bridge
- Access to nearby nature reserves and Danube landscapes
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Smaller selection of high-end international dining
- Some amenities concentrated in the city center; outskirts can feel quiet
- Cross-border trips require border checks and planning
- "Bună ziua" - Hello / Good day
- "Vă rog" - Please
- "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
- "Vorbiți engleză?" - Do you speak English?
- "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the restroom?
- "Cât costă?" - How much does it cost?
- "La revedere" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Giurgiu
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour views of the Danube with boats and the Bulgaria side across the water; a classic spot for river reflections.
Historic facades, clock tower, and bustling market scenes—all great for street photography.
Architectural details and quiet lanes offer intimate, atmospheric shots.
Dramatic riverscape with cross-border scenery and sunset lighting over the Danube.
Photogenic historic building with classic Romanian design elements visible from the street.
Food in Giurgiu
Giurgiu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cilled cabbage rolls served with mamăligă (polenta); a staple Romanian comfort dish commonly found in local eateries.
Must-Try!
Pried pork stew with sausages, usually served with mămăliguță and a fried egg on top.
A tangy tripe soup, often enjoyed as a hearty starter or main when available in traditional taverns.
Polenta topped with cheese and sour cream; a simple, beloved accompaniment to many dishes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market where you can taste fresh bread, dairy, produce, and small savory snacks from local vendors.
Casual spots offering quick fried snacks, grilled meats, and pastries—great for a casual bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is common; address people with polite forms of address and use Romanian greetings. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites and remove hats indoors where appropriate.
Keep noise moderate in public spaces, especially in the evening; queuing is common at markets and service counters.
Small talk about family and local life is appreciated; avoid sensitive topics with strangers until you know them better.
Safety
Tipping in Giurgiu
Ensure a smooth experience
In most restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is customary if service is not included. Taxis and bars typically appreciate rounding up the fare.
Cash (RON) and cards are widely accepted in urban areas; contactless payments are common in shops and restaurants. Carry some cash for smaller vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming streets; perfect for walking tours and outdoor markets as the city comes alive after winter.
Warm to hot days; riverside strolls and outdoor cafés are popular. Stay hydrated and enjoy evening breezes along the Danube.
Moderate temperatures with colorful foliage; ideal for photography along the river and quiet park walks.
Cold with occasional snow; indoor dining and museums are good options, and the city takes on a calm, festive mood around the holidays.
Giurgiu at Night
Hiking in Giurgiu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails and wetlands offering easy hikes, wildlife viewing, and birdwatching within a short drive.
Multiple easy trails along the Danube with river views and varying scenery, suitable for all ages.
Airports
How to reach Giurgiu by plane.
Bucharest's main international airport; about 60-70 km from Giurgiu, accessible by road or rail plus transfer connections.
Smaller Bucharest airport, closer to the city center; useful for some domestic and low-cost international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population, with a strong local cultural identity and community life.
A significant minority present in many parts of the city, contributing to cultural diversity and local markets.
Proximity to Bulgaria across the Danube adds subtle cross-border cultural and economic exchanges.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region with local clubs and community games throughout the year.
A common spectator sport with local leagues and youth participation.
Played in schools and community centers; occasional local matches draw small crowds.
Fishing, boating, and casual water sport activities along the river.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Giurgiu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable-based dishes, dairy or egg options, and ask for non-meat additions. Many places offer mamăliguță with cheese and salads as satisfying vegetarian choices.
Look for salads, vegetable stews, and bread with olive oil; request sillow-free cooking or dairy-free preparations where available.
Many traditional dishes are naturally gluten-free (grilled meats, certain stews). Always confirm sauces and bread options with staff.