Haţeg

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Haţeg's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore the Haţeg Country Dinosaurs Geopark
morning
:

Begin your adventure at the Haţeg Country Dinosaurs Geopark, where you can marvel at incredible dinosaur fossils and learn about the region's prehistoric past. Walk along well-marked trails that showcase the geological richness of the area. The morning sun enhances the vibrant colors of the lush landscape, making it a photographer's paradise.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the nearby Densus Church, one of the oldest stone churches in Romania, which dates back to the 13th century. The exquisite architecture and historical significance of the church will leave you enchanted. Enjoy a picnic in the serene surroundings while soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

evening
:

As the sun sets, explore the quaint streets of Haţeg, stopping by local boutiques and artisan shops. Enjoy a traditional Romanian dinner at a cozy restaurant and relish local delicacies paired with a glass of local wine. End your day by taking a leisurely stroll under the stars, appreciating the tranquil ambiance of this charming town.

day 2
Visit the Corvin Castle
morning
:

Set off early to the majestic Corvin Castle in Hunedoara, a short drive from Haţeg. This Gothic-Renaissance castle, one of the largest in Europe, is a marvel of medieval architecture. Spend your morning exploring its grand halls, towers, and picturesque courtyards.

afternoon
:

After a guided tour, indulge in lunch at a nearby café before heading back to Haţeg. Spend the afternoon visiting the local Natural History Museum, which features fascinating exhibits on the region's biodiversity. Take the time to appreciate the rich cultural heritage displayed through the various artifacts.

evening
:

Return to Haţeg and find a local tavern for dinner, enjoying live music that blends traditional and contemporary Romanian tunes. Let the warm ambiance and friendly locals enhance your dining experience. Reflect on the day's adventures over dessert, sampling local sweets before resting for the night.

day 3
Hiking in Retezat National Park
morning
:

Start your day with an early breakfast and pack your gear for a day of hiking in Retezat National Park. Enter the park and set off on one of its stunning trails, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views and pristine wilderness. Be on the lookout for diverse wildlife such as bears and chamois as you venture deeper into the park.

afternoon
:

After a few hours of hiking, stop for a packed lunch by a mountain lake, savoring the tranquil beauty that surrounds you. Continue your expedition, exploring glacial lakes and unique alpine flora. The afternoon light casts a magical glow over the landscape, providing perfect conditions for photography.

evening
:

Return to Haţeg in the evening, feeling rejuvenated from your day in nature. Dine at a local restaurant, sharing stories about your hiking experiences with fellow travelers. Conclude your night by relaxing at your accommodation, allowing the day's memories to sink in.

day 4
Cultural immersion in local traditions
morning
:

Dedicate your morning to discovering the rich cultural traditions of the Haţeg region. Visit the local artisan workshops where craftspeople create pottery and textiles using age-old techniques. Engage with the artisans to learn about their crafts and the stories behind them.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon visiting nearby traditional villages, such as Sălașu de Sus, where time seems to stand still. Participate in local activities or cooking classes, where you can learn to prepare traditional Romanian dishes using fresh local ingredients. Experience the warmth of hospitality that defines Romanian culture.

evening
:

Return to Haţeg and enjoy a cultural performance at a local community center, where folk music and dance celebrate the region's heritage. Share a meal with newfound friends, exchanging stories and laughter. As you retire for the night, treasure the connections made and the cultural insights gained throughout the day.

day 5
Visit the Băile Herculane Spa
morning
:

Embark on a day trip to Băile Herculane, one of the oldest spas in Europe, known for its thermal mineral waters. Arrive early to soak in the natural hot springs, which have been cherished since ancient Roman times. The rejuvenating waters will prepare you for a day of relaxation and wellness.

afternoon
:

After soaking, indulge in a therapeutic massage or wellness treatment at the spa, designed to invigorate both body and mind. Spend your afternoon leisurely wandering through the landscaped gardens surrounding the spa, where you can enjoy the lush greenery and serene atmosphere. Capture the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and the sound of flowing water.

evening
:

As the day winds down, enjoy dinner at a restaurant in Băile Herculane, sampling local specialties. The tranquil ambiance of the spa town is perfect for leisurely conversations and savoring fine cuisine. Return to Haţeg, feeling refreshed and revitalized.

day 6
Exploring local vineyards
morning
:

Visit a local vineyard near Haţeg to start your day with a tour of the grapevines and an introduction to the wine-making process. The crisp morning air and stunning vineyard views set the perfect scene for learning about Romania's rich winemaking heritage. Engage with the vintners who share stories of their traditions and techniques.

afternoon
:

After the vineyard tour, participate in a wine tasting session, sampling some of the region's finest wines paired with artisanal cheeses and local delicacies. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes while savoring the flavors that define the Romanian countryside. Spend the afternoon relaxing among the grapevines or exploring small towns nearby.

evening
:

As the day comes to a close, return to Haţeg for dinner at a family-run bistro known for its authentic Romanian cuisine. Share a meal with locals and fellow travelers, exchanging insights and building friendships. End the evening with a stroll through the town, absorbing the rich flavors and warm hospitality of the region.

day 7
Discovering medieval fortresses
morning
:

Travel to the nearby village of Râşnov to explore its impressive medieval fortress. The morning is best spent wandering through the well-preserved walls and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Feel the history come alive as you discover tales of the fortress’s past.

afternoon
:

After your fortress exploration, grab lunch in Râşnov before heading to the nearby Prejmer fortified church, a UNESCO World Heritage site showcasing unique architecture. Spend your afternoon learning about the defensive measures taken by the Saxon settlers in this region. Don’t forget to capture some stunning photographs of the intriguing sites.

evening
:

Return to Haţeg and enjoy dinner at a charming restaurant, where traditional dishes are served amidst a cozy atmosphere. Reflect on the history you've encountered throughout the day over a glass of local wine. Conclude your evening with a peaceful walk through the streets of Haţeg, taking in the beauty of this picturesque town.

day 8
Engaging with local wildlife
morning
:

Start your day with an expedition to a nearby wildlife sanctuary where you can observe Romania's remarkable fauna in a natural environment. Spend the morning walking through the reserve, spotting deer, bison, and various bird species in their habitats. This immersive experience deepens your understanding of Romania's natural heritage.

afternoon
:

After a guided tour, enjoy a casual lunch at a local restaurant featuring dishes that highlight regional ingredients. In the afternoon, participate in an interactive workshop focusing on wildlife conservation, where you can learn how to protect local ecosystems and the species that inhabit them. Engage with passionate experts who are dedicated to preserving Romania's wildlife.

evening
:

Return to Haţeg in the evening after a fulfilling day of wildlife exploration and conservation. Relish a well-deserved dinner, reminiscing about the amazing creatures you've encountered throughout the day. Wind down your evening with a walk along the river, reflecting on the wonders of nature.

day 9
Exploring the Apuseni Mountains
morning
:

Embark on a journey to the nearby Apuseni Mountains, where stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity await you. Spend the morning hiking through the trails, surrounded by dramatic cliffs, dense forests, and picturesque valleys. Discover hidden caves and waterfalls, experiencing the beauty of this lesser-known gem.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, stop for a local lunch in a mountain lodge where the warmth of the fireplace adds to the cozy ambiance. Afterward, continue exploring the area with a guided tour of the Scarisoara Cave, home to one of the largest underground glaciers in Romania. Capture unique photos and learn about the geological processes that formed this natural wonder.

evening
:

Return to Haţeg as evening falls, enjoying dinner at a rustic restaurant that features mountain-inspired dishes. Share tales of your adventures with fellow diners, all while savoring the hearty flavors of Romanian cuisine. Relax after a thrilling day, taking in the peaceful ambiance of your surroundings.

Discover Haţeg

Read more in our Haţeg 2025 Travel Guide.

Haţeg Travel Guide