Things To Do
in Roman
Roman is a historic town in eastern Romania set along the Moldova River, where centuries of architecture mingle with a laid-back Moldovan vibe. The town serves as a gateway to forested hills, rural villages, and scenic riverbanks that reward slow travel and curious wandering. Its compact center is walkable, with charming churches, markets, and cafes that invite lingering.
Visitors will encounter friendly locals, traditional crafts, and easy access to nature beyond the city limits.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Romanian pastries and strong coffee. After breakfast, take a stroll through the city's historic center, admiring the charming architecture and vibrant street life. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the beautiful Church of Saint Nicholas, a testament to Roman's rich cultural heritage.
Spend the afternoon at the city’s archaeological museum, where you can discover fascinating artifacts and learn about the ancient history of the area. Afterward, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant that specializes in Romanian cuisine, savoring dishes like sarmale or mămăligă. Later, take a scenic walk through the city's lush parks, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature.
As the sun sets, head to a traditional Romanian restaurant for dinner, where you can experience live folk music and dance. The vibrant atmosphere will immerse you in local culture and hospitality, making for an unforgettable dining experience. After dinner, consider visiting a nearby bar or wine cellar to sample some of Romania's exquisite wines.
Kick off the day by driving to the picturesque Bistrița River, located just a short distance from Roman. Enjoy the fresh air and scenic views as you hike along the riverbank, breathing in the tranquil beauty of nature. Don’t forget to pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy by the water while soaking up the serene atmosphere.
Spend your afternoon kayaking or canoeing along the river, allowing the gentle current to guide you through stunning landscapes. For lunch, find a scenic spot along the riverbank to enjoy homemade sandwiches and local treats. If you're feeling adventurous, take a dip in the refreshing waters or lay back and sunbathe on the shore.
Return to Roman in the evening for a laid-back dinner at a cozy eatery known for farm-to-table dishes. Share stories of your day’s adventures while enjoying flavorsome local meats and fresh vegetables. Wind down with a peaceful walk through the illuminated streets of the city, reflecting on your experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚎One-way local transit | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $25-60 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly) | $25-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable old town with charm and history
- Affordability and delicious Moldovan-influenced cuisine
- Easy access to forests, rivers, and nature nearby
- Limited high-end nightlife and some rural services may require planning
- Occasional language barriers in smaller establishments
- "Bună ziua" - Hello / Good day
- "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
- "Vă rog" - Please
- "La revedere" - Goodbye
- "Cât costă?" - How much does it cost?
- "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Vorbiți engleză?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Roman
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide river views with hills in the distance, especially striking at golden hour.
Historic façades and narrow lanes around a central square ideal for street photography.
Bustling market scenes, colorful stalls, and green spaces perfect for candid and composition shots.
Religious architecture with reflective water features and tranquil surroundings.
Food in Roman
Roman Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cabbage rolls filled with seasoned pork and rice, usually served with polenta (mămăligă) and sour cream.
Must-Try!
A hearty pork dish served with mamăligă and, sometimes, a fried egg on top.
Polenta topped with cheese and sour cream; a staple accompaniment to many dishes.
Grilled spiced ground-meat rolls, often enjoyed with mustard and bread.
Sour tripe soup, a traditional and popular Romanian comfort dish.
Rolled crepes filled with fruit jam for a light finish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling central market where you can sample fresh produce, cheeses, smoked meats, and regional snacks.
Casual stalls offering roasted corn, pastries, mici, and quick bites perfect for a midday snack.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake is standard in formal settings; greet with 'Bună ziua' or 'Bună dimineața' depending on the time of day.
Use polite language, maintain eye contact, and avoid sensitive topics in initial conversations.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; speak softly and remove hats where appropriate.
Safety
Tipping in Roman
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, rounding up or leaving 5–10% for good service is common if no service charge applies. For casual cafes, a small tip is appreciated but not required.
Cash is still widely used, especially in smaller towns. Credit/debit cards are accepted in larger establishments and hotels; ATMs are common in towns like Roman.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming orchards; rain showers are common, so bring a light jacket and waterproof layer.
Warm to hot days with possibility of humidity and occasional thunderstorms; carry water and a hat.
Pleasant temperatures and harvest colors; great for outdoor photography and walks.
Cold with potential snow; some outdoor sights may be less accessible, but indoor attractions are welcoming.
Roman at Night
Hiking in Roman
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Carpathian foothills with marked trails, forest scenery, and panoramic viewpoints about a 1–2 hour drive from Roman.
Protected forested area with wildlife and nature trails, offering another day-trip option from Roman.
Gentle to moderate riverbank trails suitable for easy day walks and photography.
Airports
How to reach Roman by plane.
Primary regional gateway with connections to major European cities; about 2–3 hours by road/train to Roman.
Alternative regional airport with frequent European connections; typically a similar travel time to Roman as Iași.
Smaller regional airport offering some seasonal and domestic links; broader options exist in Iași or Bacău.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant group, with a strong cultural presence in daily life and local traditions.
Established minority community present in various neighborhoods and markets.
Small numbers of Ukrainians, Hungarians, and other Eastern European residents in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the region, with local games and informal pick-up matches common in parks.
Common on school courts and municipal facilities; weekend leagues appear in larger nearby towns.
Hiking and cycling are popular in the surrounding countryside and along the Moldova River.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Roman.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ask for vegetarian soups (e.g., mushroom or bean-based) and mamăligă with cheese and sour cream; request grilled vegetables or cheese plates as alternatives; communicate clearly about meat in dishes and sauces.