Things To Do
in Strehaia

Polenta served with local cheese and sour cream — a staple side or main at many tables; easy to find in homes, pensions and traditional restaurants.

Must-Try!

Cabbage rolls stuffed with pork and rice, slowly cooked — commonly served at family meals and holiday feasts; available at restaurants and special-occasion menus.

Grilled ground-meat rolls seasoned with garlic and spices; popular street and grill food, especially at weekend gatherings and market stalls.

Fried or boiled sweet cheese doughnuts topped with jam and sour cream — a classic Romanian dessert found in cafes and restaurants.

Weekly market in the center where farmers sell seasonal fruits, vegetables, cheeses, smoked meats and homemade preserves — an ideal place to taste local produce and buy picnic supplies.

Look for mici and grilled corn near the piață or main streets during weekends and market days; vendors also offer covrigi (pretzels) and pastries.

Polite, formal greetings are appreciated — use 'Bună ziua' (Good day) and shake hands for initial meetings. Address older people with 'Domnule' (Mr.) or 'Doamnă' (Mrs./Ms.) unless invited to use first names.

Many locals are Orthodox Christian — dress modestly in churches, speak softly and follow signs about photography or participation in services.

Hosts are welcoming; if invited to a home, bringing a small gift (flowers, sweets) is polite and accept offers of food and drink graciously.

Older generations are given deference — avoid loud behavior in public spaces and show courtesy on public transport.

In restaurants, a 5–10% tip is customary if service is good; small tips or rounding up are common for taxi drivers, and tipping is appreciated but not obligatory in bars and cafes.

Cash (Romanian leu) is widely used, especially in markets and small businesses; many restaurants and shops accept cards, but rural vendors and pensions may be cash-only. ATMs are available in town; notify your bank if traveling from abroad.

Mild temperatures and blooming countryside make spring ideal for walking, market visits and early hiking; occasional rain showers are possible, so bring a light rain jacket.

Warm to hot days with plenty of sunshine — best time for outdoor activities, picnics and visiting national parks; expect local festivals and more open tourist facilities, but also stronger sun and occasional thunderstorms.

Crisp air and colorful foliage, especially in nearby forests and parks; harvest time brings lively markets and seasonal foods — cooler evenings merit a warmer layer.

Cold temperatures with possible snow and ice; town life is quieter, some rural roads may be slippery and services reduced — plan for shorter daylight hours and check road conditions before traveling.

A network of trails through limestone gorges, beech forests and scenic viewpoints; offers waterfalls, diverse flora and fauna and photo opportunities (30–60 km depending on access point).

Gentler trails across plateaus and woodlands with panoramic views of farmland and small valleys — good for half-day hikes and nature watching.

Shorter, informal walking routes along the Motru River and adjacent hills — ideal for relaxed day hikes, birdwatching and picnics close to town.

A longer drive will reach more challenging and well-marked trails in regional national parks such as Cozia or Buila-Vânturarița; suitable for those seeking alpine scenery and longer treks.

Options exist but are limited; mămăligă with cheese, vegetable stews, salads and pickled vegetables are usually available. Inform staff that you are vegetarian; markets are excellent for fresh produce if self-catering.

More challenging in traditional restaurants because many dishes include dairy or meat broths. You can assemble vegan meals from market produce, bread, beans and vegetable soups if available; bigger towns nearby offer more vegan choices.

Corn-based mămăligă is naturally gluten-free, but many baked goods and sauces contain wheat. Explain restrictions clearly and prefer simple grilled meats, vegetables and fresh salads.

Language can be a barrier — carry a translated note describing the allergy in Romanian, and ask about ingredients in traditional dishes.