Things To Do
in Suceava
Suceava is a historic city in northeastern Romania and the administrative center of Suceava County in Bukovina. It sits at the foothills of the Carpathians and blends medieval heritage with a modern, friendly atmosphere. The Cetatea de Scaun a Sucevei (Suceava Fortress) and historic churches anchor the city, while a short drive brings you to the famed painted monasteries of Bukovina.
As a base for exploring Bucovina’s culture and landscapes, Suceava offers a welcoming mix of history, nature, and hearty local cuisine.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Suceava train station or airport and transfer to your hotel. After checking in, head out for a leisurely stroll through the Old Town. Admire the traditional Romanian architecture and soak in the local atmosphere.
Enjoy a relaxed lunch at a nearby bistro specializing in Bucovina cuisine. Wander the cobblestone streets and discover quaint cafes and artisan shops. Visit the local market to sample fresh produce and baked goods.
Dine at a traditional Romanian restaurant featuring mămăligă and sarmale. Take an evening walk around the town center to admire illuminated landmarks. Unwind with a glass of local plum brandy before returning to your hotel.
Start with a hearty breakfast before heading to the Suceava Citadel on Cetății Hill. Explore the fortress walls, defensive towers, and panoramic views of the city. Learn about medieval Moldavian history through informative signage and displays.
Visit the Military History Museum within the citadel complex to see ancient weapons, uniforms, and military artifacts. Stop for a light lunch at the museum cafe overlooking the fortress grounds. Continue with a guided tour of nearby archaeological exhibitions.
Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant offering panoramic views of the citadel at sunset. Sample traditional dishes like tochitură moldovenească and local cheeses. Relax in a cozy pub while listening to live folk music performances.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🚌Public transport (single ride) | $0.50-1 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $50-90 |
| 🎟️Museum entrance | $3-7 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and proximity to UNESCO monasteries
- Friendly locals and affordable prices
- Compact, walkable city center
- Good base for Bukovina day trips
- Limited nightlife and big-city amenities
- Public transport can be infrequent outside city center
- Some large attractions require day trips by car or bus
- "Bună ziua" - Hello / Good day
- "Vă rog" - Please
- "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
- "Cât costă?" - How much does it cost?
- "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Vorbiți engleză?" - Do you speak English?
- "Numele meu este…" - My name is…
- "La revedere" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Suceava
Visit one of these nice places.
A hilltop fortress with medieval towers and sweeping views over the city and surrounding hills.
A historic Bukovinian church with traditional frescoes and a serene courtyard.
Colorful façades, stone-paved streets, and lively street photography opportunities.
Shaded riverbanks and bridges ideal for calm landscape and portrait shots.
Food in Suceava
Suceava Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Polenta with local cheese and sour cream, a comforting staple in Bukovina.
Must-Try!
Sour tripe soup, a popular traditional dish in the region.
Meat-filled cabbage rolls, often served with polenta.
Savory or sweet pastries made with cheese or apples.
Smoked bacon with local cheese, often served with bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh produce, dairy, smoked meats, and local snacks; great for trying street food.
Homemade pastries, cheeses, and sweets in the city center.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake and direct eye contact; use Romanian greetings like Buna ziua; avoid overly familiar behavior with strangers.
Dress modestly; remove hats indoors; speaking softly in churches.
Polite inquiries and patience with service staff are appreciated; addressing elders with respect.
Safety
Tipping in Suceava
Ensure a smooth experience
Local service is appreciated; 5-10% in restaurants if not included; rounding up taxi fares is common.
Cash is widely accepted; credit/debit cards are common in most restaurants and shops; ATMs widely available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with showers; best for city walking and garden photos as flowers bloom.
Warm to hot days; good for day trips to monasteries but carry water and sun protection.
Cooler days with vibrant foliage; ideal for landscape photography and hiking in nearby hills.
Cold with possible snow; many outdoor sites are quieter, but the lit city is charming—pack warm clothing.
Suceava at Night
Hiking in Suceava
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest paths and viewpoints in the Giumalău range just outside the city.
Riverside trails with gentle climbs and scenic views near Putna.
Airports
How to reach Suceava by plane.
Located about 12–15 km from the city center; easy to reach by taxi, car, or airport shuttle.
A major regional airport about 160–180 km away; accessible by road or rail with onward bus connections.
Another regional option about 180–200 km away; transfers by road or rail.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority population, with a blend of local Bukovinian and Moldavian influences.
Small communities contributing to cultural diversity and cuisine.
Part of the multicultural fabric of the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region, with local clubs and public matches.
Common in schools and community leagues; casual play is common in city gyms.
Popular outdoor activities given the surrounding forests and hills.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Suceava.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places offer vegetarian options such as dairy-based dishes, polenta, soups, and salads; ask for omitting meat broth and opt for cheese and mushrooms in soups.