Things To Do
in Târgovişte

Târgovişte is a historic city located in Romania, known for its rich medieval heritage and as the former capital of Wallachia. The city is home to numerous historical sites, including the iconic Chindia Tower and the ruins of the Princely Court. Nestled between the Carpathian Mountains and the Bucharest Plain, it offers picturesque landscapes and a glimpse into Romania's past.

Târgovişte is also a vibrant cultural hub, with various festivals and events throughout the year.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring History
morning
:

Visit the Princely Court, the historical residence of Wallachian rulers, and explore its ruins and museum.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the City Park and visit the nearby Chindia Tower for panoramic views of the city.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a leisurely walk through the illuminated streets of the old town.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start with a visit to the Târgovişte History Museum to learn about the city's rich past.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby Dealul Mare for some hiking and to experience the natural beauty of the area.

evening
:

Relax at a café or bistro, sampling local wines, before catching a performance at the local theater.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$10
Coffee$2
🍺Local beer$3
🚌Public transport ticket$1
🛒Groceries for a week$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited public transport options.
  • Some tourist areas may be less well-maintained.
  • Fewer English-speaking locals compared to larger cities.
  • "Bună ziua" - Hello
  • "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
  • "Te rog" - Please
  • "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Vorbiți engleză?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Târgovişte

Visit one of these nice places.

Chindia Tower

This iconic medieval tower offers stunning views of the city and is a perfect backdrop for photos.

Princely Court

The ruins and gardens of the Princely Court provide a picturesque setting rich in history.

City Park

A lovely green space with flowerbeds and a serene atmosphere, ideal for capturing nature shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Târgovişte

Târgovişte offers a delightful culinary experience that reflects the traditions of Romanian cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and hearty flavors.

Târgovişte Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sarmale

Cabbage rolls stuffed with a mixture of meat and rice, often served with sour cream.

Must-Try!

Mămăligă

A traditional cornmeal porridge, similar to polenta, often served as a side dish.

Ciorbă de burtă

A sour tripe soup flavored with vinegar and served with sour cream and chili.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Târgovişte Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and local products, perfect for sampling street food.

Climate Guide

Weather

Târgovişte experiences a temperate-continental climate, characterized by four distinct seasons. Summers are warm to hot, with temperatures averaging between 25-30°C (77-86°F), while winters can be cold, with temperatures dropping to around -5°C (23°F). Spring and autumn provide mild weather, making these seasons ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is moderate throughout the year, with late spring and early autumn being the wettest months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is the common greeting; it's polite to greet everyone in the group.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites; smart casual is appropriate for dining out.

Gifts

When invited to someone's home, bringing a small gift, such as flowers or sweets, is a kind gesture.

Safety Guide

Safety

Târgovişte is generally considered a safe city for travelers. However, as in any urban area, it's important to remain vigilant, especially in crowded places. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur, so it's advisable to keep personal belongings secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it's wise to familiarize yourself with local hospitals and clinics for any urgent medical needs.

Tipping in Târgovişte

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It's customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included; rounding up is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Most places accept credit cards, but carrying cash (RON) is advisable for small vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings mild weather and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and exploring parks.

Summer

Summer can be hot, with temperatures reaching up to 30°C (86°F), perfect for enjoying outdoor cafes and festivals.

Autumn

Autumn features beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures, ideal for hiking and photography.

Winter

Winters can be cold, with occasional snowfall; it's a charming time to experience local traditions and festive markets.

Nightlife Guide

Târgovişte at Night

Târgovişte has a vibrant nightlife scene with a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The city caters to various tastes, from trendy cocktail bars to traditional pubs. Locals enjoy socializing in outdoor terraces during warmer months, while indoor venues host live music and themed nights. The atmosphere is generally friendly and welcoming, making it easy to mingle with locals and other visitors.

Hiking in Târgovişte

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bucegi Mountains

Located about an hour's drive from Târgovişte, the Bucegi Mountains offer various hiking trails for all levels, with stunning views of the peaks.

Piatra Craiului National Park

A bit further afield, this national park features rugged trails and breathtaking landscapes, popular among experienced hikers.

Airports

How to reach Târgovişte by plane.

Henri Coandă International Airport

Located approximately 80 km (50 miles) from Târgovişte, this is the main international airport serving Bucharest, providing numerous flight options.

Getting Around

Walkability

Târgovişte is a relatively walkable city, especially in the central areas where most attractions are located. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and many points of interest are within walking distance of each other. However, some areas may have steep inclines, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Exploring on foot allows visitors to soak in the city's charm and discover hidden gems along the way.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Romanians

The majority of Târgovişte's population is composed of ethnic Romanians, with a rich cultural heritage.

Hungarians

There is a small Hungarian community in Târgovişte, contributing to the city's cultural diversity.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Târgovişte, with local teams having a strong following.

Handball

Handball is also widely played and enjoyed, with local clubs participating in national leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Târgovişte is generally light, making it easy to navigate the city by car or on foot. Public transportation consists of buses that connect different neighborhoods, although schedules may vary. Bicycle rentals are also available, promoting eco-friendly travel around the city. Parking can be found near major attractions, but it can be limited during busy times.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Târgovişte.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, it's good to inquire about meat stock in soups.

Gluten-Free

While gluten-free options are limited, you can find naturally gluten-free dishes like mămăligă.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Târgovişte is accessible, with several hospitals and clinics providing services. The most notable is the Târgovişte Municipal Hospital, which offers a range of medical services. Pharmacies are also widely available, and many staff members speak basic English. For travelers, it's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and to carry any necessary medications.

Discover Romania

Read more in our Romania 2025 Travel Guide.

Romania Travel Guide