Things To Do
in Tulcea
Tulcea sits in the Dobrogea region along the Danube, serving as the gateway to the Danube Delta. The town has a working port, a scenic riverfront, and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Its history and Dobrogean influences give the city a distinct Mediterranean-Romanian flavor.
From here, you can easily launch boat trips into the Delta and explore nearby wetlands.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in the charming town of Tulcea and check into your accommodation, where you will be greeted with local hospitality. Take a leisurely stroll along the streets to get a feel for the vibrant culture and stunning local architecture. Enjoy a traditional Romanian breakfast at a nearby café, sampling local cheeses, cured meats, and fresh bread.
Explore the picturesque Danube Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage site, by taking a guided boat tour through its winding channels. Marvel at the diverse bird species and unique ecosystems that thrive in this incredible biosphere. Stop at a secluded spot for a picnic lunch while soaking up the natural beauty surrounding you.
Return to Tulcea and dine at a local restaurant known for its fresh fish specialties. Experience the lively atmosphere as locals gather to enjoy food and music. After dinner, take a relaxing stroll along the waterfront, watching the sunset over the Danube River.
Set out early for an adventurous excursion deeper into the Danube Delta by kayak. Paddle through serene channels while observing the rich flora and fauna, including rare bird species such as pelicans. Feel the tranquility of the early morning as you connect with nature away from the hustle and bustle.
After your kayaking adventure, enjoy a lunch made from freshly caught fish at a local restaurant. Spend the afternoon visiting some of the small fishing communities in the delta, learning about their traditions and way of life. Engage with local fishermen and discover the importance of the river for their livelihood.
Go for an evening walk through the historic center of Tulcea, where you can admire the architecture and vibrant street life. Treat yourself to a dinner featuring regional dishes such as sarmale or mici, served with a local wine. As the night unfolds, find a cozy bar to enjoy a nightcap while chatting with fellow travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🛒Groceries | $5-20 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $3-7 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Gateway to the Danube Delta
- Rich birdlife and fishing culture
- Relaxed pace and scenic riverfront
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Seasonal tourism can cause price spikes in summer
- Delta trips depend on weather and water levels
- "Bună ziua" - Hello / Good day
- "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
- "La revedere" - Goodbye
- "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Cât costă?" - How much does it cost?
- "Vorbiți engleză?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Tulcea
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide river views, boats, and sunset reflections; ideal for long exposure and composition involving the water.
Colorful facades and a grand church; good for street photography and architectural shots.
Ancient pine forest with dunes and a distinctive landscape; excellent for golden-hour wildlife and scenery.
Food in Tulcea
Tulcea Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Salt-brined fish (usually carp) served with mămăligă (polenta) and garlic sauce.
Must-Try!
Fish soup made with souring vegetables and dill, a light yet flavorful Delta staple.
Carp simmered in tomato sauce with onions and herbs, often enjoyed with bread or polenta.
Grilled trout sourced from Danube Delta waters, seasoned simply to highlight the fish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A hub for fresh fish, seasonal vegetables, dairy, bread, and local snacks; best visited in the morning.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common; greet with 'Bună ziua' (Hello) and address people by title and surname when appropriate.
Romanian is the primary language; local influences from Turkish and Tatar communities appear in culture and cuisine; politeness matters in conversations.
Safety
Tipping in Tulcea
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% is customary if service is not included.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in the city; cash is useful for markets and small shops; ATMs are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Migratory birds return; wetlands come alive with fresh greens and blossoms; pleasant temperatures for walking.
Hot and humid; Delta boat trips run frequently; carry sun protection, water, and plan early outings to avoid midday heat.
Milder weather and fewer crowds; good wildlife viewing and comfortable city exploring.
Cold with possible rain or light snow; some Delta tours scale back; city itself remains quieter but charming.
Tulcea at Night
Hiking in Tulcea
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A unique pine forest with sand dunes; reachable by boat or guided tours; great for wildlife watching and photography.
Gateway to Delta wetlands with easy trails and nature reserves.
Airports
How to reach Tulcea by plane.
Major international gateway about 160-180 km from Tulcea; frequent connections to Europe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Major ethnic group; diverse Dobrogea region influences.
Cultural influences visible in cuisine and local traditions.
Small communities contributing to cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Most popular sport; clubs and matches in town.
Kayaking, boat trips, and fishing expeditions are popular activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tulcea.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy salads, grilled vegetables, and polenta-based dishes. Some fish dishes may be prepared with seafood stock, so ask for meat-free preparations and request dishes like mamăligă cu brânză or zacuscă when available.