Things To Do
in Vicovu de Sus
Vicovu de Sus is a quiet Bucovina village in northern Romania, set along rolling hills and patchwork fields. The community preserves traditional rural life, with wooden churches, family-run guesthouses, and warm hospitality. It's a convenient base for visiting the famous painted monasteries of Bucovina and the nearby Suceava River valley.
In all seasons, the area offers scenic countryside, rural markets, and opportunities to taste Bucovina's hearty, farm-to-table cuisine.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the local market where you can savor fresh produce and traditional Romanian foods. Stroll through the picturesque village and admire the beautiful wooden churches that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region. Early risers can also enjoy a peaceful walk along the riverbanks.
After lunch, delve into the local history at the Vicovu de Sus Museum, where exhibits tell the story of the village and its people. Don’t miss the chance to interact with local artisans who create traditional crafts. Enjoy a leisurely afternoon hike in the nearby Carpathian foothills, experiencing the breathtaking natural beauty of the landscape.
As the sun sets, gather for dinner at a traditional Romanian restaurant, where you can try local delicacies. Enjoy the warm ambiance filled with folk music and stories from the locals. Finish your evening with a relaxed stroll under the stars, embracing the tranquil atmosphere of the countryside.
Embark on a morning trip to the nearby Sucevița Monastery, famous for its stunning frescoes and peaceful gardens. Learn about the history of this UNESCO World Heritage site through a guided tour. Spend some time reflecting in the serene surroundings or take photos of the breathtaking architecture.
In the afternoon, head to the Moldovița Monastery, which is equally renowned for its artistic value. Participate in a traditional coffee afternoon hosted by local monks if available, and experience the comforting routines of monastery life. Take a leisurely walk around the area, surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills.
Return to Vicovu de Sus for a cozy dinner featuring locally sourced ingredients. Join in a folk dance event or music gathering if there's one happening, immersing yourself in the community's vibrant traditions. Cap off the night with a warm drink at a local café as you unwind from the day’s adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🍺Local beer | $2-4 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.5-1 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short trip) | $3-8 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $25-45 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Tranquil rural setting with Bucovina charm
- Proximity to UNESCO wooden churches and scenic hills
- Limited nightlife and fewer high-end amenities
- Longer drives required for major sights and airports
- "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?
Places to Visit in Vicovu de Sus
Visit one of these nice places.
Cobbled lanes, wooden houses, and colorful facades offer warm, textured shots and candid village life.
Gentle water reflections, willows, and rural bridges that make serene landscape photography.
Classic wooden churches with carved portals and shingle rooftops; a quintessential Bucovina photo opportunity within a short drive.
Open fields and rolling hills provide dramatic golden-hour silhouettes and long shadows.
Food in Vicovu de Sus
Vicovu de Sus Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cabbage rolls served with cornmeal polenta (mămăligă) and smântână; a Bucovina staple in guesthouses and traditional restaurants.
Must-Try!
Tripe soup with sour cream and vinegar, a comforting starter in colder months.
Polenta topped with burduf cheese and sometimes smântână; a rustic, flavorful dish.
Vegetable spread (peppers, eggplant, tomatoes) perfect on country bread.
Savory pastries filled with cheese; a popular bite for breakfast or tea-time.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market stalls selling fresh dairy, vegetables, cured meats, and homemade preserves; try zacuscă and cheeses.
Open-air grills and small stalls offering grilled meats, warm pastries, and coffee near the market area.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite hello (Bună ziua) when entering a shop or meeting someone; a handshake is common.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; remove hats indoors where appropriate and observe local customs.
Polite, friendly conversation; avoid sensitive topics like politics or border issues in casual settings.
Safety
Tipping in Vicovu de Sus
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, rounding the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common if service is not included. Taxis and guides may appreciate a small tip.
Cash in Romanian leu (RON) is widely accepted; many places also accept card payments, especially in towns. ATMs are available in nearby towns; smaller venues may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with occasional showers; long daylight hours ideal for outdoor trails and markets. Stay hydrated and pack sun protection.
Colorful countryside as leaves turn; comfortable temperatures for hiking; harvest festivals and local markets begin.
Cold, with possible snow; some rural roads may be slippery; cozy indoor meals and hot drinks become popular.
Mild temperatures and blooming orchards; great for walking and photography, with rain showers possible.
Vicovu de Sus at Night
Hiking in Vicovu de Sus
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic 3-6 km loop through meadows and forests around the village for easy day hikes.
Moderate 5-10 km route along the Suceava river with village views and small bridges.
Longer route to nearby monasteries like Voroneț, Sucevița, and Pătrăuți with scenic hills; combine culture and hiking.
Airports
How to reach Vicovu de Sus by plane.
Regional airport serving northern Romania; around 70-90 km by road from Vicovu de Sus.
Major hub in Moldova region; roughly 170-200 km away and accessible by road or rail.
Regional airport about 150-190 km away; provides connections to European cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnicity with Orthodox Christian traditions.
Some Ukrainian residents and border-area families; bilingual signs are uncommon but friendly locals speak Romanian and some may understand Ukrainian.
Roma communities present in rural areas contributing to cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Most popular sport; you'll see local pitches and casual games on weekends.
Common in schools and community clubs; occasional local games.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Vicovu de Sus.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most eateries; ask for zacuscă, mămăligă cu brânză, roasted vegetables, and dairy-based dishes. Many places can adjust soups and stews to be meat-free.