Zalău

Zalău is a picturesque city located in northwestern Romania, known for its rich history and beautiful architecture. It serves as the capital of Sălaj County and is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes. The city is home to several cultural attractions, including museums, historical sites, and traditional festivals.

Zalău offers a charming and laid-back atmosphere, making it a delightful destination for travelers seeking to explore the beauty of Romania.

Places to visit

Key Phrases

Speak like a local

  • "Buna ziua (Hello)" - Hello
  • "Multumesc (Thank you)" - Thank you
  • "Scuzați-mă (Excuse me)" - Excuse me
  • "Te rog (Please)" - Please
  • "La revedere (Goodbye)" - Goodbye

Day plans

Spend a day exploring around

day 1

Exploring Zalu

morning:Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Salaj County Museum, where you can learn about the region's history. For a delicious breakfast, head to Café Creme and enjoy their mouthwatering pastries.

afternoon:Spend your afternoon exploring the breathtaking Jibou Botanical Garden, home to a diverse collection of plants and flowers. For a satisfying lunch, try the local favorite, Restaurant Miorita, for traditional Romanian dishes.

evening:For a delightful evening, visit Herastrau Park and take a relaxing walk around the lake, enjoying the scenic views. Then, head to Club Bambus for a fun night-out.

day 2

Cultural Immersion in Zalu

morning:Immerse yourself in history with a visit to Simleul Silvaniei Fortress, an impressive medieval stronghold. Indulge in a hearty breakfast at Patiserie Verona for a perfect start to your day.

afternoon:Discover the rich heritage of Zalău at the Art Museum, which showcases a diverse collection of local and national artworks. For a delightful lunch, try the authentic dishes at Restaurant Crinul.

evening:Experience the vibrant local culture at Vulturul Negru, a popular live music venue, for a memorable night-out in Zalău.

day 3

Nature and Relaxation

morning:Start your day with a peaceful walk through the picturesque Simion Bărnuțiu Central Park, surrounded by lush greenery. Grab a delicious breakfast at Pizzeria Del Corso to fuel up for the day.

afternoon:Savor the tranquility of Nature Resurgent Park, known for its serene atmosphere and enchanting landscapes. For a satisfying lunch, visit Restaurant La Castel and enjoy a variety of local and international dishes.

evening:Unwind and enjoy the beauty of the sunset at Sub Arini Park, followed by a delightful evening at Arena Pub for a relaxed night-out.

day 4

Traditional Cuisine and Entertainment

morning:Embark on a culinary journey by visiting the Central Market, where you can explore a wide array of local produce and traditional specialties. Try local delicacies for breakfast at the market's food stalls.

afternoon:Sample authentic Romanian flavors at Restaurant Castel, known for its hearty traditional dishes and welcoming ambiance. After lunch, take a leisurely stroll around the city center and visit the local artisan shops.

evening:Immerse yourself in the vibrant local nightlife at Club Crush, a popular spot for great music and lively atmosphere to enjoy a fantastic night-out in Zalău.

Zalău Famous Food

Must-Try local dishes

Ciorbă de perișoare

A savory meatball soup with a sour touch, often made with fresh vegetables and served with sour cream. Try it at Casa Ardeleana or Restaurant Zălăuan.

Must-Try!

Varză a la Cluj

A delicious stew of cabbage with smoked meats and sausages, seasoned to perfection. Sample this dish at Restaurant Anda or Carpati.

Papanași

Indulge in these delectable cheese doughnuts served with sour cream and jam, a popular dessert found at Cofetăria Dana or La Piața Veche.

Food Markets & Street Food

A food market and street food guide

Piața Agroalimentară Zalău

Visit this bustling food market for a vibrant assortment of fresh produce, local cheeses, meats, and baked goods. Don't miss the opportunity to savor freshly prepared mici (grilled ground meat rolls) and covrigi (soft pretzels).

Street Food Festival Zalău

Keep an eye out for the annual street food festival, where you can relish a wide range of gourmet street foods, from sizzling grilled meats to innovative vegetarian and vegan options.

Things to do in Zalău

Unique local experiences...

Pet sitters in Zalău

Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!

Popular cities in Romania

Explore local food, attractions and more!

BucharestCluj-NapocaIaşiConstanţaTimişoaraBraşovCraiovaGalaţiOradeaPloieştiBrăilaAradPiteştiBacăuSibiuTârgu-MureşBaia MareBuzăuRâmnicu VâlceaSatu MareBotoşaniSuceavaReşiţaDrobeta-Turnu SeverinPiatra NeamţBistriţaTârgu JiuTârgovişteFocşaniTulceaAlba IuliaSlatinaVasluiCălăraşiGiurgiuPopeşti-LeordeniDevaBârladHunedoaraFloreştiSfântu-GheorgheRomanVoluntariTurdaMiercurea-CiucSloboziaAlexandriaBragadiruMediaLugojMedgidiaNăvodariOneştiPantelimonTecuciSighetu MarmaţieiMangaliaDejOdorheiu SecuiescPetroşaniSăcelePaşcaniRâmnicu SăratReghinMioveniCâmpinaBorşaCâmpulungFeteştiCaracalSebeşFăgăraşCurtea de ArgeşHuşiRădăuţiSighişoaraFălticeniDorohoiOlteniţaRoşiori de VedeCisnădieOtopeniCaransebeşZărneştiAiudTârnăveniCâmpia TurziiBufteaCodleaDumbrăviţaComăneştiGherlaVulcanMoineştiPetrilaTurnu MăgureleCugirDuduCareiLupeniTârgu NeamţBlajOrăştieBăicoiValu lui TraianTârgu SecuiescRoşuBalşMotruBăileştiRâşnovGheorgheniSalontaCâmpulung MoldovenescDrăgăşaniMoreniVişeu de SusAdjudVicovu de SusTopoloveniOraviţaMoiseiTituPoienile de sub MunteMoldova NouăBabadagCovasnaMurfatlarSângeorgiu de MureşCajvanaTunari