Things To Do
in Zalău
Zalău is the county seat of Sălaj in Transylvania, Romania, set on the Crasna River with gently rolling hills surrounding it. The city blends a historic core with green spaces and a relaxed, friendly vibe. Its Austro-Hungarian and Romanian architectural influences add character to streets lined with cafes and markets.
Zalău serves as a convenient base for exploring nearby nature reserves and regional culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Zalău County Museum, which showcases the rich history and artifacts of the region. Stroll through the picturesque streets to admire the stunning architecture of St. Nicholas Church, which dates back to the 14th century. Take advantage of the morning sunlight to capture beautiful photographs of these historic landmarks.
After lunch at a local bistro, continue your exploration at the Reformed Church and the nearby ruins of the Roman fort, Porolissum, situated on a hilltop. You'll get a chance to hike through the scenic surroundings while learning about the ancient Roman presence in the area. Make sure to keep an eye out for the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant in the town center for a taste of traditional Romanian cuisine. Enjoy a leisurely meal with local specialties accompanied by a glass of wine from the nearby vineyards. After dinner, take a serene walk around the illuminated streets, soaking in the charm of Zalău at night.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a hiking expedition to the nearby Meses Mountains. The fresh air and breathtaking scenery will invigorate you as you traverse the various trails. Keep your camera handy to capture the vibrant flora and fauna that thrive in this natural paradise.
Enjoy a packed lunch amid nature, using the opportunity to relax and admire your surroundings. After lunch, consider visiting the iconic Răstoci Waterfall, a hidden gem that promises stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. Take some time to appreciate the tranquility and perhaps even dip your toes in the refreshing water.
Return to Zalău for a soothing evening at a local spa or wellness center, where you can unwind after a long day of adventure. Treat yourself to a rejuvenating massage or a soak in a hot tub, letting the stresses of the day melt away. To end the day, find a quaint café, sip on a warm beverage, and enjoy the calm ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | $25-40 |
| 🚌Public transport one-way ticket | $0.5-1 |
| 🏠Rent for 1-bedroom apartment (city center) | $350-600 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful base for exploring Transylvania with affordable prices and friendly locals.
- Good access to nature and nearby mountains for day trips.
- Limited nightlife compared to big cities.
- Some tourist services outside the city center may be limited.
- "Bună ziua" - Hello / Good day
- "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
- "Vă rog" - Please
- "Nu vorbesc românește foarte bine" - I don't speak Romanian very well
- "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Zalău
Visit one of these nice places.
The museum façade and surrounding squares offer elegant architectural lines for photography.
A scenic riverside walk with green spaces, bridges, and reflections at different times of day.
Central square with historic buildings, ideal for golden-hour shots.
Domed churches and traditional facades provide vivid architectural photography opportunities.
Food in Zalău
Zalău Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cabbage rolls filled with meat and rice, commonly served with polenta.
Must-Try!
Polenta with cheese and sour cream, a comforting staple.
Tripe soup seasoned with herbs and vinegar.
Sweet cheese doughnuts topped with sour cream and jam.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market with fresh regional produce, dairy, meats, and baked goods.
Covered market area where you can sample street bites and local ingredients.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake; use formal language with strangers until told otherwise; addressing by title is common.
Polite table manners; say 'poftă bună' before meals and 'mulțumesc' after.
Dress modestly in churches; remove hats in religious spaces; speak softly in sacred places.
Safety
Tipping in Zalău
Ensure a smooth experience
A small tip of 5-10% in restaurants if service charge isn't included.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments common; smaller vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming trees; light jacket recommended and be prepared for occasional rain.
Warm, sunny days with occasional heat; stay hydrated and use sun protection.
Cooling temperatures and colorful foliage; ideal for scenic walks and photography.
Cold with potential snowfall; layer up and check road conditions for countryside trips.
Zalău at Night
Hiking in Zalău
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic ridge walk just outside the city offering panoramic views.
Forest trails near the city suitable for half-day hikes and nature walks.
Airports
How to reach Zalău by plane.
Approximately 120-150 km away by road; best reached by car or bus via Cluj-Napoca.
Smaller regional airport about 60-90 km from Zalău; connections primarily to Bucharest and nearby cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant group with minority Hungarians and Roma communities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region with local clubs and fans.
A strong presence with local teams and youth programs.
Active outdoors culture with local trails and events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zalău.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Romanian dishes can be adapted for vegetarians; opt for mamăligă-based plates with mushrooms or vegetables, and request vegetable stock when available.