Top-rated places to visit in Southwest Romania, Romania

4.5 Parcul Nicolae Romanescu (269 reviews)
- Very nice park☺️
Parks

Quite place. Nice view. The zoo is poor. Good for jogging. Nice lake. Beautiful gardens... Worth to visit. See more..
5.0 Transalpina (188 reviews)
- One of the best roads in Romania
Scenic Drives

Compared to Transfagarasn road the asphalt here is simply amazing. There are no holes, no dirt or oil. The view is incredible and if you go with the motorcycle as i did you will put the day as "one of your best day on the bike". A lot of curves and so many stops where you can enjoy the nature. See more..
4.5 Statue of King Decebalus (178 reviews)
- Imposing statue
Spent < 1 hour Monuments & Statues

This imposing stone-carved statue sits overlooking the river Danube. It measures approximately 55m in height and dominates the immediate area. We were on a Viking river cruise and unfortunately, the heavens opened as we sailed past so only viewed it through rain-drenched windows. It was a pity as it was one of the things I really wanted to see. It was carved in the early 1990s but is still worth viewing. See more..
4.5 Cozia Monastery (146 reviews)
- 14'th century magnificent monastery
Spent 2-3 hours Religious Sites

This is one the most beautiful churches in the Southern Romania, located in the most magnificent natural scenery. The church is a must stop on the Valea Oltului highway, one of the two main highways that link Southern Romania with Transylvania. Be sure to step out behind the monastery courtyard and admire the dam lake on the Olt river. You can take also a boat tour. I liked the vivid frescos in the church portico and the icons inside, everything exquisitely proportioned. See more..
4.5 Iron Gates (139 reviews)
- Great idea for a weekend
Spent More than 3 hours Geologic Formations

I took a boat ride with "Prințesa Dunării" of approximately 3 hours from Orșova. The captain gave short details about all the stops on the ride and we had drinks and coffee and ice cream on the boat from which to choose from - not included in the ticket but prices were decent. The ticket was 50 Ron per person and we departed at 3.30 pm. Overall a must see while in Orsova. See more..
4.5 Danube Valley (98 reviews)
- Danube Valley. Spectacular !
Geologic Formations

Danube Valley. Simply gorgeos ! The central point is the statue of Decebal the King of the Dacians. Even now, after two thousand years, The,King still guards the borders of his country. The statue is spectacular for it's size and for the carving technique. Like the american presidents, The king of the Dacians is carved directly in the mountain. You can go there either by car or by foot, but the most inspired way would be by boat on the Danube. I will be back for more ! See more..
5.0 Infinity Column (95 reviews)
- the greatest of them all. Brancusi's.
Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks

Situated on the opposite side of the city on the same street axis with the Kiss's Gate the column is visible from far away due to its size. Is located in the middle of the park with the same name. Stictly guarded is some times very hard to get a special photo. Pay attention that in order to reach it from the city you have to pass the railway on an poorly signalised pathway. One of the most important landmarks of Romania: Enjoy! See more..
4.5 Craiova's Art Museum (87 reviews)
- Small but with many good exhibits
Spent More than 3 hours Speciality Museums

Unbelievable- thought somehow small, you can find known artists and sculptures. The "kiss" - the original is there! See more..
4.5 Horezu Monastery (Hurezi Monastery) (79 reviews)
- Horezu Monastery - beautiful pastoral setting
Religious Sites

Horezu Monastery sits beyond the small village in a hilly setting with fruit trees and hay. The long cobblestone path takes the visitor upwards and out towards the fortified walls made with brick and stone (similar to the oldest church in Cortes de Arges). This monastery features intricate carved details in the stonework not seen in other monasteries. Definitely worth the trip. The surrounding area is also rich in weaving/tapestry making and pottery, with the distinctive rooster motif. A cultural center at the entrance to the monastery, where the parking lot is, displays regional costumes and handicrafts. See more..
4.5 The Gate Of The Kiss (79 reviews)
- The Unique Brancusi
Points of Interest & Landmarks • Monuments & Statues

The Gate of the Kiss is one the 3 great pieces of the monumental art of Bracusi which are in Targu Jiu. Maybe you never was kissed under this gate, but for sure you will remember all your life that one day you stood here. Many things about this great piece of art you can read for sure on net. If you come in Targu Jiu you can not miss to see it! See more..
4.5 Grădina Botanică Craiova (Botanical Garden) (76 reviews)
- Magical autumn
Gardens

Very beautiful place to take a walk with the persoan you love,beautiful litle lakes,the best thing to ser in Craiova See more..
3.5 Craiova Musical Fountain (65 reviews)
- A better artesian variant could be chosen for an old center
Fountains

I haven't heard the fountain sing for many years. Now it works like a simple artesian well and harmoniously completes the area of parks and old buildings. Personally, I am more satisfied with its discreet operation now than with the noisy operation of the years when it worked with music. See more..
4.5 Piața Mihai Viteazul (63 reviews)
- Nice old center
Parks

This is the central square of the town. Not very far will find the city hall. There are several beautiful parks around. Always the area is very crowded because the parents or grandparents come with children to play, and also it is a favored place for young people who enjoyed to stay to the garden restaurants. A must see in Craiova. See more..
4.5 Ocnele Mari Salt Mine (61 reviews)
- Small city underground
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks • Mines

It's just like a small town underground. They have restaurants, church, small cinema, gift shop, clean toilets, big area for kids to play and as well with activities for kids and adults such as basketball and football and tennis and many others. It's a really nice place to go and visit. The food is good in restaurants and isn't expensive. Loved it and for sure will go back soon. See more..
4.5 Table of Silence (55 reviews)
- First in the row of three Brancusi's urban sculpture
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Situated in the same central park as Gate of Kisses this round stone table with its chairs stand proud near Jiu's River banks. is the first of the three symbols of Tg Jiu urban sculptures by Brancusi. Enjoy ! See more..
4.5 The Women's Cave ( Pestera Muierii ) (42 reviews)
- Great cave
Caverns & Caves

During our trip we stopped and visited this cage. Wonderful place with so many interesting things to view. For almost 1 hour during our tour we saw and heard very interesting stories. I recommend to see it if you are near to the area. See more..
4.5 Manastirea Sf Ana / St Anne Monastery (39 reviews)
- Soaked in sun
Religious Sites

So are the fig trees, quinces and other fruit trees not to mention the flowers and luxury vegetation. This monastery is blessed to have such a location over the Danube in full sun. It feels like in heaven. It is a small wood building but well maintained and very quiet. A must see if you pass by to see the breathtaking Danube Gorge. Enjoy! See more..
4.5 Water Castle (38 reviews)
- The city seen from height
Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Castles

In 1914, The Water Castle (Castelul de apa) was opened. Considered an emblematic monument to the people of Severin, it gives identity to the city by being built in one of the major traffic roundabouts of the settlement. See more..
4.0 Electroputere Mall (37 reviews)
- Good place to shop
Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Shopping Malls

The biggest shopping center in Craiova, Electroputere Mall is located near the city center, on the main road crossing Craiova, Calea Bucuresti. EP Mall welcomes its visitors with the most varied selection of brands, restaurants and fun activities. It features a full VIP Cinema with 7 halls, a food court with more than 20 restaurants, over 120 stores and an Auchan hypermarket. The retail park which includes the mall - Electroputere Parc - is in a continuous development; it features separate buildings with shops and office spaces in the West Wing. See more..
4.0 Cetatea Medievală a Severinului (35 reviews)
- Photogenic small fortress
Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings

Built in 1230, it had an overwhelming importance from the military point of view. In 1524 it is attacked and destroyed by Turkish troops led by Baliteg-Pasa. Severin Fortress or rather the ruins of the fortress are located in Dragalina park from Drobeta Turnu-Severin. See more..
3.0 Cozia AquaPark (30 reviews)
- Tare Parc de Apa, dar si super aglumerat uneori/ Nice water park, can be crowded at times
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Water Parks

Super parcul, frumos aenajat cu viziune in munti si padure. Aveau si tratament masaj pentru extra dinero$$. Am venit de tri ori aicia si totdeauna m-am simtit bine. Se pare ca e mai ok in cursul saptamani, dar weekendurile sant mai aglumerate. 25 lei intrarea sau 15 daca si stai la unul din hoteluri alaturi. Nice waterpark with great views of forest and mountains. they also have masaj treatment fro extra money. I came here on three seperate ocasions and was always please to soak and enjoy the slides with family and friends. The water is warm and great fro skin as it has sulfur and minerals in it. Seems better to visit, less crowded on the weekdays. It's 25 lei or 15 lei if a guest at one of the hotel next to it. See more..
4.5 Fantana arteziana / artesian well (29 reviews)
- Beautiful fountain to see at night
Spent More than 3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

Very nice water and lights show. The water pumps provide a moving show of water and the changing lights makes this fountain a good place to visit at night. See more..
4.5 Turnu Monastery (28 reviews)
- A real gem off the beaten path
Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

I've seen many monasteries but this location is different, as in extremely spectacular. Striking contract between the white monastery buildings and the mountains surrounding them. Very picturesque indeed. The road leading to it is also beautiful, right by the stunning Olt river, it is quite a treat to drive to it. There is also a small train station serving the monastery. If you are driving along Olt or going to Calimanesti you must make a small detour and stop here for a couple of hours, you will not regret it! See more..
4.0 Lotrisor Waterfall (27 reviews)
- Beautiful and relaxing
Waterfalls

It takes around 45 minutes with children from the parking place to the waterfall. The tax is 5 ron/adult at this moment. The walk is relatively easy and pleasant through the forest with amazing cliffs. The waterfall is nice to stay, relax and enjoy the view and sound of the water. See more..
4.5 Lainici Monastery (27 reviews)
- Lovely Monastery
Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

Visited again this lovely Monastery last week while I was in Targu Jiu. The place is located in Defileul Jiului and it's such a quiet place where you can relax and meditate. Definitely a must visit if you are in the area. See more..
3.0 Trajan's Bridge (27 reviews)
- Remains of a Roman bridge
Spent < 1 hour Bridges

Bridge of Apollodorus over the Danube was a Roman segmental arch bridge, the first to be built over the lower Danube. Though it was only functional for a few decades, for more than 1,000 years it was the longest arch bridge in both total and span length See more..
4.5 Muzeul Olteniei (25 reviews)
- Great museum. Didn't expect to be so nice.
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Speciality Museums

This museum was a nice surprise for us and for our 6 years old boy. It presents the Oltenia region starting with older times till today, it was really enjoyable and the staff nice and helpful. It's attractive and so pleasant to visit. See more..
4.5 Ski Vidra Transalpina (23 reviews)
- Small ski resort with amazing scenery
Ski & Snowboard Areas

The main slope makes you feel like you'll end up in the frozen lake, which add some extra-adrenaline. Visited the place in February 2019 and the access road from Voineasa was perfect. The storey parking is a great facility and the parking fee is reasonable (10 Lei/day, that's about 2 Euro). The ski-pass is also convenient, and the cableway works fine. However, they accept cash only. The main downside is the fact that the resort is located in the middle of nowhere. We found accommodation in Voineasa, which is 35 km away. The way to Voineasa is spectacular indeed, but driving 35 km after spending 5-6 hours in ski-boots is not the best way to end your day. Another downside is the total lenght of the ski runs - less than 6 km. Although there are not restaurants around the ski resort, there are some street food vans in front of the bottom cableway station. If you're hungry go to the one that sale "Virșli" sausages - they are really yummy with mustard, bread and beer. See more..
4.5 Pestera Veterani (23 reviews)
- Must visit
Spent More than 3 hours Caverns & Caves

You cannot miss it, if in the area! The location is great, well arranged with great and interesting history, also suitable for children. See more..
4.5 Polovragi Monastery (22 reviews)
- Amazing
Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

The Polovragi monastery complex is located at the foot of Piatra Polovragilor mountain near the Olteț Gorges , on the outskirts of Polovragi in Gorj County . It is close to the Polovragi Cave. Polovragi monastery is a convent dedicated to the Assumption, architectural monument of Romanian Land of the eighteenth century . It is classified as a historical monument. See more..
4.5 Village Museum of Valcea County (21 reviews)
- Great for a quiet afternoon
Speciality Museums

We stumbled upon this place and I am grateful for it. For a nominal fee of 3 RON, you get to roam around a vast area, looking at houses dating from centuries ago, reading about their importance in history and breathing in the fresh air that we (sometimes) miss in a big city. There's no time pressure, so feel free to take rests, look around, allow yourself to take it all in. You won't regret it. See more..
4.0 Zoo Ramnicu Valcea (19 reviews)
- Happy animals! Great maintenance!
Spent 2-3 hours Zoos

Great zoo, much better than the one in Bucharest! Although a bit smaller, it is very well built and organised, the cages are transparent (even the animal's sleeping grounds allow great visbility), so that if you go later in the afternoon you can still see smth. Very happy animals, clearly well looked after, on one of our visits we saw that both the lions and the tigers had cubs, as far as I know big cats don't procreate unless really comfortable and feel safe. You can touch the deer and lamas. They have cangaroos and coati, reptiles and all sorts of lovely animals! My son loves to feed the rabbits and the foxes. The entrance fee is close to nothing, which is also why we visit every chance we get, even if we feel like taking a walk, it sure beats the park! THere is a children's park and a picnic area, but you have to bring your own food and usually there is some birthday going on in that space. Check it out, you'll have a blast! See more..
4.5 Ostrov Monastery (18 reviews)
- Peace and quiet
Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks

Ostrov Monastery is a nunnery monastery dedicated to "The Birth of Our Lady" and is located on an island of the accumulation lake It was founded by Neagoe Basarab, between 1520-1521 Everything is clean, flowers everywhere, light a candle for lost persons or alive, and sit down, with your thoughts undisturbed, on a bench ... the time stops in place and you feel free of stress and lightly like a flake. See more..
4.5 Polovragi Cave (17 reviews)
- Start with this Cave!
Spent 1-2 hours Caverns & Caves

A beautiful natural cave formed at the begining of the Oltetului Canyon. See more..
4.5 Trovanti Museum Natural Reserve (16 reviews)
- Pietre care cresc.
Spent < 1 hour Nature & Wildlife Areas • Geologic Formations

Trovanti Museum Natural Reserve, is free and represents an interesting place to see. You can feel the nature and her wonders. See more..
4.5 Avincis - Vila Dobrusa Vineyard (16 reviews)
- Wonderful experience
Wineries & Vineyards

A perfect get away, only 3 hours drive from Bucharest. We were lucky enough to enjoy a beautiful late fall weather during the vineyard tour. Also I totally recommend the sampling of wines (two whites, two reds and one rose). The room we’ve stayed in was great but the apartments on top of the wine cellar would have been perfect as they offered beautiful views. The only thing not raising to the expectations was the food but there is always room for improvement. See more..
4.0 Castrul Roman Drobeta (15 reviews)
- History lesson
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Close to Trajan’s bridge built as a fort in the Roman province of Dacia. Built in 103 AD was the fist stone fortress built in Dacia with the main purpose of defending the Trajan’s bridge. The fort was hosting 500 solders. See more..
4.5 Muzeul Stiintele Naturii Oltenia (15 reviews)
- A gem of a museum
Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

Another pleasant surprise which came along with the other 2 museums (Casa Baniei and Muzeul Olteniei). We visited this museum with our 6 years old boy and we all enjoyed it a lot. It has paleontological discoveries along with flora and fauna exhibits and also with a small planetarium and some information about the solar system but very nice and well maintained. We were lucky and had the chance to also be part of a movie play in the planetarium. Our little one was amazed :). No matter how old are you, I really recommend a visit over here. See more..
4.5 Complexul Muzeal Maldaresti (14 reviews)
- Balkan history
Spent 1-2 hours History Museums

Being rich in the South West side of Walachia was not an easy task a few hundred years ago. Constantly targeted by various looters and Ottoman troops, the local landlords built their houses like defensive towers, surrounded by fortress type of walls. The structure name was cula, from Turkish word kula, meaning defensive tower. Just a few "cule" are still standing nowadays and the ones in Maldaresti are among the best preserved ones. They have even been used as movie setting for some historical Romanian movies (Aferim by Radu Jude is the most recent one) The Museum includes Cula Duca, Cula Greceanu (the oldest in Romania) and I.G Duca memorial house, which could be visited with the same ticket. A nice experience, overall. See more..
4.5 Parcul National Defileul Jiului (14 reviews)
- A drive to the natural park ... very beautiful
Spent More than 3 hours National Parks

Between the cities of Targu Jiu and Petrosani you shall find the National Park "Defileiu Jiului" , a very nice patch of nature that really deserves protection and conservation for the next generations. Now we have been driving through the park , there was no time for taking 1 of the numerous hiking trials, nonetheless the experience was well worth it. The park is being crossed by the E79 road, and the views on both sides are absolutely beautiful. Obviously not as spectacular as in the Transfagarasan road or on the Transalpina, but still with a certain beautiful. Along the road you will find the Lainici monastery and various other sites that are well worth for visiting and several points where you can stop and take some very nice pictures. So when you are in the area and you are looking for an escape in nature ... check out this place ... See more..
4.5 Casa Baniei (14 reviews)
- Great museum.
Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums

This is the Ethnography Museum which in my opinion is not to be missed especially if you have kids with you. The building itself is full of history, it's really beautiful and a nice park is surrounding it. The visit of the museum with our boy (6 years old) was nice, pleasant, attractive and quite short. And also the staff smiling and very child friendly. I recommend a visit over here. In my opinion is the heart of Craiova. See more..
5.0 Danube Gorge (14 reviews)
- Gorgeous Danube Gorge
Spent 2-3 hours Geologic Formations

Took a boat tour, very friendly and knowledgeable guide. Don't bother to book, you can get one cheaper from the dock in Orsova. First time on Danube and already impressed. Very picturesque landscape. Next time..the other end, the Delta! See more..
4.0 Tismana Monastery (13 reviews)
- Beautiful Monastery
Religious Sites

one of the most well known Monastery in Romania. is the oldest Monastery still functional in whole Romania. Due to the fact that originally it was a cave covering this church, in the time of the Second World War here it was hidden the whole gold of the Nation Bank in order not to be stolen by the Germans and later by the Soviets army. They buried in the cave and then cover the entrance with big rocks and hide under the river that passes by. very interesting history lessons. Enjoy ! See more..
4.5 Arutela Roman Castrum (12 reviews)
- A testimony of the past
Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks

The Roman castrum Arutela is a historical monument near the town Călimănești. The building lies on the left bank of the Olt River, nearby the Cozia Monastery and the Turnu hydropower complex. It was built in 137 - 138 AD, and was mentioned until 220 - 223 AD. The fortress was built on the Traian way, the road to the north, to Sarmisegetuza, the main city of the ancient country of Dacia. See more..
5.0 Metropolitan Cathedral of St. Demetrius (12 reviews)
- Nice Metropolitan Cathedral of St Demetrius
Spent 1-2 hours Religious Sites • Churches & Cathedrals

Is near the center of Craiova, and next to Museem - Casa Baniei. It is a marvelous place and it worths to be visited See more..
3.5 Muzeul Regiunii Portilor de Fier / Iron Gates Museum (12 reviews)
- An interesting collection of archaeology, ethnography, natural sciences and art
Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Speciality Museums

The museum in Drobeta Turnu Severin covers a wide variety of themes, from traditional living to history, art, biology, science and others. Its antiquity section displays remains from the oldest permanent settlement in Europe, Schela Cladova and other objects from neolithic, bronze age and iron age. See more..
4.5 Podul lui Dumnezeu (11 reviews)
- a must see
Bridges • Geologic Formations

impressing. near hotel Conacu Boierului, walking distance. superb view. read the sign with the description. See more..
4.5 Parcul Tudor Vladimirescu (11 reviews)
- Lovely little park
Spent < 1 hour Parks • Gardens

Nice old park. Interesting water games, worth seeing at night. Located in the city center, right next to Medieval Fortress, Cultural palace, Artesian fountain. See more..
3.5 Arhiepiscopia Ramnicului (10 reviews)
- peace, religion and nature
Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

Positioned at the base of a hill in Ramnicu Valcea this head quarter of the churches in the county owns a big terrain full of orchards, meadows and forests. It's a delight to take a walk there and enjoy the nature while listening to the relaxing church music in the undertone See more..
3.5 Pestera Ponicova (9 reviews)
- By boat
Spent 1-2 hours Caverns & Caves

Ponicova Cave - the biggest cave in the Danube's Defile, south-east of Romania. See more..