Ford Otosan Milestone
Ford Otosan Craiova reached the historic milestone of one million Ford Puma vehicles produced in Romania. The plant celebrated this major achievement for the local automotive industry during a special ceremony.
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Craiova
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ℹ️Practical info — Craiova
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🌤 Weather — 5 days
📍 Nearby
Sights nearby
💡 Tips
- The Nicolae Romanescu Park is massive; rent a bike near the entrance to cover more ground easily.
- Visit the historic center in the evening when the illuminated musical fountains in Piața Mihai Viteazul start their show.
- Oltenian people are known to speak quite fast; don't be afraid to ask locals to repeat if you know some Romanian.
- Use the local tram network for an authentic, efficient, and cheap way to traverse the city.
🍽 Food
🍽
Praz (Leek) Dishes
Oltenia is famous for leeks. Try local variations of leek soups or stews at traditional Romanian restaurants in the center.
🍽
Ciolan cu fasole
Pork knuckle with beans, a hearty dish best enjoyed with a strong local plum brandy (țuică).
🍽
Covrigi
Grab these warm, pretzel-like snacks from street-side bakeries near the university or the center.
🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots
🛍
Oltenian Pottery
Look for traditional ceramics from Horezu, often sold in souvenir shops or artisan fairs in the old town.
🛍
Piața Centrală
The massive central market where you can buy fresh regional produce, local cheeses, and cured meats.
🧘
Nicolae Romanescu Park
Stroll around the lake or visit the suspended bridge in this massive, romantic-style park.
🧘
Botanical Garden
A quiet and beautifully maintained space near the university, well-suited for a relaxing afternoon read.
Water temperature…
Highlights of 2026
3
New Flight to Venice
Craiova International Airport officially inaugurated a new direct flight route to Venice-Treviso, operated by Wizz Air. The service runs twice a week and marks a significant expansion of the region's international connectivity.
Football Champions Named Honorary Citizens
The players of Universitatea Craiova were named Honorary Citizens of the city following their historic league and cup double. Thousands of fans celebrated the first such achievement in 35 years during an emotional ceremony at the City Hall.
Craiova, the historical capital of Oltenia, stands as a major urban hub in southwestern Romania, strategically positioned on the Jiu River. Its origins trace back to the Dacian settlement of Pelendava, evolving through the Middle Ages into the seat of the Banie, the highest administrative office in Wallachia after the reigning Prince. The city's identity is deeply rooted in this political heritage, reflected in its aristocratic architecture and imposing public buildings. Today, Craiova is a powerhouse of Romanian industry, notably hosting a massive Ford automotive plant that drives the local economy. Beyond industry, it is a city of immense cultural and natural beauty. The Nicolae Romanescu Park, spanning over 90 hectares, is a masterpiece of landscape architecture that earned a gold medal at the 1900 Paris World Expo. The city's Art Museum, housed in the opulent Jean Mihail Palace, features a world-class collection, including the early masterpieces of the visionary sculptor Constantin Brâncuși. Education is a cornerstone of the community, with the University of Craiova serving as a prestigious center for research and learning. The demographic profile is characterized by a lively, educated population that fuels the city's modern service sector and lively arts scene. Craiova's Theater, named after Marin Sorescu, is internationally acclaimed, frequently participating in global festivals. As a transport gateway, the city benefits from an international airport and a crucial railway junction, connecting the Balkan region with the heart of Europe. Ongoing urban development projects aim to transform Craiova into a green, smart city while meticulously preserving its rich historical legacy. Since 1 January 2025, Romania has been a full Schengen member, allowing Craiova Airport to operate check-free connections within the wider Schengen area.
- Location: Dolj, Romania
- Top sights: Nicolae Romanescu Park · Craiova Art Museum · Museum of Oltenia
- Nearby: Balș (24 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -2 | 1 | 6 | 12 | 17 | 22 | 24 | 24 | 19 | 12 | 6 | 0 |
| Rain mm | 44 | 40 | 47 | 49 | 75 | 84 | 71 | 50 | 54 | 59 | 50 | 52 |
Geography
Facts
- Craiova is the 6th most populous city in Romania.
- The Romanescu Park is the largest natural park in Eastern Europe.
- The city's Ford factory produced its 1 millionth vehicle in 2021.
- The University of Craiova is one of the top 10 universities in the country.
- The Jean Mihail Palace was built between 1899 and 1907.
- Craiova International Airport serves as a regional hub for Oltenia.
- The city's Art Museum contains the famous sculpture 'The Kiss' by Brâncuși.
- Craiova was the second city in Europe to have electric street lighting.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Craiova (13)
Frequently asked questions
Which park is a must-visit in Craiova?
Nicolae Romanescu Park is one of the largest natural public parks in Europe.
Where can I find works by Constantin Brâncuși?
The Craiova Art Museum in Jean Mihail Palace displays several important sculptures.
Is the Christmas market worth visiting?
Yes, it is consistently ranked among the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe.
What is the climate like in summer?
Summer can be very hot, often exceeding 35°C; the parks offer good shade.
What is the symbol of the city?
The Jean Mihail Palace and the renovated historical center are iconic symbols.
Craiova: where is it located?
Craiova is located in Dolj, Romania.
Craiova: what is there to see?
Highlights include Nicolae Romanescu Park, Craiova Art Museum, Museum of Oltenia.
Craiova: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug, Sep.
Craiova: why is it worth visiting?
Craiova, the historical capital of Oltenia, stands as a major urban hub in southwestern Romania, strategically positioned on the Jiu River.
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Dăbuleni
Dăbuleni is a distinctive town in Dolj County, located in the southern extremity of Romania, within the historical region of Oltenia.
Poiana Mare
Poiana Mare is a significant settlement located in Dolj County, positioned in the vast Oltenian Plain of southern Romania.
Sadova
Sadova is a significant commune in the southern part of Dolj County, Oltenia region, located near the Danube River.
Segarcea
Segarcea is a historic town in Dolj County, located in the heart of the Oltenia region, southwestern Romania.
History & landmarks
More places
Marin Sorescu National Theatre Craiova
The Marin Sorescu National Theatre in Craiova is one of Romania's most important theatres, internationally known for its festivals.
Statue of Mihai Viteazul Craiova
The statue of the ruler Mihai Viteazul in Craiova honors the historical figure and his contribution to national unification.
Craiova Administrative Palace
The administrative building in Craiova is an imposing 20th-century structure.
Oltenia Museum Craiova
The Oltenia Museum in Craiova showcases the ethnographic and historical diversity of the Oltenia region.
Craiova Zoo
Part of Nicolae Romanescu Park, one of the largest in Eastern Europe.
Ford Otosan Craiova
A modern automotive factory producing Ford models for the European market.