Constanta is one of the oldest cities in Romania, located on the shores of the Black Sea. This city combines a rich history, cultural heritage and excellent recreational opportunities. Constanta attracts tourists with its historical sites, museums, beaches and entertainment for the whole family.
A short story
Constanta was founded in the 6th century BC. by Greek colonists called Tomis. Over time, the city became an important trade and cultural center. In the IV century AD Emperor Constantine the Great renamed the city in honor of his sister Constantia. Over the centuries, Constanta has survived Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman rule, which has left its mark on the city’s culture and architecture.
How to get there
We traveled from Kyiv, in our opinion the most optimal route is to go through Odesa, towards Izmail. You can easily get to Izmail in a day and even catch one of the evening ferries in Orlovka and spend the night on the territory of Romania. We decided to take our time and spend the night in Izmail, we arrived calmly, we filled up a full tank at the entrance to the city, so as not to waste time in the morning. We settled in a hotel Dream Hotel here you can have a very tasty dinner, which we did. There is also a car wash nearby where you can wash your car after a long journey. For those who do not plan to stop in Ukraine, but want to cross the border right away, after crossing the border, you can spend the night in Pensiunea Dunarea, this transit city is popular among travelers.
In the morning we went to the very first ferry Orlovka – Isaccea. Quite a convenient and fast way to get to Romania without stopping in Moldova. There were about a dozen cars in front of us, all of them had already passed and were waiting for the ferry. You pay the ticket price at the ticket office, go through passport control and wait for the ferry to open.
Don’t forget that you need medical insurance and a car policy “green card” – they will definitely check you at the border.
Further, after crossing the border to Constanta, about 200 km. In Romania, there are beautiful but narrow roads and many villages on the way, so follow the signs carefully.
What to see
The old Town
The old town of Constanta is the heart of the city, where history and modernity are intertwined. A walk through its picturesque cobbled streets is a journey through time, because here you can see the ruins of the ancient city of Tomis, majestic mosques and Orthodox cathedrals, which remind you of the city’s rich past.
Ruins of Tomis (Archaeological Park Tomis)
This is an archaeological park that covers the remains of the ancient city of Tomis, founded by Greek colonists in the 6th century BC. Tomis was an important trading center and military fortress for centuries, and its ruins bear witness to its rich past.
Karol I Mosque (Marea Moschee din Constanța)
Also known as the Great Mosque of Constanta, it is an impressive religious building. Built at the beginning of the 20th century, it is one of the most famous monuments of the city and testifies to the rich cultural heritage of Romania. The construction of the mosque was started in 1910 by the order of King Carol I of Romania. The construction was completed in 1913 and the mosque became the center of the Muslim community of Constanta.
Visit the main hall of the mosque, where you can admire its impressive domes, arches and stained glass windows. And be sure to climb the minaret of the mosque to enjoy a panoramic view of Constanta.
Work time:
The mosque is open to visitors from Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. On Fridays, the mosque is closed to visitors until 2:00 p.m.
Ticket price:
Entrance to the mosque costs 10 lei for adults and 5 lei for children.
Life hacks and tips:
The mosque is open to visitors every day. It is better to visit in the morning or in the afternoon to avoid the crowds. Visitors must dress appropriately: shoulders and knees must be covered. Women can take a headscarf with them. Climbing the minaret can be physically demanding.
Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul (Catedrala Sfinții Apostoli Petru și Pavel)
The cathedral is the main Orthodox church of the city and one of the most important religious objects in Romania. This majestic temple was built in honor of the holy apostles Peter and Paul. The cathedral building has a magnificent facade with decorative elements and mosaics.The interior is decorated with frescoes, icons and marble details. The iconostasis made in the traditional Orthodox style is especially impressive.
Casino Constanta (Cazino Constanța)
Cazino Constanța, is one of the most famous buildings in the city. Located on the Black Sea embankment. Built at the beginning of the 20th century, the casino served as a place of entertainment for the elite and tourists. The casino was built during the heyday of the city as a resort and became a symbol of luxury and elegance. It has survived several historical periods, including both world wars, and today is an important cultural and architectural object.
Plans to restore the casino include turning it into a cultural center or museum, allowing visitors to once again enjoy this architectural gem.
Although the casino is currently closed to the public, the building is open for outside viewing. The best time to visit is morning or evening, when the lighting creates a special atmosphere.
Constanta Casino Promenade
The Promenade of Constanta Casino is one of the most popular and most beautiful promenades in the city. Located along the shores of the Black Sea, this promenade stretches along the facade of the legendary Constanta Casino, giving visitors the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking seascapes.
Genoese lighthouse (Farul Genovez)
Located on the waterfront near the Casino of Constanta, this lighthouse has served as an important navigational facility for sailors for centuries.
House with Lions (Casa cu Lei)
It is an excellent example of architecture that combines elements of the Renaissance and Genoese styles. The name of the building comes from the four sculptures of lions that decorate the facade, located at the corners of the building. The House with Lions was built during the Romanian Golden Age, when Constanta was experiencing rapid economic development. The building served as the residence of Isaac Avramov and his family for many years.
Basilica of St. Anthony of Padua (Biserica Sfântul Anton de Padova)
A Catholic church, it was built in 1914 in honor of St. Anthony of Padua, an Italian Franciscan monk who is considered one of the most revered saints in the world. It is the largest Catholic church in Romania. A relic of St. Anthony of Padua is preserved in the basilica – a fragment of his relics. Every year on June 13, the feast of St. Anthony of Padua is celebrated in the basilica.
The basilica is open to visitors every day from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Entrance to the basilica is free, but a donation can be made.
Fleet Command Headquarters (Comandamentul Flotei)
The building was built between 1879 and 1881 according to the plans of the architect Oleksandr Oreshko in a neoclassical style with gables. Initially, the building served as a hotel and was called “Terminus”, later – “Karol”. Between 1924 and 1927, the building was expanded and became an officer’s dormitory, becoming part of the Military Circle. Since 1978, the building has been the headquarters of the Navy command. In 1982-1983, it was restored, preserving the neoclassical style.
Vitru Street (Strada Vântului)
It is the narrowest street in Romania, the length of the street is only 100 meters and the narrowest part of the street is only 60 centimeters wide. It is located in the Old Town of Constanta and is a popular tourist attraction. Stradela Vântului has existed since the Middle Ages, when Constanta was an important commercial and cultural center. The street has been partially restored to preserve its historical heritage and tourist appeal.
Along Stradela Vântului are old houses with characteristic architectural details such as tiled roofs, wooden shutters and stone facades. The street is paved with cobblestones, which gives it a special charm.
There is a cozy hotel nearby, popular among tourists Voila Inn with a terrace overlooking the sea and the old town.
Ovidia Square (Piața Ovidiu)
Ovidia Square is one of the popular squares of the city. It is named after the Roman poet Publius Ovidius Nazon, who was exiled to Tomis (modern Constanta) by order of Emperor Augustus.
Museums
Museum of National History and Archeology (Muzeul de Istorie Națională și Arheologie)
It is located in the historic building of the old town hall on Ovidia Square. Which was built in 1921. The architecture of the building combines elements of neoclassical and modern styles. The museum has one of the richest and most diverse collections of artifacts in Romania, covering periods from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages.
Historical exhibits:
Middle Ages: Weapons, armor, icons and other objects that reflect the medieval history of the region. The Ottoman Period: Textiles, Ceramics, and Documents Illustrating Life Under Ottoman Rule. Ethnographic collections: Traditional costumes, household items and tools reflecting the culture and lifestyle of the peoples of Dobrudja.
Glicon statue. A sculpture of a snake with a human head, one of the most important archaeological finds in the region. Tables with inscriptions. Epigraphic monuments that tell about the history and life of the ancient inhabitants of the region.
Work time:
Wednesday – Sunday, access from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (the last ticket is sold at 4:00 p.m.). Monday, Tuesday is a day off
Ticket price:
Adults: 20 lei. Students and pensioners: 5 lei (with the relevant certificate). Children (under 18): 5 lei
Museum of folk art (Muzeul de Artă Populară)
The Folk Art Museum was founded in 1975 to preserve and showcase Romanian folk arts and crafts. Over the years, the museum has collected a large collection of exhibits covering different regions of Romania and different periods of the development of folk art.The museum is located in a beautiful building, made in a traditional style, which in itself is part of the cultural heritage of Constanta.
Work time:
from Wednesday to Sunday from 09:00 to 17:00. Monday, Tuesday is a day off.
Ticket price:
Adults: 15 lei. Children, students 4 lei. Discounts may be available for groups and during special promotions. 30 lei – fee for photo/video.
Maritime Museum (Muzeul Marinei Române)
Founded in 1969, it is the largest naval museum in Romania. The museum presents a large collection of exhibits related to the history of the Romanian Navy, from ancient times to the present day. Exhibits include ships, weapons, uniforms, paintings and photographs. The museum also has a large library and archive. Here are some of the museum’s most popular exhibits: Steaua Dunajului frigate, the oldest ship in the Romanian fleet. Submarine “Delfinul” is the first Romanian submarine. And other famous ships and submarines of the Romanian Navy.
Work time:
from Tuesday to Sunday from 09:00 to 17:00. Monday is a day off.
Ticket price:
Adults: 20 lei. Children, students 10 lei.
Entertainment for children
Dolphinarium in Constanta (Delfinariul Constanța)
Located on the coast of the Black Sea. It features daily dolphin shows as well as shows with sea lions, seals and fur seals.
Opening hours: from 09:30 to 16:00.
Ticket price: Adults 60 lei. Children, students and pensioners 30 lei. There are discounts for groups and family tickets.
Aquapark “Aqua Magic”
“Aqua Magic” in Constanta is one of the largest and most popular water parks on the Black Sea coast. It is an ideal destination for families, offering a wide range of water attractions, pools and entertainment for visitors of all ages.
Opening hours: from 10:00 to 18:00.
Ticket price: the price depends on the season, adults 80-110 lei. Children 50-70 lei. There are discounts for groups and family tickets.
It was founded in 1970 and is one of the oldest planetariums in Romania. The planetarium has a projection room where you can see shows about the stars, planets and other celestial bodies. The shows are in Romanian, but English subtitles are also available. The planetarium also has a museum where you can learn about the history of astronomy and explore different types of telescopes.
Opening hours: from Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 to 17:00
Ticket price: adults 15 lei. Children 10 lei.
Cableway (Telegondola Mamaia)
Telegondola Mamaia is a cable car that runs along the Mamaia resort, stretching for a distance of about 2.1 km. It lifts visitors to a height of approximately 50 meters, providing breathtaking views with panoramic views of the Black Sea, Lake Siutgiol and the entire coast of Mamaia from above.
This is a must-visit place during your stay in Constanta that will add unforgettable experiences and beautiful memories to your trip.
Opening hours: Monday from 15:00 to 22:00, Tuesday to Sunday from 12:30 to 22:00
Ticket price: 30 lei, children under 7 are free
Tourist port of Constanta (Portul Turistic Tomis)
Constanta’s tourist port is located in close proximity to the historic city center, making it easily accessible for tourists. It serves as a marina for yachts and boats and is the starting point for various sea excursions. Restaurants, cafes and shops are located along the port, creating a lively atmosphere.
Sea vacation
Constanta, located on the Black Sea coast, is known for its many beaches that attract tourists from different parts of the world. Constanta’s beaches offer ideal conditions for relaxation, swimming and various water sports.
The best time to visit Constanta’s beaches is from June to September, when the sea is warmest and the weather is favorable for beach recreation. The average summer temperature is 25°C (77°F), the average summer water temperature is 23°C (73°F). Some beaches have an entrance fee or equipment rental, while others are free to the public.
The most popular beaches of Constanta
Mamaia beach This is the most famous beach of Constanta. It stretches for 8 kilometers and offers a wide range of amenities including restaurants, bars, cafes, shops and water attractions. Hotels are located on a spit near the sea, which makes them very attractive for recreation on the first line.
Eforie Nord Beach This beach is known for its healing mud baths. It also offers a wide range of other amenities including hotels, sanatoriums, restaurants and bars. It is an ideal place for those who are looking for a quiet beach holiday with their family or who want to combine relaxation with health treatments. The resort offers excellent conditions for swimming, medical procedures and relaxation on the shores of the Black Sea.
Residence
Constanta is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the Black Sea coast. The city offers many accommodation options that will satisfy the needs of every tourist. From luxurious hotels to cozy apartments and guest houses – everything is here for your comfort. The apartment in which we stayed Studio Vivo Granvia. If you have any questions about placement, write in the comments below this post.
Here are some of the most popular hotels in Constanta:
Hotel Vega Constanta– located in the resort of Mamaia, offers elegant rooms with sea views. The rooms have air conditioning, free internet access, a safe and a flat-screen TV. In the bathroom, guests will find bathrobes, slippers and a hairdryer. The hotel has an outdoor pool with a children’s area, a beauty salon, a fashion boutique and a guarded parking lot. Guests can enjoy a hearty breakfast, light meals for lunch and a festive dinner or cocktail accompanied by live music. The hotel is located 5 km from the center of Constanta.
Popular restaurants and cafes
Constanta is known for its diverse gastronomic scene, where tourists can enjoy both traditional Romanian cuisine and international dishes. Here are some of the most popular restaurants and cafes in Constanta where you can try delicious food and drinks.
Pescăria lui Matei $$ – this is one of the most popular seafood restaurants in Constanta, which is a must-visit for all lovers of fresh fish and seafood. Located on the very shore of the Black Sea, which provides an unparalleled view and atmosphere. On the menu you will find a wide selection of fish dishes prepared according to traditional recipes using local ingredients.Recommendations: Fish soup, grilled fish, assorted seafood, which allows you to try several dishes at the same time.
MOFT Delishop Tomis $ – is a modern institution in Constanta, which combines a gourmet shop and a cafe. It offers a wide selection of high-quality delicacies, exquisite food and drinks, creating an ideal destination for gourmets and lovers of good food. Recommendations: A variety of appetizers, including pickled vegetables, olives, cheeses and meat delicacies, fresh salads, various types of pasta, prepared according to authentic Italian recipes. And, of course, this is a variety of desserts, from traditional cakes to exquisite mousses and cakes. A wide range of local and international wines. Premium varieties of coffee and original cocktails and freshly squeezed juices for those who like to experiment with flavors.
Excursions
Parking lots
Parking in Constanta, as in any tourist city, can be a challenge, especially during the tourist season. Below are some useful tips and information about parking in the city to make your stay more comfortable.
We immediately faced the problem that all the parking lots we found could be paid for only in the application or via SMS payment.
Therefore, we advise you to install in advance the Constanta Parking app, specially designed for residents and visitors of Constanta to facilitate the process of finding and paying for parking in the city, or the TPARK app, a multi-functional app that helps with parking, paying road tolls and vehicle insurance in Romania.
You can also pay at the parking meter, but we did not meet them in Constanta. You can usually pay with coins or a card. Be sure to keep the payment receipt, which must be placed on the dashboard of the car. There is another way to pay for parking via SMS or on the website.
More details about parking lots and payment methods can be found in our post ⇒ Parking lots in Constanta, Romania
Shopping in Constanta
Constanta offers great shopping opportunities to suit all tastes and budgets. From large shopping malls to small boutiques and gift shops, the city has many places to find everything you need.
VIVO! Constanța – it is one of the largest and most popular shopping centers in Constanta, offering a diverse selection of shops, entertainment and dining options. It is an ideal place for shopping, relaxing and spending time with family or friends.VIVO! Constanța has more than 150 shops, various restaurants where you can eat deliciously while shopping.
Conclusion and tips for visiting Constanta
Constanta is an ideal place to combine a beach holiday with cultural and historical discoveries. This city on the shores of the Black Sea offers many opportunities for all types of travelers.
- Preliminary planning:
- Decide in advance on the main attractions you want to visit. This will help to optimally organize your time and not miss the most interesting things.
- Consider accommodation options that suit your needs and book your hotel in advance, especially during the summer holiday season.
- Cultural and historical discoveries:
- Do not miss the opportunity to visit such iconic places as the Karol I Mosque, the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul, the Old Town Hall, the Constanta Casino, the Museum of National History and Archeology and other attractions.
- Plan enough time for excursions to fully immerse yourself in the history and culture of the city.
- Beach vacation:
- Choose from popular beaches such as Mamaia, Eforie Nord, Modern Beach and others. Consider the peculiarities of each beach.
- Pay attention to the beach infrastructure: restaurants, cafes, entertainment and water attractions.
- Restaurants and local cuisine:
- Try traditional Romanian dishes at local restaurants such as Hugo, Reyna, Bacaro Port and others.
- Pay attention to establishments that specialize in seafood, Italian cuisine, and a Greek tavern.
- Parking:
- Use the TPARK or Constanta Parking app to find and pay for parking spaces.
- Paying for parking via SMS to 7475 is also a convenient option.
- Avoid rush hour for more convenient travel and always have change for parking meters with you.
- Convenience of movement:
- Download mobile applications for convenient movement and parking.
- Use public transport or rent a car for comfortable travels around the city and its surroundings.
Conclusion
Whatever your interests, Constanta has something special for everyone. From beautiful beaches to fascinating historical sites, this city will leave you with an unforgettable experience. Enjoy your visit, discover new places and create great memories in Constanta.
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