Constanța in Romania

If you have already traveled to Bucharest, Romania’s capital, and are wondering what else Romania has to offer, then you should definitely pay a visit to the fascinating city of Constanta! This beautiful city is located on the Romanian Black Sea coast and is considered the second most important city in the country. It impresses visitors with its endless sandy beach and the many winding alleyways. In addition, Constanta is one of the oldest cities in the country. Today, this unique city combines remnants of long-past eras with modernity. Let the atmosphere of Constanta enchant you and dive into its interesting history.

History of the city

Constanta is known as one of the most popular port cities in Romania and has existed since the 7th century BC. However, this beautiful city was not founded by Romanians, but by the Greeks. They laid the foundation for today’s Constanta and turned it into a famous trading city right on the Black Sea. Over the centuries, however, the city changed. After the Greeks came the Romans, who reshaped the cityscape and influenced the style of its buildings. The Bulgarians also influenced Constanta and conquered the city at times. Ultimately, however, it must be emphasized that the city belongs to Romania—and still does today.

Although Constanta had long fulfilled its role as a trading city, it gained increasing fame especially in the 1930s. To this day, the seaside city is therefore known as a hub of trade and attracts visitors with countless shopping options, department stores, and its endless sandy beach.

The city’s history still adorns it in all its splendor, and so the beautiful cityscape includes not only old masonry, but also representatives of the modern era. In Constanta, remnants of another time meet modern buildings that definitely draw attention and delight visitors. But it’s not only the buildings that are diverse—at least as diverse are the city’s residents. That is why Constanta is now also described as a multicultural city.

Sights in the city

Would you like to discover Constanta and follow in the footsteps of its ancient history? Then you should definitely visit the following sights in the city.

• History from antiquity to modern times: Museum of History and Archaeology
• Symbol of cultures & religions: Carol I Mosque
• Orthodox place of worship with tradition: Catedrala Sfinții Apostoli Petru și Pavel
• Sandy beach & seaside resort: The Black Sea beaches (city beach & Mamaia)
• Art Nouveau historic monument: Constanta Casino
• Family highlight: Insider tip: Aqua Magic

Museum of History and Archaeology

The history museum houses an incredible number of more than 430,000 exhibits and is therefore considered the second-largest museum of its kind (after the National Museum in Bucharest) in Romania. The exhibits date back to the Paleolithic period (Old Stone Age) and extend into modern times. However, the museum does not only deal with Romanian history—it also displays exhibits of Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and medieval origin. Also worth seeing is the museum’s large coin collection, where you can find silver, gold, and bronze coins.

Carol I Mosque

The impressive Carol I Mosque in Constanta is regarded as a sign of faith and was completed in 1912 on behalf of King Carol I. The mosque in Konya (Turkey) served as inspiration for its construction. In Romania, the Carol I Mosque is also known as the Marea Moschee din Constanța and is a symbol of the harmonious coexistence of different cultures and religions. Particularly striking are the main portal made of Dobrogea stone and the black marble door with bronze inlays that welcomes visitors.

Catedrala Sfinții Apostoli Petru și Pavel

This Orthodox place of worship has enriched the city since the late 19th century and has been a refuge for Orthodox believers since it was built. Particularly impressive are the magnificent chandeliers inside the cathedral, the icon of Mary, and the historical documents in Romanian.

The Black Sea beaches

You shouldn’t miss the beautiful beaches on the Black Sea. Very well known are the city beach in Constanta and the seaside resort of Mamaia. Mamaia in particular is very popular and is located seven kilometers from the city center. Interestingly, Mamaia is one of the oldest Romanian seaside resorts.

Constanta Casino

Would you like to explore the nightlife a bit? Then you should visit the Constanta Casino. This is not a classic casino, but a historic Art Nouveau gambling hall right in the port city. It is therefore also considered a historical monument.

Insider tip: Aqua Magic

Aqua Magic is probably the coolest and most adventure-filled place for families. Aqua Magic is also considered a small insider tip because it is the largest water park in Romania. Slide down the countless water slides with a big smile and swim your laps in the pools. And of course, one thing must not be missing: the classic swimming-pool fries, which you can enjoy here too.

Sights nearby

But Constanta is not the only place with plenty to offer—so does the surrounding area (near and far). If you want to visit the city, you should definitely include Romania’s nature in your plans. Particularly worth seeing are the Danube Delta and the Dobrogea Gorge, both of which feature unique landscapes. A visit to these two reserves is especially worthwhile for nature lovers.

• UNESCO natural paradise with rich biodiversity: Danube Delta (Delta Dunării)
• Limestone cliffs & fossils: Cheile Dobrogei Nature Reserve (Dobrogea Gorge)

Danube Delta (Delta Dunării)

The Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve is part of the UNESCO World Heritage and is home to more than 1,830 plant species, 2,440 insect species, 90 mollusk species, 11 reptile species, 10 amphibian species, 320 bird species, and around 50 mammal species. Observe the diversity of the Danube Delta and admire its unique nature, which is protected. And it’s not only on land that you’ll find inhabitants—around 130 different fish species live in the waters of the Danube Delta, which, among other things, are an important food source for birds.

The Danube is the second-longest river in Europe and rises in Germany. On its way to Romania, the Danube crosses many countries and flows into the Black Sea. The Danube Delta itself lies in the southeast of Romania and borders the Dobruja Plateau to the southwest, Ukraine to the north, and the Black Sea to the east.

Cheile Dobrogei Nature Reserve (Dobrogea Gorge)

The Dobrogea Gorge Nature Reserve (Cheile Dobrogei) is protected and covers an area of 285 hectares. The Dobrogea Gorge is known for its limestone cliffs and the unique fossil species discovered there. Nature enthusiasts in particular should visit this protected area and discover its diverse flora and fauna. In addition to the limestone cliffs and interesting wildlife, the reserve also has many green spaces that you can use for a short break, including a picnic.

Best time to travel

Every season has its charm, but depending on the activities you’re interested in, the spring and summer months are particularly suitable for a short discovery tour in the city and the surrounding area. You should take advantage of summer (June–September) if you would like a beach vacation in Constanta and you don’t mind the sometimes higher temperatures (up to 35°C) in Romania. If you prefer fewer crowds, you should avoid the peak season (July and August) and travel in June or September. If you don’t see the city as a beach destination but simply want to discover its history and culture, the spring months are great. However, you should avoid the winter months, as it can get very cold in Romania and you have the least daylight for sightseeing at that time of year.

The DMC team wishes you a pleasant trip!

We wish you a pleasant trip to Romania and are happy to help you with any further questions about Romania and the related toll regulations. Contact us via our email.