Timisoara, Romania is a city brimming with history and charm, nestled in the western part of the country near the borders of Serbia and Hungary. Renowned as “The City of Flowers” and the “Revolutionary City,” Timisoara’s strategic location and rich heritage make it a captivating destination. 

Timisoara’s historical center boasts a wealth of Baroque-style buildings, cobblestone streets, and lively public squares, each reflecting a unique period in the city’s past. Visitors can admire architectural marvels like the Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral and wander through picturesque squares adorned with vibrant blooms. 

Discover the allure of Timisoara as you explore its cultural landmarks, vibrant neighborhoods, and dynamic atmosphere. Whether you’re strolling through its historic streets or experiencing its lively events, Timisoara offers a memorable journey for all who visit. 

Event venue

How to get to Timisoara

  • You can reach Timisoara by Air, Rail or Road.
  • For travelers heading to the city center (Bastion) from the airport, board express bus number 4. If your destination is the main railway station (Gara de Nord), opt for express bus number 4B. These STPT buses operate hourly between the airport and the city.

How to get to the ICAM Institute (Timisoara)

On foot
  1. Enter the park where the “Statuia lui Constantin Brâncuşi” statue is located.
  2. Walk through the park towards the Theology Faculty (“Facultatea de Litere, Istorie și Teologie”).
  3. Pass the Theology Faculty, and you will see the ICAM building directly in front of you. 

Look out for the OLLD flags to guide you: 

  • Two flags will be placed at the entrance of the ICAM building. 
  • Two additional flags will be in front of the Theology Faculty, where lunch will be served. 
Bike & Car

Follow your GPR or google maps to Strada Oituz nr. 4, Timișoara, Romania. You will enter through “Intratea Doinei” street. 

Travel Documentation - Entry Requirements for Romania

  • All non-EU visitors: Required to possess a valid passport for admission into Romania. Your passport must remain valid for the entirety of your stay, ensuring it does not expire before your intended departure date. Prior to traveling to Europe, it's advisable to carefully verify the expiration date on your passport. Some airlines may refuse boarding if your passport does not have a minimum of three months' validity beyond your planned departure date. Additionally, failure to meet these requirements may result in denial of entry into the Schengen Area.
  • Citizens of EU countries can gain entry into Romania with a valid passport or National Identity Card.

Entry requirements and visa information are also available at www.mae.ro, www.E-Visa.MAE.ro.

Currency in Romania

The official currency of Romania is the Romanian leu (RON), with each leu divided into 100 bani. When exchanging currency for Romania, be mindful of the currency code RON. In Romania, prices are typically displayed using the symbol lei. 

Romanian banknotes are available in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 50, 100, 200, and 500 RON, although the higher denominations of 200 and 500 RON are infrequently used. Bani coins are available in values of 1, 5, 10, and 50. 

Exchange Rates:

  • 1 EUR = 4.97015 RON
  • 1 USD = 4.57801 RON
  • 1 GBP = 5.79748 RON
  • 1 CHF = 5.04876 RON
  • 1 RON = 0.03016 JPY
  • 1 CAD = 3.38912 RON

Electricity in Romania

In Romania, the standard voltage supply is 230V, and there are two common plug types: type C and type F. Type C plugs feature two round pins, while type F plugs have two round pins with two earth clips on the side. While you won’t require a voltage converter, you will need a travel adapter to ensure compatibility with Romanian power outlets. 

Shopping and Services

In major cities, department stores, including super and hypermarkets, remain open throughout the week, including weekends. Smaller shops typically operate on weekdays from 10 am to 8 pm, with closures on Sundays. Additionally, numerous shops cater to diverse schedules, with some open 24 hours for added convenience. 

Banks typically operate from 9 am to 3 pm or 4 pm. As for museums, they generally welcome visitors from 9 am to 5 pm, except on Mondays when closures are common. 

Suggested Hotels

4-Stars Hotels
3-Stars Hotels
2-Stars Hotels

We recommend participants to book their accommodation in the city centre. 

Main attractions of Timisoara

  • Roses Park (Parcul Rozelor): Known for its beautiful roses, this park by the river offers a picturesque setting for leisurely walks.
  • Botanical Park (Parcul Botanicul): Considered one of the most beautiful botanical parks, it features diverse flora and fauna, serene walking paths, and a charming lake.
  • Iulius Mall and Iulius Town: This vast shopping and entertainment complex includes gardens with a pond and several restaurants, providing a day of shopping and dining.
  • Village Museum of Banat: Located in Banat, accessible by taxi, this museum showcases quaint straw-roofed cottages, offering insight into traditional village life.
  • Timisoara Opera House: Visit this charming theater and enjoy performances amidst elegant surroundings.
  • Bega River Promenade: Take a leisurely walk along the picturesque Bega River, dotted with cafes, restaurants, and nightlife venues. You can also enjoy a ferry ride or rent pedal boats.
  • Victory Square: Home to landmarks like the Romanian Orthodox Cathedral and the Art Museum, Victory Square is another significant hub in Timisoara.
  • Liberty Square (Piata Libertatii) and Alba Iulia Street: Known for their decorative lighting and vibrant atmosphere, these areas offer a lively ambiance reminiscent of London's Carnaby Street.
  • Union Square (Piata Unirii): The main square of Timisoara, featuring numerous bars, restaurants, and churches, including the Art Museum with an entrance fee of approximately €1.
  • Waterfront (along the Bega River): Enjoy the charming ambiance along the Bega River, where you'll find numerous cafes, bars, and nightclubs. Take a ferry ride to cross the river or rent pedal boats for a fun outing on the water.
  • Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral: A majestic example of religious architecture, the Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral is an icon of Timisoara, with its golden domes dominating the city skyline.

Culture

Timisoara boasts a rich cultural heritage, influenced by its diverse history and vibrant community. The city is known for its lively arts scene, with theaters, galleries, and cultural events showcasing both traditional and contemporary works. Visitors can explore Timisoara’s cultural diversity through its architecture, museums, and festivals, which celebrate everything from music and dance to literature and film. 

Notable museums to explore

  • Banat Museum: Housed within the historic Timisoara Fortress, the Banat Museum offers insights into the history and cultural heritage of the Banat region. Visitors can explore exhibits showcasing archaeological finds, historical artifacts, and ethnographic collections.
  • Timisoara Art Museum: Located in a beautiful 18th-century baroque palace, the Timisoara Art Museum features a diverse collection of Romanian and European art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. The museum's exhibits offer a glimpse into the artistic heritage of the region.
  • Museum of the Revolution: Situated in the former Communist Party Headquarters, the Museum of the Revolution chronicles the events of the Romanian Revolution of 1989. Visitors can learn about the struggle for democracy and the fall of the Communist regime through multimedia displays, photographs, and artifacts.
  • Victor Babes Museum: Dedicated to the renowned Romanian scientist Victor Babes, this museum showcases exhibits related to microbiology, pathology, and medical history. Visitors can explore displays of laboratory equipment, medical specimens, and documents highlighting Babes' contributions to science.

Typical Dishes

  • Mici: Also known as "mititei," mici are small grilled sausages made from a mixture of ground meat (usually a combination of beef, pork, and lamb) seasoned with garlic, black pepper, and other spices. They are often served with mustard, bread, and a cold beer.
  • Sarmale: These are cabbage rolls stuffed with a mixture of minced meat (usually pork), rice, and spices, then simmered in a tomato-based sauce until tender. Sarmale are a traditional dish often enjoyed during holidays and special occasions.
  • Ciorba de Perisoare: A hearty soup made with a sour broth base, meatballs (perisoare), vegetables, and herbs. It's often served with a dollop of sour cream on top and enjoyed as a comforting meal, especially during colder months.
  • Papanasi: A popular dessert, papanasi are fried doughnuts made from a mixture of flour, eggs, and cheese, then topped with sour cream and jam. They're a deliciously indulgent treat that's sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.