Cluj Napoca | Romania

Cluj-Napoca, the unofficial capital of Transylvania, is a city where Gothic history meets a booming tech scene and a youthful, "student-city" energy. As of 2026, it remains Romania’s second-largest city and one of the fastest-growing economic hubs in Central and Eastern Europe.

1. The Vibe and Demographics

Cluj is defined by its multiculturalism and youth. With a population of roughly 320,000 (reaching nearly 500,000 in the metropolitan area), it is home to over 100,000 students across 11 universities. This creates a "city within a city" dynamic, especially in the student districts like Hașdeu, where the cafes and bars are perpetually buzzing.

2. Modern Landmarks & Geography

The city is nestled in the Someșul Mic River valley, surrounded by the Feleac and Cluj hills.

Piața Unirii (Union Square): The heart of the city, dominated by St. Michael’s Church, one of Romania’s most impressive Gothic structures, and the monumental Matia Corvinus statue.

Cetățuia Park: A former Habsburg fortification on a hill overlooking the city. It is the go-to spot for sunsets and panoramic views of the red-roofed Old Town.

Alexandru Borza Botanical Garden: One of the largest in Southeast Europe, featuring a Japanese garden and massive Amazonian water lilies.

The Tech Hub: Often called the "Silicon Valley of Europe," Cluj is home to hundreds of IT companies, making it a major driver for Romania's economy.

3. Culture and Major Events

Cluj is a UNESCO City of Film and hosts some of Europe’s most famous festivals:

UNTOLD Festival: One of the world's top electronic music festivals, turning the central park and Cluj Arena into a massive fairytale-themed party every August.

TIFF (Transilvania International Film Festival): Romania’s most prestigious film event, held in late May/early June, with open-air screenings in the main square.

Electric Castle: Located 30 minutes away at the Bánffy Castle in Bonțida, this festival mixes music, technology, and heritage in a way that’s unique to the region.

4. 2026 Updates & Transportation

Cluj is currently undergoing significant infrastructure modernization:

The Metro Project: Work on Romania's second metro system (after Bucharest) is a major talking point, aimed at easing the city’s notoriously heavy traffic.

Airport Expansion: Avram Iancu International Airport (CLJ) is a primary gateway, with several new routes launched in 2025–2026 to hubs like Berlin, Abu Dhabi, and Oslo.

Public Transit: As of August 2025, public transport fares were adjusted (a single journey is now 3.50 lei), and the city continues to expand its fleet of electric buses and trams.

5. Day Trip Essentials

If you are using Cluj as a base, two spots are mandatory:

Turda Salt Mine (Salina Turda): A surreal underground theme park located inside an ancient salt mine. It looks like something out of a sci-fi movie.

Hoia-Baciu Forest: Known as the "Bermuda Triangle of Transylvania," it is famous for its paranormal legends and strangely bent trees.