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While traveling in Romania you are bound to come across the beautiful Alba Iulia. Traveling to the city soon and can’t decide which Alba Iulia top attractions should you see first? Fear not, you are in luck.
And in this Alba Iulia blog I’ll share with you some of my top things to do in Alba Iulia.
In my opinion, 3 days in Alba Iulia is good time to see the best that city has to offer. But if you can add 2-3 days more you’d be able to experience rather than ‘see’ that an ordinary tourist does. Here are the best things to see in Alba Iulia along with a list of the most interesting things to do in Alba Iulia:
1. The Citadel Alba-Carolina
If you like to be active and explore things on your own, then make some time for The Citadel Alba-Carolina.
The castle’s position makes it a great choice as a defensive location. The Citadel Alba-Carolina makes for a great sunny day activity.
Quick Facts:
- The fort houses ornate churches, museums, bars and cafes.
- The fort was opened on 1715 Pending review.
Address: Calea Moților, Numărul 5A, Alba Iulia, Romania
2. Râpa Roșie
Râpa Roșie is a pristine area of natural beauty located in Alba Iulia region.
A whole world of discovery and adventure awaits you upon your visit to Râpa Roșie.
You’ll discover numerous rivers and lakes in the park accounting for a large of its area. The reserve is spread over a large tract of land, covering several hundred acres of forested area.
Quick Facts:
- Spread over an area of 24 ha, the nature reserve is located in the soutwestern corner of Secaşelor Plateau.
- It was in 2000 when it was established.
An incredible sight, Râpa Roșie scores high in the list of the best things to do in Alba Iulia.
Address: Sebeș, Romania
3. St. Michael’s Cathedral
St. Michael’s Cathedral is a beautiful Cathedral situated in Alba Iulia.
The façade of the cathedral is incredibly attractive with several high-arched stained-glass windows. Don’t forget to climb to the top of the dome for a bird’s-eye perspective over the square and the surrounding area.
Quick Facts:
- It is built in a mix of architectural styles namely Gothic architecture, Romanesque architecture.
- St. Michael’s Cathedral is also the final resting place of greats such as John Hunyadi, Gabriel Bethlen.
- The cathedral belongs to the Roman Catholic faith, but is visited by others too.
Address: Strada Mihai Viteazul 21, Alba Iulia 510010, Romania
4. Coronation Cathedral
Coronation Cathedral is a charming old Cathedral located in the city of Alba Iulia, Romania.
This is the very church where King Ferdinand & Queen Marie were coronated in the year 1922.
You may climb to the top of the church’s distinctive dome for an even better panoramic view of the city. With its vibrant colors and seemingly never-ending expanse of artwork, the spectacular interior is a visual feast.
Quick Facts:
- The gorgeous Byzantine architecture, Brâncovenesc style style that you see is credited to the architect Victor Ștefănescu.
- The cathedral belongs to the Orthodox faith, but is visited by others too.
With so much to offer, no wonder Coronation Cathedral is one of the top things to do in Alba Iulia.
Address: Strada Mihai Viteazu 16, Alba Iulia 510010, Romania
5. The National Museum of the Union
This museum showcases Romania’s culture and is a great place to learn about its history too.
From primitive tools and pottery to weaponry and coins, you’ll travel through the time to the twentieth century.. It has acquired an extensive selection of pieces since its inception.
Quick Facts:
- The National Museum of the Union is housed in a historic building from 1900s.
Address: Strada Mihai Viteazul 12-14, Alba Iulia, Romania
6. Scărișoara Cave
Scărișoara Cave is an age old stone cave with frozen walls.
The experience is quite like walking right into a freezer. Enjoy your time, but beware that ice is really slippery, watch your steps really carefully.
Quick Facts:
- The highlight of the place includes the underground glacier which is reached by a short access tunnel.
Add it to your Alba Iulia trip if you have time.
7. Horea, Closca and Crisan Obelisk
Horea, Closca and Crisan Obelisk is a heart-felt monument located in Alba Iulia.
Quick Facts:
- The monument is dedicated to the peasant’s uprising of 1789.
Address: Strada Mihai Viteazul, Alba Iulia, Romania
8. Calcarele din Ampoița
Calcarele din Ampoița is a nature reserve, and a protected area, with a lush green jungle scenery.
A whole world of discovery and adventure awaits you upon your visit to Calcarele din Ampoița.
Start with the visitor center to help yourself get oriented. You will find plenty of climbing and adventure opportunities in here.
If you have time, it makes for a nice addition to your Alba Iulia trip.
Address: DC68, Ampoița, Romania
9. Martinuzzi Castle
Martinuzzi Castle is a medieval fortified structure perched over a hilltop.
The Martinuzzi Castle has borne witness to some of the most important events of the city’s history. Look over the edges to the sprawling cityscape in front of you, certainly a view worthy of a click.
Quick Facts:
- Martinuzzi Castle is also known as Alvinc Castle.
Address: Calea Moților, Numărul 5A, Alba Iulia, Romania
But beyond the famous attractions in Alba Iulia, there is something that pulls you back again and again, perhaps it’s the city’s charm. All in all, whether you are a backpacker, a solo traveler, slow traveler, a female traveler or a couple there are plenty of interesting things to do in Alba Iulia for everyone.
And if you plan it well, these popular tourist attractions in Alba Iulia can be easily covered in a short itinerary. So what are Alba Iulia sights to see or you have already been here? Let me know in the comments along with your tips and experiences.