Treasures from times long past are ready to welcome you into the colourful city of Timisoara.

Discover Local in Timișoara

Make your way into the heart of the city and you’ll find the picturesque Piața Victoriei, aka Victory Square. Its wide paths lead you through a mixture of elegant buildings, restaurants and shops. If you’re history-minded, we suggest a guided tour of the square and a visit to the Memorial Museum. After all, the square’s name is an ode to the fact that this was where citizens came together to begin the 1989 revolution against communism. For those looking for a more laid-back experience, wander the square, making sure to visit the intricate Orthodox Cathedral. Follow the crowds and do some shopping before you pull up a chair at one of the many cafes lining the square. Enjoy the beauty of the sunset on the square’s gorgeous flowers and see the city come to life as the sun goes down.

Feel the heart of Timișoara in Piața Victoriei

In a city brimming with beautiful houses of worship, the Catedrala Ortodoxă (Orthodox Cathedral) stands out as one of the most impressive. While its construction in the early 20th century places it as one of the newer cathedrals on the list, its construction arose out of the union of Romania and Banat, where Timișoara was located. You will be impressed by its beautifully coloured towers and height as soon as you view the building. Whilst the outside is impressive, the inside is truly captivating as the tall dome is fortified by golden chains and buckles, giving you a dizzying sense of opulence and reverence. Rest and reflect in the tranquillity of the church’s interior, then emerge into the lush park surrounding the cathedral for some of the city’s best people watching.

Look to the heavens at the Catedrala Ortodoxă

One of the many impressive buildings we recommend in town is the 18th-century Baroque Palace. What makes this a must-visit, however, is that the building is home to the Muzeul de Arta (Art Museum). The museum hosts eight collections, each very specific and illuminating. The curation of the museum emphasises local and regional art, so it’s truly an experience that you can’t recreate anywhere else. (The contemporary art collection is almost entirely comprised of works from and about the city!) Our favourite collection highlights decorative arts, a nice area of art that you’ll be glad to dive into. With over 1,500 pieces in the collection, you’ll see masterpieces of local tradition, including pottery, glassware, watches, and textiles. It’s a distinctive lens through which you can view the city and the region, all while focusing on exceptional beauty.

Find joy in decorative arts at Muzeul de Arta

We promise, you’ll be forgiven if you want to just stand and stare at Castelul Huniade, aka Huniade Castle, for a little while. This magnificent castle was built in the early 14th century and is Timișoara’s oldest building. It served as a home to the kings in the region for centuries and has seen its share of attacks and damage – but it’s still standing! Explore the outside of the building to appreciate its Romantic and Neo-Gothic architecture. But don’t leave without heading inside to the Museum of Banat. Walk through the exhibits where you can learn more about the castle itself and the important role it has played in the history of the area. As you’re leaving, make sure you look for the two lamps on the front of the building. They’re a reminder that Timișoara was actually Europe’s first city to install electric lighting. How bright!

Visit the kings of old at Castelul Huniade

Over time, Timișoara has earned several nicknames, including “Little Vienna” and “City of Flowers”. We have to say, those names are certainly earned. Started as a fortified city, Timișoara has a compact, easily walkable Old Town. It’s the perfect place to spend a sunny afternoon, taking in the city’s most lush greenery. The city is known for an abundance of beautiful public parks, immerse yourself in them as you journey through Old Town will immerse you in those. Make sure you have your camera ready because you will come across the perfect spot for a photo every few minutes! Walk along the shore of the Bega River and just listen to the water pass you by. As you make your way from Old Town to explore the rest of the city, take note of the buildings as you pass. Many are being restored to their former glory, in respect of the tenacity and pride of this historic city.

Explore the city’s Old Town on foot

One of the best ways to experience Timișoara’s architecture is to explore its Piata Unirii (Union Square). This incredible public space is the city’s oldest square, and, according to many, its most beautiful. It’s deeply rooted in the city’s history as most of the buildings lining the square are national historic monuments. While the architectural importance of the square can’t be overstated, it’s also just a phenomenal destination for relaxing and soaking in the view. We think the perfect way to take it in is to stroll around the buildings and cathedrals. Ask questions, and learn a bit. Once you’ve enjoyed the architecture, find a table at one of the square’s many cafes and restaurants. You can sip your drink and watch life go by in the square. If you’re lucky, you might be able to catch one of the outdoor concerts that happen in warmer months.

Timisoara, Romania