Things to Do in Gherla, România

Gherla is a historic town in Cluj County, Romania, situated in the heart of Transylvania about 40 kilometers northeast of Cluj-Napoca. Known locally as 'Szamosújvár' in Hungarian and 'Armenierstadt' (Armenian City) in German, this charming settlement has a rich multicultural heritage dating back to the 18th century when it was established as an Armenian trading center. The town's baroque architecture and well-preserved historical center reflect its prosperous past as an important commercial hub along ancient trade routes. Today, Gherla offers visitors an authentic Romanian small-town experience with its peaceful atmosphere, traditional architecture, and welcoming locals. The town serves as an excellent base for exploring the surrounding Transylvanian countryside while providing insight into Romania's diverse cultural tapestry. Its compact size makes it perfect for leisurely walks, and its proximity to Cluj-Napoca allows for easy day trips to larger attractions while enjoying the tranquility of a smaller community.

Top Things to Do in Gherla

Explore the Historic Town Center

Wander through Gherla's well-preserved baroque town center, admiring the 18th-century architecture that reflects its Armenian merchant heritage. The main square features beautiful period buildings, traditional houses, and the town's characteristic layout that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.

Booking Tip: This is a self-guided activity that's completely free. Best visited during morning hours (9-11 AM) when the light is perfect for photography and local shops are opening. Spring through early fall offers the most pleasant walking conditions.

Visit Local Churches and Religious Sites

Discover Gherla's religious diversity by visiting its historic churches, including the Armenian Catholic Church and Orthodox churches that showcase the town's multicultural past. These sacred spaces feature unique architectural elements and religious art that tell the story of different communities that have called Gherla home.

Booking Tip: Churches are typically free to visit but may have limited opening hours. Contact local tourist information or ask at your accommodation for current visiting schedules. Small donations (5-10 RON) are appreciated for maintenance.

Someș River Activities

Enjoy peaceful moments along the Someș River that flows near Gherla, offering opportunities for riverside walks, fishing, or simply relaxing by the water. The riverbanks provide scenic spots for picnics and nature observation, with beautiful views of the surrounding Transylvanian landscape.

Booking Tip: River access is free, but if interested in fishing, you'll need a permit (around 20-50 RON per day) available at local sporting goods stores. Best visited during late spring through early autumn when weather is most favorable.

Traditional Market Experience

Experience authentic Romanian rural life at Gherla's local market, where farmers and artisans sell fresh produce, homemade goods, and traditional crafts. This is an excellent opportunity to interact with locals, sample regional specialties, and purchase unique souvenirs while supporting the local economy.

Booking Tip: Markets typically operate on specific days (usually 2-3 times per week). Ask locals or your accommodation for market days and hours. Bring cash (RON) and don't be afraid to try local foods - prices are very reasonable (10-30 RON for most items).

Countryside Exploration and Rural Tourism

Use Gherla as a base to explore the beautiful Transylvanian countryside, visiting nearby villages, traditional farms, and scenic landscapes. The surrounding area offers hiking opportunities, visits to local families, and chances to experience authentic rural Romanian life away from tourist crowds.

Booking Tip: Consider hiring a local guide (100-200 RON per day) or renting a car for maximum flexibility. Many rural tourism experiences can be arranged through local guesthouses. Best from May to October when roads are most accessible and weather is pleasant.

Getting There

Gherla is most easily reached by car or bus from Cluj-Napoca, located about 40 kilometers to the southwest. Regular bus services connect the two cities with a journey time of approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour, costing around 15-25 RON. If flying into Romania, Cluj-Napoca International Airport is the nearest major airport, about 50 kilometers away. From Bucharest, you can take a train to Cluj-Napoca and then continue by bus to Gherla, or drive directly via the A3 highway, which takes about 5-6 hours. Car rental is recommended for maximum flexibility in exploring the surrounding Transylvanian region.

Getting Around

Gherla is a small town that can easily be explored on foot, with most attractions within walking distance of the center. The compact historic core makes walking the most practical and enjoyable way to see the sights. For longer distances or trips to surrounding areas, local taxis are available at reasonable rates (starting from 5-10 RON for short trips within town). Bicycles can sometimes be rented from local guesthouses or hotels, offering a pleasant way to explore the countryside. Public transportation within the town is limited, but the small size makes this unnecessary for most visitors.

Where to Stay

Historic Town Center

Near Main Square

Riverside Area

Residential Neighborhoods

Countryside Guesthouses

Farm Stays

Food & Dining

Gherla's dining scene reflects authentic Romanian cuisine with a focus on traditional Transylvanian dishes and local specialties. Small family-run restaurants and taverns serve hearty meals featuring local ingredients, including traditional soups, grilled meats, and seasonal vegetables. Don't miss trying regional specialties like ciorbă de burtă (tripe soup), mici (grilled meat rolls), and local dairy products. Many restaurants are family-operated establishments where you can experience genuine Romanian hospitality. Prices are very reasonable compared to larger cities, with full meals typically costing 25-50 RON. Some guesthouses also offer home-cooked meals, providing an intimate dining experience with local families.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Gherla is from late spring through early autumn (May to September) when weather is most pleasant for walking and outdoor activities. Summer months (June-August) offer the warmest weather and longest days, perfect for countryside exploration, though this is also the busiest period. Spring (April-May) and early autumn (September-October) provide mild temperatures, beautiful scenery, and fewer crowds, making these ideal for a more peaceful visit. Winter can be quite cold with potential snow, but offers a different charm with cozy indoor experiences and traditional winter festivities, though some rural activities may be limited.

Insider Tips

Learn a few basic Romanian phrases - locals greatly appreciate the effort and it enhances your experience in this smaller town where English may be limited

Bring cash (Romanian Lei) as many local establishments, especially smaller restaurants and markets, may not accept credit cards

Ask your accommodation about local festivals or events during your visit - Gherla often hosts traditional celebrations that provide authentic cultural experiences not found in guidebooks

Things to Do in Gherla