The city of Constanta founded by Greek colonists in the 6th century BC. Tomis was conquered by the Romans in 71 BC and renamed Constantiana by Roman Emperor Constantine the Great in honor of his half-sister. As time passed this place has seen many historical changes, and diverse groups of people have lived here. Most people going to the seaside pass by Constanta, as it is the largest city with iconic views and plenty of things to enjoy.
What are some of the things that bring Constanta to number 9 on our magical Dracula List?
Swimming, Beaches and Sun
Constanta and its vicinity is the place where the sun shines and the sea does whatever seas do. You can swim, get a tan and hear the gentle sounds of the waves anytime you visit. Constanta has a couple beaches so technically speaking you can take the train and go immediately to the beach. One dissadvantage is that the Black Sea is quite dark and it doesn’t heat up a lot.
1st of May is traditionally the period when people get a day off and students go to the seaside to open up their taste buds for a beautiful summer.
Beach suggestions: Plaja Modern, Plaja DaMar , Plaja 3 Papuci
Walk on the waterfront to the Casino
One of the most iconic buildings in Romania, one of the most photographed places and a true architectural gem. The Cosntanta Casino reflects the suffering of the Romanian people, as it was used for very brief periods of time for it’s grandeur, but there have always been issues to impede its use, most of the issues being financial.
Partying
Some of the most high end places in Romania are located here, they usually open up during the summer. I asked a friend for recommendations, and he said to go with the flow during the summer because there are plenty of choices.
On off season, he recommends: Fratelli for the fancy , iq pub for more chill fun.
Sunrises
A good way to start the day is with a sunrise, sunsets fall behind the city so you only get the colors, but at sunrise you experience the full spectrum of colours!
View from the Mosque
The tower of the mosque definitely grants a really cool view and a reminder of the multi-ethnic character of this part of the country.
History and museums
Overall, the museums are not catered to be very interactive so not a lot of explanations but if you love art there is a surprisingly good art museum, a decent art museum and a ancient history museum that requires some care and attention.
A seasonal city
Constanta would get more thumbs up if it wasn’t so seasonal, it feel like it loses a lot of it’s magic during the off-season. If you would like to get some peace and quiet you can definitely find some affordable out of season options to go there and write a book, just know that there is a high chance some restaurants will be closed.
The amazing food scene
Just know there are plenty of tourist traps.
Bacaro – Central area good food and a view.
Crazy – Central and good food.
Popina – If you love fish dishes this is the place to go.
Pescaria lui Matei – Excelent, authentic food with locally caught fish, must go even though it’s out of town.
Fast food hit: Nikos (greek food), Pizza cu Pui si bacon (go for the famous chicken and bacon sandwhiches), Izmir Doner (authentic Turkish doner).
Wine areas
Dobrogea is an amazing historical region for wine and contributes to the wide range of wines that you can find in Romania. Most notable brands: Murfatlar, Cotnari, Histria and quite a few other ones.
Easy access to the resorts in the area
Mamaia – Expensive and more party focused
Vama Veche – Alternative music scene
Costinesti – Comercial music
Eforie – Mud baths and relaxation
For football supporters, you can even go for a football game
The team is doing very well, at the moment of writing the article, it is in 2nd place in the national league.
Tickets: Link
For amazing accommodation in Constanta:
Resources used: https://www.turistulliber.ro/blog/vacanta/plaje-constanta-unde-merita-sa-mergi-vara-aceasta/
Photo by Rx’ Diaconu on Unsplash
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