Hotels in Bistriţa

Filled with cobblestone streets and pastel-coloured cottages, Bistrita boasts centuries-old architecture and was featured in Bram Stoker’s “Dracula” novel. You can enjoy ponds and parks, art galleries, historic churches, espresso bars and cosy clubs.

Things to do in Bistriţa

The most recognisable landmark in Bistrita is the 76-metre-tall tower of the Evangelical Church, a Gothic masterpiece from the 1300s. You can visit the church to admire period furnishings, altars and stained-glass windows, then have afternoon tea in one of many colourful cafes lining small alleyways in the main square. The Orthodox Church is worth a visit to see Baroque, Cistercian and Gothic architecture.

Pop into the Silversmith’s House for fascinating exhibitions of local art and history. Rent a bike and cycle the trails around Parcul Municipal. Young travellers will enjoy treats from ice-cream vendors and watching oversized goldfish in the park’s lily pond.

Bistrita’s vampire mania is evident in the creepy decor and taxidermy creatures inside Hotel Castel Dracula. Non-guests can roam the grounds and have a traditional Romanian meal inside the on-site restaurant. Another option for hearty fare is meatballs, sausage and paprika chicken stews at Crama Veche.

Head over to AnyTime Club to hear live rock music and DJ sessions at nightly “shot parties”. Old House Pub is another lively gathering spot that hosts occasional medieval-themed parties and events in the outdoor beer garden.

Getting around Bistriţa

You can rent a car at Targu Mures Transilvania International Airport, about 100 kilometres away. The Old Town quarter is pedestrian-friendly, but you can also use minibuses and taxis to get around.