7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Constanta

Digital nomads living in Constanta, have the unique opportunity to blend work and travel, experiencing the rich culture, history, and natural beauty of the region. While the city itself offers plenty to explore, the weekends are a perfect time to venture out and discover new destinations. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, there's something for every type of traveler. Here are seven fun weekend getaways that are just a short trip from Constanta.

Bucharest

As the capital city of Romania, Bucharest is a bustling metropolis that offers a stark contrast to the coastal vibes of Constanta. Known for its vibrant culture, historic landmarks, and lively nightlife, Bucharest is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience urban Romanian life. Explore the grandeur of the Palace of Parliament, stroll through the charming Old Town, and enjoy the city's many parks and gardens. The National Museum of Art and the Romanian Athenaeum are also highlights for culture enthusiasts.

How to Get There: The easiest way to reach Bucharest from Constanta is by train, with frequent services running daily and the journey taking approximately 2 to 2.5 hours.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to visit Carturesti Carusel, a stunning bookstore in the heart of the Old Town that's as much a work of art as it is a place to pick up a new read.

Where to Stay: For a luxurious stay, consider the Athenee Palace Hilton Bucharest, which boasts a central location and historic charm. If you're looking for something more modern, the Radisson Blu Hotel Bucharest offers contemporary comforts and a stunning outdoor pool.

Where to Eat: Caru' cu Bere is a historic restaurant in Bucharest known for its traditional Romanian cuisine and lively atmosphere. The building itself is an architectural gem, and the beer is brewed on-site.

Brasov

Brasov is a charming medieval town nestled in the heart of Transylvania, surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains. Its cobbled streets, colorful buildings, and the iconic Black Church make it a picturesque escape from the coast. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy hiking Mount Tampa or exploring the nearby Seven Ladders Canyon. In winter, the town becomes a gateway to some of Romania's best skiing at Poiana Brasov.

How to Get There: The journey to Brasov from Constanta typically takes around 5 hours by train, with multiple departures available throughout the day.

Travel Tip: Make sure to take the cable car up Mount Tampa for breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding mountains.

Where to Stay: The Drachenhaus Urban Village is a cozy option with a blend of rustic charm and modern amenities, while the Aro Palace offers a more upscale experience with stunning views of the city.

Where to Eat: La Ceaun is a popular spot for enjoying hearty Romanian dishes, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and traditional cooking methods.

Vama Veche

Vama Veche is a bohemian seaside village known for its laid-back atmosphere and vibrant nightlife. It's a haven for artists, musicians, and free spirits, with a stretch of beach that's less commercialized than other parts of the Black Sea coast. During the day, relax on the beach or visit the nearby 2 Mai village for a quieter vibe. At night, the beach bars come alive with live music and bonfires.

How to Get There: Vama Veche is just an hour's drive from Constanta, making it an easy destination for a quick weekend getaway. Public buses also run regularly between the two locations.

Travel Tip: If you're visiting in the summer, be sure to check out the annual Stufstock music festival, which celebrates the village's hippie culture.

Where to Stay: For a unique experience, stay at the boutique Vama Veche Hostel, which offers a friendly and social atmosphere. Alternatively, the Marina Park offers comfortable accommodations right by the beach.

Where to Eat: Cherhana Vama Veche is a local favorite for fresh seafood, with a casual setting right on the sand.

The Danube Delta

The Danube Delta is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a paradise for nature lovers and bird watchers. As the second-largest river delta in Europe, it boasts a rich biodiversity and serene landscapes. Explore the numerous lakes and channels by boat, spot over 300 species of birds, and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of this unique ecosystem. Fishing and photography are also popular activities in the delta.

How to Get There: The best way to reach the Danube Delta from Constanta is by car or bus, with the journey taking around 3 hours to Tulcea, the gateway to the delta.

Travel Tip: Visit during spring or early summer for the best birdwatching opportunities, as many species are nesting or passing through during migration.

Where to Stay: The Delta Nature Resort offers luxurious accommodations with stunning views of the delta, while the Green Village Resort provides a more eco-friendly option with traditional thatched cottages.

Where to Eat: In Tulcea, try the Ivan Pescar & Scrumbia Bar for a taste of the local fish dishes, especially the smoked Danube herring.

Balchik, Bulgaria

Just across the border from Romania, the Bulgarian town of Balchik offers a delightful change of scenery with its beautiful botanical gardens and the quiet charm of its seaside promenade. The Balchik Palace and its gardens are the town's crown jewels, once a summer residence for Romanian royalty. The town also has a rich history, with influences from the Thracians, Greeks, Romans, and Ottomans.

How to Get There: Balchik is about a 2-hour drive from Constanta, making it an accessible international getaway for the weekend. There are also bus services that connect the two cities.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Balchik Botanical Gardens, which are home to over 2000 plant species, including a collection of cacti that is one of the largest in Europe.

Where to Stay: The Lighthouse Golf & Spa Resort offers luxurious accommodations with golfing facilities and stunning sea views. For a more intimate setting, consider the boutique hotel Elit Balchik.

Where to Eat: The White Rock Castle restaurant provides a scenic dining experience with a terrace overlooking the sea, serving a mix of Bulgarian and international cuisine.

Enisala Fortress

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, the Enisala Fortress is a hidden gem. Perched on a hill overlooking Lake Razim, the fortress offers panoramic views and a glimpse into the region's medieval past. The ruins are a testament to the strategic importance of this area, with influences from the Genoese, Byzantines, and Ottomans. It's a perfect spot for history buffs and photographers alike.

How to Get There: Enisala Fortress is about a 2-hour drive from Constanta. There is no direct public transportation, so renting a car or taking a taxi is the best option.

Travel Tip: Visit during the late afternoon for a spectacular sunset that bathes the fortress and the surrounding landscape in golden light.

Where to Stay: The nearby town of Sarichioi offers several guesthouses and B&Bs, such as Casa Teo, which provides comfortable lodging and local hospitality.

Where to Eat: While dining options are limited near the fortress, the restaurant at Casa Teo serves delicious traditional Romanian dishes with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.

Macin Mountains National Park

The Macin Mountains National Park is one of Romania's oldest mountain ranges and a place of unspoiled natural beauty. Ideal for hikers and nature enthusiasts, the park features a diverse range of flora and fauna, as well as intriguing rock formations. The trails offer varying levels of difficulty, ensuring that both novice and experienced hikers can find a suitable path. The park is also a site of historical significance, with ancient Dacian fortresses scattered throughout the area.

How to Get There: The Macin Mountains are approximately a 2-hour drive from Constanta. Public transportation options are limited, so driving is the most convenient way to visit the park.

Travel Tip: Be sure to visit the Greci Village Museum within the park to learn more about the local culture and history of the area.

Where to Stay: The small town of Macin offers a few guesthouses, such as Pensiunea Casa Cu Lei, which provides a cozy atmosphere and easy access to the park.

Where to Eat: For a taste of local cuisine, the restaurant at Pensiunea Casa Cu Lei offers homemade meals prepared with ingredients from their own garden.