Experience in Timisoara, Romania by Florin

What is it like to live in Timisoara? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

The city is having a typical Romanian Transilvanian look, communist architecture with grey blocks combined with the old quarters built in Renaissance or Habsburg style, Timişoara being called "Little Wien". The city is the most western city of Romania, and some call it the most western in mentality as well. Peaceful and nice place, cheap and important economic centre as well as a student's city.

What is the student lifestyle like in Timisoara?

There are many students from all over the country as well as foreigners studying in Timişoara. There is a large neighbourhood only for students dormitories and most of the students live there, it is called "Complexul Studenţesc". There are many cheap pubs and nightclubs around the area.

How much does it cost to live in Timisoara?

Dormitories are really cheap, less than €50/month, but rented flats cost about €200/month or more, unless you share a flat which would be cheaper depending how many people share it. Pubs and clubs are usually cheap, beer prices being around €1, except some fancy places. Restaurants are also cheap, and usually there are very large portions. E. g. You can have lunch for less than €5. It all depends on how much you want to spend, but €100/month should be enough for food.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Timisoara? Is there any advice you can give?

Accommodation might be a problem to find since there is an overpopulation, so most available flats are more expensive than it used to be few years ago. There are many agencies for renting flats, but i suggest to first see the flat in person and then rent it if you like it. I recommend the dormitories which are really cheap and more entertaining.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Romanian food has many "traditional" dishes, you should try all of them, but most of them are found in other cultures as well. Also international cuisine provides tasty dishes, but usually matters the place where you eat. Try when in Romania: mici, mămăligă cu brânză, bulz, sarmale, cozonac (sweet), ţuică (strong drink).

What places would you recommend visiting in Timisoara?

Must see the Cathedral, from inside, has an art exhibition in the basement, the Opera, the Bega riverside, old neighbourhoods:Piaţa Traian, Iosefin, Piaţa Unirii, Piaţa Libertăţii; check out the art museum, and the village museum.

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Is it good to eat out in Timisoara? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Restaurant Timişoreana is a very good place to eat lunch or dinner and try local beer, in the centre.

Restaurant Daf Junior Giroc is located in the outskirts of the city but has very good food.

Is the nightlife good in Timisoara? Where is good to go?

Nightlife is good for a city like Timişoara, check out Bunker, Molly Malone, Scottish Pub, Atu Pub, Porky's, Epic, Heaven, No Name.

What advice would you give future students heading to Timisoara?

Have fun, travel within Transilvania (you have many things to see here), check out the city, drink Romanian beverages and try local food. Timişoara is safe but be careful if in the suburbs, and always watch your pockets.