Craiova is famous for its beautiful parks, which are not only oases of greenery, but also free attractions for the whole family. Topping the list is Nicolae Romanescu Park, a true gem of the city. Established in 1900, this sprawling park is one of the largest natural parks in Eastern Europe. Importantly, admission to the park is completely free, making it an ideal destination for frugal travelers. The park impresses with its picturesque alleys, romantic bridges and charming lake. Children are sure to love the playgrounds and mini zoo located within the park. Look out for the historic suspension bridge, which is one of the park's symbols and a popular photo spot.

Another place worth visiting is Parcul Tineretului, or Youth Park. This is a modern recreation site that offers many activities for the active. There are soccer fields, tennis courts and playgrounds for children. The park is an ideal place for a picnic or relaxing outdoors. On hot days, you can take advantage of the nearby aquapark (although here you have to reckon with additional costs).

Comparing the two parks, Nicolae Romanescu Park is definitely larger and more historic, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5 in visitor reviews. It offers more opportunities for walking and exploring interesting corners. Parcul Tineretului, on the other hand, with a rating of 4.4, is more geared toward active recreation and sports. Both parks are well maintained and provide plenty of shade on hot days.

Zoo Park Craiova, located within the Nicolae Romanescu Park, is another attraction worth visiting. Most importantly for frugal travelers - admission is free! This is a rarity for zoos. Although the zoo is not the largest, you can see many interesting animal species, including lions, tigers and bears. This is a great educational place for children, where they can learn about different animal species without straining the family budget.

All of these places are easily accessible and well connected to the city center. It's worth planning a day trip, combining a visit to the parks with a picnic and a visit to the zoo. This is an ideal option for families with children, couples looking for romantic spots, as well as individuals who want to relax in nature. Remember that these green spaces are not only tourist attractions, but also places where you can feel the real rhythm of life of Craiova's residents.

Craiova is not only beautiful parks, but also a city rich in culture and history that you can discover without spending a fortune. One of the highlights of the city's cultural map is the 'Craiova' Art Museum. Housed in a beautiful palace, the museum is a true feast for art lovers. With a rating of 4.7 out of 5, it is highly regarded by visitors. The price of admission is about 6 euros (as of 2024), making it accessible even to thrifty tourists. Note the impressive collection of Romanian art, including works by well-known artists such as Brâncusi, Grigorescu and Aman.

Important note for visitors: the museum only accepts cash payments, so it's a good idea to prepare the appropriate amount before your visit. Unfortunately, audio guides are not available, but the architecture of the palace alone is already worth seeing. A visit to the museum is not only a lesson in art history, but also an opportunity to admire the beautiful palace interiors.

Another place worth visiting is the Oltenia Museum of History and Archaeology. This is a fascinating place for history lovers, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5. The museum is housed in a small building, but offers a wealth of exhibits to learn about the history of the Oltenia region. The entrance fee is about 10 lei (as of 2024), making it one of the cheapest attractions in the city.

It's worth noting the interesting installations and displays that showcase different historical eras. Although most of the descriptions are in Romanian, just looking at the exhibits is rewarding. For those interested in numismatics, the museum offers the opportunity to purchase a commemorative coin for an additional 10 lei.

Comparing the two museums, the 'Craiova' Art Museum offers more impressive architecture and an art collection, while the Oltenia Museum of History and Archaeology focuses on local history and archaeological finds. Both sites are highly rated by visitors and offer a deeper understanding of the region's culture and history.

For those looking for a more contemporary experience, consider a visit to Mercur Mall, where Diverta Bookstore is located. This place is ideal for book lovers, offering a wide selection of literature in both Romanian and English. Interestingly, the bookstore organizes a 'blind date with a good book' campaign, where you can buy a book wrapped so that you can't see the cover - an interesting option for those looking for literary surprises.

When visiting these cultural hotspots of Craiova, it is advisable to plan your route to combine a visit to the museums with relaxation in the nearby parks. This combination will allow you to fully experience the charms of the city, combining education with leisure, and all within a limited budget. Keep in mind that many of these places offer discounts for students and seniors, so it's always worth asking about such opportunities at the checkout.

Visiting Craiova doesn't have to strain your wallet if you follow a few practical tips. First and foremost, you should focus on free attractions such as parks and walks around the city. Nicolae Romanescu Park and Parcul Tineretului are not only beautiful places to relax, but also excellent starting points for exploring the city.

If you plan to visit museums, it's worth checking to see if they offer days with free admission or discounts for certain groups (e.g., students, seniors). The 'Craiova' Museum of Art and the Oltenia Museum of History and Archaeology are places worth visiting, even if you have to pay for a ticket - the prices are relatively low compared to the value of the exhibits.

Public transportation in Craiova is relatively cheap and efficient. It's worth considering buying a day or multi-day ticket if you plan to visit extensively. Keep in mind, however, that many attractions are located in the city center and can be reached on foot, which will further save you money.

As for food, look for local bars and restaurants off the main tourist routes. They often offer tasty meals at affordable prices. Don't forget to try traditional Romanian dishes such as sarmale or mici - they are not only delicious, but often not too expensive either.

For those looking for souvenirs or wanting to do some shopping, Oltenia Sucpi is worth a visit. It's a shopping center that offers a wide selection of products at competitive prices. You'll find local wares as well as more versatile items. Keep in mind, however, that quality can vary, so it's a good idea to check products carefully before buying.

If you need sporting goods or are planning an active vacation, stores such as Decathlon and Intersport offer good value for money. Decathlon, with a rating of 4.5, is especially recommended by hikers because of its affordable prices and wide assortment.

For bicycle enthusiasts, consider renting a unicycle at BBY Motors - CTM Bike Romania. Although the store has mixed reviews (rating of 4.2), it can be a good option for those who want to explore the city on two wheels.

Remember that many attractions in Craiova, such as parks and the zoo, are free. By taking advantage of them, you can have a fantastic time in the city without spending a lot of money. When planning your tour itinerary, it's a good idea to combine paid attractions (like museums) with free ones (like parks) to balance your expenses.

Finally, don't forget about local cultural events and festivals that are often held in the city. Many of them are free and provide an excellent opportunity to learn about local culture and people.

Traveling around Craiova on a budget is not only possible, but can also be extremely rewarding. The city offers many attractions available for free or for a small fee, allowing you to enjoy its charms without straining your wallet. Remember, the best experiences are often priceless, and Craiova has much to offer for open-minded and curious travelers.