How to spend a weekend in Bacau
Looking for a weekend break that packs history, art and the great outdoors?
Why not try Bacău? The Romanian city may not be on the typical tourist trail like Bucharest, yet it’s a people-friendly paradise that'll charm every traveller!
Bacău comes from the Dacian word Bakó, meaning “hill” or “place on the hilltop”. Expect highs of 28 degrees in the summertime, and a cool yet balmy 16 degrees in the autumn. But if you’re heading to Bacau in the winter, don’t forget your woolly hats, as average temperatures can drop to as low as 2 degrees.
Best of all, it’s a 3 hour and 10 minute flight from London Luton Airport to Bacau. Maximise a long weekend by travelling across Eastern Europe, or use Bacău as the base to explore western Romania. You’re near Iasi and Suceava, plus it’s a quick hop over the Moldovan border to Chisinau.
Here’s our recommended to-do list for a trip to Bacău.
Visit the Biserica Precista
Built in the late 15th century, the Biserica Precista church was consecrated for Stephen the Great, the then Prince of Moldavia. As you enter the church via the monumental gate, see the Slavonic stone tablet that says “With the will of the Father and with the help of the Son and with the accomplishment of the Holy Spirit”.
Declared a historical monument in 1907, architects continue to restore the Biserica Precista church to its original state. It’s painted in a “fresco” technique, a mural painting style often used at the time. The church houses a “Mother of God” summer altar and the construction of the "Nastrea Maiicii Domnului" settlement including a chapel and a library.
See the Princely Court and George Bacovia Memorial House
If you’re after more Romanian history, the Princely Court is for you. Discover lots of ruins and trawl through the 15th-century finds for how the rulers sat over Moldavia. Fast forward to the early 20th century and be enlightened by Romanian poet George Bacovia at a memorial house. See his personal belongings and heirlooms and find out how his poetry went on to inspire contemporary artists across Romania and Europe.
Go stargazing at Observatorul Astronomic Victor Anestin
Built to honour 20th-century amateur astronomer Victor Anestin, see what’s in the stars in Bacău. Stretched over six rooms, discover basic astronautics before reaching the planetarium auditorium. It’s the largest astronomy exhibit in Romania, with regular scientific meetings and breakthroughs taking place across the planets. Anestin liked to write about imaginary worlds, and this observatory will allow you to dream up what lies beyond planet Earth.
Wander around Mircea Cancicov
Take in the fresh air as you walk around Bacau’s largest city parks. Established in 1938 at the request of Bacau locals, it’s a testament to 20th-century Romanian history. Its name has changed frequently over the years, but it’s now after liberal Mircea Cancicov, who contributed to the modern developments of the city. Count all the statues in the park, including poet Mihai Eminescu, writer Ion Creangă, and statesman Mihail Kogălniceanu.
Head to Insula de Agrement
An island in the middle of a Romanian city? It could only happen in Bacău. Nestled in the middle of a lake formed by the Bistriţa River, spot swans, ducks and local birds as they glide along the water. Want to spend more time by the water? The Lacul de Mesteceni (Birch Tree Lake) is a popular destination for fishing, boating and relaxing.
Go back in time at Castel Ghica
Drive an hour outside of Bacău to the small town of Dofteana. There, you can visit Castel Ghica, a 19th-century romantic castle. And you’re sure to fall in love with the lush green fields and stately buildings. It’s still used today — the Ghika family still use the castle as a summer residence.