An industrial and university city, Arad sits on the Mures River and hosts 19th-century architecture, including neoclassical and secession-style homes. Museums, cultural performances, art and an ancient fortress showcase a rich history.
Things to do in Arad
Discover the regional history with a stroll through Qalet Arad, an ancient fortress built by the Portuguese in the 1400s. Original architectural features have been painstakingly restored and the views of the bay at sunset are spectacular. Stick around for lively conversation and music at the adjacent park.
At the Archaeology & History Museum you can follow 150 years of Ottoman influence and learn about the infamous Hungarian uprising. Neolog Synagogue, built in the 1800s, is only occasionally open to visitors, but you can still appreciate its Moorish-style facade from the outside.
Spend an evening enjoying the culture of Arad through its performing arts venues, including classical music by the Philharmonic Orchestra. Pick up tickets at the Palace of Culture an hour before performances. You can also enjoy concerts and plays at Ioan Slavici Theatre.
Visit Tel Arad National Park, formerly the home of an Early Canaanite walled city. Hike along forested trails to reach remains of an Israelite temple from the early settlement. Back in the city, have dinner at the popular Perla Muresului restaurant, which serves traditional Romanian cuisine with views of the Mures River.
Getting around Arad
Arad International Airport lies just four kilometres outside the city centre, offering rental cars, shuttles and trains for getting around. The city has a well-run tram system and numerous bus lines crisscrossing the downtown area and into the suburbs. Taxis and private drivers are available as well.