Overlooking the Black Sea to the north of Constanța, Năvodari is a historic town originally known as Kara Koyun (“Black Sheep”). It is nestled on the shore of Lake Tasaul at the northern end of the Siutghiol isthmus and is a popular summer resort for its beach and lake-based water activities.
Things to do in Năvodari
Spend your days relaxing on Plaja Navodari, a wide stretch of sand that fronts the Black Sea. You can rent an umbrella and sun loungers from one of the waterfront kiosks, which also serve food and drinks throughout the day. A breezy promenade backs the sand, with several benches where you can watch the beachside action.
Between Năvodari and Constanța sprawls Lake Siutghiol, a sparkling lagoon that provides a popular setting for sailing and water skiing. In the middle of the lake is the small limestone island of Ovidiu, while the resort town of Mamaia stretches along the eastern shore. If you’re travelling with kids, you can take advantage of the waterslides and pools at the Aqua Magic Mamaia waterpark.
Năvodari is a convenient base for visiting Constanța, which is the oldest continuously inhabited city in Romania. Delve into the past at the National History and Archaeology Museum and admire the ancient tiled floors within the Roman Mosaics complex. Dominating the skyline of Constanța is the soaring minaret of the Great Mahmudiye Mosque, an architectural masterpiece that combines Neo-Egyptian, Neo-Byzantine and Neo-Romanesque styles.
Getting around Năvodari
Năvodari is around 30 minutes’ drive from Constanța and Mihail Kogălniceanu International Airport, which has flights to Istanbul, London and Cluj-Napoca. Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport is just under three hours away. Buses travel throughout the region, although the centre of Năvodari is compact enough to explore on foot.