Lying on the Danube River, Galati is home to one of Romania’s largest shipyards and holds a place in literary lore as a port for Count Dracula’s ship in Bram Stoker’s novel. It’s also an alluring destination for travellers who enjoy majestic cathedrals, museums and botanical gardens, while local eateries serve traditional Romanian and Fleming cuisine.

Things to do

Life in Galati centres around its riverside location, with walking paths, coffee bars and cafes lining the banks. Families gather for picnicking and playgrounds, while joggers run by sculptures and outdoor art exhibitions. For spectacular views of the river, boats and city, follow the path up to Danube Cliff.

Explore the architecture and paintings inside Cathedral of Galati, one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks, before falling deeper back into history at the fortified 15th-century Precista Church. For spectacular views of the city and river, have lunch at the small cafe inside Turnul Televiziunii, a television tower open to the public.

Travelling with the family? You can spend an entire afternoon at the hi-tech complex harbouring the Science Museum, Astronomical Observatory and Aquarium. There’s also a botanical garden with indigenous flora and butterflies and a souvenir shop selling crystals, minerals and scientific gadgets.

Dining includes delicious seafood at Blue Aqua on the waterfront and traditional Romanian cuisine and music at Crama Lautarilor, including the signature "famouse papanashi" dessert. For Flemish specialities, snag a table at Ixelles.

Getting around

Mihail Kogălniceanu International Airport in Constanta is about 175 kilometres away. You can rent a car at the airport or in the city. Several bus routes connect Galati's main areas and tourist attractions.