Constanta, Romania

Romania’s oldest city with a beach-town spirit.

A grand, abandoned Art Nouveau casino building on the waterfront of Constanța, Romania, with icy rocks in the foreground and the Black Sea in the background.

Overview

Constanta, Romania Cruise Port

Constanța is Romania's oldest continuously inhabited city and its largest port on the Black Sea. With a history stretching back over 2,500 years, founded by Greek colonists, it was later a significant Roman city (known as Tomis) and a place of exile for the poet Ovid. Today, Constanța is a vibrant mix of ancient ruins, impressive historical buildings from its Roman and Ottoman past, Art Nouveau architecture, and modern urban development. It serves as a crucial maritime gateway for trade and tourism in the region.

Constanța is a significant cruise port of call for itineraries exploring the Black Sea and sometimes extended European or transatlantic voyages. Cruise ships typically dock at the Port of Constanța, which is a large commercial port. From the port, the city center and its main attractions are usually a short taxi ride or shuttle bus away. A visit to Constanța offers cruise passengers a unique opportunity to explore a lesser-known European destination, delve into ancient history, experience Romanian culture, and enjoy the coastal charm of the Black Sea.

Top Things to Do in Constanta, Romania

Explore the Old Town and Ovid Square

Wander through Constanța's Old Town, where you'll find charming cobblestone streets and a mix of architectural styles. The heart of this area is Ovid Square (Piața Ovidiu), dominated by a statue of the Roman poet Ovid, who was exiled here. The square is surrounded by historic buildings, including the National Museum of History and Archaeology.

Tip: Enjoy a coffee or traditional Romanian pastry at a café in Ovid Square to soak in the atmosphere.

Visit the National Museum of History and Archaeology

Located in Ovid Square, the National Museum of History and Archaeology houses one of the largest collections of Roman and Greek artifacts in Romania. Its exhibits trace Constanța's long history from its ancient Greek origins through Roman, Byzantine, and medieval periods.

Tip: Look for the impressive marble statue of Glycon, a serpent deity, and the collection of ancient pottery and jewelry.

Admire the Casino of Constanța

While currently closed for extensive restoration, the Casino of Constanța remains an iconic symbol of the city. This stunning Art Nouveau masterpiece, built on a cliff overlooking the Black Sea, offers a glimpse into the city's glamorous past and is a fantastic subject for photography.

Tip: Even from the outside, the architecture and its dramatic seaside location are worth a visit and make for excellent photos.

Stroll Along the Constanța Promenade & Seashore

Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Constanța Promenade, which stretches along the Black Sea coastline. It offers refreshing sea breezes, views of the port, and access to the city's urban beaches.

Tip: Look for the Genoese Lighthouse (Farul Genovez), a historic landmark dating back to the 13th century, located along the promenade.

Discover the Great Mosque of Constanța (Carol I Mosque)

Visit the Great Mosque of Constanța (Moscheea Carol I), an impressive Ottoman-era mosque with a striking minaret. Climb the 140 steps to the top of the minaret for panoramic views over the city and the Black Sea.

Tip: Dress modestly if entering the mosque. Its unique architecture reflects the city's diverse cultural influences.

Explore the Roman Edifice with Mosaic

Located near the National Museum, the Roman Edifice with Mosaic (Edificiul Roman cu Mozaic) offers a fascinating glimpse into ancient Tomis. These ruins include extensive Roman warehouses and a remarkably preserved mosaic floor, indicating the city's commercial importance in Roman times.

Tip: This site provides direct evidence of Constanța's deep Roman roots and its vital role as a trade center.

Overview