Mehedinți, Romania Travel Guide
Discover Mehedinți, Romania: A blend of natural beauty, rich history, and authentic cultural experiences in the heart of the Carpathians and along the Danube.
Nestled in the southwestern part of Romania, Mehedinți is a treasure trove of natural beauty and historical riches. This picturesque county is bordered by the majestic Danube River and the stunning Carpathian Mountains, offering a perfect blend of scenic landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you are an avid hiker, a history buff, or simply someone who enjoys the tranquility of nature, Mehedinți has something to offer. The Iron Gates, a spectacular gorge on the Danube River, is one of the highlights of the region. The breathtaking views and the impressive hydroelectric dam make it a must-see attraction. Nearby, you can explore the Iron Gates Natural Park, home to diverse flora and fauna, and a paradise for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. Mehedinți is also rich in history and culture. The city of Drobeta-Turnu Severin bears witness to the Roman Empire's influence, with remnants like the Trajan's Bridge and the Severin Fortress. The Topolnița Cave, one of the longest caves in Romania, offers a fascinating underground adventure with its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Don't miss the chance to visit the traditional villages scattered across the county. These villages offer a glimpse into Romania's rural life, with their charming wooden houses, local crafts, and warm hospitality. Mehedinți is not just a destination; it's an experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Mehedinți.
- Visit during spring or autumn for the best weather and fewer crowds.
- Bring comfortable hiking shoes for exploring the natural parks and caves.
- Don't forget your binoculars for bird watching in the Iron Gates Natural Park.
- Try the local cuisine, especially traditional Romanian dishes in the rural villages.
- Learn a few basic Romanian phrases; locals appreciate the effort and it enhances your experience.
Top City Travel Guides in Mehedinți
The cities of Mehedinți, and the easiest places to base yourself.
Explore Mehedinți: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More
Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more
Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Mehedinți
Top-rated picks
Best Attractions
Browse the full guide
All Attractions
The Infinite Column
Experience the breathtaking Infinite Column in Târgu Jiu, a monumental sculpture by Constantin Brâncuși symbolizing eternity and sacrifice.
Restaurant Taverna Sârbului
Discover the flavors of Romania at Taverna Sârbu - a traditional gastropub with stunning views and exquisite angler fish dishes in Drobeta-Turnu Severin.
Rock Sculpture of Decebalus
Explore the breathtaking Rock Sculpture of Decebalus in Dubova, a monumental tribute to Dacia's last king amidst stunning landscapes.
"Saint Ana" Monastery
Experience the serene beauty and rich spiritual heritage of Saint Ana Monastery in Orșova, a captivating destination for peace and reflection.
Best landmarks in Mehedinți
Top-rated picks
Best Landmarks
Browse the full guide
All Landmarks
Rock Sculpture of Decebalus
Explore the stunning Rock Sculpture of Decebalus, a symbol of Dacian heritage, nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of the Danube River.
The Fortress of Severin
Discover the historical wonders of The Fortress of Severin in Romania, where medieval architecture meets breathtaking views along the Danube River.
God's Bridge
Explore the breathtaking God's Bridge in Romania, where natural beauty meets adventure in a stunning limestone formation.
Fântâna Cinetică
Explore Fântâna Cinetică, a stunning kinetic fountain in Drobeta-Turnu Severin, where art meets nature in a vibrant park setting.
Best restaurants in Mehedinți
Top-rated picks
Best Restaurants
Browse the full guide
All Restaurants
Restaurant Taverna Sârbului
Discover authentic Romanian flavors at Restaurant Taverna Sârbului in Drobeta-Turnu Severin – where tradition meets culinary excellence.
CRAFT Restaurant & Delivery
Experience culinary creativity with gourmet pizzas and local favorites at CRAFT Restaurant & Delivery in Drobeta-Turnu Severin.
Kripton Pub&Grill
Experience the best of Romanian cuisine at Kripton Pub&Grill with delicious fish dishes, burgers & live music in Drobeta-Turnu Severin.
Conacu' Boierului
Discover comfort and culinary excellence at Conacu' Boierului – your perfect escape in scenic Ponoarele.
Best bars in Mehedinți
Top-rated picks
Best Bars
Browse the full guide
All Bars
Restaurant Taverna Sârbului
Experience the best of Romanian cuisine at Taverna Sârbului, where traditional dishes meet a modern gastropub atmosphere in Drobeta-Turnu Severin.
Kripton Pub&Grill
Savor delicious dishes and live music at Kripton Pub&Grill in Drobeta-Turnu Severin, where culinary delights await every visitor.
Queen's Cafe&Lounge
Experience the best of Italian cuisine at Queen's Cafe & Lounge, where gourmet pizzas and fine wines await in Drobeta-Turnu Severin.
Trattoria Il Calcio
Discover the authentic flavors of Italy at Trattoria Il Calcio, a charming gastropub in Drobeta-Turnu Severin offering delicious cuisine and a cozy atmosphere.
Best nightclubs in Mehedinți
Top-rated picks
Best Nightclubs
Browse the full guide
All Nightclubs
C’PUB
Experience local flavors and vibrant entertainment at C’PUB, your go-to pub in Drobeta-Turnu Severin, a must-visit spot for foodies and socializers alike.
Yachting Club La Vella
Experience vibrant nightlife, gourmet dining, and serene wellness at Yachting Club La Vella, nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Dubova, Romania.
Cremma Sunny Beach
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Cremma Sunny Beach, a must-visit bar in Drobeta-Turnu Severin, offering refreshing drinks and unforgettable moments.
Club La Lu
Discover the culinary essence of Romania at Club La Lu, a charming restaurant in Bozovici offering local delicacies in a cozy atmosphere.
Best shops in Mehedinți
Top-rated picks
Best Shops
Browse the full guide
All Shops
Severin Shopping Center
Discover a shopping paradise at Severin Shopping Center with diverse stores, delectable dining, and a lively atmosphere in Drobeta-Turnu Severin.
Carrefour
Experience the best of shopping at Carrefour, Drobeta-Turnu Severin, where variety meets quality in a modern hypermarket.
Decebal Shopping Center
Discover a world of shopping, dining, and entertainment at Decebal Shopping Center in Drobeta-Turnu Severin, Romania.
Travel FREE Shop Turnu-Severin
Explore unbeatable deals and a diverse selection at Travel FREE Shop in Drobeta-Turnu Severin, the ultimate discount shopping destination.
Explore Mehedinți on the Map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Mehedinți, mapped for you.
Mehedinți Essentials
-
Mehedinți County is located in the southwestern part of Romania. The nearest international airport is Craiova International Airport, approximately 120 kilometers away. From Craiova, you can take a bus or a train to Drobeta-Turnu Severin, the county seat of Mehedinți. The journey typically takes around 2 to 3 hours by road or rail. Alternatively, you can rent a car at the airport for more flexibility in exploring the region.
-
Public transportation in Mehedinți includes buses and trains that connect major towns and cities. Local buses and taxis are available for short distances within towns. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring rural areas and natural attractions at your own pace. Biking is also a popular way to explore the scenic routes along the Danube River and other natural landscapes.
-
The official currency in Romania is the Romanian Leu (RON). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in major towns like Drobeta-Turnu Severin, but it’s wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to more remote locations.
-
Mehedinți is generally a safe destination for tourists. Standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keeping an eye on personal belongings in crowded places. While there are no areas with high crime rates specifically targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
-
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, medical services, and fire departments. Drobeta-Turnu Severin has a hospital and several medical facilities. Pharmacies are available in towns for over-the-counter medications. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
-
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Cover your head and shoulders when entering churches and monasteries. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t talk loudly or play music on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a polite handshake. A friendly nod is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
-
To experience Mehedinți like a local, visit the local markets to purchase fresh produce and traditional Romanian goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the region’s history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the Iron Gates Natural Park and the Trajan’s Bridge ruins. For a unique experience, take a boat tour along the Danube River to see the stunning landscapes and rock formations.
When is the best time to visit Mehedinți?
Useful Local Phrases for Mehedinți
You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.
— Eve
Here are the phrases I use most often in Mehedinți. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️
-
- HelloSalut
[sah-loot] - GoodbyeLa revedere
[lah reh-veh-deh-reh] - YesDa
[dah] - NoNu
[noo] - Please/You're welcomeTe rog/ Cu plăcere
[teh rog/ koo plah-cheh-reh] - Thank youMulțumesc
[mul-tzoo-mesk] - Excuse me/SorryScuză-mă/Îmi pare rău
[skoo-zah-mah/ eem pah-reh rah-oo] - How are you?Ce mai faci?
[cheh mai fahch] - Fine. And you?Bine. Dar tu?
[bee-neh. dar too?] - Do you speak English?Vorbești engleză?
[vor-besht eng-leh-zah?] - I don't understandNu înțeleg
[noo in-tzeh-leg]
- HelloSalut
-
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAș dori să văd meniul, vă rog
[ahsh doh-ree sah vehd meh-nyool, vah rog] - I don't eat meatNu mănânc carne
[noo muh-nank kar-neh] - Cheers!Noroc!
[noh-roc] - I would like to pay, pleaseAș dori să plătesc, vă rog
[ahsh doh-ree sah plah-tessk, vah rog]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAș dori să văd meniul, vă rog
-
- Help!Ajutor!
[ah-joo-tor] - Go away!Du-te!
[doo-teh] - Call the Police!Sunați Poliția!
[soo-natz poh-lee-tsee-ah] - Call a doctor!Sunați un doctor!
[soo-natz oon dok-tor] - I'm lostM-am pierdut
[mahm pyehr-doot] - I'm illSunt bolnav
[soont bol-nahv]
- Help!Ajutor!
-
- I'd like to buy...Aș dori să cumpăr...
[ahsh doh-ree sah koom-pair...] - I'm just lookingMă uit doar
[muh oo-eet doar] - How much is it?Cât costă?
[kuht koh-stah?] - That's too expensiveAsta e prea scump
[ahs-tah eh preh-ah skoomp] - Can you lower the price?Poți să scazi prețul?
[poh-tsih sah skahz preh-tsool?]
- I'd like to buy...Aș dori să cumpăr...
-
- What time is it?Ce oră e?
[cheh oh-rah eh?] - It's one o'clockEste ora unu
[yeh-steh oh-rah oo-noo] - Half past (10)Jumătate după (10)
[zhoo-mah-tah-teh doo-pah (10)] - MorningDimineață
[dee-mee-neh-ah-tsah] - AfternoonDupă-amiază
[doo-pah ah-mee-ah-zah] - EveningSeară
[seh-ah-rah] - YesterdayIeri
[yehr] - TodayAstăzi
[ahs-tahz] - TomorrowMâine
[mee-neh] - 11
[unu] - 22
[doi] - 33
[trei] - 44
[patru] - 55
[cinci] - 66
[șase] - 77
[șapte] - 88
[opt] - 99
[nouă] - 1010
[zece]
- What time is it?Ce oră e?
-
- Where's a/the...?Unde e...?
[oon-deh eh...?] - What's the address?Care e adresa?
[kah-reh eh ah-dreh-sah?] - Can you show me (on the map)?Îmi poți arăta (pe hartă)?
[eem potz ah-rah-tah (peh har-tah)?] - When's the next (bus)?Când vine următorul (autobuz)?
[kand vee-neh oor-mah-toh-rool (ow-toh-booz)?] - A ticket (to ....)Un bilet (la....)
[oon bee-let (lah....)]
- Where's a/the...?Unde e...?
History of Mehedinți
-
Mehedinți's history traces back to its Dacian roots, with archaeological evidence indicating settlements from as early as the 1st century BC. The Dacians, known for their fortresses and warrior culture, laid the foundational heritage of the region. Sarmizegetusa Regia, the Dacian capital nearby, influenced Mehedinți's early development.
-
In 106 AD, the Roman Empire, under Emperor Trajan, conquered Dacia, including the Mehedinți area. The Romans established forts and roads, leaving behind a legacy of architecture and culture. The remnants of the Roman camp at Drobeta, near the Iron Gates, stand as a testament to this era.
-
During the medieval period, Mehedinți became a significant part of Wallachia. The region witnessed the rise of local rulers like Mircea the Elder and Vlad the Impaler, who fortified the land against Ottoman incursions. The medieval fortress of Severin, built in the 13th century, played a crucial role in the defense of the area.
-
The 15th to 17th centuries saw Mehedinți at the forefront of the resistance against the Ottoman Empire. The region endured numerous battles and uprisings, with figures like Michael the Brave leading revolts. The constant conflict shaped the resilient spirit of the local population.
-
The 19th and early 20th centuries brought modernization to Mehedinți. The construction of the Iron Gates hydroelectric plant in the 1960s marked a significant industrial milestone. Modern Mehedinți has since balanced industrial progress with the preservation of its rich cultural heritage.
-
Mehedinți is renowned for its vibrant folk traditions, including music, dance, and crafts. The region's cultural identity is celebrated through festivals like the annual Mehedinți Folk Festival, which showcases traditional costumes, music, and dances that have been passed down through generations.
-
Mehedinți is home to stunning natural landscapes, including the Iron Gates Natural Park and the Mehedinți Plateau Geopark. These areas are not only rich in biodiversity but also in geological and historical significance, offering a unique glimpse into the natural heritage of the region.
Neighbouring Regions of Mehedinți
The closest regions to Mehedinți, if you have time for more than one.
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
Explore More of Romania
Looking beyond Mehedinți? Discover Romania for broader travel guides, local hot-spots, and regional highlights.
Explore RomaniaMehedinți in Photos
Browse through our photo collection highlighting the charm and character of the destination.
Mehedinți: Romania's Hidden Gem of Natural Splendor
Nestled in the southwestern part of Romania, Mehedinți is a treasure trove of natural beauty and historical riches. This picturesque county is bordered by the majestic Danube River and the stunning Carpathian Mountains, offering a perfect blend of scenic landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you are an avid hiker, a history buff, or simply someone who enjoys the tranquility of nature, Mehedinți has something to offer. The Iron Gates, a spectacular gorge on the Danube River, is one of the highlights of the region. The breathtaking views and the impressive hydroelectric dam make it a must-see attraction. Nearby, you can explore the Iron Gates Natural Park, home to diverse flora and fauna, and a paradise for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. Mehedinți is also rich in history and culture. The city of Drobeta-Turnu Severin bears witness to the Roman Empire's influence, with remnants like the Trajan's Bridge and the Severin Fortress. The Topolnița Cave, one of the longest caves in Romania, offers a fascinating underground adventure with its impressive stalactites and stalagmites. Don't miss the chance to visit the traditional villages scattered across the county. These villages offer a glimpse into Romania's rural life, with their charming wooden houses, local crafts, and warm hospitality. Mehedinți is not just a destination; it's an experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories.