Date of travel: Aug 28, 2018
Constanta is a port city on the western shores of Black Sea and is fourth largest city of Romania. Picturesque seaside promenade, historical buildings at old town and lovely beaches make this great city a very popular tourist spot.
Short History:
Founded around 600 BC as the Greek colony Tomis, Constanta is the oldest continuously inhabited city in the region. In the third century AD, the city was renamed Constanta by Roman Emperor Constantine the Great probably to honour his half-sister Constantia.
Constanta should not be confused with Constantinople (now known as Istanbul) also founded by the same Emperor in 330 AD.
Geographical Highlights:
Constanta port today is the largest on the Black Sea and 17th largest in Europe covering an area of 9700 acres. Although the Danube river does not flow through the port, it is connected by Danube- Black Sea Canal.
Our Journey:
It was summer of 2018 and we were touring Romania with two major attractions in mind, Transylvania and Constanta. Constanta is at a distance of 220 Km from Bucharest and we had a scenic drive through Calarasi city, situated on the bank of river Danube. A comfortable 2-and-half hour drive and we were in the lovely port city.
Main Sights:
Ovid’s Square: We started with the central square in old town which was full with admiring tourists. This former Independent square is now known as Ovid Square, named after Roman poet Ovid who was exiled by Roman Emperor Augustus to this very city in 8 AD which was then known as Tomis.
There is a statue of Ovid in front of National History and Archeological Museum, which is a masterpiece of art.
We visited Grand Mosque, admired grand interior of Orthodox Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul and toured House of Lions, a 19th century building with imposing structures of lions on its four columns.
Touristic Port of Tomis:
Touristic harbour of Tomis is a vibrant and famous location of Constanta for both locals and tourists. We accessed the harbour through a street from the old town that directly descended to the bay, where sailing boats and luxury yachts were parked. We walked along the waterfront enjoying gentle sea breeze blowing over lovely Black Sea. We could not resist ourselves from sitting in one of numerous bars and restaurants inviting to enjoy the local seafood delicacies while admiring the nature at its best.
Water sports, day cruise, dolphin watching activities, sunset cruises are major attractions in this harbour.
Constanta Casino:
Next we walked down towards the Casino, most famous landmark of Constanta. Built by the initiative of Romania’s first King, Carol l in 1910, it was the main meeting point for rich tourists till Second World War.
A grand building, a great piece of architecture, the casino is still the symbol of Constanta. Surrounded by a breath taking scenery, with the seagulls and Black Sea in the background, the Casino and the promenade is the most visited tourists attractions on the seaside. The busy but lovely promenade has many bars and restaurants at one end, a lovely garden with many beautiful statues and an aquarium in front of the casino.
Mamaia Beach:
Mamaia, located on the northern side of Constanta, is the most popular summer resort in Constanta. Mamaia is only 8 km long and 300-meter wide but is vibrant with many high end resorts, clubs, water sports activities, and theme parks. Aqua Magic Water Park, Lunar Park and Tele gondola rides are among other major attractions in this very busy resort town.
Many seaside restaurants offer excellent seafood preparations and Mediterranean cuisine with prices ranging from affordable to upscale. We relaxed at Argo Beach restaurant which was excellent for food and offered scenic views of Black sea.
Nightlife is vibrant and abundant at Mamaia and has a lively party scene every evening with many clubs arranging concerts, pool parties and fine dining options.
We relaxed on the beach, enjoyed its soothing water, watched beautiful unset over the Black Sea and left for Bucharest after soaking in a perfect blend of history, culture and relaxation.
How to Reach:
- By Air – Airport is 26 Km away from city centre.
- By Train –Constanta Rail station is well connected to Bucharest and other nearby cities.
- By Road – Frequent bus services available. Taxis and private cars are abundant. Many day trips are available from Constanta and other cities through online agencies like Viator or Get Your Guide.
- By Sea – Ferry services to nearby ports and destinations available.
When to Visit:
June to August: Best time for beach activities,
March to May: Fewer tourists, moderate temperature but occasional rains,
September to November: Comfortable temperature but increased rainfall,
December to February: Freezing sea but Christmas time is very busy season.
Local Cuisine:
Other than fresh fish and seafood specialities one should try following local Delicacies:
Cabbage Rolls with minced meat,
Grilled or fried meatballs,
Mititei, type of small sausages,
Papanasi and Gogosi types of doughnuts.
Where to Stay:
From luxury 7* hotels to budget friendly accommodations are available. I am listing some of them in an unbiased manner.
Luxury Hotels – Phoenicia Royal, Europa Hotel, Arena Regia hotel, Summer Nest etc.
Mid-range hotels – Hotel Oxford, Hotel Carol and many others.
Budget-friendly – Voila Mamaia, On Plonge Junior etc.
17 thoughts on “A Day at Elegant Constanta and Vibrant Mamaia Beach”
Wonderful description of the place. 👌
You draw such vivid pictures that we can visualize them and feel like we are also there.
It goes for all your blogs.
Thank you so much.
Thanks a lot.
Thanks for your valuable feedback.
Beautifully written Travelogue. I am really impressed with details of off beat travel destinations . I am really getting tempted to explore these beautiful places.
You can even write a book.
Thanks dear, highly motivated by your kind words.
Very impressive, excellent description, photos are very attractive, carry on Brother
Thank you Rajat for your encouraging words.
Lovely Dada
I think i had the best pasta of my life with the best site seeing through my gental monster
Going to miss shri my room partner forever
Chalo constanta
Thanks Jayresh,
We all miss our friend Srikant, every moment.
A beautiful journey carefully crafted into a captivating piece!
This blog not only provides a glimpse into your adventures, but it also conveys your enthusiasm for exploration.
Making memories is only one aspect of a successful trip; another is spending time getting to know new people, discovering new places, and taking in the beauty of the world.
P.S. The lads look good together..😉
Thank you Vasanti for your feedback.
Those were the days which we remember so much. Now memories only.
very well written and designed and also very informative.
Thanks Ashoke for your valuable comments.
Awesome treat to the eyes..!!😍
Thanks, highly appreciate
Thanks a lot.