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Iasi Travel Guide, Romania

Located in the north-eastern part of Romania, Iasi has been for centuries the cultural, economic and academic centre of the historic region of Moldavia. This Iasi Travel Guide will try to present you some interesting and useful facts about the former capital of Romania.

Iasi Travel Guide – Geography and Climate

Iasi is located in a hilly region, covered by woods and vineyards. The city itself spreads over seven hills and is crossed by the little river Bahlui. The climate in this part of Romania can be characterized as continental: hot summers, cold winters and moderate rainfall.

Iasi Travel Guide – Transport

Iasi International Airport connects the city with Bucharest, Timisoara and several European capitals. Iasi Central Station represents the terminus point for numerous routes, including the legendary Timisoara Nord-Iasi train; it is also linked to Chisinau. RATP Iasi is in charge with local transportation, operating a complex network of trams and busses.

Iasi Travel Guide – Economy

The major employers in Iasi are represented by hospitals, research centers and universities. The recent years have brought important changes in the city’s economy, with the arrival of several multinational companies, the construction of two large commercial centers and the development of the IT sector. Iasi is also home to the ‘Antibiotice Iasi pharmaceutical company, as well as to some important public institutions.

Iasi Travel Guide – Accommodation

In terms of accommodation, Iasi comes with a full offer, ranging from high class hotels and luxury apartments to cozy inns. There are numerous 4 star hotels: Concordia, Bellaria, Grand Hotel Traian, Little Texas. Numerous bed and breakfast inns are located in the city center, as well as at the city outskirts (the general rule is: the further from the center, the lower the rates; but prices are varying a lot according to the facilities).

Iasi Travel Guide – Interesting Facts and Figures

The legend says that Iasi got its name from ancient times, when this territory was inhabited by the Thracian tribe known as “iasigeti”. Due to its location on seven hills, Iasi was nicknamed the “little Rome” by Romanian poet Mihai Eminescu. All Iasi travel guides you will list the Trei Ierarhi Church as the most popular attraction in the city. This wonderfully adorned church is said to have been covered in gold before the arrival of Ottoman invaders. Iasi is famous for its churches: there are more than 100 of them spread all over the city. One of the greatest public events in Iasi is the commemoration of St. Paraschiva, when pilgrims from all over the country come to Iasi and pray over the relics of the saint, asking for health, wisdom and prosperity.