Known as a base for visiting Moldavia’s ancient fortresses and Bucovina monasteries, Suceava has its own urban personality formed by a once-coveted spot on the Lviv-Istanbul trading route. Museums and centuries-old architecture sit alongside modern nightclubs and espresso shops.

Things to do

The most recognisable landmark in Suceava is the 14th-century Royal Citadel, a towering structure showcasing the area’s history. Kids will love exploring mysterious chambers and recreating battles on hi-tech touchscreens. Walk next door to Bucovina Village Museum to roam through traditional Bucovina homes relocated from small villages.

Head over to the Ethnographic Museum to see Moldavian folk costumes, tools and instruments, then visit Bucovina History Museum to browse exhibits highlighting the Bronze Age through to World War I and II. You’ll also find medieval armour and numismatics.

Churches, synagogues and monasteries reveal religious roots in the area. One of the more impressive structures is the Monastery of St. John the New, constructed over a 40-year period in the 1500s. Pilgrims come from near and far to pay respects to relics of Saint John tucked into a silver casket.

Dining in Suceava centres on local farms and dairies, whose offerings appear on menus, such as the ice cream salon at Natanael. Restaurant Centru Vechi features local wines and beers along with terrace dining in the evenings. Nightclubs such as Eclipse keep things going late with DJs and karaoke, while the Oscar Wilde pub tips a hat to Irish roots with Guinness and Irish stews.

Getting around

Iasi International Airport is about 148 kilometres from the city centre. You can rent a car at the airport or in the city. Buses, trains and taxis offer transportation to nearby cities.