Tucked into a valley in the Eastern Carpathian Mountains, Piatra Neamt boasts spectacular views of five towering mountain peaks with challenging hiking routes. Its rich Moldavian history is showcased inside numerous museums, ancient cathedrals and churches, while folklore festivals and classical music events bring travellers from across Europe.

Things to do

Museums tell the tales of Piatra Neamt from as far back as the Stone Age. Visit Cucuteni Museum to see pottery and artefacts from Neolithic cultures, then travel to the present at the Art Museum, which highlights modern and abstract art through tapestries, sculptures and paintings. Pop next door to browse through traditional art, ethnic costumes, wood furniture and woven handicrafts at the Ethnographic Museum.

Once a grand complex built by Stefan cel Mare in the late-1400s, Princely Court still carries an air of intrigue. The Princely Court Exposition safeguards the priceless ruins and showcases unearthed archaeological finds, such as pottery, rudimentary tools and weapons.

Travelling with little ones? They’ll be delighted to see wolves, foxes and bears at the Cozla Zoological Park. Tiered terraces ascend Mount Cozla, placing animals in natural environments. When hunger strikes, snag a table at Laguna for pizza, followed by gelato at Prisi Prod.

The town centre hosts small coffee bars and dessert shops selling sweet cakes, lattes, candies and ice cream. Near Cozla Park, you can try traditional Romanian cuisine and enjoy live music at Cercul Gospodinelor restaurant.

Getting around

You can rent a car at George Enescu International Airport in Bacau, about 60 kilometres south of Piatra Neamt. Minibuses, standard city buses and taxis service the city.