Sometimes , escaping the daily routine just for a day or two (or a weekend) is exactly what anyone needs and we make no exception. We often plan short trips over the weekends and hiking day trips to break the routine. Here are some ideas for those who visit Arad – or live here – and want to travel close-by.

1. Moneasa

The mountain resort is within easy reach from Arad by car or bus. The bus takes 3 hours and the fare is 25 lei/one way. I would recommend visiting the resort during a weekend, though. You can easily find accommodation starting at 50 lei/double room/night.

During the summer, you can hike the trails while during winter you can try your luck at tackling the snow.

2. Lipova / Radna Monastery / Soimos Citadel

You can easily get to Lipova by car or train. Get off at Radna stop. Then you can visit the city – not that there’s too much to do, but still -, walk to the Monastery, hike up behind it and also go to Soimos Citadel (7 km walk from the train station). It’s easily done within a day trip.

3. Hodos-Bodrog Monastery

It can be reached by train or car. It is located 15 km from Arad and is an old monastery, filled with secrets…and serenity.

4. Timisoara

Before we had our own Mall with CinemaCity in Arad, people would go to Timisoara and they still go to check out clubs and bars . The nightlife is somewhat different than the one in Arad. I remain a non-fan of Timisoara though.

5. Oradea

Another large town, but this time to the North. It may be worth it to take a train, bus or car ride to the city and check out the historical sites.

6. Szeged, Hungary

Just a short hop over the border, Szeged offers historical sites, good food, excellent coffee and a good excuse to just…travel.

7. Budapest, Hungary

It takes 4 h by train and less than that by car to get to Hungary’s capital and it’s best to plan a weekend trip. I recommend the Christmas Market for the mulled wine and handmade stuff. I also recommend Hard Rock Cafe and the many superb sites. Walk along the Danube, see the city from above, enjoy the food. Stay the night for 21 euros / 2 persons at Dominik Panzio.

8. Ceala Forest

It can be reached after a 45 min walk from the city center. There are plenty of trails within the forest and you can also choose to catch some tan (during summer, of course).

>>read more about: A walk in the woods

9. Siria

Home to Romanian writer Ioan Slavici, Siria is easily reached by bus or train . Hike up to the citadel and spend some time in nature. Hike down and take a detour to Feredeu Monastery.

10. Macea

Located just 23 km from Arad, Macea is home to a beautiful botanical garden. We visited on a lovely fall day but it can be just as nice during spring. The easiest way is to drive there, so if you don’t have a car, ask your friends to tag along (or rent a car if you have a license).

11. Gyula

Gyula can easily be reached by car from Arad in about 1 1/2 h. It’s a small (really small with 35,000 inhabitants) city but it’s picturesque and filled with tourists. The Castle, the lovely center and the thermal baths attracts tourists from Europe (mostly).

12. Oroshaza

By definition, a resort where thermal spas are at their best. It can be easily a day trip (whether you drive there or take the train). You can spend time splashing in the various pools, enjoying the good weather or playing beach volley.

All photos by Cristina P. and may not be used without permission