For travelers with a layover in Cluj-napoca, the proximity of CLJ to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 50 minutes via Bus (Lines 5 and 8), and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
Before You Step Outside CLJ
A few things to sort out before you leave CLJ:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Romania. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Cluj-napoca takes about 50 minutes by Bus (Lines 5 and 8). Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is RON. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
Getting to Cluj-napoca from the Airport
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus (Lines 5 and 8) | ~50 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~70 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Bus (Lines 5 and 8) is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Luggage Storage at CLJ
Specific locker facilities at CLJ aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Cluj-napoca itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
What to Budget for Your Cluj-napoca Side Trip
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Cluj-napoca:
Transport to the city and back runs about $6 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $12 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $28 USD total.
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
Exploring Cluj-napoca on a Layover
If you head into Cluj-napoca, here are two things worth checking out:
Union Square (PiaÈa Unirii) & St. Michael’s Church is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. The architecture is worth seeing, even from the outside.
Matthias Corvinus House is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at CLJ, check out Transilvania Business Lounge or CLJ Duty-Free Shop to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Grab a Meal
For food in Cluj-napoca, local travelers recommend Roata. If you have time for a second stop, Via Restaurant is another popular pick.
Back at CLJ, Délice Restaurant & Bar is the go-to. Trattoria Milano rounds out your in-terminal options.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at CLJ, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Cluj-napoca itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Romania that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, CLJ has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Cluj-napoca doesn’t have to be wasted time. With the city just 50 minutes from CLJ, you’ve got a real opportunity to turn a stopover into a mini-trip. The logistics are straightforward — it’s just a matter of deciding to go for it.
Watch the clock, travel light, and have a great time out there.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.