Discover Brăila: culture, nature and literature

A 7-kilometre-long waterfront promenade, literary memorial sites and a nature park accessible exclusively by boat give a trip to Brăila a range of different focuses. Faleza Dunării offers a long waterside promenade with an extensive collection of art monuments and sculptures. Brăila County also offers historic monasteries, museums and opportunities to observe nature.

Culture, literature and history

Muzeul Brăilei „Carol I” was founded by royal decree in 1881. Its departments include archaeology and natural sciences, as well as ethnography, folk art, and fine and decorative arts. Individual exhibitions may change. If you are particularly interested in one of these areas, check what is currently on display before your visit.

Măxineni Monastery also offers a glimpse into history: the Wallachian prince Matei Basarab founded it in 1636–1637. It is considered one of the most important historic landmarks in Brăila County. Centrul Cultural „Nicăpetre” was founded in 2001 to display the work of sculptor Nicăpetre, which was donated to Muzeul Brăilei „Carol I”. After renovation, it reopened to the public on 12 November 2010. Check the current visiting arrangements before you go.

Casa Memorială „Panait Istrati” is housed in a gardener’s cottage built in the Neo-Romanian style at the beginning of the 20th century. Since 1984, it has housed the “Panait Istrati” memorial exhibition. It features manuscripts, personal belongings and furniture, as well as signed books, rare editions and documentary photographs. The items on display may change; if you have a particular interest, it is advisable to check in advance.

Casa Memorială „Fănuș Neagu” is housed in the writer’s birthplace in the commune of Grădiștea; the house was converted into a museum in 2011. A biographical and bibliographical section, along with a photographic documentation section, displays portraits, books, personal belongings, writing implements, medals and diplomas. There is also a folklore section with household items, tools, carpets and typical interior features of a peasant home from the Bărăgan region. Visits may require prior arrangement.

The theatre in Brăila also offers a range of spaces: the Italian-style auditorium has 369 seats, and there is also a studio theatre. The foyers can be used for concerts, meetings and events. Check the current programme for specific dates and usage options.

Nature, water and relaxation

Balta Mică a Brăilei lies on one of the most important bird migration routes in the lower Danube basin; 207 bird species have been recorded there. Within the nature park, Lacul Chiriloaia is a spot for observing rare bird species. The park has 15 tourist routes on water and land. The park itself is accessible exclusively by water, by boat via one of the Danube branches. Check the current access conditions and route information before planning your visit.

The spa resort of Lacu Sărat is considered a green oasis and is said to have beneficial effects on the human body. The “Sfântul Pantelimon” Monastery, founded in 1996, is also located in the resort. Lacul Sărat contains therapeutic mud with a very high degree of mineralisation. If you are interested in bathing or treatment options, check their current availability in advance.

Eco Brăila Zoo is committed to protecting and conserving endangered species. Replicated habitats range from lush forests to deserts. This gives the zoo a different focus from birdwatching in the nature park.

Getting around and choosing accommodation

The free Visit Brăila app provides tourist information about attractions, restaurants and various experiences in Brăila. It also features fish-based recipes and recipes influenced by the region’s ethnic groups. App content may change; check the latest information if you are planning to use it.

The road route to Constanța follows the DN 21 to Însurăței, then the DN 21A to Țăndărei, and finally the E 15 at Vadul Oii. The route is 210 km long. Road and ferry connections may change; check the current conditions before travelling.

When looking for a hotel in Brăila, it helps to set a clear priority: do you want your stay to focus on museums and memorial sites, birdwatching or a visit to Lacu Sărat? Then check the location of a specific hotel in relation to the destinations in your own travel plans. This lets you choose accommodation based on the interests that matter most for your stay.

Discover more destinations: Brăila, Câineni-Băi, Vărsătura, Marasu, Victoria, Gara Ianca, Mehedinti, Harghita.

Return to the main travel overview: Romania.