National Theatre and Romanian Opera
A historic architectural gem, this theatre offers captivating opera and theatre performances with a rich past.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Guided tours available
National Theatre and Romanian Opera
Best Time
Guided tours available
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic architectural gem, this theatre offers captivating opera and theatre performances with a rich past.
"Such a history in this building from 1906."
📅 Check Schedule in Advance
Performance dates can be sparse; confirm listings online to plan your visit. :calendar:
💺 Prepare for Cozy Seating
Chairs might not be the most comfortable for everyone. Consider this for longer shows. :chair:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Historic Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Admire the stunning architecture designed by European masters, a testament to early 20th-century design.
Guided Tours
Various locations within the theatre
Explore the rich history and behind-the-scenes secrets of this iconic building on a guided tour.
Live Performances
Main Auditorium
Experience captivating opera and theatre productions in a venue steeped in cultural significance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Check Performance Schedules
Comfort and Seasonality
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📅 Check Schedule in Advance
Performance dates can be sparse; confirm listings online to plan your visit. :calendar:
💺 Prepare for Cozy Seating
Chairs might not be the most comfortable for everyone. Consider this for longer shows. :chair:
Which Balkan-esque country has the best National theatre? Sorry if this format is getting repetitive.
☀️ Avoid Summer Heat
The theatre can be extremely hot in summer; opt for cooler months if possible. :sunwithface:
🚶♀️ Book a Guided Tour
Discover the building's history with informative tours offered weekly. :walking:
The National Theater
Tips
from all over the internet
📅 Check Schedule in Advance
Performance dates can be sparse; confirm listings online to plan your visit. :calendar:
💺 Prepare for Cozy Seating
Chairs might not be the most comfortable for everyone. Consider this for longer shows. :chair:
☀️ Avoid Summer Heat
The theatre can be extremely hot in summer; opt for cooler months if possible. :sunwithface:
🚶♀️ Book a Guided Tour
Discover the building's history with informative tours offered weekly. :walking:
🚫 No Outside Food/Drink
Be aware that outside food and beverages are not permitted inside. :noentrysign:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The National Theatre and Romanian Opera is praised for its rich history and impressive architecture, offering a glimpse into early 20th-century European design. Visitors appreciate the opportunity for guided tours that reveal the building's past. However, some find the seating uncomfortable and the venue can be very hot in the summer, with restrictions on outside food and drinks.
"The theatre was built between 1904 and 1906 by the Austrian architects Ferdinand Fellner and Hermann Helmer, who designed several theatres and palaces across Europe in the late 19th and early 20th century, including the theatres in Iași, Oradea, Timișoara, and Chernivtsi (Romanian: Cernăuți). The project was financed using only private capital: Sandor Ujfalfy bequeathed his domains and estates from Szolnok-Doboka County to the National Theatre Fund from Kolozsvár.
The theatre opened on 8 September 1906 with Ferenc Herczeg's Bujdosók. Until 1919, as Cluj was part of the Kingdom of Hungary, it was home to the local Hungarian National Theatre (Hungarian: Nemzeti Színház). The last performance of the Hungarian troupe was Shakespeare's Hamlet, September 30, 1919."
Cenan Dan
"Kinda old looking around the edges (and i mean old, not vintage). And the chairs are unbelievably uncomfortable 😑😑"
Joe Cali
"Such a history in this building from 1906. The authorities have an obligation and a legal responsibility towards the new generation to invest in the building consolidation ASAP. The guided tour is both in Romanian and in English. The tour is on weekly basis, each Friday at 3pm. Ticket cost: 15 ron/3 EUR."
Roxana Laura Popescu
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The National Theatre and Romanian Opera is centrally located in Cluj-Napoca, making it easily accessible. You can reach it by public transport, with several bus lines stopping nearby. Walking from the city center is also a pleasant option.
Parking in the city center can be challenging. There are paid parking lots and street parking options available, but they can fill up quickly, especially during performance times. It's advisable to check for available parking garages in advance.
Yes, the National Theatre and Romanian Opera is very close to the main square (Piața Unirii). It's a short and easy walk, allowing you to enjoy the city's atmosphere on your way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets can typically be purchased online through the official theatre website or at the box office. It's recommended to book in advance, especially for popular shows, as performances can sell out.
Box office hours can vary, so it's best to check the official website for the most current information. They are usually open during business hours on weekdays and may have extended hours on performance days.
Information on discounts for students, seniors, or other groups is usually available on the theatre's website or by contacting the box office directly.
While it's sometimes possible to get tickets on the day of the performance, it's not guaranteed, especially for high-demand shows. Booking in advance is the safest bet to secure your seat.
Policies for latecomers can vary by performance. Generally, latecomers may not be admitted until a suitable break in the performance to avoid disturbing the audience. Check the theatre's specific policy.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The theatre was constructed between 1904 and 1906 by Austrian architects Ferdinand Fellner and Hermann Helmer. It was financed entirely by private capital and has a rich history, serving as home to the Hungarian National Theatre until 1919.
Yes, guided tours are available weekly, typically on Fridays at 3 PM. These tours offer insights into the building's history and architecture and are conducted in both Romanian and English. The ticket cost is 15 RON.
Some visitors have noted that the chairs can be uncomfortable and legroom might be limited. It's something to be aware of, especially for longer performances.
The theatre can get very hot during the summer months, suggesting that air conditioning might be limited or absent. Visitors are advised to avoid attending performances in the summer due to the heat.
Photography policies can vary. While general photos of the architecture might be allowed, flash photography and recording during performances are usually prohibited to avoid disturbing the artists and audience.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Typically, there are no extensive dining facilities within the theatre itself, though there might be a small bar or cafe for refreshments.
No, outside food and drinks are generally not allowed inside the theatre. Visitors are advised to consume any food or beverages before entering the auditorium.
The theatre is located in the city center, surrounded by numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars offering a wide range of cuisines. You'll find plenty of options within walking distance for a pre- or post-performance meal.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, parents should be mindful of the seating comfort and potential heat during summer performances, which might affect younger children's attention spans. It's advisable to check the schedule for age-appropriate performances and consider the duration of shows. Bringing snacks or drinks is not allowed, so plan accordingly before entering.
🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts
The weekly guided tours are highly recommended, providing in-depth information about the theatre's past, its financing, and its role in the city's cultural life. The chance to explore a building that has stood since 1906, with its original (though perhaps less comfortable) seating, offers a tangible connection to the past.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History and Architecture
Originally, until 1919, when Cluj was part of the Kingdom of Hungary, the theatre served as the home for the Hungarian National Theatre. The transition in governance marked a shift in its cultural identity, with the last Hungarian performance being Shakespeare's Hamlet. This rich historical layering adds a unique depth to the building's significance.
Visitors can delve deeper into this history through guided tours. These tours, often available on Fridays, are conducted in both Romanian and English and provide fascinating insights into the theatre's past and its architectural grandeur. The cost for these tours is typically around 15 RON, offering excellent value for history enthusiasts.
Visitor Experience: Comfort and Practicalities
Another practical consideration is the theatre's temperature, especially during the summer months. Reports indicate that the venue can become 'excruciatingly hot' in the summer, leading some to advise against visiting during this period. This suggests that the theatre may have limited or no air conditioning, making warmer months less ideal for an enjoyable experience.
Furthermore, be aware of the venue's policies regarding outside food and drinks, which are not permitted inside. It's best to finish any snacks or beverages before entering the auditorium. Despite these points, many still find it a 'nice place to go to,' often noting a 'full house,' which speaks to its enduring popularity.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit