How to Get to Constanta. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Major Airports Serving Constanța

Constanțan is accessible by air, though international connections vary by airport.

Airport Information

Mihail Kogălniceanu International Airport (CND): Approximately 26 km (16 miles) north of Constanța city. It is the main airport for the region, handling mainly seasonal and domestic flights.
Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP), Bucharest: Located about 220 km (137 miles) northwest of Constanța, OTP is Romania's largest and busiest airport. Many international travelers fly into OTP and then continue their journey to Constanța by train or bus.
Flight frequency and prices to CND align with summer high season. Early booking for OTP secures better rates during peak holiday periods.

Airlines & Direct Flights

Understand your flight options and direct routes.

Flight Details

To CND: Mihail Kogălniceanu Airport mainly serves charter flights during the summer season. Wizz Air operates some direct flights, for example, to London Luton. TAROM operates domestic flights.
To OTP: Henri Coandă International Airport serves a wide range of international airlines, including low-cost carriers like Wizz Air and Ryanair, and full-service airlines like TAROM, Lufthansa, Air France, and British Airways.
Direct Flight Options from Major Global Hubs: Direct international flights to CND are limited, mostly seasonal charters. Direct flights to OTP are available from numerous major global hubs across Europe. Travelers from North America, Asia, or Australia will typically require at least one layover. Consider Dollar Flight Club for deals or Skyscanner for comparisons.

Taxi from CND

Taxis are available directly outside the terminal. Ensure the driver uses the meter, or agree on a fare beforehand.

Shuttle/Public Bus CND

Private shuttle services connect the airport to Constanța city. Public Bus Route 100C connects the airport to the train station.

Car Rental CND

Desks for major rental companies are available at the airport if you prefer to drive yourself.

Transfer Options from OTP to Constanța

Efficient Transfers

Train: The most common and efficient method. Take the Henri Coandă Express train from the airport to Bucharest North Railway Station (Gara de Nord). From Gara de Nord, frequent direct trains run to Constanța. Total travel time is approximately 3.5-4 hours.
Bus: Long-distance buses connect OTP to Constanța. These are less frequent than trains and can be slower due to traffic.
Car Rental: Car rental services are at OTP. Driving to Constanța via the A2 highway takes approximately 2.5-3 hours, depending on traffic conditions. Consider DiscoverCars.com for options.
Private Transfer: Pre-booked private car services offer a comfortable and direct transfer option, especially for groups or those with lots of luggage.

Airport Facilities and Services OTP

As a larger international airport, OTP provides extensive facilities, including duty-free shops, a wider selection of restaurants and cafes.
Numerous car rental agencies, currency exchange offices, ATMs, and airport lounges.
It also offers public transport connections to Bucharest city.
CND, as a smaller airport, offers basic facilities: car rental desks, a few cafes, and taxi stands.

Land Transportation

Border Crossing Info

Romania shares land borders with Bulgaria, Ukraine, Moldova, Hungary, and Serbia. As of March 31, 2024, Schengen rules apply to air and sea borders. Land border crossings for non-Schengen citizens continue with standard passport checks. EU/EEA citizens use national ID cards.

Train Connections

Romania’s national railway company, CFR Călători, operates train services. Direct and frequent trains connect Bucharest North Railway Station (Gara de Nord) to Constanța (2h 15m - 2h 45m). Both First and Second class are available. Advance booking is a good idea, especially for peak times. Image: Bucharest North Railway Station (Gara de Nord)

Long-Distance Bus

Numerous private bus companies operate routes to Constanța from various cities. Buses from Bucharest usually take between 2.5-3.5 hours. Tickets are purchased online, at bus stations (autogară), or sometimes directly from the driver. Constanța has a main bus station (Autogară Constanța) accessible by local public transport.

Self-Driving & Sea Arrivals

Self-Driving Considerations

Driving in Romania needs attention to specific requirements and road conditions.

Driving Information

Requirements: Valid national driving license. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended or legally for non-EU/EEA citizens. At least 21 years old (sometimes 23-25 for certain car categories) and held license for at least 1-2 years.
Vehicle Documents: If renting, registration, proof of insurance (Green Card), and a valid vignette (electronic road tax sticker) are needed. Rental companies typically include the vignette.
Road Conditions: The A2 highway from Bucharest to Constanța is modern and in good condition. Other national roads vary; some can be narrow or have potholes. Drive with caution on secondary roads.

Sea/River Arrivals

While Constanțan is a major port, sea and river arrivals are less common for general tourist travel.

Waterborne Travel

Constanța Port: This is a major commercial and cruise port on the Black Sea. International cruise ships occasionally dock, allowing passengers to visit the city.
Ferry Services: No regular passenger ferry services connect Constanța to other Black Sea ports for general tourist travel. Commercial shipping dominates port activities.
River Transportation: The Danube River connects to the Black Sea via the Danube-Black Sea Canal. Limited passenger boat tours operate, but it is mainly for commercial shipping.

Road Conditions & Safety

Driving habits in Romania can be assertive. Be aware of horse-drawn carts in rural areas, pedestrians, and cyclists.

Safety on the Roads

Major highways like the A2 are well-maintained. Secondary roads can be less predictable, with varying surfaces and occasional potholes.
Observe speed limits and traffic rules, like yielding to trams. Speed limits are strictly enforced, and police use radar.
Drink-driving is strictly prohibited and heavily penalized, with zero tolerance. Wearing seatbelts is mandatory for all occupants.

Departure Information

Plan your departure routes carefully to save time and effort.

Smooth Departure

Exit Fees or Taxes: No specific departure or exit taxes levied directly on travelers leaving Romania. Any airport taxes are typically included in the flight ticket price.
Departure Procedures and Timing: For international flights, arrive at least 2-3 hours before scheduled departure. For train or bus departures, arrive at least 30 minutes before.
Online Check-in: Utilize online check-in for flights where available. This saves time at the airport and enables direct security access if you only have carry-on luggage.

Immigration Procedures at Seaports

For cruise passengers arriving from outside the Schengen Area, standard immigration procedures apply upon disembarkation.
These are similar to airport arrivals, involving passport presentation and potential biometric data collection.
Cruise port terminals usually have taxis directly outside. Sometimes, cruise lines arrange shuttle services for passengers to the city or attractions.

Airport/Station Facilities (CND): Mihail Kogălniceanu Airport offers basic waiting areas, cafes, and limited duty-free shops.
Airport/Station Facilities (OTP): Henri Coandă International Airport provides extensive facilities, including dining options, shops, lounges, and currency exchange.
Train/Bus Stations: Offer basic waiting areas, kiosks for snacks, and restrooms. Larger stations may have small shops or cafes.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Gain independence to explore beyond the city limits.

Car Rental Requirements

Requirements: At least 21 years old (some categories may require 23-25). Valid driving license, held for at least 1-2 years. For non-EU/EEA citizens whose license is not in Latin script, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended or legally needed.
A major credit card in the driver's name is for the security deposit.
Companies: Major international companies like Hertz, Avis, Europcar, and Enterprise operate at CND Airport and within Constanța city. Local Romanian companies also offer rentals. Booking in advance is recommended.

Motorcycle, Scooter & Bicycle

Alternative options for personal transport.

Two-Wheeled & Pedal Options

Motorcycle and Scooter Rentals: Less common for tourists than car rentals. Limited options from specialized local rental shops. Requirements typically include a valid motorcycle license.
Bicycle Sharing Programs and Rentals: Some hotels or guesthouses may offer bicycle rentals. Dedicated bike-sharing programs are limited; check local information upon arrival. Promenades and parks offer pleasant routes.
Helmets are recommended for cycling safety, though not legally mandatory for adults.

Mamaia Tourist Train

A small open-air tourist train runs along the Mamaia resort promenade during summer. It offers scenic rides.

Mamaia Gondola

A cable car system provides aerial views of the Mamaia resort and the Black Sea, offering an unique perspective.

Accessibility Services

Accessibility is improving. Newer buses offer some features. Older city parts, including Old Town, pose challenges for mobility needs.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Exploring Constanțan on foot offers unique views of the city's historical charm and coastal beauty.

Walking Routes

Old Town (Peninsula): Highly pedestrian-friendly, with narrow, cobblestone streets. Ideal for exploring historical sites.
Constanța Beachfront Promenade: Extends along the Black Sea coast. Excellent for leisurely walks, offering sea views.
Mamaia Promenade: A long pedestrian area along the resort's beach. For strolls, accessing beach clubs, and enjoying the lively atmosphere.

Walking Tour Options

Guided or self-guided tours immerse you in the city's narratives.

Explore Constanțan on Foot

Guided: Various local tour operators offer guided walking tours of the Old Town. These tours cover history, architecture, and local stories.
Self-guided: Numerous online resources and maps are available. These often focus on specific themes, like Roman ruins, Art Nouveau architecture, or maritime history.
Parc Tăbăcărie: A large urban park near Lake Tăbăcărie, offering green spaces and walking paths suitable for a relaxing stroll.

Bicycle Infrastructure & Safety

Bike Lanes

Constanța has some designated bike lanes, but they are not extensive or always continuous throughout the city.

Road Cycling

Cycling on busy roads can be challenging due to traffic. Use caution on main roads.

Leisure Cycling

For leisure, the promenades, especially in Mamaia, and parks offer safer and more pleasant options. Helmets are recommended.

Areas to Approach with Caution

No specific "no-go" areas for pedestrians or cyclists. Busy main roads with heavy traffic or a lack of sidewalks need caution. Prioritize your safety and use designated pedestrian crossings.

How to Get to Constanta