Despite its complicated political history, Timisoara has gained popularity as a digital nomad hotspot over the recent years. Surrounded by mountains on all sides, this city is certainly desirable for nature lovers.
This part of western Romania housed a Roman fortress called Castrum Regium Themes before but it has become a tourist spot now. If you are thinking about packing your bags and moving here, make sure to learn some essentials. Let’s discuss some important things about living in Timisoara as a digital nomad and talk about different aspects.
Where is Timisoara located?
Located in the Banat Area, Timisoara is a historical city in western Romania. It is the capital of Timis County and lies across Hungary and Serbia’s border.
Fact: Did you know that Timisoara is home to over 332,000 people?
Why Choose Timisoara as a Digital Nomad? Pros and Cons
Much like any other place this great city also has its fair share of pros and cons. While some may find it a perfect place, others may face difficulty getting over the cons. Let’s delve into each and see if Timisoara is the right place for you.
| Pros | Cons |
| Rich cultural heritage | Relatively higher rents |
| Vibrant city | Traffic congestions |
| High-speed internet | Noise pollution |
| Friendly locals | |
| Natural beauty | |
| Affordable cost of living | |
| Rich culture | |
| Unique opportunities |
Despite having some flaws, we like to believe that Timisoara makes up for it by offering other benefits. For instance, the affordable cost of living certainly attracts more nomads to come and settle here. Other than that, the stunning architecture and landscapes also serve as an incentive.
If the natural beauty and historical masterpieces aren’t enough to compel you then the low cost of living will certainly work in your favour. All in all, this cosmopolitan city has a lot to offer to those who are willing to look past its flaws.
How to Get to Timisoara?
If you are travelling from abroad, your main focus should be on landing at the Timisoara airport. Since it’s located only 11 km away, a 22-minute car ride can get you to the city. Here are some of the ways you can travel.
buses
you can access Timisoara public bus 4 to get to the city centre from the airport. buses are not only well-developed and maintained but affordable as well. Bus 4B can take you to the railway station if you have any further plans.
car rentals
You can drive your rental car to the city as well. As mentioned above, the ride only takes 22 minutes. However, it also ensures safety and liberation.
taxis
taxis are readily available and easily accessible in this city which makes them a suitable option for travelling from the airport. you can hail a local yellow taxi after landing and travel comfortably. However, be aware of fraudulent taxi drivers who charge more from foreigners.
Transportation and How to Get Around Timisoara?
Once you have made it to the city successfully, here’s how you can get around daily.
Cycling
Cycling is one of the best options as it offers a feasible and reliable form of travelling. It might just be the most affordable option! You can travel at your own pace and have freedom of movement without having to spend large amounts. They can be rented through various bicycle rentals all over the city but purchase is recommended for longer stays.
Buses
Buses are also a viable way of getting around daily. The public transportation system in Timisoara is not only reliable and efficient but well-connected as well. Buses are certainly one of the most affordable ways of getting around. you can purchase the ACESS (contactless card system) to use public transport.
Trams
With well-developed lines available in the city, the tram system is also a great option. While they are slower than buses, they offer reliability and convenience.
Taxis
Since traffic is not half as bad in Timisoara as in Ho Chi Min, Chiang Mai, or other major cities, taxis are a great way of travelling here. Not only are they reliable but comfortable as well. In addition to the local yellow taxis, several reputable companies, such as Uber and Bolt, also operate in the city.
3 Best Accommodation Options in Timisoara
When it comes to accommodation in Timisoara, there are plenty of good options. This historic city has something to offer for everyone. Hence, you can find suitable housing quite easily.
Circumvalatiunii
If you want to be located near nature, green spaces, and botanical gardens then consider seeking residence in Circumvalatiunii. This is a great neighbourhood for digital nomads that houses various facilities. Grocery stores and shops are within walking distance as well which makes it an accessible place.
Olimpia-Stadion
Olympia-Stadium is another good place for digital nomads that offers numerous benefits and modern amenities. It’s also a good option for those of you who are looking for an affordable alternative. you’ll find a vast majority of students here and experience a creative vibe.
Cetate
if you’re someone who wants to experience the ultimate Timișoara lifestyle, seek accommodation in the city centre i.e. the infamous Cetate. With the main square and tourist attractions located within walking distance, this place is a perfect place for first-time visitors. If you’re willing to deal with the relatively higher prices and noisy crowds, Cetate is a great place.
Internet Connectivity in Timișoara
One of the best things about Timisoara is its fast internet. Remote workers would be happy to learn that the city experiences high internet speeds. As per estimations, the average speed is 86.55 Mbps (which is considered extraordinary). Fibre internet is fast and reliable in most parts of the city.
Other than that, coworking spaces and coffee shops offer fast and free WiFi as well. You can take your work with you and meet those deadlines! If you want additional reliability, consider purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival. There are a bunch of good providers in the city that offer affordable and efficient data plans.
E sim
If you want an extra reliable internet connection, consider opting for an E SIM. They allow you to digitalize SIMs and avoid the trouble of a physical SIM card. Here are some packages.
Airalo
| Data Package | Availability | Price |
| 1 GB | 7 days | 4.50$ |
| 2 GB | 15 days | 7.00$ |
| 3 GB | 30 days | 9.50$ |
| 5 GB | 30 days | 13.00$ |
| 10 GB | 30 days | 21.00$ |
Holafly
| Data Package | Availability | Price |
| unlimited | 7 days | 29.00$ |
| unlimited | 10 days | 37.00$ |
| unlimited | 15 days | 51.00$ |
| unlimited | 20 days | 62.00$ |
| unlimited | 30 days | 75.00$ |
4 Best Places to Work from in Timisoara
The good news for remote workers is that Timisoara has a rich variety of coworking spaces. you can find a suitable one and delve into work for hours.
Workify
Workify is one of the best coworking spaces in Timișoara with an easily accessible location and various amenities. Remote workers will be able to thrive in a productive work environment and enjoy the contemporary interior. They offer options including but not limited to meeting rooms and private desks. It’s a great place to network with like-minded individuals.
Devplant Cowork
Every Digital Nomad prefers a different type of working space. If you are looking for a space with an office-style layout and atmosphere, then Devplant is the best option for you. They have encouraged dedication by separating social and hangout areas from the working ones. You can also participate in their networking events and socialise with entrepreneurs.
Cowork Timișoara
Cowork Timisoara is one of the best coworking spaces in the city. You can work here comfortably while enjoying the relaxed and social environment. This is a good option for new visitors who want to meet up with their fellow Digital Nomad community and form connections.
Cafes
If you are someone who prefers working from Cafes rather than coworking spaces then take a look at the following options.
- Garage Cafe
- Specialty Coffee
- Statia de Cafea
- Street Coffee Roasters Timișoara.
Cost of Living in Timișoara
Luckily for remote workers, this city experiences an affordable cost of living that is suitable for tight budgets. While it is not the cheapest digital nomad destination out there, it’s certainly budget-friendly. A digital nomad can access various facilities and modern amenities at a cheap rate. Here is a rough breakdown of general expenses there.
| Meal | 6.72$ (6.09€) |
| Coffee | 2.06$ (1. 87€) |
| Beer | 1.51$ (1.37€) |
| Rent in the city centre (one-bedroom apartment) | 370.04$ (335€) |
| fitness club | 29.23$ (26.51€) |
| Utilities | 124.30$ (112.71€) |
| Local Transport | 0.58$ (0.53€) |
| Internet | 7.71$ (6.99€) |
As you can see, Timisoara is not all that expensive. You can live here on a tight budget and make the best out of your time. However, please note that the cost of living is defined by an individual’s spending pattern and lifestyle. If you follow a standard digital nomad lifestyle, you’ll find these estimates to be quite accurate.
Culture, Nature, and Food în Timișoara
Romania has a vibrant culture that is a concoction of various elements. Thanks to its rich history, you will see Hungarian, German, and even Jewish influence. Romania is a lively tapestry that depicts its local culture in various forms including but not limited to Music, Art, Literature, cultural events, and Folklore.
Nature lovers would be glad to know that Timisoara is a haven for natural beauty. There are a bunch of stunning botanical gardens, Green spaces, green areas, and parks located all over the city. Other than that, you’ll be sure to find the lush greenery quite refreshing!
Romanian food is pretty decent, depending on your personal preference. However, if you do like European food, you’ll find Timisoara to be a perfect place for food touring and cafe hopping. There are plenty of good restaurants, coffee shops, and street vendors in the city who follow traditional recipes and offer delicious food.
Best Time to Visit Timisoara
The best time to visit Timisoara can be determined by an individual’s weather preferences and personal taste. If you are a tourist who wants to explore the city and engage in outdoor activities then visit the city during the summer months. The temperatures range from 25-30 degrees Celsius on a regular basis and offer warmth. You can walk around on sunny days and enjoy warm afternoons.
However, winter months are very cold, and the temperature drops as low as -5 degrees Celsius. Timisoara offers stunning snowy scenes but the only way to enjoy them is by dressing properly.
12 Best Things to Do in Timisoara
One thing about Timisoara is that you’ll never be bored here. There is plenty to do in the city but here are some of our favourites.
1. Tour the city
Timișoara is a vital part of western Romania, and it’s no secret that it’s a historical tapestry. If you wish to explore the best of it and enjoy all that it offers, make sure to join a city tour. As a first-time visitor, it’s the best way to cover all the popular destinations. Other than that, a walking tour allows you to connect with fellow tourists, learn important facts, and explore the city in the most precise way possible.
2. Visit the opera house
During your time in Timisoara, make sure to visit the infamous Opera House and enjoy an unforgettable evening. The tickets are affordable, but the experience in itself is elite, so make sure to check the shows out.
3. Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral
The Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral is a real ancient beauty. The influence of Medieval Byzantine Churches can be seen quite clearly as the cathedral stands tall and gorgeous. When in Timișoara, make sure to visit this piece of perfection and enjoy a dose of history.
4. Visit the Historic centre
If you want to immerse yourself in Timisoara’s stunning architecture and historical beauty, then visit the historic centre of the city. surrounded by cobble-stoned streets and cultural essence, this place offers a tranquil environment. you can walk around, marvel at the beauty, and people-watch for hours.
5. Take a River Boat Tour
Your visit to Timisoara will be incomplete without a proper Bega River Boat Tour. You can see unparalleled views of the city from the floating boat and enjoy a peaceful time. While boat tours last 2 to 2 ½ hours at most, they offer a splendid and entertaining experience.
6. Go bar hopping
If you want to enjoy the vibrant nightlife, make sure to go bar hopping in Timisoara! There are a range of cocktail bars and clubs in the city that offer an amazing experience and lively atmosphere. For a fun night out, consider dancing the night away at one of these bars and exploring as many as possible.
7. Go cafe hopping
Another great thing to do in Timisoara is go cafe hopping. Almost every Digital Nomad and remote worker has a special inclination and liking towards cafes. you’ll be happy to learn that this city houses tons of them. The cafe culture is pretty big around here and offers a variety of options.
8. Take a cooking class
If you get addicted to the delicious food in Timisoara, make sure to take a traditional cooking class. You can sign up and learn to cook authentic and traditional dishes. That is something that will surely stay with you even after you have left the city.
9. Visit the Museums
If you wish to appreciate and learn more about Romania’s rich and remarkable history then visit the historical museums of the city. The historically preserved exhibits allow you a look into the post and provide insightful information. some of the best options include:
- Museum of the Communist Consumer
- the Military Museum
- Banat Village Museum
- Revolution Memorial
- Museum of Banat
10. Visit the art galleries
If you want to spend a day surrounded by art and culture then consider visiting some of the famous museums in Timisoara. The galleries here feature stunning artwork by famous artists and allow you to marvel at contemporary art.
11. Take a day trip
When you are done exploring the beautiful city of Timisoara, take advantage of your convenient location and visit other nearby cities. Romania is a stunning country that has a lot to offer so consider taking a day trip and exploring as much of it as you can.
12. Connect with the digital nomad community
One of the best things to do in Bridgetown is connect with the digital nomad community. You can meet fellow remote workers and form life-long connections. Not only will they provide a sense of community but make your trip worthwhile. You can even travel and explore the city together. Digital nomads can be found via Facebook groups, coworking spaces, cafes, social gatherings, regular events, etc.
Is Timisoara safe?
When it comes to the subject of Timisoara’s safety, we are confident to vouch for it. Timisoara is a very safe place to visit for digital nomads and it promises a secure time.
While petty crimes are not unheard of, the crime rate is very low and they are even less likely to occur against tourists. Visitors can travel with ease of mind and enjoy a peaceful time here. Furthermore, the locals are very friendly, hospitable, and helpful. You’ll be able to settle easily and call this city your home.
As safe as it is, digital nomads in a foreign country are recommended to follow some general safety tips.
- Look out for tourist scams
- Trust reputable companies
- Stay away from isolated areas
- Stay on your guard
- Stay away from shady neighbourhoods
- Don’t carry large amounts of cash on hand
- Don’t carry flashy items
Visa Requirements in Timisoara
Since Romania is a European country and is a part of the European Union, EU citizens can enter the country without a visa and stay. However, the EU/Schengen zone agreement terms don’t apply here, and only the former can enjoy Visa-free entry.
Much like most countries, Romania has specific and distinct visa requirements for different countries and nationalities. Hence, it’s best to contact an embassy or consulate in your home country and learn properly. They can guide you about the general visa options, application process, and application forms.
Either way, some of the basic visa requirements include the following.
- Valid passport
- 2 recent pictures
- filled out the application form
- proof of minimum income
Conclusion
Conclusively, we can say that Timisoara, Romania deserves all the hype it is getting. This ideal location is packed with opportunities and amenities. Digital nomads and remote workers can expect to have a fulfilling time here, thanks to all the facilities. Everything from its natural beauty and internet connection to architectural history is splendid. You can settle here for an extended period of time and experience the ultimate digital nomad lifestyle.
We hope this article helped you get a complete insight into what it’s like living in Timisoara. If you have any further questions or doubts, feel free to contact us and we’d be happy to help.
Did You Like This Timisoara Guide For Digital Nomads?
Sign up for our newsletter to receive more exclusive tips and insights straight to your inbox!