Parks, Student Vibes, and Shopping: The Other Side of Iași

Iași is more than just history and churches. Thanks to Alexandru Ioan Cuza, who founded Romania’s first university here in 1860, the city bursts with youthful energy and offers plenty of inviting green spaces.

Best Places for Walks and Relaxation:

• Anastasie Fătu Botanical Garden (Grădina Botanică): The oldest and largest botanical garden in Romania. Covering over 100 hectares, it features rose gardens, greenhouses with exotic plants, and picturesque ponds. It is an ideal spot for a peaceful picnic.
• Copou Park (Parcul Copou): A legendary park housing “Eminescu’s Linden Tree” – the tree under which the great Romanian poet Mihai Eminescu wrote his poetry. The park is filled with sculptures, shady avenues, and cozy benches.
• Palas Complex (Palas Iași): A unique urban development right behind the Palace of Culture. It features a modern shopping center, a landscaped park with fountains, an amphitheater, and restaurants overlooking the palace.

Traveler Tip: If you are looking for a panoramic view of the entire city, head to Repedea Hill (Dealul Repedea) or the Cetățuia Monastery (Mănăstirea Cetățuia), offering breathtaking views, especially at sunset.