Ultimate Craiova Soccer Travel Guide

This ultimate Craiova soccer travel guide blends expert insights and insider tips to help you plan the perfect football trip. At Soccer Trippers, we’ve visited stadiums across Eastern Europe, and Craiova stands out for its fiery derbies, passionate supporters, and modern football infrastructure.

Why Craiova is a Top Destination for Football Fans

Craiova is home to Universitatea Craiova, one of Romania’s most historic and successful clubs. Nicknamed “Știința,” the team has a loyal fan base and a strong tradition of developing homegrown talent. Matches against rivals like Dinamo Bucharest or FCSB bring unforgettable atmospheres, with choreographies and chants echoing across the city.

Read our full Universitatea Craiova Club Guide

Must-Visit Football Stadiums in Craiova

• Ion Oblemenco Stadium Guide – A modern, 30,000-seat stadium opened in 2017. It is one of the most impressive venues in Romania and the home of Universitatea Craiova.

Insider Tip: Arrive early on derby days to witness the full spectacle of the ultras’ pre-match displays.

Where to Stay in Craiova as a Football Fan

• Hotels near Ion Oblemenco Stadium – Stay close to matchday action.
• Luxury Hotels in Craiova – Perfect for comfort and city-center convenience.
• Budget Hotels in Craiova – Affordable options near the train station or university district.
• Best Neighborhoods in Craiova for Football Fans – The city center offers easy access to nightlife, restaurants, and the stadium.

Pro Tip: Craiova’s city center is walkable, so even budget stays keep you close to the stadium.

Best Sports Bars & Places to Watch the Game

• Club Q Pub – A lively bar popular with football fans for live screenings.
• Curtea Berarilor Craiova – A beer hall atmosphere perfect for pre- or post-match drinks.
• Local Cafés in the City Center – Many show both domestic and European football.

See our full Craiova Sports Bars Guide

How to Get Around Craiova

Craiova has a compact city center with buses and trams connecting key districts. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Bolt are also affordable and convenient for reaching Ion Oblemenco Stadium.

Read our Craiova Public Transport Guide

Insider Tip: Walking from the city center to the stadium takes only 15–20 minutes, making it the best option on matchdays.

Other Must-Visit Landmarks for Football Fans

• Universitatea Craiova Club Shop – Grab scarves, shirts, and memorabilia.
• Nicolae Romanescu Park – A scenic pre-match stroll in one of Romania’s largest urban parks.
• Local Restaurants – Sample Oltenian cuisine in football-friendly venues.

Check our Craiova Football Landmarks Guide | Craiova Football Restaurants Guide

Final Whistle in Craiova

Craiova is a city where football and culture go hand in hand. From the modern Ion Oblemenco Stadium to the passion of Universitatea fans, it’s a destination that every football traveler should experience. Combined with the city’s charm and hospitality, a trip to Craiova offers both unforgettable matches and cultural highlights.

What’s your favorite Romanian football city? Share your story and explore our other guides, including the Bucharest Soccer Travel Guide and the Cluj-Napoca Soccer Travel Guide, to plan your next Romanian football adventure.