🔌 Essentials
Plugs, language and everyday practicalities
European two-pin plugs at 230 V, Romanian as the language with English widely understood by younger people, EU roaming, and shops open on Sundays.
Electricity
230 V, 50 Hz, with the standard continental two-pin sockets (types C and F). Visitors from the UK, Ireland, the US or Israel need an adapter; US devices that are not dual-voltage need a converter.
Language
The language is Romanian, a Romance language — Italian, Spanish and French speakers will recognise a surprising amount on signs and menus. English is widely understood by younger people, in hotels and restaurants, and the university keeps a large student population in the centre. The city's own nickname is Bănia, after the Ban of Oltenia who governed from here. A few words go a long way: *bună ziua* (good day), *mulțumesc* (thank you), *vă rog* (please), *nota, vă rog* (the bill, please).
Phones and internet
Romania is in the EU, so EU roaming applies to EU SIM cards. Mobile coverage and data speeds are good in the city; out in the Oltenia villages and in the Parâng above Rânca, expect gaps. Wi-Fi is standard in hotels and most cafés.
Time
Craiova is on Eastern European Time — one hour ahead of Central Europe, two ahead of the UK.
Shops and Sundays
Shops, supermarkets and malls open on Sundays, unlike much of German-speaking Europe. Smoking is banned indoors in restaurants and bars.
