Danube Delta | Romania

It was first mentioned in a document written by Diodorus of Sicily, in the 3rd century BC. Later the Latin poet Ovidius referred to it in his work Ex Ponto, attesting that the town was named after its founder, Dacian leader Carpyus Aegyssus. Currently, on the Monument Hill, several archaeological complexes from the late Roman epoch can be visited. Many archaeological materials, discovered during the research organized in the second half of the 20th century, can be found in the permanent exhibition of the Museum of History and Archaeology found nearby.

Located on the Monument Hill in the North-Eastern section of Tulcea, the fortress was built at the end of the 4th century B.C. Its name, of Celtic origin, derived from a legendary founder, Caspios Aegyssos. Reporting the events of the year 12 A.D., when the town was attacked by the Getae, Ovidius called it the attribute uetus urbs (old town). At the beginning of 2nd century, the town was included in the Danubian limes (boundary). Then, starting with the 3rd century, it became an important military headquarters. The 6th century finds it as an episcopal residence. Urban life knows an end in the first quarter of the 7th century and a revival in the 10th and 11th centuries.

If one would like to understand the genesis of the Danube Delta, this is the right place! The river splits into three main distributaries before reaching the Black Sea: the Chilia (youngest and most active), Sulina (the shortest and only arm navigable by large vessels), and Sfântu Gheorghe (the oldest arm). The delta's creation began during the Holocene epoch (around 6,000 to 10,000 years ago) when the rising level of the Black Sea blocked an ancient gulf at the mouth of the Danube. The modern Danube Delta began to form after 4000 BC in a bay of the Black Sea when the sea rose to its present level. A sandy barrier blocked the Danube bay where the river initially built its delta. Upon filling the bay with sediment, the delta advanced outside this barrier-blocked estuary after 3500 BC, building several successive lobes, the St. George I (3500–1600 BC), the Sulina (1600–0 BC), the St. George II (0 BC–present) and the Chilia or Kilia (1600 AD–present). Several other internal lobes were constructed in the lakes and lagoons bordering the Danube Delta to the north (Chilia I and II) and toward the south (Dunavatz). Much of the alluvium in the delta and major expansion of its surface area in the form of lobes resulted from soil erosion associated with human clearing of forests in the Danube basin during the 1st and 2nd millenniums.

The center comprises a permanent exhibition which mainly shows elements specific to the actual natural patrimony of the Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve, a public aquarium and various temporary exhibitions. A scenery, which is an exact reproduction of the specific habitats for the Danube Delta and Razim-Sinoe Lagoon Complex, as well as for other national protected areas from Dobrudja Plateau like Măcin Mountains National Park, the permanent exhibition allows the discovery of the two geographic units high biodiversity. The 46 species of plants, 3 species of reptiles, 44 species of birds and 12 species of mammals are displayed in various hypostases and ecological relationships. Here you also have the opportunity to see the birds declared nature monuments, the species of rare animals protected at the national and European levels, the species extinct from the delta and Dobrudja, the species new for the Delta’s fauna but also aspects of their lives through the documentaries which can be seen during your visit.

The two buildings are situated on one of the 7 hills of Tulcea City, in the archaeological park where the ancient fortess Aegyssus artefacts were discovered. Once here, after visiting the museum, you must also climb up to the Independence Monument to enjoy the most beautiful vantage point. Basically, the view of the city and its surroundings is 360 degrees.

In the 2nd cen. AD, Romans conquered Tulcea and rebuilt several town areas. Tulcea was successively under Byzantine (5th - 7th cen.), Genoese (10th - 13th cen.) and Ottoman rule before finally being reunited with Romania, in 1878. The permanent concern of the Museum of History and Archaeology was the constitution of a rich and valuable archaeological patrimony - evidences of 11 centuries of continuous habitation, tracing the region's evolution from prehistoric settlements to ancient Greek, Roman and medieval empires, are preserved in the museum. This objective led to the initiation of a research program which developed in a remarkable way on the entire territory of the Northern Dobrudja – one of the most important archaeological zones in Romania. The collections are relevant for the study and knowledge of the first sedentary communities in Europe, the great centers of ancient and medieval civilization and, last but not least, the inclusion of the northern Dobrogean territory in the complicated political and economic gear specific to the modern and contemporary world.

The patrimony of the museum reflects, through the diversity of its collections, a unique cultural model generated by the ethnic cohabitation between Romanians and other populations. The approximately 8000 pieces make up an invaluable ethnographic fund which can be translated in the folk art and folk clothing collections, ethnography and photo-documents.

The premises of the Museum of Ethnography and Folk Art (former headquarters of the National Bank of Romania – Tulcea Branch) is one of the emblematic public buildings of Tulcea, and together with other buildings are valuable samples of the national shapes architecture. The construction is based on a project developed in 1924 and was raised in the interwar period (1924 – 1927), at the end of the national trend in Romanian architecture.

Considered a luxury dwelling, Avramide House stood out through the ground floor rooms richly decorated with painted stucco, painted ceilings and fitted with double leaf doors, the two main facades, one with a monumental staircase of marble mosaic. After 1944 Avramide (or Avramidis) House became the headquarters of the Greek Democratic Committee. On 14 November 1949, the birth document of Danube Delta Museum was signed and the museum opening took place on 1 May 1950. The museum occupied two rooms in the current building, having 872 heritage objects and complementary materials.

Part of The Northern Dobrodja Cultural Heritage Museum-Complex belonging to The ,,Gavrilă Simion,, Eco-Museum Research Institute Tulcea (ICEM Tulcea), The House of Collections – Avramide House was built in the late 19th century by Alexe Avramide, a successful local entrepreneur, owner of mills, workshops, commercial spaces, a sawmill and some large agricultural land. Recently rehabilitated under a project framework and included in regional tourism circuits, Avramide House offers a modern vision to show elements of Tulcea Town modern history, the Avramide family story and emphasizes the value of spectacular heritage artefacts from ICEM collections (oriental art, decorative art, rare book and manuscripts).

Located just 3 km from the town , it offers a much quieter atmosphere compared to the rest of the Romanian resorts. It is a completely undeveloped beach, offering a natural setting, perfect for those seeking relaxation and untouched landscapes.

The shoreline is incredibly long and wide. While the central area is organized with sunbeds, umbrellas, and beach bars, you can easily take a long walk to completely isolated, "wild" sections where you might spot free-roaming horses or cows. The sand is famously fine and powdery. Because Sulina sits where the Danube meets the Black Sea, the water tends to be less salty and occasionally a bit murky, but it remains very shallow, making it great for wading and swimming.

Sulina is the departure point for guided routes in the Danube Delta, using small rapid boats or traditional row boats. Because it lacks direct road connections, Sulina has retained its old-world charm. In the 19th century, it was the headquarters of the European Commission of the Danube and a bustling, duty-free port housing 19 different nationalities. One of the most fascinating landmarks is the old cemetery, where sailors, ship captains, war heroes, pirates, and a princess from various religious and ethnic backgrounds all rest in peace.

As a gateway to the UNESCO-protected Danube Delta, it’s the ideal starting point for boat tours, kayaking, and bird-watching through pristine canals and reedbeds.

Types of tourism activities in Sulina

• Morning route to The Letea Forest: Safari + Letea Forest, Sand Dunes – Secular Oaks, Wild Horses, Cardon Canal, Barbosu Canal with Water Lilies, Narrow Canal, Exit to Musura Bay … | Duration: 5 hours
• Excursion by boat and horse-drawn carriage to the Letea forest in the Danube Delta with traditional fish lunch in Letea Village - Duration: 6-7 hours
• Evening Route: : Danube Flowing into the Sea, Old Lighthouse – New Lighthouse, Visiting the island and the Bird Colonies, Pelican Colonies, Cormorant-Egret-Stark Colonies, Musura Bay Crossing, Sunset … | Duration: 2 hours
• Danube Delta Mini Tour: Cardon Canal, Barbosu Canal with Water Lilies, Narrow Canal with Water Lilies, Stopover/Visit Cardon Village, Birds of Musura Bay, Exit to Musura Bay | Duration: 2 hours
• Delta Full Tour: Danube River, Black Sea, K Island with Birds, Colonies of Pelicans, Cormorants, Musura Bay Crossing – 17 km, Water Lily Canal, Cardon Village – Narrow Canal, Cardon Canal … | Duration: 3 hours
• Rosu-Rosulet Lakes Route: Mila Canal 2, Busurca Canal with Water Lilies, Rosulet Lake, Rosu Lake, Crossing the Lakes, Birds from the Lakes, Balanova Bay – Coastal Canal, Visit Cherhana Rosu … | Duration: 2 hours
• Sfantu Gheorghe Route: Bratul Sulina, Integral Crossing of the Lakes, Balanova Bay, Belt Canal – Coastline 20 km, Bratul Sfantu-Gheorghe, Popas / Visiting the village of Sfantu-Gheorghe … | Duration: 6 hours
• Excursion of one’s choice: bird watching / kayaking / boat trip / romantic boat trip at Sunset, duration: 3 – 4 hours
• Discover the city of Sulina and the Black Sea beach on foot or with the bike.

Explore the Danube Delta on a guided kayak tour from Sulina. Paddle the canals, watch the birds, and enjoy a break at the Cardon Channel.

• An invitation to paddle through the Danube Delta and see Musura Bay;

• observe a variety of birds as you sail on the water;

• choose between a 3-4 hour or 5-7 hour tour - depending on your fitness level;

• enjoy a break at the Cardon Channel and decide whether to continue or turn back;

• experience the unique perspective of Sulina from the water.

The lighthouses of Sulina are vital to the region's history, as the Sulina branch of the Danube is the only route granting maritime access to the river ports. Today, these monuments serve as major cultural landmarks, showcasing the town's heritage at the edge of the Black Sea. Today, the Old Lighthouse has been converted into a museum dedicated to Sulina’s maritime legacy and the history of the European Commission of the Danube. Visitors can explore exhibitions, view the office of the famed Romanian writer Jean Bart (Eugeniu P. Botez), and climb to the top for panoramic views of the town and river

It was administrated in the period 1897-1939 by the European Commission of the Danube, became a museum in 2003. The exhibition shows, through documents and photos, the history of Sulina in the period of the European Commission of the Danube administration and the life of two outstanding personalities connected with this town: the conductor George Georgescu and the writer Jean Bart. The U-shaped building is organized around an inner courtyard with a general east-west orientation. At the eastern end is the cylindrical lighthouse tower. At the base of the tower is the main rectangular building, which extends the full width of the courtyard and consists of two rooms and a vestibule. To the west, the only entrance to the lighthouse courtyard is pierced by two square pavilions, and between the pavilions and the rectangular body, the north and south sides of the enclosure are delimited by two symmetrical bodies opening onto the central space of the courtyard. 1856-1870: Lighthouse of the European Danube Commission As a result of the direct involvement of the EDC, Sulina was to undergo a period of remarkable development in the following decades. When the EDC was founded, there were only three lighthouses at the mouths of the Danube: the one at Sulina, the one on the Serpilor Island and a third on the Black Sea coast, south of the St. George's Arm. All three had returned to the administration of the Ottoman government after it had regained the territories lost in 1829. On the wall to the right of the entrance to the courtyard of the Sulina lighthouse there is a commemorative panel in French, which mentions both the date of the establishment of the European Danube Commission and the year of the lighthouse's construction:

European Commission established by the Treaty of Paris of March 30, 1856 for the improvement of navigation at the mouth of the Danube built these breakwaters and this lighthouse completed in November 1870

The beach is located where the Danube River meets the Black Sea, it offers a peaceful escape from crowded resorts, featuring shallow waters, peaceful surroundings, and abundant birdlife. Tourism - especially during summer season - and fishing remain the main activities of the population. Sfantu Gheorghe is known for its traditional cooking including sturgeon fish soup called storceak.

A 30 minute walk will take you to one of the longest strips of beach on the Romanian Black Sea coast. The beach is quite wide, covered with extremely fine sand and the sea water is not too deep, tourists being able to swim forward at large without the water exceeding 2 meters. Yet, avoid bathing near Saint George Arm’s inflow (Bratul Sfantu Gheorghe) because of the very strong dangerous currents. The beach is part of the Danube Delta Reservation; it is a wild beach, with no upgrade whatsoever and without lifeguard point. Sfantu Gheorghe (Saint George) is known also for an independent film festival namely the ANONIMUL (Anonymous) - International Independent Film Festival which takes place in the village and goes off for a whole week during summertime.

Anonimul Festival is about people, its charm lies in the diversity and naturalness of the audience: young people, parents with teenagers, groups of friends, foreign tourists. No formal clothes or pretentious attitudes are required. Here, cinema culture is experienced in shorts and sandals, with an open mind and a keen curiosity.

Year after year, every August, the silence of the village of Sfântu Gheorghe is interrupted by applause, courageous cinematic stories and rare cultural encounters. ANONIMUL (Anonimul in Romanian) is, in itself, a paradox: an international independent film festival, with premiere screenings, recognized directors and relevant debates, organized in a Tulcea remote village, completely isolated from the urban chaos. It has no red carpet, but streets covered with fine sand. It does not boast of limousines, but of cows, sheep and authentic fishermen. It is a celebration of creative freedom, of cinema as an artistic and social act, held under the open sky, in the heat of summer.

The novelty and the attraction of the ANONIMUL Festival was the setting up of an open-air cinema, from scratch, to the image and sound standards of a cinema hall, right in the place where the audience stays (in the tent), spends their day in personal activities (meeting with friends at the food & beverage area) so that, all night long, they can stay connected with thousands of other people in front of a cinema screen, watching films and coming into direct contact, through question and answer sessions, with the filmmakers and professionals involved in their production (directors, actors, producers, etc.).

The fortress played a significant role in the defensive and economic system of the Roman Empire, being a frontier point and a centre of trade. It was an important centre of Christianity, with the ruins of early Christian churches. Alongside the archaeological site sits the ⁠Halmyris Monastery, built to honor the aforementioned martyrs. The artifacts unearthed from the excavations can be viewed at the Tulcea History and Archaeology Museum.

The site was originally occupied by Getic tribes and saw heavy influence from Greek traders before being developed into a Roman stone fort around the 2nd century AD during the reign of Emperor Trajan. Situated on the right bank of the Sfântu Gheorghe arm of the Danube (ancient Peuce), it served as an easternmost outpost of the Roman limes and a logistical supply base.

Vicus Classicorum: Inscriptions detail a "mariner's village" outside the fort's walls, a unique civilian settlement of sailors tied to the Roman fleet. The fort was continuously occupied and rebuilt through the Byzantine era, serving as a bishopric before being eventually abandoned in the 7th century due to shifting environmental and river changes.

Visiting the ⁠Enisala Fortress offers a rare chance to explore the only surviving medieval fortress in the Dobrogea region. Set high on a calcareous hill, it provides breathtaking panoramic views of the Razelm and Babadag lakes, a unique landscape deeply intertwined with ⁠Danube Delta history.

Today, Enisala is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors interested in history, archaeology and natural landscapes. The fortress has been partially restored to preserve its authenticity and provide a more faithful experience for tourists. In addition to exploring the ruins, visitors can participate in various cultural and historical events organized within the fortress.

Enisala, also known as Heracleea, is a medieval fortress located in Tulcea County, Romania, near the village of Enisala. It represents one of the best preserved and important fortifications in Dobrogea, having a special historical and cultural significance.

History and Context: Enisala Fortress was built in the 13th century, during a period of intense military and commercial activity in the region. Situated at the crossroads of important trade routes, the fortress played a crucial role in controlling maritime and land traffic between the Black Sea and central Europe. Initially, the fortification was built by the Byzantines and Genoese, and later reinforced and used by the Ottomans.

Architecture Enisala Fortress impresses by its robust and strategic architecture. The building is situated on a rocky hill, offering a panoramic view of the surrounding area, including lakes Razim and Babadag. The thick walls, watchtowers and bastions were designed to provide an effective defense against attacks. The remains of administrative and residential buildings can also be seen inside the fortress, reflecting the complex organization of the settlement.

An emotional experience – more than a museum, a life lesson. If you end up in the Danube Delta, a stop at the Ivan Patzaichin Memorial Center in Mila 23 is absolutely mandatory. It is, without a doubt, one of the best-designed and modern cultural spaces in rural Romania.

Mila 23’s makeup is diverse, but it is mostly inhabited by the Lipovans, descendants of Russians fleeing religious persecution in the 18th century. The fishing community is known for being the home of 4-time Olympic Gold medalist, Ivan Patzaichin. Getting to Mila 23 isn’t extremely easy due to the fact that it can only be reached by boat. However, regularly scheduled boats do go out here. The museum manages to perfectly combine Lipovan tradition with fascinating contemporary design. The observation tower offers a superb perspective, and the exhibits tell the story of champion Ivan Patzaichin in a visually spectacular way. The place exudes simplicity and common sense, exactly the values ​​that Ivan has always promoted. It is a living space that inspires you to appreciate nature and local traditions.

The forest is the oldest nature reserve in Romania and also the northernmost subtropical forest in Europe. Here, amid sand dunes left behind by the Black Sea and centuries-old oak trees with roots hundreds of years old, nature still whispers stories.

The Letea Forest - located 23 km northwest of the city of Sulina, it is a monument of nature, being the largest strict nature reserve in Europe. It has an area of 5247 ha and is located on the territory of the municipality of C.A. Rosetti. Letea is the northernmost subtropical forest in Europe. The forest is emblematic for the ancient oaks, the pine nursery, the free horses, the northern limit of the lianas and many hard-to-see birds. Over 3,500 species of very rare plants and animals are found here, which the Letea Forest preserves very well. Since 1930, half of the areas of the Letea Forest are strictly protected and protected areas, and 500 ha of the Hasmacul Mare area have been a Nature Reserve since 1938. Stop in Letea village - In the village, one still find traditional blue-white houses wrapped in reeds, guesthouses with Delta cuisine, streets of twisted sand; the walk in the forest usually takes place in horse-drawn carts, driven by locals.

What makes the Delta unique for birdwatching is the access. Ibis Tours' 4-star floating hotel takes you deep into the reserve overnight — so you're on the water at dawn and dusk when birds are most active, not commuting from a hotel in Tulcea. This insider access changes the experience entirely. The 4-star floating hotel has 10 double cabins with en-suite shower and toilet, a panoramic dining room, sun deck and lounge. Electricity and hot water are available 24 hours. The hotel moves slowly through the Delta channels giving a unique perspective on the landscape.

During this four-day birdwatching cruise tourists explore the Danube Delta — Europe's largest river delta and one of the world's most important wetlands. From the comfort of our 4-star floating hotel we navigate a maze of channels and lakes teeming with wildlife: vast pelican colonies, Pygmy Cormorants, herons and hundreds of other bird species. Our dedicated motorboat takes us deep into the delta's interior, reaching habitats no land-based tour can access. Days end moored in silence, surrounded only by birdsong.

Murighiol is the perfect place for those seeking tranquillity, nature and authentic experiences in an exceptional natural setting.

Murighiol - roots in the distant past, having been built on the site of the ancient Thracian port town of Halmyris - an ancient city-port located on the right bank of the Sfântu Gheorghe arm of the Danube, near the Black Sea. It evolved from an Iron Age Dacian settlement into a critical Roman naval base, later serving as an early Christian episcopal center before being abandoned in the 7th century. Nowadays, it obtained the status of tourist resort of local interest. The name originates from the Turkish words "mor" (purple) and "göl" (lake), referring to the violet reflections on the nearby lakes during sunrise and sunset. In ancient Roman times, the settlement was a thriving port named Halmyris.

What makes Murighiol special:

1. Access to the Danube Delta: Numerous boat trips depart from Murighiol to the canals and lakes of the Delta, offering the opportunity to explore spectacular scenery and observe remarkable biodiversity.

2. Unique flora and fauna: The area is an ideal destination for nature and birdwatching enthusiasts, with hundreds of bird species (including pelicans) and rare aquatic plants.

3. Activities for holidaymakers: Visitors can go boating, sport fishing, canal walking or experience traditional fish dishes.

4. Historical attractions: Nearby, the ruins of Halmyris offer a glimpse into ancient history as a Roman archaeological site of Roman interest.

5. Accommodation and local gastronomy: The village offers a variety of accommodation options, from rustic guesthouses to modern resorts, and the local cuisine impresses with traditional dishes such as fish stew or fish in brine.

A serene experience, diving into the cultural heritage of a traditional commune, situated on the shores of Lake Razim in Northern Dobruja. Famous for its striking architecture of white houses with vibrant blue shutters, the village is a major hub for the Lipovan (Old Believers) community, known for its rich culture and history and for the fishing heritage.

In Sarichioi lives the greatest community of Lipovans from Romania, and their traditions are respected there with holiness. The weddings here are very beautiful and there are some customs here known only by the locals. The wedding starts on Sunday morning, very early. At 5 o’clock in the morning a group of women come from the bride’s to be gate to the grooms house to wake him up for going after the bride. He will go, together with other people to “buy” his darling and the negotiation is done by the bride’s girlfriends. At the religious ceremony the bride wears her hair braided in one and eventually will put her hair up in a bun with a small hat embroiled with beads. The women are not allowed into the old rite church without wearing something on their head. From the church the newlywed and the procession go to the groom’s house to eat and then, all together go to the restaurant, singing and dancing all the way.

Taverna is highly appreciated for its incredibly fresh fish brought daily from Lake Razim. Clients praise the authentic, Mediterranean-style preparation on a salt bed, stunning lakeside views, and cozy atmosphere. However, expect a smaller menu focused purely on simple, local cooking rather than fancy dishes.

In their way to Murighiol, the gate for entering the Danube Delta channels, tourists can stop in Beștepe, 25 far away from Tulcea City, to taste the delicious food prepared in a traditional way.

During the tour, usually in the evenings, one can enjoy traditional fish dishes prepared by the locals.

Tourists and the lovers of nature can paddle through the delta’s labyrinth, navigating narrow channels, lakes and ponds. They will enjoy the reeds and water lilies and admire the diverse birdlife, including pelicans, egrets, and cormorants.

Mini camping „Kayak trips” in Mila 23

This is a small, peaceful resting spot for kayakers, with space for 10-12 tents.

Here you’ll find two toilets, a hot shower, and a dining area where you can prepare coffee or tea. Campers also have access to power outlets to charge their phones. There is a low-step pontoon for easy boarding and disembarking.

The mini-campsite is just a 5-minute walk from the Mila 23 Village center and the area with the shops.

The Lighthouse with Movies is a cultural festival of open-air cinema and community revitalization, organized in the historic courtyard of the Old Lighthouse in Sulina.

The courtyard of the Old Lighthouse has been transformed into an active cultural space for locals and tourists. Previous editions have included screenings of Romanian or European feature films and documentaries, offering the Sulina community the chance to participate in discussions with directors and actors.

Atelier Saraev's vision is to use art as a bridge between people, communities and ideas. Beyond creating jewellery and art pieces, their greatest joy comes from seeing how children and communities respond to the idea of transforming waste into art. These moments reaffirm their belief that creativity can be a powerful tool for environmental awareness and social change.

Their pieces are both wearable art and statements about sustainability. What started with paper jewellery has evolved into transforming discarded plastic bottles into colourful earrings, necklaces, and other accessories. The creative process begins by collecting and cleaning discarded materials before experimenting with how to cut, shape and combine them in unexpected ways. 

By transforming discarded materials into jewellery and by hosting creative workshops for children, they aim to show that art is not only about beauty but also about responsibility, inclusion and dialogue. Working with recycled materials provides a shared foundation — waste and pollution impact us all, regardless of our cultural, gender, or social backgrounds. In their workshops, children from different communities work together, learning to collaborate, respect the environment, and value their creativity. Through these activities, Saraev Atelier hope to encourage intercultural dialogue, empower girls and women to express themselves creatively, and foster a sense of social inclusion where everyone feels their contribution matters. Ultimately, their work is about transforming not just materials, but also mindsets — inviting people to see connections where they might not have seen them before.

An old traditional house situated on the street reaching to the wild beach of Sfantu Gheorghe was transformed into a cozy place where the tourist can get a coffee, a book, a handmade souvenir, a doll in a traditional folk costume, a postcard with old pictures.

Jurilovca is a picturesque village located in the heart of Dobrogea, at the edge of Lake Razim. With a rich history and a distinct culture, Jurilovca is one of the oldest fishing settlements in Romania, founded in the 18th century by the Lipovans from Russia. Since its foundation, its inhabitants have preserved the traditions and crafts brought from their homeland.

What does Jurilovca offer? An amalgam of feelings and experiences. Past, present and bold looks to the future.

A place where time flows smoothly and beautifully. A special place that offers tourists first and foremost EXPERIENCES. Maybe things I see or do for the first time.

The landscapes change with the light and the seasons, and the ruins of the old Orgame fortress remain silent witnesses to so many stories.

Because Jurilovca is mostly stories.

Situated on the shore of Razim Lake, it serves as the premier gateway to the Black Sea beach resort of Gura Portiței and offers a rich blend of Lipovan heritage, fresh fish gastronomy, and ancient history. Traditional dishes such as fish stew, plaice or fish soup are delicacies that no visitor should miss. It officially obtained the status of a tourist resort of local interest in 2025 and was designated Best New Entry and awarded in the "Tourist Resorts" category.

The quiet reed-lined canals, the specific wildlife, or even a foray on the water to the Chubby Heads can turn an ordinary day into a spectacular one. Tourists can also choose to go kayaking in the afternoon to enjoy a spectacular sunset from the water.

Gura Portiței is famous for its wild beaches and picturesque scenery. The place can be reached by crossing the Golovița Lake, embarking from the port of Jurilovca (the old port). The water trip takes between 25 and 35 minutes, depending on the weather.

The name “Gura Portiței” was originally used to designate the communication between the Golovița liman and the Black Sea, which was closed in the 1970s, turning Golovița into a closed lake.

Discovered in 1736, this authentic corner of paradise was originally a fishing village, and in 1998, the development works began to create the ideal place for the perfect stay.

At Gura Portiței is attested a fishing point for ,,carmace,, - a specific way of fishing the sturgeon in Black Sea. The season began after the old Epiphany, and the fishermen crossed the lake with horse-drawn sledges, sledges with fishing gear and, basically, the preparation of the sturgeon fishing season began in that way.

Bungalows have been built on the island for those who want to be closer to the delta atmosphere. Others can opt for beachfront accommodation (including cottages right on the sand) to be closer to the sea.

Ivan's Delta ("Delta lui Ivan") is a pioneering slow tourism initiative by the ⁠Ivan Patzaichin - Mila 23 Association. It spans a 55-kilometer route connecting the Tulcea waterfront to Mila 23, designed for visitors to experience the Danube Delta at a leisurely pace by paddling, walking, or cycling.

The idea for the Danube Delta’s first slow-tourism route was the brainchild of the great champion Ivan Patzaichin, who passed away in 2021. One of the themes that constantly concerned Ivan Patzaichin was the impact of mobility on the well-being of the people in the Delta. Transport solutions adapted to the specific conditions of the area, together with the adoption of a balanced vision of tourism, can lead to a healthier Delta with more prosperous people and tourists more interested in the variety of the place. Tulcea and the Delta need new  routes focused on cultural tourism, slow tourism, and ecotourism. The Ensemble aims to become an essential element in this endeavor, contributing to transforming the area into a must-see destination, encouraging exploration and strolling. Because, to quote Ivan, the most wonderful walks are those on water, keeping step with nature, the fish and the birds!

Organized by Crișan City Hall, this event celebrates one of the Delta's most iconic dishes: fisherman's borscht, a fish soup recipe passed down through generations in this fishing village on the Sulina branch of the Danube. It's an opportunity to taste the dish prepared the traditional way and experience the local culture of one of the Delta's oldest fishing communities.

Held annually in Crișan, organized by Crișan City Hall (Primăria Crișan), usually at the beginning of September.

Chilia Veche sits at the far end of the Delta, where the Chilia branch of the Danube borders Ukraine — a place, as the owner puts it, where time is measured differently: in fishermen leaving before sunrise, in the smell of fresh fish over water, in stories told at the table late into the night. La Lucica isn't a restaurant in the usual sense; it's a kitchen with a story, run by Lucica Lavro, where every dish comes from a family recipe and genuine care for this edge-of-the-Delta community

The menu changes with the season and the day's catch, offering two full menus — fish or meat — each with an appetizer, soup, main course and dessert, all cooked to order in advance. Specialties include storceak (a traditional fishermen's sour fish soup made with whey), ciorbă de burechițe (chicken dumpling soup reflecting Chilia Veche's mixed Romanian, Lipovan and Ukrainian heritage), slow-cooked fish in red sauce, festive stuffed pike, and Chilia Veche - style pork roast with garden vegetables. Reservations are required .

Before returning home, Dan Nitu spent years working on sea, gaining experience across cultures and coastlines around the world. For nearly three decades since, he has guided travelers through the Danube Delta's channels — not as a distant tour operator, but as someone sharing the landscape he grew up in. His cruises are built for travelers who want depth over checklist sightseeing: time to observe wildlife, listen to the sounds from the reed beds, and experience the Delta's rhythm firsthand.

Tours depart from Tulcea aboard safe, professionally operated catamarans (River Lord, River Gold), with itineraries ranging from single-day excursions to four-day journeys through Mila 23, Letea Forest, Sulina, and lesser-visited lakes such as Bogdaproste. Each itinerary can be tailored to the traveler — full-board accommodation, meals with local families, or private charters for small groups.

The house has a thatched roof, which keeps the interior cool during the hot summer days, and the predominant colours are white and Lipovan blue, giving it an air of authenticity and connection with the past and tradition of the area.

A courtyard decorated in a reinterpreted Lipovan style, with great attention to detail, is the perfect setting for rich and tasty meals. Everything is prepared with natural ingredients, sourced from small producers in the area. During the season, Ilinca's House organizes special events with renowned folk artists, superb atmosphere and dancing.