The Black Sea: the back story

About The Black Sea: the back story

By the ULTIMATE Bucharest Editorial Team

Editor-in-Chief: Jai Michael

Romania’s Black Sea coast runs from the Danube Delta to the Bulgarian border. Its capital, Constanța, began as the Greek colony of Tomis, where the Roman poet Ovid lived in exile, and its waterfront is crowned by a restored Art Nouveau casino.

Tomis and Ovid

Greek colonists founded Tomis in the 6th century BC. The Roman poet Ovid was exiled here by Emperor Augustus and died here, and his statue stands in Ovid Square. A Roman mosaic and the History Museum recall the ancient city.

The Casino

The Art Nouveau Casino, built in 1910 on the cliff above the sea, became a symbol of Constanța. After years of decay it was restored and reopened to visitors in May 2025.

The Roman poet Ovid spent his last years in exile at Tomis, today’s Constanța.

Mamaia

North of the city, Mamaia is a long sandy beach lined with hotels, clubs and beach bars, the busiest resort on the coast in summer.

Vama Veche

Near the Bulgarian border, Vama Veche is a laid-back village famous for its free-spirited beach life and music.

Our advice: the coast is about two and a half to three hours from Bucharest by motorway. Visit Constanța’s old town and the Casino, then choose Mamaia for nightlife or Vama Veche for a bohemian beach. July and August are crowded.

Opening hours, prices and seasonal openings change, so please check with The Black Sea: the back story before you go.