Need to Know
Everything you need to plan your trip to DBE. Whether you're travelling from across the country or flying in from abroad, we've put together the essential details on getting here, where to stay, and how to find us inside the fortress.
Getting Here
By Plane
The closest airports are Cluj-Napoca International (CLJ, ~100 km), Sibiu International (SBZ, ~80 km), and Târgu Mureș International (TGM, ~110 km). All three have direct connections to major European hubs. From any airport take a train, bus or taxi to Alba Iulia (check timetables and fares before considering this option).
By Train
Alba Iulia has a train station (Gara Alba Iulia) with direct or one-transfer connection from Bucharest (~7h-8h), Cluj-Napoca (~2.5h), and Timișoara (~4h). There are also international trains from Vienna, Prague and Budapest. Check schedules and buy tickets at Train itineraries - CFR trains timetable. The station is about 3 km from the fortress - a short taxi or rideshare ride.
By Car
From Bucharest: A1 motorway toward Pitesti and Sibiu, then DN1/E81 north to Alba Iulia (~360 km, ~4.5-5h). From Cluj-Napoca: E81 south (~100 km, ~1.5h). From Timisoara: A1 east to Sebeş, then DN1 north (~220 km, ~2.5h). Take into account the fact that not all accommodations offer parking spaces.
By Bus
International coaches run to Alba Iulia from several European cities via FlixBus. Domestic services connect major Romanian cities daily - FlixBus, plus other coach travel options from Cluj (Normandia) and Bucharest (Fany). The main bus terminal (Autogara Alba Iulia) is within walking distance of the city center.
Where to Stay
Hotel Cetate
Right outside the fortress walls - one of the closest locations.
Hotel Transilvania
City center, 10-15 min walk to the fortress.
Guesthouses (Pensiuni)
Alba Iulia has many affordable guesthouses in the old town area. Search on Booking.com with 'Alba Iulia' — filter by distance to Cetatea Alba Carolina.
Camping
The camping area offers space for around 60 tents, showers and drinking water, green area and hammocks. The space is kids and pet friendly. To book, send an e-mail before July 25 to darkbombasticevening@gmail.com, mentioning the number of persons per tent, their names and festival pass numbers. The booking will be confirmed within 48 hours. The price is 150 lei (~29 euro) for the entire festival period and will be paid at the entrance.
Find Us
Walking
Alba Iulia is not a big city and the citadel which hosts the festival is located right at the heart of it. Almost every point in the city is within walking distance from the citadel and from RYMA.
By bus
Check options and timetables on the public transport company’s website: STP Alba Iulia.
By car
The city has a paid-parking system – the Citadel is part of the red zone, where tariffs are around 1 euro per hour or 10 euro per day (payment via TPark app). Bear in mind that there are not many parking spaces available close to RYMA’s 7th gate. A better option would be to use Uber or Bolt services, which operate in the city.
Ryma Spaces, Alba Iulia Fortress, Romania — Ravelinul Sf. Elisabeta, Strada Gemina 13, 510001 Alba Iulia
Got Questions?
What is the festival's refund policy?
All ticket sales are final. We do not offer refunds for any reason, including event cancellation or personal circumstances.
Can I buy tickets at the doors?
Yes, you can buy tickets at the doors. Prices may increase by 10% starting August 1st.
Who is entitled to free entrance?
Children under 18 (accompanied by an adult), people with disabilities and survivors of the Colectiv tragedy.
What items are prohibited at the festival?
Prohibited items include sharp objects, weapons, illegal substances and any objects that could harm or endanger other participants.
Are there accommodations for people with disabilities?
Yes, we strive to make our festival accessible to all attendees. Please contact us in advance to discuss any specific needs or accommodations.
Can I leave and re-enter the festival?
Yes, re-entry is allowed. You will receive a wristband at the entrance. Keep it on for the entire duration of the festival.
Is there food and drinks available on-site?
Yes, there will be food and drink vendors inside the festival grounds. You can pay by card or cash.
What is the photo and video policy?
Personal phones and compact cameras are welcome. Professional cameras with detachable lenses, video equipment, and recording devices require prior press accreditation. Please respect the artists and refrain from filming entire sets.
Are children allowed at the festival?
Yes, children are welcome at DBE. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian at all times.
Are pets allowed?
Yes, pets are welcome.
How can I get in touch with the organizers?
You can write to us at darkbombasticevening@gmail.com.
