Each summer, the city of Cluj-Napoca, Romania, transforms into a vibrant musical wonderland as it hosts UNTOLD Festival, one of Europe’s largest and most spectacular electronic music festivals. Since its debut in 2015, UNTOLD has gained massive international recognition, drawing in hundreds of thousands of festival-goers from around the world.
Known for its electrifying atmosphere, top-tier lineup, and mind-blowing stage designs, UNTOLD offers a unique experience that blends EDM, house, techno, hip-hop, and more. The festival’s Main Stage has welcomed some of the biggest names in the industry, while its other themed stages create an immersive world of music and high-energy performances.
Ready to be part of the festival’s magic?
We’ll tell you everything you need to know for a smooth and unforgettable experience, so tag along as I’ll (hopefully) answer all your burning questions you have as an UNTOLD first-timer.
Table of contents
- When & Where is the UNTOLD Festival?
- UNTOLD Festival Tickets & Prices
- How to Get to Cluj-Napoca for UNTOLD
- Where to Stay in Cluj-Napoca During UNTOLD
- UNTOLD Camping Options
- What to Expect at UNTOLD Festival
- Smart Festival Tips: A Safer Experience for First-Timers
- Things to Do in Cluj-Napoca Before or After UNTOLD
- Final Thoughts: Is UNTOLD Worth It?
When & Where is the UNTOLD Festival?
Every August, UNTOLD Festival transforms Cluj-Napoca into a vibrant hub of music and energy. The 2025 edition, celebrating its 10th anniversary from August 7–10, promises an unforgettable experience.
Centered at Cluj Arena, the festival extends across the city, with stages in Central Park, the Someș Riverbank, and BT Arena, creating a multi-sensory world of music. But UNTOLD is more than a festival, it’s a citywide phenomenon.
Cluj-Napoca, the heart of Transylvania, pulses with life during UNTOLD. Streets fill with music, pop-up parties, and festival-goers from around the world. Bars, clubs, and restaurants stay open late, hosting afterparties, while the city’s historic charm blends seamlessly with the festival’s electric atmosphere.
From epic performances to late-night adventures, UNTOLD delivers four days of non-stop celebration, making it one of Europe’s most immersive festival experiences.
Did you know?Since 2024, UNTOLD has gone global with UNTOLD Dubai, bringing its iconic festival experience to the UAE. After a successful debut in February, it returns in November 2025 with another stellar lineup.
UNTOLD Festival Tickets & Prices
UNTOLD Festival offers various ticket options for different festival-goers. The General Access Pass comes in two types: one for under 25s, which includes a €20 festival credit, and a regular version.
For a more exclusive experience, VIP Tickets & Experiences include three categories: VIP Main Stage, Galaxy Backstage, and VIP Ultimate Experience, all with premium perks and access. Both General Access and VIP tickets are valid for all four days.
Shorter Day Passes are available closer to the event but sell out quickly, especially for major performances. Children under 7 enter for free, while those under 14 need parental consent and must be accompanied by an adult. Minors under 18 must provide ID and a signed parental agreement.
Tickets are only available through the official UNTOLD Festival website and authorized partners.
Early Bird tickets are the cheapest and sell out quickly, so register for pre-sale access to get the best deal. Follow UNTOLD on social media (you can find the festival on Facebook, Instagram, and X) for flash sales and exclusive offers, and avoid third-party resellers to guarantee secure entry.
Local tip:After purchasing your ticket, make sure to assign your ticket to your account and enter the personal data requested within the first 30 days. Otherwise, you will have to pay an extra fee when registering for your wristband.
How to Get to Cluj-Napoca for UNTOLD
Getting to Cluj-Napoca for UNTOLD is easy, whether you're coming from Romania or abroad.
The fastest option is flying into Cluj Avram Iancu International Airport, just 8 km from the city. It has direct flights from major European cities like London, Paris, Madrid, and Frankfurt, plus domestic routes from Bucharest, Iași, and Timișoara. If you're traveling from outside Europe, options include Abu Dhabi and Tel Aviv, or you can connect via Bucharest, Vienna, or Munich.
Trains and long-distance buses connect Cluj to Bucharest, Brașov, Timișoara, Oradea, and even Budapest or Vienna (via FlixBus and MementoBus). Driving is another option, about 7 hours from Bucharest, 4 from Timișoara, and 6 from Budapest. Parking near the festival is limited, so book ahead or use park-and-ride services.
Once in Cluj, reaching Cluj Arena is simple. Take a taxi, rideshare (Bolt/Uber), or bus (lines 5 or 8) from the airport. Public transport, walking, and e-scooters are also great ways to get around this compact, pedestrian-friendly city.
Where to Stay in Cluj-Napoca During UNTOLD
Trust me: Book your UNTOLD Festival accommodation early for more options, as Cluj-Napoca fills up fast with festival-goers. You can either book independently or reserve through the official UNTOLD website, which offers special packages for attendees.
If booking on your own, you'll find a range of options, from budget hostels to 3-star and 5-star hotels, along with private Airbnb rentals.
For a hassle-free experience, UNTOLD provides official accommodation packages that cater to all budgets, from shared dorms to 3- to 5-star hotels, ensuring a convenient stay for every attendee.
UNTOLD Camping Options
Unlike some major festivals, there's no dedicated UNTOLD camping area, since the event takes place in an urban setting. Still, if you’re a fan of camping, you can find a few options for booking on your own around the outskirts of the city, such as Colina Camping.
The best location for accommodation depends on how close you want to be to the festival:
- City center & Piața Unirii – The most popular choice, offering easy access to both the festival and Cluj’s vibrant restaurants, bars, and attractions.
- Near Cluj Arena (Grigorescu & Mărăști) – Staying in these neighborhoods means you’ll be within walking distance of UNTOLD, but availability is limited, so book early.
- Zorilor & Mănăștur neighborhoods – Slightly farther away but well-connected by public transport, making it a good option for better prices and more availability.
What to Expect at UNTOLD Festival
UNTOLD Festival is much more than just a music event—it’s an immersive, high-energy experience with world-class stages, performances, and visual effects.
The festival takes over Cluj Arena and its surrounding areas, with multiple stages offering a mix of music genres:
- Main Stage – The heart of the festival, where headliners perform massive sets with spectacular lights, pyrotechnics, and special effects.
- Galaxy Stage – The go-to spot for techno and underground electronic music, featuring top-tier DJs.
- Alchemy Stage – Dedicated to bass-heavy genres like hip-hop, drum & bass, and dubstep.
- Other Stages & Themed Areas – UNTOLD also features smaller stages with house, trance, and experimental music, along with interactive zones for a fully immersive experience.
UNTOLD Festival is renowned for its epic stage productions, blending cutting-edge visuals, fireworks, laser shows, and fantasy-inspired themes to create a truly magical atmosphere. Each year, the festival enhances its spectacular visual experience, making it one of Europe's most visually stunning events.
Acts on the main stage have 30-minute breaks between performances, so be prepared to wait if you want to keep your spot.
Like other major festivals, UNTOLD uses similar technologies and operates as a cashless event. Make sure to top up your festival bracelet before entering, as cash points inside have long queues. You can also add funds via the UNTOLD website or mobile app for quick and easy access.
The festival’s artist schedule is released only 2-4 weeks before the event, so be flexible and stay updated. Expect huge crowds, especially on Friday and Saturday nights, with over 70,000 attendees and up to 115,000 during major performances like Imagine Dragons in 2023, making movement difficult.
Smart Festival Tips: A Safer Experience for First-Timers
If you're attending UNTOLD Festival for the first time, a little prep ensures a smooth experience. Wear comfortable sneakers, bring a light jacket for chilly nights, and pack essentials like your wristband, ID, sunscreen, and a power bank. Leave prohibited items behind; lasers, umbrellas, drones, flammables, food, drinks, and tripods aren’t allowed.
Food courts are packed and pricey, so join locals in grabbing lángos, a quick and budget-friendly option. For a proper meal, eat in Cluj’s Old Town before heading to the festival for better quality and service.
Cluj-Napoca Food Tour: Food Markets, Regional Dishes and Coffee Culture
Start from: Cluj-Napoca
Festival security is tight, with agents and video surveillance to ensure safety. Stay in control of your belongings by using a zippered pouch. On peak nights, phone networks may be overloaded, so set a meeting point with friends to avoid getting lost.
Things to Do in Cluj-Napoca Before or After UNTOLD
While the UNTOLD Festival will likely take up much of your time in Cluj-Napoca, the city and its surroundings have plenty to offer in terms of culture, nature, and history. Whether you have a few hours to spare or an extra day to explore, here are some top recommendations for things to do in and around Cluj.
Start by wandering through Cluj-Napoca’s Old Town, where you can enjoy the charming mix of medieval and modern architecture. Be sure to visit St. Michael’s Church, Unirii Square, and Matthias Corvinus’ statue. For stunning panoramic views of the city, make your way up to Cetățuia Hill, a popular spot for both locals and tourists to enjoy the landscape. If you're looking to unwind before or after the festival, take a stroll through Central Park, a peaceful spot in the city perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
Cluj Top Attractions: Turda Salt Mine, Alba Iulia Citadel & Rimetea Village
Start from: Cluj-Napoca (pick-up)
Cluj is ideally located for some unforgettable day trips to nearby attractions. One of the most popular destinations is the Turda Salt Mine, an incredible underground wonder. Romanian Friend offers tours to the salt mine, as well as other nearby destinations such as Corvin Castle, a stunning Gothic fortress just a short trip from Cluj.
For a more adventurous nature experience, Hoia-Baciu Forest — famous for its eerie and mystical reputation—is just a short drive from the city. If you're up for it, we can organize a tour for you in Hoia-Baciu Forest, where you can learn about its legends and unique flora.
For history lovers, visit Alba Iulia Citadel, a beautifully restored fortress with a rich history, or Sighisoara Citadel, one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe.
Tour of Transylvania's Countryside: Sighisoara Citadel & Fortified Villages
Start from: Cluj-Napoca
If you're into hiking, Apuseni Natural Park offers stunning landscapes and trails for all levels. From easier walks to more challenging hikes, you'll experience the untouched beauty of the Carpathian Mountains.
1 or 2-day Hiking Tour from Cluj: Wild Trails in Apuseni Natural Park
Start from: Cluj-Napoca
For a more in-depth guide to attractions in and around Cluj, check out this guide to things to do in Cluj.
Final Thoughts: Is UNTOLD Worth It?
If you love electronic music, epic productions, and an immersive festival vibe, UNTOLD is a must.
More than just a festival, it's intended as a four-day escape into a fantasy world of music, lights, and high-energy performances. With international headliners, jaw-dropping stages, and an electrifying crowd, it rivals the world’s biggest events.
From EDM and house to techno and hip-hop, UNTOLD's browser-worthy lineup blends mainstream and underground artists. Plus, it's set in Cluj-Napoca, a city that transforms into a festival paradise each summer.
If you're unsure about going, just do it. You won’t regret it. Hope to see you there, dancing like there's no tomorrow! :)
