Iaşi's Botanical Gardens are Romania’s first (1856) and largest (100 hectares). They sprawl across Parcul Exposiţiei's western side, and offer 21km of shady lanes, 800 rose varieties and orchid gardens, plus greenhouses with tropical flowers and carnivorous plants. Kids will enjoy the lawns and small lake. The gardens are popular for strolling and picnicking. They also host Vasile Lupu’s Church of the Living (1638). The gardens are 3km northwest of the centre, so take a taxi (4 lei) or walk (20 minutes) up on B-dul Barol I – the gardens become visible about 500m past Copou Park, on the left.
