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22+ Brilliant Things to Do in Brasov Transylvania, Romania (2024)!

By: Author Sophie Pearce

Posted on Last updated: January 1, 2024

Categories ROMANIA

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

Brasov is often referred to as the heart of Romania and this colourful city can be found in Transylvania deep within the Carpathian Mountains!

Originally founded by Teutonic Knights from Germany, you’ll find that it is packed full of historic buildings, cobbled streets, and oodles of defense towers.

Many tourists visiting Romania choose to visit Brasov due to the proximity to Bran Castle, the home of Count Dracula, but there are many amazing things to do in Brasov that will keep you occupied here!

From taking a cable car to Mount Tampa, hiking the Carpathians, visiting the narrowest street in Eastern Europe, the Black Church, and seeing the famous ‘Brasov Hollywood Sign’.

Here is a complete list of the very best things to do in Brasov in Transylvania, Romania!  

The history of Brasov 

The Carpathian Mountain city of Brasov has a long history before it was coined the Hollywood of Eastern Europe! 

It was a city founded by Teutonic Knights from Germany in the 13th-century who were protecting trade routes of Wallachia, Moldavia, and Transylvania from Tatar and Turkish invasion. 

At this time, they built a stone citadel on top of Mount Tampa and a series of fortification walls and guard towers around the city.

It then developed into a Saxon German occupation thriving on trade and crafts and there were popular weekly and annual markets held here.

Later, it became a hub of Romanian learning and culture with the construction of the First Romanian School in the Schei District. It then became part of the Romanian Kingdom in 1918.

After the Russians took over Romania, Brasov was called Orașul Stalin or Stalin City under Communist rule. The trees of Tampa Mountain were re-arranged to spell out ’S-T-A-L-I-N’ on the hillside. 

Of course, once it was returned to Romania and renamed Brasov once more the trees were chopped down and replaced with what we see today.

The Brasov Hollywood sign was installed on the mountainside in 2004. It is now the symbol of Brasov and today gives the city the nickname ‘Hollywood of Eastern Europe’.

It’s the tourist capital of Transylvania and many people visit here to make a trip to Bran Castle, the home of Count Dracula! 

Things to do in Brasov

1. see the famous brasov hollywood sign.

The first thing you’ll probably notice as you enter the city is the enormous Brasov Hollywood sign that sits above the city on Mount Tampa! 

This is what gives Brasov the nickname ‘Hollywood of Easter Europe’ and it was installed in 2004. Now, it’s a symbol of the city and you can see a matching one at the nearby Rasnov too. 

You can see this sign for miles around and it’s always a great photo opportunity. As well as admiring the sign from below, you may be surprised to know that you can actually visit the sign too! 

It feels surreal to be standing behind it and the views from the top are breathtaking. It’s easy to do either by hiking up Mount Tampa or taking the Tampa Cable Car to the top.

Click here to read my guide on how to visit the Brasov Hollywood Sign!  

2. Explore the colourful Council Square / Piața Sfatului

In the heart of Brasov is the Council Square or Piața Sfatului and you’ll notice a large peach building that towers over everything. This is the Brasov Council Hall built in the 15th-century.

It’s funny that this area is called a square as, from above, it’s actually more of a triangle shape! This traditionally was the area where medieval weekly markets were held in the city.

Today, it’s surrounded by colourful historic buildings and you’ll find fountains, restaurants, coffee houses, monuments, and all sorts of entertainment here in summer. 

3. Visit the Brasov History Museum / Trumpeter’s Tower

At the centre of Council Square is the most visited building in Brasov which is the Council Hall built in 1420. 

Although today it functions as the Brasov History Museum, not many know what terrifying things went on within its walls centuries ago!

Indeed, as well as this Council Hall holding city meetings, it was also a courthouse and prison. So, there were torture and execution chambers inside for unlucky criminals.

There were also countless witch trials in Brasov and you’d find that those women were held in the pillory in the central square before making their way in here to be questioned. 

You can take a tour of the museum and see the medieval torture chambers on your visit! 

A centuries-old tradition in Brasov is the trumpeters in the tower that mark significant events in the city. You can hear these trumpeters here every day at 6 pm or 12 pm on weekends. 

4. Learn about the Black Church / Biserica Neagră

One of the most popular things to do in Brasov is to visit the impressive Biserica Neagră or the Black Church which is located just off of Council Square. 

It was built during the Saxon German occupation and the construction started in 1386. But, it wouldn’t be completed until almost a century later in 1476. 

Although it was built in the Gothic style, it didn’t gain its dark appearance or namesake until 1689 when a huge fire spread throughout the city and damaged the building. 

It is still a working cathedral today but there is also a small museum inside that you can visit if you wanted to see inside. It’s an impressive space with a small art gallery. 

You’ll find a ticket counter in the shop opposite the entrance door. Tickets cost 16 Lei (RON) and its open for visitors every day of the week. It may open later on weekends to allow for services.

5. Visit the Catherine Gate / Poarta Ecaterinei

There are plenty of historic gates surrounding Brasov that used to allow access to those visiting in kind. But, one of the most significant and best-preserved is the Catherine Gate or Poarta Ecaterinei.

It was built by the Tailor’s Guild in 1559 and used to allow access for traders into the city. Many had to pay a toll at this gate to be allowed inside the city walls.

The name comes from St Catherine’s Monastery which used to be situated here in medieval times. 

Although the gate looks very whimsical like a Repunzelesque fairytale tower, the four-pointed turrets actually symbolise that this city has the “right of sword” or the right to carry out capital punishment! So, not very romantic at all really.

Today, it is a small museum and gardens that you can visit to learn more about the history of the tower! Or, you can easily just snap a photo of this quirky landmark from the outside.

6. Squeeze down Rope Street / Strada Sforii 

One of the most popular things to do in Brasov is to take a stroll down Rope Street (Strada Sforii) which is the narrowest street in Eastern Europe! 

It was originally built for firefighters in the 14th-century as a means for them to beat foot traffic in the city but now it’s a quirky tourist attraction.

At its narrowest, Rope Street is a tiny 111 centimetres and you can put your hands on the colourful walls on either side of you! 

It’s definitely worth visiting and snapping a photo here. There used to be a free Rope Street Museum but it is temporarily closed. 

Click here to read my complete guide for Rope Street – The Narrowest in Eastern Europe ! 

7. Visit the Black Tower / Turnul Negru

As part of the city’s medieval defenses, there are a series of guard towers that surround Brasov. One of those is the Black Tower or Turnul Negru which is located on Warthe Hill.

This was the first defense tower that was built in Brasov and dates back to the 15th-century.  Its purpose was to stop any enemy invaders from breaching the city walls. 

Although it is called the Black Tower, you’ll find that the colour is very much white! It got its name from when it was struck by lightning and it damaged the foundations. 

You can go inside to visit the small museum and take in the panoramic views as you climb to the very top. 

Beyond visiting the inside, I thought that the bottom of the Black Tower provided one of the best views in all of Brasov from the platform!

From this viewpoint, you can see the Black Church, Tampa Mountain, and some of the many colourful houses and buildings below. Make sure to snap a few photos. 

8. Take a walk along the Scheiu River & Canalul Timiș

In between the Black Tower and the White Tower you’ll find the scenic Scheiu River that leads out onto the Canalul Timiș.

Although a short walk, it’s very relaxing and you’ll be walking alongside some of the historic city walls as well. In summer, this is the perfect place for a cool respite as it’s shaded by the trees!

As you stroll alongside the water, you’ll see plenty of tunnels and the old gates like the Bastionul Graft that used to allow you passage into the medieval city. 

You can follow the river all the way along towards the Schei District to visit the First Romanian School Museum (more on that later). 

9. Hike up to the White Tower / Turnul Alb

If you carry on down the canal, you can turn left and then take the very steep (!) stairs up to the White Tower or Turnul Alb. 

This is located above the Bastionul Graft and is much larger than its neighbouring Black Tower. 

Again this was built in the 15th-century as a means of defense and so you’ll find lots of battlements and windows for weapons. 

Like the Black Tower, this is open as a museum for tourists to visit. You can climb up 5 levels to the very top! 

10. Take the Tampa Mountain Cable Car! 

One of the most popular things to do in Brasov is to take a trip on the cable car to the top of Mount Tampa.

It’s relatively cheap at 20 Lei (RON) for a return trip which is around £3.50/$4.50 USD. Also, it only takes 5 minutes to get to the top so it’s ideal if you didn’t fancy hiking and wanted to save time! 

The walk up to the cable car station from Brasov main square is quite steep through a park but once you’re up here the walks around Mount Tampa are relatively flat. 

If you only have time for one walk, I would opt to visit the Brasov Hollywood Sign. It’s around 500 metres from the cable car station and the views from the platform are breathtaking!

Click here to read my complete Tampa Mountain Cable Car guide! 

11. Hike up Mount Tampa & explore the Carpathian’s

If you’re feeling energised and the weather is fine, you could opt to hike up Mount Tampa on your visit to Brasov.

There are two ways to head up the hill. One is via the serpentine path that snakes through the trees or you can head up Gabony’s Steps. Both will take around an hour or so to reach the top! 

From here, you can also explore more of the Carpathian Mountains! You can head over to Postavarul Peak if you wanted a longer adventure. 

The Tampa to Postavarul Massif walk will take you all day (8 hours) and you can ascend up the 1799 metres to the summit.

In the winter, many people visit the popular Poiana Brasov ski resort which is located deep in the Carpathians. But, in summer, you can walk over here too!

Note: There are brown bears on Mount Tampa as well as Gray wolves, Eurasian lynx, Vipers etc. Although it’s very rare to see any of these creatures, always remain vigilant when hiking.

12. Visit the Schei District & The First School of Romania

Heading out of the main Council Square in Brasov, you can walk towards the Schei District which was a originally a Bulgarian and Romanian neighbourhood. 

This sat outside of the original city walls and residents back then were forbidden to buy property within them. 

Years ago, residents of Schei would have to pay a toll at the Catherine’s Gate to enter the city to buy and sell produce.

Here, you’ll find the First Romanian School that was constructed in 1495. Schei became a base for language and learning and the first Romanian languages classes took place in these walls. 

It remained in use until 1850. Today, you can visit the museum to learn more about the neighbourhood and the types of classes that were held here. Tickets are 20 Lei (RON)

Just nearby, you’ll find Biserica Sfântul Nicolae, or St Nicholas Orthodox Church, which was established in 1292. 

It’s free to enter and it has some of the most incredible paintings inside! The paintings are all originals and are carefully cleaned over the years to remove the marks from candles/oils. 

13. Weaver’s Bastion & Brasov Fortification Walls

Brasov has been a settlement since the Teutonic Knights in the 13th-century but it was constantly under threat from Tatar and Turkish invaders.

At one point, the citadel had many defense walls and guard towers that stretched from the top of Mount Tampa to the base of the mountain and then around the medieval city to protect residents inside. 

Although there is no need to protect the city anymore you can still find the remains of the old Brasov fortification walls today. You can take a long walk around the old city walls and find all the guard towers if you wish! 

One of the best places to see what they would have looked like centuries ago is to visit the Weaver’s Bastion or Bastionul Funarilor.

This is the most preserved part of the fortifications and has a small museum to visit where you can learn about Brasov through the centuries. There are some English translations but a lot of it is visual. 

You can take a journey of Brasov over the ages through paintings, photos, and model replicas!

14. Explore Straja Hill Fortress (Cetatuia de pe Straja)

As well as medieval fortifications surrounding Brasov, there were also multiple watchtowers located just outside the city walls on the hills surrounding the city!

One of those was Straja Hill Fortress originally built in the 15th-century. It functioned as a lookout, prison, and city archives.

Unfortunately, there is a lengthy legal dispute going on around the ownership and management of this landmark. So, you cannot go inside.

But, if you wanted to take a walk up to the fortress and explore the area you’re more than welcome to! There are amazing panoramic views to be had from here. 

15. Try traditional Romanian food 

If you wanted to sample some traditional Transylvanian food while you’re in Brasov, you’re in luck. There are plenty of restaurants that fall off of Council Square.

On my visit, I visited La Ceaun which served up a menu of local Romanian meals, wines, and beers. It had a really friendly atmosphere and the food was delicious! 

If you’re wondering what you should try while you’re here, for starters, I would definitely recommend trying a bean soup that is served in a loaf of bread called Ciorbă de cartofi. 

There is also a Romanian dish called Bulz which is essentially polenta that is oven-baked with cheese in a terracotta dish! 

For dessert, you have to try Papanași which is a fried pastry stuffed with cottage cheese and covered with sour cream and jam. It takes a while to make so if you did want to try it, I would order this at the same time as your main meal to save time. 

I loved the Romanian beer called Ursus here. The name translates to ‘Brown Bear’ which is quite appropriate being so close to Mount Tampa! 

16. Go shopping on Strada Republicii

If you were looking for a bit of retail therapy in Brasov or some souvenirs to take home, take a wander down the colourful Strada Republicii.

This acts as the main High Street in the city and you’ll find all sorts of shops, cafés, restaurants, and bars.

You’ll find retail outlets for almost anything and there are quite a few outdoor clothes shops if you’ve forgotten any gear for hiking in the Carpathians.

There are endless souvenir stores/market stalls here if you were looking for some Brasov gifts like magnets, snow globes, and postcards. They also sell traditional Romanian clothes as well! 

17. Try Kurtos Kalacs

One of my favourite European snacks has to be Kurtos Kalacs or sugary sweet Chimney Cakes! 

A Chimney Cake is essentially dough that is wrapped around a cylinder and then coated with butter, cinnamon, and sugar and left to bake. The texture is hard to explain but the result is almost like a cronut. 

The name comes from the fact that when the cake is cooked and removed from the cylinder it looks like a chimney.

Although traditional Kurtos Kalacs are spun with cinnamon and sugar, they come in all different varieties as well. Some have chocolate, sprinkles, fruit and are stuffed with cream! 

It’s a very popular street food here in Romania, especially in the winter months as it’s comfort food. You can find a Kurtos Kalacs food van on Strada Republicii.

They are absolutely delicious and surprisingly cheap too considering their enormous size! I would highly recommend giving them a try while you’re here.

18. Find colourful street art 

I love seeking out some colourful street art on my visits and there are some spectacular pieces to be found in Brasov.

The first can be found around Strada Sforii and the Rope Street Museum. But, the most colourful that I saw was on Piața Sfântul Ioan.

This is a popular place for events in summer but there are usually colourful murals that are painted on the buildings here by local artists! 

19. Beth Israel Synagogue 

While you’re walking around the historic streets of Brasov, the bright red Beth Israel Synagogue is certain to catch your eye! 

There have been Jewish settlers in Transylvania since the 15th-century when the city was Saxon. But, the official settlement permit was granted in 1807.

The Beth Israel Synagogue was built in the Neo-Gothic/Moorish style 1868 but has had multiple renovations since its construction. 

As well as a place of worship it acts as a community headquarters so there is a Kosher restaurant and medical building as part of the complex. You can pay a visit for 5 Lei (RON), you’ll find it on Strada Poarta Schei’s street! 

20. Take a day trip to Rasnov Fortress

A popular day trip from Brasov is a journey over to Rasnov Fortress which is just 20 kilometres from the centre.

You can catch a train from Brasov to Rasnov in under 30 minutes so it’s a perfect choice if you only have a few days here.

Just like Brasov, Rasnov has its very own Hollywood Sign and you’ll be able to see it for miles around the area.

Once you’re here, you can ascend up the rocky hilltop to visit the dramatic Rasnov Fortress. It was built by Teutonic Knights in the 14th-century as a defense fortification against Tatar and Turkish invasions.

Back then, it had 30 houses, a school, chapel, public buildings, nine towers, two bastions, and a drawbridge!

To get to the top you can either take the stairs or get the funicular lift. Then, you pay 10 Lei (RON) to visit the museum. 

21. Visit Bran Castle, the home of Count Dracula

Of course, no visit to Romania would be complete without a trip to the famous Bran Castle that inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula. You are now in Transylvania after all!

It’s only a short drive from Brasov itself, so you must try to make a day trip there if you’re in the area by bus.

If you wanted to visit on a guided tour, you can book this Bran Castle, Peles Castle and Rasnov Fortress tour from Brasov here .

Bran Castle was the famous home of the 15th-century ruler Vlad the Impaler who is referred to as the ‘real Dracula’ due to his bloodthirsty torture habits! 

Although Bram Stoker never visited, he used Prince Vlad’s infamous stories, dramatic fortress, and the dark legends surrounding Transylvania to create the world for his 1897 novel ‘Dracula’. 

So, as well as learning about the history of this castle, you’ll also learn about werewolves, Strigoi’s, ghosts, and dragons myths too! 

Related post – How to visit Dracula’s Castle in Romania & my top tips!

22. Take a day trip to Sinaia & Peles Castle

Another incredible place that you can visit from Brasov is Sinaia. It’s another mountain resort, an hour away from Brasov, that is extremely popular with those living in Bucharest. It is home to some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in the country. 

The jewel in its crown has to be the breathtaking Peles Castle (Peles Palace) which is the most magnificent castle in all of Romania! 

This Neo-Renaissance Palace was built in the 19th-century on the orders of King Carol I after the country gained its independence. 

It’s open to the public and you can take a guided tour through its spectacular staterooms. My personal favourite was the staircase area where there is a huge glass rooftop! This opens up to reveal the night sky and the stars. 

As one of the most popular attractions in all of Romania, I would visit during the week or try to get there as early as you can in summer to save queuing for too long. 

The cost to visit is 50 Lei (RON) for a basic tour and this is taken in CASH ONLY. So, make sure to have the money with you on the day. There is an ATM on the castle grounds but this is Euronet which is notoriously scammy. 

You can visit Sinaia on a day trip from Brasov by train, or, you could take a guided castle tour of Bran Castle, Peles Castle, and Rasnov Fortress to see it all in one go.

Click here to read my complete guide for visiting Peles Castle

How to visit Brasov in Romania

Brasov is easily one of the most popular tourist destinations in Romania and you can easily visit from the capital of Bucharest! 

The fastest and most convenient way to reach Brasov from Bucharest/Sinaia is by train. The journey is relatively cheap depending on what class/train service you take and the journey is just over two hours.

You can book the tickets easily yourself online and the Romanian Trains website (CFR) is in English!  

You can also drive from Bucharest to Brasov in just under 3 hours if you wanted to hire a car and explore more of Transylvania self-guided.

If you weren’t driving and didn’t want to travel by yourself. I would recommend booking a castle tour from Bucharest. 

This way, you can visit Bran Castle, Peles Castle and Brasov in one day! It saves both time and money.

Read more of my Romanian travel guides

Carturesti Carusel – the most beautiful bookshop in Romania !

Save these things to do in Brasov for later! 

Tuesday 31st of May 2022

all this & no mention of liberty bear's?subtract a few & add this sanctuary!

Sophie Pearce

Saturday 11th of June 2022

No, sorry! But, I'll add it to the Rasnov piece as it's nearer to there than Brasov. I'm sure it's great! Thanks, Sophie x

One Day in Brasov Itinerary: A Day Trip from Bucharest

Published on December 11, 2023

by Olivia Ellis

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning a one day in Brasov itinerary is an excellent way to see one of Transylvania’s most beautiful towns and enjoy the gorgeous scenery that lies in the Carpathian mountains.

One of the highlights of visiting Romania, Brasov is known to be the jumping-off point for visiting some of the region’s most imposing castles.

The town itself is filled with incredible history and a wonderful atmosphere that makes it a joy to explore. Whether you’re winding your way through Transylvania or are simply looking for a day trip from Bucharest, heading to Brasov is a wonderful addition to any trip to Romania.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Brasov?

Deciding how many days to spend in Brasov can be a difficult feat due to the gap between how long visitors typically stay and how much time to spend in Brasov is ideal to really understand the city and do it justice.

Many visitors often allocate only a brief window for Brasov, typically as part of a Transylvania tour. However, in my view, a full day is essential to truly appreciate the city.

A day trip from Bucharest to Brasov allows ample time to explore key sites without feeling rushed. While even a short stop in Brasov is better than not visiting at all, taking the time to move at a leisurely pace is much more enjoyable.

Furthermore, if you plan on spending time in other parts of Transylvania as part of a longer Romania itinerary , Brasov is an ideal city to have as a base to explore elsewhere in the region, especially to places like Peles Castle, Sibiu and Sighisoara.

The city has just about everything you can need, with a lovely small-town feel and bygone ambiance.

Getting To & Around Brasov

Due to its location in central Romania, Brasov is pretty convenient to reach, whether you prefer to rent a car during your travels, take a train, or fly.

Brasov can be reached by car in about 2.5 from Romania’s capital of Bucharest , just under 4 hours from Transylvania’s unofficial capital of Cluj-Napoca and about 5 hours from the city of Timisoara.

Renting a car for your time in Brasov is a great option if you plan on visiting other areas of Transylvania and Romania, especially since parking in Brasov isn’t too difficult to get a hold of unless you’re staying in the old town of the city. You can browse car rental options here .

If you’re already in Romania and prefer to take the train to Brasov, the city is easily accessible by Romanian rail and bus. Trains to Brasov are pretty frequent from major cities in Romania as well as smaller towns and cities that are close to Brasov, such as Rasnov and Sibiu. You can view schedules here .

Regarding train companies, Romania features both national and private rail services. This implies that the price, quality, and speed of your journey may vary depending on the company you choose to travel with.

Romania’s National rail company, CFR Calatori is typically the cheapest to travel with as well as the one with the most frequent services, with the downside of older trains usually with no air conditioning and slower services.

The private train companies in Romania such as Căile Ferate Române, Softrans, and Regiotrans will all be slightly more expensive, as well as more comfortable, with air-conditioned carriages.

Regardless of which company you decide to travel with, Romania is undoubtedly a country to conveniently and affordably travel around, and travelling to Brasov is no exception.

As of June 2023, Brasov has its own airport, Brasov-Ghimbav Airport, located a short 11 km outside the city centre. While the airport currently only services a small handful of routes from Germany and the UK, more airlines and routes are expected to be added to the flight schedule in the future.

For those of you who are looking to only do a day trip from Bucharest and not spend the night, there are several organised tours available such as this full-day tour or this private tour.

When you arrive in Brasov, the three most common ways to get around the city are; public transportation, ride-sharing, and walking.

Bus transport and trolleybuses serve public transportation in Brasov. The system consists of approximately 60 buses, offering frequent services with numerous stops across the city. This extensive network allows convenient travel to and from your destinations during your visit.

Tickets are affordable and can be purchased at a RAT kiosk throughout the city and must be in your possession before boarding, as well as validated at the machine once on board.

Ride-sharing apps, such as Uber or Bolt, are incredibly popular in Romania, as well as affordable. For reference, a 10-minute ride in Brasov will set you back around 20 lei (€4) and shorter rides will be slightly cheaper.

Drivers are plentiful, friendly, and the ease of booking through user-friendly apps enhances the overall convenience of using ride-sharing services in Brasov.

While the city of Brasov is one of Romania’s biggest cities and sprawls several urban and residential areas, the city centre is rather compact, making it easy and enjoyable to get around on foot.

The unique blend of architecture and pleasant surroundings creates a charming atmosphere for leisurely strolls, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture that define Brasov.

1-Day Brasov Itinerary

This one-day itinerary in Brasov will take you on a journey from the city’s medieval historic centre, winding through its ancient Dacian streets, taking in the city’s historic monuments, breathing in the fresh Carpathian air, and enjoying comforting, classic Transylvanian dishes.

Council Square

Start your day in the central Council Square, or Piața Sfatului in Romanian. Here, you’ll be able to enjoy a panoramic view of Brasov, embracing the vibrant Baroque buildings, the historic Black Church, and the lush Carpathian Mountains gracefully tucked behind the city.

The Council Square has a history dating back several centuries and has been a central hub for civic and commercial activities since medieval times, spanning various occupations in the city, from the Ottomans to the Saxons and most recently, the Hungarians.

This intricate history is deeply reflected in the architecture of Council Square, and by taking a moment, or a few, by stopping at one of the cafés lining the square, you’ll see that Brasov is a city that both preserves and presents its past, seamlessly blending it with the culture of the present.

The Black Church

One of Brasov’s most recognized monuments, The Black Church, or Biserica Neagră, is situated just behind Council Square.

As the largest Gothic church in Romania, this remarkably well-preserved Orthodox church dating back to the 14th century stands as an iconic symbol representing the city’s resilience despite its tumultuous history.

Initially named as the Church of Saint Mary, the Black Church took its current name after a major fire in Brasov in 1689, which resulted in the darkening of the church’s walls. The fire, a devastating event in the city’s history, led to extensive restoration work, including the introduction of Baroque elements to the church’s interior.

While the church is a marvel in itself from the outside, I recommend visiting the inside as well to gain a deeper understanding of one of the most defining features of Brasov.

The church is typically open daily for visits (check times in advance) and tickets can be purchased either online, or across the street from the Black Church’s giftshop, INSPIRATIO.

Wander Brasov’s Historic Streets

After exploring the Black Church, I recommend dedicating a substantial portion of your day to strolling through the historic cobbled streets of Brasov.

With structures dating back centuries and an intimate small-town ambiance, this, in my opinion, is the ideal way to acquaint yourself with the city.

The Old Town features charming bookshops like the historically housed Librăria Humanitas, decorated with stunning original frescoes on the ceiling.

Additionally, you’ll encounter a wide array of unique shops, from well-known high street stores to independent shops offering traditional Transylvanian and Romanian goods. Don’t miss the lively markets, each creating a vibrant atmosphere with quirky finds.

You could also take in the Black Tower and the nearby, larger White Tower (Turnul Negru and Turnul Alb in Romanian respectively). These medieval fortresses were constructed in the 15th century and the White Tower houses its own small museum.

It’s also worth wandering over to the First Romanian School Museum, which is a fascinating history museum housed in a beautiful Baroque building that was originally constructed in the late 16th Century.

To learn more information about Brasov and its history, I suggest taking part in a walking tour, where you’ll wander throughout the city with a local while learning interesting pieces of information as well as suggestions for your stay.

Walkabout Free Tour is a free walking tour (tip-based) that meets in Council Square and takes you through the city’s 800 years of history. You can join a paid walking tour .

Mount Tampa & the Brasov Sign

After making yourself familiar with Brasov’s Old Town and most iconic historic monuments, it’s time to make your way above the city to admire the city’s most recognisable modern-day monument, the Brasov sign.

In the same style as the Hollywood sign yet sitting in the Carpathian Mountains rather than the Hollywood Hills, there’s nothing more iconic about modern-day Brasov than its white sign looking out over the city.

The sign is located at Tampa Peak, 422m above the city of Brasov and easily offers some of the most spectacular, panoramic views of Brasov, the surrounding Carpathian Mountains and mystical Transylvanian wilderness.

To get to the Brasov sign and Tampa Peak, you have two options; either take a 2-minute ride from the boundaries of Brasov’s old town by the Tampa Cable Car, or embark on an invigorating hike beneath the cable car to reach the Brasov sign and Tampa Peak.

With positives and negatives of both, it ultimately depends on which suits you best to reach the peak. If you’re staying in Brasov for more than a day, you can also do both, as you’ll likely find yourself wanting to return.

The Tampa Cable Car operates daily, excluding Mondays, throughout most of the year. Extended hours are available during peak summer months. Though not comparable to a Disney World attraction, it offers a swift and pleasant ascent of Tampa Mountain, providing beautiful views without the physical strain of a hike, for those who prefer to skip it.

Once you reach the top, you’ll come across an inviting atmosphere, with a restaurant/café, and the magical feeling that you’ve just been transported into the mountains from the city! From here, you’re just a short 5-minute walk away from the Brasov sign and lookout points from Tampa Peak.

If you’re up for hiking to Tampa Peak, the trail begins at the base of Tampa Mountain, following well-marked trails through lush forests and meadows. The ascent provides a rewarding challenge, yet not too difficult for those in moderately good shape, leading to panoramic views of Brasov and the surrounding landscapes.

If you decide to embark on the hike, make sure you wear comfortable clothing and shoes, carry water, and check the weather conditions before setting out, as the cable car won’t run in adverse weather.

While Brasov is a delight from its streets below, it’s a completely different experience seeing it from above, with the unique perspective of easily being able to take in the centuries of history through its varying architecture, both Saxon, Transylvania, and Brutalist. There’s no doubt that going up Mt Tampa is one of the best things to do in Brasov.

Dinner at La Ceaun

Whether you’ve hiked up Tampa Peak or were whisked up by cable car, you’ve probably built up an appetite at this point and Brasov is a wonderful place to be hungry, thanks to its hearty traditional food, and cosy, welcoming restaurants.

My recommendation for dinner and to round out your day in Brasov is to head back to Council Square and eat at La Ceaun, or the Cauldron. Here, traditional Romanian flavours meet contemporary presentation.

This charming restaurant offers a diverse menu showcasing regional specialities, savoury dishes, warm hospitality, and a cosy ambiance makes dining at La Ceaun a memorable experience in the heart of Brasov.

Have 2 Days in Brasov?

As stated previously, Brasov is a wonderful city to spend more than one day in, whether you decide to spend 2 days in Brasov, discovering the city further or using it as a base while visiting other nearby areas.

Bran Castle

Undoubtedly the most renowned site in Transylvania, Bran Castle, famously known as Dracula’s Castle, graces the town of Bran, just 30 km outside of Brasov.

While a taxi or car provides the most convenient access, a bus operates every 30 minutes on weekdays and hourly on weekends from Brasov’s Terminal 2 (Autogara Bartolomeu) to Bran. The scenic 45-minute journey unveils Transylvanian landscapes and quaint towns.

Explore the medieval Bran Castle, and afterwards, meander through Bran’s historic corners, giving impressive views of the castle from below.

If you have your own car, it is also very easy to pair a trip to Bran with a stop in the small town of Rasnov, located about halfway between Brasov and Bran. Known for the imposing Rasnov Fortress, it’s a great place to stop off and wander around for a bit. You can also join an organised tour.

Libearty Bear Sanctuary

For a different kind of trip outside of Brasov, I highly suggest visiting the emotional yet inspiring, Libearty Bear Sanctuary, the largest bear sanctuary in Europe, located near Zarnesti, 25 km outside of Brasov.

Libearty Bear is one of the most notable wildlife conservation projects in the region and continues to grow, saving more animals from treacherous conditions. Established in 2005, the sanctuary is dedicated to rescuing and providing a safe, natural environment for captive bears that have been previously exploited for entertainment or kept in inadequate conditions.

Consider pre-booking tickets in advance , as guided tours are the only way of exploring the Libearty Bear Sanctuary. All proceeds from ticket sales contribute to the sanctuary’s mission and consider adopting your very own bear to support their ongoing welfare efforts.

Where to Stay in Brasov

Arce Boutique Hotel – Located within a minute’s of Brasov’s main attractions, this little boutique hotel has several comfortable rooms, a great terrace, an exceptional breakfast and lots of other perks.

Pensiunea Toscana – A good upmarket option in the Old Town of Brasov, this hotel has a range of plush rooms, an inviting on-site bar, a great breakfast and a lovely garden for guests to enjoy.

Zozo Hostel – This is a good place to stay in Brasov for budget and solo travellers, this cabin-like hostel is cosy and offers both dorms and private rooms. They have great common areas and self-catering facilities.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Brasov hotels!

While Brasov isn’t the city that typically comes to mind when thinking of medieval European cities, it’s a destination that should definitely be on your travel radar.

Are you planning to visit Brasov? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Perfect 5 to 7 Days in Romania Itinerary

The Perfect 1, 2 or 3 Days in Bucharest Itinerary

The Ultimate 2-Week Eastern Europe Itinerary: 6 Great Routes

About Olivia Ellis

Olivia is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Michigan, USA, she is currently living in Athens, Greece exploring Europe and filmmaking. When she’s not travelling or writing, Olivia can be found cooking delicious new recipes from around the world, reading, and spending time outdoors.

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2 day Brasov Itinerary: Best Things To Do In Brasov

Planning a 2 day Brasov itinerary? In this in-depth travel guide, we’ll show you all the best things to do in Brasov – including day trips to beautiful castles in the Transylvania region!

As well as a Brasov 2 day itinerary, we’ll tell you how to get here, how to get around, where to eat and where to stay in the beautiful medieval city. Let’s explore what to do in Brasov in 2 days!

Brasov is a beautiful city in the Transylvania region of Romania! It’s one of the best places to visit in Romania and the perfect base to explore the surroundings outside of the Carpathian Mountains. Brasov is home to a medieval Old Town with picturesque colourful buildings and impressive churches.

The city is one of seven walled citadels in Romania built by the Transylvanian Saxons and the well-preserved wall still exists to this day holding so much history. With 2 days in Brasov, you can explore wonderful castles on day trips and hike up to the top of a peak for sunset views of Transylvania. If you’re wondering what to do in Brasov in 2 days, you’re in the right place!

This post may contain affiliate links. We will receive a small commission if you make a purchase using these links, at no additional cost to you .

How to get to Brasov

Table of Contents (Skip to a section!)

The best way to get to Brasov is by flying into Bucharest and catching a 2.5-hour train ride to Brasov. We took a night bus from Sofia, Bulgaria to Bucharest using FlixBus and then caught the train to Brasov.

Car – Renting a car in Romania has been getting more popular over the last few years. Although it’s totally possible to visit Brasov without a car, you may want a car to travel to other regions not connected by transport. Here’s a link to renting a car in Romania !

Train – There are many trains a day leaving from Bucharest station, they may also stop at Sinaia along the way which is one of the day trips we’re going to mention in this Brasov 2 day itinerary. Have a look at the train schedule ! If you’re arriving from Cluj-Napoca or another destination in Romania, the trains do run daily but not as frequently.

How to get around Brasov

Local Buses – Brasov has good public transport links with buses, however, in order to buy a ticket (2.5 lei) you must visit certain stations in the city. There’s some outside the main train station that you can use to get to your accommodation.

Bolt Scooters – Grabbing a scooter is a very fun way to get around the city, although only if you ride safely. We used them to get from Old Town to the bus station in Brasov and although it was very smooth down main roads, there were a lot of drains and bumps – be super careful and watch the traffic.

Uber / Bolt – Another easy way to get around is by downloading the Uber or Bolt app and booking a driver for a short trip around Brasov. This is a convenient way to get from the Old Town to the bus or train stations in Brasov.

2 Day Brasov Itinerary: Best Things to do in Brasov

In this Brasov 2 day itinerary, we’ll show you all the best things to do in Brasov and some of the day trips you can do from the city. There are a few more tips and information at the end of this travel guide – take a look if you want to plan the perfect 2 day Brasov itinerary!

Day 1 – Old Town, Churches & Tampa Peak

If you only have 2 days in Brasov, try to arrive in the city by midday to make the most of your time here. We’re going to list all the best things to do in Brasov’s main area, however, it’s also possible to spread these out over the two days you have here!

Explore Brasov’s Old Town

The beautiful Old Town of Brasov is surrounded by Medieval city walls built in the 1400s. The locals in Brasov began building a fortress around the city and before completion, the Ottoman Empire invaded Transylvania and conquered the city. The conquering didn’t last for long and the wall continued to be built creating a solid defence Brasov grew into the cultural historic city it is today.

When walking around the cobbled Old Street, you can feel the rich history as well as find modern restaurants, shops and hip cafes. The Council Square is the main area in the Old Town and is hard to miss on your 2 days in Brasov itinerary – there are many places to eat in the square if you’re feeling hungry!

Admire Black Church

Brasov is home to the largest Gothic church in Southeastern Europe! It’s within the Old Town area, so it’s worth a visit on your Brasov 2 day itinerary. It’s also possible to go inside for a small entry fee to see one of the largest organs in Eastern Europe and many antique rugs. ( Location here !)

Walk down the Rope Street

Another interesting find in Brasov is one of the narrowest streets in Europe (also known as (Strada Sforii)! It’s around four feet wide and doesn’t actually lead anywhere exciting. It was originally used as an access route by firefighters back in the day. Now the walls are filled with graffiti and it’s just a cool place to see in Brasov! ( Location here !)

Spot the White Tower & Black Tower

As you now know, the fortress in Brasov has a lot of history and it’s still possible to find preserved medieval fortifications on your Brasov 2 day itinerary! It’s fascinating walking around these old walls and imagining what life was like back then. Here are the locations for two defensive buildings on the walls- White Tower Location & Black Tower Location ! The views are also lovely!

Visit the First Romanian School

Walk through the unique Șchei Gate and head over to the Schei district in Brasov. From the gate, it’s only a short walk to find the first school in Romania, which is now a museum. The price to enter is 20 lei and a tour guide is included! It’s a great opportunity to learn about the history of Romania on your 2 day Brasov itinerary. Find the location here !

Admire Biserica Sfântul Nicolae

Another interesting Orthodox Church to see in Brasov. It’s exactly opposite the first Romanian School so it’s definitely worth a visit on your 2 day Brasov Itinerary. The interior isn’t as well maintained as other spots Location here!

Climb up to Tâmpa Peak

One of the best things to do in Brasov is to see the view of the Carpathian Mountains and Old Town from Tampa Peak. We’ve kept this to the end of day 1 on your Brasov 2 day itinerary as it’s beautiful at sunset.

Mount Tampa towers over the city of Brasov with its Hollywood-like sign that can’t be missed! There is a cable car that will take you to the top to skip the 1-hour hike compared to a 3-minute cable car ride (the cable car is 15 lei one way (up or down) and 25 lei return). However the cable car stops before sunset, so you’ll either have to hike or wait a little while until beautiful colours change in the sky.

Tip – This spot gets very busy when the cable car is running, wait until after the cable car has stopped if you want a people-free zone to relax.

After an amazing day, you now know what to do in Brasov and these things to do can be spread over the first day or part of your second day. Now it’s time to find some food, head to Old Town and pick one of the many restaurants to enjoy for the evening. We recommend Rawdia if you’re after some nutritious food!

Day 2 – Day Trip to Bran Castle

For the second day of your 2 day itinerary in Brasov, we recommend you take a day trip to a nearby town to visit one of the most famous castles in Transylvania, Romania!

Day trip to Bran Castle

Visiting Bran Castle is one of the best things to do in Brasov as it’s only a short journey away from the city. Whilst you’re so close, take the opportunity to go inside the castle and walk around the small town of Bran.

Bran Castle is also known as the home of Dracula due to Bram Stoker’s novel and the story of Vlad the Impaler. It is one of the most famous places to visit in Transylvania and a national landmark! The castle was built between 1377 and 1388 became and became the first private museum in Romania in 2009.

The price to enter Bran Castle is 45 lei and you can purchase your tickets online via Bran Castle’s website to skip the queue !

Inside the castle, there’s so much information to learn more about the castle, Vlad the Impaler and the Irish author who created the novel Dracula. It’s even possible to visit the castle during Halloween for an extra spooky night!

How to get to Bran Castle from Brasov?

Bran Castle is only a 40-minute drive from Brasov, however, if you’re not renting a car (like we didn’t), it’s totally possible to get to Bran Castle by public bus.

Head to Autogara 2 Transbus Codreanu and find the bus that says Bran on it. You pay cash on the bus with the driver and let him know where you’re going – it’s only 13 lei per person to get from Brasov to Bran by bus. The buses leave every hour although this may change – we caught the 9 am bus and arrived in Bran at 10 am whilst it was still on the quieter side.

To get back to Brasov from Bran, just do the same journey in reverse – wait at the bus stop on the other side of the road from where you got off. To get to and from the bus station in Brasov, we safely used scooters as we weren’t close to a local bus stop with a ticket machine. (The scooters cost around 10 lei each for a 20-minute scooter ride )

Browse around Bran

Once you’ve admired the castle, have a stroll around the grounds before having a look around Bran town. There are a few markets and many Dracula and Transylvanian-themed gifts around. We took a packed lunch and ate it on the grounds of the castle, however, there are a few restaurants around.

There’s also a lovely spot to view the castle from if you walk behind the castle – find the location here !

Visit Rasnov

On your way back to Brasov – stopover in Rasnov for a short browse of another town in Transylvania, Romania. The main things to do are visit Rasnov Fortress, Valea Cetatii Cave and Dino Park. Rasnov Fortress can be seen on the drive or bus back to Brasov along with another Hollywood-like sign on the hills! If you’re not too tired Rasnov is worth a stop on your 2 days in Brasov.

Once you arrive back in the city, your 2 day Brasov itinerary comes to an end! Visit the Old Town and have a walk around the base of Tampa Peak. Brasov is such a beautiful city – enjoy your final evening!

More things to do in Brasov

• Day Trip to Sinaia ( Peles Castle ) – take a 1-hour train ride to Sinaia to explore another beautiful castle in Romania. It’s on the way to Bucharest or you can book a tour with GetYourGuide here !
• Take a Brasov Free Walking Tour – learn more about the history of Brasov on a guided tour around the city. Find out about where to meet and the times of the tours here ! (currently daily at 10:30 AM)
• Check out our Sighisoara Itinerary to plan your trip around Romania!

Where to stay in Brasov

The best place to stay in Brasov is near the historic Old Town . For this 2 days in Brasov itinerary, we recommend staying close to the Old Town or near to Brașov Train Station and Autogara 2 Transbus Codreanu as these will be used for day trips! We also used Bolt and local buses to get around the city.

Secret Boutique Hostel $-$$ – Next to the historic Old Town is this new and modern hostel in Brasov! The perfect spot to base yourself if you’re a backpacker! Find them on Hostelworld here !

Oldtown Refuge  $-$$ – A lovely furnished apartment a short walk away from the Old Town in Brasov! We love staying in places with kitchens to make a packed lunch!  Find them on Booking.com here !

Where to eat in Brasov

If you’re spending 2 days in Brasov, there are plenty of restaurants to choose from in Old Town and the surrounding area. In the summer – there are many ice cream shops and places to grab a drink to chill after a busy day. Here are a few places we recommend in Brasov that have vegan options:

Delicious Raw $-$$ – Amazing cakes & sweet treats in Brasov – Here’s the menu!

Cartofisserie $ – Very good fries and other snacks to have a little break – Here’s the website !

Eat & Smile Bistro Brasov  $-$$ – An international menu with many options – Browse the menu here!

Rawdia $-$$ – A healthy and nutritious spot in Brasov – Here’s the menu !

Here’s our guide to the best vegan-friendly cities in Europe !

Best time to visit Brasov

Brasov is a destination that’s great to visit all year round! The summer months are beautiful with clear skies and hot weather, however, it’s also the most popular time to visit Brasov. In the winter, it snows from November to March and there are amazing skiing or snowboarding opportunities around the area!

For this itinerary, we recommend visiting between May to October .

Is Brasov worth visiting?

Yes! Brasov is one of the best spots in Romania to stay for a few nights and explore the surroundings. There are many great things to do in Brasov and amazing day trips to take from the historic city. We recommend Brasov over Bucharest if you’re only in Romania for a few days.

How many days should you spend in Brasov?

If Brasov is the only place you’re visiting on your Romania trip, we recommend spending at least 3 days visiting two beautiful castles and exploring the city. In this 2 day Brasov itinerary, we’ve told you all the best things to see in Brasov and the day trips to Bran and Sinaia that you can do. If you’re visiting Sinaia already, then 2 days in Brasov is enough. It’s totally possible to stay longer, the old town is so nice!

Is Bran Castle worth visiting?

Bran Castle is definitely worth visiting on your 2 day Brasov itinerary – it’s easy to get to, affordable and a great place to learn about the mystical stories of Transylvania. Yes, it can often be busy as it’s one of the most popular castles in Romania. This shouldn’t hold you back from visiting, just try to Bran early before 10 am.

What to pack for 2 days in Brasov?

Romania has four seasons, and it can get very cold in the wintertime! It can also get hot in the summer. Check what the weather is like the week before your visit and bring your normal clothes plus a good pair of walking shoes! Here are a few travel essentials we always carry:

• Amazon Basics Packing Cubes  – The easiest way to pack your backpack or suitcase!
• Stainless Steel Water Bottle  – Saves buying plastic water bottles all the time!
• Anker Power Bank  – Charge up your gadgets when you’re on the go!
• Rain Mac in a Bag  – A lightweight raincoat is always good to have in your bag.
• Worldwide Travel Adaptor  – Great for visiting multiple countries and charging multiple gadgets.
• Joby GorillaPod 3K Pro Kit  – A lightweight tripod to fit in your bag at all times! When there’s no one around to take a photo of you – the tripod saves the day! We love our  Joby GorillaPod  and use it for our  Sony A600 . There’s also a version for a phone –  Joby Phone Tripod .

Helpful Links : Book your hostels here / FlixBus here / Romania Trains here / Romania Buses here

More  Romania  guides:

• 1 Week Romania Itinerary
• Sighisoara Itinerary: Best Things To Do
• Best Things To Do in Sinaia Romania
• All our  Romania posts !

Also check out more of Eastern Europe – 2 Day Plovdiv Itinerary (Bulgaria), Kotor Itinerary (Montenegro) and Mostar itinerary (Bosnia and Herzegovina)

SafetyWing Nomad Insurance

Don’t forget Travel Insurance! SafetyWing is a totally flexible monthly-rolling travel insurance to help you stay safe on your trip anywhere in the world. Find out more here!

That’s the end of our  2 day Brasov Itinerary: Best things to do in Brasov, Romania! Have an amazing trip to Brasov and if you need any more help planning – send us a message on Instagram (@thesunrisedreamers) or leave a comment below!

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Amy & Dan are the founders of The Sunrise Dreamers. They are travellers from the UK who have been on the road since 2017 whilst living in places like England, Canada, Thailand and the Canary Islands. They share their knowledge of travelling the world with detailed travel guides and tips. They're experts in vegan travel and show their audience how to travel on a budget.

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Really good blog post. Hi Dan. I spy magnets. Bran Castle looks amazing!

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10 Amazing Things To Do In Brasov [+ WINTER GUIDE]

Something which surprised me was how much I enjoyed my visit to Brasov and the other smaller Romanian cities. Brasov and  Sibiu  have ended up being two places I highly recommend to anyone visiting Romania or Eastern Europe for that matter. Especially if you can visit during December and visit the  amazing Christmas markets  like we got to. Allow at least 3 days to  explore the best things to do in Brasov and my favourite days trips  into Transylvania.

The population of Brasov is close to 300,000 although has much more of a small-town feel. It was a nice change coming from  Bucharest , one of Europes largest cities to a place where everyone smiled at you. Instead of being scammed by taxi drivers, we left the train station and were met with drivers who volunteered the history of the city and all the points of interest we should check out during our stay.

As we drove towards our Airbnb we marvelled at the romantic medieval architecture and Tampa Mountain which dominates the backdrop. To ensure you have the most enjoyable stay, read on for my top tips for visiting Brasov.

Disclaimer:   Some links in this article are affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through them, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. For more information on my disclaimer  click here .

• 1 HOW TO GET TO BRASOV
• 2 WHERE TO STAY IN BRASOV
• 3.1 BRASOV FREE WALKING TOUR
• 3.2 EXPLORE PIATA SFATULUI
• 3.3 ENTER THE BISERICA NEAGRA (BLACK CHURCH)
• 3.4 SEE THE BLACK AND WHITE TOWERS
• 3.5 CLIMB TAMPA MOUNTAIN
• 3.6 WANDER DOWN STRING STREET
• 3.7 VISIT BRASOV’S SAINT NICHOLAS CHURCH
• 3.8 TRY A KURTOS KALACS
• 3.9 ADMIRE CATHERINE’S GATE
• 4 DAY TRIPS TO INCLUDE IN YOUR BRASOV ITINERARY

HOW TO GET TO BRASOV

The easiest way to visit Brasov and other destinations within Romania is by  train . While the train may not be the quickest way, they are frequent, cheap and offer beautiful views of the countryside. The  Romania Tourism  website gives a great rundown of the trains and their schedules. Expect the train to take 2.5 hours from Bucharest on the express line and close to 4 on the regional.

The closest  airport  to Brasov is 136km away in Sibiu but the most major airport is in Bucharest.

Another option is to hire a  car  and drive through Romania. If we weren’t on a budget-trip this would have been our first option. You get to enjoy the scenery and can take detours along the way.

Buses  are available to take from cities the train does not go through. You can find bus schedules at  Autogari .

Or if you’re coming from the  magical winter destination of Budapest , you can catch a 10 hour train south into Sibiu.

WHERE TO STAY IN BRASOV

During my visit to Brasov, I stayed in  Airbnb ‘Medieval Studio ‘. It is centrally located making it an ideal location for ticking off the best things to do in Brasov. It’s located right on the edge of the pedestrian-only Old Town and 3.5 km’s from the train station.

The owner Miriam is a superhost and went out of her way to make us feel comfortable and check us in easily. The entire studio is just 31 Euros/night. Such a bargain!

Brasov is a walkable city, hence it feeling much smaller than it’s population. Stay anywhere within or close by the Old Town and you can walk to all the attractions and sites.

See More: Another walkable city we loved is Izmir, Turkey

There are plenty of hostels in Brasov. A quick search on  Hostel World  brings up 20 different hostels. Although I didn’t stay in a hostel during my stay  Hostel Boemia  is located smack bang in the middle of the Old Town and gets a 9.6/10 on Hostel World. Beds in a mixed dorm start from $15 USD/night.

THINGS TO DO IN BRASOV

Brasov free walking tour.

If you know me, you’ll know I love to do  free walking tours  when I arrive in a city. Unfortunately, I didn’t experience this one personally but have been told it is well worthwhile. Brasov has a history dating back to medieval days and is located in Dracula’s country.

The tour lasts two hours and will tick off a few of the sites I mention below. The best part is you get all of your guides local knowledge to go with it. Tours start at 6:00 pm, perfect to do on the day of your arrival. Meet your guide in the main square by the fountain.

EXPLORE PIATA SFATULUI

Piata Sfatului is Brasov’s main square. As with all medieval cities, this square was the place for town meetings and beheadings. Walking through the main square now with restaurants and their outdoor dining tables, it’s hard to imagine how far back this city dates.

In the centre of the square, is the town hall bell tower and right beside that the beautiful fountain surrounded by pastel-coloured buildings.

If you’re lucky enough to visit in December, this is where you will find Brasov’s, Christmas Market. Romania is a wonderful place to visit to hop between Christmas Markets and add to your  Christmas travel destinations of Europe .

ENTER THE BISERICA NEAGRA (BLACK CHURCH)

The Black Church is located on the southwestern corner of the Piata Sfatului. The first thing I noticed when looking at the church is that it is not black. The church received its name from a fire which took place over 200 years ago and stained the walls black. Restorations have since cleaned up any smokey remains.

What makes the church famous other than its domineering presence in the Old Town is it is said to have one of the greatest organs in Europe. With over 4000 pipes and constructed in the 1800s this church is one to see for yourself.

Entry to the Black Church is 4 Lei (<1 USD).

SEE THE BLACK AND WHITE TOWERS

These two watchtowers were built in the 1400s as part of the defence wall around the city. The defence wall was 3km long, 2m wide and 12m high to protect from repeated attacks by the Turks and Tartars.

To visit the towers, head southwest out of the old town and then take a righthand turn down Strada Dupa Ziduri. The street turns into a footpath next to a small canal. Heading along this you will first come to the black tower and then to the white tower.

CLIMB TAMPA MOUNTAIN

One of the top things to do in Brasov is climb to the top of it!

Brasov sits at the base of Mount Tampa. From the Old Town, you will notice the Hollywood-like ‘Brasov’ sign sitting on the hill and a cable car which takes tourists to the top.

Sitting at 900m above sea level, Tampa is a great mountain to hike up if the weather is nice and you have the time. The hike from the bottom takes around 1 hour with a variety of trails to choose from. Once you have reached the top there are plenty of other hiking trails to do.

For the people less inclined to hike to the top; luckily for you, there is a cable car. The cable car costs 16 Lei (4 USD) for a return trip and drops you off right by the peak. Less than 5 minutes of uphill walking you come to the top viewing platform. From here you are rewarded with beautiful views over the city of Brasov and the surrounding valleys.

WANDER DOWN STRING STREET

During my European travels, I have come across two claims for the ‘narrowest street in Europe’. One here in Brasov called Strada Sforii or String Street and secondly in Trogir, Croatia. After a google search, String Street does come up time and time again – but it is not the narrowest. The narrowest point of String Street is 44 inches and the narrowest I could find is Spreuerhofstraße in Germany at 12.2 inches.

This street is very easy to miss and honestly all I can say now is ‘I have been down one of Europes narrowest streets’. But it does have some cool street art and a little plaque telling what it was used for (I’ll leave that for you to find).

VISIT BRASOV’S SAINT NICHOLAS CHURCH

Explore beyond the Old Town and visit Saint Nicholas Church and its surrounds. The church sits in the oldest part of the city and has records which date it back to the 13th Century. Within the church grounds, you will find the first Romanian school and a small cemetery also worth checking out.

TRY A KURTOS KALACS

No visit to Brasov is complete without trying a Kurtos Kalac. While I’m sure there are many places to find a Kurtos in Brasov, the only real place to buy one is the Kurtos stand on the main street.

So what is a kurtos? A kurtos is a sweet bread pastry. It is wrapped around a wooden mould and then cooked over a grill in a rotisserie like style. Once cooked it is served as a hollow pastry with various toppings coating it. The original topping is a crunchy caramel while others include coconut, crushed almonds or walnuts and cinnamon.

ADMIRE CATHERINE’S GATE

As soon as I saw a picture of Catherine’s Gate, I knew I had to visit. It looks like something straight out of a fairytale! The entry into Brasov has four small turrets surrounding the centre one. This, in medieval times, signified the right for the town to sentence someone to death if they were to step out of line.

DAY TRIPS TO INCLUDE IN YOUR BRASOV ITINERARY

Include a few spare days during your visit to Brasov for day trips. Brasov is a wonderful place to base yourself for a few day trips into the Transylvanian countryside. Some ideas of day trips to include are a visit to Dracula’s castle, the bear sanctuary, Rasnov Fortress and into the Carpathian Mountains.

Below are a few tours with Get Your Guide which are worth checking out. Or if you want to visit Bran Castle on your own here are some tips on  getting to Bran .

My name is Erin, the lady behind Curiously Erin. After more than 10 years of travelling and working abroad, I wanted to create a platform where I could share my stories and travels. My goal is to help you live the life you desire and inspire you to travel more.

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20 things to do in Brașov, Romania: a city of cobblestones and colour

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Here’s 20 things to do in Brasov, Romania – a list I’ve put together after enjoying two days there in summer. Brasov – which should really be Brașov but my computer doesn’t like typing that – is pronounced Bra-shov. It’s incredibly pretty, with lots of photogenic cobbled streets and a busy square where you can sit and people-watch against the impressive backdrop of mountains. It’s absolutely full of history (and of course the whole Dracula tale), and something that really struck me was the huge German influence from when it was a Saxon city. The buildings look really German and it’s very popular with German tourists (we even found a bar serving Munich ‘s Augustiner beer!) but it also has a very unique feel to it that is absolutely Romanian.

Like  Bucharest , Brasov is very affordable for us Western European tourists. However, in contrast to Bucharest, it was very clean and well maintained, with neat and tidy parks and freshly painted shops. The café culture is equally thriving, but the bar culture possibly even more so. It may look like a sleepy little medieval city on the surface but it really comes alive at night. Some of the main streets become one long terrace full of both locals and tourists sampling the local alcoholic beverages.

Anyway, here’s my top 20 things to do in Brasov…

20 things to do in Brasov, Romania

1. get a feel for brasov on the free walking tour – one of the best things to do in brasov for your first day.

I know I say this in every blog post ever (sorry if you’re a regular and sick of it) but you can’t beat a good old walking tour to get a decent overview of any new city. The Brasov Walkabout free tour  was no exception. It covers all the main sights, including the first Romanian school, which was probably the most interesting bit for me.

The tour meets every day by the fountain in the main square and lasts about 2 hours. Starting times vary depending on season, so check ahead. And as ever, despite being free, you should tip at the end.

2. Photograph Brasov’s ‘Hollywood’ sign

On top of Mount Tampa overlooking the city of Brasov, you can’t miss the massive Hollywood-style sign spelling out Brasov in white letters. But just in case you missed it in the daytime, it goes one step further than the Hollywood one and lights up at night so you can’t fail to spot it from almost everywhere in the city.

There is a reason behind the city having its own Hollywood sign. Between 1950 and 1960, Brasov was given the name Orașul Stalin (Stalin City). A bizarre part of this involved spelling out the name ‘Stalin’ on Mount Tampa using fir trees. Needless to say, they got rid of that as soon as they could and decided to replace it with the Hollywood-style letters.

3. Watch the world go by in Piața Sfatului (Council Square)

Brasov’s main square is a picture-perfect place for people watching from one of the many bars or cafés around it. It’s said to be the place that the legendary Pied Piper led the unsuspecting (and frankly idiotic) children of Hamlin.

I’d love to show you a photo of it, or describe the best café or bar to enjoy it from… but when I was there, it was ENTIRELY full of scaffolding and stage equipment because they were setting up for a small music festival. So for the entire three days we spent in Brasov, the supposedly idyllic square was reduced to a sea of poles, cables and machinery.

To add insult to injury, James Blunt was headlining the festival. You couldn’t make this up.

4. Go up the Tampa Cable Car…

This is a must-do if you’re in Brasov. I mean, when is a cable car not a must-do? There has to be some sort of unwritten rule about that.

You can find the entrance here . It costs 18 LEI per person there and back, or 10 LEI just to go up if you have the time and energy to hike down (which should take about an hour).

The actual cable car journey must be a maximum of about 3 minutes, and you have to queue for a long time if you’re there in summer. But the views as you go up are worth it. Keep an eye out for brown bears as you go, because apparently there are lots living around there.

5. … and enjoy the views from the Brasov ‘Hollywood’ sign

When you reach the top and get out of the cable car, you’re deposited in a building with a café. This is not the end. You need to go out of the back and walk up the hill to get to the Hollywood sign and the viewing platform. This is where I took most of my photos, but you can go up even further through the forest for a slightly different angle.

You’ll be able to spot the different bits of Brasov laid out before you: the uber-German buildings around Piata Sfatului, the warren of traditional Romanian streets to the south, and the more modern flats and factories around the outside.

Just to warn you, it’s a very rubble-filled and uneven path up. I did it in white sandals because I would rather have a coordinated outfit than be comfortable, but if you’re a practical person who doesn’t like being in pain, I’d recommend trainers or some kind of boot.

Oh and there are plenty of other tourists to take your photo if you ask nicely. My top tip is to ask the youngest people around you. They always take at least three so that you end up with one that you don’t hate. Anyone older will only take one and it’ll be of their own thumb.

6. Have a vegan lunch at Simone 

Simone is a lovely little bistro serving local food with loads of veggie/vegan options. It was definitely my favourite place we ate lunch in Brasov.

The interior is gorgeous, with a lot of house plants knocking around and beautiful tiles. There’s a full menu or a menu of the day, and both have excellent options if you’re not a meat eater. Like many hip eateries in Romania, they served amazing flavoured water (for free) and fresh juices (more on them in #15 of this list). Considering the quality of the homemade food, it was really affordable – I mean, everywhere in Romania is relatively cheap for Western European tourists, but this kind of place could easily be more expensive and pretentious. Luckily, it’s not. Just very cosy and tasty.

7. Wander into hidden courtyards

I found this little beauty through a sort of tunnel off Piața Sfatului , and it’s an orthodox church tucked away out of sight within a small courtyard full of plants.

You can go inside the church for free to have a look around. It has lots of colourful frescos, but I think the doorway takes the prize for best photo opportunity. I love a good door.

8. Visit the Nicolae Titulescu park

For a city already surrounded by green mountains, Brasov greedily has more than its fair share of green spaces too.

The  Nicolae Titulescu park  is only small, but it ticks all the city park boxes: old men playing boules and/or cards, benches to sit and people watch from, a decent amount of trees to block out some of the city around it so that you feel a bit cut off from it. It’ll only take you a few minutes to walk through, but if you’re after somewhere to sit and eat an ice cream or something, it’s not a bad shout.

9. Admire the German-style architecture

If someone picked you up and plonked you down in Brasov, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’d landed in a town around Munich  or somewhere else in Bavaria. Not only are there are lot of German tourists (and thus the beerhouses to cater to them), but the architecture is very German.

In fact, Brasov used to be called Kronstadt (Crown City) and was built by Transylvanian Saxon knights who were originally from Germany. The crown name also inspired a bit of a running crown theme, and you can see the crown symbol on loads of things around Brasov, including the gate (see #9 of this list).

10. Try traditional food at Le Ceaun – one of the best things to do in Brasov for first-time visitors to Romania

If you’re after some traditional Romanian food, Le Ceaun is the place to go. I’d researched it on TripAdvisor before we went but our hotel receptionist and the free walking tour guide also recommended it. It has two branches in Brasov, but we went to the one in the main square.

It does soups (inside bread bowls), stews, salads and all that sort of thing. There are plenty of veggie options, such as the traditional mushroom sour soup. Even if it doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, it’s worth trying. I was pleasantly surprised by how much less ‘hearty’ some of it was compared with other Eastern European fodder, and also by how easy it is to avoid meat creeping into salads and sauces.

11. Experience Romanian café culture

I think we could have spent all day every day during our visit just visiting all Brasov’s cafés. Although a lot of them in the main square and along the main shopping street (Strada Republicii) are more geared towards tourists, you’ll still find loads that are full of locals – and even among tourists, a lot of them are Romanians from other places in the country. Some of the streets become one massive terrace with so many outdoor seating areas outside cafés.

I don’t know whether it was because it was August, but I got a real sense of outdoor living like in Italy and Portugal. People don’t sit round huddled up in their living rooms for a drink, they go out and sit outside a café to watch the world go by. It doesn’t stop when the sun goes down either, because most of them turn into bars at night. Again, it may have been the August effect, but at night they were HEAVING and you couldn’t get a seat anywhere.

For regular readers of this blog, yes I managed to find places serving English breakfast tea. I know you were worried.

12. Walk through the imposing Catherine’s Gate

As gates go, this Catherine’s one is pretty extra. It’s medieval and topped with some impressively Disney-esque turrets. It dates back to the 1500s and was built by the Tailors’ Guild to defend the town. You can still see some of the old town walls next to it. Sticking with the crown theme, there’s a motif of one so look out for that.

To the left of the gate from the angle in this photo, you’ll find a wooden eagle carved into a tree stump (obviously) and to the right, there’s the Schei Gate, which is for traffic and not as fancy.

13. Eat delicious Italian food at Dei Frati – one of the best things to do in Brasov for foodies

Dei Frati was hands-down the best evening meal we had in Brasov, and definitely the best atmosphere of anywhere I’ve eaten for a long time. You know when you imagine the perfect setting to sit outside and eat? Well this is it. Fairylights, cobblestones, flowers: everything you need for al fresco dining in a cute little side-street.

The food was incredible (and as a weird coincidence, served on the same turquoise plates we have at home!). Whenever somewhere does homemade pasta, I’m all over it. We shared a starter of bruschetta and then had a mixture of veggie and pescatarian pastas for our mains. Everything was exquisite and on a par with the homemade pasta we had in Rome .

I was about to burst but managed to find a small amount of room for dessert, although this did involve discreetly unbuttoning the top of my skirt. Such is life.

14. Visit the Black Church

Brasov’s Black Church is so called because it’s a church and it’s black. Well, it’s blackened. I’d say it’s more of a grubby brown colour. It’s from the 15th century but only became black in 1689, when the Habsburgs (or their forces, not the actual royals) came and burnt it.

On one of its pillars, you can see a statue of a boy leaning forwards like he’s dropped his phone off the edge. No one knows what he’s meant to be up to. But naturally there are plenty of guesses like he was the son of the priest in charge when the fire happened and he was on the roof but couldn’t escape. Others say he was involved in building the church and someone pushed him off.

Equally grim, you can see bullet holes in pillars inside the church (it’s 1.5 euro to get in). They’re not that old though. Apparently, they happened in 1989 during the revolution.

You can go to an organ recital on Tuesday evening if you’re into that kind of thing. I’m very much not.

15. Pretend to be healthier than you are with some juice

I was pleasantly surprised by how many cafés and restaurants had loads of different homemade fruit/vegetable juices on offer. This made me feel better about the insane amount of food I stuffed my face with throughout our trip.

The pic below is a delicious raspberry sour juice from #6 on this list, but we had brilliant homemade juice in loads of places and there seemed to be a lot of juice bars around in both cities we visited. I can’t find anything online that says Romania is particularly into juice (in fact, this article says that Romania has the lowest consumption of fruit juice in the EU?!) so maybe we just happened to go to particularly juicy places… Either way, it’s got to be better for me than ordering a(nother) G&T.

16. Squeeze down the tiny Rope Street

This sounds good doesn’t it? A really narrow street – one of the narrowest in Europe. What a cute little novelty eh. Wouldn’t it make a good photo, much like the square that I ALSO didn’t get a photo of? Yes. Yes, it would.

But unfortunately Rope Street was closed for renovation while we were there. Yup. But unlike the square being closed, I can’t really blame Jame Blunt for this. I mean, I’m going to anyway. Why must he torment me so?

Still, I’m going to keep Rope Street on this list because if you’re visiting Brasov, it’ll most likely be open and fully renovated by the time I’ve published this post and you can see what it’s all about even if I wasn’t allowed to.

17. Go Greek at Athanasios

Restaurant Athanasios  is an excellent choice if you’ve eaten too much over the course of your visit and want to do tapas-style sharing. The highlight for me was probably the mustardy olives, which sounds weird but was strangely delicious.

The decor inside this restaurant was gorgeous: all pale blue and distressed white wood. It’s actually tucked away down a little alleyway and isn’t somewhere I’d initially go for due to the photographs of food lining the alley’s walls (usually a warning sign of touristy muck) but we both really enjoyed it.

18. Do a day trip to Bran Castle (‘Dracula’s Castle’… sort of)

If you really want to see Bran Castle as one of your Romania must-dos, then you can get there from Brasov. HOWEVER, I’m not going to recommend it without a couple of warnings…

First off, the journey. Our lovely hotel receptionist did warn us it’d be ‘interesting’. You know this isn’t a luxury travel blog by any means. I’m 100% a Premier Inn and public transport kind of girl. But I struggled with spending 45 mins being boiled alive on a filthy, ancient bus. The fact it was August didn’t help, I know. It it was like an oven and far too many of our fellow tourists seemed to have not grasped the concept of ‘deodorant’. Hmm. Anyway, if you’re harder than me, the bus from terminal number 2 is at least cheap (8 LEI each).

Second, the town of Bran was full of tourist tat. That was a shame really, because Bran Castle itself was quite imposing and beautiful. It was also insanely busy (the photo below is proof that tactical angles are everything !). It was August, so crowds are to be expected, but I’ve heard from other travellers that it’s pretty chokka all year round.

So basically, if you’re planning on visiting the castle, go for it but with these things in mind. If you’re a big Dracula fan (and you know it’s not really the Dracula Castle) or if you just love beautiful castles, it’s worth seeing.

19. Treat yo’self at a very cute shop (Pebs Concept) – one of the best things to do in Brasov for shopaholics 

Pebs Concept was my favourite boutique shop in Brasov. Wherever we go, I like to hunt out little independent shops to buy myself some kind of treat to remember the holiday by.

Pebs had loads of really unusual handmade jewellery, but not the disgusting silver Celtic mess you sometimes find when somewhere says ‘handmade jewellery’. This was on-trend, delicate gold stuff that wouldn’t look out of place in Anthropologie or somewhere like that. It also sold unique homewares, photo frames, bags, cards, bathroom stuff, and art prints.

A pair of their earrings I had my eye on were 78 RON (about £15) so it wasn’t super cheap if you’re used to Primark prices like me, but it was worth it. If you think about it, you can spend more than that on the high street for earrings that later go green and that everyone else has too. Plus, you’re on holiday, which is the perfect excuse to treat yo’self.

20. Stay in affordable luxury at Antler Boutique Hotel

I’m going to wrap up this post on things to do in Brasov with where to stay to do all of the things.

We spent our trip at the utterly lovely Hotel Antler . I rarely rave about anywhere we stay (and they’ve not asked me to give them a shoutout or anything), but I would highly recommend it. Our room was stunning, with lots of antler-themed things going on. But the main thing I liked was coming into the hotel from the bustling, warm street and immediately being hit with a (not overpowering) scent of cleanliness and a general aura of calm. Something about it was very zen. The staff were really helpful without being overbearing. One girl even warned us about the crazy crowds at Bran Castle (which we should have paid more attention to!).

For only £48 per night, you can’t go wrong. I mean, I’ve paid double that for a barely-functioning Travelodge in the UK, so this was an absolute steal in my view.

Final thoughts on things to do in Brasov, Romania

Brasov is incredibly pretty, quaint and colourful – the perfect antidote to gritty, hip Bucharest .

It was also one of the most tourist-filled places I have ever been, which I was half expecting but was still an eye opener. It’s a huge tourist hub – just not so much for British tourists. It was full of German, French and Italian couples and groups of friends on their holidays. We didn’t meet any other British people, which was really nice. I like to avoid them at all costs.

It’s worth noting that the food is excellent in Brasov. That is the case for Bucharest too. Everything is made fresh and it was all incredible (oh and always worth the sometimes rather long wait!). Eating vegan, veggie or pescetarian requires some research, but that’s always the case. Once you’ve identified some options for each city, you’ll be impressed with how good they are.

Useful information: 20 things to do in Brasov, Romania

How to get there (and away).

We flew to Bucharest direct from Liverpool with BlueAir, which is Romania’s answer to Easyjet. It took about 3 hours 30 mins. After 3 days in Bucharest , we got the train to Brasov. This took about three hours. It cost about £20 for a return ticket. I must warn you though, it’s a pretty rudimentary train and we both got bitten by fleas on it.

Where to stay

We stayed at the gorgeous Hotel Antler,  which was about £48 a night. See #20 on this list for more information.

How to get around

Romania as a whole is car-heavy. But Brasov is walkable and the public transport (buses or trains) to nearby places is functional (if a bit of a state!). There are two main bus stations in the city: Autogara 1, at the train station, and Autogara 2, on the Avram Iancu Street, by the football stadium.

Not August! Although I didn’t die (it was close), melting in Romania’s insane summer heat probably wasn’t the best idea. We ended up going at this time for various reasons outside our control, but we knew it wouldn’t be ideal. We survived though and I understand that it was unusually hot, even for August. Like most city breaks though, spring or early autumn are the best for exploring. Brasov gets cold and snowy in winter so that wouldn’t be ideal.

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10 comments.

My first trip to Romania was shortly after the revolution in 1990 for humanitarian reasons. I travelled all over the country over a 10 year period, and Brasov was where I liked to go when I needed a more “western feel”. It was a beautiful quiet city then, and from your pictures the facade hasn’t changed much (the black church is cleaner). I have enjoyed your blog on both Bucharest and Brasov, in fact it has made me yearn to go back. My last visit was 2005, so I do think it’s time. Thank you for writing a great travel blog, and sharing the good and not so great things you encountered in Romania.

Hi Nancy, I recognise your name – we follow each other on Instagram don’t we? Nice to see you in the ‘real’ world. I would love to hear about your travels in Romania. Were you involved in orphanage work? I have been doing loads of reading on 90s Romania after getting some info while there. Glad you enjoyed the blogs and speak to you soon! C

Hi Caroline….you are correct for all questions. Feel free to email me or we can DM on Insta. Nancy S

Looks very interesting. Love your photos.

Ta mummy, not that you’re biased! xxx

Hi Caroline, thank you for sharing your experience in Brasov. I’m sure your tips are very helpful for those who want to visit this beautiful city. Like any other place, Brasov and Romania in general has its good parts and its not so good parts, but what’s important is that we always explore a new place with an open mind, which you did. Greetings from Romania.

Hello, glad you enjoyed it 🙂

Hi Caroline. Thanks for the great article and for promoting Brasov tourism. Hope that you will come back soon! Happy holidays!

Hi Caroline, This is a very nice post about my city 🙂 Some things I want to clarify; I hope you’re ok with them: 7 – Indeed, that is an Orthodox church but it’s specially built there because for many years, Romanians weren’t allowed to own buildings within the old city’s walls. Only Saxons had that right. Romanians lived in the Schei district, just outside the walls, towards the forest. You should go there too, on your next visit. So when finally Romanians were allowed to build inside the citadel, there were some conditions. One of them was to “hide” the church. That’s why you won’t see the facade from the main square. If you search carefully, you’ll also find another church nearby 🙂 12. Catherine’s Gate. It’s the only standing entrance gate to the old town and has four turrets for a reason: the four turrets on churches and gates like this meant that the community had the right to apply capital punishment. 18. Dracula’s castle… worth visiting but not many know that nearby, just across the park, there is the Bran National Museum which houses exhibits which were initially in the castle: beautiful old furniture, clothing, weapons and so on. It’s very cheap to go there and definitely worth visiting. About the trains from Bucharest to Brasov… you can try the private companies, Softrans, RegioCalatori ori Astra Transcarpatic. They have excellent service at the same prices as the CFR (Romanian Railways). When booking with CFR, try to avoid Regio ranking trains. They are pretty slow and stop in each station until Brasov. Choose IR (Inter Regio) or other rank, it’s worth the extra money. About the main square in Brasov being closed for the festival… luckily, we have a new mayor and he promised the festival won’t take place there anymore. So… we’re waiting for you 🙂 Oh, and the Rope Street is open now Here’s a list of more things to do in Brasov, maybe this will help you on you next visit [link dropping redacted]

Hi Robert, wow thank you so much for this comment! I’m glad to hear that Rope Street is back open and thank you for all the interesting information. It’s really nice to hear from someone who lives there! 🙂

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20 Things To Do in Brasov For The Perfect 2 Days

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Brasov was one of my favourite cities in Translyvania. It’s a little bigger than Sibiu and Sighisoara and there are plenty of things to do in Brasov to keep you busy. I’m going to share my 2 day Brasov itinerary and suggest you spend a similar amount of time. While I liked the smaller cities in Romania , I was happy to be somewhere bigger and more atmospheric. Brasov has all the charm of Transylvania from the scenic town square to the Old City walls. Two days in Brasov is enough time to see the sights including a castle belonging to a (fictional) bloodthirsty resident.

Read next: all my Romania travel tips!

BRASOV ESSENTIALS Accommodation: Booking.com / Hostelworld Tours & activities in Brasov: GetYourGuide Getting there: car hire ( Rentalcars.com ) / train ( CRF Calatori ) / bus ( Autogari ) / car pool ( BlaBlaCar ) Getting around: on foot

Where to stay in Brasov

Brasov is an affordable city with some real bargains to be found on accommodation. There are a few backpacker hostels as well as plenty of hotels, guesthouses and self-catering apartments.

Kron Studio Kalista : Well placed for exploring the main Brasov attractions, this period property with large bedroom apartments is a lovely place to stay. You’ll have a balcony, courtyard, en suite, kitchen area and cooking facilities. Shuttles from the airport can be arranged. Book here from €34 a night .

Winter option: Those who visit Brasov in the winter and love to ski should check out Teleferic Grand Hotel, a beautiful resort at the base of the mountain where you can ski to the door. Check availability when €60 per night .

Hostels in Brasov: The best places for backpackers to stay are Boemia Hostel Brasov and JugendStube Hostel . Here you can stay in dorms, use the social areas and meet other travellers. See all hostels in Brasov.

Browse all Brasov accommodation options on Booking.com .

Getting to Brasov

Brasov is the second-largest city in sleepy Transylvania. It’s easily accessible whether you’re coming from Bucharest, Timisoara, Sibiu, Sighisoara or elsewhere. Driving is the fastest option as Romanian trains are infamously slow. Use Rentalcars.com for the best prices on car hires. Train: Saying that, I completed my whole 2 week Romania trip by train with no problems – just remember to pack a good book. Buses are a little quicker but sometimes more expensive. Either way, you’ll find journeys for around €5. Book bus journeys on Autogari and trains on CFR Calatori .

Read next: How to plan the perfect road trip in Romania

Things to do in Brasov

There are plenty of activities in Brasov from exploring the history and ancient architecture, hiking up to the Brasov sign and visiting ‘Dracula’s Castle’. I spent my first day in Braşov exploring the Old Town and tucking into some tasty local food (actually, breakfast wasn’t that local, soz). You can easily see Braşov in a day before spending your second day on a day trip to Dracula’s Castle. Here’s what to do in Brasov, Romania…

1. Brunch at Le Birou Bistro

What better way to begin your day than with brunch? La Birou Bistro was the best restaurant I found in Brasov, apart from La Ceaun which you’ll hear about later. Brunch fans will love breakfast buns served at La Birou. I opted for halloumi but smoked salmon is also an option. With indoor and outside seating, why not spend a few hours sitting in the sunshine drinking coffee? Brasov isn’t a city that requires a fast-paced itinerary so you’ll have time to linger and enjoy yourself.

2. Take a free walking tour

I love a free walking tour as I always find the guides to be funny and engaging. This Brasov sightseeing tour was great, although prepare for group sizes to be massive during the summer months. Luckily, our guide had a mic so it was easy to hear her even in a group of 30. The Walkabout free walking tour runs at 10am and 6pm, departing from the fountain in Piata Sfatului (Council Square). It’s a relatively long tour lasting 2 hours so prepare for a late dinner if you choose the 6pm tour. The following stops are made on the free walking tour but they’re also easy to visit independently. The tour was great for info and facts but a bit restrictive if you want to spend more time at the Brasov attractions. If somewhere appeals to you, come back the next day to explore it fully.

3. Council Square (Piata Sfatului)

There’s no way you’ll miss Council Square; you’ll walk through it countless times while spending 2 days in Brasov. It’s an atmospheric place full of cafes and markets during the summer months and Christmas markets in the winter. It wasn’t always such a relaxed and fun place: the Council Square was once used for public floggings and executions. Our tour guide told us Romania’s last execution was in 1989 of Nicolae Ceausescu for his crimes against the Romanian citizens during his Communist rule. Nowadays, Romania’s difficult history is behind it. In summer weather, one of the best things to do in Brasov is sit in the main square with a pint or an ice cream and watch the world go by.

4. Catherine’s Tower

Built in 1559 as an entrance to Brasov’s City Walls, this was once the only entrance Romanians could use to travel in and out of their city. The four turrets around the main one are no accident: this was an old-fashioned indication that the keepers of the city weren’t afraid to execute those who broke the law. How’s that for a cautionary tale? There isn’t much to do at Catherine’s Gate apart from take a look. However, in the summer, outdoor cinemas are held so check what’s on (I believe they show a mix of Romanian and English language films).

5. Walk Romania’s smallest street

Visiting Rope Street is a popular thing to do in Brasov because it holds an impressive title: the smallest alleyway in the country and one of the smallest in Europe . This modest cobbled alleyway is famed for its measurements: 111cm at its thinnest point. Its purpose? Allowing thoroughfare to firefighters accessing the main streets on either side. You can stroll through the skinny street independently or as part of a walking tour. Don’t forget to check out…

6. Rope Street Museum

For a museum that’s quick, colourful and free, spend 20 minutes here. There’s colourful artwork on display as well as a cafe where you can grab a coffee and people-watch at the exit of Rope Street.

7. Romania’s oldest school

Beside Biserica Sfântul Nicolae (Brasov’s Orthodox Church) is Romania’s oldest school and a museum to go with it. I stopped by briefly with the walking tour but wasn’t interested enough to go back a second time. If it sounds up your street, you can revisit during your 2 days in Brasov, going inside the church and checking out the museum.

8. Walk through the forest to the White & Black Towers

For a relaxed thing to do in Brasov, take a gentle walk through the forest. Set your maps to Turnul Alb (White Tower). It’s not hard to find its counterpart nearby, Turnul Negru (Black Tower). One of the best things to see in Brasov is the view from this point. Spend a while soaking up the views and snapping photos.

9. The Black Church (Biserica Neagra)

Although I went inside the famous Black Church (pictured above), it was really just another church to me. Maybe I’d spent too long in Eastern Europe. Still, it’s worth a visit since it’s one of Brasov’s prominent features. With 600 years of history, it’s survived Ottoman and Tarter armies and, like most buildings in Europe it seems, been destroyed by a fire at least once. Note that it’s closed to visitors on Mondays.

10. Take the cable car to the Braşov sign

This is Brasov’s answer to the Hollywood sign! Locals claim it’s the better version due to the fact you can go behind it. The cable car costs 16 RON return. Make sure to leave enough time because queues can get very long in the summer. It runs from 9.30am-5.30pm but is closed on Sunday mornings and all day Monday.

11. Hiking Tampa Mountain

One of the best things to do in Brasov for hikers is summiting Tampa Mountain to reach the Brasov sign . Although I took the cable car, I hear this is a fun Brasov activity; you just need sturdy shoes with good grip. The hike to the top should take about 1 hour. Once you get to the top, there are several trails if you wish to continue hiking. But be sure not to wander too far from the path: there are wild boars and possibly even bears around.

12. Dinner at La Ceaun

End your day of Brasov sightseeing with hearty Romanian fare. If you Google the best places to eat in Brasov , you will see La Ceaun crop up. My hostel owner and walking tour guide both recommended it and I wasn’t disappointed. The duck with red cabbage and the fried pork with polenta and garlic sauce were both amazing. The bill came to 50 RON per person including a beer, not bad at all!

13. Finish with papanasi

What to do in Brasov for foodies? Eat papanasi, of course! Sure, kurtoskalacs are tasty but they’re not unique to Romania unlike these bready doughnuts drenched in blackcurrant jam and a ‘cheese’ sauce which tastes like liquid cheesecake. If that weren’t calorific enough, these delicacies can only be ordered in servings of two and each one is topped with a mini fried doughnut. Oh, Romania, you’ll be the death of me but I love you for it!

14. Bran Castle ( Dracula’s Castle)

Visiting Dracula’s Castle is easily one of the best things to do around Brasov. It’s 30km from the city and takes about 30 minutes to arrive by road. Although Bram Stoker never actually visited, it’s the fictional setting for his Dracula novel based on the real-life Romanian ruler, Vlad Tepes. Due to the gruesome ways he defeated his enemies, he earned the nickname ‘ Vlad the Impaler’. Not someone you’d want to mess with!

Read next: Brasov to Bran Castle – visiting Dracula’s Castle

Visiting Dracula’s Castle is easy. You can drive, take an affordable day tour from Brasov , or visit by public bus (all details in the guide above). Bran Castle gets very crowded during weekends and summer months so, if possible, visit early during these times.

15. Rasnov Citadel

Rasnov Citadel lies halfway between Brasov and Bran Castle. It’s easy to combine Bran and Rasnov into the same day. The town’s name is emblazoned on the hillside so you can hardly miss it. Rasnov Fortress is bigger than Bran Castle and offers spectacular views over the surrounding countryside. This fortress of protection in the Carpathian Mountains dates back to the 1300s when it was built to protect townspeople from the invading Tarters. From Rasnov town, hike up the hill or take the cable car. Entry is 12 RON (6 for students). I visited Rasnov by public bus on the way back from Bran Castle. However, you can also take a Bran & Rasnov tour from Brasov .

16. Try Kurtoskalacs

Chimney cake is a fried dough dessert popular in Eastern Europe, commonly served hollow with nuts, chocolate or grated coconut. The one I ate in Brasov’s main square was absolutely enormous and could probably have fed a family of four, yet I ate it all to myself. YOLO. For more kurtoskalacs love, read my Prague food guide , Bratislava food guide and Budapest food guide ! Finished these things to do in Brasov? Here are a few days trips that might be of interest:

17. Peles Castle (day trip)

If Bran and Rasnov didn’t satisfy your castle quota, take a trip to Peles Castle. Although it’s a 1.5 hour drive from Brasov, it’s worth it to explore Romania’s most beautiful castle (at least according to some!). Nestled in the Carpathian Mountains near the town of Sinaia, this Neo-Renaissance castle was built for the Romanian Royal Family. It’s well preserved inside and out, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. Take a castles day tour (Bran, Rasnov and Peles) from Brasov .

18. Transfagarasan Highway (day trip)

It’s possible to visit Romania’s most famous road as a day trip from Brasov. The beauty of this windy road zigzagging through the mountains is indescribable. Built on the orders of ex-dictator, Nicolae Ceausescu, the Transfagarasan Highway has become one of the most photographed places in Romania, as well as a pilgrimage for travellers looking for fun things to do from Brasov. Take a Transfagarasan Highway day tour from Brasov incorporating other highlights of the region like Balea Lac and waterfall, Lake Vidraru, Curtea de Argeș Monastery and Poienari Castle.

19. Sibiu (day trip)

Although I stayed overnight in Sibiu and spend two full days there, you can see the best of this tiny Transylvanian town in just one day. Sibiu is a 2.5-hour drive from Brasov so it’s a long day trip but doable if you only have a day to spare. You can book a Sibiu day tour to transport you there and back with time to explore this picturesque medieval settlement. Aside from wandering the quaint squares, venturing inside the cathedral and climbing the Council Tower for panoramic views, the highlight might be the eerie ‘houses with eyes’. Although designed with ventilation in mind, these colourful homes give the distinct impression they’re watching you…

20. Sighișoara (day trip)

If you’ve run out of things to do in Brasov, another worthwhile day trip is to Sighișoara, 1.5 hours away. Sighișoara is much smaller than Sibiu and although there’s less to do, this isn’t a problem if you’re just visiting for a day. Few places embody a traditional Transylvanian village better. In fact, Sighișoara’s 12th-century walled Old Town is now a UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. There are plenty of quaint things to do in Sighișoara although I’d advise skipping Casa Vlad, t he touristy birthplace of Dracula. Book a Sighisoara day tour from Brasov .

Brasov itinerary for 2 days

Day 1: Start with brunch at Le Birou Bistro before boarding the cable car (or hiking) to the Brasov sign at Tampa Mountain. For the afternoon, tour the historical Brasov attractions including Council Square, Catherine’s Tower, Rope Street and the White & Black Towers. Finish with dinner at La Ceaun. Day 2: Continue your Brasov sightseeing by visiting a few of Romania’s spectacular castles. At a minimum, visit Bran Castle and Rasnov Citadel by car, organised day tour or public bus. For the whole shebang, take a 3 castle trip including Peles . Extra days: Consider day trips to Transfagarasan Highway, Sighișoara or Sibiu.

I hope you enjoyed these Brasov things to do!

Check out my other Romania blogs:

• The ultimate Romania road trip itinerary
• Things to do in Timisoara
• 18 Romania travel tips
• Bucharest hidden gems not to miss

More Europe blogs:

• How to spend a day in Bratislava, Slovakia
• How to spend 2 days in Sofia, Bulgaria
• Visiting Rila Lakes, Bulgaria
• Visiting Rila Monastery from Sofia, Bulgaria
• What to eat in Prague
• What to eat in Budapest
• Complete 3 day Budapest itinerary

See you next time for more adventures,

For more travel content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

Ps. Liked my 2 day Brasov itinerary? Pin it for later!

TRUSTED RESOURCES FOR VISITING ROMANIA Getting around by air – I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Driving in Europe – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals in European countries (and all around the world). For trains , use CRF Calatori to search times and book tickets. For buses , book at Autogari . To catch buses in and out of Romania (from Bucharest and Timisoara), I use FlixBus . Find journeys between European countries from €1!  For hotels and self-catering apartments, I use Booking.com . You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse tours and activities on GetYourGuide . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and budget tips from my 10+ years on the road!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

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Home » Travel Guides » Romania » 15 Best Things to Do in Brașov (Romania)

15 Best Things to Do in Brașov (Romania)

If this intoxicating city in the Southern Carpathians has a German air there’s a good reason. In the Middle Ages Brașov was developed and settled by Saxons invited to settle here by Hungarian Kings. Tax exemptions allowed German merchants to build their fortunes, trading with both Western Europe and the Ottoman Empire which was on Brașov’s doorstep. That explains the grandeur of Council Square in the centre, as well as the Gothic Church for the city’s Lutheran congregation.

The charming Old Town is set off by mountainous landscapes, with one dominating peak, Mount Tâmpa, linked by cable car, while there’s also a up-and-coming winter sport resort nearby at Poiana Brașov.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Brașov :

1. Piața Sfatului (Council Square)

A place of trade and fairs from the middle of the 14th century, now this wide open space is somewhere to pause and look south to the vast bulk of Mount Tâmpa.

The plaza is traced by historic painted facades of houses once belonging to the city’s guilds, as well as monuments like the Black Church and the Orthodox Cathedral.

Many of the houses are now restaurants and cafes with terraces sprawling onto the square.

On the south side is the arcaded Merchants’ House from the mid-16th century, which used to be a market building and has been converted into a shopping arcade.

A great time to be on Council Square is in December for the Christmas Market, when everything is in lights and there’s an enormous tree.

2. Biserica Neagră (Black Church)

Seen as one of Eastern Europe’s greatest works of Gothic architecture, the Black Church was constructed by Brașov’s German community during the 15th century.

In the 16th century Lutheran services took the place of Catholic ones, a switch that has persisted to this day.

Just outside is a statue of Johannes Honter, the Transylvanian Saxon humanist who brought Lutheranism to the region.

Don’t miss the 15th-century sculpture on the northern facade, particularly the bas-relief of Jesus in the Second Temple of Jerusalem.

And from the same period inside are brocaded vestments, chalices, a baptismal font and a fresco depicting the Annunciation.

3. Casa Sfatului (Council Hall)

Hard to miss on Council Square is the 15th-century town hall, which actually started life as a Medieval watchtower.

The town hall went up in the 15th century, and had to be modified because of natural calamities and then a Habsburg invasion in the 1600s, leaving it with a blend of earlier Gothic and later Baroque architecture.

Since the 1950s the Council Hall has hosted the County Museum of History, which has an assortment of Iron Age tools, Roman items from nearby forts, Medieval ceramics, antique weapons, pharmaceutical artefacts, traditional handicrafts, coins and more.

4. Mount Tâmpa

Rising 400 metres over the south of the Old Town, to a maximum height of 960, the wedge-like Mount Tâmpa is an ever-present part of Brașov’s landscape.

Keen walkers will be itching to conquer this forest-covered limestone peak, once defended by a 13th-century Teutonic citadel and with distant views of the Burzenland region at the top.

The Knights’ Road, the oldest of many routes to the summit, goes back to the days of the citadel and snakes past old crumbling walls.

The mountain is also a nature reserve, providing a habitat for gray wolves, golden eagles, brown bears and Eurasian lynxes.

And if the slopes look a bit too demanding there’s always a cable car, shuttling to the top in three minutes and with a panoramic restaurant at its upper station.

5. Bastionul Țesătorilor (Weavers’ Bastion)

Under Mount Tâmpa on the south side of the Old Town is the most complete remnant of Brașov’s old fortifications.

In the 1500s the city’s guilds were responsible for looking after the city defences, and this bastion was in the hands of the weavers, keeping attackers at bay while also giving the weavers somewhere to store their wares.

The earliest architecture here is from the 1420s and an extra floor was added in the second half of the 16th century.

There are two guard towers, and indomitable walls with openings for cannons and throwing oil at would-be attackers.

The museum within has details about the Weavers’ Guild, Ottoman weapons, guns and a Hungarian-era scale model from 1896, depicting the city as it would have looked in 1600.

6. Strada Republicii

Setting off diagonally from Council Square is Brașov’s lively main street, which is completely pedestrianised.

Over the last decade Strada Republicii has been given a facelift, and nearly all of the turn-of-the-century facades have been restored.

As you go you’ll see passageways shooting off, leading onto beautiful hidden courtyards.

Keep your eyes peeled for early-20th-century German inscriptions on some of the buildings.

In summer there’s an almost unbroken line of bar and restaurant terraces so there’s no excuse not to linger for a few minutes and watch the crowds.

7. Prima Școală Românească (First Romanian School)

In the village-like Șchei District on Brașov’s southwestern outskirts is a site of real value for Romanian culture.

Here in the grounds of the 16th-century Church of St Nicholas (Biserica Sfântul Nicolae) is the first school ever to teach courses in Romanian.

These first took place in 1583 and the school was in use all the way up to 1941, before becoming a museum not long after the war.

There are more than 4,000 books and 30,000 historic documents at the museum, which also has Romania’s first printing press.

Guided by an elderly caretaker, you’ll get to see the first Romanian bible, as well as volumes of valuable first editions.

The oldest document of all is a manuscript dating to the 11th century.

8. Synagogue

There has been a Jewish community in Brașov since 1807 when its first members were permitted to settle in the city.

By the start of the Second World War the community had grown to more than 4,000, a far cry from the 230 residents today.

Brașov’s Orthodox Synagogue fell victim to Ion Antonescu’s dictatorship in the Second World War, but the Neolog Synagogue is still here.

With a neo-Moorish and neo-Byzantine design and impressive scale, the building testifies to the vitality of Brașov’s Jewish population when it was built at the turn of the century.

The architect was the Hungarian Lipót Baumhorn who designed more than 20 synagogues in Austria-Hungary.

9. Strada Sforii (Rope Street)

A quirky detour, Strada Sforii not far from the Șchei Gate is one of the narrowest streets in Europe.

At a minimum of 111 centimetres, this 80-metre passageway dates back to the 1600s and is only beaten for narrowness by Spreuerhofstraße in Reutlingen, Germany and Parliament Street in Exeter, England.

It’s impossible to spread your arms as you squeeze down this shadowy passage, so you won’t be shocked that Strada Sforii wasn’t originally designed for everyday use, but as a route for fire-fighters in the Old Town.

10. Bran Castle

A day trip not to be missed from Brașov, Bran Castle is under half an hour to the southwest.

This 14th-century fortress is often connected to Count Dracula and his real life 15th-century inspiration Vlad the Impaler.

And while this isn’t strictly true as Vlad the Impaler didn’t have much to do with the castle, the true history of the building is exciting enough.

A romantic tangle of towers built onto a rocky promontory over a gorge, it was a bulwark against the Ottoman Empire in the late Middle Ages and was controlled by a succession of Hungarian Kings.

When Transylvania was ceded to Romania after the First World War it became a favourite residence for Marie of Romania, and the museum inside has many of the queen’s possessions.

Recommended tour : Dracula Castle & Brasov: Private Tour

11. Pietrele lui Solomon (Solomon’s Rocks)

In the southwestern Șchei district on a tributary of the Șcheiu River you’ll come to a strange karst formation.

Divided in two by a stream is a pair of vast, sheer rocks, steeped in local folk tales about a Hungarian king or Solomonars, dragon-riding wizards who control the rain.

At the start of the 20th century excavations on the site found vestiges of a fortress that had been manned since Neolithic times.

Today it’s a favoured picnic and barbecue spot, while climbers are a common slight on the vertiginous slopes.

And from here, a bike trail weaves through the mountains to the nearby ski resort of Poiana Brașov.

12. Turnul Alb (White Tower)

On a spur defending the west side of the Old Town is the semicircular White Tower, which forms a pair with the nearby Black Tower.

You’ll have no trouble identifying this bright whitewashed bastion on its high perch from Council Square.

Raised in the last decades of the 15th-century this structure was maintained by Brașov’s tile-makers’ guild and at five storeys was the tallest of all the city defences.

To keep would-be attackers out, its entrance was several metres from the ground and needed a ladder.

There’s a wooden staircase inside, which you can climb to stand behind the crenellations and view the Old Town against the backdrop of Mount Tâmpa.

13. Poiana Brașov

From mid-November to mid-March the peaks around Brașov are coated with a permanent layer of snow.

But it’s only recently that this snow-sure climate has been harnessed for winter sports.

Poiana Brașov is a ski resort under 15 kilometres from the city proper that has gone through big investment in the 2010s, expanding its skiable area to 80 hectares and creating 24 kilometres of pistes.

Nearly all of its slopes now have snow-making facilities, ensuring a 120-day season, while the nos.

20 and 100 buses provide quick transfers from the centre of Brașov to the resort.

In warmer weather the four mountains encircling Poiana Brașov are a hiker’s dream, with sweeping meadow, lofty vantage points and many hectares of fresh oak and hazel forest.

14. Libearty Bear Sanctuary

Fair to say that bears haven’t always been well-treated in Central Romania.

But after the country joined the EU in 2007 its zoos became subject to European laws for animal husbandry.

As many smaller zoos couldn’t comply with these new standards, this sanctuary not far southwest of Brașov swelled with newly rescued inhabitants.

The Libearty Bear Sanctuary has 70 European brown bears living in 27 hectares of enclosures in deciduous woodland, providing ample tree cover, space to hibernate and lots of water in the form of streams and pools.

15. Parc Aventura

On Brașov’s southeast outskirts is a family-oriented attraction with ladders, rope nets, bridges and zip-lines between trees.

Children under eight years old can take part on four purple courses, on which they’ll be permanently attached by carabiner to a safety rope for maximum security.

Older climbers can tackle eleven different courses, ranging in difficulty from yellow for beginners to a single black route for experts who need an extra hit of adrenalin.

And if that’s not enough, there are also side activities like a 300-metre zip-line crossing a lake, and a literal leap of faith from a height of 16 metres.

15 Best Things to Do in Brașov (Romania):

• Piața Sfatului (Council Square)
• Biserica Neagră (Black Church)
• Casa Sfatului (Council Hall)
• Mount Tâmpa
• Bastionul Țesătorilor (Weavers' Bastion)
• Strada Republicii
• Prima Școală Românească (First Romanian School)
• Strada Sforii (Rope Street)
• Bran Castle
• Pietrele lui Solomon (Solomon's Rocks)
• Turnul Alb (White Tower)
• Poiana Brașov
• Libearty Bear Sanctuary
• Parc Aventura

Brașov, Romania: 12 Top Things to Do, Map & Insider Tips for Your Visit

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: April 17, 2023

Visiting Brașov in Romania and wondering what are the best things to see and do in Brasov ? This guide with insider tips and recommendations will help you get a better idea of what to expect and plan a more memorable trip.

Brasov (pronounced as bra-shov ) is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe and one of the most beautiful cities to visit in Romania . It’s also a lively city that has it all: history, art, culture, fantastic architecture, as well as lots of nice cafes and restaurants. Brasov is also home to some of Europe’s narrowest streets – always fun to explore!

Brasov is not only a charismatic destination but also an affordable one. It’s easy to find really nice accommodation in the city center or pamper your tastebuds with delicious food in some of the best restaurants without breaking the bank. See our recommendations on where to stay and where to eat in Brasov at the bottom of this guide!

Good to know: The good news for tourists is that Brasov is so compact that you can see all the main sights in just a few hours. Furthermore, Romania’s top attraction, Bran Castle , aka Dracula Castle , is located just nearby. So many popular tours from Bucharest visit both – the city and the castle – making it easy for you to see several of Romania’s top destinations in just 1 day.

At the same time, Brasov has a lot to offer for those who are planning a longer visit as well! One of Transylvania’s gems , Brasov is surrounded by lush green mountains. So in addition to the best sights and attractions in Brasov city itself, it’s a good base for beautiful nature destinations nearby. In summer, you can go hiking in the Bucegi mountains. And in winter, you’ll find lots of Romania’s most famous ski resorts nearby.

Whether you are visiting Brasov from Bucharest for a day or planning a longer visit, there are some top places to see and some absolute-best things to do in Brasov that you really shouldn’t miss . We cover all the musts in this guide, coupled with tips and recommendations by a local.

To make it easier to plan your time, we also created a map of Brasov attractions . As you can see, all the best places are located really close to each other.

Take a look!

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

PRO TIP: If you are visiting Brasov for the first time and/or have limited time, book a city tour with a local guide . This is the best way to see the main tourist attractions in Brasov in just 3 hours. Furthermore, it will allow you to understand the history of the city and appreciate the sights and their significance. These tours are really good!

VISITING BRASOV FROM BUCHAREST: If you are planning to visit Brasov from Bucharest and are getting overwhelmed with all the tour options, check out this day trip . It has one of the most diverse itineraries allowing you to get a good taste of what Transylvania is about. Among others, you’ll see Dracula Castle, Peles Castle, and Brasov.

• BEST things to do
• When to visit
• Getting to Brasov

Best tours to Brasov from Bucharest

• Where to eat
• Where to stay

These are the TOP attractions & things to do in Brasov for first-time visitors:

1. Council Square

Brasov’s Council Square (Piața Sfatului) is the main town square in Brasov. This is the one place you have to see in Brasov, even if you are just passing by. True, it would be difficult to miss, as almost all tourist attractions in the city are within walking distance from here.

Nowadays the heart of Brasov, full of energy and good vibes, this square used to be a marketplace where traders from all over the area gathered to sell their produce. Crammed with restaurants, cafe terraces, and small artisan shops, the Council Square is a nice place to just sit down and enjoy watching the passers-by. 

In the center of the square, there’s a building called the House of the Council (Casa Sfatului) . This is the former Town Hall of Brasov that now houses the museum of the city. Here, you can see some interesting artifacts from the rising of Brasov (in 1987, two years before the Revolution) when people from factories planted seeds against communist oppression. Or, you can also observe a sports collection of the most famous Romanian sportspeople who made history at the Olympics.

The Council Square is lined with traditional colorful buildings. In the middle, there is also a fountain, which is a popular place for locals to meet and where you can encounter people selling balloons or flowers. The atmosphere here is very cozy!

TIP: Have a drink or coffee at one of the terraces with a view from the square and enjoy the beautiful view!

2. Old Town

In addition to the colored houses around Council Square, be sure to simply take a walk through the Old Town of Brasov . It’s one of the best ways to experience the city!

A walk on the cobbled lanes recalls old times. Every house in the area has its own story. There are also plenty of restaurants here (see our restaurant recommendations below).

For the best experience, take the narrow alleys that start from the main square and just explore the labyrinth of old streets . Downtown Brasov is quite compact and there are lots of nice pedestrian areas with boutique shops and also places selling traditional handmade jewelry.  

As you enlarge the downtown circle, you’ll walk on Mureșenilor Street . Emperor Franz Joseph was accommodated at the pink palace here. Whereas the blue one offered shelter to the man who wrote the lyrics for the Romanian national anthem, etc. With more time (and if interested), you could also visit Casa Mureșenilor, which now houses a museum.

You can’t really miss Republicii Street , which is one of the main pedestrian streets in Brasov. In the summer, the whole street turns into one big restaurant terrace, with a great atmosphere, but also higher prices than in the other less touristy parts of the city.

Just as the entire area, Brasov also has its share of fortifications . The city was one of the main Transylvanian defense citadels. This 3km encircling was erected between the 14-17th centuries and was meant to protect the city with tall walls, water ditches, and 27 towers.

And while most of this is now gone, you can still see several well-preserved sites that speak about the history of the area. Some of these are the Black Tower , the White Tower , Graft Bastion , Catherine’s Gate , Weavers’ Bastion , all reachable within walking distance from downtown. You can read about all these places further below and – depending on how much time you have in Brasov – decide which ones you want to visit.

3. Tampa Hill & BRASOV Sign

Visiting Tampa Hill with a Hollywood-like sign of BRASOV is one of the most popular things to do in Brasov. From the top, you can enjoy the magnificent view of the city and the surroundings.

It’s located just a short walk from Council Square and other attractions in the Old Town, so very simple to visit. You can go up the mountain on foot by taking one of the hiking trails, but you do need sensible walking shoes and even the shortest route takes at least 1 hour. Or – make it easy for yourself – and simply use the cable car . It runs daily between 9.30 AM and 5 PM and the ticket costs just a few euros. The journey takes just 2-3 minutes.

This bird’s eye view from Tampa Hill is probably the best viewpoint in Brasov . However, it can get quite busy here, with long queues at the cable car during holidays and weekends, especially in summer.

TIP: If you are short on time and it’s very busy, don’t waste your time queuing – there are better things to do in Brasov than stand in line for an hour or two! Instead, you could try other observation points, like walking on Brediceanu street or going up to one of the White or Black Towers (more about these places below). 

Interesting fact: Brasov has many names (in Romanian, German, or Hungarian). In addition, during the communist period between 1950 and 1960, the city changed its name to Orașul Stalin (Stalin City). As if that wasn’t enough, a member of the communist party – in order to impress the leaders – came with a ‘brilliant’ idea of cutting down the trees from Tampa Hill in the shape of the letters that make up the name STALIN. Nowadays, during winter, you can still sometimes distinguish the remaining letters ‘ALIN’.

4. Black Church

The Black Church ( Biserica Neagră) of Brasov has a history that goes back almost 600 years. It was built by the Saxons (the name of the German inhabitants from the area) and today is one of the most important houses of worship of the Lutheran religion. 

Interesting fact: One of the most remarkable Gothic monuments in the area, the church was initially named Saint Mary, according to the patron saint of the city. Its current name was given after a fire that devastated Brasov in the 17th century. The church was seriously damaged and parts of it burnt down, leaving it black. The reconstruction took almost 100 years, and, in the process, Baroque elements were added to the church.

Beautiful and proud on the outside, the church is also worth seeing inside! Black Church houses the biggest mechanical organ in Romania and an impressive collection of carpets .

The organ was built in Berlin and can delight visitors with its wonderful sound during traditional concerts. If you look up, your gaze will be caught by the one of world’s largest collections of Anatolian carpets, most of which reached Brasov through the guilds or as donations from the inhabitants.

The pulpit, together with the statues of the Evangelists are some of the oldest pieces in the church. And here you can also see the old coat of arms of the city.

TIP: If possible, visit the church during a concert so that you can hear its unique organ play. This will make the whole experience more memorable!

5. Rope Street

Rope Street (Strada Sforii) is probably the most photographed street in Brasov. One of the narrowest streets in Eastern Europe, Strada Sforii is 80 meters long and just 1.11 – 1.35 meters wide (43 – 53 inches).

In medieval times, this very narrow street served as an access passage for firefighters. But since Romanians love legends, of course, there’s a story about this street too.

According to an old legend, lovers who didn’t have the blessing of their family used to meet on Rope Street to kiss. It’s believed that lovers making out on Rope Street will stay together forever. So if you are visiting Brasov with your significant other, you know what you have to do! 🙂

A few years ago, the municipality of Brasov started a project that would turn this tiny street into a street-art gallery. However, the street is full of lots of personal impressions of passers-by.

This is one of tourists’ favorites, so check it out! It’s also one of the favorite Instagram spots in Brasov, so it can get busy. Either way, it’s a good opportunity for a special photo.

6. Graft Bastion and the White Tower

Graft Bastion (Bastionul Graft) and the White Tower (Turnul Alb) stand at the site of some of the oldest constructions in Brasov. The history of this area goes back to the 14th century when the excess water that was crossing the streets of the medieval fortress was drifted through an artificial canal, called a graft .

The Graft Bastion itself was built later to connect the soldiers to the White Tower. The White Tower is the second defense tower of Brasov, built in the late 15th century. Being the tallest tower of the kind, it got its name from the white lime that covers it.

Built with the purpose of protection, the walls are constructed from brick and stone, while on the inside there are five galleries on five levels. From the balconies of the tower, hot wax and stones were thrown over to the enemy.

Back then, the tower was in charge of the guilds and remained so for a long time. Unfortunately, the huge fire that devastated the Black Church in 1689, hit the tower as well, and it’s been reconstructed. The most recent renovations date from 2003-2004 and the tower now houses a museum.

TIP: Go up to the tower for the beautiful panorama. You have to climb a few stairs on Warthe Hill so good walking shoes are recommended, but it’s well worth it. From here, you have a nice view of the Tampa Hill and BRASOV letters as well.

7. Black Tower

In the vicinity of the White Tower, you can see one of the four observation towers of Brasov. It is called the Black Tower (Turnul Negru) , although it’s a stone tower in a light grey color. Its name comes from the fire that dramatically darkened its walls, but there’s no sign of that today anymore.

The Black Tower was supposed to shut out the enemies from the city walls, but it played another role as well. During the 1756 plague epidemic, this tower served as a shelter for the guardians who prevented new visitors from entering the city.  

The white and black towers are close to each other and are amongst the most popular places to see in Brasov. Situated on a hill, they both offer amazing views over the city.

8. Catherine’s Gate 

Catherine’s Gate (Poarta Ecaterinei) is another Brasov landmark that’s well worth seeing. With its four turrets, it looks as if it were from a Disney movie!

The original gate was built for defensive purposes in the 16th century by the Tailors’ guild and it was the only entrance gate for the Romanians living in the neighborhood Schei. This gate played an important role because during the Saxon reign, Romanians were not allowed to have any property inside the fortress, plus they had to pay a toll whenever they entered the gate to sell their produce. 

Just as in most other Transylvanian towns, the nice turrets have a scary significance. They mean that the town had the right to decide on capital punishment. 

Just near Catherine’s Gate, there is another city gate – Șchei Gate. There’s also a small park here with some statues and a playground for kids.

9. Weavers’ Bastion

The Weavers’ Bastion (Bastionul Țesătorilor) is a remarkable building erected by the weavers (guild) in the 15-16th centuries. The bastion was later abandoned and then restored in the mid-20th century when it was also turned into a museum.

The museum showcases old weapons and weavers’ products, but the displays are somewhat old and translations are lacking.

Still, one of the most interesting landmarks in Brasov, Weavers’ Bastion is a good place to visit and well worth it. Even if just to see the building from its inner courtyard.

Because of its fabulous acoustic, the Bastion sometimes serves as a concert hall. There used to be concerts and theatre plays here, but with the pandemic, these events became scarcer. Hopefully one day, the bastion shines again. 

10. Beth Israel Synagogue

Just near Rope Street, you can find the Beth Israel Synagogue (Sinagoga Beit Israel Brașov) . With its bright red exterior and decorative white interior, it’s considered one of the most beautiful synagogues in Eastern Europe.

Built in the 19th century, the Synagogue has some interesting architectural elements, a mix of a Neo-Gothic style with some Moorish details. It still plays a very important role in maintaining the Jewish tradition in Brasov. There’s a small Holocaust Memorial here as well.

There’s a small fee to enter the Synagogue of Brasov, or you can just see it from the outside. It’s well worth going inside though, so take a look!

11. Schei Quarter, First Romanian School & St Nicholas Church

A short walk from the Old City, you’ll find a local neighborhood called Schei (Scheii Brasovului) . During the Saxon reign in the 13-16th centuries, Romanians weren’t permitted to live inside Brașov’s fortified city walls, so they lived here. Today, this is a quaint, charming, part of the city with narrow cobbled streets and colorful buildings.

One of the must-sees here is the First Romanian School Museum (Muzeul Prima Școală Românească) . This is the site where the first lessons were given in Romanian. The first Romanian books were also printed here. Today, it’s a museum where you can see a traditional classroom and learn some fascinating history. Well worth a visit, but even more so if you can do it with a guide.

The school is located in the courtyard of Saint Nicholas Orthodox Church ( Biserica Ortodoxa Sfantul Nicolae ) , which is another beautiful place to visit in Brasov. In addition to the beautiful exterior, inside, you can also see some interesting frescoes and icons.

12. Day Trips & Tours from Brasov

In addition to all the best places to see in Brasov, there are also some nice places to visit nearby.

No list of the Best of Brasov would be complete without mentioning Dracula’s Castle (Bran Castle), an absolute must-see in the area! But there are many other places to see nearby such as Peles Castle, Rasnov Fortress, 7 Ladders Canyon, mountain villages, fortified churches, etc. You can also go hiking, rafting, or wild bear spotting…

If you have a car, you can visit most of these places on your own. And otherwise, there are some really nice organized tours, some of which combine a few places in one tour.

Here are some of the best tours from Brasov:

• Peles Castle, Dracula’s Castle & Rasnov Fortress (7 hrs). If you do just one day trip, this is probably the best option.
• Brown Bear Watching (3hrs). Perfect addition to the attractions in Brasov city.
• 7 Ladders Canyon (4 hrs). Perfect for those looking for a more adventurous day trip and nice scenery.
• Romanian Mountain Villages (8hrs). This is a really nice day trip for those who want to experience a more local side of Romania, off the beaten path.
• Wild Water Rafting (3-4hrs, May to October).

When to Visit

Brasov is a year-round destination and is enjoyable in any season.

Most tourists come in the summer months, between May and October – that’s when the weather is best, everything is green, and you can enjoy the most beautiful mountain scenery in the area (and maybe even spot bears). The city really comes to life in the summer!

However, Brasov can be really magical in winter as well, especially in December , when the city hosts an annual Christmas market . There’s just something magical about it, especially if there’s snow!

How to get to Brasov from Bucharest

Brasov has its own international airport, but most international tourists travel via the capital city Bucharest. The distance between Bucharest and Brasov is 184 km (114 miles).

Here are the best ways to get from Bucharest to Brasov:

• By train: There are several options. You can use either CFR (Romanian Railways) or one of the private companies (Astra Transcarpatic, Softrans) which have excellent prices. The average travel time is 2.5-4 hours, depending on the type of train. The prices vary between 25-50 lei (5-10 Euro).
• By bus: There are also buses from Bucharest to Brasov. Count about 3.5 hours for the journey and the price is about 50 lei (10 Euro).
• By car: Rent a car at Bucharest airport (see here for some of the best deals for car hire) and explore Romania on your own. The journey from Bucharest to Brasov by car takes about 3-3.5 hours.
• Private transfer: There are also private transfers from Bucharest airport to Brasov and/or back from Brasov to Bucharest (see here ).
• With a tour. One of the easiest ways to visit Brasov from Bucharest is by joining an organized tour . Below, you can find our hand-picked selection of the best tours.

If you are planning a longer trip to Transylvania, you could base yourself in different towns for a few days. Brasov is a very good base for the area, along with Sibiu, Sighisoara, and Cluj Napoca.

Cluj-Napoca airport to Brasov is 316 km, 4 hours. From Sibiu to Brasov – 140 km, 2.5 hrs.

Another option is to book a multi-day trip from Bucharest – it’s the easiest way to visit some of the very best places without having to plan much.

Many people visiting Romania prefer to stay in Bucharest and take day trips. We already mentioned that there are many tours that visit Brasov from Bucharest, usually in combination with Bran Castle.

Here are some of the most popular day and multi-day tours that visit Brasov from Bucharest:

• 1-day small-group tour to Dracula Castle, Peles Castle, and Brasov (the best-rated day trip).
• 2-day Transylvania tour .
• 3-day tour of Medieval Transylvania .

Where to eat in Brasov

There are so many really good restaurants in Brasov where you can find excellent food. (We indicated all the restaurants mentioned here on our map of Brasov attractions above.)

For Romanian food , try Sergiana (more traditional) or La Ceaun (more casual). Both are great choices.

For international or Mediterranean cuisine , try Dei Frati , Bistro de l’Arte , or Mediterra . All of them are located downtown in quiet pedestrian areas and offer delicious food. Be sure to book ahead if you are visiting on the weekend!

Where to stay in Brasov

We recommend staying in the heart of the city center, close to Council Square. It has an excellent location for sightseeing and there are lots of good restaurants nearby.

Brasov has a big range of accommodations to choose from, from beautiful privately-rented apartments to nice hotels. And the prices are very reasonable! If you ever wanted to stay at a really nice place without spending a fortune, Brasov is a good place to do that.

Here are some of the best-rated hotels in the best location for all budgets (this is quite relative since even the most expensive hotels are very affordable, especially in the lower season):

• $$$$ Vila Katharina .
• $$$ CASA CHITIC -HOTEL.
• $$ Residence Hirscher .
• $ Safrano Palace (extremely popular, great-value accommodation).

TIP: If you are looking to spend a more relaxing holiday or a weekend getaway in Brasov, take a look at Grand Hotel Belvedere a bit outside the city center. It’s also an excellent choice for those traveling by car (free easy parking) and families with children (indoor pool).

About the author: Romanian travel writer Andrea from TravelTasteFeel has been to Brasov many times, in different seasons, and explored the city on foot from corner to corner. In this guide, she selected the most interesting landmarks and top things to do in Brasov for first-time visitors. All the recommendations in the article are based on her personal experience.

TIP: If you are visiting Bucharest on this trip as well, be sure to check our Bucharest guides below. One of them covers all the musts, and the other one takes you a bit off the beaten path. Take a look!

• Best Things to Do in Bucharest
• Hidden Gems of Bucharest

READ ALSO: Best Cities to Visit in Romania

If you found this post useful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

Image credits: Andrea Kriston and Depositphotos.com

More travel inspiration for European cities:

If you are visiting other European cities and are looking for in-depth information for your trip, take a look at some of our city guides:

• Amsterdam, Netherlands
• Antwerp, Belgium
• Barcelona, Spain
• Bern, Switzerland
• Bologna, Italy
• Brussels, Belgium
• Bruges, Belgium
• Bucharest, Romania
• Colmar, France
• Edinburgh, UK
• Florence, Italy
• Funchal, Madeira, Portugal
• Geneva, Switzerland
• Krakow, Poland
• Lisbon, Portugal
• Liverpool, UK
• Lucerne, Switzerland
• Madrid, Spain
• Manchester, UK
• Milan, Italy
• Naples, Italy
• Paris, France
• Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal
• Ravenna, Italy
• Reykjavik, Iceland
• Rome, Italy
• Salzburg, Austria
• Siena, Italy
• Sintra, Portugal
• Venice, Italy
• Verona, Italy
• For more… check our  destinations page.

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Brasov City Guide: 35+ Things to Do & Places to Visit

Brasov, Romania is the gateway city to Transylvania and probably the country’s most famous tourist city - for good reason!

So if you’re wondering why you should visit, the best things to do when here, attractions and tours in the area, and other useful info to help you plan your trip - this city guide we prepared contains everything you need to know about visiting Brasov! Brasov, a fairy-tale-like small town, is famous for its historical attractions and impossible-to-miss landmarks like the Black Church, its rich medieval history, and large open squares like Council Square where locals and tourists alike enjoy the good life.

The city's historical center is known simply as Old Town and is filled with colourful Saxon townhouses, narrow alleys, and many fortifications all wearing the heavy cloak of centuries past and with lots of history to share with curious travelers.

Surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains from all sides, it’s hard to resist Brasov’s charm. Located in the heart of Romania at the intersection of the 3 historical provinces that make up our country, Brasov is a great place to set up base for a couple of days on your holiday in Romania. Here's a quick summary of what you can do in Brasov:

• see how Saxon culture influenced city architecture and life
• visit famous castles in Romania such as Bran Castle (aka Dracula Castle), the luxurious Peles Castle and the impressive Rasnov medieval fortress
• discover Romanian rural culture in the traditional villages of Magura, Pestera, Ciocanu, Sirnea or Viscri and the other Saxon villages
• go hiking in Piatra Craiului, Bucegi or Fagaras Mountains
• see brown bears in the wild and other wild animals
• check some of the popular things to do in Transylvania

This travel guide made by locals was updated in January 2022 with the best things to do in Brasov, places to visit, and how to plan your trip. We collected more than 35 items for this list so get ready!

Table of contents

• Top Brasov attractions & things to do

1. Discover over 600 years of history at the Black Church

2. take in the atmosphere of piata sfatului, 3. st. nicholas’ cathedral: a blend of architectural styles, 4. explore brasov old town fortifications, 5. the white tower, black tower, and the medieval city walls.

• 6. Mount Tampa & the Brasov sign: Hike (or not) and be amazed

7. Can you squeeze through Rope Street?

8. get lost on side streets and narrow alleys, 9. discover the culture of brasov in its museums, 10. get festive at the christmas market, 11. explore the wonders of space at the planetarium, 12. relax at aqua paradise, 13. admire beautiful architecture at apollonia cultural bank, day trips and guided tours from brasov, 14. bran castle: romania’s #1 tourist attraction, 15. feel like royalty at peles castle, 16. rasnov citadel: history and spectacular views, 17. visit fagaras fortress: a medieval fortress turned prison, 18. enter medieval times at rupea fortress, 19. sighisoara citadel: the last inhabited fortress in europe, 20. discover the saxon villages with fortified churches, 21. viscri: a place chosen by royalty, 22. discover rural life in traditional mountain villages, go explore romanian outdoors, 23. the magnetic allure of piatra craiului mountains, 24. see the sphinx in bucegi mountains, 25. fagaras mountains: the highest in romania, 26. feel the adrenaline at 7 stairs canyon, 27. go horse riding in transylvania, 28. go on a bike trip in the saxon villages, 29. skiing at poiana brasov, wildlife-watching trips, 30. a brown bear watching trip, 31. go hiking and do wildlife tracking, 32. a multi-day hiking and wildlife trip, 33. meet brown bears at libearty bear sanctuary, 34. work on a farm and do wildlife conservation work, best places to eat in brasov, 35. try traditional romanian restaurants, 36. fusion cuisine restaurants, 37. budget-friendly restaurants, 38. get a specialty coffee, 39. best bars in brasov.

• Where to stay in Brasov & budget
• Getting to Brasov & public transportation

Top Brasov attractions & things to do

Brasov is packed with many great things to see and interesting places to visit. The city has a charming and well-preserved medieval architecture, most of which you can see in the Old Town area and Schei neighbourhood.

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Also known as Biserica Neagră, this is Brasov’s most popular landmark and the largest Gothic church in Romania. It's also one of the largest gothic-style churches in Eastern Europe and one of the most famous buildings in Romania .

Dating back to the 14th century, it sits proudly – and unmistakably imposing, at the edge of Piata Sfatului (Council Square). It is often one of the first things tourists want to see when in the city centre.

The church can be visited all year round but visiting hours depend on the season and church service. A ticket costs 20 Lei (approx. 4 Euro) and is worth it. If you’re lucky there might be an organ concert during your stay, but tickets must be bought in advance.

On any given day you will see children running around, adults taking a stroll, old folks feeding pigeons and tourists mesmerized by the beautiful square that is the heart of the Old Town. Blending in with the locals is one of the best things to do here and a great way to understand local culture.

Just like all medieval city squares Council Square was a place for public gatherings, trials and where capital punishment was carried out. The building in the middle called the Council House used to be the old town hall.

It was also known as the Trumpeter’s tower because a man used to go up the tower and sound the trumpet every hour on the dot so locals knew the time.

Today it’s packed with cafes, restaurants, and old buildings with impressive, well-preserved Saxon (Germanic) architecture – and many legends. Local fairs with stalls selling homemade food and artisan products are usually held here, not just during high season, so keep an eye out!

From the main square begins Strada Republicii a long pedestrian street and the perfect place to get acquainted with the eclectic and beautiful architecture of the city of Brasov and its evolution over time. Just pay attention as you walk from one end to another!

This is the first stone-made Orthodox church in Brasov located in the Schei district where Orthodox Romanians lived. Here you’ll find a huge collection of liturgical objects and old Orthodox frescos. And with a local guide, you'll also hear stories about how the majority of Romanians lived under Saxon rule.

On the outside the church has a stunning blend of architectural styles mixing Renaissance, Gothic, and Baroque influences. Don’t skip the church’s annexes as they are also packed with important paintings, historical documents, and unique hand-made souvenirs.

Brasov Old Town back in the day with Catherine's Gate

Like many settlements from medieval times in Romania, Brasov had a complex system of city defenses from the 13th – 15th century - and they’re worth visiting!

The Weavers’ Bastion is the most famous and well preserved with unique architecture in Southeast Europe. It started being used as a venue for opera and music concerts thanks to its impressive acoustics so check if anything’s on while you’re there.

On any other day, there's a small museum where for a small fee of 2 Euro you can find a model of Brasov Fortress with all its defence systems, old weapons, and handmade products crafted by the city’s weavers – the ones who funded the bastion. Another must-see fortification is the Graft Bastion built in the 16th century to allow soldiers to get from the White Tower (or Turnul Alb) into town. Though restored in 2004 the rifle holes are impeccably preserved. There is also the Artists Bastion close to Poarta Schei (Schei Gate) and just below the Brasov Hollywood sign. Though lesser known, it's well preserved and used sometimes for concerts and other shows. It also has a small medieval museum which you can visit for a small fee.

Another notable historical landmark is the Blacksmith’s Bastion – and there are 4 more of these to see!

Besides the defense bastions, Brasov was surrounded by towers and walls which are now very good reasons to go for a walk around in search of viewpoints.

The Black Tower and the White Tower are famous for their well-preserved medieval charm: find them at the edge of Brasov’s Old Town and climb to their top to get an equally stunning view of the city!

Take a stroll by the fortification walls that connect all the towers in the city. They're all within walking distance from one another and suitable for anyone used to moderate physical activity during their holiday. And don’t skip the city’s gates: Poarta Ecaterinei and Schei Gate.

• Local tip: most of Brasov's main attractions are related to Saxon culture and history; look for Brasov walking tours that will also take you to Schei neighbourhood and St. Nicholas Church where Orthodox Romanians lived. There’s also the first Romanian school, as confirmed by historic documents.

Unless you want to wander aimlessly without knowing what you're looking at or search for a free walking tour of questionable quality, we offer a guided walking tour of Brasov. Our local guide will tell you about the city’s rich history dating back to the 13th century, local culture and help you make the most out of your time in Brasov.

Guided Walking Tour of Brasov: Major Sights & Medieval History

Start from: Brasov

You'll find out why was the city so important it needed to be fortified from all sides? How come the first Romanian school opened in Brasov? Why is there a network of underground tunnels beneath the city?

6. Mount Tampa & the Brasov sign: Hike (or not) and be amazed

On any Brasov walking tour you’ll notice a massive Hollywood style sign perched high up on Tampa Mountain. Going there is a must - you’ll be rewarded with the best panoramic views of Brasov, the Romanian Mountains and the hills of Transylvania!

Telecabina Tampa cable car will take you up there and back for 25 Lei or 5 Euro, but you can also go on an uphill hike to it and then a little more when there.

• Pro tip: what I like to do is go up with the cable car just before sunset and find my way back down on foot :)

Finally, another popular place to visit in Brasov is called Strada Sforii, one of the narrowest streets in Europe. The street is only 135 cm or 53 inches at its widest and 112 cm or 44 inches at its narrowest point.

And if you think this is one of the most useless narrowest street in the history of Europe - remember it was used by old-time firemen as passageway to avoid the packed streets in the city center.

Typical streets in the city of Brasov

On the long list of things to do in Brasov, my favorite is to get lost exploring side streets and narrow alleys. To imagine what the city was like 300 years ago.

In the 17th century, there was a great fire that affected many buildings. Most of them were redone in a baroque style but elements from the past remain so I like to inspect the style and decorations of these old townhouses.

And the yellow evening lights and crisp mountain air make my walk even better!

Photography Tour of Romania: Traditional Villages & Local Life

Casa Muresenilor Museum is a cultural space that hosts classical music events and interesting expositions. The Ethnographic Museum of Brasov has an impressive collection of objects (clothing, ceramics, religious items) from the Romanian and Saxon cultures of Transylvania Or maybe you'd like to see how ordinary people lived under communist Romania? The recently opened Museum of Communist Memories is an apartment decorated with objects and furniture from Romania's communist period.

This is not your typical museum as you will experience life as it was for all Romanians back then. The owners built the museum based on their personal history and memories. It's filled with objects from that era and you'll go on a time-traveling journey into communist Romania during your visit. This is definitely one of the more unique things to do in Brasov! The first Romanian school museum nicely completes the list of cultural attractions in Brasov. The local guide here can tell you many fun facts about how the first educational institution in Romania operated. And since you won't know the Romanian language, having someone to ask for a translation here is a good idea.

The Christmas Market is a great reason to visit Brasov during winter. Lots of decorations, a festive Christmas atmosphere, and a LOT of mulled wine are a killer combination! Romanians are jolly fellows and winter holidays always bring out the best in our people!

The Council Square is beautifully decorated and the Christmas Market brings craftsmen, artisans, and local producers from all over the country to Council Square. Buy some traditional cured meats or local cheese, enjoy a kurtos kolac while sipping on mulled wine or tuica to warm up.

The Planetarium part of the Zoo in Brasov offers incredible immersive shows about space and our solar system. Even if the shows are in Romanian, the visual effects and experience your kids will have are worth it. Tickets are 5 Euro for an adult and 3 Euro for children.

Speaking of kids and fun things to do with the family, you might want to check out Aqua Paradise a huge complex with pools, SPA and leisure facilities. It features indoor and outdoor pools so it's perfect all year long if you're looking for a nice way to relax after all the sightseeing in Brasov!

One of the most important and oldest banks in Brasov is located in a historical monument building that was recently restored and opened to the public. Apollonia Cultural Bank hosts shows, cultural events and can be visited freely.

The building is impressive on the outside and is one of the few ones built in Jugendstil in Brasov. So if you're looking for something different than the typical medieval Brasov houses and architecture, this is for you! :)

Brasov is the perfect city to set up base for a couple of days to tick off your list some of the things to see in Romania from your list, as the surrounding area is simply breathtaking.

Visit the medieval castles near Brasov or UNESCO heritage sites, explore traditional villages, natural parks or see wildlife – take your pick! We created the best tours and unique trips from Brasov you won't find anywhere else, have a look:

Tours & Day Trips in Brasov

Thanks to Bram Stoker’s Dracula novel and the 1992 Hollywood movie, Bran Castle also known as Dracula’s Castle is Romania’s most famous landmark.

This 14th-century fortress is truly impressive with many stories to tell and a popular trip to do from Brasov. Did Vlad the Impaler (the inspiration for Count Dracula) have any connection to this place? And why did Queen Marie fall in love with it?

Well, a good guided tour will answer these questions and give you a fun fact or two – others will just tell you fake touristy stories so beware!

Also, pay attention to the souvenir shops there; some offer authentic products, while others sell the idea of authenticity through products made in China.

Bran Castle is 30 km away and getting to Bran from Brasov is possible only by road: on a guided tour, with a rented car, with a taxi (about 45 Euro round-trip) or on a bus from the local bus station. Tickets cost 10 Euro and there's usually a queue, especially during weekends and tourist high season.

Brasov Day Trip: Bran Castle, Peles Castle & more!

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Peles Castle in Sinaia is another famous sight 1,5h away from Brasov. Built in the late 19th century with state-of-the art technology for those times, the castle served as summer residence for the royal family.

Its beautiful exterior is equally matched by the lavishly decorated interior so don’t miss the opportunity to take a tour inside. Getting to Sinaia from Brasov is easiest by train as all trains heading to Bucharest will stop there, or by car.

Another popular attraction close to Brasov is Rasnov Citadel. Perched high on a mountain in the city of Rasnov, the citadel offers spectacular views of the entire area and that’s reason enough to visit!

It was built as a place of refuge for villagers in the area against invading forces and continuously expanded over time. If you can take your eyes off the beautiful landscapes you’ll notice artisan shops through the citadel’s old alleys.

• Local tip: Rasnov Citadel is currently closed for restoration works. The cable car from the city up to it operates normally and you can visit the exterior courtyard, but can't go inside.

Fagaras Fortress is another interesting attraction to visit from Brasov. It served as a seat of power for rulers in the late Middle Ages and was later used as a communist prison, so there’s much history to learn there.

Rupea Fortress is also worth mentioning and shares a similar history with Rasnov Citadel. It's located in the small city of Rupea 1h away from Brasov in Saxon Transylvania.

You can typically make a quick stop at this sight on your way to the next popular tourist attraction which is…

Last but not least, Sighisoara Citadel is one of the must-see attractions in Romania and easily accessible from Brasov by car on a guided day trip or by train.

Located in the heart of Transylvania at the crossroads of major trading routes, this citadel was fortified by the Saxons and is entirely part of UNESCO heritage for its authentic style.

The citadel is still inhabited by locals and on its narrow streets with colourful houses you’ll find artisan shops, traditional restaurants, and cosy cafes. Walk up the (many) stairs to the Monastery Church too – it’s worth it!

Transylvania Culture & History Day Trip: Viscri, Sighisoara & Rupea

South-East Transylvania was settled by Saxons (ethnic Germans) in the 14th century to defend against pagan invaders. Traces of Saxon rule and culture are everywhere in Transylvania, but are particularly visible in the villages of the area between Brasov, Sighisoara and Sibiu.

The allure of Brasov for Saxons stemmed from its strategic location at the crossroads of trade routes connecting the Ottoman Empire and Western Europe, providing lucrative opportunities. Saxon villages have a particular layout, building style, crafts, and culture. During the first half of the XXth century, many ethnic Saxons emigrated from these parts and when the Romanian communist regime came to power in 1947 the remaining ones were ‘asked to leave’ for Germany, and many did.

So most have been abandoned since then and resettled by locals, including from the ethnic rroma minority. But in the last decade or so, most of these villages were brought back to life by city folk and non-profits looking to preserve and restore the traditional way of life. City folks bought traditional houses and turned them into inspiring, boutique guesthouses and great restaurants so visiting the villages is one of the top things to do when in Brasov. 7 of these have been included in UNESCO Heritage for their well-preserved fortified churches : Viscri, Saschiz, Biertan, Calnic, Darju, Valea Viilor and Prejmer.

Besides Viscri, other noteworthy beautiful villages in Saxon Transylvania to consider visiting are Malancrav, Alma Vii, Richis, and Cincsor.

But other villages have endured the test of time and of oppressive politics, and have preserved their traditional way of life. And now they offer a unique way to experience Romanian village life:

2-days of Agro-Tourism in Transylvania at a Local Farm

Start from: Cobor or Brasov

Of the Saxon villages with fortified churches, Viscri is the most famous thanks to King Charles of the UK who bought and restored a house here to spend his Summer holidays.

There are now several boutique, luxury village houses turned guesthouses that offer a traditional rural stay in Viscri for a price that rivals 5* city hotels. And, guess what - they’re usually fully booked!

Now, let's switch to something else...

In my opinion, this is the most picturesque area in our country!

South-West of Brasov at the base of Piatra Craiului Mountains - in my opinion the most picturesque area of our country - are several mountain villages near Brasov famous for their well-preserved authentic mountain lifestyle.

At altitudes of over 800m, the villages of Magura, Pestera, Sirnea, and Ciocanu are spread over hills and locals here live as they used to decades ago. Mountain farming, friendly locals with an active yet simple life, and, crucially, peace and quiet. The old school values of a good life in Transylvania countryside.

Day Trip to Traditional Mountain Villages: Magura & Pestera

• Local tip: if you come across shepherds roaming the hills it's polite to say hi or wave to them! however, beware of their dogs since they can be overprotective

The best way to visit these villages is to go on a guided day trip from Brasov because without local knowledge you don't really know where to go on the trails, where to meet locals, take great pictures or enjoy a traditional lunch with cheese and locally sourced, homegrown products from the villagers.

One of the best things to do when in Brasov is explore the great Romanian Outdoors!

With the wild Carpathian Mountains everywhere offering lots of outdoor activities for everyone in all seasons - there’s no way you’ll be bored! Check our guide on the best hikes in Romania to get a better idea of what to expect.

Sadly, hut-to-hut trekking is not possible in Romania since we don’t have the infrastructure for that and most trails are circuit. And, due to low tourist demand and variety of trails, all hiking tours are private except for this small group trip we’ve prepared:

7-Day Peaks of Romania [Shared Group Trip]

• Pro tip: because the Carpathian Mountains are huge and wild and have an underdeveloped hiking infrastructure for tourists, we strongly recommend you have proper hiking boots and clothing and hire a licensed mountain guide for your trip to keep you safe from unexpected encounters with wild animals

The closest mountain range from Brasov with the most options for day trips in nature for all difficulty levels is Piatra Craiului Mountains.

They're famous for their spectacular and unmistakable 25 km long limestone ridge (pictured above) that scratches the sky. It can be crossed on a 2-day tour by experienced hikers. You can also reach the ridge and summit La Om the highest peak at 2,238m altitude in a one-day hiking trip.

1, 2 or 3 Days Hiking Tour in Piatra Craiului National Park

These mountains have lots of easy and medium-difficulty trails and short trips for everyone. You'll go at 1,400 – 2,000m altitude through dense woodlands, clearings, and traditional villages.

Piatra Craiului National Park is famous for its significant biodiversity and is known as one of the most pristine, beautiful areas in our country. Zarnesti Gorge is a popular, must-see attraction in the park!

If you’re looking for a challenge and more adventurous hiking trails Bucegi Mountains is for you.

You can visit popular attractions such as Heroes’ Cross, the Romanian Sphinx, and Babele natural monuments. And then summit the 6th highest peak in Romania, Omu Peak at 2,505m altitude on a 2-day trip.

2 Day Hiking Trip in Bucegi Mts: The Sphinx & Omu Peak

Start from: Brasov or Sinaia or Busteni

Reaching the plateau of Bucegi Mts where some of these attractions are is easy to do with a cable car from Busteni or Sinaia (Prahova Valley). That's why they're so popular with city folk and inexperienced hikers who want a day in nature to visit places with spectacular views.

However, most of the other trails are of medium-hard difficulty and accessible only during the warm season. You can also descend Bucegi Mts on the Western side into Moeciu - Bran area and from there continue hiking in Piatra Craiului.

Last but not least, Fagaras Mountains, the highest mountains in Romania with trails typically starting from 2,300m altitude, are easy to approach from Brasov.

To do that you'll drive on the best driving road in the world - Transfagarasan Highway. The road is open for driving only during 1 July – 30 October.

Outside this period you can get to Balea Lake, the starting point for most trails, using the cable car that goes right above the road that is closed.

The silence, wilderness, and raw beauty of Fagaras Mts, hiking on high crests with narrow trails where the mist comes from one side and goes on the other – is absolutely spectacular!

The highest peak in Romania Moldoveanu at 2,545m altitude is here, so they're the preferred destination for experienced hikers. This can be reached only on a 3-day trip with overnight at Podragu cabin.

2 or 3 Day Hiking Trip in Fagaras Mts: Negoiu or Moldoveanu Peak

Start from: Brasov (pick-up)

Another outdoor attraction close to Brasov is the 7 Stairs Canyon - a beautiful creation of nature that will make you feel adventurous as you climb the narrow ladders to the top!

Hiking Trip to the Spectacular 7 Stairs Canyon

This popular attraction is usually visited on half-day trips: a short walk in the forest, climbing the canyon, and then back.

You can also go horse riding in Transylvania over the hills.

Riding from village to village in Transylvania, though many people asked, is not possible because of high distances and too few ranches. Nevertheless, picturesque views await both beginners and experienced riders.

If a horse can’t take you - a bike will. The Saxon villages are connected by a vast network of picturesque dirt bike paths which make for a wonderful way to explore them.

2-Day Transylvania Bike Trails Tour: Viscri & Saxon Villages

For MTB fans - plenty of options for a bike trip too just outside Brasov on Postavaru Mountain.

If you’re a fan of winter sports then Poiana Brasov is a good place for you with the largest ski domain in the country! You may want to check our guide for skiing in Romania .

Romania is known as Europe’s last wilderness reserve and there’s good reason for that: we are home to the largest brown bear population in Europe, and in the mountains, you can find wolves, lynx, wild boar, chamois, bisons (extinct all over Europe but recently re-wilded here) and may other animals.

So one of the best things to do in Brasov is to go on a wildlife watching tour that typically also involves hiking - so you’d combine both activities.

We work with professional wildlife guides (since regular or hiking guides don't have the expertise for this) who can keep you safe while also teaching you about the animals’ habitat.

Check this out:

Our most popular tour from Brasov is this half-day brown bear watching trip that will take you to a wildlife observation hide in the forest.

You’ll sit quietly and wait for the bears to show up (85%

We organise a special hiking and wildlife day trip in the wilderness of Fagaras Mountains.

You'll go in a non-touristy area with a wildlife ranger who will show you how to find animal trails and understand animal behaviour in the wild. You’ll hike up to vantage points where hopefully you'll see animals roaming in the wild!

If you’re feeling really adventurous, you can go on 3-day hiking and wildlife trips in the wilderness. You’ll stay in specially-built eco-cabins overlooking areas where animals roam freely and go on hiking trips – higher chances of seeing animals here and a thrilling experience!

3-Day Hiking & Wildlife Trip at an Eco-Luxury Private Cabin in Fagaras Mts

Start from: Rucar, Arges county

3-day Hiking & Wildlife Trip in the Wild Carpathians

Start from: Rucar village, Arges county

Our wildlife trips from Brasov are unique in Eastern Europe. They're wonderful opportunities to learn about Mother Nature, especially for kids!

But due to their complex logistics, don't underestimate them: they're not like regular hiking trips and require a very good physical condition as you’ll go in inaccessible, non-touristy areas.

And since nature can't be controlled - and you don’t want to run into brown bears or a wild boar - safety is our highest priority. The best time for wildlife trips is between early May - late October.

There’s also the option of visiting Libearty Bear Sanctuary close to the city of Zarnesti. Home to over 100 brown bears rescued from circuses and cruel living conditions, you can now see them happy and playful.

Keep in mind that this is not a zoo but bears are kept captive. Visits are possible only in the morning and are led by staff from the sanctuary.

Together with a conservation non-profit, we created the first volunteer trip in Romania that combines tourist activities (hiking and wildlife watching) with hands-on environmental work at a Transylvanian farm, a tree nursery and for wildlife conservation deep in the mountains.

This is a shared small group trip with fixed departure dates and an amazing, hands-on opportunity to learn about the importance of conservation work for those passionate about protecting Mother Nature.

6-Day Volunteer Trip: Farm Life, Tree Nursery & Wildlife Conservation

A typical Romanian appetizer platter - my favorite!

After all these day trips you must be hungry! Luckily, Romanians love to eat, drink, and enjoy their time out! Besides your typical Western-inspired menu with fried foods, burgers, and pizzas, there are quite a few restaurants in Brasov serving traditional Romanian food .

Go out in the city to find cabbage meat rolls (sarmale), polenta with fresh cow cheese (mamaliga), beef tripe soup (ciorba de burta), Cluj-style cabbage or pomana porcului (you’re in for a surprise with these!).

Here’s a list of our favorite restaurants and places to go eat in Brasov (with an English menu too!):

• for traditional Romanian cuisine in Brasov, the best restaurants are at La Ceaun, Sergiana, Ograda or Sub Tampa. You won’t be disappointed!

Pair whatever you order with local wines (another pleasant surprise!) or palinka the Romanian spirit that will boost your appetite & warm you up!

Brasov is also known for its fusion cuisine restaurants, some of the best in the country! First on our list is Casa Hirscher, a cosmopolitan, elegant, and discreet restaurant that brings the food experience to a whole new level.

Poarta Schei 4 and Bistro Del’Arte are two other great places to eat you should consider.

If you’re looking for affordable, belly-filling and delicious options, consider restaurants such as Pizzeria Della Nonna, La Birou Bistro or Old Jack Burger House where a meal for 2 and drinks will cost around 15-20 Euro.

Don’t miss trying traditional street food snacks - we are a nation very fond of our pretzels, ice cream in any form, shape, and size, or pastries filled with cheese, meat, mushroom or jam called merdenele. Grab a bunch and head over to the fountains in Council Square.

Besides eating, Romanians like to drink – especially coffee and a good wine :) The going out scene in Brasov is hip, modern and cool so you should try to experience this culture when there.

We love sipping on coffee and Brasov has plenty of small cozy coffee shops: try Croitoria de Cafea, Home Cocktail Bar or NOLA Coffeeshop staffed by true coffee (and tea) connoisseurs.

Check our list with the best coffee shops in Romania to find out more options for each city.

We like our drinks just like we like our coffee: regularly!

If you’re looking for a fun night try The Kafe Pub, For Sale and Monklint - these are very popular with locals.

As for getting a taste of the nightlife in Brasov, check out Times Pub, Deane’s, and Rockstadt on weekends.

Where to stay in Brasov & budget

As Romania’s #2 tourist city after Bucharest, Brasov boasts a wide range of accommodations: hostels, affordable guesthouses, medium-priced hotels and apartments, fancy hotels, or boutique stays in medieval townhouses. Check Booking.com or AirBnB to find the best for you!

Keep in mind that Brasov is Romania's most popular tourist city (after Bucharest). Lots of tourists come here starting with the Summer months until early Autumn. Also in December when visiting Brasov, usually covered in snow, is one of the top things Romanians like to do to experience a charming winter. So we strongly recommend you book your stay and activities in advance.

Restaurant and accommodation prices are quite high during peak tourist season, but you can still find good deals if you venture on side streets a bit further from the Old Town area. A reasonable budget for accommodation and meals is around 50 – 70 Euro per day per person.

Getting to Brasov & public transportation

Brasov's Airport opened in 2023 and there are already several two flights operated by Wizz Air from London and Dortmund. As the city is growing and its tourism potential is significant, we expect to see more flight routes opening soon, so keep an eye on the airport website to check.

The easiest way to get from Bucharest Airport to Brasov is via a shuttle transfer operated by private companies. We usually recommend ( this company ) or this one .

From Bucharest to Brasov the easiest way is by train which runs almost every hour starting from Bucharest North Train Station. A ticket costs around 10 Euro per person per trip and you can buy the ticket directly from the train station before leaving.

Getting from Cluj-Napoca to Brasov is easiest by train, even if it takes about 5-6h. Same from Sibiu although you can also take a bus.

• Check our blog on public transport in Romania for more info.

The road connecting Brasov to Bucharest is usually crowded. During major holidays or weekends, it can get VERY busy with traffic jams and standstills occurring frequently. So plan ahead, go by train or for an extra cost but less hassle - get a guide who is experienced in navigating Romanian roads and best times to travel.

Taxis in Brasov are reliable and relatively cheap for short distances: CrisTaxi with a 1,99 Lei/km rate and FloTax with a 1,93 Lei/km rate. Uber also works in Brasov as does Bolt app. *** That's it - lots of reasons to visit Brasov and spend a couple of days there! If you have more questions or need help with planning your trip contact us - we're happy to help!

Your Romanian Friend,

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Blog > The complete guide to: Brasov travel

The complete guide to: Brasov travel

Welcome to this beautiful medieval Transylvanian town of Brasov; smack in the middle of the mountains, carefully balancing its large size and modern amenities with its small-town atmosphere, history and warmth. Whether you’re planning to visit for a few days or you want to stay a while, here’s how to prepare for an epic trip to Brasov.

Getting to and from Brasov

Brasov Airport is still a couple of years away from completion, so if you’re flying in, your best bets are to fly into Bucharest, Sibiu or Targu Mures International Airports and then take the train into Brasov.

Brasov is well linked to all major cities in Romania with four to nine connections each day depending on the city. Make sure to aim for the InterRegio trains as they are the fastest and most comfortable. Approximate price of a train ticket is EUR 12 from Bucharest, EUR 10 from Sibiu, and EUR 15 from Targu Mures.

Train tickets can be bought online beforehand — you will need to make an account and the user experience is not the friendliest or most intuitive, but it is doable. You can also buy tickets at the automated ticket counters in all main stations (they stop selling 45 minutes before the scheduled train departure) or at the ticket counters in the train stations (be careful as there is usually a line, so make sure you allow yourself enough time).

If Brasov is your first destination, then your best option is to use one of the several companies that provide direct transfers from the airport. Direct Aeroport and M&M Express are the most prolific ones. You reserve a transfer and they wait for you in arrivals and accompany you all the way.

Getting around Brasov

Walking is a great way to get around the city | Photo by Brasov Urban Adventures

Once you get to the city, our recommendation is to walk or rent a bike. The historical centre is just a couple of blocks, and even if you want to get to the more bohemian, mid-late 20th century parts of the city it does not take more than 40 to 50 minutes on foot.

However, if you have a short amount of time and would rather also sightsee form the bus between interest points, the bus network works great and traffic in Brasov is really calm so you can quickly move from place to place. Two trip tickets are LEI 4 (90 eurocents), and make sure you validate your ticket when you get on the bus.

Things to do in Brasov

Walking the cobbled stone streets in the historical centre is the first thing anyone should do in Brasov. The Old City is quite small, and you can easily trace its borders by looking to the old city walls that have been preserved and still enclose this historical area. If you want to get an exact lay of the land, then start your walk with a visit to the Weaver’s Bastion where they have a scale model of the city.

Get a lay of the land with a scale model of Brasov | Photo by Brasov Urban Adventures

You’ll also want to spend some time getting lost in the streets of the old Șchei neighbourhood spreading higher and higher up until the base of the Mount Tampa. Back when the Saxons established the city, Romanians were not allowed to own property within its walls so they started building their houses next to the gates. As the city grew, they kept building and expanding further and further, creating this picturesque neighbourhood with narrow streets, steep stairs and small, beautiful houses.

If you want to go even higher up, take the cable car (one way EUR 2, return EUR 3.50) or walk up (45 minutes to an hour) to the peak of Mount Tampa for the hands-down best views of Brasov. Don’t forget your selfie stick.

Taking the cable car up Mount Tampa | Photo by Brasov Urban Adventures

If you feel like getting active, you can take the No. 20 bus to Poiana Brașov just 20 minutes away from the city centre. This is Romania’s biggest ski resort where you can enjoy a walk in the woods or rent a bike and explore.

Try your hand at a new sport: in summer, take a taxi (EUR 7-9) for a short ride outside Brasov to YAZ, where you can enjoy a nice lunch on the side of a lake with a wakeboarding cable system. In winter, go up to Poiana Brasov, rent a snowboard, skis or a sled and have some fun in the snow followed by some fun with a cup of mulled wine.

Brasov on the big screen

Get in the mood for Transylvania and all its mythology with a screening the 1992 film  Bram Stoker’s Dracula . It may not have been filmed in Brasov, but it might just be a fun watch before you go. To get a visual sense of Brasov, take a look at this  short video giving an overview of the city.

Brasov in books

If you’re planning on checking out Bran Castle, commonly known as Dracula’s Castle, either before or after your time in Brasov, dust off a copy of Dracula by Bram Stoker before your trip.

RELATED POSTS

Ultimate Travel Guide to Brasov

Nestled at the heart of the Carpathian Mountains in Romania is Brasov, a fantastic city to visit on its own merit and to use as a base for exploring the wider Transylvania region.

While a lot of cities around Europe have a medieval vibe with cobbled streets, pastel-coloured houses and castles, Brasov is an authentic medieval city with gothic churches and fortified Saxon city walls. And yes, it still has those cobbled streets and multi-coloured, charming buildings.

It’s the 7th largest city in Romania, far smaller than the capital city of Bucharest, making Brasov seem small but there are lots of things to do in Brasov and nearby.

The main attraction is the famous Bran Castle in Transylvania, the inspiration behind Dracula’s castle in the classic novel by Bram Stoker, which is an easy day trip from Brasov. And within Brasov itself, you cannot miss visiting Black Castle and the views from Tampa mountain.

Brasov is a great choice for an alternative city break and a worthy addition to any big Eastern European trip.

This ultimate travel guide to Brasov will show you all the most beautiful places in Brasov, what to expect when visiting, where to stay in Brasov and things to do in Brasov which will help you in planning a trip to Brasov Romania. 

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Table of Contents

How to get to Brasov

Brasov doesn’t have its own airport so international travellers will either fly into Bucharest or Sibiu International Airports, which are connected to cities all over Europe and the Middle East through airlines like Ryanair and Wizz Air.

Both airports are over two hours’ drive from Brasov but take twice the time via trains, so booking a private airport transfer might be a better option for some travellers. 

For travellers on a budget, the minibuses or ‘Maxi Taxi’ are a cheaper alternative to private transfers from the airports to Brasov. They leave every half an hour from Bucharest to Brasov and are the most popular, cost-effective way for visitors to reach Brasov.

Brasov has a main train station and the Romanian rail network has greatly improved in recent years. InterCity trains are the fastest and most comfortable and you can even catch an overnight train from Budapest straight to Brasov. 

What to expect in Brasov

Brasov is a friendly and safe city to visit though you might notice tourist police at some of the major attractions in Brasov and like any city, be aware of pick pocketers. 

The main language is Romanian but a surprising number of people, particularly young people, speak English well. In smaller Romanian towns, there will be fewer English-speakers, but you shouldn’t have a problem communicating in a touristed city like Brasov.

Romania is in the European Union and is currently in the process of joining the Schengen area but isn’t a member yet, so do check your visa requirements.

The local currency is the Romanian Leu and unlike a lot of other European countries, tipping isn’t just welcomed but expected in restaurants. Service charges aren’t usually included in the bill and a 5-10% tip is the general guideline. Brasov is a bit pricey by Romanian standards, but still budget friendly.

How to get around Brasov

The city centre is beautiful with lots to look at, so you’ll be walking around Brasov between all the main sites as much as possible. However, Brasov is quite spread out so you may need to use public transport to get around Brasov at some point during your trip. 

Luckily, the bus network in Brasov is fantastic and cheap though there are no night buses in Brasov so make sure you’re not stranded miles away from your hotel after 23:30 on weekdays and 22:30 on weekends!

You can buy bus tickets from machines at most bus stops or nearby supermarkets and kiosks with a ‘RAT’ sign and there is a bus ticket machine in Brasov train station. Make sure to validate your tickets before hopping on the bus. 

The most useful bus lines are line 4, 51 and 50 which all travel to one of the main squares in Brasov. 

The best time to visit Brasov

Winter is a very picturesque time to visit Brasov and the wider Transylvanian region due to the almost guaranteed snowfall that will cover the Carpathian Mountains. Brasov is a mountain resort town and there are plenty of winter sports activities you can do in the area like snowshoeing and skiing.

But if you’re not a fan of the cold (or the heat!) then April is perfect as temperatures will be very mild and the mountains will be out in full bloom, but you’ll be visiting before heavy rainfall period over summer from May-August when the weather is warmer but can be very wet.

April is also an ideal month for animal trekking in the Carpathian Mountains where you may spot lynx, bears or wolves.

Likewise, September-October is a great time to visit Brasov and of course, Transylvania has many Halloween-themed events during October so expect accommodation prices to reflect this. 

Things to do in Brasov

Biserica neagra.

Brasov’s Biserica Neagra or Black Church is the largest Gothic church in Eastern Europe and one of the top things to do in Brasov and should be included on any free walking tour of Brasov.

It’s a beautiful, imposing church that is actually not black but has an orange roof with grey brick walls which is in keeping with most of the other buildings in Brasov’s Old Town.

It’s named the Black Church because a fire broke out in 1689 and tainted the interior with smoke. It’s representative of all the influences in Brasov over the centuries from the Ottoman Empire to the Saxons. 

Piata Sfatului

Piata Sfatului, which is otherwise known as the council square, looks more like a triangle than a square. It’s such a charming, pretty square with rainbow patchwork buildings and it’s no surprise that many visitors choose to sit in one of the cafes to admire the area for as long as possible. 

The Casa Sfatului (also known as the Council House or Town Hall) is a 13th-century building that sits in the middle of the square with a clock tower that still chimes every hour.

Piata Sfatului is where you can find the Brasov Market at Christmas where the entire square is filled with wooden huts selling festive treats and gifts.

Schei District

You can’t visit Brasov without checking out the Schei district! It’s a real-life time machine back to the 17th-century when the Saxons lived within the city fortress and the Romanians were forced to live outside the walls.

The houses are very reminiscent of the era with red-tiled roofs, decorative iron door knockers and narrow, curving streets.

St Nicholas Church, the Romanian Orthodox Church in the district, is home to many old and valuable Romanian books including the oldest bible in the Romanian language.

Catherine’s Gate

As alluded to in the previous activity, Brasov is a fortified medieval city with fortress walls which usually means there is a city gate.

Catherine’s Gate is really something special – it’s the last medieval gate still standing, and it looks so quirky and intact with tall turrets and curved walls, you can imagine a gate just like it in a theme park.

The Saxons built the gate almost five hundred years ago with the Brasov coat of arms in the centre of the gate.

Tampa Mountain

Brasov is almost completely encircled in the Carpathian Mountains and Tampa mountain is practically on the city’s doorstep.

Interestingly, Tampa mountain has a Hollywood-like sign with ‘BRASOV’ visible from the city where you can either hop on a cable car or take the roughly one-hour hike up to the viewing platform that sits just to the left of the sign.

It’s the best place to witness an incredible view of the entire city including the Black Church and Council Square.

String Street

Somewhere you wouldn’t normally want to walk through on a dark night is String Street or Strada Sforii, one of the narrowest streets in Europe.

It looks more like an alley than a legitimate street as it only measures between 53-44 inches at different parts of the street and the majority is undercover.

String Street is very close to the trails up Tampa mountain, so it’s conveniently located and completely free to see one of the quirkiest attractions in Brasov.

Black and White Towers

An alternative option for fantastic views is to visit the Black and White Towers, situated on a path behind Brasov’s old fortified city walls.

There are steps up to both towers so they’re a lot easier to reach than Tampa mountain. While the white tower resembles the design and era of Catherine’s Gate, the black tower is more modern with a glass roof and, like the Black Church, also isn’t black!

Poiana Brasov Ski Resort

If you are visiting Brasov during the winter months, you can easily reach the Poiana Brasov ski resort in the Postavaru mountains just outside of Brasov.

There are 12 runs and trails on the mountain for you to go skiing or snowboarding as well as tubing, luging, ice skating, snowshoeing and several other snow activities. 

You can travel to Poiana Brasov ski resort by bus from Brasov itself and just spend a day there or split your time in Brasov between the two places, though accommodation will be much more expensive within the ski resort itself.

What to eat in Brasov

The food in Brasov , and Romania, in general, is usually inexpensive and it’s not difficult to find family-run restaurants serving traditional Romanian food at an affordable price.

Traditional Romanian food is pretty much what you would expect of an Eastern European country: unpretentious and hearty with lots of soups and broths, huge cuts of meat, with pickled vegetables like cabbage. 

One of the best restaurants in Brasov for authentic Romanian cuisine is La Ceaun with a menu featuring potato and ham soup, lamb stew and cabbage rolls.

Restaurant Sergiana offers similar foodie fare with homemade sausages and beef soup but has more choice for vegetarians and caters to international visitors with wait staff dressed in authentic Romanian dress. 

Brasov also has plenty of exceptional Mediterranean and Italian restaurants and lots of cafes if you start to get bored of eating soups and stews! The Italian food scene is particularly strong in Brasov. 

Where to stay in Brasov

Budget – Since Brasov can be a bit pricier than other parts of Romania, you can still stick to a budget by staying in low-cost accommodation and there are some great hostels in Brasov. Downton Hostel is just as the name suggests, really well-located in the heart of the city.

It’s a modern, cosy hostel with beautiful wooden furniture. Centrum House Hostel is another good choice if you want to get involved in Brasov’s party scene as it’s close to all the bars and clubs and there’s even a bar in the hotel. 

Mid-range – For less than €50 a night, you can stay in Bella Muzica which is mere steps away from the Black Church and Council Square. This affordable hotel has a homely, tavern feel with exposed brick walls and dark wood furnishings.

If you’re driving into Brasov or want a resort/lodge style hotel, right at the base of Tampa mountain is Hotel Kolping which offers big, fuss-free rooms with lovely mountain views.

Luxury – Villa Katharina is a 4-star hotel which is well under €100 per night and has luxurious touches like chandeliers and free-standing copper baths with quirky artwork.

Alternatively, the Kronwell Brasov Hotel is the complete opposite with modern, minimalist design and an indoor pool.

Tours to do in Brasov

Old town walking tour.

A walking tour of Brasov Old Town is the perfect way to learn about the history of the city and see all the highlights, especially if you’re short on time.

A local, knowledgeable guide will take you through Brasov’s past from the middle ages to the present day, stopping off at main attractions like the Black Church, St Nicholas Church in the Schei district and Piata Sfatului.

Evening Candlelight Tour

Or if you’ve had a busy day snowshoeing at the Poiana Brasov ski resort and want to explore Brasov at night, then you can!

Join this evening candlelight tour after the tourist crowds have dispersed and you can discover a different side to Brasov. Plus, the tour ends in a pub, so you and you have the chance to make new friends with travellers visiting Brasov.

Cycling Tour

A cycling tour is an ideal way to explore Brasov Old Town and the wider city because Brasov is a very cycling-friendly city, but you might not want to hire bikes because there aren’t a lot of racks where you can store a bike while you sightsee.

Ride out onto the nearby mountain trails as well as city streets to see as much of Brasov as possible and the tour also includes lunch.

Day trips from Brasov 

Transylvanian castles.

Visiting Dracula’s spiritual home of Bran Castle is often the main reason why travellers visit Transylvania and stay in Brasov in the first place, it’s a can’t-miss!

This highly rated day trip covers Bran Castle as well as Peles Castle and Rasnov Fortress which are two other amazing castles in the region. You’ll also enjoy the breath-taking views as you drive through the Carpathian Mountains – it’s a day you won’t forget in a hurry!

Viscri and Sighisoara

Brasov might be a fortified city, but it’s the fortified churches in the Transylvania region that have been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

If you want to explore more medieval villages and fortresses dating back to the 14th-century, then this Sighisoara, Rupea Fortress and Viscri Fortified Church day trip is perfect for you. History and culture lovers will adore how well the churches and villages have been preserved.

Canyoning in Transylvania

Transylvania might be filled with castles and fortresses, but it’s also a beautiful mountainous region with lots of outdoor activities on offer.

If you like being active on your travels then you will enjoy this canyoning day trip , no matter your skill level as the terrain is mainly flat so you can bring the whole family.

Visit the Seven Ladders Canyon, the Rasnoavei Gorge and Zarnesti Gorge and get your oxygen flowing while enjoying the epic surroundings.

Recommended tours in Brasov

• Bran Castle and Rasnov Fortress Tour from Brasov with Optional Peles Castle Visit
• Small-Group Brown Bear-Watching Experience from Brasov
• Small-Group Tour Sighisoara, Rupea Fortress and Viscri Day Trip from Brasov
• Small-Group Day trip Transfagarasan road and Poienari Fortress from Brasov
• Fortified Churches – Bran Castle – Rasnov Fortress Tour from Brasov
• Brasov Old Town Small-Group Walking Tour
• Small-Group Day Trip in Romanian Authentic Mountain Villages from Brasov
• Day Hike in Carpathian Mountains for all levels in five areas
• Transfagarasan Highway: Full-Day Private Guided Tour
• Horseback Riding Tour In Brasov – Ride Horses Through Fields, Forests And Hills

If you’d like to save it for later, please save it to Pinterest.

Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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What to do in Brasov Romania in 2 days

Last updated on September 16th, 2023 at 09:53 am

Located at the very heart of Romania, Brasov is perhaps the country’s most well-known destination next to Bucharest. For good reason. Brasov is a beautiful picturesque city and admiring its charms is well worth a trip on its own. That said, Brasov also serves as an excellent base to explore the breathtaking Transylvania region. So, without further ado, read on and find out what to do in Brasov, one of the prettiest places to visit in Romania, in 2 days.

This post contains affiliate links. For more information, visit our Disclosure page .

Brasov was only one stop on our fantastic road trip across Romania. Read all about this awesome trip of ours here!

What to do in Brasov in 48 hours

Most travellers spend no more than a couple of hours or a half day in Brasov as part of a tour of the nearby castles. If travelling on a really tight schedule, that’s better than not seeing Brasov at all of course.

However, the city is extremely charming and you’d need at least two days to fully appreciate it. That’s how long we stayed and, still, we only had time to get lost in the magic of Brasov Old Town. If we had more time, we would have explored the modern side of the city as well.

We don’t suggest a specific 2-day itinerary to follow. The city itself is very compact yet there are a lot of things to do around Brasov. So we thought best to just list all the things we could (and one we couldn’t) fit in about 48 hours so that you pick and choose what to include in your own itinerary. Here’s our very own list of the top things to do in Brasov, one of Eastern Europe’s most precious treasures.

Top things to do in Brasov Romania in 2 days

1. wander around brasov old town.

The historic centre of Brasov is a sight for sore eyes. The city’s past is omnipresent in the medieval and baroque elements that co-exist in complete harmony. Colourful and ornate, the buildings in Brasov Old Town seem to have sprung straight out of the pages of a fairy tale. Strolling around this enchanting setting should be every visitor’s top priority when in Brasov. Here’s a list of what to see in Brasov Old Town.

Piata Sfatului , the Council Square

Transylvanian Saxons, the German populations who inhabited the region from the 12th to the 19th century, are responsible for the architectural beauty that is Brasov. Piata Sfatului represents the heart of medieval Brasov. It is one of the most picturesque squares we have ever laid eyes on. Try to stroll around the square very early in the morning when it’s unbelievably quiet and shoot some of the best photos of your Romanian trip.

A favourite meeting point for locals and travellers alike, the square is buzzing with life from noon till late at night. During the summer, Piata Sfatului also hosts various events and performances. Sipping local beer while people-watching at a bar right on the square is one of the best pastimes in Brasov.

Biserica Neagra , the Black Church

The main attraction in Brasov Old Town is Biserica Neagra , the Black Church. It is considered to be the largest Gothic church on the route between Vienna and Istanbul . Its original German name was Marienkirche.

However, the church took its new name after 1689, the year of Brasov’s Great Fire. The latter destroyed most of the town and blackened the church’s walls. During the summer months, the Black Church hosts splendid organ concerts. Just look for the programme posted outside the church.

Strada Sforii , the Rope Street

It’s fun as well as kind of spooky to walk along one of the narrowest streets in Europe. Strada Sforii has become one of the main tourist attractions in Brasov Old Town. Who would have guessed that it was originally constructed in the 15th century as a passage to facilitate firefighters on duty?

2. Walk along Brasov’s fortifications

Throughout its long history, Brasov was often under attack so the Saxons who lived there decided to build strong defensive fortifications around the town. Not all of them survive to this day but Brasov boasts a fair share of fabulous spots where one can enjoy a travel through time.

Strada Dupa Ziduri

Strada Dupa Ziduri , a beautiful street in the western part of Brasov, is a real treat for walking lovers. As its name suggests, this street follows the route behind the walls of Brasov Old Town. Strada Dupa Ziduri runs along a pretty stream and it offers views of some of the oldest fortifications in Brasov.

The White Tower and the Black Tower are among the most famous ones. However, don’t go looking for a black tower. There isn’t one. The tower was struck by lightning and caught fire back in 1559, hence the name. You can’t miss it though thanks to its futuristic pyramid-shaped glass roof.

Catherine’s Gate

The wonderful cake-like construction is the only original city gate that has survived in Brasov since medieval times. It took its name from St Catherine’s monastery which used to be located there. Catherine’s Gate is a significant landmark for the city of Brasov due to the important role it played in medieval times.

When Transylvanian Saxons inhabited Brasov, Romanians were banned from the city. They weren’t allowed to own property or live within the city’s walls. They could only enter Brasov for a fee at specific times for commercial purposes. Catherine’s Gate was the only gate they were allowed to use.

3. Stroll around Schei district

So where did Romanians use to live in medieval Brasov? They settled right outside the city’s walls in the famous Schei district. The latter is a super picturesque area with small houses built along narrow cobbled streets. Schei district has the charm of a traditional village surrounded as it is by a scenic mountainous landscape. It’s home to a couple of must-see attractions in Brasov as well.

The Orthodox Church of St. Nicholas dominates the district. It stands out in terms of both size and splendour. Right next to the church, the first Romanian school is located. This was the first school in the country where students were taught in the Romanian Language.

4. Get a glimpse of Romania’s recent past

One of the main reasons we like Romania so much is the vast amount of recent history it has in store for all history buffs out there. In Brasov, the Memorial to victims of the 1989 Revolution and the Heroes’ Cemetery are there to remind everyone of the city’s communist past.

They are both easily accessible from the Old Town. A pleasant stroll along pedestrianised Strada Republicii until the latter meets Bulevardul Eroilor , the Heroes Boulevard, and you’re there.

Learn more about Romania’s recent and troubled past here!

5. Climb Mount Tampa for breathtaking views

One of the things we found utterly fascinating about Brasov is the beauty of the peaceful green mountain slopes surrounding it. Tampa Mountain with its Hollywood-style sign rises right above the very heart of Brasov Old Town. There is a viewing platform near the top which is accessible by both a cable car and a hiking path. The views of the city of Brasov must be stunning.

Hey, wait, what? Must be ? As in, you haven’t climbed Mount Tampa yourselves ? Sadly, not. On both days we stayed in Brasov we were out exploring all day so we’d come back a bit too late for either riding the cable car or going on a 1-hour hike.

Katerina and I have developed a weird habit after all those years we’ve been travelling together. We tend to skip a must-see or two of the destinations we visit and leave them for next time. This way we do our best to make absolutely sure that there will be a next time.

Therefore, true to our habit, we left the stunning views for next time. Yet, it is one of those things we honestly believe is worth checking out even though we haven’t. Just make sure to check the cable car opening times when you visit.

6. Join a free walking tour

You know we love walking tours and we try to join one every time we visit some place new. Brasov couldn’t be an exception. We joined the free afternoon tour offered by Walkabout Free Tours on our first day in Brasov and we liked it a lot. This tour provides a wealth of information about the city of Brasov and covers pretty much everything in the Old Town and the Schei district alike.

Don’t miss it, especially if visiting for a short time. In 2,5 hours you get to know everything there is to know about Brasov, plus a couple of inside local tips. Our guide handed out city maps to all of us as well. For more information, check out the Walkabout Free Tours website .

7. Plan day trips from Brasov

As I mentioned right at the beginning of this post, Brasov is the perfect base to explore the stunning Transylvania region. There are many things to do near Brasov and day trip ideas are endless. Here are just a few suggestions to get you started. It helps to consult a guidebook in order to plan your time and routes in the best possible way. We almost always rely on a Lonely Planet guidebook for the general planning of our trips and we did so for our Romania trip as well.

Grab your own Lonely Planet copy here!

Pay a visit to Dracula Castle

Perhaps the most famous of all the castles that dot the Romanian countryside is Bran Castle, also known as Dracula Castle. Whether the stories connecting Bran Castle to Count Dracula are accurate or not, Bran Castle certainly deserves your time and attention. Not to mention that it is one of the easiest day trips from Brasov.

Bran Castle is a 40′ drive from Brasov. Apart from the fact that traffic can be unbearably heavy, it is an easy and scenic drive. Alternatively, you can reach Bran Castle by bus or taxi from Brasov. This tour will not only take you to Dracula Castle but to other fascinating castles around Brasov, too.

Find out the true story behind Bran Castle and learn how to get there from Brasov!

Go castle hunting in Transylvania

Bran may be the most popular but certainly not the only castle in Transylvania that is worth a visit. The region is home to many spectacular castles, like Peles Castle and Rasnov Fortress, to name but a few. Brasov’s location makes it the ideal base to plan a castle-hunting road trip.

Read everything you need to know to plan your own castle-hunting trip in Romania!

If you don’t drive, fear not. There are many companies which operate tours from Brasov to all nearby castles. Join a tour of the Romanian landscape and visit 3 castles in a day from Brasov!

Visit enchanting Sighisoara

The medieval town of Sighisoara is beyond words pretty. No visitor could possibly get enough of its pastel-coloured buildings and narrow cobbled streets. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the citadel of Sighisoara guarantees its visitors an amazing trip back in time.

Enjoy a 2-hour city tour in Sighisoara!

Read all about the time we spent in Sighisoara here!

Brasov Travel Guide

How to get to brasov.

All international travellers will most probably reach Brasov from Romania’s capital, Bucharest. As soon as we landed at Bucharest’s Henri Coanda airport, we picked up our rental car and started our road trip towards Transylvania. Other than driving, the more affordable way to get from Bucharest to Brasov is by train or bus. Click here for more information on the public transport options available.

Inspiration Alert! Our Bucharest travel guide is here!

If you want to get to Brasov as comfortably and hassle-free as possible, perhaps you should consider a private airport transfer. For the latter, we would recommend Hoppa.com whose services we have actually tried ourselves and found to be really satisfying.

Check out all available transfer options on your dates!

Last but not least, if driving is not an option and you only have time for an overnight stay in Brasov, maybe you should consider joining a group tour so as to save valuable time and energy.

Go on a comfortable 2-day trip to Brasov from Bucharest!

Where to stay in Brasov

When it comes to finding a place to stay in Brasov, make sure it’s in the Old Town. The ambience is unique and you really want to be as close to Piata Sfatului as possible. Romania has seen an increase in prices lately but, still, it remains one of the most budget-friendly destinations we’ve ever been to. Staying in the heart of medieval Brasov is really affordable so there is no excuse for choosing accommodation outside the Old Town.

We stayed at Casa Roth Apartments for less than 45€/night and we can say it was one of the finest stays we’ve enjoyed to date. The room was spotlessly clean and our host, Daria, was the sweetest person we encountered on our entire Romania trip. The highlight of our stay though was the fact that our room was just a tiny back alley away from Piata Sfatului .

Check dates and availability and book your room in Brasov Old City!

Where to eat in Brasov

Brasov was the very first stop on our Romania road trip so we couldn’t wait to try as many local delicacies as possible. This is why we had both our dinners at two of the most well-known traditional restaurants in the city. We loved the warm cellar-like interiors of both Bella Muzica and Sergiana restaurants.

Foodwise, it turns out we’re not that great fans of Romanian cuisine. However, we kept on trying some of the country’s most typical dishes throughout our entire trip. Moreover, Brasov Old Town is full of food trucks and small shops selling crepes, clatite  in Romanian, and other sweet and savoury treats.

Useful Travel Tips

Currency: Romanian Leu ( Lei in plural). Credit cards are accepted in the vast majority of restaurants, bars, supermarkets etc. Payments in euros may also be accepted if agreed upon in advance. For instance, we paid for our accommodation in Euro but we had previously checked with our host that we could do so.

Languages spoken: The official language is Romanian. In Brasov, almost everyone in restaurants, bars etc could speak English. Road Traffic:  If you are driving, traffic can be a real nuisance. On our way from Bucharest to Brasov, traffic was unbelievably heavy. Keep in mind that most of Transylvania consists of one-lane roads rather than highways. This means that, especially on weekends and high season, you should consider a very early start so as to avoid getting stuck in traffic.

Best time to visit Brasov: Summer, summer, summer. We visited mid-July and even then it was quite chilly in the evening. Unless you are a snow and cold weather enthusiast, summer, late spring and early autumn are the best times to visit Brasov so as to make the most of long days and enjoy sitting outdoors in this little gem of a city.

Now that you know what to do in Brasov, what are you waiting for? Book those tickets! Don’t hesitate to contact us for any questions you may have. La revedere!

Fancy driving one of the world’s most scenic routes? The Transfagarasan Highway awaits!

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Hi Maria 🙂 So glad to see this thorough list of things to do in Brasov. And yes! Finally, I see someone recommending Brasov as a base for exploring the surroundings! What’s so special about people watching 🙂 I keep seeing this activity among many blogs of travelers who visited Brasov. Dupa Ziduri street is indeed worth visiting and most of the time it is mostly overlooked. During the last year, some things have changed here, so there’s another reason to visit Brasov again, I hope… About Catherine’s Gate… did you know that the four turrets around the main tower meant that the community had the right to apply capital punishment? Luckily, it’s not the case now! Oh, and congrats for mentioning the Heroes’ Cemetery and monument. The Revolution in 1989 was a tragic event which still has repercussions even today. Unfortunately, many young people tend to forget about the sacrifice people made more than 30 years ago 🙁

Hey Robert, thanks so much for your feedback! Yes, we learnt everything about Catherine’s Gate during a free walking tour we enjoyed in Brasov. Once we’re able to travel internationally again, we do hope we can visit Brasov again!

I completely fell in love with this vibrant city:)

So did we! How could we not after all? 🙂

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7 Awesome Things to Do in Brasov, Romania @twodriftersxo

Brasov, Romania is perhaps the most well-known of destinations in this fantastic Eastern European nation. If you haven’t been to Romania, it is absolutely worth a visit. From beautiful nature and abundant wildlife to spectacular castles and exciting history and culture, this is a country with so much in store. And if that wasn’t enough to convince you, you should know that Romania is incredibly affordable.

Brasov is the capital of Transylvania, and with lots to see and do, it quickly became one of our favorite cities in Europe. After spending nearly three months in Romania , we’d love to share some of the highlights. Here are seven awesome things to do in Brasov.

• My Itinerary in Bucharest, Romania & Experience Staying at Athenee Palace Hilton Bucharest
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• Weekend Trip from London – 15 Budget Cities in Europe to Visit
• Our Latest Travel Plans and How We Find Cheap Flights!

Table of Contents

1.  Take a free walking tour with a local guide

There’s nothing quite like exploring a new city with a knowledgeable local. And if the opportunity is free? Even better! With the Walkabout free Brasov tour, you can spend between 2 and 3 hours discovering all things Romania. This is a great way to start off your visit to Brasov, familiarizing yourself with the layout of the city and getting the vital details on all the top spots. While the tour is free, tips are optional and highly appreciated by your friendly local guides. Tours depart daily at 3 pm, rain or shine.

2.  Get lost in a European fairytale.

After you’ve been guided around the city of Brasov, it’s time to get lost. This centuries-old city is not only beautiful; but it’s also a downright fairytale experience. We especially loved exploring in the winter months, when the frequent snowfalls turned the medieval city into a magical snowglobe. As you wander the streets, head out from the main Council Square and to the edges of Brasov’s old town. Venturing beyond the city walls, you’ll find trees, hiking trails, and exciting architecture around every bend. You will quickly discover that nature and history abound within this European gem.

We felt so incredibly safe during our two months in Brasov , and this makes it a perfect place to wander freely and explore. The old city center (or Centrul Vechi) offers winding streets, pastel buildings, and the backdrop of a towering mountainside. In the summer, Tampa Mountain is lush and green—in the winter the trees showcase a light dusting of snow. In all seasons, you can enjoy the Hollywood-style Brasov sign shining like a beacon above the city. Keep your eyes out for the sign at nighttime; it is illuminated, and you can’t miss it.

3.  Dig into traditional Romanian food.

You certainly won’t go hungry while traveling in Brasov. There are so many delicious restaurants and cafes that your biggest challenge will be deciding where to go. We highly recommend sampling some of the rich, flavorful Romanian cuisines. Some of the popular traditional dishes include sarmale (cabbage-wrapped rolls filled with minced meat), smoked pork knuckle with beans, and polenta with cheese and sour cream (which quickly became one of my favorites). If you’re a meat lover (like my husband Nathan), you will love Romanian food! Need some guidance on where to dine? We loved Ursul Carpatin, Restaurant Transylvania, and Le Ceaun.

4.  Visit “Dracula’s” castle.

Just an hour’s bus ride away is the town of Bran, home to the famous Bran Castle. Why is this castle famous? The primary reason is that this castle may have provided the inspiration for the castle in Bram Stoker’s 1897 novel Dracula . At any rate, Bran Castle certainly matches the description of Dracula’s abode: a castle high on a hill in the mysterious region of Transylvania. Although there is some uncertainty as to whether or not Vlad the Impaler (the real historical figure sometimes associated with Dracula) spent time in Bran Castle, records suggest he may have been imprisoned there some two months, and at the very least, he did pass through the area. Whatever you think of the Dracula myth, Bran Castle is definitely worth a visit. The town of Bran is small and quaint, with the castle towering over it on a rocky precipice. The castle is very cheerful inside with interesting decor and plenty of historical information. It’s a wonderful place to transport yourself back in time.

5.  Go people-watching in the Piata Sfatului.

One of the most singularly beautiful spots in Brasov is the Council Square or Piata Sfatului. This open area is home to the Old City Hall (1420) which today contains the Brasov History Museum. Admission is very affordable, so stop by the history museum to grab a quick understanding of the local story. Then, head back out the square and immerse yourself in the present.

In one direction, you’ll observe the iconic tower of the Black Church, with Tampa Mountain just behind it. In the opposite direction are the lively shopping streets of the old town. In the Piata Sfatului, itself are many delightful restaurants and cafes. In warm weather, these open their doors and invite you to sit in the sunshine on the square itself. As you sip your coffee (or a glass of the Romanian plum brandy known as tuica), you can watch the world go by. Balloon vendors, children playing, happy tourists, and plenty of pigeons: the central square is where the action is, and where you’ll get a great taste of Romanian city life.

6.  Check out the incredible bear sanctuary nearby.

Eastern Europe has an enormous bear and wolf population. Sadly, this has resulted in some poor treatment of wildlife. In years past, mostly in more rural areas of Romania, bears were sometimes caged and used as “attractions” to draw in customers. The Libearty Bear Sanctuary was created in the early 2000s as a rescue organization, and to provide a place for these mistreated bears to find a happy home. Not far from Brasov, in Zarnesti, the sanctuary is open to visitors, welcoming those who would love to see the bears and support the wonderful work of the sanctuary. Visiting hours are very limited, however, and are only during bear feeding times in the mornings. Check the website for availability and more information.

7.  See the city of Brasov from up high!

Brasov, Romania is gorgeous from many perspectives, but seeing it from above is second-to-none. From up high, you can take in the iconic red roofs so common in Eastern European architecture. There are several vantage points that can provide you with an amazing view. The easiest option is to climb to the White Tower, which you can see from the Piata Sfatului itself. A quick walk takes you outside the city walls and to the stairs leading up to the tower. Once you’ve climbed to the top, you’re rewarded with awesome views overlooking the city. Be warned; the climb is short but steep. Prepare to breathe a little heavy for a few minutes!

To take in the opposite perspective, go up to Tampa Mountain. Hiking trails can take you there in the warm seasons, but throughout the year, you can opt for the famous cable car to the top. This is a must-do in Brasov, and a round-trip ticket will set you back just 16 lei per person (approximately $4 USD. The views from atop Tampa Mountain stretch for miles on a clear day, and a quick walk to the summit takes you to the Brasov sign itself.

8. Find accommodation in Brasov, Romania

Where to Stay in Brasov, Romania

Although for a long-term stay we highly recommend our incredible experience with Airbnb , there are many options for short-term accommodation in Brasov that are worth considering.

Best Budget Hostel in Brasov, Romania –  Hostel Centrum House Brasov

Centrum House Hostel is located on the main pedestrian street in the Old Town of Brașov, where you will find many pubs, bars, restaurants, and shops. Free WiFi is offered.

Centrum House offers mostly bunk beds in dormitories with shared bathrooms, most of them located in the room. Some bathrooms are also located in the hallway. Rooms with private bathroom facilities are also available. This hostel offers private tours to the famous Bran Castle, known as Dracula’s Castle, Rasnov Fortress, Peles Castle, Sighisoara and other destinations, including a traditional meal at the on-site bistro.

Best Mid-Range Hotel in Brasov, Romania –  Casa Tohaneana

Located in Tohanu Nou, a 3-minute drive from Bran Castle, Casa Tohaneana offers free WiFi, a fitness center, a massage service and a terrace with free barbecue facilities. A bus stop is 50 m away, and free public parking is available in front of the building.

The rooms at the Tohaneana are fitted with wooden furnishings and come with cable TV and a private bathroom with a shower. A common lounge area equipped with sofas and armchairs can also be found on the site.

Best Luxury Hotel in Brasov, Romania – Guesthouse Drachenhaus

Overlooking Mount Tampa and the historic medieval quarter of Brasov, Drachenhaus is located within 200 m from the pedestrian area of the Republicii Street, Council Square and Black Church in Braşov. It welcomes guests with a restaurant and bar.

Set in a historic 19th-century building, the rooms feature reconditioned furniture, hardwood acacia and oak floors, Saxon wool carpeting and Italian Tivoli travertine in the bathrooms. Each comes with a flat-screen TV with cable channels. Located on the upper floors, some rooms feature garden views. Drachenhaus features free WiFi throughout the property, and wired internet is also available in the rooms.

A la carte breakfast options are available for guests each morning, and breakfast can also be served in the room. You will find a gift shop at the property. Guests can enjoy various activities in the surroundings, including cycling and hiking. Black Church is 400 m from Drachenhaus, while Brasov Synagogue is 400 m from the property.

Brasov, Romania is truly a delight, and we guarantee this beautiful and highly affordable destination is one you’ll remember for years to come!

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One thought on “ 7 Awesome Things to Do in Brasov, Romania @twodriftersxo ”

Hi, I saw you went to see the bears at the Sanctuary. Indeed, what they’re doing there is fantastic but at the same time, a bit sad, knowing what those bears endured in their lifetime 🙁 Have you considered bear watching? I know you’ve been here during wintertime, but in the rest of the year, bear watching offers guests the possibility of seeing these beautiful animals in the wild, rather than in a sanctuary of enclosed area. Sometimes, even from 2 meters away… of course, from inside a safe bear hide.

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Home > Romania Travel Blog - Brasov, Bucharest & Beyond

Romania Travel Blog – Brasov, Bucharest & Beyond

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BRASOV TOURIST GUIDE

BRASOV TOURIST GUIDE: your ultimate companion for an unforgettable journey through the charming city of Brasov

Welcome to the ultimate Brasov Tourist Guide, your comprehensive source for exploring the picturesque city of Brasov, located in the heart of Romania. This guide is designed to help you make the most of your visit, providing in-depth information on the city’s history, culture, and natural beauty. As you follow the Brasov Tourist Guide, you will uncover the many attractions and hidden gems that make this destination a must-visit for travelers from around the world.

Historic Highlights – Brasov Tourist Guide

The Brasov Tourist Guide begins with a thorough exploration of the city’s rich history, beautifully preserved in its medieval architecture and historic landmarks. Some of the must-see attractions include:

Council Square (Piata Sfatului): The heart of the city, Council Square is surrounded by colorful baroque buildings and boasts the impressive Black Church and Council House. The square has been the center of social and economic life in Brasov for centuries and continues to host lively events and markets today. As you wander the square with the Brasov Tourist Guide, you’ll learn about its history and the significance of the various architectural styles.

The Black Church (Biserica Neagra): One of the most iconic landmarks in Brasov, the Black Church is the largest Gothic church in Romania. The Brasov Tourist Guide will take you through the church’s stunning architecture, intricate frescoes, and impressive collection of Oriental carpets. You’ll also learn about the history of the church, including the great fire of 1689 that led to its name.

The Schei District: The Brasov Tourist Guide highlights this historic neighborhood that was once home to Brasov’s Romanian population. The area features narrow streets lined with traditional houses, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. The district is also home to the beautiful Saint Nicholas Church and the First Romanian School Museum, both of which the Brasov Tourist Guide will provide fascinating insights into.

The Fortress of Brasov (Cetățuia de pe Strajă): This impressive fortress, located on a hill overlooking the city, is another historic highlight covered in the Brasov Tourist Guide. Built in the 16th century for defensive purposes, the fortress has been well-preserved and now houses a museum. The Brasov Tourist Guide will explain the strategic importance of the fortress and its role in the city’s history.

Cultural Experiences – Brasov Tourist Guide

The Brasov Tourist Guide showcases the city’s vibrant cultural scene, offering a wealth of opportunities to explore Romania’s artistic traditions and heritage. Some of the cultural experiences you can enjoy include:

Museums: The Brasov Tourist Guide introduces you to a variety of fascinating museums, such as the Brasov History Museum, the Ethnographic Museum, and the Art Museum. These institutions showcase the city’s rich history, traditional crafts, and local artistic talent. The Brasov Tourist Guide provides detailed information on each museum, including its collections, exhibitions, and unique features.

Theaters and Concerts: The Brasov Tourist Guide highlights the city’s performing arts scene, with venues like the Brasov State Philharmonic and the Sica Alexandrescu Theater, where you can enjoy high-quality performances in music, theater, and dance. The Brasov Tourist Guide also covers the various festivals and cultural events throughout the year, including the Brasov International Film Festival and the Junii Feast.

Culinary Delights: The Brasov Tourist Guide delves into the city’s diverse culinary scene, offering visitors the chance to savor traditional Romanian dishes, as well as international cuisine. The guide provides recommendations for the best places to try local specialties like sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), mici (grilled minced meat rolls), and papanasi (sweet cheese dumplings). Additionally, the Brasov Tourist Guide offers suggestions for cafes, restaurants, and bars where you can indulge in delicious chimney cakes (kurtoskalacs) and sample local wines.

Local Markets: Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Brasov’s markets with the help of the Brasov Tourist Guide. Shop for fresh produce, traditional crafts, and unique souvenirs at the city’s main market, Piata Dacia, or explore smaller markets scattered throughout the city. The Brasov Tourist Guide provides insights into the best markets to visit and tips for navigating them like a local. Natural Wonders – Brasov Tourist Guide

The Brasov Tourist Guide showcases the city’s stunning natural surroundings, offering detailed information on the best outdoor attractions and activities. Some of the highlights include:

Tampa Mountain: The Brasov Tourist Guide highlights this easily accessible mountain that offers stunning views of Brasov and the surrounding area. Visitors can take a leisurely hike to the top or ride the cable car for a more relaxed experience. The guide provides practical information on the various trails and the cable car schedule.

Piatra Craiului National Park and Bucegi Natural Park: The Brasov Tourist Guide emphasizes these nearby parks as excellent opportunities to explore the breathtaking Carpathian Mountains and enjoy activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and wildlife watching. The guide offers detailed information on the parks’ trails, flora and fauna, as well as tips for responsible and safe exploration.

Seven Ladders Canyon: The Brasov Tourist Guide encourages visitors to embark on an adrenaline-pumping adventure at this spectacular canyon, where a series of metal ladders and walkways allow for a thrilling exploration of the area’s waterfalls and limestone cliffs. The guide provides essential information on how to reach the canyon, safety precautions, and what to expect during the excursion.

Day Trips and Beyond – Brasov Tourist Guide

The Brasov Tourist Guide also offers suggestions for exciting day trips and excursions that allow you to explore the wider region:

Sighisoara: The Brasov Tourist Guide recommends a visit to this UNESCO World Heritage-listed town, famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant history. The guide provides a comprehensive itinerary for exploring the town’s cobbled streets, visiting the Clock Tower, and delving into the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula.

Sibiu: Another stunning medieval city, Sibiu is highlighted in the Brasov Tourist Guide for its colorful baroque buildings, impressive fortifications, and lively cultural scene. The guide offers a detailed plan for visiting attractions like the Brukenthal National Museum, the Council Tower, and the fascinating ASTRA Museum of Traditional Folk Civilization.

Peles Castle: The Brasov Tourist Guide features this magnificent castle located in the picturesque town of Sinaia. Peles Castle is a stunning example of Neo-Renaissance architecture and was once the summer residence of the Romanian royal family. The guide provides information on how to reach the castle, the best times to visit, and what to expect during a tour of its lavishly decorated rooms and impressive art collection.

Transportation and Accommodation – Brasov Tourist Guide

The Brasov Tourist Guide is also your go-to resource for practical information on transportation and accommodation options to ensure a seamless and enjoyable visit:

Transportation: The Brasov Tourist Guide provides essential information on the various modes of transportation available to help you reach and navigate the city with ease. Brasov is well-connected by train, bus, and car from major Romanian cities like Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca. The city’s efficient public transportation system, including buses and taxis, ensures convenient and reliable travel during your stay. The Brasov Tourist Guide also covers bike rental services, offering tips and recommendations for exploring the city on two wheels.

Accommodation: The Brasov Tourist Guide features a comprehensive list of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. From luxurious hotels and charming guesthouses to budget-friendly hostels and vacation rentals, you’re sure to find the perfect place to rest and recharge after a day of adventure. The guide includes detailed information on each type of accommodation, including location, amenities, and price range, to help you make an informed decision.

Shopping and Souvenirs – Brasov Tourist Guide

The Brasov Tourist Guide encourages visitors to indulge in some retail therapy and bring home unique souvenirs that reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage. Some of the best shopping experiences in Brasov include:

Strada Republicii: The Brasov Tourist Guide highlights this pedestrian street as the city’s main shopping hub. Lined with an array of boutiques, shops, and galleries, you’ll find everything from stylish clothing and accessories to local handicrafts and artwork.

Artisan Workshops: The Brasov Tourist Guide recommends visiting local artisan workshops to witness traditional crafts being made and purchase unique, handmade items. Some of the popular crafts in Brasov include pottery, woodcarving, and glass painting. The guide provides information on the best workshops to visit and what to expect during your visit.

Local Delicacies: Don’t leave Brasov without sampling and bringing home some of its delicious local products. The Brasov Tourist Guide suggests purchasing items like Romanian wines, handmade chocolates, or a selection of locally produced honey and jams. The guide offers recommendations for the best places to find these delectable treats.

Souvenir Shops: The Brasov Tourist Guide provides a list of the best souvenir shops in the city, where you can find a wide array of items to remind you of your time in Brasov. From traditional Romanian clothing and accessories to hand-painted ceramics and wooden folk art, you’re sure to find the perfect memento.

In Conclusion

The Brasov Tourist Guide is your ultimate companion for an unforgettable journey through the charming city of Brasov and its surrounding regions. With its extensive coverage of the city’s history, culture, and natural beauty, as well as practical information on transportation, accommodation, and shopping, the guide ensures that you make the most of your visit and leave with lasting memories of this enchanting destination. So, embark on your adventure with the Brasov Tourist Guide and discover the magic that awaits in the heart of Romania.

BRASOV TOURIST GUIDE 2023

BRASOV TRAVEL GUIDE

BRASOV TRAVEL GUIDE: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

Welcome to the Enchanting World of Brasov: A Comprehensive Travel Guide

As you embark on your journey through this Brasov travel guide, prepare to be enchanted by the city’s rich history, captivating architecture, vibrant culture, and enticing culinary scene. Nestled in the heart of Romania’s Carpathian Mountains, the charming city of Brasov beckons travelers with its delightful blend of medieval charm, natural wonders, and modern amenities. This comprehensive Brasov travel guide will help you make the most of your trip to this must-visit destination.

Historical and Cultural Treasures

One of the main highlights of this Brasov travel guide is exploring the city’s fascinating past, which dates back to the 13th century. Begin your journey at the picturesque Council Square (Piata Sfatului), the historic center of Brasov. Surrounded by colorful baroque buildings and bustling cafes, the square serves as the perfect introduction to the city’s rich architectural heritage. The Council House, a striking building situated in the square, houses the Brasov History Museum. This Brasov travel guide recommends spending some time here, learning about the city’s evolution over the centuries and its role as a significant trade center.

No Brasov travel guide is complete without a visit to the iconic Black Church (Biserica Neagra), a stunning example of Gothic architecture and the largest Lutheran church in Romania. Marvel at the church’s intricate frescoes, grand organ, and impressive collection of Oriental carpets, some of which date back to the 17th century. Additionally, the church offers weekly organ concerts, providing a unique opportunity to experience the power of its remarkable acoustics.

As you continue your journey through this Brasov travel guide, immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring the Schei District, a neighborhood featuring traditional houses, narrow streets, and a strong Romanian identity. Visit the beautiful Saint Nicholas Church, a striking Orthodox church adorned with frescoes and wood carvings, and the First Romanian School Museum, where you’ll gain insight into the city’s religious and educational history.

Culinary Delights of Brasov

Brasov travel guide also offers a chance to discover the city’s thriving culinary scene. Indulge in traditional Romanian dishes such as sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), mici (grilled minced meat rolls), or ciorbă de burtă (tripe soup) at one of the many local restaurants. For a truly authentic experience, this Brasov travel guide suggests dining at Sergiana or Roata, both of which are known for their traditional Romanian dishes and warm, inviting atmosphere.

As evening falls, enjoy the lively atmosphere of Brasov’s pubs and bars. Sample local craft beers at Berăria Ciucas or sip on Romanian wines at Terroirs Boutique du Vin. Whether you’re in the mood for a quiet drink, live music, or a night of dancing, this Brasov travel guide assures you that the city’s bustling nightlife is the perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing and cultural exploration.

Outdoor Adventures and Natural Wonders

For those who love the great outdoors, this Brasov travel guide provides an abundance of opportunities to connect with nature. The nearby Carpathian Mountains boast stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and mountain biking to rock climbing and wildlife watching. Explore the breathtaking beauty of Piatra Craiului National Park, home to diverse flora and fauna, including the elusive Carpathian lynx. Alternatively, venture to the Bucegi Natural Park, where fascinating rock formations such as the Sphinx and Babele await your discovery.

Local Attractions and Engaging Activities

This Brasov travel guide is not limited to the city itself. The surrounding region is home to a wealth of attractions that can be explored on day trips. Visit the legendary Bran Castle, often referred to as “Dracula’s Castle,” to delve into the myths and history surrounding this iconic fortress. While its connection to Vlad the Impaler is tenuous, the castle’s stunning architecture and surrounding landscapes make it a must-see during your journey through this Brasov travel guide. Alternatively, step back in time with a visit to the medieval citadel of Sighișoara, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you can wander the cobblestone streets, visit the Clock Tower and the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, and explore the well-preserved fortified walls and towers.

Throughout your Brasov travel guide experience, you’ll find countless opportunities for unique and memorable activities. Consider a guided tour of the city’s historic landmarks or a leisurely bike ride through the picturesque streets. For the more adventurous, try paragliding or zip-lining through the Carpathian Mountains. Culture enthusiasts will appreciate a relaxing evening at the Reduta Cultural Centre, which hosts concerts, theatrical performances, and art exhibitions.

Brasov’s Surrounding Gems

During your journey through this Brasov travel guide, consider venturing to the nearby attractions that showcase the region’s rich history and natural beauty. Discover the imposing Râșnov Fortress, a medieval citadel perched atop a rocky hill, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Learn about its history and explore the small museum that showcases the area’s past.

Another must-visit destination during your Brasov travel guide adventure is Peleș Castle, located in the town of Sinaia. This neo-Renaissance masterpiece, once the summer residence of the Romanian royal family, now serves as a museum. Explore the castle’s opulent interiors, featuring exquisite wood carvings, Murano glass chandeliers, and a vast collection of European art and armor.

This Brasov travel guide promises a captivating journey through time, culture, nature, and gastronomy. From the city’s historic center to the awe-inspiring Carpathian Mountains, there is no shortage of experiences to be had in this enchanting Romanian city. Allow yourself to be swept away by the charm and magic of this Brasov travel guide, and create lasting memories that you’ll treasure for a lifetime. Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or a culture aficionado, this Brasov travel guide caters to every interest and taste, ensuring an unforgettable experience.

By following this Brasov travel guide, you can be confident that you’ll experience the best of what this magnificent city has to offer. From the bustling streets of the historic center to the serene landscapes of the Carpathian Mountains, Brasov is a destination that will leave you captivated and longing to return. So pack your bags, immerse yourself in this comprehensive Brasov travel guide, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the enchanting world of Brasov.

BRASOV TRAVEL GUIDE 2023

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Romania Travel Tips

Last Updated: November 2, 2023

I had no idea what to expect when I first visited Romania. Beyond the stereotypical vampire myths and legends of Transylvania, I knew shockingly little about the country.

What I found on arrival was a budget-friendly destination brimming with hearty food, amazing natural landscapes, and a fraction of the tourists found elsewhere in Europe .

The country has a long (and turbulent) history stretching back thousands of years. It was annexed by numerous powers over the centuries, including the Romans, the Byzantines, the Holy Roman Empire, Hungary, and the Soviets (who left a particularly dark stain on the country’s history).

While Romania used to be far off the beaten path, in recent years, the country’s tourism numbers have been increasing. That said, it’s still relatively undiscovered compared to countries in Western and Central Europe and its charming historic cities with cobblestone streets and medieval architecture is both affordable and rarely crowded.

I love Romania to bits and I strongly, strongly encourage you to take the country slowly and spend extra time here. It’s a massive country perfect for road-tripping, hiking, and history buffs.

This travel guide to Romania can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Romania

Click Here for City Guides

Top 5 things to see and do in romania.

1. Explore Brasov

Located in the historical region of Transylvania and surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains, Brasov is one of the best-preserved cities in Romania. Due to its location in the center of the country, the city has long been a hub for commercial and cultural activities (it was even the birthplace of Romania’s national anthem). Today, the city is best known to travelers as the launching pad for trips to “Dracula’s castle” (which isn’t actually his castle but is still a fun one to visit). There’s a bit of everything here, including great hiking nearby, a beautiful historic center, and charming medieval streets. The city also offers a wide variety of food, from local Romanian fare to tasty international dishes. Stay awhile and really soak in this cultural capital.

2. Wander Bucharest

Bucharest boasts a healthy mix of Neoclassical and Beaux-Arts buildings and communist-style concrete blocks. By European standards, it’s a relatively young city, and in recent years has become a tech hub for local and European startups as well as digital nomads. There are plenty of museums, cemeteries, historical sites, shopping centers, and architectural sights to check out here. Some of the main sights include the gigantic Palace of Parliament, the Romanian Patriarchal Cathedral, the ethnographic Village Museum, Revolution Square, and the Ceausescu Mansion.

3. Trek the Fagaras Mountains

The Fagaras Mountains are the highest mountains in the Southern Carpathians and one of the most popular places in the country to go hiking. You can go on an awesome multi-day trekking experience that takes you along the main ridge of the Fagaras. The route is one of the longest and most continuous high-mountain traverses in Europe. Hikers can trek over Moldoveanu, Negoiu, and Vista Mare — three of Romania’s highest peaks that all tower over 2,500 meters (approximately 8,300 feet).

4. Visit Sibiu

Visiting Sibiu is like stepping back into the Middle Ages. Located in the historical region of Transylvania, the city was the capital of the region at various points throughout history. Cobblestone streets, ancient town squares, castle walls, and historic buildings — this city has everything you want in an old European city but without the crowds found elsewhere. It has a wonderful medieval charm, beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes, excellent food, and lots of green space. Don’t miss the Brukenthal Museum, the Citadel, and the unique Baroque eyebrow dormers that earned the city the nickname “The City with Eyes.”

5. See the painted monasteries in Bucovina

These Romanian Orthodox monasteries in the northeastern edge of the country are striking in that they have their exterior walls painted with elaborate 15th- and 16th-century frescoes featuring saints, prophets, Jesus, and other religious scenes. The walls are a masterpiece of Byzantine art and a pilgrimage destination for Romanian Orthodox believers. Eight of the monasteries have been designated a collective UNESCO World Heritage Site too.

Other Things to See and Do in Romania

1. see the alexandru borza botanic gardens.

Located in Cluj-Napoca , this massive botanical garden features rolling green hills, an observation tower, a rose garden, and even a Japanese garden. Founded in 1872, the garden is home to over 10,000 plants and spans 35 acres. There are greenhouses, ponds, and a wide variety of regional gardens with plants from all around the world. Admission is 15 RON per person (RON when the greenhouses are closed).

2. Get a cultural immersion in Maramures

This medieval region of Romania is one of my favorites. The traditional culture here is thriving and there is an interesting blend of local music, hand-made wooden structures, and colorful textiles to experience. Each village has a large wooden church and intricate wooden gates that are hand-carved (woodworking is a tradition here that goes back centuries). There are unique cemeteries as well, stemming from their belief that the afterlife is a beginning, not an end. For example, instead of solemn words on stone tombstones, there are blue wooden crosses with funny verses about the deceased. Don’t miss the Memorial Museum to the Victims of Communism & to the Resistance and the Elie Wiesel Memorial House (Wiesel was a famous Romanian-American who wrote the book Night about his experiences during the Holocaust.).

3. Hike at Mount Tampa

Towering above Brasov, this mountain is great for a quick hike if you’re looking to get a view overlooking the city. The mountain also has a large sign similar to the white “Hollywood” sign in Los Angeles . While the hike is pretty easy and takes less than an hour (the mountain is just 1,000 meters/3,280 feet high), there is also a cable car you can ride to the summit for 18 RON (round trip).

4. Visit the Romanian Patriarchal Cathedral

This cathedral in Bucharest was completed in 1659 and still has all of its original interior paintings and icons, in addition to some beautiful frescoes (most of the frescoes are reconstructions). The exterior façade was designed in the Brancovenesc style and the interior is lavishly ornate, spacious, and colorful. The acapella choir is particularly impressive to listen to. Admission is free but dress conservatively as this is a place of ongoing worship.

5. See the wildlife in Northern Dobruja

Tucked away in the southeastern corner of the county, this region is home to over 400 species of birds as well as lots of wildlife. It’s a hilly expanse with over a dozen lakes, and more to be found just over the border in Bulgaria . It’s one of the best regions to explore by car as you can hop from town to town. Be sure to spend some time in the coastal city of Constanta, the oldest continuously inhabited city in Romania (it was founded in 600 BCE).

6. Visit the Danube Delta

Flowing over 3,000 kilometers (1,864 miles) from its source in Germany , this is Europe’s second-largest and best-preserved delta (the Volga is the largest). The Danube stretches through 10 countries — more than any other river in the world — before draining into the Black Sea via Romania (and Ukraine ). The entire region is a UNESCO World Heritage site, making it a great nature preserve to explore if you’re looking to get away from the crowds. You can hike around the coastline or take a boat tour along the water for a better view. While the hiking is free, expect to pay around 210-300 RON for a full-day boat tour that includes lunch. A half-day tour without lunch is about 110-150 RON.

7. Celebrate Hora de la Prislop

Held every August, this festival is a celebration that brings together Transylvania, Moldova , and Maramures. Known more commonly as the Dance at Prislop, there is lots of traditional dancing and singing, beautiful costumes, parading, and awesome feasting. Dating back to the 1730s, the festival is a celebration of local and traditional culture and one not to be missed if you’re in the area. The festival is held in the remote Prislop Pass in the north of the country, where up to 50,000 people gather each year.

8. Hunt for Dracula in Sighisoara

Founded during the 12th century, this town is one of the most beautiful and best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. One of the eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the country, there are many towers, ornate churches, and burgher houses (traditional houses from the Middle Ages and Renaissance) to see throughout the colorful cobbled streets. This is also the birthplace of Vlad Tepes, more commonly known as Vlad the Impaler (aka Dracula). Be sure to climb the clock tower for sweeping views of the city. Other highlights include the History Museum, the guild towers (part of the city’s historic defenses), and the Scholar’s Stairway (a 17th-century staircase that was used by schoolchildren).

9. Visit Peles Castle

Constructed for King Carol I in the 1870s as a getaway spot, this castle (which looks more like an elaborate palace or manor house) is lavishly decorated and serves as a great reminder of the luxurious lives these rulers enjoyed. It was also the first castle in Europe to have electricity. After touring the elaborate grounds and gardens you can head inside to look at the art and antique collection, which includes over 4,000 arms and armor. A visit to the ground floor of the castle costs 50 RON, a tour including the first floor costs 100 RON, and a tour of the ground, first, and the second floor costs 150 RON. The temporary exhibitions are free. Guided day trips from Bucharest cost around 100 RON and include Bran Castle.

10. Tour a salt mine

Salina Turda is a salt mine in Turda that has been converted into a subterranean museum. The mine dates back to antiquity and was used throughout the Middle Ages. Learn how the workers got the salt to the surface and how laborious the process was. There’s a small underground lake at the bottom where you can rent a boat and paddle around and there are also games like bowling and mini-golf and even a Ferris wheel! It’s a good place to visit with kids. There is also a spa if you want to treat yourself to some natural remedies. Admission is 50 RON on weekdays and 60 RON on weekends. Skip-the-line tickets (including a guide and ride from Bucharest) cost 500 RON.

11. Explore Cluj-Napoca

Cluj-Napoca is pleasant university town located in Romania’s northwest and a big stopping point for people coming east from Hungary (it’s a hub for cheap flights too). The city dates back centuries, and there are a lot of historical churches, museums, and ruins (especially on Cetatuia hill) to visit. Because of the university here, there are a lot of affordable restaurants and a very happening nightlife in the city. I really liked the days I spent here. While not as historic and medieval as many of Romania’s other cities, if you’re looking for a city with a cool atmosphere in Romania, this place is it.

12. Explore Hoia Forest

This infamous forest has been the site of numerous ghost and UFO sightings over the centuries (as well as other paranormal activities). In fact, it’s often considered the creepiest forest in the world. Here, trees are warped and bent in unsettling ways that science hasn’t been able to explain. Take a stroll through the woods during the day for free (lots of locals walk and jog here) or do a guided night tour to learn about the unsettling paranormal events that have occurred here! Night tours cost 250-475 RON per person.

13. Unwind at Balea Lake

Located 90 minutes from Sibiu, Balea Lake makes for a worthwhile day trip from the city. Part of the Fagaras Mountains (often called the “Transylvanian Alps”), many people come here to hike or to ski during the winter (there is even an ice hotel built here in the winter). There are marked trails if you want to hike, offering both five-hour and nine-hour routes to some of the nearby summits. Located about an hour from the city, you can take a bus here for around 90 RON.

  For more information on specific cities in Romania, check out these guides:

• Brasov Travel Guide
• Cluj-Napoca Travel Guide
• Sibiu Travel Guide

Romania Travel Costs

Accommodation – A bed in a 4-8-bed hostel dorm costs about 50-70 RON per night. A private room in a hostel costs at least 130 RON per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and many hostels also have self-catering facilities if you want to cook your own food. Most hostels in the country don’t include free breakfast.

A budget hotel costs around 150-175 RON per night. You can find rooms cheaper, however, you’ll have to share a bathroom with other guests. Free Wi-Fi is common and many hotels also include a simple free breakfast as well.

Airbnb is available throughout the country with private rooms starting around 90 RON per night, while entire homes/apartments cost around 130-175 RON.

For those traveling with a tent, camping is possible around the country, though stick to dedicated campgrounds. Wild camping is legal, but theft is a bit common so it’s much safer to camp in designated areas. It costs 25-40 RON per night for a basic tent plot.

Food – Romanian cuisine is hearty, influenced by nearby Hungary and other Eastern European neighbors. Stews and sausages are common staples, with garlic sausage being especially popular. Sour soup, lamb, meatballs, and meat pies are other popular traditional meals. Wine is the drink of choice here as Romania is one of the largest wine producers in the world.

Most cheap (yet filling) restaurant meals (such as schnitzel with mashed potatoes and salad) cost around 25-45 RON for dinner, and 10-20 RON for breakfast. Soup is a good option for saving money as it costs around 17-25 RON and is pretty hearty (it also typically comes with a side of bread).

At a mid-range restaurant, a three-course meal costs around 80 RON. A burger or pasta dish is 35-40 RON while seafood or steak dishes typically cost 75-130 RON. A six-course tasting menu starts at 110 RON.

Fast food is around 6-9 RON for a burger or hot dog, while a combo meal (think McDonald’s) is around 30-40 RON. Takeaway sandwiches are around 20 RON.

A domestic beer out at a restaurant or bar costs around 8-10 RON, a glass of local wine is 7-18 RON while a bottle is 60-100 RON, and cocktails start at 20-35 RON. A cappuccino/latte is around 10-12 RON, a tea is 10 RON, and a bottle of water is 5-8 RON.

In tourist destinations like Brasov or Sighisoara, expect prices to be a little higher (but not too much).

If you buy your own groceries and cook your meals, expect to pay about 140-190 RON per week for groceries that include pasta, vegetables, chicken, and other basic staples. Save money by shopping at local markets or small roadside stands, which usually have the cheapest and freshest products. There are also several discount supermarkets in Romania, like Profi, Lidl, and Penny Market.

Backpacking Romania Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 140 RON per day, you can stay in a hostel, cook all of your meals, use local transportation to get around, take slow trains between cities, and do mostly free activities like hiking and free walking tours.

On a mid-range budget of about 265 RON per day, you can stay in an Airbnb, eat out for most meals, enjoy a few drinks out at the bar, take the occasional taxi, take buses or rideshares between cities, and do more paid activities such as museum and castle visits.

On a “luxury” budget of 440 RON or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for all your meals, drink more, rent a car to get around, and do whatever tours and activities you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in RON.

Romania Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Romania is already a very affordable country to visit. You’ll be hard pressed to spend a lot of money here. You really have to go out of your way to do so. But, if you want some ways to lower your costs, here are ways to save money in the country:

• Stay with a local – Nothing’s cheaper than sleeping for free. Couchsurfing connects you with locals who give you not only a free place to stay but who can introduce you to all the great places to see and share their insider tips and advice. It’s a great community to be a part of.
• Eat lunch out – Although the food in Romania is inexpensive in general, you can save more money by cooking your own dinners and eating your lunches out. A lunch menu in Romania typically consists of three courses (soup, main, dessert), and can cost as little as 30 RON.
• Rideshare – If you’re flexible in your schedule, use the ridesharing service BlaBlaCar to catch rides with locals between cities (or countries). Drivers are verified and it’s perfectly safe (though sometimes rides don’t show up, which is why you need to be flexible). While buses might be cheaper, this is more fun and usually faster.
• Shop at discount grocers – If you’re going to cook or are just grabbing a snack, save money by shopping at discount supermarkets like Profi, Lidl, and Penny Market.
• Stay at Balkan Backpacker Hostels – There are hostels all around Romania that are a part of the Balkan Backpacker network. Book directly with these hostels and tell them you’re aware of the network to get 10% off your stay.
• Hitchhike – Hitchhiking in Romania is safe and quite common. It’s not the fastest way to get around but it works if you’re on a budget. Just make sure you have a sign and that you trust your gut when accepting rides. It’s a great way to connect with locals while also saving money.
• Take the train – The trains in Romania are slow, but they are the cheapest way to get around. If you’re not in a hurry, take the train. There are some night trains around the country as well if you’re going long distances.
• Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is generally safe so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your reliance on single-use plastic. I suggest a LifeStraw since their bottles have a built-in filter to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Romania

Romania has tons of budget-friendly hostels. Here are of my favorite places to stay in Romania:

• JugendStube (Brasov)
• Sleep Inn Hostel (Bucharest)
• PanGeea (Sibiu)
• Burg Hostel (Sighisoara)

How to Get Around Romania

Public Transportation – Buses and trams in most towns cost as little as 2 RON for a single journey, though the vehicles are often crowded and in varying states of disrepair. In Bucharest, the metro is 3 RON, though a day-pass is only 8 RON making it a much better deal. Weekly metro passes are 30 RON, which is worthwhile if you’re going to be using public transportation often (week passes are also available for the buses and trams but prices vary depending on your route).

In Brasov and Cluj, for comparison, a single-ticket ride on the public bus is 2-2.50 RON while a day pass is 12-14 RON.

Flights – Flying around Romania is an option if you’re in a hurry. You can often find great deals if you plan ahead. From Bucharest, you can reach pretty much any airport in the country for under 400 RON.

Bucharest to Cluj or Timisoara, for example, can be done for under 170 RON one-way. Ryanair, Wizz, and Blue Air (the Romanian low-cost carrier) are the three airlines to check for the lowest prices.

Bus – Buses connect all the major cities in the country, though since Romania is a large country, the journeys can be quite long. For example, the journey from Bucharest to Cluj costs around 100 RON and takes 9 hours. The journey from Bucharest to Brasov takes around 4 hours and costs 50-65 RON.

Contrary to most countries, the trains here are a cheaper option in many cases. If you’re on a budget, be sure to compare bus and train prices.

Train – Trains in Romania are a slow (but reliable) way of getting around. There are 3 different kinds of trains: InterCity (IC), InterRegional (IR), and Regional (R). The InterRegional trains are the fastest and nicest and likely the ones you’ll be using to travel from city to city.

Standard seats (second class) are usually quite comfortable and adequate for even long journeys. Wi-Fi and catering are not available so bring your own entertainment and food if you have a long journey.

As for prices, the 9-hour journey from Bucharest to Timisoara is around 100 RON while the trip from Bucharest to Cluj-Napoca takes about the same amount of time and costs a little less at 90 RON.

Rideshare – Uber is available in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Brasov, Timisoara, and Iasi. It’s the cheapest option if you need to get somewhere and don’t want to take public transit as the taxis in Romania charge an arm and a leg.

For longer distances, use BlaBlaCar. It’s a great (and safe) ridesharing service for intercity travels. Just download the app, make a profile, and search for rides.

Car – Car rentals are about 70 RON per day for a multi-day rental. Always be sure to lock your rental car when leaving, as rentals are targeted for theft more often than local vehicles. Drivers need to be at least 21.

For the best rental car prices, use Discover Cars .

Hitchhiking – Hitchhiking in Romania is very easy. Just make sure you make it clear to the driver that you are hitchhiking, as some drivers will demand payment if it’s not made clear. For more information about hitchhiking in Romania, use Hitchwiki .

When to Go to Romania

The best (and most popular) time to visit Romania is during the summer, from June to August. Temperatures are hot and rain is infrequent. Expect daily highs around 30°C (86°F) during this time. These are the busiest months of the year for tourism, though it’s only noticeable in destinations like Brasov or Sibiu where tourism is the main draw. But even then, the crowds are much smaller than in Western Europe.

The shoulder seasons (late April-May and September-October) are great times to visit as well. You’ll beat the crowds and have much milder temperatures, which are perfect for anyone looking to head into the hills for some hiking. There’s more rain in the spring, but there are also stunning autumn colors in the fall which makes for a beautiful backdrop to your trip (especially if you’re traveling through Transylvania).

Winter in Romania can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing. Snow is common though not abundant, which can affect conditions if you’re traveling by car. While cities like Sighisoara and Brasov look quite charming in the winter, Bucharest has a much grimmer atmosphere due to the influence of Soviet architecture and their reliance on gray, bland concrete. In short, I wouldn’t recommend a winter visit unless you have a specific desire to enjoy the cold and quiet cities.

How to Stay Safe in Romania

Romania is a very safe country and crime against tourists here is rare. It’s a safe destination for solo travelers.

That said, petty theft can still occur so always keep your valuables secure and out of sight. Theft is most common when riding crowded city buses and trams (mostly in Bucharest) so take extra precautions when riding.

Additionally, take some extra precautions when renting a car. While the roads are safe, rental cars are targeted for theft more than local cars, so take precautions and lock your vehicle when you’re not using it. When booking, make sure your insurance covers theft.

While scams are rare, if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

Solo female travelers should feel comfortable exploring on their own, though the standard precautions apply (don’t accept drinks from strangers, don’t walk alone late at night, etc.). As in any city, never leave your drink unattended when out at the bar and never walk home alone if intoxicated.

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Avoid isolated areas at night and be aware of your surroundings at all times. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Romania Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!
• BlaBlaCar – BlaBlaCar is a ridesharing website that lets you share rides with vetted local drivers by pitching in for gas. You simply request a seat, they approve, and off you go! It’s a cheaper and more interesting way to travel than by bus or train!

Romania Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Romania and continue planning your trip:

The Cost of Traveling Far Eastern Europe

Finding More Than Dracula in Romania

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• Where To Stay
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• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Following the people and events that make up the research community at Duke

AI Time Travel: Reimagining Ancient Landscapes

By Sophie Cox

On May 9, 2024

In Anthropology , Art , Artificial Intelligence , History , Visualization

You are looking at a field of fluffy, golden grass dotted with yellow flowers. There are trees in the background and mountains beyond that. Where are you?

Now you’re facing a terracotta sarcophagus. Where are you? When are you?

A new exhibit in the Rubenstein Arts Center uses AI to bring viewers into ancient Roman and Etruscan landscapes spanning 1300 years, from about 1000 BCE to 300 CE. (The field is Roman, the sarcophagus Etruscan.)

Along one wall, screens show springtime landscapes representing ancient Rome. The written prompts AI used to create each image include detailed information on plant species found in each landscape. One titled “Sedges in shallow water of an ephemeral pond” mentions “sparse trees of alder (Alnus glutinosa), white willow (Salix alba), and white poplar (Populus alba), and few herbaceous plants.” You can view examples of the written prompts on the exhibit’s website, AI Landscapes – Rethinking the Past .

Historians know what plants were likely to be in these landscapes because of evidence from preserved pollen grains. Different species have distinct pollen shapes, which makes it possible to identify plants even centuries or millennia later.

An interactive display near the front of the room has a camera pointed at props like building models, pillars, toy horses, and pieces of styrofoam. An AI model reinterprets the camera’s images to create hypothetical scenes from ancient Rome. “See how the columns get reinterpreted as statues?” says Felipe Infante de Castro, who helped program the AI. The AI attempts to add detail and backgrounds to simple props to create realistic scenes. “The only thing that we’re forcing,” he  says, “are essentially shapes—which it may or may not respect.” It may reinterpret a hand as a horse’s head, for instance, or a strangely shaped building.

The model is more precise with plants than buildings, says Augustus Wendell, Assistant Professor of the Practice in Art, Art History and Visual Studies and one of the exhibit designers. Latin names for plants are widely used in modern taxonomy, and the AI is likely to have encountered more plants in its training than ancient Roman architecture styles. The AI is a “generic model” asked to “draw on its presuppositions” about Roman buildings, says Felipe. It “wasn’t trained on specifically Roman landscapes…. It just tries its best to interpret it as such.” The results aren’t always completely authentic. “In the background,” Wendell says, “the city is often quite modern Tuscan, not at all ancient Roman.”

“We can use an AI,” Felipe says, “to give us a representation of the past that is compatible with what we believe the past should look like.”

In another part of the exhibit, you can use an AI chatbot to talk to Pliny the Elder, a Roman scholar. Caitlin Childers, who helped design the exhibit, explains that the chatbot was trained on Pliny the Elder’s 37 books on natural history. When I asked Pliny what the chatbot was designed for, he told me, “I do not have the ability to access external articles or specific information beyond the knowledge I possess as Pliny the Elder up to the year 79 AD.”

He can give you information on plants and their uses in ancient Rome, but when I asked Pliny what his favorite plant was, he couldn’t decide. “I find it challenging to select a favorite plant among the vast array of flora that the Earth provides. Each plant contributes uniquely to the balance and beauty of nature.” According to Professor Maurizio Forte, “This AI chatbot can speak in English, French, Italian and also in Latin! So it is possible to formulate questions in Latin and requiring a response in Latin or ask a question in English and expect a reply in Latin as well.”

A virtual reality headset lets you see a three-dimensional model of an Etruscan sarcophagus. The real sarcophagus is encased in glass in the Villa Giulia Museum in Rome, but the virtual reality experience puts it right in front of you. The experimental VR-AI installation also allows viewers to ask questions to the sarcophagus out loud. The sarcophagus has a statue of a man and woman, but historians don’t know whose ashes are buried inside. “It’s not important how they look,” says Forte. “It’s important how they want to be.”

The sarcophagus would have been a “symbolic, aristocratic way to show power,” Forte explains. The design of the sarcophagus represents an intentional choice about how its owners wanted the world to see them after their death. “This is eternity,” Forte says. “This is forever.”

The exhibit, called “Rethinking the Past,” is on display at the Rubenstein Arts Center until May 24.

Senior Presenters Explore Cultural Dynamics and Justice Around the World

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Travel to Mordor With the New LEGO® Icons The Lord of the Rings: Barad-Dûr set

Today, the LEGO Group, in partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products, reveals the LEGO® Icons The Lord of the Rings: Barad-Dûr set, inspired by the award-winning film adaptations. Now in brick form, the epic dark tower and Eye of Sauron build has many hidden fan “treasures” and film references from The Lord of the Rings.

Prepare to journey deep into the heart of Middle-earth with the unveiling of the spectacular LEGO Icons The Lord of the Rings: Barad-Dûr set! With its imposing 5,471 pieces, this awe-inspiring masterpiece brings to life the dark tower of Mordor in stunning detail, packed with thrilling features and beloved characters from the timeless trilogy. The journey through the dark tower continues with the throne room – which includes a compartment that opens to reveal a map, and a ladder on the top floor of the tower that can be moved left and right.

At the summit lies the Eye of Sauron that rotates in various directions and features a light brick to make the eye glow. There are also 10 minifigures, including Sauron™, Mouth of Sauron™, Orc™, Frodo, Sam, Gollum™ and Gothmog.

In addition, purchases made between 1-7 June will receive a free LEGO® Icons The Lord of the Rings™: Fell Beast™ set, which features posable wings and joints and a Nazgul minifigure.

The build is split into four main sections, with the tower section being fully modular. LEGO fans with more than one copy of the set will be able to stack this section to build a taller tower.

The LEGO® Icons The Lord of the Rings: Barad-Dûr set are available for LEGO Insiders from 1st June 2024 at www.LEGO.com/LOTR and LEGO Stores for all from 4th June priced at €459.99 / £399.99/ $459.99. When purchasing the set between 1-7th June, fans will also get a free LEGO The Lord of the Rings Fell Beast set.

Notes to Editors

Product Information: Age: 18+ RRP: 459.99€ / 459.99$ / 399.99£ Pieces: 5471 pieces Product No.: 10333 Dimensions: Measures over 32 in. (83 cm) high, 11 in. (30 cm) wide and 17 in. (45 cm) long Available: LEGO Insiders: 1st June 2024 All: 4th June 2024 Link: www.LEGO.com/LOTR

About the LEGO Group   The LEGO Group’s mission is to inspire and develop the builders of tomorrow through the power of play. The LEGO System in Play, with its foundation in LEGO bricks, allows children and fans to build and rebuild anything they can imagine.

The LEGO Group was founded in Billund, Denmark in 1932 by Ole Kirk Kristiansen, its name derived from the two Danish words LEg GOdt, which mean “Play Well”. Today, the LEGO Group remains a family-owned company headquartered in Billund. However, its products are now sold in more than 120 countries worldwide.

For more news from the LEGO Group, information about our financial performance and responsibility engagement, please visit www.LEGO.com/aboutus.

ABOUT WARNER BROS. DISCOVERY GLOBAL CONSUMER PRODUCTS Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products (WBDGCP), part of Warner Bros. Discovery Global Brands, Franchises, and Experiences, extends the company’s powerful portfolio of entertainment brands and franchises into the lives of fans around the world. WBDGCP partners with best-in-class licensees globally on award-winning toy, fashion, home décor and publishing programs inspired by the biggest franchises from Warner Bros.’ film, television, animation, and games studios, HBO, Discovery, DC, Cartoon Network, HGTV, Eurosport, Adult Swim, and more. With innovative global licensing and merchandising programs, retail initiatives, and promotional partnerships, WBDGCP is one of the leading licensing and retail merchandising organizations in the world.