Things to do in Brasov Romania + Day Trips

Nestled in the heart of Transylvania, Brasov is a charming city that beautifully blends history, culture and natural beauty.  Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or a lover of medieval architecture, Brasov has something for everyone.  Here’s our guide to the top things to do in Brasov that will make your visit unforgettable.

1. Discover the Historic Old Town

Brasov’s Old Town is a treasure trove of historical and architectural wonders.  Begin your journey at the Council Square (Piața Sfatului), the city’s vibrant heart.  Surrounded by colorful baroque buildings and home to the iconic Black Church (Biserica Neagră), this square is perfect for leisurely strolls and people-watching.  Don’t miss the chance to explore the Black Church.  Indeed, the largest Gothic church in Romania, known for its impressive organ and stunning interior.

2. Climb Tampa Mountain

For panoramic views of Brasov and the surrounding Carpathian Mountains, a hike up Tampa Mountain is a must.  Moreover, the trail is well-marked and suitable for most fitness levels.  If hiking isn’t your thing, you can take the cable car to the top.  From the summit, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views that are perfect for photography enthusiasts.  Lastly, the iconic Brasov sign, reminiscent of the Hollywood sign, is also located here.  On the subject of Hollywood, the movie, One in the Chamber, was filmed here.

3. Wander Through the Narrow Streets

Brasov boasts some of the narrowest streets in Europe, with Strada Sforii (Rope Street) being the most famous.  In fact, this 80-meter-long and 1.3-meter-wide street is a fun and quirky attraction that showcases the city’s unique character.  As you wander through these narrow streets, you’ll find charming boutiques, cozy cafes and traditional Romanian eateries that offer a taste of local cuisine.

4. Visit the Fortified Churches – Brasov Day Trips

Brasov is surrounded by several impressive fortified churches, remnants of the region’s Saxon heritage.  One of the most notable is the Prejmer Fortified Church.  Indeed, a UNESCO World Heritage site located just a short drive from Brasov.  Built in the 13th century, this church features thick walls, defensive towers, and a fascinating history.  Another must-visit is the Harman Fortified Church, known for its stunning frescoes and well-preserved defensive structures.

Read about the painted monasteries of Suceava.

5. Explore Bran Castle

No visit to Brasov is complete without a trip to Bran Castle, often referred to as Dracula’s Castle. Located about 30 kilometers from Brasov, this iconic castle is perched on a cliff and surrounded by myths and legends.  While there’s no historical evidence linking the castle to the infamous Vlad the Impaler, its dramatic architecture and eerie atmosphere make it a popular destination.  The castle houses a museum showcasing art and furniture collected by Queen Marie of Romania.

Finally, although advertised as Dracula’s Castle, this is not the real one.  In fact, the real Dracula’s Castle is Poenari Castle and is west of the Transfagarasan Road.

6. Experience the Poiana Brasov Resort

For outdoor enthusiasts, Poiana Brasov is a year-round playground.  This popular ski resort is just a 30-minute drive from Brasov and offers excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities during the winter months.  In the summer, the resort transforms into a haven for hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding.  Finally, the scenic landscapes and fresh mountain air make it an ideal escape from the city.

7. Take a Walk on the City Walls

Brasov’s medieval fortifications are well-preserved, and a walk along the city walls offers a glimpse into the city’s defensive past.  Start at the White Tower (Turnul Alb) and continue to the Black Tower (Turnul Negru) for stunning views of the Old Town and the surrounding hills.  The towers, along with the remaining sections of the city walls, provide a fascinating insight into Brasov’s history and strategic importance.

8. Visit the First Romanian School Museum

Located in the historic Schei district, the First Romanian School Museum (Prima Școală Românească) is a cultural gem.  This museum is housed in the building of the first Romanian school, established in the late 15th century.  It features a rich collection of old books, manuscripts and printing presses, highlighting the importance of education and literacy in Romanian history.  Consequently, a visit here offers a deeper understanding of the cultural heritage of Brasov and Romania.

9. Enjoy Local Cuisine

No trip to Brasov is complete without indulging in the local cuisine.  Traditional Romanian dishes such as sarmale (cabbage rolls), mici (grilled sausages), and ciorbă (sour soup) can be found in the city’s many restaurants and eateries.  Be sure to try the local Transylvanian wines and the famous desserts, including papanași (fried doughnuts with sour cream and jam).  For a unique dining experience, visit a traditional Romanian restaurant where you can enjoy live folk music and dance performances.

10. Attend Local Festivals and Events

Brasov hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year that celebrate the city’s rich cultural heritage.  The Junii Brasovului festival, held every spring, is a vibrant event featuring traditional costumes, music and dance.  In addition, the Brasov International Film Festival and the Brasov Jazz Festival attract artists and audiences from around the world.  Lastly, these events provide a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions.

11. Transfagarasan Road – Brasov Day Trips

The Transfagarasan road was built under Ceausescu rule, similarly to the Palace of the Parliament in Bucharest.  In fact, during the 60’s, Ceausescu wanted quick access to the mountains due to the threat of a Soviet invasion.  The road was built by soldiers of the Romanian army and completed in 1974.  Nowadays it’s a scenic route through Romania which tourists drive through.  There are many interesting landmarks on the route including winding roads, Balea Lake, tunnels, Poenari Castle (The real Dracula’s castle) and the Vidraru Dam.

The Romanian equivalent to the Tour de France cycling often passes through the Transfagarasan road.  As a result, the road was also featured in a Top Gear special where Jeremy Clarkson claimed it was the world’s best road trip.  Finally, read about my day trip to the Transfagarasan road on my travel blog.

Pele’s Castle – Brasov Day Trips

Peles Castle was built at the start of the 20th century and is nearby the ski resort town of Sinaia.  Moreover, you can get to Peles Castle on the train / bus from Brasov or by taxi / car.  If you went by car on the Transfagarasan road, afterwards you can loop around to Sinaia before returning to Brasov.

Furthermore, to visit the Transfagarasan road and Peles Castle I used an unofficial taxi driver I met at Brasov train station.  It was a bit of a risk but cheap at €40 for the whole trip.  The driver also told me how to take the minibus to Chisinau, Moldova which was my next destination.

Enjoy the Things to do in Brasov

Brasov is a city that captivates visitors with its rich history, stunning landscapes and vibrant cultural scene.  From exploring medieval landmarks to enjoying outdoor adventures and savoring local cuisine.  Indeed, there are countless things to do in Brasov that will make your visit truly memorable. Whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or friends, this enchanting Transylvanian city has something to offer everyone.  Next, pack your bags and get ready to discover the magic of Brasov!

Brasov to Chisinau by Minibus

If you ask around at Brasov train station about a minibus to Chisinau someone will be able to help you find the right person.  It should be easy to find out where they leave from and what time.  I recommend you check and and book your space a day in advance.  For crossing the border into Moldova you shouldn’t need a visa but remember it’s not part of the EU or Schengen community.

Chisinau to Odessa