Things To Do
in Braşov
Brașov is a well-preserved medieval city perched in the heart of Transylvania. Its cobbled lanes lead to the iconic Black Church and Council Square, where centuries of history unfold in stone and color. Nestled at the foot of the Carpathians, Brașov serves as a gateway to Bran Castle, Poiana Brașov, and other mountain adventures.
Vibrant cafés, markets, and sweeping viewpoints make Brașov a versatile base for culture, history, and outdoor exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the beautiful city of Braşov, nestled in the Carpathian Mountains. After checking into your accommodation, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a quaint café in the Old Town. Get your bearings with a stroll around the historic center, marveling at the stunning architecture.
Visit the iconic Black Church, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, and explore its intricate interiors. Afterward, wander through the Council Square, where you can browse local artisan shops and enjoy a light lunch. Take your time capturing the essence of this charming city.
As the sun sets, head to one of the local restaurants to savor traditional Romanian dishes. Experience the vibrant nightlife in Braşov, perhaps stopping by a local pub for some live music. End your evening with a peaceful walk through the lit streets of the Old Town.
Take a cable car up to Tâmpa Mountain for breathtaking views of Braşov and the surrounding mountains. Spend the morning hiking along the trails that offer panoramic vistas and lush forest scenery. Enjoy a packed breakfast while soaking in the serene mountain atmosphere.
Descend the mountain and visit the Tampa Peak viewpoint for more stunning landscapes. After a picnic lunch in the fresh air, explore the nearby trails or visit the local wildlife. Spend some time wandering through the nearby gardens and parks, enjoying nature's beauty.
Return to your hotel to freshen up before dinner. Choose a restaurant known for its authentic Romanian cuisine and enjoy a hearty meal. Spend the evening relaxing at a local café or take another stroll through the lively streets.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥗Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $60-120 |
| 🚆Local transit ticket | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🥛Milk (1 liter) | $1-1.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich medieval architecture and direct access to Carpathian scenery
- Compact, walkable Old Town with plenty of dining and cultural options
- Can get crowded in peak season, especially around Council Square
- Some traditional dishes are meat-heavy; vegetarian options require a bit of searching
- "Bună ziua" - Good day / Hello
- "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
- "Te rog" - Please
- "La revedere" - Goodbye
- "Da" - Yes
- "Nu" - No
Places to Visit in Braşov
Visit one of these nice places.
A Gothic masterpiece with a dramatic exterior and impressive interior details; excellent for architectural photography and atmospheric interiors.
Historic square framed by pastel facades and the iconic Astronomical Clock, ideal for daytime and golden-hour shots.
Panoramic city views from the hillside near the old town; a classic shot capturing Brașov’s skyline and the surrounding mountains.
Medieval gateways that frame the old town’s stone-and-stucco textures and narrow lanes.
Historic towers offering elevated perspectives and a sense of Brașov’s medieval fortifications.
Food in Braşov
Braşov Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cabbage rolls stuffed with seasoned meat and rice, typically served with polenta and a dollop of sour cream; a Transylvanian staple found in most traditional restaurants.
Must-Try!
A tangy tripe soup flavored with vinegar and sour cream; a beloved starter in many Romanian meals.
Grilled minced-meat rolls seasoned with garlic and spices; commonly served with mustard and bread in local eateries.
Dried-ricotta–like pastries, fried or boiled, topped with sour cream and plum jam for a sweet finish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Outdoor stalls and small eateries offering covrigi (pretzels), grilled specialties, and dairy treats; great for quick bites and people-watching.
Salted or sesame-covered Romanian pretzels (covrigi) that make for a tasty, inexpensive snack on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly handshake is common; in informal settings more heartfelt 'Bună' or 'Salut' may be used. When addressing adults, use polite forms and titles.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; remove hats indoors and show respect in quiet spaces.
Romanians value politeness and hospitality; allow hosts to lead conversations in social settings and share tables in restaurants when possible.
Safety
Tipping in Braşov
Ensure a smooth experience
Restaurants typically expect 5–10% if service is good; some larger places include service. Tipping in cash directly to servers is common, or you can round up the bill.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in restaurants, shops, and hotels. Contactless payments are common; cash is handy for small vendors and markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder days with occasional showers; blossoms in parks and squares. Pack layers and a light rain jacket for strolls along the Old Town lanes.
Warm, often bright days with pleasant evenings. Peak crowds around tourist sites; bring sun protection and water for hill viewpoints.
Vibrant foliage and cooler air; ideal for scenic hikes and city photography. Layered clothing is key as temperatures swing.
Cold with regular snowfall; great for cozy cafés and nearby ski resorts like Poiana Brașov. Pack insulated outerwear, gloves, and sturdy boots.
Braşov at Night
Hiking in Braşov
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A classic hike with rewarding summit views; plan a full-day or half-day depending on route and season.
Accessible trails around the hill with panoramic city vistas; suitable for day hikes and shorter walks.
Rugged ridge above Poiana Brașov with striking rock formations; moderate to challenging.
A scenic area for historical exploration combined with scenic overlooks of the Carpathians.
Airports
How to reach Braşov by plane.
A nearby airport located to the west of Brașov; currently expanding routes and facilities, useful for regional connections and future growth.
Romania’s largest international gateway; about a 2.5–3 hour drive or rail journey from Brașov, with frequent nationwide connections.
Located northwest of Brașov, offering several seasonal and year-round flights; convenient for continuing to Transylvanian attractions.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority group; families and professionals populate the city with a growing student presence.
Longstanding cultural influences visible in architecture, cuisine, and local traditions.
Brașov hosts several universities and a growing creative scene.
A steady influx year-round, especially in spring and autumn.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular in Poiana Brașov during winter, with well-developed slopes and nearby resort facilities.
A staple activity in the surrounding Carpathians and forested hills.
Widely followed and played; local clubs and public parks provide opportunities to watch or participate.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Braşov.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian-friendly options are available in most restaurants (polenta, mushroom dishes, centuries-old dumplings, fresh salads). Ask for vegetable-based stews or cheese-filled dumplings; many places can adapt dishes upon request.