Brasov City Guide: 40+ 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, what are the best things to do in Brasov, what are the 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!

This fairy-tale-like small town, located at the foot of Tampa mountain, is famous for its historical attractions and impossible-to-miss landmarks like the Black Church, its rich medieval history, large open squares like Council Square where locals and tourists alike enjoy the good life or narrow streets and alleys like the Rope Street.

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 few days on your holiday in Romania.

Here's a quick summary of things to do in Brasov:

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

This travel guide made by locals was updated in November 2024 with the best things to do in Brasov, places to visit, and how to plan your trip. We collected more than 40 items for this list so get ready!

Top Brasov attractions & things to do

There are many interesting places to visit and things to do in Brasov. The city has a charming and well-preserved medieval (Saxon) architecture, most of which you can see in the Old Town area and Schei district.

Here’s a list of the major landmarks and tourist attractions in Brasov:

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

Also known as Biserica Neagră, the Black Church is Brasov's most popular landmark and the largest Gothic church in Romania. A true masterpiece of architecture, the Black Church is not only a centerpiece of Brașov’s Old Town but also one of the most famous buildings in Romania and one of the largest gothic-style churches in Eastern Europe.

Dating back to the 14th century, the Black Church sits proudly – and unmistakably imposingly – at the edge of Piața Sfatului (Council Square). Its striking silhouette against the backdrop of Brașov’s charming Old Town makes it one of the first things visitors notice when exploring the city centre. Over the centuries, the Black Church has withstood fires, wars, and renovations, each event adding layers to its incredible story.

Once inside, visitors are greeted with an awe-inspiring interior that reflects centuries of artistry and craftsmanship. The Black Church houses an impressive collection of Ottoman carpets donated by local merchants, a testament to Brașov's history as a key trade hub. Another highlight of the Black Church is its magnificent organ, featuring nearly 4,000 pipes and frequently used for classical music concerts.

The church can be visited all year round but visiting hours depend on the season and church service. A ticket to see the interior of the Black Church 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.

2. Take in the atmosphere of Piata Sfatului (Council Square)

On any given day you will see children running around, adults taking a stroll, old folks feeding pigeons and tourists mesmerized by the beautiful Council 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. Nowadays, it houses Brasov History Museum.

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 of the Old Town 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!

3. St. Nicholas’ Cathedral: a blend of architectural styles

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 frescoes. And with a local guide, you'll also hear stories about how the majority of Romanians lived under Saxon rule.

Saint Nicholas Orthodox church is an impressive building. On the outside, it has a stunning blend of architectural styles mixing Renaissance, Gothic, and Baroque influences. Don't skip the church grounds and 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

4. Explore Brasov Old Town fortifications

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 Catherine's 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!

5. White Tower, Black Tower, and the medieval city walls

Besides the defense bastions, Brasov was surrounded by towers and city 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! The Black Tower is an especially popular stop, standing out for its dark history. Its is said that it is called "black tower" because of a fire that happened centuries ago. The White Tower, equally captivating, boasts a unique architectural style and provides panoramic views as well.

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 (Catherine's Gate) and Schei Gate.

• Local tip: many things to do in Brasov are related to Saxon culture and history; look for Brasov walking tours that will also take you to Schei district and St. Nicholas Church where Orthodox Romanians lived. There's also the first Romanian school, as confirmed by historic documents (to learn more about this, make sure you visit the First Romanian School Museum).

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

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You'll find out why was the city so important it needed to be fortified with city walls 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 should definitely be on your list of things to do in Brasov - you'll be rewarded with the best panoramic views of the city, the Romanian Mountains and the hills of Transylvania!

Telecabina Tampa cable car will take you up there and back for 35 Lei or 7 Euro, but you can also go on an uphill hike to it and then a little more when there. The cable car is closed from October 14, 2024 until Spring 2025 for renovation work.

• 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 :)

7. Can you squeeze through Rope Street?

Finally, another popular place to visit in the Brasov Old Town is called Strada Sforii (Rope Street), 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 the Rope Street 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

8. Get lost on side streets and narrow alleys

On the long list of things to do in Brasov, my favorite is to get lost exploring the narrowest streets of the Old Town. 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

Start from: Brasov

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9. Discover the culture of Brasov in its museums

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.

10. Get festive at the Christmas Market

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 Brasov Old Town area 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 (Kürtőskalác) while sipping on mulled wine or tuica to warm up.

11. Explore the wonders of space at the Planetarium

The Planetarium is part of the Zoo in Brasov and 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 adults and 3 Euro for children.

12. Relax at Aqua Paradise

Speaking of kids and fun things to do in Brasov 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!

13. Admire beautiful architecture at Apollonia Cultural Bank

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 houses and architecture while visiting Brasov, this is for you! :)

14. Visit the Beth Israel Synagogue in Brasov

A visit to the Beth Israel Synagogue in Brasov offers a meaningful glimpse into the history and resilience of the city’s Jewish community. Built in 1901, this beautiful Neo-Moorish synagogue stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Jewish life in Transylvania. Despite historical challenges, including periods of hardship during World War II, the Beth Israel Synagogue remains an active place of worship and a symbol of perseverance.

Day trips and guided tours from Brasov

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.

Some of the nearby attractions include visiting UNESCO heritage sites, exploring traditional villages, natural parks or seeing wildlife – take your pick! Oh, and did we mention you can also explore Transylvania's castles with day trips from Brasov? We created the best tours and unique trips from Brasov you won't find anywhere else, have a look:

Tours & Day Trips in Brasov

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15. Bran Castle: Romania’s #1 tourist attraction

Thanks to Bram Stoker's Dracula novel and the 1992 Hollywood movie, Bran Castle also known as Dracula's Castle. It is not only Romania's most famous landmark, but also one of the most famous medieval castles in the world.

This 14th-century fortress is truly impressive with many stories to tell and a popular trip to do from Brasov. A visit to Bran Castle reveals intriguing details about its history, blending fact with legend. 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?

A good guided tour will answer these questions and provide deeper insights into the castle's past. Some guides will keep spreading the myths and fake touristy stories often circulated about Bran Castle, so choose your tour carefully.

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

• Related: 17 Must-Have Romania Souvenirs & Where to Get Them

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 14 Euro (70 lei) and there's usually a queue, especially during weekends and tourist high season.

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

Start from: Brasov

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16. Feel like royalty at Peles Castle

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.

17. Rasnov Citadel: History and spectacular views

Another popular attraction close to Brasov is Rasnov Citadel. (or Rasnov Fortress). 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.

18. Visit Fagaras Fortress: a medieval fortress turned a prison

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.

19. Enter medieval times at Rupea Fortress

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…

20. Sighisoara Citadel: the last inhabited fortress in Europe

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 Old Town is still inhabited by locals and on its narrow streets with colourful houses you'll find local 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

Start from: Brasov

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21. Discover the Saxon villages with fortified churches

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.

One of the most distinctive legacies of the Saxons is the fortified church, which served both as a place of worship and as a stronghold for villagers during attacks. These impressive structures are a defining feature of the region and are scattered across the countryside, many of them remarkably well-preserved.

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.

Many of these villages have endured the test of time and oppressive politics, preserving their traditional way of life. They now provide a unique opportunity to experience Romanian village culture and to discover the historical importance of a fortified church in protecting and uniting these communities.

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

Start from: Cobor or Brasov

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22. Viscri: A place chosen by royalty

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!

23. Discover rural life in traditional mountain villages

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

Start from: Brasov

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• 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.

Go explore Romanian outdoors

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:

2025 Hut-to-Hut Hiking Trip [7 Days, Shared]

Start from: Brasov

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• 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.

24. The magnetic allure of Piatra Craiului Mountains

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

Start from: Brasov

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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 renowned not only for its significant biodiversity but also for its status as one of the most pristine and beautiful areas in Romania. Zarnesti Gorge, a striking natural wonder, is a popular must-see attraction within the park! In addition to the gorge, Piatra Craiului National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, with opportunities to spot rare species in their natural habitat while soaking in the serene beauty of untouched nature.

25. See the Sphinx in Bucegi Mountains

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

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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.

26. Fagaras Mountains: the highest in Romania

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.

Transfagarasan Highway Tour: The Best Road in the World!

Start from: Sibiu

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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)

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27. Feel the adrenaline at 7 Stairs Canyon

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

Start from: Brasov

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

28. Go horse riding in Transylvania

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.

29. Go on a bike trip in the Saxon villages

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

Start from: Brasov

See details

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

29. Skiing at Poiana Brasov

If you're a fan of winter sports, then while visiting Brasov you need to check out Poiana Brasov - the largest ski domain in the country! To find out more, you may want to check our guide for skiing in Romania.

Wildlife-watching trips

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 Carpathian 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:

30. A brown bear watching trip

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%< chance for that) and then - the fun starts! Observation in fully safe and controlled conditions, suitable for everyone and no hiking involved.

31. Go hiking and do wildlife tracking

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!

33. A multi-day hiking and wildlife trip

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

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3-day Hiking & Wildlife Trip in the Wild Carpathians

Start from: Rucar village, Arges county

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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.

34. Meet brown bears at Libearty Bear Sanctuary

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

35. Work on a farm and do wildlife conservation work

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 Carpathian 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

Start from: Brasov

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A typical Romanian appetizer platter - my favorite!

Best places to eat in Brasov

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 cu branza), 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!):

36. Try traditional Romanian restaurants

You cannot visit Brasov without trying the traditional Romanian cuisine. 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!

37. Fusion cuisine restaurants

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.

38. Budget-friendly restaurants

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.

39. Get a specialty coffee

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.

40. Best bars in Brasov

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 visit Brasov 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 flights operated by Wizz Air from London, Dortmund, Budapest, Rome, Nurnberg, Munchen, Stuttgart and Istanbul. 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 city 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.

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That's it - lots of reasons to visit Brasov and spend a couple of days roaming around its Old Town and its surrounding mountains! If you have more questions or need help with planning your trip contact us - we're happy to help!

Your Romanian Friend,

Adrian