30 Best Things to Do in Brasov: A Travel Guide by Locals

Brașov, Romania, is a charming medieval town at the foot of Tâmpa Mountain with a vibrant Old Town, fascinating history, and striking architecture. Wondering what to do in Brașov? Start in Council Square, visit the famous Black Church, and wander the cobbled streets filled with centuries of character.

Surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains, Brașov is a great base for exploring Transylvania.

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. explore the historic fortifications, medieval towers, and old city walls
3. admire iconic landmarks like the Black Church and Council Square in the heart of the Old Town
4. walk along Rope Street, one of the narrowest streets in Europe
5. enjoy outdoor adventures right inside city limits, from Mount Tâmpa to skiing in Poiana Brașov
6. discover the rich local history, museums, and distinct cultural heritage of the Schei district

This travel guide made by locals was updated in October 2026 with the 30 best things to do in Brașov, places to visit, and how to plan your trip.

If you're looking for places to visit and day trip ideas outside of the city then check our separate page for that, lots of options and info here:

Tours & Day trips in Brasov

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Top Brasov attractions & things to do

There are plenty of interesting places to visit and things to do in Brasov. The city boasts charming, well-preserved medieval Saxon architecture, especially in the Old Town and Schei district, but you can continue your Brasov sightseeing in many other areas as well.

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 stands proudly at the edge of Piața Sfatului in Brasov city center. Its Gothic silhouette dominates the Old Town skyline, bearing centuries of history through fires, wars, and restorations. Inside, visitors can admire Ottoman carpets donated by merchants and a magnificent organ with nearly 4,000 pipes, often used for concerts.

The church is open year-round, with hours varying by season. Entry costs 30 Lei (about €6), and tickets for organ concerts must be purchased in advance.

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

On any given day, children play, locals stroll, and tourists admire Council Square, the lively heart of Brașov’s Old Town. And blending in with the locals is one of the best ways to experience the city’s culture.

Once the site of public gatherings and trials, the square’s central Council House served as the old town hall and now hosts the Brasov History Museum. It was once called the Trumpeter’s Tower, as a guard used to announce each hour from its top.

Today, the square buzzes with cafés, restaurants, and beautifully preserved Saxon architecture. Local fairs featuring homemade food and crafts are often held here year-round. From Brasov's main square begins Strada Republicii, a charming pedestrian street lined with eclectic architecture, perfect for a leisurely walk through Brasov’s history.

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 medieval settlements in Romania, Brașov had an elaborate defense system built between the 13th and 15th centuries, and it’s well worth exploring.

The Weavers’ Bastion, the best preserved and most famous, features unique architecture and excellent acoustics, often hosting concerts. Its small museum (entry €2) displays a model of Brașov Fortress, old weapons, and weavers’ crafts.

The Graft Bastion, built in the 16th century to link the White Tower to the town, still has its rifle holes intact after restoration. Nearby, the Artists’ Bastion, close to Schei Gate and Catherine’s Gate, occasionally hosts cultural events and houses a small medieval museum.

Don’t miss the Blacksmiths’ Bastion, and several others that together tell the story of Brasov’s fortified past.

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

Beyond its defense bastions, Brasov is surrounded by medieval towers and city walls,

perfect for a scenic walk and great viewpoints. The Black Tower and White Tower, located at the edge of Brasov’s Old Town, offer panoramic views and well-preserved medieval charm. The Black Tower earned its name after a centuries-old fire, while the White Tower impresses with its unique architecture.

Stroll along the old fortification walls connecting the towers, and don’t miss Catherine’s Gate (Poarta Ecaterinei), named after the Saint Catherine's Monastery, which was located nearby, and Schei Gate, both rich in history and in walking distance from one another.

• 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).

Instead of wandering aimlessly or joining a free walking tour of uncertain quality, join our guided walking tour of Brasov. Led by a local guide, you’ll discover the city’s rich 13th-century history, vibrant culture, and hidden gems to make the most of your visit. Learn why Brașov was fortified with walls, how the first Romanian school began here, and what lies beneath the city’s mysterious network of underground tunnels.

Guided Walking Tour of Brasov: Major Sights & Medieval History

Start from: Brasov

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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 50 Lei or 10 Euro, but you can also go on an uphill hike to it and then a little more when you get 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 :)

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 Rope Street is one of the most useless, narrowest streets in the history of Europe, remember it was used by old-time firemen as a passageway to avoid the packed main 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 with pastel facades.

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

Brasov with a Local: Mt. Tampa, Farmers' Market & Home-Hosted Meal

Start from: Brasov

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9. Discover the culture of Brasov in its museums

Brasov offers a variety of cultural attractions. 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.

For a unique experience, visit the Museum of Communist Memories an apartment showcasing objects and furniture from Romania’s communist rule, giving visitors a firsthand look at daily life during that era.

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 7 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.

Outdoors in the city

With the Carpathian peaks surrounding Brașov and offering fantastic outdoor activities right within city limits, there's no way you'll be bored. Whether you want to hit the ski slopes in winter or ride alpine tracks in summer, everything is right on your doorstep.

• Pro tip: even though Poiana Brașov and Postăvaru are part of the administrative territory of the city, they are true mountain environments. Always check the weather and cable car schedules before heading up, and make sure you have appropriate gear or a local guide if you're tackling more challenging trails.

15. Skiing at Poiana Brașov

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.

16. Mountain biking on Postăvaru

For adrenaline seekers staying in the city, the Postăvaru Massif offers fantastic alpine trails. For MTB fans there are plenty of options for a bike trip, just outside Brasov on Postavaru Mountain.

Brasov is also the best base for exploring Transylvania: Bran and Peles castles, Rasnov fortress, Sighisoara and the Saxon villages, the mountain villages of Magura and Pestera, hiking in Piatra Craiului and the Bucegi, and bear watching. We've put them all in one place, with drive times and our tours: day trips from Brasov.

But until then...

More things to do in the city

Beyond the main square and famous landmarks, Brașov is packed with historic neighborhoods, cultural museums, quiet parks, and hidden architectural gems tucked throughout its diverse districts. Whether you want to explore the older Romanian quarters or soak in views from local hills, these additional sights will give you a well-rounded experience of the city.

17. Șchei district & Șchei Gate

Step through the imposing 19th-century Șchei Gate into the historic Romanian quarter. Unlike the medieval Saxon walled city, Șchei retains a quiet, rustic village-in-the-city feel with winding lanes, old houses, and a rich history of resistance and community independence.

18. First Romanian School museum

Tucked away next to St. Nicholas' Church in the Șchei district, this museum houses the site of the very first school to teach in the Romanian language, dating back to the late 15th century. Inside, you can view precious centuries-old printed books, historic classroom setups, and early printing presses.

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.

19. Strada Republicii

Strada Republicii is Brașov's premier pedestrian promenade, stretching from Council Square toward the civic center. It’s always lively, packed with outdoor terraces, shops, cafes, and historic colorful facades.

20. Brașov History Museum in the Council House

Housed inside the iconic Council House right in Piața Sfatului, this museum displays centuries of archaeological finds, medieval guild artifacts, weapons, and historical documents detailing how Brașov grew into a powerful merchant powerhouse.

21. Brașov Art Museum

Situated near the city park, the Art Museum features permanent and temporary exhibitions showcasing works by renowned Romanian painters and sculptors, offering a great window into national artistic evolution.

22. St. Bartholomew Church

Located slightly away from the main tourist crowds, St. Bartholomew Church is the oldest standing building in Brașov, dating back to the early 13th century. It features simple early Gothic and Romanesque architecture and receives far fewer tourists than the Black Church.

23. Straja Citadel hill (Cetățuia)

Perched on a hill across from the Old Town, Cetățuia was built as an outer defense fortress for Brașov. Walking up the hill gives you great panoramic views over the rooftops of the town and Mount Tâmpa.

24. The promenade under Tâmpa (Aleea de sub Tâmpa)

Aleea de sub Tâmpa is a serene, tree-lined walking path hugging the base of Mount Tâmpa just above the city walls. It's a favorite spot for locals looking for a peaceful stroll in nature without leaving city limits.

25. Brașov Zoo

Located in the tranquil Noua neighborhood and combined with the Planetarium, Brașov Zoo is a well-maintained municipal park set around a lake in a forested area, making it a great destination for families visiting the city.

26. The Blacksmiths' Bastion and city walls walk

Part of the original defense wall, the Blacksmiths' Bastion sits near the Graft Bastion and now holds city archive documents. It's an easy stop while walking along the northwestern fortification line.

27. Catherine's Gate and the medieval bastions loop

Walk the remaining loop of medieval defense structures around the Old Town edge. Catherine's Gate is the original fairytale-style gate into the city, while the nearby Weavers' Bastion is one of the best-preserved fortifications in Romania.

28. Metropolitan Cathedral of Brașov

Located near the civic center, this impressive modern Orthodox cathedral features grand domes, intricate interior murals, and a peaceful sanctuary reflecting contemporary religious architecture in the city.

29. Central park

If you need a break from sightseeing, Central Park sits between the Old Town and the civic center. It offers shaded benches, tree-lined walkways, and a playground.

30. Explore Brașov's local craft beer and artisan scene

Brașov has a growing specialty coffee and local craft beer scene. Exploring the side alleys off Council Square is one of the best ways to find small independent coffee shops and cozy local pubs.

A typical Romanian appetizer platter - my favorite!

Best places to eat in Brasov

After a day exploring the city, 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!):

31. 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!

32. 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 that you should consider.

33. 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.

34. 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.

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 from 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 8 euros 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 6-7h. 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. Uber also works in Brasov, as does the 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