Things to Do in Brasov

About Brasov

The Carpathian Mountains cradle Brașov, a medieval Saxon town that refuses to become a museum piece. Gothic spires rise above 13th-century walls that have held firm through wars, sieges, and centuries of Romanian winters. Walk the old town. Pastel baroque buildings line cobblestone streets that twist through the center, each corner turning up another church, watchtower, or merchant's house. A Hollywood-style sign sits on Tampa Hill above the city—tacky but useful for orientation. Bran Castle stands a few miles out. The Black Church anchors the main square, its bells marking hours like they have since the 1380s. Transylvanian folklore still matters here, though you'll find it mixed with good coffee shops and restaurants serving papanași, the local fried dough that is worth the calories. Many of those old Saxon merchant houses now operate as small hotels, but the bones of the place haven't changed. You don't just look at history in Brașov. You sleep in it, walk on it, and taste it in the mountain air that cuts through town each morning.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Use the RAT Brasov app for city buses—rides cost 2.5 lei ($0.56) within the city center. Taxis from Brasov to Bran Castle cost 60-100 lei ($13.33-$22.22) for the 30km trip. Rent cars for day trips to surrounding attractions—expect €25-35 ($26.88-$37.63) daily.

Money: Exchange euros at BRD or BCR banks for rates around 4.5 lei per euro. ATMs accept international cards but charge 5-8 lei ($1.11-$1.78) fees. Budget 40-80 lei ($8.89-$17.78) daily for meals and local activities.

Cultural Respect: Greet with 'buna ziua' (good day) and maintain eye contact. Remove hats when entering Orthodox churches. Tipping 10-15% is appreciated at restaurants and for tour guides.

Food: Try traditional ciorbă de burtă (tripe soup) and mici (grilled meat rolls) at Crama Sergiana where full meals cost 35-60 lei ($7.78-$13.33). Sample papanași (sweet doughnuts) at local cafés for 12-18 lei ($2.67-$4). Local țuică (plum brandy) costs 8-15 lei ($1.78-$3.33) per shot.

When to Visit

Peak season (June-August) brings warm weather (20-26°C), perfect hiking conditions, and long daylight hours, but also 40-50% higher accommodation prices and crowded attractions. July averages 15-20 rainy days. Spring (April-May) offers mild temperatures (15-22°C), blooming landscapes, and 25% lower costs, though expect occasional showers. Autumn (September-October) delivers impressive foliage, crisp air (10-18°C), harvest festivals, and moderate pricing—ideal for photographers and hikers. Winter (December-March) transforms Brașov into a snow-dusted fairy tale with temperatures dropping to -5 to 5°C. Ski season peaks December-February with 60% higher lodging costs, while November and March offer 30% discounts. Key events include the Medieval Festival of Arts and Crafts (last weekend of April), Golden Stag International Music Festival (August), and Christmas Markets (December 1-January 8). Budget travelers should target November or March for 40-50% savings. Families prefer June-August for reliable weather and full attraction schedules. Romantic couples find October-November magical with fewer crowds, cozy mountain lodges, and autumn's golden palette painting the Carpathian peaks.