Things to Do in Brasov in December
December weather, activities, events & insider tips
December Weather in Brasov
Is December Right for You?
Advantages
- Christmas markets transform the medieval Old Town into a winter wonderland - Piața Sfatului hosts traditional Romanian crafts, mulled wine (vin fiert) for 15-20 RON, and covrigi (pretzels) from 5 RON, operating daily 10am-10pm through December 23rd
- Snow-covered Carpathian Mountains provide ideal conditions for skiing at Poiana Brașov resort - 14 km (8.7 miles) from city center with 23 slopes, lift tickets 150-200 RON/day, and equipment rental 80-120 RON/day
- Tourist crowds drop 60% compared to summer months - major attractions like Bran Castle and Peleș Castle have minimal queues, allowing 2-3 hours instead of full-day visits with comfortable exploration
- Traditional Romanian winter cuisine peaks in December - restaurants serve ciorbă de burtă (tripe soup), sarmale (cabbage rolls), and cozonac (sweet bread) at 25-40 RON per dish, paired with țuică (plum brandy) tastings
Considerations
- Daylight limited to 8.5 hours (sunrise 7:45am, sunset 4:30pm) restricts outdoor sightseeing - plan major attractions for 10am-3pm window to maximize natural light for photography and comfortable walking
- Mountain weather changes rapidly - temperatures can drop from 1°C to -15°C (34°F to 5°F) within hours, requiring layered clothing and indoor backup plans for 40% of days with sudden snowfall
- Some castle courtyards and outdoor sections at Bran and Rasnov fortresses may have limited access due to icy conditions, reducing total visit time by 30-45 minutes per location
Best Activities in December
Carpathian Mountains Winter Hiking
December offers crisp mountain air and snow-dusted trails perfect for winter hiking. Tampa Mountain (955m/3,133ft) provides panoramic city views with well-maintained winter paths. Postăvaru Massif trails become accessible via cable car, avoiding icy lower sections. Morning hikes (9am-1pm) take advantage of best light and stable weather before afternoon temperature drops.
Medieval Old Town Winter Photography Tours
December's soft winter light and occasional snow create magical photography conditions in Council Square and Black Church area. Early morning (8-10am) provides golden light on Gothic architecture without crowds. The medieval streets look particularly atmospheric with Christmas decorations and traditional lamp lighting at 4pm daily.
Dracula Castle Winter Exploration
Bran Castle in December offers an authentic Gothic atmosphere with fewer tourists and dramatic winter mountain backdrop. Indoor heating makes the 2-hour self-guided tour comfortable, while snow-covered courtyards provide striking photo opportunities. The 30-minute drive from Brașov through snowy valleys adds scenic value.
Traditional Romanian Cooking Classes
December is peak season for traditional Romanian winter dishes - learn to prepare sarmale (stuffed cabbage), mici (grilled meat rolls), and papanași (sweet doughnuts). Local homes and cultural centers offer authentic experiences with market tours and mulled wine preparation. Indoor activity perfect for snowy afternoons.
Peleș Castle Royal Winter Tours
Sinaia's Peleș Castle offers heated interior tours showcasing royal winter lifestyle with original furnishings and Christmas decorations. The 1.5-hour drive through Carpathian winter landscapes is scenic, and December's reduced crowds allow intimate exploration of Europe's most beautiful castle interiors.
Carpathian Wine Tasting Tours
December is ideal for Romanian wine cellars offering warm tasting rooms and seasonal wine varieties. Local vineyards serve țuică (plum brandy) and wine pairings with traditional winter foods. Cellars maintain comfortable 12-15°C (54-59°F) temperatures perfect for escaping winter weather while learning about Carpathian wine traditions.
December Events & Festivals
Brașov Christmas Market
Traditional Christmas market in Council Square (Piața Sfatului) featuring local artisan crafts, Romanian Christmas foods, and nightly carol performances. Over 40 wooden stalls sell handmade pottery, wool items, and traditional Romanian Christmas decorations. Mulled wine and covrigi vendors operate daily with prices 15-25 RON.
New Year's Eve Concert in Council Square
Free outdoor concert featuring Romanian folk music and contemporary artists with fireworks display at midnight. Food stalls and warming stations set up around the square. Typically draws 15,000+ people making it the city's largest winter celebration.