What to Do in Brasov: Best Attractions, Hidden Gems & Day Trips [2025 Guide]

Last updated on April 17th, 2025 at 11:08 pm

Welcome to Hollywood! Oh wait… I meant Brasov! Easy mistake to make, right? Both have those iconic white-letter signs on a hill, but while Hollywood has palm trees and celebrity mansions, Brasov greets you with towering pine trees and medieval charm… and probably a bear of two wandering around (but hey, that’s just part of the Brasov experience!). And instead of Hollywood Hills, you get the majestic Carpathian Mountains. Honestly, I think we got the better deal.

Brasov is a charming medieval city located in the heart of Transylvania, Romania. It boasts a rich history dating back to the 13th century, stunning Gothic and Baroque architecture, and an incredibly well-preserved Old Town. Whether you’re wandering through its cobbled streets, hiking up Mount Tâmpa for panoramic views, or using it as a base to explore nearby castles and fortresses, Brasov offers something for every traveler.

When searching for what to do in Brasov, you’ll come across plenty of articles from foreign bloggers who visited for just a couple of days. While these can be helpful, they often miss the hidden gems only locals know about. As a local, I’ll give you the real insider’s guide—without the common mistakes or inaccuracies you’ll often find elsewhere.

For example, one of the top-ranking articles claims that Brasov is the largest city in Transylvania. That’s simply not true—Cluj-Napoca holds that title. However, Brasov is the most visited city in Transylvania and ranks second in Romania for tourism, right after Bucharest. And unlike many bloggers who mix up names of attractions, you can trust that I’ll get all the details right.

If it’s you first time in our country, it will come in handy to learn a few interesting facts that tourists should know before visiting Romania.

General information about Brasov

I could keep rambling on about Brasov for hours, but as a foreigner, you first need to know that Brasov is located right in the middle of Romania, about 2.5 hours by car/train from Bucharest. Brasov has it’s own airport (Brașov-Ghimbav International Airport), opened in 2023, but because it doesn’t operate a lot of routes, most travelers still choose to enter the country from Bucharest. In case you want to leave from Bucharest Airport to Brasov right away, you have two main options: rent a car or take the train. If Brasov is part of a longer itinerary in Romania, a car is a good option. There are some amazing places that are hard (or even impossible) to reach without a car. If you can’t rent a car, hiring a guide is an excellent idea. If you only want to visit Brasov or other major Romanian cities (like Bucharest, Sibiu, Sighisoara, Cluj-Napoca) you’re good with taking the train. While researching the train ride, you will see a lot of opinions advising against taking the train. They say the trains are slow and don’t provide decent travel conditions. As a local, I’m telling you: the trains that operate on major routes are ok. Most people that talk on the internet about trains are either foreigners that visited Romania a long time ago and think the train conditions are the same they were 10-15 years ago or locals that love complaining (Romanians have the tendency to be forever unhappy with how things are going in the country). For extra comfort, you can always go 1st class or take a private trains (yes, these are an option as well on certain routes, including Bucharest-Brasov).

Another burning question is if you can get by with English in Brasov. The answer is in most places, YES. Because it has a high number of tourists all year round, people in bars, restaurants and other public places have good conversational skills. Where you might have some issues is in museums and certain other sights. Because our government is not making tourism a priority, it seems like they are not interested in hiring people with mandatory English skills. English signage is also missing in most places, but if you ask young people to help you (old people are less likely to speak English), with buying tickets or directions, they will. Or just use Google Translate for signage and restaurant menus and check this article for more tips on how to overcome language barriers. Because of the area’s multicultural background, some people also speak German or Hungarian.

Local tip: Romanians will greatly appreciate if you learn a few words and use them in conversation. A few basic phrases like learning how to say “Hello”, “Cheers”, “Thank you” or “Goodbye” can be enough. If you’re looking for a tool to learn a little bit of Romanian or another foreign language, check this article where I reviewed the best language-learning apps.

By the way, Romanian is a very interesting language. Besides being a Latin language with Slavic and many other influences, it’s also very creative. We have a lot of ways to say something in funny ways. You don’t have to trust me blindly, you can give a quick read to this article I put together of Romanian phrases translated word-for-word in English.

When to visit Brasov

I visited the city in all seasons and I can tell you every single one has its magic, BUT depending on the primary activities you choose to do, I recommend summer or winter months. Let’s elaborate a bit.

While spring and autumn are good seasons to visit Brasov (especially autumn when all the tree foliage changes colors), if you’re into sightseeing, summer is great. Spring and autumn often bring heavy rainfall, which can be an inconvenient.

Because Brasov is located in a depression, with towering mountains around it, in summer it will not be as hot as in other parts of the country, such as the south. For me the weather is just right.

If you want to see Brasov in its festive mood, come visit in December when the city is adorned with lights and you can visit Brasov’s Christmas Market (or other Christmas Markets in cities like Bucharest or Sibiu).

If you’re a fan of winter sports, January/February are the best months to hit the slopes in Poiana Brasov.

Safety and Practical Tips

Brasov is a safe city, even at night. Pick-pocketing isn’t a big issue, but a little bit of caution in crowded places (like anywhere else on this planet) is advised. In short, the people are not your main concern here. What you should be aware of, is bears. Romania is considered Europe’s last wilderness reserve, and part of this title is due to the largest remaining population of wild bears among all European countries. While bear encounters in the city are rare, they do happen.

Please remember that while many bears are used to the presence of people, they are still wild and unpredictable animals. No matter how cute or friendly a bear seems, never approach or try to feed one. If you encounter cubs, you should double your vigilance. That means the mother is probably near and they can get aggressive to protect their young. If you ever see a bear, back away slowly and don’t run. When hiking, avoid carrying food in your backpack and make noise to alert wildlife of your presence. I know it sounds counterintuitive to be loud on trails, but that’s something a guide specialized in wildlife once told me. Apparently, bears will try to avoid you if they know you’re there. If you’re looking specifically to observe wildlife in Romania, then I recommend you hire a guide, as it is your safest option. Lastly, in case of a sighting, call 112, Romania’s emergency number, so they can come to your aid (if necessary) and alert other people in the area.

Another thing you should know about Brasov is that tap water is safe to drink, although many Romanians prefer bottled water. That’s entirely your call.

When it comes to money, in most places you can only pay with LEI, officially known as RON. Although Romania is part of the European Union, we haven’t adopted the Euro yet, so it’s a good idea to have enough money exchanged. My recommendation is to exchange as little money as possible in airports, because the exchange rates are not good. There are multiple exchange offices around the city (Casa de schimb valutar), with 0% commission, so these are the best option. You can also use a multi-currency card, such as Revolut (widely used in Romania) to virtually transfer money into a LEI account, because you can pay with card in most places, maybe excepting small shops and traditional markets, if you plan on visiting some.

Transportation Options In and Around Brasov

Getting around Brașov is easy. Exploring the surrounding area is so-and-so, depending on where you want to go. First, to explore the Old Town you just have to walk. The historical center of Brașov is compact, charming, and best explored on foot. Most attractions—like Piața Sfatului, the Black Church, Rope Street or Catherine’s Gate—are all within walking distance of each other. Plus, walking lets you stumble upon hidden courtyards, artisan shops, and cozy cafés that you’d miss otherwise.

For exploring other parts of the town, Brașov has a well-organized bus system operated by RATBV. It’s reliable and budget-friendly. One trip is 4 LEI (under 1 euro). Buy tickets from kiosks or use the 24Pay mobile app, available in Google Play and Apple Store. Just make sure to validate your ticket as soon as you board. Buses run frequently to areas like the Schei District, the train station, and Poiana Brașov.

Taxis are also an option, but I don’t necessarily recommend them, unless you have a good reason for not wanting to use Uber or Bolt. Both apps are available in Brașov and are great for quick, hassle-free rides across the city. They’re usually cheaper and more trustworthy than traditional taxis.

Local tip: Bolt tends to be slightly cheaper than Uber in Brașov.

Brașov is the perfect base for exploring nearby gems like castles, citadels, and mountain resorts. If you don’t have a rented car, you can visit some attractions, like Rasnov or Bran Castle by bus or mini bus (Maxi Taxi). Sibiu or Sighisoara are easily accessible by train. Use the CFR Calatori website or app to check schedules and book tickets, but be aware that you can’t book tickets more than 30 days in advance.

Of course, you can always opt for organized tours (private or shared). Many local companies offer half, full or multiple day trips to Bran Castle, Râșnov Fortress, Peleș Castle, or even bear-watching tours in the wild. Most tours leave from central Brașov and include transport, tickets, and a guide.

Accommodation Options

Brașov has something for every traveler—whether you’re looking for a cozy guesthouse, a boutique hotel with medieval charm, or a modern apartment with mountain views. Here’s a breakdown of the best areas and types of accommodation to help you find the perfect place to stay. Over the years, I stayed in many types of accommodations, so I can recommend you some good options.

If you want to wake up to the sight of pastel-colored buildings and cobblestone streets, stay in Centrul Vechi (the Old Town). You’ll be within walking distance of Brașov’s top attractions, cafes, and restaurants.

Just outside the Old Town walls, Schei is a quieter neighborhood with traditional Romanian houses and a more residential feel. It’s still walkable to the city center but offers a more local experience.

If you’re visiting in winter for skiing or just want to wake up surrounded by mountains, Poiana Brașov is the place to be. It’s only 20 minutes from the city, and you’ll find ski resorts, hiking trails, and mountain lodges. Poiana Brașov is ideal for winter stays, but I wouldn’t choose it if I wanted to explore the city daily.

I also have some tips for booking accommodation in Brasov. First of all, book early if visiting in peak seasons (summer and winter). Also, parking is limited in the Old Town—if you have a car, check if your hotel provides parking. Finally, Romanians mostly use Booking.com and Airbnb to book accommodation, and many Airbnb places are on Booking as well. I recommend checking both platforms to see which one offers a better deal.

A Super Brief History Of Brasov For Context

Brașov was founded in the 13th century by Teutonic Knights and became a big medieval trade center thanks to the Saxons. That’s why the Old Town looks like something straight out of a fairy tale—cobbled streets, colorful Baroque buildings, and impressive fortified churches.

During medieval times, Brașov was one of Transylvania’s most important cities, surrounded by thick defensive walls and bastions. You can still see parts of them today! The Saxons left behind a strong cultural and architectural influence, which is why you’ll notice German-style houses, grand squares, and, of course, the iconic Black Church—the largest Gothic church in Eastern Europe. Over the centuries, Brașov has been part of various empires (Hungarian, Ottoman, Habsburg, and eventually Romanian), but it has always maintained its unique identity as a mix of cultures.

And there you have it—just enough history to impress your travel buddies without feeling like a school lecture! Now, let’s explore what makes Brașov so special.

Top Things To Do In Brasov

1. Stroll Around Piața Sfatului (Council Square)

Start your journey in the heart of Brașov—Piața Sfatului. Surrounded by pastel-colored Baroque buildings and lively cafés, this square has been the city’s main gathering place for centuries. Admire the iconic Council House, which now houses the History Museum, The Clock Tower and Brasov Tourist Office and take a moment to soak in the atmosphere. It’s also a great spot to people-watch while enjoying a coffee or a delicious meal at one of the many good restaurants you will find here.

2. Step Inside In Biserica Neagra (The Black Church)

Brașov’s most famous landmark, the Black Church, is an absolute must-visit. This massive Gothic cathedral, the largest in Eastern Europe, earned its name after a fire in 1689 blackened its walls. Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection of Ottoman-era rugs and one of Romania’s largest pipe organs. If you’re lucky, you might even catch an organ concert!

3. Hike (or Take the Cable Car) Up Tâmpa (Mount Tâmpa)

For the best view in town, head up Mount Tâmpa, the 960-meter-high peak towering over Brașov. If you’re feeling adventurous, take the scenic hiking trail to the top (it takes about an hour), or opt for the quick cable car ride. Once there, snap a photo with the BRAȘOV sign—our version of the Hollywood sign—before soaking in the breathtaking panorama of the city and the surrounding Carpathian Mountains.

4. Walk Through Catherine’s Gate Like a Medieval Traveler

Poarta Ecaterinei (Catherine’s Gate) is Brașov’s last remaining medieval gate, built in the 16th century. With its fairy tale-like towers, it looks straight out of a storybook. This was once the only entrance for Romanians, as they weren’t allowed to live inside the Saxon city walls. Today, it’s a great spot for history lovers and Instagram enthusiasts alike.

5. Squeeze Through Strada Sforii (Rope Street)

Ever wanted to walk through one of the narrowest streets in Europe? Strada Sforii is just over a meter wide and was originally built as a passage for firefighters. Today, it’s a fun little detour and a great place for a quirky photo.

6. Climb to the White Tower & Black Tower for Epic Views

For another stunning view of Brașov, take a short walk up to the White Tower and Black Tower, two medieval watchtowers overlooking the Old Town. Despite their names, neither tower is actually black or white! The climb is short but steep, and the reward is an incredible view of Brașov’s red rooftops and the towering Black Church.

7. Explore the Schei District & Visit Șcheii Brașovului Church

Venture beyond the old Saxon walls to Schei, Brașov’s historic Romanian neighborhood. Unlike the well-planned streets of the Old Town, this district has a more rustic feel, with charming houses, narrow alleys, and Orthodox churches. One highlight is Saint Nicholas Church, a stunning Orthodox church dating back to the 15th century, which also houses Romania’s first school.

8. Step Back in Time at the First Romanian School Museum

Located in the Schei District, this small but fascinating museum is where Romania’s first lessons in the Romanian language were taught. You can see ancient books, wooden desks, and old printing presses, giving you a glimpse into Romania’s early education system. The guides here are incredibly passionate and will make history come alive with their stories.

9. Visit Weavers’ Bastion – The Best-Preserved Fortification in Brașov

If you want to step back in time and see Brașov’s medieval defense system up close, don’t miss Weavers’ Bastion (Bastionul Țesătorilor). Built by the city’s weavers’ guild in the 15th and 16th centuries, this bastion is one of the best-preserved fortifications in Brașov. Unlike other towers and bastions that have suffered damage over the centuries, Weavers’ Bastion still stands strong, giving visitors a true feel of the city’s medieval past.

Inside, you’ll find a fascinating museum showcasing old weapons, armor, and models of Brașov’s medieval fortifications. The highlight? A giant wooden scale model of how Brașov looked in the 1600s! If you’re a history buff or just love old castles and fortresses, this is a great place to explore.

Bonus tip: The bastion also hosts concerts and cultural events thanks to its amazing acoustics—so if you’re lucky, you might catch a live performance inside this historic fortress!

10. Escape to Poiana Brașov – Romania’s Top Mountain Resort

Just a short 20-minute drive from Brașov, Poiana Brașov is the country’s most famous mountain resort and a paradise for outdoor lovers all year round. Whether you visit in winter for skiing or in summer for hiking, this alpine getaway offers breathtaking scenery and plenty of activities.

Poiana Brașov is Romania’s top ski destination, with over 24 km of ski slopes ranging from beginner-friendly runs to challenging black slopes. The resort has modern lifts, ski schools, and rental shops, making it a great spot for both first-timers and experienced skiers. And compared to other European ski resorts, prices here are super affordable!

When the snow melts, Poiana Brașov turns into a green paradise perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The trails leading to Postăvaru Peak (1,799m) offer stunning panoramic views of the Carpathians. If you prefer something more relaxed, you can enjoy a picnic by the lake or take a scenic gondola ride to admire the mountains without breaking a sweat.

11. Explore the Trails in Postăvaru Massif

Just above Poiana Brașov lies Postăvaru Peak, which offers fantastic hiking and biking trails through dense pine forests and alpine meadows.

• Hike to the peak (1,799m) or take the gondola from Poiana for quicker access
• In summer, it’s perfect for trail runners and mountain bikers
• In winter, this area turns into a ski and snowboard haven

12. Go Horseback Riding in the Countryside

Fancy a slower, more scenic way to enjoy the outdoors? Several ranches and riding schools in and around Brașov offer horseback riding tours through the hills, forests, and nearby villages. Great for beginners and families too.

Try places in Ghimbav, Râșnov or Poiana Brașov many of which offer 1–3 hour rides. Personally, I chose to go a little bit further (but still do-able in a day trip), in Valea Avrigului (2 hours away from Brasov by car), to Hermannstadt Mountain Horses.

13. Rock Climbing & Adventure Parks

Râșnov Gorge (Cheile Râșnoavei) is a popular rock climbing spot, with routes for all levels and even options for bungee jumping (if you’re feeling brave).

Parc Aventura Brașov is a fun outdoor adventure park just outside the city, featuring zip lines, rope courses, and treetop challenges. Great for kids and grown-ups who still act like kids.

14. Go Bear Watching in the Wild

Yes—real bears! Brașov is one of the few places in Europe where you can safely observe wild brown bears in their natural habitat (not a zoo).

Local guides and rangers organize ethical, guided tours to special bear hides near Zărnești or Bălan, usually at dusk.

It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and tours are run with strict safety and conservation rules.

15. Taste the Best of Brașov’s Local Cuisine

No trip to Brașov is complete without indulging in some delicious Romanian food! The city is packed with cozy restaurants and traditional inns (hanuri) where you can try hearty Transylvanian dishes influenced by Saxon, Hungarian, and Romanian flavors. Here are some must-try dishes:

Sarmale (Stuffed Cabbage Rolls): Considered Romania’s national dish, sarmale are cabbage leaves stuffed with minced pork, rice, and spices, then slow-cooked in a clay pot. They’re usually served with mămăligă (Romanian-style polenta) and a dollop of sour cream. Perfect comfort food!

Bulz (Grilled Polenta with Cheese and Bacon): This mountain dish is a must-try in Brașov! It’s made of polenta stuffed with salty brânză de burduf (sheep’s cheese), then grilled until crispy, topped with bacon and sometimes a fried egg. It’s hearty, cheesy, and absolutely delicious!

Papanasi (Romanian Donuts with Sour Cream and Jam): If you have a sweet tooth, papanasi is the dessert to order. These deep-fried cheese doughnuts are served with a generous amount of sour cream and fruit jam (usually blueberry or sour cherry). They’re crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and ridiculously good!

Ciorbă (Traditional Sour Soup): Romanians love their sour soups, and in Brașov, you’ll find plenty of options, from ciorbă de burtă (tripe soup) to ciorbă de fasole (bean soup, often served in a bread bowl). They’re tangy, hearty, and perfect after a long day of exploring.

Tochitură (Transylvanian Meat Stew): A dish made for meat lovers! Tochitură is a rich stew of pork, sausages, and spices, served with polenta, cheese, and a fried egg on top. It’s a true Romanian feast on a plate!

Wash It All Down with Local Drinks:

• Try a glass of țuică (strong plum brandy) or palincă (even stronger fruit brandy) if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Romanian wines are also excellent—ask for a local Fetească Neagră red wine.
• In winter, warm up with a cup of vin fiert (mulled wine) while strolling through Brașov’s Christmas market!

My personal restaurant recommendations in Brasov:

• Passage: Go there for the best gourmet burgers in town.
• JB Burger: Another great burger restaurant in Brasov that never disappoints.
• Pizza Radu: You’d be surprised to learn that Romanians make really good pizza. Go to Pizza Radu to convince yourself.
• Old City Pub by Csíki Sör: Recommended for traditional food, great cocktails and good vibes overall.
• Kruhnen Musik Halle: I recommend you go there on a Friday or Saturday night to experience a mix of good food and live music.
• Dei Frati: Simply the best pasta and wines.
• Bistro de l’Arte: The owner of this place is also the chef. Her name is Oana Coanta and she won many awards for her cooking over the years. You can’t go wrong with this one.
• Sub Tampa: Come here for a more elegant dining experience. They also have traditional Romanian food you can’t miss.

Day Trips from Brasov

Brașov is not only a gem in itself—it’s also perfectly located as a launchpad to some of Romania’s most iconic landmarks, natural wonders, and fairytale villages. Whether you’re chasing castles, charming towns, or dramatic mountain views, you’ll find a dozen reasons to leave the city for the day (and come back loving it even more).

16. Bran Castle – Romania’s Most Famous Attraction

📍 Bran ~30 km | 🕒 ~40 minutes

Accessible by: car, bus or guided tour.

Known as “Dracula’s Castle,” Bran Castle is perched dramatically on a cliff and surrounded by mystery. While the Dracula connection is mostly a tourist myth, the castle itself is real. But to be honest, if you don’t care about the Dracula stuff, I recommend visiting other castles and fortresses on this list more. Personally, I like the exterior vibe of the castle more than the inside, as the rooms can be underwhelming for some. If you stop at the nearby local market for souvenirs, please be aware that many of the Dracula trinkets are cheap and not good quality. You’ll also find there wine with the name of Dracula on it. Don’t fall in their tourist traps, we have MUCH better wines than that.

How to get to Bran Castle? By car, it’s pretty straight-forward. Note that you’ll go through Rasnov on your way to Bran, so you can include the Rasnov Citadel as well in your day trip. By bus, your departing point in Brasov is from “Autogara 2 Transbus Codreanu”. The busses are set to leave every 30 minutes on workdays and every hour on weekends and they also make return trips. There is also a wide selection of guided tours from both Bucharest and Brasov and these usually bundle up Bran Castle, Rasnov Citadel and Peles Castle in one day.

17. Peleș Castle – A Royal Fairytale Come to Life

📍 Sinaia | ~45 km | 🕒 ~1 hour and 10 minutes

Accessible by: car, train and guided tour.

This is easily one of Europe’s most stunning castles—an architectural gem nestled in the Carpathians. This castle is easily in my top 3 castles in Romania. You can expect lavish interiors, secret passageways, and ornate woodwork. Don’t miss the nearby Pelișor Castle (smaller, cozier, and just as lovely). Combine with a walk through Sinaia’s forest paths or a ride on the Sinaia cable car for mountain views.

Hw to get to Peles Castle? By car, it is easily accessible from both Bucharest and Brasov. From Brasov, you’ll reach it in approximate 1 hour and 10 minutes and from Bucharest in about 2 hours (it can be more depending on the traffic). There is no public bus available between Brasov and Sinaia, but you can take the train. This is the option I recommend the most because you don’t risk being stuck in traffic, especially on weekends when there are a lot of tourists in the area. If you prefer the comfort of not worrying about transportation and you also appreciate some extra knowledge on the places you visit, go for a guided tour, available from Bucharest, as well as Brasov.

18. Râșnov Fortress – History with a View

📍 Rasnov ~16 km | 🕒 ~25 minutes

Accessible by: car, bus, train and guided tour.

A robust medieval citadel built for defense, offering sweeping views and thick stone walls that once protected villagers from invasions. Because the citadel was built on a hill top, you must ride the funicular or hike to reach it. If you’re on a family vacation with kids, you must know that you can stop at the nearby Dino Park, where the little ones will have the chance to learn a lot about dinosaurs and have fun in the process.

How to get to Rasnov Fortress? With a car, the ride to Rasnov from Brasov will only take 25 minutes. There are also busses (starting from the same Autogara 2 as the Bran Castle busses) or trains (including private operators). Again if you’re interested in bundling up as many attractions in one day, a guided tour is the way to go, as you’ll save so much time.

19. Sibiu – A Charming Transylvanian City

📍 Sibiu ~140 km | 🕒 ~2.5 hours

Accessible by: car, bus, train and guided tour.

Sibiu’s pastel facades, “eyelid” windows, and elegant squares make it one of the prettiest cities in Romania. In just one day, you can Explore Large Square (Piața Mare), the Small Square (Piata Mica), the Bridge of Lies, climb the Council Tower for city views and see a few museums (if you have to pick just one, I recommend Brukenthal or Astra Museum). Check my guide to Sibiu for more inspiration. This city was European Capital of Culture in 2007 and is ideal if you’re in the mood for museums, cafes, and a relaxed cultural vibe.

How to get to Sibiu? If you’re choosing the car option, you can also stop on the way to see Fagaras Fortress. There are some busses that depart near Brasov train station, but it’s a bit of a hassle finding them, so I recommend taking the train instead, as it’s more straightforward.

20. Sighișoara – The Last Inhabited Citadel in Europe

📍 Sighisoara ~120 km | 🕒 ~2 hours

Accessible by: car, train and guided tour.

Step straight into a storybook—Sighișoara is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. Fun fact: It is the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler (a.k.a. the real Dracula). You can expect colorful buildings, cobbled streets, and a clock tower you can climb. It’s smaller and quieter than Sibiu, with a hauntingly beautiful vibe.

How to get to Sighisoara? By car, Sighisoara is 2 hours away from Brasov and on your way there you can stop to see Rupea Fortress and Saxon villages with fortified churches, such as Bunesti, Crit, Saschiz or even Viscri (the village where King Charles has bought a house). There are no busses available, but you can take the train. The ride will be around three hours and a half, which is a bit much and it may not be a good option for a day trip.

21. Viscri – The Prince’s Favorite Village

📍 Viscri ~80 km | 🕒 ~1.5–2 hours

A tiny Saxon village that’s gained international attention thanks to King Charles III, who owns a house here. The fortified church of this village is an UNESCO site. Stroll through dirt roads, spot free-roaming geese (hope you’re not afraid of them as I am), and experience authentic village life. Such a day trip is great for slow travelers and those seeking a taste of rural Romania.

22. Saxon Villages & Fortified Churches – Medieval Hidden Gems

📍 Within 30–90 km

Brașov sits at the heart of Saxon heritage. The surrounding countryside is dotted with fortified churches—some UNESCO-listed, many completely uncrowded.

• Prejmer: one of the best-preserved fortified churches
• Hărman, Criț, and Meșendorf: peaceful villages with lovely churches and local charm
• Ideal for a self-drive or guided rural day trip

23. Făgăraș Fortress – A Castle Surrounded by a Moat

📍 Fagarars ~70 km | 🕒 ~1 hour

Right in the center of Făgăraș town, this fortress has medieval roots and Renaissance upgrades. Fagaras Fortress is often overlooked by tourists, which makes it a peaceful stop. Walk the ramparts and explore the museum inside and then combine with a scenic drive through the countryside.

24. Rupea Fortress – Dramatic Ruins with Epic Views

📍 ~65 km | 🕒 ~1 hour

Set on a rugged hilltop, Rupea is less restored than some of the other castles, which adds to its wild charm. The fortress offers panoramic views over the hills and villages below. It is easy to pair this attraction with a visit to Viscri or Sighișoara. Here you’ll have great photo opportunities, especially at sunset.

25. Piatra Craiului National Park – For Wild Nature Lovers

📍 ~40 km | 🕒 ~1 hour

This park offers some of the most dramatic alpine scenery in Romania. Hike the Zărnești Gorge (Cheile Zărneștiului) for limestone cliffs and dense forest. Spot wildlife, including chamois and birds of prey. More advanced hikers can attempt the Piatra Craiului ridge for epic mountain views.

Conclusion: What To Do In Brasov

Whether you’re here for the medieval charm, the mountain air, or the legends of Dracula, Brașov delivers more than most people expect—and then some.

It’s the kind of place where you can sip coffee in a cobbled square in the morning, hike through a forest by lunch, and be back in time for traditional Romanian food and a glass of țuică by dinner.

And unlike those travel blogs that breeze through in 48 hours, now you’ve got the local scoop—from hidden corners and historical quirks to real tips that make a difference.

Brașov isn’t just a stopover. It’s a place you feel—in the quiet of the Schei streets, the crunch of snow underfoot in Poiana, or the buzz of Piața Sfatului on a sunny afternoon. Stay a little longer, look a little closer, and Brașov might just surprise you.

Ready to explore? I’ll see you under the “Brașov” sign. (No palm trees, but the pines are just as good 😉)