Things to Do in Brașov: A Complete Guide to the Best Attractions & Activities

Are you planning your trip to Transylvania and searching for the ultimate guide to Brasov activities?

You’ve just found the ultimate resource. As passionate locals who have lived in and guided travelers around Brașov for decades, we spend every day exploring the city, hiking the surrounding mountains and finding the perfect photography spots. We know the city’s every secret and hidden gem.

This exclusive, locally-curated list of the Top 35 Attractions and Activities is designed to save you time, money and hassle during your Romanian holiday. Ready to explore Brașov?

Considered by many the most beautiful city in Romania, Brașov (pronounced [braˈʃov]) lies in the central part of the country, inside an arch in the Carpathian mountains. It is located in the Land of Bârsa or ”Țara Bârsei”, a name which seems to derive from the name of the river ”Bârsa”, one of the main courses of water flowing in this depression, from South-West to North-East.

Contents

A bit of history about Brașov

Brașov’s history dates back to the Neolithic era. Around 1700 B.C., the region that would become Brașov was inhabited by the people of Schneckenberg (The Snails’ Hill), a Bronze Age settlement.

After the 4th century B.C., several Dacian settlements are believed to have existed on Mount Tâmpa, Solomon’s Rocks (Pietrele lui Solomon), Valea Cetății, Șprenghi, Bartolomeu, and Stupini.

In the 12th century, Saxon colonists founded the medieval settlement here. By 1344, the King of Hungary, Louis I, visited Brașov, which was already one of the largest towns in Transylvania, with around 3,000 inhabitants.

During the 14th century, Brașov was granted several privileges, establishing it as the most important commercial center in medieval Transylvania. The first guild in Brașov was the furriers’ and skinners’ guild.

In 1421, the Ottoman armies devastated Brașov. This was the moment when major fortification works commenced.

The first Romanian-written document in the city’s archives dates back to 1521, received by the mayor of Brașov. This was an important milestone for the Romanian language, as it marked the beginning of written literary Romanian.

Between 1556 and 1583, Deacon Coresi, a key figure in the development of the Romanian written language, worked in Brașov, translating and printing religious texts. His work, including the translation and publication of books such as the ‘Evangelia’ and ‘Psaltirea’, played a crucial role in the development and standardization of the Romanian literary language.

On April 21st, 1689, the fortified town was devastated by a massive fire. It was the greatest architectonic catastrophe in the history of Brașov.

In the Middle Ages, the main ethnic communities in Brașov were the Saxons, Romanians, and Hungarians. However, until 1781, only Saxons were allowed to live within the citadel’s walls.

During the communist era, the demographic makeup of Brașov shifted, with 86% of the population being Romanian. This shift was mainly due to industrialization. Afterward, Brașov grew to become one of Romania’s major industrial cities.

Brașov is now one of the most important touristic destinations in Romania, no matter the season. From Spring to Autumn, this area is highly appreciated for the multitude of things to do in Brașov, its hiking trails and nature, while during Winter, ski enthusiasts can enjoy skiing in Poiana Brașov, the most important winter resort in Romania.

Top Brasov Activities You Can’t Miss

Brasov Activities: Explore the City’s Historical Monuments

We’ve created a visual guide to Brașov, featuring a recommended walking itinerary. Download it to take with you or use directly from your mobile for an easy tour around the city.

Infographic: Explore Brașov’s Historical Landmarks

Brasov Activities: Visit Historical Monuments – The Black Church

The Black Church, located southwest of Piața Sfatului, is the largest Gothic church east of Vienna and one of Brașov’s most iconic landmarks. Standing at 89 meters in length and 37 meters in width, the church dominates the city’s skyline. Its 65-meter tower offers breathtaking views over the city.

Beyond its impressive size, the church is a cultural treasure. It is home to one of Europe’s richest collections of Oriental carpets, as well as the largest mobile church bell in Romania, weighing 6 tons and the largest pipe organ in the country, built between 1836-1839 by Carl August Buchholz from Berlin.

A visit to the Black Church is a must in your Brasov activities list. Its tumultuous history offers a fascinating glimpse into the historical background of Transylvania and the Saxon community. The church is a remarkable symbol of Brașov’s rich cultural heritage.

Practical Details: Hours and Entrance Fees

Based on the current schedule, here are the details for planning your visit:

Visiting Hours:

• Summer Season (April 1st – October 15th):
  • Sunday & Monday: 12:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
  • Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.

• Winter Season (October 16th – March 31st):

  • Sunday & Monday: 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

  • Tuesday – Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Entrance Fees:

• Adults: 25 RON (5 EURO)

• Retirees / University Students: 20 RON (4 EURO) (with card requested)

• Students (up to 18 years): 15 RON (3 EURO)(with student card requested)

• Free Entry: Children up to age seven, disabled persons.

Note:

• The Black Church is closed on the 1st of January and 25th of December.

• Local’s Tip: If you’re visiting between June and September, don’t miss the opportunity to attend one of the famous organ concerts and experience the stunning Buchholz organ in action. It’s a truly memorable experience!

Brasov Activities: Visit Saint Bartholomew Church

Saint Bartholomew Church is the oldest building in Brașov, dates back to the early 13th century. Built in the Cistercian monastic style, it is a key example of medieval architecture in Transylvania.

Today, only the choir and two chapels on the eastern side remain from the original structure. A visit here offers a fascinating glimpse into Brașov’s rich history and religious heritage.

Although visiting hours are limited, the church is relatively close to the city center, so we recommend taking a walk to enjoy the surroundings. You can easily find the church here.

Locals’ tip: For the best view of Saint Bartholomew Church, hike up the nearby hill. The panoramic view of the church and the surrounding area is well worth the effort!

Brasov Activities: Visit Saint Nicholas Orthodox Church in Șchei

The Saint Nicholas Orthodox Church in Șchei is one of the oldest and most important religious sites in Brașov, dating back to 1495. It is a key landmark for those interested in Romania’s rich Orthodox heritage and medieval history.

The church’s interior was painted by the renowned artist Costin Petrescu in 1940, with murals depicting two significant historical events. On the northern wall, you’ll find a depiction of Prince Michael the Brave’s entrance into Brașov, a moment marking an important chapter in Romanian history. On the southern wall, there is a scene illustrating the coronation of King Ferdinand I of Greater Romania in Alba Iulia, an event that symbolized the unification of the Romanian people in 1918.

A visit to Saint Nicholas Church offers a unique opportunity to experience the traditions of the Romanian Orthodox Church and explore the vibrant history of Brașov. The church is located in the Șchei neighborhood, one of the oldest areas in the city, providing visitors with a chance to enjoy the local atmosphere and architecture.

Brasov Activities: Visit the First Romanian School

The First Romanian School, located in the same courtyard as the Saint Nicholas Orthodox Church, was built in 1495 and holds a special place in Romania’s educational history. It is here that, in 1583, the first Romanian language classes were held, marking a milestone in the development of Romanian culture and language.

The school remained in operation until 1850, when it was replaced by Andrei Șaguna College, but its legacy lives on through the museum and collections housed within its walls.

Museum of the First Romanian School

The museum at the First Romanian School was officially organized in 1964, although collections of archaic and original items were started in 1933. It houses a remarkable collection of early Slavic and Romanian books, including the first Romanian Bible and what can be considered the first school magazine in Romania. The library holds over six thousand books, many of which were used in the school during its operation.

Unique Artifacts and the First Romanian Printing Press

A highlight of the museum is the first Romanian printing press, which produced only 39 books due to the labor-intensive nature of the process. Despite the small number of books printed, the press is responsible for several significant milestones in Romanian history:

• The first Romanian letter in Latin was printed here.

• The first Romanian schoolbook was created using this press.

• The first Romanian Bible, printed on goatskin, with a cover weighing a hefty seven kilograms.

A visit to the First Romanian School offers a fascinating journey into the history of Romania’s education system and the development of the Romanian language.

Brasov Activities: Visit Saint Catherine’s Gate

Saint Catherine’s Gate is the only remaining entrance gate to the old part of Brașov. Built in 1559, it was the main entrance from the Șchei neighborhood until the first half of the 19th century.

The gate is historically significant not only as a key point of entry but also for the four turrets around the main tower. These turrets are a reminder that the community had the right to apply capital punishment—known as Jus gladii—a right that must have been quite powerful back in the day!

Above the gate, you’ll notice Brașov’s coat of arms, featuring a crown placed on top of tree roots, symbolizing the city’s deep-rooted history and traditions

Brasov Activities: Visit the Citadel

The Brașov Citadel, originally built as a watchtower, was constructed in 1524. A bastion was erected around it, but it was destroyed by Petru Rareș’ army in 1529. The fortifications were rebuilt in the mid-16th century and expanded at the beginning of the 17th century with the addition of four new bastions. After 1688, the Citadel was occupied by the Austrian garrison.

In 1932, it was offered to King Carol II of Romania by the Brașov City Hall and turned into a military prison. It was restored in 1975 and opened as a tourist attraction in 1981.

Current Status of the Citadel

Currently, the Brașov Citadel is closed to visitors due to restoration work. As of 2025, entry to the Citadel is not allowed for the general public. However, this situation has changed over time, so it is recommended to check with local authorities or tourism offices for the latest updates regarding access.

While the Citadel may not be open, visitors can still hike up the hill and enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of Brașov from the top!

Brasov Activities: Visit the Weaver’s Bastion

The Weaver’s Bastion is one of Brașov’s hidden gems, often underrated by visitors. Located within the city’s medieval walls, it was built in two stages, between 1421-1436 and 1570-1573, and was cared for by the Weaver’s Guild. It is the best-preserved bastion in Brașov and the only one still open to tourists.

Since 1910, the bastion has been transformed into a museum. In 2001, a permanent exhibition was opened, and the main attractions include a 1896 scale model of how Brașov looked in the 1600s. Another highlight is the main building, resembling an amphitheater, known for its exceptional acoustics. This space has hosted several musical concerts over the years.

Practical Information:

• Entrance Fee: 10 LEI per person

• Opening Hours: Every day from 9 AM to 5:00 PM, except for Mondays, when it’s closed.

Brașov is an ancient medieval city, rich in history and exploring its many secrets can take a lot of time. If you have enough time, we recommend visiting the following historical landmarks:

• House of Mureșenilor Museum,
• Brașov History Museum,
• Holy Trinity Church,
• Church of the Assumption of Virgin Mary,
• Museum of Urban Civilization,
• St. John Franciscan church,
• Church of St. Peter and Paul apostles,
• The White and the Black towers(closed to the public, but offering fantastic views of Brașov)
• Beth Israel Synagogue,
• Art Museum and Ethnographic Museum (both hosting impressive collections).

Entrance fees for these attractions are affordable, making Brașov an excellent destination for history lovers.

Brasov Activities: Visit the Famous Rope Street

The Rope Street, one of Brașov’s most iconic attractions, was originally built as an access passage for firefighters, connecting Poarta Șchei and Cerbului Street. First mentioned in the 17th century, it is now known as one of the narrowest streets in Europe, measuring only 80 meters in length and ranging from 1.11 to 1.35 meters in width.

However, as of late 2025, the street is temporarily closed for restoration and safety repairs. Due to ongoing work, visitors cannot currently walk through it. The closure is expected to last until spring 2026, with the aim of preserving and securing this historic passage. While the street is closed, you can still admire it from nearby areas and take great photos of its distinctive narrowness.

Brasov Activities: Go to the Top of Mount Tâmpa

One of the first things any tourist notices upon arriving in Brașov is the iconic Hollywood-style letters at the top of Mount Tâmpa. These letters weren’t always there and are a relatively recent addition.

Getting to the top of Tâmpa is easy and there are several hiking trails to choose from, depending on your fitness level. If you want a quicker option, you can take the cable car. No judgment here—not everyone has a mountain in their backyard!

Enjoy the View from Mount Tâmpa

Once at the top, head behind the BRAȘOV letters for a breathtaking view of the city and the surrounding area. But don’t stop there! This is not the highest point of Tâmpa. You’ll need to follow a 2-3 minute trail to reach the true summit, where there is no fence between you and the stunning landscape.

And now, for a perfect ending to your hike, stop by the newly opened Panoramic Restaurant. Located at the top of Tâmpa, the restaurant offers an exceptional dining experience with amazing views over Brașov and the surrounding mountains. Whether you’re looking for a meal or just a refreshing drink, it’s the perfect spot to relax after your hike.

Our suggestion? Make it an evening hike to catch one of the most beautiful sunsets in Romania.

Don’t worry about bears or the darkness. The trails are often busy with trail runners and hikers, so you won’t be alone. Just remember to take a headlamp or make sure your phone battery is charged if you’re hiking in the evening.

Brasov Activities: Bear Watching Tour in the Wild

One of the most exciting experiences in Brașov is taking part in a bear watching tour in the wild. These tours typically start in the afternoon and take place in the forests near Brașov. To join a tour, simply book your tour here.

What to Expect on a Bear Watching Tour

Typically, you will be picked up from Brașov by your guide, who will take you to the designated bear hide. Alternatively, if you prefer, you can drive your own car to the meeting point, where you will meet the forest ranger to begin the activity.

Ir’s important to stay quiet and avoid using camera flash or focus assist lamps. Bears are cautious creatures and will run away at the slightest disturbance. Keep these rules in mind to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience.

For Photography Enthusiasts: Exclusive Bear Hides

If you’re an avid wildlife photographer or want a more exclusive viewing experience, we highly recommend booking a private tour at one of our specialized bear hides. These private hides are designed for those who want a quiet and undisturbed experience, with no other visitors around to ensure the best possible wildlife observation conditions.

For more information or to book your private bear watching tour, simply click here.

Explore the Land of Volcanoes

For a more immersive experience, consider joining a tour in the Land of Volcanoes, near Lake St. Anna. 

This area offers a specialized bear hide that is perfect for wildlife photographers and nature enthusiasts. Located at ground level, this hide provides an excellent view of the bears, sometimes as close as 10-15 meters. With one-way mirrors between you and the bears, you can enjoy the experience without disturbing them.

While you’re there, make sure to explore Lake St.J Anna, the only volcanic crater lake in Eastern Europe, as well as the Mohos Peat Bog and the Stinky Cave, known for its high gas emissions.

Go hiking in the nearby mountains

11. One of the most active things to do in Brașov and the surroundings is hiking in one of the numerous mountains situated near the city. The most accessible massif is Postăvaru. You can reach there by choosing one of the many marked trails starting from Brașov or, if you want to save some time, take bus number 20 from Livada Poștei that will take you to Poiana Brașov and from here, the mountain is just meters away. The easiest way is ”Drumul Roșu” – during winter this route if not recommended because it follows the main ski slope.

When there’s no snow on the mountain or during low winter season, you can reach the peak in about 2-3 hours, at a very slow pace. Just make sure you stop at Postăvaru Chalet, one of the most picturesque mountain huts in Romania. We guarantee that you will like the atmosphere, the food and the unfiltered beer… 

12. Another very accessible mountain is Piatra Mare (The Big Rock). You can reach the base if you take bus 17B from the main train station in Brașov or by foot, in about one and a half – two hours from the city center.

It is a very accessible mountain but this doesn’t mean you can go up there in flip-flops or sandals. There are several marked trails and most of them will get you first at the Piatra Mare hut. From here, you reach the summit in about one hour. At the hut, we recommend the biscuit salami 🙂

13. The third most accessible mountain is Piatra Craiului, situated near Zărnești. You can reach this city by car or, the easiest and cheapest way, by train. RegioCălători is a private railway company that operates the trains to Zărnești. You can buy the tickets online (unfortunately, there’s no English version on their website, yet) or just buy the tickets from the main train station in Brașov. There is a separate counter for RegioCălători. At the time of this article (April 2020), a one way ticket for one adult was 3.90 LEI (less that 1 Euro) and if you want to take you bike with you, it’s another 2.90 LEI. Once you get to Zărnești, it’s the end of the line. Cross the city towards the mountains and you’ll leave the paved road for a gravel road that goes in a valley. From now on, you’re in Piatra Craiului National Park. Remember to pay the entrance fee (about 5 LEI) near the Tourist Information Center, located here.

Once in Piatra Craiului, feel free to explore the area on the numerous marked mountain trails, on your own or with a guide. If you choose to go on the main ridge, our advice is to go with a licensed mountain guide. If you’re looking for something easy, you can choose to follow the main gravel road until you reach the Zărnești Gorges, a beautiful 2 kilometers long canyon with massive cliffs. Or you can go to Curmătura chalet and enjoy the nice mountain scenery, while savoring a rustic ciorbă (Romanian style soup) or a mug of tea with rum (yummy). You can even stay here overnight in basic rooms and choose a harder trail to La Om peak, on the Northern ridge.

Locals’ tip: To find your way on the marked trails, we recommend Munții Noștri, a free Romanian app that might come in handy. Don’t worry about the name, the interface uses English language.

14. Ciucaș mountains are situated 40 kilometers away from Brașov and are the least known, mainly because they have poor public access.

Same as the other mountains, you will find here several accessible marked trails that will take you to the peak, situated at 1954 meters. However, keep in mind that Ciucaș has one of the most unpredictable weather patterns in the Carpathians. Strong winds and blizzards in the winter can transform an easy hike to a nightmare. If you want to hike here on your own, keep an eye on the weather forecast and let others know where you’re going. This is an important rule regardless of the place you’re going. Otherwise, you can get help from a licensed mountain guide that will help you during your trek.

Locals’ tip: Ciucaș mountains are truly spectacular in June, when the rhododendron blooms, turning the alpine pastures pink. Also, during fall, the mountains turn orange and yellow as Mother Nature decides to express its artistic side, painting the landscape. In some conditions, you might even encounter a unique sea of clouds.

15. Last but not least, Bucegi mountains, located on the way to Bucharest, are probably the most impressive around Brașov. If you come to Transylvania by train, you will probably see them from outside your windows.

Bucegi mountains are one of the 16 natural parks in Romania and are the most accessible … by car and probably the most visited in Romania. They stand out as having the most dramatic scenery in Romania, if you don’t take into consideration Făgăraș mountains. On their Eastern side, these mountains have a very steep slope, towards Prahova Valley. On the other hand, their plateau is quite flat and here, the action of the winds and rain shaped peculiar figures like the Sphinx and Babele. Let’s not forget about the Heroes’ Cross on Caraiman, at an altitude of 2291 meters, visible for tens of kilometers away. The cross was erected between 1924-1928 to honour the memory of the soldiers from WWI.

16. Hiking the Făgăraș Mountains. Făgăraș is Romania’s longest and highest ridge and is often dubbed ‘Transylvanian Alps’. The main ridge extends east to west for over 70 km. The eastern end lies just south of Braşov, separated from the Piatra Craiului by the Bârsa Valley. The ridge ends just west of Sibiu which flows along the northern side of the Făgăraş, bends south. Geographically, the Făgăraş is the natural border between Transylvania to the north and Muntenia to the south. It also marked the border of the Habsburg Empire.

Eight of Romania’s 14 peaks over 2500m lie in the Făgăraş, including the two highest peaks in the country: Moldoveanu (2544m) in the eastern part, and the rockier Negoiu (2535m) in the western half. As many as 42 peaks are over 2400m. The first and last stages of the 90 km-long ridge route proposed in this chapter (Route 22) involve a long, slow ascent to the main ridge through forest and over long, rust-coloured grassy slopes. The middle three stages are more eventful and sometimes require some bravery and stamina, especially when traversing Romania’s most difficult scrambling section, Custura Sărății, which lies just west of Negoiu Peak (but can be bypassed). The summit path is well marked and, with the exception of some scrambling sections, the path is always clearly visible. There is no shortage of water in the Fagaras, which mostly concise igneous rocks; there are plenty of springs on the trail or a short distance fare as well as a good many glacial lakes and tarns, which make for great spots. In fact you can camp anywhere you like the Fágáraş is not a national park (vet) and therefore bivouacking is not restricted to designated areas. The ride dotted with refugees, cabanas can be found in the valleys to the north and retire descending to an altitude of 1500m or lower. The climate in the Fagaras is harsher than in most other mountainous areas in Romania; it receives the highest amount of rainfall and it is often the first to see snow.

Those who do not want to make a full traverse of the main spine, which can be tackled in five or six days if not descending to cabanas, will want to opt for one of the many access routes from the north. The northern side is much steeper than the southern side and hence the approach walks, through glacial valleys, are shorter. Access points from the north (from west to east) are Avrig, Porumbacu de Jos, Ucea de Jos, Voila and Făgăraş, which are all on the railway line from Sibiu to Braşov. In each case, though, you will have to cover quite some distance (20-30 km) before you are really at the foot of the mountains, whereas you will be right at the start if you begin at the eastern or western end in Plaiul Foii or Turnu Roşu respectively. The railway halts in the west are considerably closer to the mountains than the ones in the east. Another option would be to hitchhike (or drive) up the famous Transfăgărăşan Road from Cârța and start your hike at Bâlea Lake. There is one company that offers bus transfers to Bâlea Lake, see www.baleabus.ro (reservations only). Note that the Transfăgărăşan is open from late June until September only, with precise dates dependent on snow cover. Check www.transfagarasan.net for up-to-date info. The southern spurs, with gentler and longer slopes, are hardly frequented by tourists, except perhaps for the Rea Valley, which allows tourists to drive up to just a few hours away from the Moldoveanu Peak.

Try a cycling tour in Brașov or in the surroundings

One of the most exciting activities in this list of things to do in Brașov is cycling. Being surrounded by hills and mountains, Brașov is perfect for those seeking a cycling adventure. There are numerous trails and forest roads accessible for everyone and some a bit more difficult, for those looking for adrenaline.

17. One of the most popular biking routes is the forest road that takes cyclists from the area called Pietrele lui Solomon up to Poiana Brasov resort. It is a relaxing gravel road that goes through the forests for a few kilometers. Also, in this area, there are numerous marked hiking trails that can be used for cycling as well. Just make sure you don’t go too fast and respect other people.

18. Another popular trail among locals is at the foothills of mount Tâmpa. It goes almost entirely around the base and reaches from Șchei to Răcădău quarter. It is an easy trail with only a few meters where you need to pay attention to slippery rocks.

Starting from Astra or Noua neighborhoods, a few trails and forest roads can get you out of the bustling city directly into nature. These are usually very quiet and you’ll probably encounter only a few hikers or other local cyclists.

19. If you’re looking to go away from Brașov, you can try this route to Râșnov, which avoids the heavy traffic and takes you through green meadows near the forest. From Râșnov, you can go up to Poiana Brașov on the paved road or continue to the area called Glăjărie, from where you have the possibility to continue to Bran.

20. If you want to explore the area near Piatra Craiului mountains, you can take your bike with you on the train to Zărnești and choose where to go. A nice alternative for those with kids or who just want a relaxing 20-30 km ride is the road that goes to Plaiu Foii chalet. It was recently paved and goes through a nice and idyllic valley behind the massive mountains.

From Zărnești, you can go to Curmătura chalet through Zărnești Gorges or climb up to Măgura village, if you’re looking for that mixture of rural and mountain landscapes. Go from Măgura to Peștera and descend to Moeciu de Jos and Bran and end the loop back by going back to Zărnești through Predeluț.

21. For the roadies, a nice quiet road starts also from Zărnești and goes to Poiana Mărului and beyond, to Șinca Veche, up to Sâmbăta de Sus village near Făgăraș. The paved road has seen better days but if you just want to enjoy the scenery and breath in fresh rural Transylvanian air, then it is the perfect choice.

22. For those brave enough, there’s also the opportunity to cycle up on the Transfăgărășan road, named by Top Gear as the best road in the world. It is a bit far from Brașov but it’s totally worth it. We went there and absolutely loved it!

23. Last but not least, if you want single trails, go to Viscri – Bunești – Criț villages. A team of lovely people built here an extensive network of stunning single trails that go through idyllic forests and meadows, connecting the Saxon villages. You will meet shepherds, friendly locals and if you choose to stay here for more than a day, you will have the chance to taste organic locally sourced food and sleep in old Saxon houses.

For a hassle-free experience, you can stay at Bike Check Inn. The owner, Cornel, is a wonderful and passionate guy who will help you with everything. He even has a bunch of bikes, ranging from basic hardtail mountain bikes to the latest full suspension eBikes.

Of course, these are not the only places around Brașov where you can try cycling. The variety of things to do in Brașov give you the opportunity to mix different activities and plan yourself a wonderful holiday in Transylvania.

24. Try paragliding near Brașov

If you’re looking for the real thrill, the mountains around Brașov offer many opportunities for a paragliding tandem flight. Some of us are paragliding pilots and we can recommend the best pilots for you. The usual places for paragliding are Bunloc, in Săcele, South of Brașov and Postăvaru Mts mentioned above, but also in Șaua Măgurii or Sinaia.

The access to Bunloc is faster and therefore also it cost less. We recommend taking a taxi or uber to Bunloc ski-lift, where is the normal meeting point with your pilot.
You should know that two types of flights are possible:

• an initiation flight, that normally takes about 15 minutes in the air. However, when you calculate your time, take into account one hour from your arrival to Bunloc until landing, near the ski lift. Why? Well, it takes few minutes for the ski lift to start (it only goes up with a minimum of 6 persons); add 15 minutes to go up by cable car, add 10-15 minutes to prepare at the take-off. Plus a few minutes waiting for the good moment to take off, considering wind direction and speed. And the flight itself.
• a long flight, where the pilot will try to keep you in the air as long as possible. The long flight can be a local flight with landing at the “official” landing place (long time) or long-distance flight, called cross-country or, for short XC flight. Many pilots, as included, are keen to go for the distance, for themselves, but it is also possible to book a XC tandem flight!

Local tip: if you are going to try paragliding in Brasov, please do your arrangements before your arrival, for two reasons: 1) while other things depend mostly on yourself, paragliding is subject to weather conditions. You should aim to be flexible with other things to do in Brasov, but be prepared to fly when the weather allows. 2) For a long-distance flight is much more difficult to find a pilot (compared to an initiation flight), so please give them time to make the necessary arrangements – the pilot might not be able to do another flight that day.

Local tip 2: we recommend an XC flight if you flew before and know you react in a turbulent condition. It can be quite bumpy up there in the air on a day with a lot of atmospheric instability

Local tip 3: because we like you, our reader, we give you another hint. If you go for XC, dress adequately (warm clothes). On a good day you can reach to the cloud-base and, man is moist and cold up there. We learned it the hard, ehhr cold way. 🙂

If you’re considering paragliding and you need more help, feel free to get in touch, we’d happily help you.

Visit the fortified churches around Brașov

Transylvania is famous for its over 160 fortified churches, dating back from centuries ago. These were built by the Germans – the so-called Transylvanian Saxons – during the Middle Age and have suffered numerous damages but also reconstructions during the following centuries.

In the past, these churches were considered to be the heart of the community and remained until today, the symbols of each settlement.

The fortified churches appeared in the 13th century, as a result of the heavy attacks coming from all sides. The reinforcements were added after each attack and therefore, many of these sacred buildings changed their destination from a church into a shelter for the locals.

25. Such is the case with the Prejmer Fortified Church, which looks more like a fortress, rather than a church. This heavily fortified construction dates back to the 13th century, more exactly in 1218, when the Teutonic Knights began its construction. Because it didn’t have the advantage of higher ground, it needed to be well defended, so 14 meters high walls were built around the church. There were also five defensive towers, a watch road and a moat. One very valuable characteristic is the 4 storey storage rooms, one for each family in the village, which provided shelter during sieges. Basically, the whole structure was made to withstand a few weeks of siege from the invading armies.

The sheer dimensions of this well-preserved construction and the historical importance made Prejmer citadel a UNESCO World Heritage site worth visiting. From Brașov, you can get here by public transport, taking bus 520 or using a private transport company. Or you can simply hire a car or book a guided tour here.

26. One of Transylvania’s most enchanting villages, Viscri has conserved numerous examples of Saxon-type architecture, characterized by the alignment of their pastel-hued façades with the street, their frontons, and their large, arched gateways. The old-fashioned atmosphere and wild landscapes of Viscri have delighted Prince Charles, the heir to the throne of England, who has bought a number of properties in the area and founded the Mihai Eminescu Trust, a foundation that has restored numerous historic buildings. This has led to an upsurge in rural tourism, and there are now a host of pensions fitted out in the traditional style, where you can sample dishes made according to ancestral recipes and discover the secrets of traditional crafts,

Today, the village attracts thirty thousand tourists annually.

The fortified church of Viscri, with its two rings of defensive walls and five towers, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

27. The fortified church at Cincu village, founded by Saxon colonists in the thirteenth century on a plateau between the rivers Olt and Hârtibaciu, is dominated by a monumental fortified church set at the top of a small hill. In the Adoration of the Shepherds depicted on the altar, the painter immortalized the traditional costume of local shepherds. In front of the altar, there is a fourteen meter deep well, dug so that the villagers would have a secure source of water in case of siege. The complex also includes a small chamber named the Matrimonial Dungeon, where husbands and wives who failed to get along were brought; forced to share a single glass, a single spoon, a single fork and a single bed, they were held here until they were reconciled. In the last 150 years, there has not been a single divorce in Cincu!

28. The fortified church of Hărman – The peasant fortress of Hărman (German: Honigberg, Latin: Mons Mellis, i.e. Honey Mountain) has at its center a Romanesque basilica recorded in documents dating back to 1240.

It is protected by twelve-meter-high fortified walls with seven towers and a zwinger. In the east tower, a pre-Reformation chapel has been preserved, inside which you can see murals depicting the Last Judgement.

Although it was attacked many times, the fortress was never conquered.

Visit the castles and citadels around Brașov

Yes, we know you’re thinking of the famous Dracula’s Castle, or Bran castle…

29. Built between 1377 and 1382 by the burghers of Braşov, Bran Castle was the main bastion against invasion by the Ottoman Empire. Later, Iancu of Hunedoara (1441-56) repaired and strengthened Bran, before entrusting the defense of southern Transylvania to Vlad the Impaler, who had recently lost the throne of Wallachia. It may well be that the Impaler visited Bran which was an important border post, although there is no written record of him doing so. On 1 December 1920, the townsfolk of Brasov donated the castle to Queen Maria, in token of their gratitude for the part she played in the unification of Romania on 1 December 1918. Between 1920 and 1927, Karel Liman, architect to the Royal Court, softened the castle’s military look, subjecting the interiors to astonishing metamorphoses.

Linger in the tea house on the shore of the lake it is an old wooden barn that Queen Maria had converted into a pavilion where she took her five o’clock tea.

30. Peleș castle, located in the charming city of Sinaia, is our recommendation if you are interested in royalty, princesses, and magnificent architecture.

Built in a German new-Renaissance style, is considered one of the most impressive castles in Europe. Finished in 1883, Peleș Castle served as a summer residence for the Romanian royal family until 1947. It has a staggering 160 rooms, each richly decorated with the finest woodwork, Murano crystal chandeliers and impressive examples of European art.

This castle was the first castle in Europe to have electricity and even its own power plant and central heating.

In 1953, Peleș Castle became a National Museum but due to degradation, in 1975 it is closed until 1990, when it’s open again, for tourists.

Locals’ tip: If you choose to go to Peleș from Brașov, choose the train. Most of the time, there are traffic jams on DN1, on the way to Sinaia and back. Going by train is much cheaper and you don’t waste time looking for parking around Sinaia.

Locals’ tip: Make sure you buy the tickets for the extended tour if you choose to go here on your own. This tour gives you access to the second floor, where you can see beautifully decorated rooms and much more.

Visit some kid-friendly attractions in Brașov

31. The ZOO is located in the middle of nature, in Noua neighborhood. It has more than three hundred animals of seventy species, and is one of the county’s most popular destinations for children.

32. Aventura Park: sixteen trails of progressive difficulty, covering an area of three hectares, plus three zip lines over the central lake. The perfect place, weather you are looking for adrenaline or just relaxation.

33. Planetarium: part of the ZOO. Recently opened, the Planetarium in Brașov is the biggest in Romania and has multiple facilities at the highest standards, which allow children to enjoy a memorable virtual experience journey through the cosmos.

34. Rasnov Dino Park: located near Râșnov Castle, Dino Park features one hundred life-size dinosaurs, a 9D cinema, a 360 degree cinema, an adventure trail, a laser labyrinth and numerous interactive areas. For the first time ever, the world’s largest flying creature is reproduced here: Hatzegopteryx Thambema, discovered in the Hațeg land, in Romania. Also, visitors can see here the world’s largest dinosaur, Seismosaurus which was forty-five meters long.

35. The Seven Ladders Canyon zip line and the Râşnoavei Gorges: At the Seven Ladders: you can attempt Romania’s longest zip line installation, which stretches for 3.8 kilometers. There are thirty-seven trails here (twenty-three for adults and fourteen for children), the longest being 273 meters in length, the shortest forty-seven meters. This could also be a perfect place for adults to have fun in the middle of nature.

Well, this kindof covers most of the things to do around Brașov, but there are more. If you visited Brasov and have any comments, or if you are about to visit, you can let us know what you think!

Best time to visit Brasov

Oh, we almost forgot! In case you’re wondering when it’s the best time to visit Brasov, it really depends on what you’re looking for.

If you like skiing an winter sports in general, you might want to visit Brasov during winter. In the last years, the cold season got warmer and warmer and we believe that in about 10 years, there won’t be snow anymore. So you still have some chances. Try to find accommodation from January to February (sometimes March). This way you’ll avoid the heavy crowds that usually come here during winter holidays.

if you’re looking for hiking and cycling and good weather, April – May and end of August – September is the best time to visit Brasov, as there is less rainfall and temperatures are acceptable. Of course, pack some extra layers because the mornings and evenings can be chilly.

The rest of the year is pretty ok as well, if you ask us. June has the most rainy days of the year but everything depends on the weather, as you can probably imagine.

One important thing you must not forget: Brasov is famous for having four seasons in one day. So come prepared for snow, hot afternoons and rain as well 🙂