Brasov
Food | Wine | ArchitectureBrasov Travel Guide: Things to Know Before You Go
Brasov, a city nestled in the heart of Romania, is a remarkable destination waiting to be explored. Its exquisite blend of delicious cuisine, fine wines, and stunning architecture offers an unparalleled experience for every traveler.
When planning your trip to Brasov, there are a few things you should know beforehand. Firstly, prepare your taste buds for an extraordinary culinary adventure. The city boasts a diverse range of traditional Romanian dishes that will leave you craving more.
Apart from its gastronomic delights, Brasov is also renowned for its exceptional local wines. From the full-bodied Fetească Neagră to the crisp and refreshing Tămâioasă Românească, each sip will transport you to the picturesque vineyards that dot the Romanian countryside. Whether you’re a wine novice or an aficionado, Brasov offers a wine experience that rivals some of the best we’ve had in Italy.
As you wander through the streets of Brasov, you’ll be enchanted by its stunning architecture. The city is a treasure trove of historical beauty, with its charming cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and medieval fortresses. Stroll through the Old Town and marvel at the impressive Black Church, a Gothic masterpiece that dominates the skyline. Explore the Council Square, where you’ll find bustling markets and lively cafes, or climb to the Brasov Citadel for panoramic city views. Every corner of Brasov holds a story waiting to be discovered.
If you have a little extra time in Brasov, you will be spoiled by the amazing day trips! Consider visiting the nearby Bran Castle, famously known as Dracula’s Castle. This iconic fortress atop a hill offers a fascinating glimpse into Romania’s history and folklore. But don’t overlook the nearby town of Sinaia, home to two beautiful castles: Peles Castle and Pelisor Castle.
We visited Brasov for a month-long stay in August. During our time in Brasov, we immersed ourselves in the beauty and history of this medieval gem. The town’s picturesque landscape, complemented by its exquisite wines and architectural wonders, made it an unforgettable experience.
Below is a guide to our favorite food, wine, and architecture in Brasov, plus some additional travel tips and resources we picked up along the way. We hope this information will inspire you to plan your next trip!
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Brasov Food
When it comes to food, Brasov has something to satisfy every palate. Traditional Romanian cuisine takes center stage, with hearty dishes like sarmale (cabbage rolls) and mici (grilled minced meat rolls) being local favorites. Don’t miss the chance to try tocana de vitel cu mamaliga (veal stew with polenta), a comforting dish that epitomizes Romanian comfort food. Check out our Romanian Food page for more information.
Brasov Wine
Brasov is home to a vibrant wine scene. The majority of wine available in Brasov is locally produced. You can find more information about local wine on our Romanian Wine page.
The region is known for producing some of Romania’s finest wines, and there are plenty of opportunities to sample them in and around the town. If you prefer to stay in town, several wine bars offer a wide selection of wines from local wineries.
If you’re interested in trying the local wines at the source, the Ceptura wine region is located just a little more than 2 hours southeast of Brasov, where you can visit numerous wineries offering wine-tasting options.
Brasov Architecture
Brasov’s architecture is a captivating blend of medieval and baroque styles with a touch of Gothic charm. The city is adorned with impressive historical landmarks, such as the iconic Black Church, which stands proudly in the heart of Brasov’s old town. Its towering spires and intricate stone carvings tell a tale of a bygone era.
Wandering through the cobbled streets, you’ll come across colorful houses with ornate facades that will catch your eye. The Council Square, known as Piata Sfatului, is a bustling hub surrounded by beautiful Renaissance buildings that exude a sense of grandeur. The architecture in Brasov truly transports you back in time, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the city.
Where Is Brasov Located?
Brașov is in central Romania, approximately 110 miles north of Bucharest and 236 miles from the Black Sea. Surrounded by the Southern Carpathians, Brasov is located in the historic region of Transylvania.
Where Is the Best Place To Stay In Brasov?
Hotels in Brasov
If you are planning a trip to Brasov, there are plenty of excellent places to stay. However, for the best experience, we strongly recommend staying within the Old Town. The charm and ambiance of Brasov are at their best inside the Old Town, making it the perfect spot for a unique and memorable experience. The castle marker on the map below is the heart of the Old Town with the best restaurants nearby. We suggest staying as close to it as possible, depending on your budget and preferences.
The below interactive map provides hotel and apartment options that can be filtered to meet your needs. Select your travel dates to get specific availability and prices.
Book your stay now!
What Is The Best Time To Visit Brasov?
The best month to visit Brasov depends on what you’re looking for. Do you want the best weather, fewer crowds, or the best value? Following are our suggestions for each.
Weather
The best weather is a personal preference. We find the best weather for exploring a city is around 55° F and sunny. The weather in Brasov during the summer is moderate due to the elevation and surrounding hills.
Below is a chart showing each month’s average high and low temperatures so you can decide what is best for you.
Shoulder Season
The time of the year with good weather and fewer crowds is often called the shoulder season. The shoulder season in Brasov is late April thru May and September thru October. For many, this is the best time of the year to visit.
Brasov is a popular tourist destination but doesn’t get too overcrowded – even in the summer. Even so, you will find fewer crowds in the shoulder season.
We spent a month in Brasov in August. The weather was warm on some days but cool and sunny on most. In general, it is a relatively mild-weather destination.
Best Value
April, May, September, and October are good months to visit Brasov for the best value and no crowds. You should expect cool weather and pack accordingly.
FAQs About Brasov
Is Brasov, Romania Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Brasov, Romania is definitely worth visiting. It is a charming city located in the Transylvania region, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and beautiful natural surroundings. Whether you’re exploring the well-preserved medieval old town, visiting the iconic Black Church, or taking in the panoramic views from Mount Tampa, there is plenty to see and do in Brasov.
The city also serves as a great base for day trips to nearby attractions such as Bran Castle (commonly associated with Dracula), Peles Castle, and the picturesque Rasnov Fortress. Additionally, Brasov offers a variety of dining options showcasing traditional Romanian cuisine and a vibrant nightlife scene. If you want more information, we explored this question in depth in our article “Is Brasov Worth Visiting?”
Is Brasov Expensive?
Brasov, Romania is cheaper than more popular tourist destinations like Vienna, Austria, and nearby Budapest, Hungary. However, the cost ultimately depends on the level of luxury required. We prepared a Budget for a Month in Brasov that analyzes all the necessary expenses.
What is Brasov, Romania known for?
Brasov, Romania is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and natural beauty. Some of the key highlights of Brasov include:
1. Bran Castle: Also known as Dracula’s Castle, this iconic medieval fortress attracts visitors from around the world with its Gothic architecture and ties to Bram Stoker’s famous novel.
2. Black Church: The largest Gothic church in Romania, the Black Church is an impressive landmark in Brasov. It boasts a striking exterior and houses a valuable collection of religious artifacts.
3. Council Square (Piata Sfatului): This lively square is the heart of Brasov’s Old Town. It is surrounded by colorful historic buildings, cafes, restaurants, and shops, making it a popular gathering place for locals and tourists alike.
4. Mount Tampa: Rising above the city, Mount Tampa offers panoramic views of Brasov and the surrounding Carpathian Mountains. Visitors can reach the summit by hiking or taking a cable car ride.
Overall, Brasov has a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that captivates visitors from all over the world.
Is Brasov safe for tourists?
Brasov is generally considered a safe city for tourists. Like any city, it is always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded tourist areas. It is recommended to take common safety precautions such as keeping your belongings secure, avoiding dark or isolated areas at night, and being cautious of pickpockets. Overall, Brasov has a low crime rate and is a popular destination for tourists. However, it’s always advisable to stay informed about any current safety advisories or warnings issued by local authorities or your embassy before traveling.
Is Brasov Pretty?
Yes, Brasov is very pretty. It has a historic Old Town with walls and towers surrounded by large hills.
How Many Days in Brasov Is Enough?
You will need one day to walk around the Old Town and see its famous sites. If you have more time, a day trip to one or more of the nearby towns with a castle is well worth the time and effort. For a list of the best things to see and a suggested walking tour, check out our article “23 Best Things to See in Brasov.”
What Region Is Brasov In?
Brasov is located in the Transylvania region of Romania.
How to Get to Brasov?
To get to Brasov, there are several convenient options available. If you prefer flying, the nearest international airport is Brașov-Ghimbav International Airport. From there, you can take a 1-hour bus ride to the Old Town. If you need door-to-door service, then a taxi from the airport to the front door of your hotel is best. To arrange a taxi or private transfer, we recommend GetTransfer.
Another option is the Henri Coanda International Airport in Bucharest. From there, you can take a train to Brasov, which usually takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes.
If you’re already in Romania, you can also take advantage of the extensive train network. Brasov is well-connected to major cities like Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, and Sibiu, making it easily accessible by rail.
Other Things to Know About Brasov
Airport
The nearest airport to Brasov is the new Brașov-Ghimbav International Airport (GHV), which opened in June 2023. There are a couple of options to get from the airport to Brasov. The airport is 10 km from Brasov and takes about 15 minutes. A taxi should cost less than €10. The bus takes 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on your route, and costs about €1.
Although the Brașov-Ghimbav International Airport is the closest, there are many more options to fly into Bucharest, the capital of Romania.
If you’re traveling from Bucharest, the train to Brasov runs several times daily. Tickets cost from €5 to €17 depending on the seating class, and the journey takes about 2h 30m.
Time Zone
Eastern European Time (EET; UTC+02:00).
Currency
Language
Romanian is the official language of Romania. However, English is widely spoken in Brasov.
Visa
Citizens from the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia don’t need a visa to visit Romania if they stay 90 days or less. For more information on visa-free travel in Romania, check out our article on traveling visa-free.
Electricity
Romania’s electrical outlets are Type C and F. Travelers from the United States will need an adapter. It’s the same adapter used for the rest of Europe.
Romania operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.
We recommend a travel power strip with multiple USBs and standard plug-ins if you have many items to plug in. Using a power strip, you will only need one adapter to plug the strip into the wall.
SIM Card
Travelers will want a SIM card for Romania. You can get either a local SIM card or an eSIM card.
To get a local SIM card, you must find a local cellular service provider, often stand in line for assistance, show your passport, and complete some paperwork. The SIM cards work great, but purchasing them is somewhat inconvenient. This option is best if you need more than 5GB of data.
We use eSIMs exclusively because they can be purchased before arrival in a new country and activated when you hit a cell tower in the country. We use Airalo eSIMs. They work great, and I recommend them if you plan to use less than 5 GB of data during your stay or if you need internet immediately on arrival.
Car Rental
The train system in Romania makes rental cars unnecessary for most destinations. However, rental cars are needed to reach smaller towns and explore the countryside. In addition to the major car rental companies found in the United States, Sixt and Europcar are common throughout Europe. For a comparison of rental car offers from large international brands and smaller regional brands, we recommend Discover Cars.
Brasov Blog Posts
Budget for a Month in Brasov, Romania
The budget for a month in Brasov depends on the level of luxury required. We believe traveling full-time requires a moderate level of comfort. Most people (us included) could not stay in a hostel month after month and continue to travel...