Is Brasov one of the most beautiful cities in the world? With its vast history and delightful, vibrant tourist attractions in the area, I’m inclined to say it’s true. There are many ways to discover its treasure, so here are some of them:
1.Explore the city
The best way to discover Brasov is to walk on its narrow old streets, to admire the architecture, to fall in love with the antique stores, or to feed the pigeons in the Council Square. You can start from The Old City and slowly make your way to the picturesque Schei district, or you can hop on the city bus and see where it takes you.
If you are an adventure junkie, you should try Geocaching: it’s an international treasure hunt that will test your wits and endurance. Brasov is also part of the game, and the items you will have to find will teach you its history.
2. Visit, visit, visit
Now that you have a general idea about the city’s layout, it’s time to check out the main tourist attractions in Brasov. Most of them are in The Old City, so get ready for a marathon! I’ve listed my favorites below:
✅ Dupa ziduri is a stone alley situated behind the old city wall, hence its name. You can enjoy a quiet walk here, away from the city hubbub, and admire the graffiti art. Moreover, you can visit the underground tunnels that crossed the city back in the days. And if you take a look on your left, you’ll see…
✅ The Black and White Towers date back from the 15th century. The climbing might be a little tricky, but the view over the city is worth the effort! From there, you can admire the Tampa mountain, the Old City, and the newer buildings that stretch as far as the eye can see.
✅ The Brasov Citadel has been guarding over the city for more than four centuries. Again, the route to it is a bit steep, so make sure to have a water bottle with you and proper shoes. Once you get there, the entire city stretches beneath your feet. I suggest you visit this tourist attraction at dusk; this way, you will not suffer from the heat, and you will get to see a beautiful sunset over Brasov.
✅ The Black Church is a notorious gothic edifice with a complicated history. You can visit it according to a schedule, find out its mysteries from the tour guide and you can also listen to the organ concert. It’s one of the best experiences I had in Brasov, so I wholeheartedly recommend it.
✅ The Noua district houses a beautiful lake, perfect for a leisure walk, a barbecue, or badminton. While you’re there, you can also visit The Brasov Zoo, or the Adventure Park, an experience packed with adrenaline.
✅ The museums are practically everywhere in The Old City, such as the memorial houses of many cultural personalities and the first Romanian school.
✅ The Rope Street & The Rope Museum. This one’s not for the claustrophobics! Rope Street is the narrowest street in Brasov and the third one in Europe. Be sure to visit the thematic museum to get a taste of the medieval Brasov life and to buy tasty bio refreshments.
3. Enjoy the cuisine
After a tour de force in the old city, you should take a break and eat something. From fast-food to traditional, vegan, or – if you’re feeling fancy – gourmet food, Brasov has it all! Most restaurants have their menus posted outside, so you can browse the offer freely and pick the one you like most.
My favorite places to grab a bite in the old city are Simone, Trattorian Artisan Food, Brasserie, and Mado Cafe. Every place is special to me because I took my visiting friends there or made new ones while savoring the food.
For my fellow sweets lovers, you should definitely go to Coffeöl: they serve the most incredible desserts and hot beverages that will lift your mood instantly. You can end the day with a piano concert and a glass of wine at L’etagè. Or, if you like good music and strong drinks, head to Fifi, a small bar with a big personality. Tip: nothing’s better for sobering up than a sandwich from Ando’s in the middle of the night. It’s the perfect balm to the soul (`îți merge la inimă`), as we Romanians like to say.
4. Go for a hike/skiing
If you are the sportive type, there are many trails you can pursue in and around Brasov.
✅ The Tampa mountain is the most convenient spot for hiking because it offers a beautiful view of the city below. If you run out of energy, you can descend via the Cable Car and catch your breath.
✅ Another spot perfect for hiking is Solomon’s Stones (Pietrele lui Solomon). Make sure you have the proper equipment, water, flashlight, and enough phone battery. It’s better to go with a friend and return to the city before nightfall, lest you encounter a bear.
✅ The 7 Stairs Canyon (Canionul 7 Scari) is a natural attraction that few people know about, so be sure to check it out too!
✅ As for skiing, Brasov turns into the most popular touristic attractions in Romania during the winter months. You can go to Poiana Brasov straight from the City Center by bus and have the time of your life. The hotels and restaurants are always open for eager tourists!
5. Enjoy the cultural life
There are many cultural events in Brasov: from the Dracula Film Festival, the Brasov Jazz & Blues Festival, to the Book and Music Fest, there’s a spot for every enthusiast.
Even if you don’t happen to be there during a major event, you can always enjoy a play at the Sica Alexandrescu Theatre, at the Reduta Theatre, or at The Brasov Opera House.
6. Go to a concert
Music is a healing and empowering force. There are many musical events in Brasov, such as October Fest, the jazz festival, Cerbul de Aur, or large concerts held in the Council Square.
Moreover, you can meet many local and international artists that come to play in Kruhnen Musik Halle. This concert arena attracts thousands of fans every time. Right next door, there’s Rockstadt, which is mainly reserved for rock events. Although I haven’t been there in a long time, it will forever be one of my favorite spots in Brasov.
From natural wonders to museums and tasty experiences, Brasov has enough tourist attractions to appease every visitor.
