Brasov, Romania is a charming city in the heart of the Carpathian Mountains. This city has history back to the Middle Ages and it draws visitors right in to the fairy tales and intrigue. It sits right in Transylvania making it the perfect base to visit the area. Many people quickly visit Brasov in a half day or so. But, Brasov has so many things to see and do, you can easily spend days delving into the depths. Read on for a few things to do while you visit Brasov, Romania: The Gateway to Transylvania!
Note: Two nights in Brasov (and two in Bucharest) can be added to select Lower Danube River Cruise itineraries.
Piata Sfatului
You can start your visit in the Council Square (Piata Sfatului). This square has seen its share of life and death throughout the last few thousand years. It has many stories to tell. Old Town Hall has a very interesting history museum. On a lighter note, legend links this square to the Pied Piper of Hamlin as the place the children reappeared. Other nearby places of interest are the Black Church and the Black and White Towers.
The square is a great place to get a bite to eat, or coffee at one of the open-air cafes. It’s is also a fun place to get a taste of Romanian life watching the vendors, shoppers, diners, children, visitors, and pigeons.
Free walking tours are available during the summer months in the early evening.
Tampa Mountain Cable Car
Brasov Old Town sits literally at the bottom of Tampa Mountain. You can take a Cable Car up the mountain for a beautiful view overlooking all of Brasov. For those wanting to expend a little energy, there are two hiking trails that will take you to the top in about an hour. At the top, you will find a lookout deck right by the BRASOV sign (think Hollywood sign).
Rasnov Fortress
Built in the 14th century by the Saxons, Rasnov Fortress towers 650 feet above the town of Rasnov, just a short distance from historic Brasov. This is one of the best-preserved landmarks in Romania. You will get to see the fortifications, stone houses built hundreds of years ago, an old school, and panoramic views of the surrounding town and countryside.
St. Catherine’s Gate
When the Saxons ruled the area Romanians were not allowed to own land, houses or live inside the city walls. Of the 5 gates into the city, this was the only one they could use so that they could be stopped to pay taxes.
Outside this gate you will find the Scheii Brasovului neighborhood. This is old Romanian and Bulgarian district. In this area you will find some interesting sites such as the Orthodox Church and the first Romanian school.
Bran Castle
No visit to Brasov, Romania and Transylvania would be complete without a visit to Bran Castle. It is around an hour from Brasov but it is definitely worth the trip. Bran Castle is said to be the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s novel Dracula. Whether or not Vlad the Impaler was the inspiration or just a coincidence, the history and legend surrounding this castle is fascinating.
Want to learn a little more about Bram Castle and the stories behind it? Read more here.
Brasov, Romania and Transylvania can be the perfect addition to your Lower Danube river cruise. For more information about pre- and post-cruise land extensions check out this post.
If you would like more information about river cruise itineraries that include Brasov, Romania and Transylvania please contact me.
Happy travels to you…until we meet again!
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