Top Things To Do In Brasov, Attractions & Outdoor Fun

There are plenty of things to do in Brasov, Romania, including guided sightseeing tours of the old town. There are also options for outdoor activities, especially in the mountains. I live in Brasov, and the city keeps me interested year-round.

The city is in the Carpathian Mountains, thus making it a haven for those who enjoy the great outdoors. It is a gorgeous place with a rich and diverse history. You can see this in its architecture.

Things To Do In Brasov

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My suggestions for things to do when visiting Brasov in Romania. There are also many local places to do a day trip. Some are available for organised tours; others require a journey by public transport or a road trip.

Sightseeing in Old Town

Brasov is a vibrant place with cafes and restaurants on the streets of Old Town, most with outside seating. Piaţa Sfatului (Council Square) in the cobbled old town has many colourful baroque buildings. The square is home to the Casa Sfatului, a former town hall that is now the local history museum.

The Square has a fountain; nearby are the Black Church and Tampa Mountain, with its iconic Hollywood-style sign. A medieval wall with towers and gates surrounds the Old Town. Walking along the city’s fortifications is a great way to learn about the city’s history while burning some calories.

Visit The Black Church

One of the most popular sights in the old town is the Black Church. The Black Church is a prominent feature of the city’s skyline, visible from the city walls and from Mt. Tampa. The church is very pleasing to the eye and built in a Gothic style.

It is located just off the main town square and is very photogenic, especially when contrasted with the red-tiled roofs of most old-town buildings. Also known as Biserica Neagră, the Black Church was built by the German community in the 14th century. For a small fee, you can visit the inside and see a variety of artefacts.

Walks in the Beautiful Countryside

One of my favourite activities is to head into the mountains for a walk. The local area surrounding the city is a dream for those who like to hike. Brasov has a variety of hiking routes to suit walkers of all abilities. One of the easier walks locally is the historic city walls of the old town, where you can marvel at the city’s history. There are many mountains in the local area, with plenty of walks to enjoy.

One of my favourites is the climb of Postavaral Massif, where the views are fantastic in all seasons. Tampa Mountain is also well worth a climb to view the city from above. For those not into hiking, a cable car can take you to the top for some amazing views.

Explore the Medieval City Walls

Exploring the medieval walls surrounding the old town is a fun way to spend time. These make a fantastic walk where you can see many of the city’s sights. You can see towers, bastions and gates. The two most popular towers are the Black Tower and the White Tower, both of which overlook the city.

The medieval city walls are pretty well preserved on the east and west sides of the city. Sadly, the north and south walls were demolished during the city’s growth. The construction of the walls began under the supervision of the city’s Hungarian ruler in 1395.

Șchei Gate

Another thing to see when visiting the city is the Șchei Gate. Șchei Gate is a classical gate that was built in 1828. This is built from stone and brick in the style of a triumphal arch. Șchei Gate has 3 archways: one for transport and two for pedestrians.

Catherine’s Gate

Catherine’s Gate was built in 1559 as part of the city’s defence. It was named after St Catherine’s Monastery, which used to be located on this site. During Saxon rule, Romanians could not live within the city walls, and this was the only entrance they could use to the town centre. The gate looks like something out of a fairytale with its four corner turrets.

Council Square

There are many options to eat out in the beautiful Council Square; most have outdoor seating. The square has a fantastic vibe and is a great place to enjoy a few beers or a meal. Most of the eateries in Council Square are very good value meals at great prices. Many local eateries serve traditional Romanian food; however, others serve dishes with an international origin.

Food and drink in the city are cheaper than in Western Europe. At the table, service is the default in Romania.

Ride The Tampa Cable Car

One activity with the best views is to ride the Mount Tampa cable car. This is a must-experience for anyone visiting. The views of the city from above are fantastic. Once at the top, you can have a wander to the many viewpoints and admire the local mountains.

It is also nice to take photographs of the city from above on the nearby mountain viewpoints. At the top of Mt Tampa is a platform for visitors to take photographs on.

This overlooks the city or nearby mountain valley, depending on the angle you choose. This is a very photogenic spot to visit. The platform is great for selfies with the red-roofed town below or even a group shot.

Tales of Communism Museum

One of the most engaging museums that I enjoyed in Brasov is the Tales of Communism Museum. The museum tells the story of the communist era in Romania. The museum has lots of exhibits about how people were forced to live by the Romanian Communist Party. You can touch and use many of the exhibits inside.

You get to learn about the struggles, especially of the 80s, when everything ran out. Certainly lessons should be learnt about government overreach and control. As a bonus, there is a cafe that includes some era-appropriate meals, like coffee with no coffee.

Rope Street

Rope Street, or Strada Sforii, is one of the narrowest streets in Europe. It is a popular place for photographers and selfie-takers. It is great fun to explore and can be spooky after dark. Rope Street, or Strada Sforii, was an access passage for firefighters from Poarta Schei to Cerbuli Street. Documents originally mentioned Rope Street in the 17th century. The street is 80 metres long and 1.11 metres at its narrowest.

Beth Israel Synagogue

Beth Israel Synagogue, on Poarta Street, has a distinctive red-and-white facade and some interesting decorative features. The synagogue’s stained-glass windows feature two coats of arms representing 32 Israeli settlements. The synagogue was constructed in a three-nave neo-Gothic style, also with Moorish elements.

It is open Monday to Friday and has a kosher restaurant inside. The Jewish community in Brasov dates back to the 15th century. After the Second World War, many Jews left after the creation of the state of Israel. The original synagogue dates from 1901; however, it was damaged during the Second World War and later renovated at the turn of the century.

Architecture In The City

An enjoyable way to spend time is to see the various types of architecture in the city centre. There are many other impressive buildings in the city of varying architectural types. This includes government buildings and a military base for 2nd Brigade Mountain Troops. The principal streets in the city are special. However, there are many side streets with colourful buildings throughout. These are well worth a wander through.

Theatres

The city has a few options for theatre lovers to visit, the main one being Teatrul Sică Alexandrescu. Teatrul Sică Alexandrescu opened in 1946 as a municipal theatre. Here you can see Romanian theatrical performances, comedy, opera and also live music.

Museum of Urban Civilisation of Brasov

The Museum of Urban Civilisation is in the main town square and an interesting place to visit. The building that houses the museum has a fascinating history, dating back to the times of Saxon merchants in the city. It has many permanent and temporary exhibitions for people to peruse. Permanent exhibitions relate to the building’s architecture and its former owners.

The Saxon merchants feature heavily, showing what was traded in and how life was. The museum dedicates another floor to 19th-century photography of the area. I really enjoyed visiting the museum and found the historic clothing and cookery exhibits fascinating. Another impressive feature was the region’s decorative furniture.

Brasov Zoo

In the Noua district of the city, set in a forest setting, is Brasov Zoo. This is also a pleasant area for hiking. The zoo is home to over 380 animals and 110 species for the public to see, learn more and support conservation.

Species include both local species and some more exotic species. The zoo has some big cats, including the jaguar, a white lion, and the snow leopard. Other species you can expect to see include bears, the cute red pandas and a variety of snakes.

Biserica Sfânta Adormire a Maicii Domnului

There are lots of interesting churches in the old town area and beyond. Some are tourist attractions in their own right, and others are active; however, you can still visit.

In the main town square is the Biserica Sfânta Adormire a Maicii Domnului. This is a Romanian Orthodox Church which was built in the Neo-Byzantine style in 1829. Interestingly, the spire collapsed during an earthquake in 1940 and was subsequently restored in 1973.

The interior of the church is beautiful and well worth popping inside. To enter, go through the decorative door into the courtyard. The courtyard has some splendid artwork. However, the chief attraction inside is the golden altar.

Piața Unirii

Just outside of the old town is the beautiful Piaţa Unirii, a lovely town square. Piața Unirii is a lovely place for sightseeing, including the first Romanian school and Biserica Sfântul Nicolae. Both are interesting attractions to visit; however, the church is particularly striking. Also at Piața Unirii are some lovely cafes and restaurants to dine out. From here, you can also grab a bus into the stunning countryside near Solomon’s Rocks.

County History Museum

A fascinating thing to do in the main town square is to visit the County History Museum. It is housed in the Council House, a stunning building to see that is the centrepiece of Piața Sfatului.

The museum tells the story of the entire county, and it is fascinating to learn more. This includes the locals’ trades throughout history and the city’s significance in trade. There are also interesting exhibits on communism and the local army regiment.

Parcul Nicolae Titulescu

A lovely place to relax in the city is to visit Parcul Nicolae Titulescu. This is an extensive park in the city, and it is beautiful in spring and summer when flowers are in full bloom. The park is surrounded by beautiful buildings and is well worth a walk around the edges.

There are many pleasant views from here, including towards the citadel on the hill. While walking in the park, you can see some nice monuments and a fountain.

Aquatic Paradise

Aquatic Paradise is a swimming pool and leisure centre in the city’s suburbs. It is great fun and also a good place to do nothing and wind down. It has multiple indoor and outdoor pools, including a hot pool. The hot pool is fantastic, especially outdoors in the evening or winter, where you can enjoy views of the mountains.

There are also water slides, which are great fun for children and older kids who like an adrenaline rush. For relaxation, Aquatic Paradise also has a sauna where you can sweat out your aches.

Muzeul Sporturilor

A fantastic building to see is the Muzeul Sporturilor. The sports museum is also interesting, with exhibits that showcase the history of sport and mountain tourism in the country. There is also an outdoor ice rink outside the museum during the colder months.

Barbecue or Picnic in The Mountains

Just outside Brasov are some fantastic picnic sites in the mountainous countryside. You can reach them by bus or a cheap taxi ride. Lake Noua has a large picnic area with barbecues and other nearby activities.

My favourite place for a picnic or barbecue is at Solomon’s Rocks. The area is quite remote; however, it is still easy to reach. It’s a fantastic place to hike after enjoying some outdoor dining.

Brasov Citadel

A pleasant thing to do in Brasov is to go on a sunset walk to the citadel. Brasov Citadel is a nice historic building to walk around. Citadel Hill overlooks the city and has superb views of the mountains. There are many places to sit and enjoy the views. These views are especially beautiful in the late evening sun.

The site is historic and dates from the 14th century. The current structure dates from the 17th century after a fire destroyed the older fortress. Since then, the site has been a prison, a hospital, and now an events venue, and it’s also great for walking around. Recently, the citadel opened to visitors, and it’s great to explore inside and learn about its history.

Events in The City

During my time in Brasov, I’ve come across various cool, free events in the city. Most of these are on weekends or major holidays, and more often than not, in Council Square, AKA Piața Sfatului.

I’ve enjoyed many live music events performed on a stage in Piața Sfatului. This includes many over the summer months and is quite vibrant. In Brasov, I’ve also visited Oktoberfest, a car show, and a pleasant food truck festival. You can find out what’s on in Brasov on the All Events website.

Enjoy The City Nightlife

Brasov is a good place to enjoy a night out and enjoy the city’s nightlife. There are various cool bars to enjoy a night out, and some, including Deane’s, have live music. If lucky, there are often fun events happening on the stage in Council Square in the evenings. The city also has late-night bars and nightclubs.

If you enjoy craft beers, you can take part in some beer tasting. In the old town, near the main square, is Berăria Mustață, a local brewery taproom. Here you can try all seven of their brews.

Enjoy Some Local Food

There are many traditional restaurants in Brasov, including near the main attractions. You can find places serving traditional local food at various price points, including budget options. Standout dishes include mici, sarmale, and various soups.

Brasov Museum of Art

If you enjoy art galleries, visit the art museum. Muzeul de Artă Brașov is housed in a beautiful, recently restored building near the old town. The art museum’s decor is fantastic, with some wonderful details.

Inside, the key exhibition includes paintings and sculptures from 18th- and 19th-century Transylvanian art. The museum also has art from modern Romania in the 19th and 20th centuries. During our visit, there was some modern art on the ground floor, which didn’t interest me. However, the permanent exhibitions were great. You can find out about visiting the museum on their website, including prices and opening hours.

Excursions

Brașov is a great base camp for exploring some of Transylvania’s most popular attractions. You can reach them in many ways, including public transport or organised tours. The most popular places to visit just outside of the city are Bran Castle, Peles Castle, and the Libearty Bear Sanctuary.

The castles are both easy to reach by public transport: Bran by bus and Peles Castle by train. Bran Castle is a historic site with many fun features related to Vlad the Impaler and Dracula. Peles Castle is a beautiful place in the mountains, with stunning architecture and interior decor.

The bear sanctuary is a pain to reach, so I recommend a guided tour or a private driver. You can see many of the rescued bears that call the sanctuary home and learn their stories, some tragic and others amusing.