12 Unmissable Things To Do in Brasov for Every Traveler

Capture the true spirit of Transylvania with the best things to do in Brasov. Imagine wandering through medieval streets, spotting Carpathian brown bears in the wild, or conquering the legendary Seven Ladders Canyon. Discover it all and more in this expertly curated guide.

Choose from the diverse selection of tours in Brasov and fill your journey with history, adventure, and hidden wonders. For a smooth getaway, explore the largest marketplace for the best hotel deals in Brasov and find a stay that fits your style and budget.

Getting to Brasov is effortless, with easy train, car, and flight connections. So, what are you waiting for? Explore the widest variety of travel packages in Brasov, read this ultimate guide that we have crafted just for you, and start planning your dream vacation.

Let's get started! Dive deep into the city’s past and follow the echoes of this Transylvanian gem!

12. Savor Specialty Coffee in Brasov

If you love a good cup of coffee, a Brasov coffee and legends tour is the perfect way to explore the city. Imagine wandering through medieval streets, hearing fascinating stories, and sipping a coffee along the way.

Brasov’s specialty cafes focus on high-quality beans and expert roasting techniques to create rich, flavorful coffee. Every sip, from a silky latte to a rich, full-bodied espresso, carries a story of craftsmanship and tradition. 

Enjoy your coffee in Brasov’s Old Town, surrounded by colorful facades and lively squares. Sit back, sip, and soak in the charm of this Transylvanian gem.

11. Spot Brown Bears in the Carpathian Mountains

Join a thrilling bear-watching tour from Brasov for a chance to see these mighty animals in their natural habitat. Expert guides lead you deep into the forest, where you can safely observe bears from a secure viewing hide.

Brasov is one of the best places in Europe to observe brown bears, as the Carpathian Mountains host more than half of the continent's brown bear population. With some luck, you may also spot wild boar, deer, or even a lynx.

Those who want to learn more about Romania’s bears beyond the wild can take a trip from Brasov to the Libearty Bear Sanctuary in Zarnesti. The sanctuary cares for over 100 rescued bears, providing them with a safe, natural habitat.

10. Take Day Trips From Brasov to Romania’s Best Landmarks

Day trips and excursions from Brasov offer an excellent way to explore Romania’s rich history and stunning landscapes. With several destinations just a short drive away, you can easily experience the region’s cultural treasures.

A small group tour of Viscri Church, Sighisoara, and Rupea Fortress is one of the best things to do in Brasov for history lovers. Viscri Church, a UNESCO-listed fortress, was built to protect Saxon villagers and features Gothic elements. 

Nearby, Sighisoara, the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, captivates visitors with its cobblestone streets and ties to the Dracula legend. Finally, Rupea Fortress offers panoramic views and insights into Transylvania’s defense history.

Alternatively, take a day trip to Peles Castle, Bran Castle, Rasnov Fortress, and Sinaia Monastery from Brasov. Peles Castle, set in the Carpathian Mountains, is a masterpiece of Neo-Renaissance architecture. Then there’s Bran Castle, the legendary fortress often linked to Dracula. 

Not far away, Rasnov Fortress sits high on a rocky hill, offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into medieval life. For a peaceful stop, visit Sinaia Monastery, a beautiful 17th-century treasure with quiet courtyards and colorful frescoes.

9. Hike Through Brasov’s Piatra Craiului National Park

A private hiking tour in Piatra Craiului National Park takes you into Romania’s wildest landscapes. Towering limestone peaks, dense forests, and wildflower-filled meadows define this breathtaking national park.

Trails wind through the Zarnesti Gorges, pass between towering cliffs, and lead to ridgelines with sweeping mountain views. Beyond the trails, the villages of Magura and Pestera showcase Transylvania’s traditional rural life. Wooden houses dot the hills as shepherds tend to their flocks.

Exploring Piatra Craiului National Park is one of the best things to do in Brasov for nature lovers looking for a dramatic landscape and immersive outdoor activity. No matter the trail, every hike offers a unique glimpse into the park's rich biodiversity and stunning scenery.

8. Trek to Brasov’s Epic 7 Ladders Canyon

Nothing beats the thrill of climbing through the Seven Ladders Canyon on a day trip from Brasov. This natural playground features waterfalls and vertical rock walls. The climb takes you straight into the heart of the gorge, where water rushes beneath your feet and mist fills the air.

This trek is one of the best things to do in Brasov for those who love a challenge. The trail starts in a quiet forest before reaching sheer cliffs and cascading waterfalls. The route includes suspended walkways and ladders fixed to rock walls.

A zip-line course nearby adds another way to experience the canyon, soaring high above the treetops. With dramatic rock formations, roaring waterfalls, and heart-pounding climbs, this spot delivers a serious dose of adventure for thrill-seekers in Transylvania.

7. Go Horseback Riding in Brasov’s Countryside

Exploring Brasov’s countryside on a horseback riding tour is one of the best things to do in Brasov for nature lovers. Ride through rolling hills, dense forests, and open meadows for a peaceful countryside escape.

Trails vary from open sunlit fields to shaded forest paths, offering diverse scenery along the way. Wildflowers stretch for miles, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot deer or foxes darting through the landscape. 

Being in sync with a horse, feeling the wind on your face, and soaking in the scenery turns an ordinary day into something unforgettable. Few activities match the mix of adventure, nature, and joy that horseback riding offers in Brasov’s stunning countryside.

6. See Weavers Bastion in Brasov

Visit Weavers’ Bastion on a seven-day Romania road trip and take in one of Brasov’s best-preserved medieval fortresses. Built in the 15th century by the weavers' guild, this bastion played a key role in the city’s defense.

Inside, a detailed 1896 model of Brasov showcases the city’s former fortified layout. Walking through the bastion feels like stepping into a time machine, with ancient artifacts and exhibits revealing the secrets of medieval Transylvania.

From the top, enjoy panoramic views of the city’s rooftops and the Carpathian Mountains. The combination of history and stunning scenery makes this fortress an unforgettable stop and one of the top things to do in Brasov.

5. Explore the Historic Schei District of Brasov

Explore the Schei District on a relaxed 10-day Romania road trip and enter a world of old traditions. Once home to Romanians and Bulgarians during Saxon rule, this district features distinct architecture and cultural influences. Narrow streets, wooden gates, and colorful houses give it a unique charm.

St. Nicholas Church, an important Orthodox landmark in Transylvania, is at the heart of the district. Constructed between 1495 and 1519, this stone church showcases a blend of Gothic and Baroque architectural styles. Nearby, the First Romanian School displays ancient books and Romania’s first printing press.

Every spring, the Junii Brasovului Festival creates a lively atmosphere with horsemen dressed in traditional costumes parading through the streets. The mix of history, culture, and vibrant celebrations makes visiting the district one of the top things to do in Brasov for those looking beyond the usual sights.

4. Stroll Through Brasov’s Old Town

Experience a guided tour of Brasov's Old Town and immerse yourself in the medieval charm and lively streets. Walk by brightly colored buildings, explore narrow alleys, and enjoy the bustling squares around you!

You'll find yourself in Council Square, also called Piata Sfatului, surrounded by old structures, inviting cafes, and a vibrant atmosphere. Just a short walk away, the Black Church, locally known as Biserica Neagra, stands as a striking Gothic landmark with centuries of history.

Climb the Black and White Towers for panoramic city views, or navigate Strada Sforii, one of Europe’s narrowest streets. Want the best locations for taking pictures? Join a walking tour of Brasov Old Town’s photo hotspots and take a shot at the breathtaking sites of the city.

Wandering through these old avenues is a must-do in Brasov. You'll find something unique at every turn, from ancient walls to charming little alleys.

3. Experience the Carpathian Mountains

Hike through the Carpathian Mountains and explore one of Europe’s last great wildernesses. Towering peaks, dense forests, and winding paths make this mountain range a dream for nature lovers. Just outside Brasov, you'll find trails catering to various skill levels, from easy strolls to challenging climbs.

Piatra Craiului National Park is a must-see, with its striking limestone ridges and diverse wildlife. One of the best trails to explore is Zarnesti Gorge, where narrow canyons lead to stunning viewpoints. Challenge yourself on a Carpathian peaks and chalets hike to reach breathtaking summits.

Exploring the Carpathian Mountains is one of the top things to do in Brasov for adventure seekers. With fresh mountain air, rugged landscapes, and opportunities for wildlife sightings, the area offers a rewarding outdoor experience.

2. Step Inside the Black Church (Biserica Neagra) in Brasov

Heritage tours in Brasov are incomplete without visiting the legendary Black Church. Its darkened walls, a result of the Great Fire of 1689, make it one of the city’s most distinctive landmarks.

Built between 1385 and 1477, the Black Church is the largest Gothic church in Romania. Inside, you'll find houses a rare collection of Anatolian carpets, which are gifts from merchants traveling through Brasov.

The 4,000-pipe organ, one of the largest in Eastern Europe, still fills the space with powerful music during special performances. Vaulted ceilings, stained-glass windows, and medieval stonework showcase the church’s Gothic elegance.

Stepping inside this masterpiece is one of the unmissable things to do in Brasov. Even if you're interested in exploring its Gothic details or attending an organ concert, the Black Church stands as a testament to the city’s medieval heritage.

1. Unwind at Brasov’s Council Square (Piata Sfatului)

City tours in Brasov offer the best way to experience Council Square, also known as Piata Sfatului. History, culture, and daily life all come together in this lively square. The Council House, located at the center, has served as a historic landmark for centuries.

Nearby, the Black Church’s Gothic architecture stands in striking contrast to the square’s colorful facades. The surrounding area is buzzing with activity: street musicians perform, artists set up their easels, and locals gather at cafes, filling the square with energy.

To fully appreciate the city's essence, take a moment to soak Council Square. Grab a coffee, find a comfortable spot, and watch the city move around you. This is Brasov at its best.