The Ultimate Brasov Travel Guide: Getting There & Getting Around (2024) – A True Romanian’s Perspective

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Growing up just a few hours away in Targu Mures, Brasov (you can read the name as “brashov”) has always held a special place in my heart! I’ve explored every corner of this magical city countless times – from showing off its majestic castles to international friends to making annual pilgrimages to the enchanting Christmas market that transforms the city center into a winter wonderland.

Did you know that Brasov’s central train station welcomes over 1 million travelers each year, making it one of Romania’s busiest transport hubs? As someone who’s navigated every possible route to and through this enchanting medieval city, I can tell you – getting to Brasov is half the adventure! Nestled in the heart of Transylvania, surrounded by the majestic Carpathian Mountains, Brasov is a city that captivates visitors with its Gothic spires and cobblestone streets.

You know what makes Brasov truly special? It’s those moments when you’re wandering down Europe’s narrowest street, or looking up at the Hollywood-style “BRASOV” sign perched on Tampa Mountain, that you realize this city effortlessly blends its medieval charm with a touch of modern magic. Trust me – there’s nothing quite like standing in the historic center, gazing up at the Black Church while the mountain backdrop takes your breath away! But first, you need to know how to get there!

Let me guide you through my country’s transport scene with all the insider knowledge I’ve gathered over years. Whether you’re planning to drive (my personal recommendation for exploring Romania), catch a train, or brave our local bus system, I’ll share every trick I’ve learned to help you navigate Brasov like a true local!

Getting to Brasov: All Transportation Options (A Local’s Guide)

Having made countless trips to Brasov, I’ve tried every possible way to get there. Let me break down all your options, complete with the kind of insider tips you’d get from a Romanian friend!

Driving to Brasov (My Top Recommendation!)

As a local, I can tell you with confidence – having your own car is the best way to explore not just Brasov, but all of Romania. It is a lot faster to get from Bucharest to Brasov by car, as long as you avoid the days before Christmas and the first part of the month of August. These are the periods that the (only) road that connects Bucharest to Brasov gets really, really busy. This is actually the only way to pass the mountains to reach Transylvania, so get that into account too.

It should normally take about 2.5 to 3 hours to pass the mountains. Start early morning to avoid any traffic, especially during weekends. It is better to have the winding mountain roads near Predeal clear, as there are multiple stops along the way – don’t miss the view point after Sinaia!

Since we are talking about stops, there are 3 must stops that you should do if you have the time and a rental car (as this is the only way that you would be able to make all these stops on the same ride).

1. Sinaia (a mountain resort that used to be famous during the Communism time. It’s a great place to see some interesting buildings and enjoy the snow during winter. You can sky during the cold season or hike during the summer.)
2. Peles Castle (the last royal residency in Romania and the best castle we have, in my opinion)
3. Cantacuzino Castle (Wednesday’s Nevermore Academy in the famous Netflix series)

Once arrived in Brasov, if your accommodation doesn’t include parking, look for the large parking area near the Parcul Central for easy access to the historic center.

Warning: Avoid parking on small streets in the center unless you’re absolutely sure it’s allowed (trust me on this one!)

Flying & Airport Transfers

There are multiple ways to get to Brasov. The best two airports close to Brasov, in Romania, are the Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP), that is your main gateway, and Sibiu International Airport which is actually closer but has fewer flights.

From Bucharest airport, you have several options:

• Airport transfer services (book in advance, around 60-80 euros)
• Regular shuttle buses (cheaper but less frequent and harder to understand given the fact that there are not many companies that have online reservations options)
• A great option : If you’re a group of 3-4, splitting a private transfer can be almost as economical as public transport!

Train Travel (The Scenic Route)

I’ve taken this train journey countless times, and the mountain views still amaze me!

Direct trains run regularly from Bucharest North Station and the journey time usually takes 2.5-4 hours.

The ticket price is around 35-80 RON (12-16 euros) for a second class ticket on one way. Book first class for just a few extra euros – the comfort difference is worth it! You can find all the timetables and buy your ticket here, on the official webiste.

My personal time-saving hack would be to Download the CFR Calatori app for easy booking, but always screenshot your ticket – trust me, phone signal can be spotty in the mountains!

Bus Services

While I personally recommend train or car, buses are an option. There are several companies that operate the Bucharest-Brasov route, the main ones being Memento Bus and FlixBus. The journey takes 3 to 4 hours too, but it can easily take longer, depending heavily on traffic.

It is important to keep in mind that schedules can be a bit unpredictable, especially during winter. Most of the stops are not indicated and you need to ask the driver to stop where you want (I would not recommend stoping somewhere in between like Sinaia or Cantacuzino). In my opinion, the buses are best for shorter trips to nearby towns, not necessarily for the journey from Bucharest.

Private Shuttle Services

Perfect if you want convenience without driving. These are really affordable in Romania, with several reliable companies operating daily shuttles.

Costs range from 25-35 euros per person for a door-to-door service, but advance booking is essential. Often the accomoddation you book can recommend services as they have partnerships with reliable drivers.

Navigating Brasov’s Public Transportation (The Real Local Scoop!)

Let me be honest with you – as someone who’s helped many international friends navigate Brasov’s public transport, I know it can be a bit tricky for tourists! But don’t worry, I’m here to guide you through the system that locals use every day.

Understanding Brasov’s Bus System

Look, I’ll level with you – our bus system isn’t as intuitive as in Western Europe, but with a few insider tips, you’ll manage just fine!

• Main bus operator: RAT Brasov (Regia Autonomă de Transport)
• Most useful tourist lines:
• Bus 20: Goes to Poiana Brasov (ski resort)
• Bus 4: Connects the train station to the historic center
• Bus 50: Circles the main tourist areas

Pro tip: Download “Moovit” app – it’s what locals use and works way better than Google Maps for Brasov’s buses!

Tickets and Payment (The Important Stuff!)

Single ride tickets cost about 4 RON (less than 1 euro) and you can purchase them at :

• Ticket machines at major stops (they have an English option!)
• Local shops marked with “Bilete RAT” signs
• SMS tickets (but I don’t recommend this for tourists – it’s complicated)

My local hack: Get a daily pass (12 RON) or a 3 day pass (30 RON) if you’re planning multiple trips – it’ll save you money and hassle.

Operating Hours & Frequency

From years of experience, here’s what to expect:

• Most buses run from 5:00 AM to 11:00 PM
• Peak hours (roughly):
  • Morning: 7:00-9:00 AM
  • Evening: 4:00-6:00 PM
• Weekend schedule is different (less frequent)

Important note: Last buses to Poiana Brasov leave earlier – check the schedule if you’re up there for dinner!

Popular Tourist Routes Made Easy

These are the routes I always recommend to my visiting friends:

Train Station → City Center (Old Town):

• Take the Bus line 20 (runs every 15-20 minutes)
• Journey time: about 10-15 minutes
• Look for the “Piața Sfatului” stop

City Center → Poiana Brasov:

• Take the Bus line 20 (winter schedule is more frequent)
• Journey time: 30 minutes
• My tip: Sit on the right side for the best mountain views!

Money-Saving Tips (From a Local!)

• Buy a daily pass if you’ll make more than 2 trips
• Group tickets available (cheaper for families)
• Consider walking in the historic center – it’s often faster than waiting for buses!
• If you’re staying for a few days, get a weekly pass – it’s much cheaper than daily tickets

Important Things to Remember:

• Always validate your ticket when boarding (those random checks are real!)
• Keep small change handy – sometimes the machines don’t accept large bills
• During peak tourist season (Christmas market, ski season), expect more crowded buses
• Weather can affect bus frequency, especially on the Poiana Brasov route

Getting Around Brasov’s Historic Center (My Favorite Walks & Hidden Gems!)

You know what makes my heart skip a beat every time? Walking through Brasov’s historic center on a crisp morning, coffee in hand, watching the city wake up beneath Tampa Mountain. Having shown countless friends around these medieval streets, I’ve got some special routes that never fail to make them fall in love with my beloved city!

Walking the Historic Center (Trust Me, It’s the Best Way!)

Let me start with my absolute favorite walking route! Begin at the iconic Council Square (Piața Sfatului) – you can’t miss it with the stunning Old Town Hall right in the center. This is where the magic of Brasov really comes alive, especially during the Christmas Market when the whole square transforms into a winter wonderland! From here, I always take my friends to see the Black Church – it’s impossible not to be impressed by this Gothic masterpiece that’s survived since medieval times.

Here’s a fun fact that always amazes my visitors – we actually have Europe’s narrowest street right here in Brasov! It’s called Strada Sforii (String Street), and it’s so narrow you can touch both walls at once. I love watching my friends try to squeeze through while taking photos! It’s tucked away between Strada Poarta Schei and Strada Cerbului – a bit tricky to find, but that’s part of the adventure!

The Hollywood Moment

One of my favorite spots to take friends is the Tampa Mountain viewpoint – you can get there either by hiking (about 30-40 minutes) or taking the cable car. The view of the city is breathtaking, and you’ll get the perfect shot of the famous “BRASOV” sign on the mountain (our very own Hollywood moment!). Pro tip: go either early morning for the best light or at sunset for a magical city view!

Pedestrian Zones & Hidden Passages The main pedestrian zone runs along Strada Republicii, and it’s absolutely gorgeous with its restored baroque buildings. But here’s my local secret – don’t just stick to the main street! The real charm of Brasov lies in its network of smaller streets and passages. Take Strada Mureșenilor or Strada Michael Weiss – they’re less crowded and have some of the best-preserved medieval architecture.

Safety & Evening Strolls

One thing I love about Brasov is how safe it feels, even at night. The historic center is well-lit and usually busy with locals and tourists until late, especially in summer. Still, I always tell my friends to keep to the main lit streets after dark – not because it’s dangerous, but simply because the smaller streets can be tricky to navigate in low light.

Accessibility Notes

While most of the main areas are flat and well-maintained, some of the older streets still have their original cobblestones (charming but challenging!). If you’re using a wheelchair or have mobility concerns, stick to the newer pavement along Strada Republicii and around the Council Square. The area around the Black Church is also well-maintained and easily accessible.

Local Tips for the Best Experience

• Morning walks are magical – grab a coffee from one of the local cafes and watch the city come to life
• The best photo spots are early morning or during “golden hour” before sunset
• During the Christmas Market (my favorite time!), the center gets busy – come early to avoid crowds
• Keep an eye out for the many passage-ways between buildings – they often lead to hidden courtyards
• Wear comfortable shoes – those medieval cobblestones look pretty but can be tricky!

Complete Guide to Brasov’s Famous Attractions & Local Food Scene (A Romanian’s Recommendations!)

The Historic Center Highlights and Where to eat

Council Square (Piața Sfatului)

This is the heart of Brasov’s medieval life, still buzzing with energy today. The buildings around the square each tell their own story – look for the different architectural styles and colors. The best time to visit is during Christmas Market (my favorite time!) as it all transforms in a story town square !

During summer, this is a great place to the your Holliwood style photo in front of the Tampa mountain and perfect for people-watching from the surrounding cafes. Who else loves that ?

Best Time to Visit: Early morning (8-9 AM) for empty squares and perfect photos, or during sunset for magical lighting

Avoid: 12-2 PM in summer (peak tourist time)

Must-Visit Restaurant: La Ceaun

• I love their bean soup served in bread (you have to try this!) as not many restaurants serve it nowadays. Here it is simply delicious ! Also, Don’t miss the ‘sarmale’ (cabbage rolls) – some of the best in town. This dish is best served at the locals tables but this restaurant does a great sarmale dish.

Make dinner reservations during Christmas Market season as it gets busy really fast!

Pro Tip: Visit for late lunch (2-4 PM) to avoid crowds

Black Church (Biserica Neagră)

The ortodox church (the main religion in Romania) decided to call this building a church instead of a cathedral. But even if the name sounds so simple, this is our Gothic masterpiece and the largest church between Vienna and Istanbul !

The best time to visit is during organ concerts (usually held several times a week and the schedule is published at the entrance of the church or on this website). There is an entrance fee but it is worth every penny for the history and architecture. Tickets cost 25 RON for adults and 15 RON for students (prices in 2024).

Don’t skip the incredible Persian carpet collection inside!

Best Time to Visit:

• Early morning for exterior photos
• Mid-morning (10-11 AM) for interior visits
• Check organ concert schedule – these are spectacular!

Avoid: Sunday mornings during service

Dining Nearby: You’re just steps from La Ceaun in the main square.

Tampa Mountain

After the old town, this is the next best thing to see in Brasov. Take the cable car up for the best city views (or hike if you’re feeling energetic!). It’s a perfect spot for photos with the Hollywood-style BRASOV sign. Sunsets are pretty amazing here, just bring a jacket as it gets chilly even in summer.

Best Times to go:

• Cable Car Rides: Early morning for clearest views
• Hiking: Start by 9 AM in summer to avoid heat
• Photos: Golden hour before sunset for perfect city shots
• Winter visits: Check cable car schedule – times vary seasonally
• Food Tip: Pack a picnic from local bakeries in the center!

Poaiana Brasov

This is a well known ski resort and it’s just 30 minutes from the city. I love this place in all seasons (I am not a skiing person so I actually prefer it during summer for hikes !). For those you love ski, Poiana Brasov it’s great for beginners and intermediate skiers as well.

There are regular buses from Brasov city center (Bus 20) and it’s easy to get there.

If you are going by car, there are multiple view-points where you can stop to take photos.

The most famous one is this one : https://maps.app.goo.gl/cUiRDeN56UVgSPgQ6

Must-Visit Restaurant: Sura Dacilor

I love this place as it pictures the romanian style decorations in almost a kitch way! Wonderfully kitschy in the best way possible! Everything is overly-made and decorated and even the staff are dressed in traditional clothing. This place is well known, make reservations during ski season!

Must-try dishes:

• make sure to try the ‘Mici’ with mustard (‘mustar’) – Romanian grilled meat rolls. You have to ask the number you want. Normally you would need two or three ‘mici’ for a good plate. Don’t forge to ask for mustard and bread, because I have no idea why but they don’t bring them automatically.
• ‘Papanasi’ – best traditional dessert you’ll find!
• Best Times:
• Lunch during ski season for the full atmosphere
• Dinner for the cozy traditional evening experience

If you want to save all the locations that are mentionned in this article, here is a google map that I made !

Discovering Brasov’s Cultural Heritage off the beaten path (A Local’s Intimate Guide)

Having grown up exploring these historic streets, let me take you through Brasov’s most cherished cultural landmarks and hidden corners that most tourists often miss. Trust me, these spots hold the real soul of our city!

Cultural Must-Sees

The First Romanian School (Prima Școală Românească) holds a special place in our history, nestled in the charming Schei district. Every time I visit, I’m transported back in time – the passionate guides here don’t just show you around, they bring our history to life! The highlight is always their demonstration of Romania’s first printing press, and believe me, watching them work with this historical piece is fascinating. Call ahead to arrange your visit, and don’t rush through – take time to examine the incredible collection of historical documents and first Romanian texts. The school’s small museum holds some of our nation’s most precious historical treasures.

Catherine’s Gate stands proudly as our last remaining original medieval gate, and it’s a testament to Brasov’s Saxon heritage. I love bringing friends here early in the morning when the rising sun hits the stone just right – it’s photographer’s heaven! The gate’s architecture tells the story of medieval Brasov, with its four turrets symbolizing the town’s judicial autonomy during medieval times. Each time I pass through, I imagine the medieval traders and craftsmen who once walked these same stones.

Strada Sforii (Rope Street), Europe’s narrowest street! It’s such a fun spot to visit, especially with friends. There’s something magical about squeezing through this tiny passage that’s barely wide enough for one person. I always challenge my visitors to touch both walls at once – it’s actually possible! Hidden between Strada Poarta Schei and Strada Cerbului, it’s a bit tricky to find, but that’s part of its charm.

The Schei District is where you’ll find the real heart of Brasov. This is where Romanians lived during Saxon times when they weren’t allowed to own property within the citadel walls. Today, it’s my favorite area for experiencing authentic local life. The winding streets lined with traditional houses lead to the stunning St. Nicholas Church, and the whole neighborhood has this wonderfully genuine feel that you just can’t find in the more touristy center.

Cultural Experiences Through the Seasons

Each season brings its own magic to Brasov’s cultural scene. In summer, our city comes alive with outdoor festivals, and you’ll find locals enjoying long evenings at terraces scattered throughout the historic center. The hiking trails around Tampa Mountain fill with nature enthusiasts, and mountain biking becomes a favorite weekend activity.

Winter transforms Brasov into something truly special. The Christmas Market in the Council Square is absolutely magical – I still get excited every year! The smell of mulled wine and traditional treats fills the air, and the whole city glows with festive lights. Ice skating in the city center becomes a beloved evening activity, and Poiana Brasov turns into a winter sports paradise.

Local Tips for the Best Experience

After countless visits through all seasons, I’ve found that September and October offer the perfect balance – comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, and stunning fall colors. Early mornings are always magical in the Council Square, especially for photographers hoping to capture the city’s historic charm without the crowds. For the most authentic dining experience, venture into the Schei district’s traditional restaurants rather than sticking to the tourist spots in the main square.

And if you’re visiting during winter, don’t miss our Christmas Market – it usually runs from early December to early January, transforming the city into a winter wonderland. The medieval square, with its stunning baroque buildings and the Old Town Hall at its heart, transforms into a magical Christmas wonderland that would make any German city proud. It’s no coincidence – our Christmas Market carries the same spirit as those in Germany or Alsace, France, thanks to our deep Saxon heritage that dates back to medieval times.

The smell of vin cald (mulled wine) wafting through the air, the wooden chalets decorated with twinkling lights, and the sound of carols echoing off centuries-old walls – it all feels wonderfully familiar to anyone who’s experienced Christmas in Germany. Yet there’s something uniquely Transylvanian about our market. Here, you’ll find traditional Romanian covrigi (pretzels) being sold alongside German-inspired bratwurst, and local handicrafts mixing with classic European Christmas decorations.

What makes Brasov’s Christmas Market special is this beautiful blend of cultures: Romanian warmth and hospitality meeting German Christmas traditions, all set against the backdrop of our stunning medieval architecture and the snow-capped Tampa Mountain. Standing in the square, sipping hot mulled wine and watching the snow fall gently on the Black Church’s Gothic spires, you might just forget whether you’re in Transylvania or Bavaria!

A local tip from years of Christmas Market visits: come around 4 PM when the lights begin to twinkle on, grab a hot chocolate or mulled wine from one of the wooden chalets, and find a spot near the giant Christmas tree to watch the square come alive with holiday magic. And if you’re hungry, head to La Ceaun for a warm bowl of bean soup in bread – just make sure to book ahead, as it gets incredibly busy during the market season!

Best Photo Spots

Let me share my favorite photography spots accumulated over years of showing friends around. Tampa Mountain viewpoint offers the most stunning panoramas of the city – try to catch it at sunset when the city lights begin to twinkle. The Council Square is most photogenic at dawn when the early morning light paints the baroque buildings in golden hues. The Black Church is impressive from any angle, but my secret spot is from the small street behind it, where you can capture both the Gothic architecture and Tampa Mountain in one frame.

Day Trips from Brasov: Your Local Guide to Must-Visit Spots

Let me share some real insider tips about visiting the castles around Brasov! After countless trips showing friends and family around, I’ve learned all the tricks to make these visits special.

Bran Castle

Of course you will have to visit the Dracula Castle in Transylvania ! Of course this would be the best day trip you could ever do from Brasov. I don’t even know if this is a day trip or just a normal day in Brasov.

Go early and buy your tickets in advance to avoid staying in line. Here’s a secret that will save you hours – while everyone stands in the regular line (sometimes up to 2 hours!), you can simply buy a skip-the-line ticket online. You wouldn’t believe how many Romanians don’t even think about this option! My family in law arrived without tickets and as shocked to see the crowds waiting. My mother in law had the brilliant idea to search skip-the-line tickets online and she hit the jackpot ! In 15 minutes they were inside!

About parking – don’t be surprised when locals wave you into their gardens for parking. Yes, it’s totally normal to pay someone to park in their garden here! It’s just how we do things in Bran.

After exploring the castle, head to Casa din Bran for lunch. Their “pui cu sos de hribi, smântână și mămăliguță” (chicken with wild mushroom sauce and polenta) is absolutely delicious and a romanian tradition !

Peles Castle & Sinaia

The route to Peles is straightforward – there’s really only one way to get there.

Peles Castle is my favorite Romanian castle, hands down. Unlike Bran, Peles shows you exactly how Romanian royalty lived – every room is fully furnished and maintained just as it was during King Carol I’s time. The Neo-Renaissance architecture is stunning, but what makes it truly incredible are the special details inside.

Ever seen those movies with secret passages in libraries? Peles has one! In the grand library, there’s an actual secret door hidden behind a bookshelf. I’ve been here so many times, and it still amazes me. From the impressive armory collection to the private theater, every room feels alive with history.

I fell in love with this castle so much that I chose it for my engagement photos in 2021. There’s something about those intricate wooden carvings, the dramatic turrets against the mountains, and the elegant gardens that just can’t be captured in photos – you have to see it in person.

If you visit, spend the extra money on the extended tour of the upper floors – you’ll get to see more rooms and discover even more fascinating details about royal life. It’s the kind of place that reminds you why Romania’s history is so special.

There are 3 Christmas movies that were filmed here !!! Check out the ……….. on Netflix!

After visiting the castle, skip the tourist restaurants and head to Shaworma La Puiu. Trust me, it’s the best shaworma in Romania! Sometimes the simplest places have the best food. Think of shaworma as Romania’s adopted street food treasure – it’s our version of what you might know as döner kebab or gyros. At La Puiu in Sinaia, they slice this meat and wrap it in a warm flatbread along with fresh veggies, pickles, and your choice of sauces. If you can’t decide, just say “shaworma cu de toate!” and they will understand and make you the best shaworma you will ever eat !

Cantacuzino Castle (Nevermore Academy in Netflix Series Wednesday)

If you’re a Wednesday fan, you absolutely need to visit this castle! Remember Nevermore Academy from the Netflix show? Well, this is it – the actual filming location! The Cantacuzino Castle might not be as famous as Bran or Peles, but it has something special that the others don’t – those incredible mountain views that made Wednesday such a visual feast.

My favorite spot here? The swing! Yes, there’s actually a swing in the castle gardens where you can take the most incredible photos with the Bucegi Mountains as your backdrop. I’ve taken so many friends here just for this photo opportunity – it’s literally Instagram heaven! Every time I visit, there’s usually a small queue for the swing, but trust me, it’s worth the wait for that perfect shot.

The castle itself is beautiful, but what really steals the show is its location. Perched up high in Busteni, the views of the Carpathian Mountains are absolutely breathtaking. No wonder Netflix chose this as their Nevermore Academy – it has that perfect gothic-meets-fairytale vibe that made the show so atmospheric.

Even if you’re not a Wednesday fan, the Neo-Romanian architecture style and the castle’s history are fascinating. The Cantacuzino family knew exactly what they were doing when they picked this spot – those mountain views are unbeatable!

If possbile, visit on a clear day to get the best mountain views and photos. The castle gardens are also beautiful in spring when everything starts blooming. And don’t forget to check out the castle’s terrace – it’s another fantastic spot for photos with the mountains in the background.

After visiting, if you’re hungry, there’s a restaurant right at the castle with that same amazing mountain view. But honestly? The view is better than the food – you might want to save your appetite for other local spots in Busteni.

Quick note – this castle tends to be less crowded than Bran or Peles, but since Wednesday became such a hit, more and more people are discovering it. Still, it’s usually a more relaxed visit than the other castles, and you can really take your time enjoying those incredible photo spots!

Transportation info for Bran (Dracula Castle), Peles Castles and Cantacuzino Castle (Nevermore Academy)

• By Car: This is your best option for exploring freely. Rent your car on the official rentalcars.com website and make sure to have a credit card with you (Romania doesn’t accept debit cards for rentals).
• Local Busses: Available but can be tricky to navigate
• Organized Tours: Good option if you prefer everything arranged and stress-free. Here are three great options !
• Taxis: Available but agree on price beforehand.

Conclusion

Navigating Brasov doesn’t have to be challenging! With this comprehensive guide, you’re now equipped with all the essential information to plan your transportation in and around this beautiful Romanian city. Remember, whether you’re taking the scenic train ride from Bucharest or exploring the medieval streets on foot, each journey in Brasov adds to your Transylvanian adventure. Got your tickets ready? Adventure awaits in one of Romania’s most captivating destinations! I hope this blog helped you organise your next trip. Make sure to follow me on Instagram, facebook or Pinterest to never miss travel information you can not travel without !