How to Have a Perfect Weekend Escape in Brasov

Start discovering Brasov by taking a walk in the historical centre. In the heart of the city, in the Council Square, the centuries-old Council House stands proudly, a symbol of the city. Inside, you can visit the History Museum. The visit will take you on a trip through centuries, from the pre-history until late 20th-century, revealing Brasov’s Saxon and Romanian heritage. Opposite, at the Toys Museum, you can re-live your childhood, walking among puppets dressed in traditional Romanian clothes, Dacia car miniatures and plush toys.

Once your time-travel ends, visit the majestic Black Church. The biggest gothic church between Istanbul and Wien, the monument is a remarkable landmark of the city, featuring a Bucholz organ and the biggest collection of oriental tapestry, brought from the Middle East by Brasov’s merchants. In summer, the organ concerts are not-to-be-missed.

Gain some higher ground by following the ‘Street behind the walls’ – Strada de dupa ziduri and going up to the Citadel’s towers. Both the White Tower and the Black Tower are open to the public during summer, showcasing small medieval exhibitions. For a better view, take the stairs towards the White Tower. There you can have a first picturesque panoramic view over the city and the Tampa Hill, that borders the southern part of Brasov. Take out your camera and capture the massive medieval walls and bastions that used to protect the citadel.

For lunch, go to La Ceaun restaurant and enjoy a hearty soup and great Romanian specialities in a warm and relaxed atmosphere. The restaurant has two locations, one in the Council Square and the other on the lovely Michael Weiss street. Try the bean soup served in a bread bowl and for dessert, order the delicious papanasi.

The views might be mesmerizing, but Brasov’s small streets and medieval gates are equally charming. What about a walk on the narrowest street of Romania? The Rope Street is a passage between two buildings and all the way long you can touch both sides with your hands. At the end, the Rope Street Museum is waiting for you. Artworks of the local artists, photos of the hidden corners of Brasov, lovely cupcakes, warm coffee and tea, handmade souvenirs, all in the same place. Added to this, lovely hosts and lots of stories and recommendations about the city.

Continue wandering on the city’s beautiful streets and if you didn’t get enough of the lovely views, head on up towards the Tampa Hill and walk along the medieval walls and towers of the citadel. If you are there before 5 p.m., you can take the cable car to the top. From up there, the views are just breathtaking so take in the stunning scenery before going back down to the city.

Spend your evening on the lively Republicii Street and feel the city’s exuberant vibe, as by the end of the day all the locals get out for a drink, animating the streets.

If the first day was about discovering Brasov’s medieval charm, vivid atmosphere and welcoming locals, spend your second day closer to nature, in Poiana Brasov. A top mountain resort in winter, Poiana Brasov is situated at the footsteps of Postavaru Massif, surrounded by astounding landscapes. From the city centre, you can take the bus 20 to get you there.

Start wandering on the streets and breathe in the fresh air. And as Brasov is about awe-inspiring views, Poiana Brasov will not disappoint either. You can take the cable car that goes up on the Postavaru plateau, at 1,724-meters (5,656-feet). If you are in the mood for a hike, follow the ski slope and go back down by foot.

You can take your lunch at Vanatorul Restaurant, in a cosy ambience. Their menu features both traditional and international food, from bear steak to salmon in spinach crust with bearnaise sauce.

If you prefer high-adrenaline activities to long walks, then skip the Poiana Brasov part and go straight to Aventura Parc, the biggest adventure park in Eastern Europe. Depending on the level of difficulty that you prefer, you can take your pick from 15 routes. For the maximum level of adrenaline, the black route takes you on a circuit at 20-meters (65-feet) high. The park features a zip line and a lake with small boats for those who want to relax after testing their limits.

In the afternoon you can get back in the city for a last walk on Brasov’s streets. For dinner, go to Bistro del Arte in the lovely George Enescu Square, a small, quiet and charming place in Brasov, where you can enjoy your last moments in Brasov in peace.