Medieval stone walls and Gothic spires define this Transylvanian city, where German architecture lines cobblestone streets beneath Mount Tâmpa's forested slopes.
Brașov lies at the foot of the Southern Carpathian Mountains in central Romania. Walk through its medieval gates, past the 89-meter Black Church, and into the Council Square where 18th-century baroque buildings line the streets. Look up to see Tampa Mountain's peak at 960 meters, marked by its city-name sign, or venture to nearby Bran Castle and the hiking paths of Poiana Brașov.
Historical Context
German merchants established Brașov in 1211, developing it into a key trading point between the Ottoman Empire and Western Europe. The city became a center of education with Romania's first school (1559) and published the first Romanian-language book.
Getting to Brașov
Trains depart every few hours from Bucharest North Station to Brașov, taking 2.5 hours through mountain landscapes. The new Brașov-Ghimbav International Airport connects to several European cities. From the train station, bus lines 4 and 51 reach the historic center in 15 minutes.
Exploring the Historic Center
The Council Square (Piața Sfatului) anchors medieval Brașov with its 18th-century baroque buildings in yellow, pink, and blue. The Black Church stands on the square's southern edge - a fire in 1689 darkened its walls, giving this Gothic building its name. Inside, you'll find Romania's largest mechanical organ and a collection of 119 Turkish carpets from the 15th-17th centuries.
Medieval Fortifications
Walk along the 15th-century defensive walls that still wrap around the old town. The White Tower and Black Tower (both from 1494) overlook the city center from their hillside positions. Catherine's Gate, built in 1559, retains its original four turrets and detailed stone carvings.
Tampa Mountain Activities
Take the cable car up Tampa Mountain (960m) for a 3-minute ride to the summit. From there, follow the marked trail that circles the mountain's ridge - a 2-hour walk with views of the city and Carpathian Mountains below.
Day Trips from Brașov
Buses run every hour to Bran Castle, 30 kilometers away (45-minute journey). While known for its Dracula connections, the castle served as a medieval customs point and later a royal summer residence. Visit Râșnov Fortress, 15 kilometers from Brașov, to explore its restored medieval walls and see the surrounding Burzenland region from its hilltop location.
