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Brasov | The Perfect Gateway to Discover Transylvania

Brasov is the perfect gateway city to discover Transylvania, one of the most culturally rich regions in all of Romania. This region of Romania is jam packed with diverse things to do. Explore nearby fortified churches. Hike and gawk at unique natural parks. Visit famous castles. Transylvania has many to choose from! Eat traditional and delicious food, and get lost in a picturesque medieval hilltop village. Transylvania has tons of hidden gems, including its own salt region.

One of the best places to explore and discover Transylvania is the city of Brasov. Brasov has an easy-to-navigate city bus system. Two main bus stations make day trips simple. The train station is centrally located, and although slow, it’s reliable and cheap to use. Brasov is an excellent base to explore Romania’s most popular region. I’ll share tips and tricks to discover all the highlights Transylvania has to offer.

Don’t miss a chance to visit these points of interests to discover Transylvania from Brasov!

Table of Contents

Discover the Fortified Churches of Transylvania

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The fortified church of Hărman is just a short bus ride from Brasov!

From Brasov, it’s possible to take a half-day trip to explore two unique fortified churches. These churches are distinctive to the region of Transylvania. The Saxon population has deep roots in this region. The German Saxons started migrating to Romania in the mid-12th century. Upon their migration to southern Transylvania, they began building little communities. The fortified churches started to be built in the mid-13th century.

Transylvania has around 150 of these fortresses still standing. Many which are decently preserved. This area boasts one of the largest concentrations of these historical fortresses built between the 13th and 16th century. Some of these fortresses are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. They are worth a stop on any Transylvania itinerary.

These “communities” all have a church in the center, which is encircled by an impressive fortified wall. The people in these communities lived on the inner “wall.” The outer section of the fortress wall was used to watch for enemies. These fortifications were mostly used to guard from the Ottoman Empire. Although used for protection, these were individual communities. Find churches, schools, storage areas, and a grassy plaza. This grassy area provided a socializing hub for the community.

Brasov to Discover the Fortified Churches of Transylvania

Brasov is a great place to base and explore some of the fortified churches. The bus system is easy to use and makes it possible to reach these two churches by public transportation. Multiple companies run tours for those extremely interested in these medieval fortresses.

Prejmer Fortified Church

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The fortified church of Prejmer is one of the most frequented fortified church in Transylvania.

From Brasov, the most popular fortified church is Prejmer. It is on the UNESCO roster. Prejmer’s claim to “fame” is having the most fortified walls than any other church in Transylvania. This church is fun to explore. Climb around inside the fortified wall. Each twist and turn feels like exploring a dusty old attic. There are over 270 rooms which were used as dwellings and storage. Some sections of the fortress are over 4 levels!

  • Entrance Fee: 15 Lei ($3.25 USD)

Hărman Fortified Church

The Hărman Fortified Church is only a couple miles from Brasov. This was my favorite church, as the people in charge here have really put a lot of thought and care into its restoration. There are plants and flowers lacing the green space and lots of other homey touches. Upon entrance, receive a informative handout that allows for a easy “self-tour.” This fortified church boasts the tallest bell tower in “Burzenland.” Climb up to the top and savor the views. Also, there are some remnants of a painted chapel.

  • Entrance Fee: 10 Lei ($2.25 USD)

Explore Bucegi Natural Park in Transylvania

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Beautiful hiking trails weave through Bucegi Natural Park.

Want to discover Transylvania through a different lens? Explore the wild landscapes, jagged mountains, and quiet hiking trails of Bucegi Natural Park and the Carpathian Mountains. This incredible park showcases some unique rock formations, stunning mountains, and rich forests. Explore it with marked hiking paths. This park is the perfect opportunity to grab a tent and hike through over 80 acres of protected landscapes.

If on limited time, it’s still easy to appreciate Bucegi. There are two cable cars that can whisk you up to the mountains. The cable car is the perfect option for those who only have a day to explore.

The cable cars depart from the villages of Busteni and Sinaia.

Cable Car Options: Busteni vs. Sinaia

Busteni and Sinaia are both easily accessible from Brasov via train. Arrive to either destination within an hour! It is possible to hike between the two cable cars. For example, take Sinaia up and than Busteni down.

Busteni Cable Car

This option is great for day trippers, as it’s the gateway to many of the popular attractions of Bucegi Natural Park.

  • Neary Highlights Include:
    • Sphinx Rock
    • Babele Rock Formations
    • Valley Viewpoints and Waterfalls

Sinaia Cable Car

This option is perfect for those looking to tackle one of the 39 marked trails. It’s rare to meet people in this still hidden gem section of Transylvania. On the way up, look to the right. Do you see Peles Castle nestled in the mountain side?

  • Highlights Include:
    • Quiet trails that pass through rocky mountains and grassy meadow hillsides
    • Unique landscapes
    • The chance to hike and only meet shepherds, their protective dogs, and sheep along the way.

Discover Famous Castles of Transylvania

There are plenty of famous castles to discover in Transylvania. The most famous is Bran Castle. Or as it is often referred to as the “Dracula” castle. This castle has fictitiously gained fame as Bram’s Stokers setting for his famous novel “Dracula.” Those looking to see a more “modern” castle should stop by Peles Castle. This residence was at one time the summer home to the Romanian Royals.

Bran Castle from Brasov

This castle has fictitiously gained fame as Bram’s Stokers setting for his famous “Dracula” novel. Although Bram never visited Romania, many say this castle fits his description the best. It’s thought that Vlad Tepes could have been the inspiration for his novel. Vlad, or Vlad the Impaler, ruled this area in the mid 1400’s. He was known for reigning with harsh methods and savage ways of implementing them. Vlad had no connection to Bran Castle, in fact, he never even set foot inside this fortress.

The “Dracula theme” is in full force once you pass through the gates of Bran castle. Find tacky shops overplaying anything with vampire and bats. There are long lines even to look at the interior souvenir shops.

Practical Info:

  • Entrance Fee: 40 Lei ($9 USD)
  • Hours:
    • April 1- September 30 (High Season)
      • Monday: 12:00 – 18:00
      • Tuesday – Sunday: 9:00-18:00
    • October 1 – March 31 (Off-Season)
      • Monday: 12:00-16:00
      • Tuesday – Sunday: 9:00-16:00
  • Photography permission included with ticket purchase

Visit Bran Castle from Brasov via Public Transportation

  • Buses Depart Brasov from Autogara 2
    • Location: Strada Avram Iancu nr. 114, Brașov
    • City Buses #14, #16, #28 drop close to here.
  • Buses run almost every hour (sometimes more frequently)
  • Time: 45 minutes
  • One-way Ticket Cost: 8 Lei ( $1.75 USD)

Peles Castle

This almost alpine influenced castle is located in the lovely village of Sinaia. Tourists flock here to see the interior of this grand palace, as it was once the summer residence of the Romanian Royal Family. It looks and feels more like a palace than a fortified castle.

Another popular attraction in Sinaia, is the nearby Pelisor Castle. Both castles are now home to museums and only accessible with guided tours.

Practical Info:

  • Entrance Fee:
    • Basic Tour: 30 Lei ($6.75 USD)
    • Optional Tour: 60 Lei ($13.25 USD)
  • There is an additional fee to take photos and videos
    • Photo Fee: 35 Lei ($7.75 USD)
    • Video Fee: 60 Lei ($13.25 USD)
  • Hours are inconsistent and vary depending on season
How to visit Sinaia from Brasov via Train
  • Direct Trains Depart from Brasov Main Train Station
    • Location: Bulevardul Gării 1A, Brașov
  • Time: 1 hour
  • Current Morning & Afternoon Departures:
  • Cost One-way 2nd Class Ticket: Varies, average 13 Lei ($3 USD)
    • Morning tickets are more expensive

A Note About These Two Famous Castles

These are two of the most famous castles in Transylvania. During peak season, it can be almost miserable to visit these two sites. I was in Romania in August and heard fellow travelers swapping horror stories of their visits to these castles. People cue for hours to get their tickets, only to cue inside the castles while the mandatory tour shuffles groups from room to room. Some claimed their groups were up to 40-60 people. Keep in mind, the grand castle rooms are small spaces. For this reason, many tourists were highly disappointed in their visit to these famous landmarks. I’m not discouraging these sites, but rather, I want to emphasize that it’s important to weigh your options and travel smart. These tips may help.

  • First, try to arrive early before the opening hours to avoid long cues.
  • Secondly, avoid the high season. I was here in August, maybe the busiest month.
  • Thirdly, you can easily catch glimpses of the exteriors to avoid the cues.
Want to Visit an Impressive Castle with half the crowds?

I loved visiting Corvin Castle in Hunedoara. It makes as a long, but worthwhile day trip from Sibiu. This is an impressive castle to discover in Transylvania.

I waited in line less than 5 minutes to snag my ticket. There was no mandatory tour, so I was free to roam at my own leisure. Although the castle isn’t lavishly decorated on the inside, and is quite bare, the exterior is stunning! Unlike the other two castles, this one actually had a connection with the famous Vlad the Impalor.

Sibiu, A Taste of Transylvania

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Don’t miss Sibiu, a true highlight on any Transylvania itinerary.

Sibiu, to me, was the shining star of Transylvania. This city was honored as a European Capital of Culture for 2007, with its two major squares lined with bustling restaurants, cafes, and coffee shops. It’s an honor it truly deserves.

Get lost on the inviting colorful streets. The bright houses appear to have eyes observing you, walking along the cobblestone streets. The city feels lived in, which was a huge plus. Find families walking the streets, children playing in the squares, and outdoor seating packed with locals.

Sibiu allows one to discover Transylvania in the form of authentic dishes and modern foodie delights. Yes, this city boasts an incredible foodie scene. Sibiu is the ultimate city to get a taste of Transylvania.

Visit Sibiu from Brasov via Train

Visit Sibius from Brasov with a nice and enjoyable train ride!

Sibiu, More than a Day Trip from Brasov

Sibiu was my favorite city in Romania by far. There are plenty of things to see and explore in and around the city. With that being said, there are some interesting day trip options from here, which are too far from Brasov. It’s possible to visit the stunning Corvin Castle. Just outside of Sibiu is a sprawling outdoor Folk Museum.

While Sibiu is an excellent city to discover Transylvania, Brasov offers a more centralized location to visit major tourist highlights.

For those short on time, base in Brasov. Those who want to travel deeper can split time between Brasov and the lovely city of Sibiu.

Sighisoara, Medieval Hilltop Village

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Early morning strolls through the medieval village of Sighisoara.

A popular day trip in Transylvania is the village of Sighisoara. This village may sound familiar, as it is linked as the birthplace of Romania’s most famous ruler: Vlad the Impaler. Sighisoara is beautiful, but it just won’t let you forget its small claim to fame. Find tacky souvenir shops and restaurants with anything and everything Dracula. It’s impossible to outrun their exploited historical claim to fame.

If you can look past all the “Dracula” memorabilia, Sighisoara is first and foremost a delightful medieval village. It sits perfectly on the hillside with colorful houses, inviting streets, and many old towers that line its fortified city wall. Marvel at an intact and enchanting clock tower.

Sighisoara is small and warrants at least a quick day trip on any itinerary to Transylvania. It sits almost equal distance from both Brasov and Sibiu.

Discover “Off the Beaten Path” Places in Transylvania

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Salt Hill Nature Reserve near Praid is worth a visit with its otherworldly landscapes.

There are many hidden gems scattered about the region of Transylvania. Did you know that there is an old crater volcano lake, thousands of bears roaming the dense forests, and a unique salt region that boasts healing powers? Yes, there are so many diverse activities in Transylvania that most people overlook.

My time was limited, and I discovered most of these adventurous activities a little too late. These lesser known gems entice me to return to Romania in the near future.

Salty Sovata

I did get to spend some time between Sovata and Praid, the salt region of Transylvania. There’s more to this area than salt mines. Soak in muddy natural pools with curative healing powers. Explore the incredible Salt Hill Nature Reserve near Praid, which has salty cliffs that resemble glaciers. Visit the underground therapeutic Salt Mine. The Salt Mine has a church, shops, and a ropes course all below the surface!

Sovata easily topped my list of favorite places in Romania.

Where to Sleep in Brasov

There are many places to sleep in Brasov for any type of budget. Brasov offers a few hostel options, pensions, and hotels. There are many apartment accommodations available in Brasov.

➜ Browse all the best places to stay in Brasov Transylvania

Brasov, The Gateway to Discover Transylvania

In short, Brasov is an excellent gateway to discovering all the treasures that await in Transylvania. Brasov connects popular destinations in Transylvania via efficient buses and scenic trains. While in Brasov, take the time to explore a fortified church. Plan for an adventure in Bucegi Natural Park, or maybe just ride the cable car up for a nice and relaxing day trip.

Visit at least one famous castle in the region. Have a culinary trip in the delightful and cultural city of Sibiu. If you have time, spend a day or two appreciating this beautiful city. The medieval city of Sighisoara warrants a nice day trip from Brasov or Sibiu. For those looking to explore “hidden gems,” don’t miss the salty region of Sovata.

Transylvania is such an incredible region, make sure to discover this culturally rich region while visiting Romania.

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Hey, my name is Megs! I'm an adventure-seeking, wanna-be storyteller, with a wandering soul who is smitten with the diversity of this beautiful world. You can find me hiking in the mountains, eating delicious food, and seeking out the most authentic travel experiences possible. I own very little, and experiences and memories are my most prized possessions. I love to slow travel and have lived a nomadic lifestyle for over 15 years, traveling to over 80 countries. These days, I call Galicia Spain, home with my rescue pup.

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