Spotlight on Brașov

Carpathian Mountains, Gothic architecture and a Hollywood-like sign await you in the Romanian city of Brașov. With its watchtower studded walls and its 15th Century Black Church contrasting against the colourful Saxon townhouses of its Old Town, it’s a great place to explore Romania's History.

Must-see sights include Piata Sfatului, the council square which was rebuilt a few years ago is one of the most beautiful squares in Romania and a perfect place to grab a bite or take a coffee while listening to The Casa Sfatului, a 13th-century building in the middle of the square with a clock tower that still chimes every hour.  Catherine’s Gate, part of Brasov’s fortified mediaeval fortress, which is still remarkably intact with tall turrets and curved walls, Tampa Mountain, the best place to take in views over the city and that Hollywood style sign, and of course Brasov’s Biserica Neagra or the Black Church, the largest Gothic church in Eastern Europe.

Find out more about the history of Transylvania and Brașov at the History Museum, and discover archaeological treasures from the Middle Ages and see how the city has evolved over the centuries, made easier with a friendly guide.

Visit the Art Museum Brasov, and see big-name artists, and enjoy worldly treasures. Check out the stars of Romanian 20th-century painting on the upper floors, or head to the cellar for a dazzling array of European crystal and porcelain, as well as vases and statuettes from China.

Enjoy inexpensive, traditional Romanian food such as soups and broths, meats with pickled vegetables or dine in one of the many Mediterranean and Italian restaurants that can be found here.

If you have time for a day trip, visit Bran Castle 25 kilometres southwest of Brașov, commonly known as Dracula's Castle, believed to have been the home of Vlad the Impaler and the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula!

Bloody thirsty to find out more….