Introduction
Located in the heart of Romania, at a distance of 140 km (87 miles) northwest of the capital Bucharest, the city of Brasov is the administrative centre of a county with the same name. The county nestles in the region of Transylvania, which has been a hub of tourist-related activities for a long time. The vast Transylvanian plateau, which spreads across a large part of central Romania, is famous for its quiet valleys, sprawling meadows and grasslands. The charming rustic ambience of this county is interspersed by medieval towns, historic castles and winter resorts.

The city of Brasov boasts of a rich historic heritage. It was founded in AD 1211 by the order of the Teutonic knights. It was an important centre of resistance against foreign invaders during the turbulent medieval period. The entire county of Brasov is dotted with a number of monuments that reflect the cultural as well as historical importance of the place.

Brasov not only offers tourists the feel of its rich past but also attracts adventure seekers willing to indulge in activities like trekking, hiking, mountain biking, camping, skiing, etc. The county is famous for its picturesque landscape, which changes colour with the arrival of different seasons. Set amongst the natural canvas of colours, the charming villages of this county provide a relaxing gateway for leisure seekers in the summer season.

Part of Circuit
Transylvanian, Alpine circuit

What to do
Brasov and its adjoining region have much to offer in the form of history, culture, leisure and adventure. The city has a number of interesting historical monuments worth visiting. In its vicinity, there are important ski slopes, hiking trails, camping sites, etc., which are good for outdoor activities.

History
The entire region of Transylvania, including the county of Brasov, was once a part of the Roman province of Dacia. During the Middle Ages, this region was first annexed by the Hungarians and later on by the Turks. The tenacious Romanian people stubbornly resisted the invading Turks, under the leadership of men like Vlad Tepes (1456–75). Vlad fought against the Turks ferociously and earned notoriety as the ‘Impaler’ due to his strange nature. The life of Vlad has been immortalized as Dracula, the bloodthirsty vampire of a popular horror story. The notorious castle of Vlad is situated in the town of Bran, near Brasov. This region was incorporated into the Hapsburg Empire in 1799 and became a part of Hungary in 1867. With the independence of Romania in 1878, Brasov became a free county.

Weather and Best Season to Visit
Due to its location in the Transylvanian Alps, Brasov experiences an Alpine climate, which is characterized by mild summers and cold winters. Brasov can be visited throughout the year.

Attractions
The Council House
According to historical records, the Council House was built in the early years of the 15th century, while the later additions to it were carried as late as the 17th century. This building is an excellent blend of different schools of European architecture. It served as the administrative headquarter of the Brasov county in the past and presently functions as a museum.

Ecaterina gate
This is an impressive gateway to the Brasov Fort and is an important site to visit within the city. The gate, along with its watchtower and battlements, is reflective of the medieval military architecture that prevailed in Europe.

Brasov Fortress
The Brasov Fort was an impressive and formidable fort during the medieval period. It was built in the closing years of the 14th century. The remnants of this once impressive fortress include a number of monuments like the Ecaterina gate, the Black Tower, the White Tower, etc.

The Black Church
It is one of the most impressive churches to be found in Romania. The church, renowned for its Gothic architecture, gets its name because it was burned down in the 17th century.

St. Bartholomew (Bartolomeu) Church
Built in the 13th century, St. Bartholomew Church is the oldest monument in the city of Brasov. It is a fine example of early Gothic architecture.

St. Nicholas (Nicholae) Church
The church of St. Nicholas is another important place to visit in Brasov. It was built in the 16th century with financial aid from the then ruler of Walachia.

Art Museum
The Brasov art museum has a good collection of paintings of old masters as well as of contemporary artists.

Getting Around

The county of Brasov has amply been blessed by natural beauty. No wonder, there are a number of interesting places of tourist importance around Brasov.

Bran Castle
Bran is located at a distance of about 50 km to the southwest of Brasov and is a historically important town. The town has gained popularity because of its association with the infamous Romanian hero, Vlad Tepes or the Impaler. Near Bran, tourists can relax in one of the many village lodges that are set among calm panoramic backdrops.

Poiana Brasov
Poiana Brasov is an important ski resort of Romania. It is located at a distance of 15 km from Brasov city and is open throughout the year. At an altitude of 1,060 m (3477 ft), Poiana Brasov is popular among tourists from all over the world who visit the place to participate in a number of winter sports. This ski resort is equipped with the latest facilities. There are a number of ski trails around it.

Pradeal
Pradeal is located at distance of 24 km to the south of Brasov city and is another popular ski resort.

Important Festivals and Exhibitions
The rural hinterland of the city of Brasov is popular for the celebration of a number of village festivals. The Golden Stag International Music Festival is an important event held annually in Brasov city. Apart from this, regular art exhibitions are organized by the Brasov Art Museum.

SHOPPING
Brasov is equipped with all the facilities of a modern city and is capable of catering to all the needs of present-day city life. It is famous for its traditional handicrafts and jewellery, which are considered among the best to be found in the entire region of Transylvania.

After Hours
The city of Brasov offers a variety of options for a fascinating nightlife. It has a number of bars and discotheques throughout the city for the tourists to revel in.

Hotels
The medieval city of Brasov offers a range of accommodation options to the tourists. These range from top-end to budget accommodation and lodges. The quaint villages set amongst scenic surrounding of Brasov also offer weekend accommodation.
Aro Palace (Four-Star Hotel) B-dul Eroilor 27, 2200,
Brasov
Phone: +40-68-142840

Restaurants
Brasov is the right place to taste traditional Romanian cuisine. There are a number of eateries and good restaurants across the cities, which serve Romanian, Continental, and German cuisines apart from fast food and snacks. The sizeable German minority in Brasov have lent their own unique flavour to the cuisine.
Mado
10 Republicii Street (near Black Church)
Phone: +40-68-475385, +40-95-042675
Cuisine: American fast food, Italian, Turkish, Snacks
Bar: Beer, Hot and Cold drinks, Wine
Seating Capacity: 110

Important Addresses
Travel Agency
BIG Lm
B-dul 15 Noiembrie 43, 2200,
Brasov

Brasov Art Museum
Bd Eroilor 21, Brasov
Phone: +40-68-144384