Dedicate your first day to discovering Brașov’s iconic landmarks, including the Black Church, Tampa Mountain, and the Carpathian foothills. Private and small-group tours provide insight into the medieval Old Town with a guide leading the way. Spend the afternoon hiking the Tampa trail, stopping to savor panoramic views from the city’s Hollywood-esque sign—or head into Transylvanian forests in search of native brown bears. Come evening, delve into the city’s Gothic heritage on an after-dark tour, before warming up with a Romanian supper in one of the restaurants off the Council Square (Piata Sfatului).

If you’re curious about Bran Castle’s contentious links to Bram Stoker’s Dracula —or keen to travel farther in search of UNESCO-listed citadels, fortified churches, or prehistoric settlements—it’s time to explore Transylvania’s fortresses and legendary castles. Take advantage of tours that combine historic and rural sightseeing for a more holistic impression of Transylvanian life, then devote your evening to modern Romania by immersing yourself in Brașov’s vibrant nightlife.

Benefit from the abundance of nature tours available to familiarize yourself with Transylvania’s landscape. Active travelers can opt for a hiking or biking tour to get an intimate glimpse of natural highlights such as Liliecilor Cave, Piatra Craiului National Park, or the Seven Ladders Canyon. Back in Brașov, spend your final evening sampling the city’s international fare, or enjoy a traditional dining experience with a private meal in the home of a native Brașovian.