Brasov, Romania: The Enchanting Christmas Market in the Heart of Transylvania
- Alanna Gabbett
- Dec 9, 2024
- 12 min read
Updated: Dec 21, 2024
As the festive season approaches, the charming city of Brașov transforms into a winter wonderland, laced with holiday cheer. Nestled in the heart of Romania and surrounded by the stunning Tampa Mountain, Brașov's cobbled streets and historic architecture provide a perfect backdrop for its vibrant Christmas markets. This guide will take you through Brașov's holiday spirit, highlighting the main market at Council Square, enchanting festive areas, must-try local cuisine, and essential tips for your visit.
The theme of Brașov's 2024 Christmas market is "A Fairytale December" and the event takes place from November 29, 2024, until January 7th, 2025.
Table of Contents
a. Family Fun
b. Gastronomy
c. Important Information
Check out some of these other Romanian Christmas Markets:
Council Square
The heart of the holiday festivities in Brașov is the lively Council Square (Piața Sfatului), where the main Christmas market radiates charm. As you walk into the square, twinkling lights illuminate overhead, and the delightful scent of mulled wine fills the air. Wooden stalls offer a variety of artisan crafts, decorations, and tasty treats.
This year (2024), the market features 55 new wooden stalls, with 10 of them being dedicated to food.
A stunning Christmas tree dominates the square, adorned with sparkling ornaments and lights, perfect for a memorable photo. The backdrop of gothic and baroque buildings, including the famous Black Church adds to the beauty, creating a magical atmosphere.
Local artisans sell handcrafted items like traditional Romanian ornaments, wooden toys, and intricate jewelry. It's a great chance to pick up unique souvenirs that capture Brașov's spirit.
The lively ambiance features live music, enhancing the festive mood. Families often come together to enjoy skating on the ice rink nearby, making for a delightful experience.
Family Fun:
Christmas Tree: The square features a large, natural Christmas tree, the largest in the country of Romania! The tree is truly the heart of the market, standing tall and bright, with a fantastic array of decorations.
The natural Christmas tree dominated Council Square Children's Rides: Here you'll find two rides for children, one being a carousel and one a swing ride (which we have not seen anywhere else in Romania). In addition to rides, we noticed a few vendors selling themed and character balloons to children.
Our kids loved riding the carousel and swings!
Price for one ride was 20 lei in 2024
Concerts and Performances: Throughout the advent season, a wide array of events are held on the concert stage. During our visit on a Sunday evening, we were able to watch some caroling here.
Carolers take the stage on a Sunday evening
Decorations: The square features brand-new wooden stalls, which bring the most charming vibes to the square. The stalls are unlike those in any other part of Romania as they look straight out of a storybook. Hand-painted to look like decorated gingerbread houses, they certainly bring a magical atmosphere to the square.
Other than the Christmas tree and storybook stalls, the square is filled with beautiful light displays, from the angel light installments surrounding The Council's House, to the lights streaming down the building itself, the decorations were very well done.
Kids will love seeing the Brasov sign lit up on the mountainside and you'll have the perfect view from Council Square!
Gastronomy:
Although this Christmas market is a bit smaller than some others across Romania, there is still a decent variety of food available. We noticed 3 or 4 stalls selling traditional Romanian food, a wurst (hot dog) stall, loaded fries, langos, gogosi, bubble waffles, hot lemonade, wine, hot chocolate, and a large variety of traditional pastries and desserts, as well as candies, lollipops, and of course meats and cheeses to take home.
Average prices in 2024:
Vin fiert (mulled wine): 12 - 15 lei
Hot chocolate: 10 - 12 lei
Coffee: 10 lei
Traditional food plate: 25 - 35 lei
Hot dog (wurst): 30 - 40 lei
Kürtőskalács (chimney cake): 20 lei
Langos: 10 - 20 lei
Gogosi: 20 - 40 lei
Lollipops: 15 lei
Turta Dulce (gingerbread cookies): 8 - 15 lei
Local pastry: 10 - 15 lei
A hot dog and apple dessert we got from the market
Important Information:
Seating: The square does not feature seating, however, does have a few standing tables to utilize near the food stalls. We only noticed a handful of standing tables so during busy periods it will be almost impossible to set down your food and drink.
Accessibility: The market was both stroller and wheelchair friendly, offering flat surfaces to enter all areas of the market.
Restrooms: The square has paid public restrooms in front of the Starbucks that are run by an attendant and pretty clean.
Parking: There are a few parking options in the city and in the blocks around the square. There are some free public spaces and some paid area. However, during busy periods it may be difficult to secure a spot. We recommend walking or taking public transport.
Try using Parkopedia to find parking lots and garages near the square.
Payments: We noticed that most stalls accepted card as well as cash, however most local vendors will prefer cash. You'll notice signs on almost every stall indicating whether they take a card. We had no issues using American credit cards here.
Location: Council Square- Piața Sfatului Admission: Free Operating hours: 2:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. (weekdays), 10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m. (weekends) Stroller accessible: Yes Ice skating: No Lights: Yes Santa: No Reason to visit: Cozy atmosphere, live performances, and the most beautiful Christmas tree in Romania.
Other Festive Areas
While Council Square is the main attraction, Brașov is home to several other festive spots worth exploring.
Small Market at the Rectorate: On your way to Council Square, make sure to check out a smaller market located just in front of The Rectorate of the University of Brașov. Here, you'll find about a half dozen stalls selling drinks and pastries. There's also a small children's train ride (although it wasn't running when we visited).
Ice Skating: Although there's no ice rink at Council Square, the city does have one in the Winter season, located a short walk away. Patinoarul can be found just a 10-minute walk from Council Square and offers a large rink, affordable prices (about 20 lei for an adult ticket), and occasionally offers skating lessons.
The ice rink is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. and is closed on Mondays.
Strada Republicii: Stroll down Strada Republicii from Council Square, where you'll find additional holiday stalls offering sweet treats and handmade gifts and beautifully done streetlights. It offers a nice break from the busy square in the evenings
Bulevardul Eroilor: Along Bulevardul Eroilor, you'll also find beautiful streetlights and decorations. The street runs parallel to Parcul Nicolae Titulescu, where you'll find beautiful lights and plenty of benches to sit on.
Must-Try Cuisine
No trip to Brașov's Christmas markets is complete without indulging in local culinary delights. Romanian cuisine is rich and diverse, offering a satisfying variety to warm your heart and thrill your taste buds.
Here are some must-try local foods, treats, and drinks:
Sarmale
A trip to Romanian Christmas markets is incomplete without trying sarmale, the beloved cabbage rolls that are a staple of Romanian cuisine. Each roll is filled with a delicious blend of minced pork, rice, and spices, then slow cooked in rich tomato sauce. This cooking method enhances the flavors and results in a dish that warms your spirit. Typically, sarmale is served with a generous dollop of sour cream
Plate of Sarmale and Mamaliga Mici
Grilled to perfection, make sure to try mici (grilled minced meat rolls) which you'll find at various stalls – a delicious treat loved by locals and visitors alike. And don't forget your side of mustard!
Mici with a side of mustard Mămăligă
Another beloved staple you'll find at the market is mămăligă, a warm, hearty polenta dish that's perfect during chilly winter days. Made from cornmeal and water, it can be served creamy or allowed to firm up before being sliced. It's often topped with cheese and sour cream, making it a rich side for meats or stews. At the market, you can sample different interpretations of this dish, which varies widely throughout Romania but always promises comfort and flavor.
Zacusca
Zacusca is a roasted eggplant and red pepper spread similar to ajvar that can be found in other Balkan countries. Food lovers should try Zacusca on fresh bread, paired with hot spiced cider for the ultimate cozy experience.
Glühwein (vin fiert)
As temperatures drop, warm yourself with a steaming mug of glühwein—a spiced, mulled wine that has become a hallmark of holiday markets across Europe. Typically crafted from red wine, sugar, and an array of spices like cinnamon and cloves, glühwein delights your senses. Each stall at the market may offer its unique twist, allowing you to explore various flavors and styles as you sip on this comforting drink. A perfect drink for chilly nights, various vendors serve homemade versions in festive mugs, becoming a favorite for many visitors.
Beer and Craft Brews
The craft beer scene makes a notable appearance at the Christmas market, showcasing local brewers and their unique offerings. Sample a variety of craft beers, from rich stouts to hoppy IPAs. Exploring the local tastes can refresh your palate between bites of hearty Romanian dishes. This allows you to appreciate the craftsmanship and creativity of Romanian artisans, which is reflected in every bottle.
Langos
Do not miss the chance to try Langos, a popular deep-fried flatbread topped with creamy sour cream, cheese, and garlic. This savory delight features a crispy exterior and a fluffy inside, making it hard to resist as you stroll through the market. It’s a quick snack that satisfies your hunger while enhancing the festive experience.
Langos is actually a typical Hungarian food but can be found at Christmas markets in many cities and countries throughout Europe.
Traditional langos with cheese and sour cream Papanasi
After enjoying savory dishes, save room for papanasi, a delightful dessert loved by many. These fried or boiled cheese doughnuts are generously served with sour cream and luscious fruit preserves, often blueberry or cherry. Their lightness, combined with the rich flavors, makes papanasi a perfect way to conclude your culinary adventure at the market.
Romanian Papanasi Gogosi
These can be found at every market location and are a big hit with the kids. These fluffy Romanian donuts holes are offered with a variety of toppings and always hit that sweet spot.
Kürtőskalács
Also known as chimney cakes, this sweet pastry consists of yeast dough, rolled around a spit and baked to perfection over an open flame. After baking, it is coated in sugar, cinnamon, or crushed nuts, producing a crunchy outside and soft, warm center. The enticing aroma wafting through the market is sure to capture your attention and entice you to treat yourself.
Although originating in Transylvania, these are known as the oldest pastry in Hungary and can be found in Christmas markets in multiple countries.
Cooking chimney cakes at the market Cozonac
This sweet bread, often filled with nuts or chocolate, can be found throughout the Christmas Markets, representing warmth and holiday tradition. This soft, delicious bread is braided and has a rich, buttery flavor that makes it perfect for sharing. At the market, you can enjoy a slice with your favorite seasonal drink, creating a delightful combination of flavors. Statistics show that Romanian families make nearly 2 million cozonaci during the Christmas season, showcasing its importance in holiday traditions.
Tips for an Enjoyable Visit
To maximize your festive adventure in Brașov, here are some practical tips:
Dress for the Weather: Brașov can be quite cold in December, so bundle up in thermal clothing, a good coat, gloves, and a scarf to stay comfortable while exploring. It can get pretty chilly, especially in the evenings, so it's essential to bundle up if you plan on enjoying your time wandering the markets. It's especially important when traveling with children. We always recommend wearing a thermal layer under your clothes and always bringing a war, pair of hat and gloves.
Plan Your Visit: The Christmas market generally runs from late November to early January, though specific opening dates may vary. Check schedules ahead of time to catch special events or performances in the square.
Cash is Key: Although many vendors accept cards, carrying cash is advisable for smaller stalls. Local ATMs are readily accessible if you need cash, although we recommend exchanging currency rather than withdrawing from an ATM, due to the fees involved.
Engage with Vendors: Take time to interact with local artisans. They often have fascinating stories about their crafts and the traditions behind them, enriching your experience.
Visit During Weekdays: If possible, visit the markets on weekdays to avoid the busy crowds for a more relaxed experience. If you must visit on a weekend, try to visit earlier in the afternoon or around lunchtime, as the evening tends to be quite chaotic. On a Sunday evening, the crowds were difficult for us to manage with our 2 kids in a stroller. Every food stall had a very long line and some even sold out of food!
Keep in mind that most performances and events are held on weekends and evenings so if that's important to your experience, you'll have to embrace the crowds.
Accessibility and Surroundings
Brașov is known for its charming cobblestone streets and medieval architecture while being mindful of accessibility. The main market in Council Square is generally accessible for those with mobility aids, providing flat surfaces and nearby amenities.
However, smaller markets on surrounding streets may feature uneven paths or a less accessible layout. If you need specific assistance, check in advance with venues or local tourist information.
Public Transportation
The main market areas are centrally located and easily walkable. Well-connected by public transport, they are easy to reach and make navigating the city easy and convenient.
Efficient public transportation, including a network of buses makes getting to the markets convenient. Taxis and ridesharing services are also readily available for smooth travel.
Brașov's transportation service is called RATBV SA.
Depending on what bus line you are traveling, tickets can be purchases either directly from the driver, with a bank card at the vehicle validators, from other RATBV SA points of sale, or electronically using the 24Pay app.
Facility Locations
Public restrooms in main market areas are readily accessible. At Council Square, you will find public restrooms for men and women behind the main stage and in front of the Starbucks building. Additionally, you can use the restroom inside Starbucks when you make a purchase. Restrooms at Council Square are not wheelchair accessible and involve descending down a flight of stairs, so keep this in mind.
Nearby Attractions
The area around the Christmas market is rich with attractions. Spend time exploring the famous Black Church, ascend Tampa Mountain for breathtaking views, or stroll along the historic streets to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the Christmas market dates and hours in Brașov?
The Christmas markets typically open in late November and run until early January. Specific dates may vary annually, so it’s wise to check the official Brașov tourism website for updates. The Christmas markets are usually open all day on the weekends (from around 10:00 - 10:00) and on weekdays, they open a bit later at around 2:00 p.m.
Past dates:
The 2023 season was held from November 30th, 2023, to January 7th, 2024.
The 2024 season was held from November 29th, 2024, to January 7th, 2025.
For 2025 opening dates, consult the official city website here.
Is there a fee to enter the Christmas market?
No, entrance to the Council Square Christmas market is free. You can freely stroll around, browse stalls, and enjoy the festive ambiance at no cost. The only cost you will incur is on the products and food you purchase at the stalls.
What local delicacies can I find at the market?
The market offers a range of local foods, including mici (grilled sausages), sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), and sweet treats like cozonac (sweet bread) and placinta (pastries). Don't forget to sample the mulled wine!
Are there any special events or entertainment at the market?
Yes, the Christmas market features live music, dance performances, and additional festive entertainment. Be sure to check the market schedule to catch specific events during your visit.
How can I reach Brașov from Bucharest?
Brașov is easily accessible from Bucharest by train or bus, typically taking around 2.5 to 3 hours. The journey offers beautiful scenery along the way, making it a worthwhile trip.
There are also a variety of guided tours that will take you here.
Check Out This Day Tour from Bucharest!
Exploring the Christmas markets in Brașov is an experience filled with warmth and joy, perfect for creating cherished memories. From the enchanting atmosphere of Council Square to the delightful local cuisine, every corner has something special to offer.
With this guide, you're ready to immerse yourself in Brașov's magical Christmas celebrations. Enjoy the rich traditions, delicious flavors, and stunning views that will leave you in awe. So, bundle up, embrace the holiday cheer, and allow Brașov to enchant you this Christmas season!
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