Brașov

The easiest way is by train: direct flights from Bucureşti Nord train station take 2.5-3.5 hours, tickets are sold on the CFR website or at ticket offices. The road is picturesque, with a gradual ascent to the Carpathians, so a seat by the window will not hurt. Buses and shuttles also run, but the railway here is more reliable and usually faster than a car in traffic jams.

Start at the Old Town Hall (Piaţa Sfatului) - the central square with the town hall tower, and from there reach the Black Church, the largest Gothic church between Vienna and Istanbul. A cable car or trail leads to Mount Tâmpa above the city, about an hour's walk, and at the top - the same view of red roofs and the Hollywood sign. Now take a look at the narrow Strada Sforii street, one of the narrowest in Europe.

The nearest resort is Poiana-Brasov, 12 km away, a base for walking and climbing the Postevarul massif by cable car. For a more serious trek, head to the Pjatra Craiului National Park with its sharp limestone ridge, where routes range from easy to downright climbing. Public transport to the trailheads is limited, so on active days it is more convenient to rent a car or arrange a transfer.

Yes, this is a classic half-day excursion. Bran Castle (the one marketed as "Dracula's Castle") - 30 km away, buses from the Autogara 2 bus station run regularly and take you directly to the entrance. On the way, it is logical to turn into Ryshnov with a well-preserved peasant fortress on a hill, from where a wide panorama of the valley opens. Both places can really be covered in one day if you start in the morning.

For mountain hikes, June-September is optimal: the trails are dry, the ropes are working, and the heat in the mountains does not bother you. The end of September and October add to the golden autumn and there are fewer tourists, although the weather is already moodier. Winter turns Poiana Brasov into a ski resort, so if you're more into the slopes than trekking, aim for December-February.