Getting Around Brașov
Brașov is a compact city with a historic old town that is highly walkable, but also sprawling suburbs and valleys that require public transport to reach. The city is well-served by buses operated by RATBV, the sole public transport operator, which runs an extensive network throughout the city and surrounding metropolitan area.
Walking
The old town and its westward extension into the Șchei district are compact and walkable, with much of the area organized as a pedestrian precinct. This makes exploration on foot very practical for visitors staying in or near the historic center. For longer distances or accessing outlying attractions, public transport is necessary.
City Buses
RATBV operates all public bus transport within Brașov. The bus network is extensive and reliable, with service running weekdays from approximately 05:30 to midnight, and weekends from approximately 06:30 to 23:00. There is no night service. Most bus stops feature real-time digital displays showing arrival times for upcoming buses.
Buying Tickets
There are several ways to pay for bus travel:
- Use the 24pay smartphone app, which involves scanning a QR code by the driver for the least hassle
- Purchase paper tickets from kiosks or ticket machines at main bus stops, or from nearby newsagent kiosks and supermarkets displaying a "bilete" sign, then validate after boarding
A standard ticket costs 5 lei and is valid for two 50-minute journeys with unlimited transfers. If you plan to stay longer term, a one-month pass is available for 85 lei, providing unlimited travel on all bus lines.
Key Routes for Visitors
Several bus lines are particularly useful for visitors:
- Bus 4 connects the railway station to Piața Sfatului in the old town center, continuing through Șchei and Tocile
- Bus 50 runs through multiple districts including Piața Unirii and the old center via Livada Poștei
- Bus 20 runs from Livada Poștei to Poiana Brașov (costs 6 lei one-way; not covered by standard 5 lei tickets)
- Bus A1 connects the railway station to Brașov Airport
- Buses 12, 15, and 28 from Livada Poștei serve Autogara 2 (the second bus station)
- Buses 2 and 8 reach Coresi Mall, the largest shopping center in the city
- Buses 17 and 35 serve the zoo and adventure park
- Bus 17B serves hikers heading to Piatra Mare mountains, including Seven Ladders canyon
Livada Poștei is the primary bus interchange near the old city center and serves as a major hub for connections throughout Brașov.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing
Taxis are available throughout the city and are most practical when traveling with luggage or during times when buses are not running. Fares are metered at approximately 3 lei per kilometer. A typical journey from the railway station to the old town center should cost no more than 20 lei. Uber is also available in Brașov. Note that taxi drivers at the railway station may attempt to overcharge, so exercise caution when selecting a taxi at this location.
Rail Connections
Brașov has a railway station located about 3 kilometers north of the old town center, at the foot of Boulevard Victoriei. The station is a communist-era building with ticket kiosks, ATMs, cafes, and a 24-hour left-luggage service. City buses (notably lines 4 and 51) connect the station to the old town center. The station has direct connections to Bucharest, Budapest, Sibiu, Cluj Napoca, and Constanța, operated by CFR Călători.
Getting from the Airport
Brașov Airport, Romania's newest airport, opened in June 2023 and is located near the city. Bus A1 provides direct service from the airport to the city. Currently, the airport offers limited flight options, with connections to Dortmund and London-Luton provided by Wizz Air.
For visitors arriving at Bucharest Otopeni Airport, approximately 160 kilometers south, direct buses and trains serve Brașov. Trains from Bucharest's Gara de Nord depart every one to two hours and take approximately 3 hours to reach Brașov.
Bike Rental
Bike rental is available in the central square, Piața Sfatului, at 4 lei per hour, offering another option for exploring the city and surrounding areas.
Regional Travel
Brașov serves as a transport hub with two main bus stations (autogari) for intercity travel. Autogara 1 is located next to the railway station and handles buses to Bucharest, including services via Otopeni Airport. Autogara 2, located at the foot of Strada Avram Iancu about 4 kilometers north of the old center, serves other destinations including Sibiu, Cluj Napoca, and regional routes. Regular intercity buses connect Brașov to major Romanian cities and nearby countries, with journey times ranging from 2.5 hours to nearby Sibiu to 4.5 hours to Cluj Napoca.