Things To Do
in Codlea

Codlea is a charming town located in Brașov County, Romania, nestled in the Carpathian foothills. Known for its rich history and beautiful landscapes, it offers a glimpse into traditional Romanian culture. The town is characterized by its medieval architecture, including the iconic Codlea Fortress.

With a variety of outdoor activities and proximity to the larger city of Brașov, Codlea serves as an excellent base for exploration.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Codlea
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Codlea Fortress, where you can take in panoramic views of the surrounding area. Afterward, enjoy breakfast at a local bakery, sampling fresh pastries and coffee.

afternoon
:

Head to the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and shop for handmade crafts. Visit the nearby Orthodox Church, known for its impressive architecture and serene ambiance.

evening
:

Dine at one of Codlea's traditional restaurants, savoring local dishes. Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll through the town center, enjoying the evening air.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a hike in the nearby Piatra Mare Mountains, enjoying the natural beauty and wildlife. Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the stunning scenery.

afternoon
:

Explore the scenic trails and visit a nearby waterfall. Return to Codlea for a relaxing afternoon at a local café, where you can try some traditional Romanian desserts.

evening
:

Enjoy a casual dinner at a pizzeria, followed by visiting a local bar for drinks and mingling with locals.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$8
Coffee$2
🍺Local beer$3
🚌Bus ticket$1
🏨Night in a hotel$40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may not be as frequent.
  • English is not widely spoken outside tourist areas.
  • "Bună ziua" - Good day
  • "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
  • "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Cât costă?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Ajutor!" - Help!

Places to Visit in Codlea

Visit one of these nice places.

Codlea Fortress

Capture stunning views of the town and surrounding mountains from this historic fortress.

Orthodox Church of Codlea

Photograph the intricate architecture and beautiful frescoes of this iconic church.

Piatra Mare Mountains

Ideal for breathtaking landscape shots, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Codlea

Codlea offers a delightful culinary scene that showcases traditional Romanian flavors and local ingredients. Visitors can indulge in hearty dishes, fresh produce, and a variety of beverages that reflect the region's rich agricultural heritage.

Codlea Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sarmale

Cabbage rolls stuffed with a mix of meat and rice, served with a side of sour cream.

Must-Try!

Mămăligă

A traditional polenta dish often served with cheese, sour cream, or stews.

Ciorbă de burtă

A sour tripe soup, seasoned with vinegar, egg yolks, and topped with sour cream.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Codlea Market

A local market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, and homemade goods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Codlea experiences a temperate-continental climate, with four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) are cold, with average temperatures around -5°C (23°F) and snowfall. Spring (March to May) sees gradual warming, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 20°C (41°F to 68°F). Summers (June to August) are warm, averaging 25°C (77°F) and can reach up to 30°C (86°F). Autumn (September to November) is cool and crisp, with temperatures dropping from 20°C to 5°C (68°F to 41°F).

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is the standard greeting, and it is polite to maintain eye contact during introductions.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal before eating, and it is customary to say 'poftă bună' (enjoy your meal) before starting.

Dress Code

Dress modestly when visiting churches and formal events; casual wear is acceptable in most other settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Codlea is generally a safe town for tourists, with low crime rates. However, visitors should remain vigilant and take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping valuables secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it is advisable to have travel insurance in case of unexpected situations.

Tipping in Codlea

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included in the bill.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but cash is recommended for small purchases and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring brings blossoming flowers and mild temperatures, perfect for hiking and exploring the outdoors.

Summer

Summers can be warm, making it ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying local festivals.

Autumn

Fall showcases vibrant foliage, and the cooler weather is great for hiking and photography.

Winter

Winters can be cold with snow, providing opportunities for winter sports and picturesque landscapes.

Nightlife Guide

Codlea at Night

Codlea's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities. The town features a few cozy bars and pubs where locals gather to enjoy drinks and socialize. In the summer, outdoor terraces become popular spots, while seasonal events and festivals often provide entertainment options. For more vibrant nightlife, visitors can travel to Brașov, which is only a short drive away.

Hiking in Codlea

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Piatra Mare Trail

A well-marked trail offering stunning views of the Piatra Mare Mountains, suitable for hiking enthusiasts of all levels.

Tâmpa Mountain Trail

Located nearby, this trail provides a moderate hike with rewarding panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Codlea by plane.

Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP)

Located about 160 km from Codlea, this is the nearest major airport, offering flights to various international destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Codlea is a walkable town, with most attractions, restaurants, and shops located within a short distance of each other. The streets are pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are parks and green spaces that encourage leisurely strolls.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Romanian Nationals

The majority of Codlea's population consists of ethnic Romanians, who maintain a strong cultural identity and traditions.

Hungarian Minority

A smaller segment of the population includes ethnic Hungarians, contributing to the town's cultural diversity and heritage.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is a popular sport in the region, with local teams and community matches often attracting enthusiastic crowds.

Skiing

In the winter, nearby mountains offer great skiing opportunities, making it a favored sport among locals and tourists alike.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Codlea is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation options include local buses that connect to nearby towns and cities. However, during peak hours, traffic can increase slightly, especially on routes to Brașov.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Codlea.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be adapted for vegetarians, such as mămăligă and various salads.

Gluten-Free

Some restaurants offer gluten-free options; always check with the staff for availability.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Codlea is accessible, with a few local clinics and a hospital catering to residents and visitors. For more specialized care, larger hospitals and medical facilities are available in Brașov, which is about 15 km away. Emergency services can be reached quickly, and it is advisable for travelers to have health insurance to cover any medical needs.

Discover Romania

Read more in our Romania 2025 Travel Guide.

Romania Travel Guide