Things To Do
in Codlea
Codlea is a small town in Brasov County, Romania, nestled in the foothills of the Carpathians. It serves as a convenient base for exploring Brasov and the surrounding countryside while retaining a distinct, local charm. The town blends traditional Transylvanian culture with modern amenities, offering leafy streets, welcoming eateries, and mountain views.
Visitors will find a mix of relaxed pace, outdoor access, and easy day trips to historic sites like Prejmer Fortified Church and Rasnov Fortress.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Codlea and settle into your accommodation, a cozy guesthouse filled with local charm. Take some time to relax and enjoy the serene surroundings of the Transylvanian countryside. Indulge in a traditional Romanian breakfast to fuel up for the day ahead.
Explore the charming streets of Codlea, visiting local shops and markets to get a taste of Romanian culture. Stop by the Codlea Fortified Church, a stunning historical site that offers insights into the region's rich history. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, sampling regional flavors.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a traditional Romanian tavern, where you can try dishes like sarmale and mămăligă. Join locals for an evening stroll, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of the town. End your night with a glass of țuică, a popular Romanian plum brandy, reflecting on your first day in Codlea.
Start your day with a visit to the nearby village of Râșnov, where you can explore the impressive Râșnov Fortress. The panoramic views from the fortress are breathtaking and provide excellent photo opportunities. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local café before setting out.
Return to Codlea for lunch, then visit the Ethnographic Museum to delve deeper into the area's traditions and lifestyle. Afterward, take a pleasant walk through the surrounding countryside, appreciating the natural beauty of the Carpathian Mountains. Stop by a local artisan shop to pick up handcrafted souvenirs.
For dinner, savor a meal of grilled meats and fresh salads at a local restaurant. After your meal, unwind at a nearby café, where you can enjoy live music and mingle with locals. Experience the warmth of Romanian hospitality in the evening glow.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥪Local street food snack | $2-4 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $2-4 |
| 🍷Mid-range three-course meal for two | $25-40 |
| 🚌City transit pass or ride | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Proximity to Brașov and the Carpathian Mountains, great for day trips
- Friendly locals and a calm, village-city blend
- Affordability and easy access to nature
- Limited nightlife within Codlea itself
- Some services may be basic in smaller establishments
- "Bună ziua" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
- "Vă rog" - Please
- "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Cât costă?" - How much does it cost?
- "Vorbiți engleză?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Codlea
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views toward the Carpathian foothills, especially dramatic at sunrise.
Architectural masterpiece with brick towers and fortress walls ideal for wide-angle shots.
Medieval fortress with sweeping valley views and surrounding hills.
Food in Codlea
Codlea Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tangy tripe soup, often enjoyed as a comforting starter in colder months.
Must-Try!
Cabbage rolls stuffed with seasoned pork and rice, served with polenta or bread.
Fried cornmeal dumplings filled with cheese, a classic mountain dish.
Grilled minced-meat rolls seasoned with garlic and paprika, a staple across Transylvania.
Cluj-style stuffed cabbage with meat and rice, sometimes prepared with smoked meats.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekend mornings offer fresh dairy, cheeses, smoked meats, and seasonal produce.
Fried dough topped with garlic, sour cream, and cheese—popular quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake is typical; address adults with 'domnule' (mister) or 'doamnă' (madam) if appropriate and speak Romanian when possible.
Safety
Tipping in Codlea
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is common if service is good; check if a service charge is already included.
Cash is widely accepted, cards are common in towns, and ATMs are plentiful in Codlea and Brașov area.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with fresh greenery; rain showers are common—pack a light waterproof layer.
Warm days with cool evenings; perfect for hikes and outdoor dining; expect afternoon showers.
Colorful foliage and cooler temperatures; great for photography and scenic drives.
Cold, snowy landscapes with festive markets nearby; some trails may be icy—wear adequate footwear.
Codlea at Night
Hiking in Codlea
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails to a summit with views toward Brașov and Poiana Brașov.
Stunning limestone gorge with marked hikes and dramatic rock faces.
Scenic routes around the fortress offering sweeping valley vistas.
Airports
How to reach Codlea by plane.
Regional airport serving the Brașov area with easy road access to Codlea.
Major regional airport about 150–180 km from Codlea; good for international connections.
Romania's largest airport; reach of international flights; transfer options to Brașov region by rail or road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group in Codlea, with Orthodox heritage.
A small minority in the region with cultural presence.
A local Roma community present in various parts of the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region with local clubs and matches.
Common in Romanian towns with school and club programs.
Popular in the nearby Carpathians during the cold months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Codlea.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy hearty bean stews, roasted vegetables, polenta with cheese, and seasonal salads; many places can adapt dishes on request.