Codlea

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Codlea's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Arrival in Codlea
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 2
Discovering Local Heritage
morning
:

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.

afternoon
:

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.

evening
:

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.

day 3
Nature Adventures
morning
:

Embark on a morning hike in the Piatra Craiului National Park, renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse flora and fauna. Make sure to pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy amidst the beauty of nature. The fresh air and panoramic views will invigorate your spirit.

afternoon
:

After a fulfilling hike, return to Codlea for a leisurely lunch at a bistro featuring seasonal ingredients. Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby natural attractions, such as the scenic Zarnesti Gorge, perfect for nature photography. Engage with local guides who can share fascinating tales of the region's wildlife.

evening
:

As evening approaches, dine outdoors at a vibrant restaurant that offers traditional Romanian fare with a modern twist. Bathe in the golden hour light as you enjoy your meal amidst stunning scenery. Wrap up your day with a stroll along the local park, perhaps encountering street musicians enhancing the evening ambiance.

day 4
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit a local pottery workshop, where artisans create beautiful handcrafted pieces. Participate in a short pottery class to create your own memento while learning about the traditional techniques used. Savor a quick breakfast at the workshop, enjoying local pastries with your coffee.

afternoon
:

After lunch, head to the nearby city of Brașov, known for its medieval architecture and vibrant cultural scene. Spend the afternoon exploring the Black Church and climbing up to Tâmpa Mountain for unforgettable views of the city. Take breaks at charming cafés to reflect on the day's discoveries.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at an open-air restaurant in Brașov, where you can experience a lively atmosphere full of locals and visitors alike. Afterward, take in a local cultural performance or concert to immerse yourself in Romanian music traditions. Return to Codlea late in the evening with fond memories of the vibrant culture.

day 5
Wine Tasting Experience
morning
:

Begin your day with a scenic drive to a nearby vineyard, where you'll learn about the wine-making process. Participate in a guided tour of the vineyard while enjoying the beautiful rolling hills. Enjoy a breakfast featuring local cheeses and charcuterie during your visit.

afternoon
:

Partake in a wine tasting session, sampling some of Romania's finest wines paired with light appetizers. Spend the afternoon relaxing in the vineyard's serene setting, taking in the breathtaking views. Return to Codlea for lunch at a charming eatery with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.

evening
:

For dinner, celebrate your day with a special meal at a fine-dining restaurant that specializes in wine pairings. Engage with your hosts about the region's wine heritage and the art of culinary pairing. Conclude your night with a nightcap, feeling content and full of knowledge about Romanian wines.

day 6
Exploring the Local Market
morning
:

Visit the local market in Codlea, where vibrant stalls are filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, and artisanal products. Engage with the friendly vendors and learn about traditional Romanian ingredients. Enjoy a light breakfast from one of the market stalls as you immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle.

afternoon
:

After browsing the market, spend the afternoon cooking with a local chef who can guide you through classic Romanian recipes using fresh, seasonal produce. Enjoy a hands-on cooking class that allows you to explore new culinary skills. Savor the dishes you've prepared during a communal lunch experience.

evening
:

Dine at a local restaurant that features dishes made from the ingredients you've gathered or cooked during your class. Meet fellow travelers and share stories over a hearty meal about Romanian culinary traditions. End the night with a celebration of new friendships over drinks in a lively atmosphere.

day 7
Day Trip to Transfăgărășan
morning
:

Embark on an early morning journey to the Transfăgărășan highway, one of the most scenic drives in the world. Make stops at various viewpoints to capture stunning photographs of the mountain landscapes. Prepare a breakfast picnic to enjoy along the way amidst nature.

afternoon
:

Continue your journey along the winding road, stopping at the famous Balea Lake for breathtaking views and perhaps some light hiking. Indulge in lunch at a mountain lodge, taking in the tranquility and majestic surroundings. Allow yourself ample time to explore the picturesque landscapes along the route.

evening
:

Return to Codlea in the evening, where you can unwind after a day of adventure with a cozy dinner at a local pizzeria. Reflect on the incredible scenery and experiences from the day. Consider an inviting night walk through the charming streets to conclude your itinerary.

day 8
Art and Creativity
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to local art galleries, discovering the works of talented Romanian artists. Engaging with the artists can provide unique insights into their creative processes. Enjoy breakfast at a café that showcases local art, surrounded by inspiring works.

afternoon
:

Get involved in a local craft workshop, such as painting or textile arts, where you can create your own piece to take home. Enjoy a fun and relaxed atmosphere, and connect with locals who share your passion for creativity. Break for lunch at a nearby bistro, sampling artistic food presentations.

evening
:

For your final evening in Codlea, attend a local theater performance or art exhibition that highlights the cultural richness of the area. Savor a farewell dinner at a traditional restaurant, cherishing the flavors of Romania one last time. Embrace the magic of the night as you reminisce about your immersive journey.

day 9
Departure Day
morning
:

Spend your final morning enjoying a leisurely breakfast at your guesthouse, reflecting on your adventures over the past week. Take a moment to capture any last-minute photos of Codlea’s unique charm. Consider visiting any favorite spots one last time before your departure.

afternoon
:

Pack up and check out of your accommodation, ensuring you have all your memories and souvenirs ready for the journey home. Enjoy a farewell lunch in town, savoring traditional dishes one last time. Take a stroll through the town to absorb the atmosphere and say goodbye to the locals.

evening
:

Depart Codlea, taking with you the rich experience of Romanian culture, nature, and warmth. Reflect on your incredible journey during your travels home and plan for your next adventure. Promise yourself to return one day to explore more of this beautiful country.

Discover Codlea

Read more in our Codlea 2025 Travel Guide.

Codlea Travel Guide