Things To Do
in Covasna
Covasna is a scenic town in central Romania known for its healing springs and Székely-Hungarian cultural heritage. Nestled in the Carpathian foothills, it offers thermal baths, forested landscapes, and a relaxed pace away from big cities. The area blends Romanian and Hungarian culinary influences, with traditional dishes and hearty, comforting flavors.
Visitors can experience nature, spa culture, and village hospitality in a compact, approachable setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure with a refreshing hike through the stunning local forests, where the morning sun filters through the trees, creating a magical atmosphere. Capture the beauty of the diverse flora and fauna while breathing in the fresh mountain air, invigorating your senses. A visit to the nearby mineral springs will also set a relaxing tone for the day ahead.
After a hearty lunch at a local eatery, continue your exploration by visiting the picturesque Covasna town center. Here, you can discover charming shops and cafes that reflect the local culture and heritage. A leisurely walk around the town's quaint streets will give you plenty of opportunities to sample delicious local produce.
As the day winds down, head to a cozy restaurant for dinner and indulge in traditional Romanian cuisine. Enjoy the ambiance of the restaurant, with its warm lights and friendly locals, while savoring a glass of local wine. After dinner, take a peaceful stroll under the starry sky, soaking in the tranquility of this enchanting location.
Begin your day with a visit to the local museum, where you can learn about the rich history and culture of the Covasna region. The exhibits offer fascinating insights into the diverse ethnic influences that have shaped the area, all while enriching your understanding of local customs. Afterwards, enjoy a traditional Romanian breakfast at a nearby café.
Spend the afternoon visiting the iconic churches and cultural landmarks that give Covasna its unique charm. Engage with local artisans and craftspeople, who may offer workshops showcasing traditional skills, allowing you to take home a piece of Covasna. Don't miss the chance to participate in a folk dance class to immerse yourself fully in the local culture.
As night falls, experience a cultural performance featuring traditional music and dance, which is often organized in community centers or local venues. This lively atmosphere is perfect for meeting other travelers and locals alike. Finish your day with a light meal at a cafe, reflecting on the vibrant experiences you've had.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-3 |
| 🧀Local cheese | $4-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-100 |
| 🚆Bus ticket (local) | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Scenic countryside and mountain scenery
- Rich Székely-Hungarian cultural heritage
- Relaxing thermal spa options
- Friendly locals and relatively low crowds
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Some attractions are seasonal or require car travel
- Transport network can be limited outside town centers
- Weather can be variable in shoulder seasons
- "Bună ziua" - Hello / Good day
- "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 Covasna
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic core with colorful facades, arcades and a vintage clock tower; ideal for street photography.
Dense pine forests, water features and the spa complex—great for nature and architectural contrasts.
Nearby volcanic crater lake with clear water and forested slopes; sunrise/sunset shots are popular.
Food in Covasna
Covasna Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich, paprika-spiced Hungarian-inspired stew typically served with bread or dumplings.
Must-Try!
Rice-stuffed cabbage rolls simmered in tomato sauce; a staple at many homes and eateries.
Traditional tripe soup enriched with sour cream and vinegar; a comforting regional favorite.
Soft fried or boiled cheese dumplings topped with sour cream and fruit jam for a sweet finish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh produce, dairy, smoked meats, honey, and pastries.
Lángos, kürtőskalács (chimney cake), and roasted snacks available near town centers on weekends.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Romanian and Hungarian are common; greet with a handshake; use polite forms and titles.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; speak softly and do not interrupt ceremonies.
Safety
Tipping in Covasna
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafes, a tip of 5-10% is customary if service is not included.
Cash is widely accepted; credit/debit cards are common in towns; some rural places may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with fresh greenery; expect rain; good for hiking with lighter gear.
Warm to hot days; perfect for outdoor activities and spa visits; expect weekend crowds.
Colorful foliage; cooler temperatures; great for photography and harvest celebrations.
Cold with potential snow; thermal baths are especially appealing; roads can be icy.
Covasna at Night
Hiking in Covasna
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with viewpoints, streams and alpine scenery.
Nearby Harghita region offering forest trails and a volcanic crater lake.
Airports
How to reach Covasna by plane.
Main international airport in the region, about 150-200 km by road.
New regional airport serving nearby areas; shorter drive from Covasna.
Large hub about 250-300 km away.
Regional airport within a few hundred kilometers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant Hungarian-speaking community alongside Romanians.
A generally bilingual population; Hungarian language widely spoken in some areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular local sport with amateur clubs and matches.
Skiing, snowshoeing and sledding in surrounding hills during winter.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Covasna.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be prepared vegetarian; ask for mushroom or cheese-filled options and fresh salads.