Is Brasov safe? An honest guide for visitors
Short answer
Brasov is a safe, relaxed city with low crime, and walking in the old town at night is normal. The realistic issues are bills padded with unordered items, unlicensed taxis and, specific to this area, brown bears that come to the edges of the city at night. Petty theft is uncommon but possible in crowds.
The real risks
Brown bears
Bears regularly come to the edges of Brasov and Poiana Brasov at night looking for food. Never feed them, keep a distance, do not leave food out, and follow local warnings on mountain trails. For a safe view, visit the Libearty sanctuary near Zarnesti.
Padded restaurant bills
Unrequested bread, appetisers or drinks sometimes appear on the bill around the main square, and meat or fish may be priced per 100 g. Check the menu and the bill line by line.
Unlicensed taxis
Can overcharge from the train station. Use metered taxis with prices shown on the door, or a ride-hailing app.
Exchange booths
Poor rates or hidden commission. Use bank ATMs or pay by card.
Mountain hazards
Trails on Tampa, Piatra Craiului and Bucegi are well marked, but the weather changes quickly. Carry water and a layer, and in winter check snow and avalanche conditions.
Areas and times to take care
The old town, Strada Republicii and the Schei district are safe and lively in the evening. The main thing to be careful about is forest edges and the outskirts after dark, where bears can appear; stay on lit streets and do not walk forest paths at night.
Getting around safely
Use licensed metered taxis or ride-hailing apps, about 15–25 lei between the railway station and the old town. City buses cost about 3–4 lei. Trains to Bucharest take about 2.5–3 hours, and trains to Sighisoara often run late. Mountain roads to Bran and Sinaia are busy in summer and can be icy in winter.
Solo and women travellers
Brasov is easy for women travelling alone: the old town is compact, busy in the evening and generally relaxed. Usual city precautions apply, such as watching your drink in bars and using a licensed taxi or ride-hailing app late at night. For hiking alone, tell someone your route and stay on marked trails.
Health, water and heat
Tap water is generally considered safe to drink in Brasov; bottled water is cheap if you prefer it. Winters are cold, with highs of about 3–5°C and lows below zero from December to February, and pavements can be icy. Summer is warm (about 25°C) but rarely hot. Ticks are present in forests and grassland, so check yourself after hikes. EU visitors should carry an EHIC; others should have travel insurance.
Official travel advice
Check your government's advice before you travel — it is updated when things change.
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Common questions
Is Brasov safe for tourists?
Yes. Crime is low; the main issues are padded restaurant bills, unlicensed taxis and bears on the edges of the city at night.
Are there bears in Brasov?
Yes. Brown bears regularly come to the outskirts of Brasov and Poiana Brasov at night looking for food. Never feed them, keep a distance and follow local warnings.
Can I drink the tap water in Brasov?
Tap water is generally considered safe to drink; bottled water is widely available if you prefer it.