Brasov Surroundings Tour

Brasov is probably the most visited city in Transylvania and it surely deserve this title. Not only that it has a fascinating history, but it is also located at only 180 km away from Bucharest. That's why most of the tourists arriving in Bucharest would choose a 1 or 2 days Brasov tour. It is a great opportunity to escape a bit from the noisy capital and admire a unique medieval urban architecture.

Schei neighborhood

Taking a tour through Brasov old city center is a must, once you are in this side of the country. But if you are an off-the-beaten-paths traveler, you should not miss Schei district!

It is the oldest neighborhood of Brasov. It lays just outside the fortification walls of the old city, as you exit it through the South-East Schei Gate. The area dates back a couple of centuries before the Brasov citadel was even built. It was know as one of the biggest and most cultural-active Romanian community in Transylvania.

With a unique architecture of small colorful houses and narrow streets, the Schei district conceals some exciting tourist attractions. The first would be the St. Nicholas Orthodox Church. It was built during the 13th century, originally in Gothic style and later, it underwent baroque transformations. The interior is really impressive through the frescoes painted by the famous Romanian painter Costin Petrescu.

First Romanian School

Another interesting sight is right near St. Nicholas Church. The building of the First Romanian School is a colorful house erected in 1495, in the local architectural style.

The Romanian classe though only started in 1583, following Coresi's impressive publishing work. It was the only school of Romanian language in Transylvania, so most of the villages were sending only one student to attend the classes. After that, they were returning to their villages and were sharing the education.

Hiking in Brasov's surroundings

The tiny streets of Schei district will take you to Pietrele lui Solomon (Solomon's Stones). It is a beautiful natural gorge worth visiting if you feel hiking, but the area has also a cultural meaning. Along district's main street, from place to place, you'll see some informative placards. They describe the old water mills that functioned in this region, a few centuries ago. Some of the buildings are still standing and can be admired.

From Solomon's Stones you can either climb the old road towards Poiana Brasov (aprox. 5km /3miles) or take bus no. 50, which will take you back to the Council Square (Livada Postei sation).