Brasov Christmas Market 2026: The Magic of Winter

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What to Expect

The cosy market includes around 40 stalls that surround a giant tree. The colourful Baroque buildings and the famous Black Church are the highlights here.

Romana has some of the most beautiful folk crafts, like hand-woven textiles and woodwork. These are very different from what you’ll find at the big European markets. Additionally, it’s worth noting that the cost is very affordable for international visitors.

Of course, you’ll find food stalls serving traditional specialties, along with local performers and entertainment. The atmosphere is generally fun and easygoing in this part of the world.

Regional Specialties

• Sarmale: Romania’s famous cabbage rolls.
• Salată de boeuf: Salad made with boiled vegetables, pickles, diced beef and a mayonnaise dressing.
• Tocanita de legume: A vegetable stew with bell peppers, aubergines and zucchini simmered in a tomato-based sauce.
• Cozonac: A semi-sweet bread with swirls of cocoa topped with raisins and walnuts.

Food at the Stalls

• Vin fiert: Romanian version of mulled wine.
• Kürtőskalács: Known in English as chimney cake, but it’s particularly loved here in Transylvania, where it originates. It’s made by winding dough around a wooden spit, sprinkling it generously with sugar, and then slowly roasting it over a charcoal fire. As it cools, the sugar hardens, forming a crispy crust around the soft, fluffy interior.
• Mici: Literally meaning ‘little ones’, mici are small, skinless sausages—one of the most popular street foods in Romania.
• Pretzels: Or ‘covrigi’ as they are locally known. They’re usually best sprinkled with coarse sea salt or poppy seeds.
• Bratwurst: International snacks like German bratwurst are also available.

What to Buy

• Baubles: Hand-painted glass ornaments.
• Ceramics: Often sourced from the Horezu region, these ceramics are typically decorated with geometric, animal or bird motifs.
• Embroidered Textiles: Romania is renowned for its folk textiles, featuring vibrant floral or geometric patterns intricately stitched onto the fabric.
• Wooden Items: Ornate spoons, simple bowls and unique chess sets are some of the specialties.
• Jams and Preserves: Made from locally grown fruits such as plums, raspberries, blackberries and local honey.
• Local Spirits: For a more spirited souvenir, look for bottles of ţuică and palincă, traditional Romanian brandies.

Sustainability Tips

• Use Public Transport: Buses are the most popular way to get around.
• Explore on Foot or by Bike: Brasov’s compact city centre is perfect for exploration on foot or by bike. Bike rental services, like Brasov Bike Rent, are an eco-friendly travel alternative.
• Eco-friendly Hotels: Book a hotel that implements sustainable practices and uses renewable energy sources.
• Minimise Food Waste: Although it’s tempting to try many things, try only to order what you can eat to avoid unnecessary food waste.
• Ethical Consumption: When purchasing gifts or souvenirs, consider the source and impact of your choices. Choose items made by local artisans and that are sold directly by the makers or from the region.
• Sustainable Diets: Romanian cuisine has many delicious plant-based dishes.

Comment below if you want to leave a Xmas review, have any questions or would like to report any inaccuracies.

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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. While we make every effort to provide accurate information, the dates and details listed here should not be relied upon as definitive. Please consult the official website before booking your trip or planning a visit.