Brașov – Expat City Guide
Mountain town in the heart of Transylvania. Medieval charm meets outdoor lifestyle.
Quick Facts
- Population: ~290,000
- Expat population: ~2,000+ (growing)
- Average rent (2-bed): 350-500 EUR
- Average salary: 1,100-1,600 EUR net
- Nearest airports: Bucharest (OTP) 2.5h, Sibiu (SBZ) 2h
Why Brașov?
- Stunning mountain setting – Carpathians at doorstep
- Medieval old town – Well preserved, picturesque
- Outdoor lifestyle – Skiing, hiking, year-round
- Growing remote work hub
- Dracula tourism – Bran Castle nearby
Best Neighborhoods
Central
- Centrul Vechi (Old Town) – Medieval, touristy, charming
- Schei – Historic Romanian quarter, authentic
- Blumana – Central, residential, good location
Residential
- Tractorul – Near nature, affordable
- Astra – Family area, parks
- Bartolomeu – Quiet, residential
Outdoor Activities
Winter (December-March)
- Poiana Brașov – Ski resort, 15 min from city
- Predeal – Additional slopes, 30 min
- Ski pass: ~150-200 RON/day
Summer
- Tâmpa Mountain – Cable car, hiking trails above city
- Piatra Craiului – Spectacular hiking
- Bucegi Mountains – Sphinxes, alpine trails
- Bear watching – Guided tours available
Day Trips
- Bran Castle – 30 min, “Dracula’s Castle”
- Peleș Castle – 1h, stunning royal palace
- Sighișoara – 2h, medieval citadel, Dracula birthplace
- Sibiu – 2h, beautiful Saxon town
- Transfăgărășan Road – 1.5h, epic mountain road (summer)
Work & Business
- Tourism sector – Hotels, tours, hospitality
- Remote workers – Growing digital nomad scene
- Coworking: Commons Brașov, others emerging
- Manufacturing: Some industry outside city
Practical Info
- Getting there: Train from Bucharest (2.5h), car, or bus
- No airport: Closest is Bucharest Henri Coandă
- Climate: Cold winters (-10°C), mild summers (25°C)
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Beautiful nature | Limited job market |
| Great for outdoor lovers | No airport |
| Affordable living | Touristy in old town |
| Safe, clean city | Cold winters |
| Growing remote work scene | Smaller international community |
