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Brasov Unveils Romania's Biggest Christmas Market in a Medieval Setting

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  Published in Food and Wine on Friday, December 5th 2025 at 7:57 GMT by Travel + Leisure

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The Heart of a Transylvanian Holiday: Romania’s Largest Christmas Market

When one thinks of the most picturesque European Christmas markets, the first names that usually come to mind are Vienna, Munich, and Prague. Yet, tucked into the medieval streets of Transylvania, a holiday celebration outshines them all in size, atmosphere, and cultural richness. According to Travel + Leisure, the city of Brașov hosts the biggest Christmas market in Romania, and it has become an essential stop for anyone traveling through Central Europe during the festive season.

Why Brașov? A Brief Look at the City

Brașov sits at the foot of the Southern Carpathians, surrounded by dense forests and the imposing Piatra Craiului. The city’s Old Town, with its half‑timbered houses, red‑brick facades, and the iconic Black Church, feels like a living postcard from medieval Europe. The Christmas market’s location—centrally in the “Piața Sfatului” (Council Square) and the adjacent “Piața de Crăciun” (Christmas Square)—means that visitors are surrounded by historic architecture while enjoying modern holiday cheer.

The city is also a cultural hub for Transylvania, home to Romanian, Saxon, and Hungarian communities. This diversity infuses the market with an eclectic mix of music, food, and crafts that reflect the region’s layered heritage.

The Market Itself: Size, Scale, and Spectacle

The Brașov Christmas market opens its gates on the first Friday of November and runs until the first week of January. Every year, it attracts an estimated 2.5 million visitors, making it Romania’s most frequented festive gathering and, arguably, the largest of its kind in the country.

What sets the market apart is both its sheer size and its thematic décor:

• The Giant Christmas Tree – A towering, 36‑meter spruce stands at the heart of the square, draped in lights that change color nightly. The tree, a centerpiece of the market, is a symbol of both hope and unity during the winter months.
• The Ferris Wheel & Ice Rink – A family‑friendly Ferris wheel offers panoramic views of the medieval streets, while a nearby skating rink invites children and adults alike to glide on the shimmering ice.
• Stalls & Bazaars – Over 200 stalls line the cobblestone roads, selling everything from handcrafted wooden toys and silver jewelry to local food specialties and holiday treats.
• Santa & Carollers – Children gather at the statue of Saint Nicholas, while choirs of carolers perform traditional Romanian hymns, providing a soundtrack of faith and festivity.

Crafts & Commerce: Celebrating Romanian Artisanship

The market’s appeal extends beyond its festive lights. Handcrafted goods are a significant draw, with artisans presenting:

• Saxon silverwork – Traditional motifs echo the town’s Germanic past, offering exquisite ornaments and jewelry.
• Pottery & Ceramics – Intricately painted pieces reflect the region’s folk art.
• Woodcarving – Miniature animals, figurines, and ornaments carved from local pine create a unique rustic aesthetic.
• Baking & Food – Stalls offering cozonac (sweet pastry), sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), and ciorbă de perșin (miso soup) provide a taste of home-cooked comfort. Hot mulled wine (vin fiert) and roasted chestnuts offer the quintessential winter indulgence.

The market is not just a shopping destination but a living showcase of Romania’s cultural diversity and artistic heritage.

Cultural Programs & Entertainment

Beyond shopping and dining, the market offers a curated lineup of cultural activities:

• Live Music & Dance – Folk bands perform traditional Romanian tunes, while local dance troupes display the “Hora” circle dance.
• Puppet Shows – Children are entertained by puppet theaters that bring beloved Romanian fairy tales to life.
• The “Christmas Star” Projection – Every evening, a giant star is projected onto the façade of the Black Church, a nod to the biblical nativity story and a symbol of hope.

Tips for Travelers

1. Best Time to Visit – Early morning or late afternoon tend to be less crowded. Mid‑afternoon, especially on weekends, can see crowds swell to thousands per square meter.
2. Getting There – Brașov is well connected by train from Bucharest and by bus from many major European cities. The city center is compact; walking is the most scenic option.
3. Accommodation – Book early; hotels in the Old Town often offer themed rooms and packages. Consider staying in nearby towns like Sibiu or Sighișoara if you prefer a quieter night’s rest.
4. Currency & Payments – While many stalls accept credit cards, carry euros for smaller vendors. The local currency is the Romanian leu, and a tourist discount card can provide savings on admission to local museums.
5. Dress Warmly – Temperatures can drop to 0°C or lower in December. Pack thermal layers, waterproof footwear, and a hat.

The Bigger Picture: A Window into Romanian Hospitality

The Brașov Christmas market’s reputation as Romania’s largest and its popularity among international tourists highlight a broader trend: Romania’s emergence as a year‑round travel destination. While Transylvania is known for its castles and folklore, events like this market showcase the country’s vibrant contemporary culture and hospitable spirit.

For those planning a European itinerary, the Brașov Christmas market is more than a stopover; it’s an experience that melds history, community, and holiday joy. From the glow of its lights to the laughter of children around the Ferris wheel, the market invites visitors to pause, reflect, and savor the simple pleasures of a festive winter. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first‑time visitor to Romania, a day (or an entire weekend) spent strolling through Brașov’s holiday square promises memories that will linger long after the last snowflake has melted.