Brad Travel Guide

Explore the best of Brad in Transylvania with our comprehensive travel guide, featuring top attractions, where to stay, how to get there, and more.


Introduction to Brad

Brad is a small town in Hunedoara County, located in Transylvania, Romania. It is situated in the heart of the Apuseni Mountains, offering visitors a unique experience of natural beauty, exciting outdoor activities, and cultural attractions. The town was founded in the 16th century and has a rich history and cultural heritage. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore the best of Brad, including top attractions, where to stay, how to get there, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Brad

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Brad Castle

Brad Castle is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the town. The castle was built in the 15th century and has a rich history. Visitors can explore the castle’s inner courtyard and towers, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The castle is also home to a museum that features a collection of medieval weapons, armor, and art.

Brad Monastery

The Brad Monastery is a beautiful monastery located on the outskirts of the town. It was built in the 18th century and is known for its beautiful frescoes and iconography. Visitors can attend religious services and explore the monastery’s grounds and gardens.

The Roman Castrum of Castro

The Roman Castrum of Castro is an ancient Roman fortification located just outside Brad. It dates back to the 2nd century AD and was built to protect the Roman Empire’s northern borders. Visitors can explore the ruins of the fortification and learn about the Roman Empire’s history in the region.

Natural Attractions of Brad: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Retezat National Park

Retezat National Park is a stunning natural park located just a short drive from Brad. It is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in Romania, including the Retezat Mountains, glacial lakes, and wildlife. Visitors can hike, bike, and camp in the park, and enjoy the stunning views and fresh mountain air.

Brad Mountains

The Brad Mountains offer visitors a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, and skiing. The mountains are home to several peaks, including Piatra Morgan, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

Dealul cu Dor Nature Reserve

The Dealul cu Dor Nature Reserve is a protected area located near Brad. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, wild boar, and birds of prey. Visitors can hike through the reserve’s forests and meadows, enjoying the peaceful scenery and observing the local flora and fauna.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Brad

Brad has plenty of hiking and biking routes that offer visitors a chance to explore the town’s natural beauty and scenic views. Some popular trails include:

  • The Transalpina Trail: This is a popular hiking trail that runs through Brad and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

  • The Brad-Murenilor Trail: This is a beautiful hiking trail that leads to the Murenilor waterfall, located just outside Brad. The trail is easy to moderate and offers beautiful scenery.

  • The Brad-Revolutiei Trail: This trail leads to the site of the former Revolution of 1848, an important historical event in Romania’s history.

Best Things to Do in Brad: Activities and Tours

Some of the best things to do in Brad include:

  • Visit Brad Castle: This historic castle is a must-visit attraction in the town.

  • Explore the Brad Monastery: The beautiful frescoes and gardens of this monastery offer visitors a peaceful and serene atmosphere.

  • Go hiking or biking: Brad has plenty of hiking and biking trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests.

  • Visit Retezat National Park: This beautiful park is a short drive from Brad and offers visitors a chance to explore some of Romania’s most stunning landscapes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Brad

Day 1: Arrival and check-in at hotel. Day 2: Explore Brad Castle and the historic center of Brad. Day 3: Visit the Brad Monastery and hike the Brad-Murenilor trail. Day 4: Day trip to the Roman Castrum of Castro, one of the best-preserved ancient Roman fortifications in Romania. Day 5: Go hiking or biking in the Brad Mountains. Day 6: Visit Retezat National Park and explore the stunning mountain landscapes. Day 7: Departure from Brad.

Food and Drink Scene of Brad

Must-Try Dishes

Some of the must-try dishes in Brad include:

  • Ciorbă: A traditional Romanian soup made from meat, vegetables, and sour cream.

  • Sarmale: Stuffed cabbage rolls filled with minced meat and rice.

  • Mici: Grilled meatballs made from a mixture of beef, lamb, and pork.

Local Beverages

Some of the local beverages in Brad include:

  • Tuica: A traditional Romanian brandy made from plums.

  • Wine: Transylvania is known for its high-quality wines, and Brad has some excellent local wineries.

  • Beer: Romania has a long brewing tradition, and Brad has several microbreweries that offer a range of local beers.

Where to Stay in Brad: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Brad has a range of accommodation options, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some popular options include:

  • Hotel Castel: This historic hotel is located in the heart of Brad and offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar.

  • Casa Albert: This guesthouse is located just outside Brad and offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

  • Pensiunea Raisa: This guesthouse is located in the historic center of Brad and offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant.

What to Buy in Brad: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring home from Brad include:

  • Handicrafts: Brad is known for its traditional handicrafts, including wood carvings, ceramics, and textiles.

  • Local wine: Transylvania is known for its high-quality wines, and Brad has several local wineries where visitors can purchase bottles to bring home.

  • Tuica: This traditional Romanian brandy makes a great souvenir or gift for friends and family back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Brad

Romania has a rich cultural heritage, and Brad is no exception. Some of the local customs and traditions to keep in mind when visiting include:

  • Respect for elders: In Romania, respect for elders is highly valued, and visitors should show respect to older people they encounter.

  • Greetings: In Romania, it is customary to greet people with a handshake or hug, and visitors should be prepared to greet people in this way.

  • Dress code: Dressing conservatively is important in Romania, especially when visiting churches and other religious sites.

Best Time to Visit Brad

The best time to visit Brad is from May to October, when the weather is mild and pleasant and the outdoor activities are in full swing. Visiting in the winter months can also be enjoyable for those who enjoy skiing and other winter sports.

Do’s and Don’ts of Brad

Do:

  • Explore the town’s natural beauty and outdoor activities.

  • Respect local customs and traditions.

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Ignore dress codes when visiting churches and other religious sites.

  • Disrespect or ignore elderly people.

  • Leave without trying some of the local wines and tuica.

Safety and Health

Safety in Brad

Brad is a safe town for visitors, but it’s important to take basic safety precautions, such as avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping an eye on personal belongings.

Health in Brad

Romania has a high standard of healthcare, and visitors can access medical care in the event of an emergency. It is recommended to obtain travel insurance before visiting Brad.

Getting to Brad: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Brad

The closest airport to Brad is Sibiu International Airport, located approximately 100 km away. Other nearby airports include Cluj-Napoca International Airport and Timisoara Traian Vuia International Airport.

Bus Stations Near Brad

Brad has a bus station that connects it to other towns and cities in Romania. Other nearby bus stations include Hunedoara and Deva.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Brad by renting a car, taking a taxi, or using a private transfer service.

How to Get Around in Brad

The best way to get around Brad is by renting a car or using a taxi. Bikes can also be rented for those who prefer to explore the town on two wheels.

Where to Go Next from Brad: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some nearby destinations and excursions from Brad include:

  • Deva: A historic town located just a short drive from Brad, known for its ancient fortress.

  • Hunedoara: Another historic town with a well-preserved medieval castle.

  • Sarmizegetusa Regia: The ruins of an ancient Dacian fortress and settlement.

Conclusion

Brad is a beautiful town located in the heart of Transylvania, offering visitors a range of natural and cultural attractions. Whether you’re interested in historic castles and monasteries, outdoor activities, or local cuisine and wine, Brad has something to offer. We hope this comprehensive travel guide has given you all the information you need to plan your visit to this charming Romanian town.