Sfântu Gheorghe (Covasna) Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Sfântu Gheorghe (Covasna) in Transylvania with our comprehensive travel guide featuring top attractions, hiking/biking routes, food scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Sfântu Gheorghe (Covasna)

Sfântu Gheorghe (Covasna) is a town located in Covasna County, in Szeklerland, Transylvania. It is known for its thermal springs, beautiful nature, and rich cultural heritage. The town is home to a mixed population of Romanians, Hungarians, and Roma, which contributes to its diverse cultural and gastronomical offerings.

List of Places to Visit in Sfântu Gheorghe (Covasna)

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Covasna County Museum of History and Art
  • The Roman-Catholic Church of Sfântu Gheorghe
  • The Szekler National Museum

Natural Attractions of Sfântu Gheorghe (Covasna): Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Bear Lake (Lacul Ursu)
  • The Thermal Spa (Băile Balvanyos)
  • The Bálványos Castle Ruins
  • The Madarasi Hargita Peak
  • The Baile Tusnad Resort and Pine Forest

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sfântu Gheorghe (Covasna)

  • Madarasi Hargita Peak Hiking Trail
  • Baile Tusnad to the Red Lake Biking Route
  • The route around the Bear Lake

Best Things to Do in Sfântu Gheorghe (Covasna): Activities and Tours

  • Experience the thermal spa and healing waters
  • Attend a traditional Hungarian folk music concert
  • Participate in a guided tour of the Szekler region
  • Take a scenic drive through the Carpathian Mountains
  • Go horseback riding in the forest

Week-Long Itinerary for Sfântu Gheorghe (Covasna)

  • Day 1: Visit the Covasna County Museum of History and Art, and explore the town’s historic landmarks
  • Day 2: Experience the thermal spa and natural hot springs of Băile Balvanyos
  • Day 3: Go hiking in the Madarasi Hargita Peak, and enjoy the panoramic views of Szeklerland
  • Day 4: Take a scenic drive through the Carpathian Mountains, and stop at the Red Lake and Bicaz Gorge
  • Day 5: Explore the historic ruins of the Bálványos Castle
  • Day 6: Go horseback riding in the forest, and attend a traditional Hungarian folk music concert in the evening
  • Day 7: Take a guided tour of the Szekler region and learn about the local history and culture

Food and Drink Scene of Sfântu Gheorghe (Covasna)

Must-Try Dishes

  • Goulash soup
  • Székelykáposzta (sauerkraut cooked with pork)
  • Cholent (potato stew with smoked meat)

Local Beverages

  • Palinka (fruit brandy)
  • Csíki Beer

Where to Stay in Sfântu Gheorghe (Covasna): Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Balneo Resort Covasna
  • Pensiunea Vila Kozma
  • Hotel Castroland

What to Buy in Sfântu Gheorghe (Covasna): Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handwoven textiles and embroideries
  • Leather goods and shoes
  • Fruit brandy (Palinka)

Local Culture and Customs of Sfântu Gheorghe (Covasna)

The town is home to a mixed population of Romanians, Hungarians, and Roma, which contributes to its diverse cultural offerings. The region is known for its traditional Hungarian music and folk dancing. Visitors can experience local customs during festivals, such as the Sfântu Gheorghe Days Festival in April and the Harvest Festival in September.

Best Time to Visit Sfântu Gheorghe (Covasna)

The best time to visit Sfântu Gheorghe (Covasna) is from May to September, when the weather is mild and there are plenty of outdoor activities available. The town is also worth visiting during the winter months, when visitors can go skiing in the nearby resorts.

Do’s and Don’ts of Sfântu Gheorghe (Covasna)

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Try traditional foods and beverages
  • Visit local markets and buy handmade souvenirs

Don’t:

  • Disrespect religious sites
  • Leave litter or damage natural sites
  • Take photographs of people without their permission

Safety and Health

Safety in Sfântu Gheorghe (Covasna)

Sfântu Gheorghe (Covasna) is a safe town for tourists, with low levels of crime. Visitors should be cautious when using public transportation and avoid walking alone at night.

Health in Sfântu Gheorghe (Covasna)

Visitors should be aware of the effects of altitude on their health when visiting Sfântu Gheorghe (Covasna). The town is located at an altitude of over 600 meters above sea level. Due to the high mineral content of the thermal waters, visitors with certain health conditions should consult with a physician before bathing in the hot springs.

Getting to Sfântu Gheorghe (Covasna): Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sfântu Gheorghe (Covasna)

The nearest airport to Sfântu Gheorghe (Covasna) is the Targu-Mures International Airport, which is located about 50 km away.

Bus Stations Near Sfântu Gheorghe (Covasna)

Sfântu Gheorghe (Covasna) is well-connected by bus to major cities in Romania and Hungary. The town has one main bus station, located in the city center.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Sfântu Gheorghe (Covasna) by train or by renting a car.

How to Get Around in Sfântu Gheorghe (Covasna)

The town is small enough to explore on foot, but visitors can also rent a bike or a car to get around. Taxis are also available for hire.

Where to Go Next from Sfântu Gheorghe (Covasna): Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Brasov, where visitors can see the famous Bran Castle and the Black Church
  • Sighisoara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and birthplace of Vlad the Impaler
  • The Praid Salt Mine, where visitors can see unique underground salt formations

Conclusion

Sfântu Gheorghe (Covasna) is a unique town in the heart of Transylvania, offering visitors a chance to experience traditional Hungarian culture, thermal spas, and beautiful natural scenery. Whether you go for the food, the outdoor activities, or the sheer beauty of the region, Sfântu Gheorghe (Covasna) has something to offer everyone.