Christmas Markets in Romania
The best Christmas markets in Romania are in Sibiu and Brașov, in the historic squares of Transylvania, followed by Bucharest and Cluj-Napoca. Most open from late November to early January, with wooden stalls, lights, mulled wine and carols. They are a good excuse to combine city life with the cultural tours and museums we recommend.
Below you will find what makes each market special, what to eat and drink and some tips to plan your visit.
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Key facts
- The best-known Christmas markets are in Sibiu (Grand Square) and Brașov (Council Square).
- Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timișoara and Craiova also hold their own markets.
- Most markets run from late November to early January; exact dates change every year.
- Typical treats: mulled wine, chimney cake (kürtőskalács), grilled sausages, sarmale and cozonac.
- Go in the late afternoon, when the lights come on, and dress for temperatures around or below freezing.
The Best Christmas Markets in Romania at a Glance
Every big city has its own market, but a few stand out for their setting and atmosphere. Locations and dates are set by each city every year, so check the official pages before you travel.
| City | Where | Why go |
|---|---|---|
| Sibiu | Grand Square (Piața Mare) | The best-known market, in a medieval square |
| Brașov | Council Square (Piața Sfatului) | Mountain backdrop, easy to combine with castles |
| Bucharest | Changes over the years, often in the city centre | The capital, with the most flight connections |
| Cluj-Napoca | Usually Union Square (Piața Unirii) | Lively university city in northern Transylvania |
| Craiova | City centre | Known for its large light displays |
Sibiu: Romania’s Most Famous Christmas Market
Sibiu’s market fills the Grand Square, surrounded by baroque façades and the Council Tower. It is the market most often recommended: rows of wooden stalls with crafts and food, music, lights and a festive atmosphere that spreads to the nearby streets.
Sibiu is compact and walkable, so one or two nights are enough to enjoy the market and the old town. It also works as a base for exploring southern Transylvania.
Tours to Combine with the Christmas Markets
A day trip to Sinaia and Brașov from Bucharest, a 2-day trip through Transylvania and a food tour in Bucharest to taste Romanian dishes. Check the dates of each tour for your trip.
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Viator
Sinaia and Brașov in One Day
A day trip from Bucharest to the mountain resort of Sinaia, home of Peleș Castle, and the medieval old town of Brașov.
* Prices are indicative and subject to seasonal variations or changes applied by the official provider. The exact price and availability are confirmed on the booking platform.
Viator
2-Day Transylvania from Bucharest: Brașov, Bran, Sighișoara
A 2-day trip from Bucharest through Transylvania: the old town of Brașov, Bran Castle (“Dracula’s Castle”) and the medieval citadel of Sighișoara.
* Prices are indicative and subject to seasonal variations or changes applied by the official provider. The exact price and availability are confirmed on the booking platform.
Viator
Bucharest Food Lovers Tour: Markets, Tastings & Hidden Spots
A small-group food walking tour of Bucharest with a local guide: traditional markets, tastings and hidden corners of the old mahalale neighbourhoods.
* Prices are indicative and subject to seasonal variations or changes applied by the official provider. The exact price and availability are confirmed on the booking platform.
* Prices are indicative and subject to seasonal variations or changes applied by the official provider. The exact price and availability are confirmed on the booking platform.
Brașov: A Market at the Foot of the Mountains
In Brașov the market sets up in Council Square, next to the Black Church and with Mount Tâmpa rising above the rooftops. With snow, it is one of the most photogenic scenes in the country.
Brașov is also the easiest market to combine with other winter plans: Bran, Peleș and Râșnov are close by, and Poiana Brașov is just above the city for a day on the slopes.
Bucharest and Other Cities
Bucharest has a large central market every year, although its location has changed over time, so check the city’s announcements before you go. As the capital has the most flights, it is a practical start or end point, and organised day trips from Bucharest can take you to Brașov and the castles.
In Cluj-Napoca the market is usually set up in Union Square, under St Michael’s Church, while Craiova in the south has become known for its large light displays. Timișoara, in the west, also holds a popular market.
What to Eat and Drink at a Romanian Christmas Market
Food is half the fun. These are the classics you will find at most stalls:
- Vin fiert: hot mulled wine with cinnamon and orange peel.
- Kürtőskalács (chimney cake): a sweet, spiral-shaped pastry baked over embers, often coated with sugar, nuts or cinnamon.
- Grilled sausages and mici: grilled meat served with mustard and bread.
- Sarmale: cabbage rolls stuffed with meat and rice, the classic Romanian Christmas dish.
- Cozonac: a sweet bread filled with walnuts or poppy seeds, eaten all over the holidays.
Tips for Visiting the Christmas Markets
A little planning helps you enjoy the markets at their best:
- Check the dates: each city announces its opening and closing dates every year, usually a few weeks before.
- Go in the late afternoon: the lights come on early, as the sun sets around 4:30 to 5 pm in December.
- Avoid weekend evenings if you prefer fewer people.
- Dress warmly: temperatures are often around or below freezing. Read our guide to Romania in winter for what to pack.
- Carry some cash for small stalls, although many accept cards.
Christmas Markets in Romania: FAQ
When do the Christmas markets in Romania open?
Most open from late November to early January. Each city announces its exact dates every year, usually a few weeks in advance.
Which is the best Christmas market in Romania?
Sibiu is the best known, in the medieval Grand Square. Brașov is a close second, with the Black Church and the mountains as a backdrop.
Is there a Christmas market in Bucharest?
Yes, Bucharest holds a large central market every year. Its location has changed over time, so check the city’s announcements before you go.
What should I eat at a Romanian Christmas market?
Try vin fiert (mulled wine), kürtőskalács (chimney cake), grilled sausages, sarmale and cozonac, the sweet bread of the holidays.
Can I visit Brașov’s Christmas market and the castles on the same trip?
Yes. Bran, Peleș and Râșnov are close to Brașov, so two or three days are enough to combine the market with the castles.
How cold is it at the Christmas markets?
Temperatures are often around or below freezing, especially in the evening and in Transylvania. Wear a warm coat, hat, gloves and boots with good grip.
