Do I need a visa to visit Covasna County?

Romania is in the EU but not yet Schengen; citizens of EU/EEA, USA, Canada, and many others can enter visa-free for up to 90 days. Check current requirements before travel.

What language is mostly spoken?

Hungarian is the majority language, but Romanian is widely understood. English is spoken in tourist offices and by younger people, less so in remote villages.

What currency is used?

Romanian Leu (RON). Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for guesthouses and small shops.

Can I drink tap water?

Tap water is treated and safe in towns, but many people prefer bottled mineral water, which is cheap and abundant.

Are there bears in the area?

Yes, Covasna has one of the highest densities of brown bears in Europe. Always follow local guidance, hike in groups, and never approach or feed them.

What souvenirs should I buy?

Székely woodcarvings, hand-painted pottery, embroidered linens, pálinka (fruit brandy), and local honey.

Is Wi-Fi widely available?

Most hotels, guesthouses, and cafes in towns offer free Wi-Fi. In remote areas, mobile data may be the main option.

Can I get by with public transport?

It's possible between main towns, but for exploring the countryside and nature reserves, a car is highly recommended.

What's the best way to experience the mofetta?

Visit a licensed spa center in Covasna or Băile Tușnad. Sessions are usually 10-20 minutes; consult a doctor beforehand if you have circulatory issues.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes, it’s strongly advised to cover medical emergencies, especially if you plan hiking or adventure activities.

Romania is part of the EU; visa requirements depend on your nationality. Check with the Romanian embassy.

Is English widely spoken?

English is spoken in tourist areas, but Hungarian and Romanian are more common. Learning a few phrases helps.

What is the local cuisine like?

Hearty dishes like goulash, mici (grilled meat rolls), and kürtőskalács (chimney cake) are popular.

What are the mofettes?

Natural carbon dioxide vents used for therapeutic purposes, especially for respiratory issues.

Is Covasna good for hiking?

Yes, the Baraolt Mountains and surrounding areas offer excellent trails for all levels.

Are there any UNESCO sites nearby?

Yes, the fortified churches of Transylvania, like those in Prejmer and Hărman, are within driving distance.

What is the best way to get to Covasna?

The nearest major city is Brașov, about 1.5 hours by car. Buses and trains connect from Brașov to Sfântu Gheorghe.

Is Covasna family-friendly?

Absolutely, with outdoor activities, spa resorts, and cultural sites suitable for all ages.

Are there any health risks?

No major risks, but be cautious of ticks in forests during summer.

Covasna County

Romania, Europe

Covasna County is a STATE in Romania, Europe.

Nestled in the heart of Transylvania, Covasna County is a serene tapestry of rolling hills, mineral-rich spas, and living folklore. Often called the 'Land of Waters,' the region boasts over 1,000 natural springs, the most famous being the therapeutic mofetta (dry carbon dioxide baths) used for cardiovascular wellness. The landscape shifts from the volcanic Ciomad Massif and its stunning twin crater lakes—Lacul Sfânta Ana, the only volcanic lake in Romania—to wildflower meadows dotted with haystacks and wooden Székely gates. Villages like Băile Tușnad and Covasna town have drawn visitors for centuries to their Belle Époque spa architecture and healing waters. The area's Hungarian-speaking Székely culture adds a distinctive flavor: folk costumes, lively dance house evenings, and a cuisine rich in goulash, kürtőskalács (chimney cake), and pálinka. Hiking trails lead through pristine forests of beech and spruce, revealing caves, gorges, and bear-watching hides. It's a place that invites slow travel, whether you're soaking in a thermal pool, cycling the valleys, or meeting local artisans who still practice woodcarving and pottery. Winter turns the county into a quiet wonderland perfect for cross-country skiing and cozy guesthouse stays, while summer offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures and cultural festivals.

Best time to visit Covasna County

May to September offers pleasant temperatures (15–28°C) ideal for hiking, cycling, and festival season. July and August are the warmest and busiest, with vibrant folk events. Late spring (May–June) and early autumn (September) are perfect for fewer crowds, lush nature, and bear-watching. Winter (December–February) transforms the area into a snowy retreat, excellent for thermal spa relaxation, cross-country skiing, and Christmas markets. October brings brilliant fall foliage, while March–April sees the landscape awakening, though some trails may be muddy.

October

Now

Right now

Condition: Rain
Temperature: 9°
Feels like: 8°
Humidity: 95%
Wind: 4 km/h
Precipitation: 0.1 mm

Typical for October

Weather: Cool 4 to 15°C, colorful foliage

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

Stunning autumn colors, mushroom picking; pack warm layers. Many attractions reduce hours.

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

GHV

Brașov-Ghimbav International Airport

International

30 km away

TGM

Târgu Mureș International Airport

International

120 km away

SBZ

Sibiu International Airport

International

130 km away

OTP

Henri Coandă International Airport Bucharest

International

180 km away

CLJ

Cluj-Napoca International Airport

International

220 km away

Getting around

"The most convenient way to explore the scattered villages and natural sites is by rental car, available from airports or larger towns. A network of roads connects the main towns (Sfântu Gheorghe, Târgu Secuiesc, Covasna), but many secondary roads are unpaved. Local buses and maxi-taxis run between major localities, but schedules can be limited, especially on weekends. Trains link Sfântu Gheorghe to Brașov and Bucharest, but won't reach the deeper countryside. Hitchhiking is common and generally safe in rural areas. Taxis are affordable in towns; negotiate fares for longer trips."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

30 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Widely available in accommodations and cafes in towns; spotty in remote areas.

Local SIM

Local SIM cards from Vodafone, Orange, or Digi RCS can be bought at Sfântu Gheorghe shops or airport kiosks for about $5.

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Very low crime; main concerns are wildlife encounters and mountain safety. Common sense precautions apply.

Night safety

8/10

Very low crime; main concerns are wildlife encounters and mountain safety. Common sense precautions apply.

Transport

8/10

Scam risk

9/10

"Covasna is one of Romania's safest regions with very low violent crime. The main risks are natural: encounters with bears in forested areas, slippery trails, and sudden weather changes in the mountains. Always hike prepared, make noise to avoid surprising wildlife, and store food securely. Road conditions are generally good, but watch for horse-drawn carts, livestock, and potholes on secondary roads. Public transport is reliable but infrequent; renting a car is the best way to explore. Take normal precautions with valuables and avoid unlit areas at night."

Police

112

Ambulance

112

Fire

112

Entry and health

Health information

"No specific vaccinations are required beyond routine ones. Ticks are common in forests and meadows from spring to autumn, so insect repellent and checking for bites are recommended to prevent Lyme disease. Tap water is generally safe, but bottled mineral water is widely available. Medical facilities are basic in rural areas; the county hospital in Sfântu Gheorghe and private clinics in larger towns offer decent care. Pharmacies are well-stocked, but carrying a basic first-aid kit is advised. For serious emergencies, medical evacuation to Brașov or Bucharest may be necessary. The therapeutic mofetta treatments should be used only after medical consultation, especially for those with heart conditions."

Culture

Local customs

"The region is predominantly Hungarian-speaking Székely, so 'Jó napot' (Good day) is more common than 'Bună ziua.' Dress modestly when entering churches and monasteries (covered shoulders and knees). In thermal spas, swimwear is standard, but foam or mud baths often require nudity in separate-gender areas. Tipping 10% in restaurants is customary. Greet people with a handshake; close friends may kiss both cheeks. Photography of locals, especially during folk events, is welcome if you ask permission. Respect silence in bear-watching hides. At guesthouses, removing shoes indoors is polite."

Romanian (official)HungarianRomaniGermanUkrainianRomanian

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$5-10 | a hearty local meal at a restaurant costs $5-10

Hotels

$30-60 | a comfortable guesthouse or 3-star hotel ranges $30-60/night

Local transport

$1-2 | local bus ride around $1-2, rental cars from $25/day

Cost notes

Romania offers excellent value; spa treatments and local food are very affordable compared to Western Europe.

Timezone

Europe/Bucharest
Local time 15:20

More facts

Population

210,000

ISO code

RO-15

Frequently Asked Questions

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