Covasna, Romania Travel Guide

Discover Covasna: A Transylvanian haven known for its mineral waters, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.

Nestled in the heart of Transylvania, Covasna is a charming town known for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Often referred to as the 'Land of Mineral Waters,' Covasna boasts numerous natural springs that have been attracting visitors for centuries. The therapeutic properties of these waters are renowned, making it a popular spot for health and wellness tourism. The town is surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains, offering stunning landscapes and numerous outdoor activities. Hiking, mountain biking, and nature walks are just a few of the ways to explore the scenic beauty of Covasna. Don't miss the unique volcanic mud baths and mofette treatments, which are natural carbon dioxide emanations used for therapeutic purposes. Covasna is also steeped in history and culture. Visit the local museums to learn about the region's past, or take a stroll through the town to admire the traditional Székely architecture. The nearby Covasna Fortress and the Fairies' Valley are must-see attractions that offer a glimpse into the area's fascinating folklore and legends.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Covasna.

Bring comfortable hiking shoes to explore the Carpathian Mountains.
Try the local mineral water; it's known for its health benefits.
Visit the volcanic mud baths and mofette treatments for a unique wellness experience.
Check the weather forecast before planning outdoor activities.
Learn a few phrases in Romanian or Hungarian; locals appreciate the effort.

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Explore Covasna: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Covasna

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Valea Zimbrilor

Explore the beauty of Valea Zimbrilor, a nature preserve and zoo in Romania, home to diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.

4.6

Balvanyos Resort

Discover the serene beauty and wellness offerings at Balvanyos Resort, a perfect getaway in Romania's Turia region.

4.2

The Devil's Pond

Discover the captivating beauty and intriguing legends of The Devil's Pond in Covasna, Romania – a serene escape for nature lovers and adventurers.

4.3

Cheia Monastery

Experience the serenity and beauty of Cheia Monastery, a spiritual retreat nestled in the breathtaking Carpathian Mountains of Romania.

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Best landmarks in Covasna

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Elizabeth Park

Explore the tranquil beauty of Elizabeth Park in Sfântu Gheorghe, a perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation for every tourist.

4.6

The Devil's Pond

Discover the enchanting beauty of the Devil's Pond in Covasna, Romania - a unique natural phenomenon steeped in folklore and breathtaking landscapes.

4.3

“Lőrincz Zsigmond” Partie Ski Covasna

Experience the thrill of skiing and the beauty of nature at Lőrincz Zsigmond Ski Resort in Covasna, Romania's ultimate winter paradise.

4.1

TURISM COVASNA S.A.

Experience the serene beauty and wellness of Covasna, Romania, where nature meets relaxation in a picturesque mountain setting.

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Best restaurants in Covasna

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Hotel Clermont

Discover tranquility at Hotel Clermont in Covasna - where luxury meets nature's beauty.

4.6

Hotel TTS Covasna

Discover serenity at Hotel TTS Covasna - where comfort meets nature in the heart of Romania.

4.6

Hotel Căprioara

Experience serenity at Hotel Căprioara in Covasna, where nature meets comfort for an unforgettable getaway.

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Lidl

Explore Lidl in Covasna for fresh produce, local delicacies, and budget-friendly shopping that captures the essence of Romanian flavors.

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Best bars in Covasna

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The Devil's Pond

Explore the enchanting Devil's Pond in Covasna, Romania, where nature meets folklore in a serene and breathtaking setting.

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Hotel TTS Covasna

Experience ultimate relaxation at Hotel TTS Covasna, a perfect blend of comfort, nature, and exquisite dining in Romania's scenic landscapes.

4.6

Jazz Bistro & Winery

Discover the perfect blend of culinary delights and live jazz at Jazz Bistro & Winery in Târgu Secuiesc, where every meal is a celebration.

4.6

Restaurant Keops

Discover the exquisite flavors of Covasna at Restaurant Keops – a culinary experience that blends tradition with modernity.

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CLUB AFTER MOON

Dance the night away at Club After Moon, Târgu Secuiesc's top disco club, where vibrant beats and a lively atmosphere await every night.

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Kult-Űr

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Covasna at Kult-Űr, where music, dance, and cultural exchange come alive in an unforgettable setting.

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The Devil's Pond

Explore the serene beauty of The Devil's Pond in Covasna, Romania, a perfect escape into nature with breathtaking landscapes and tranquil waters.

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Sepsi Value Centre

Discover the vibrant Sepsi Value Centre in Sfântu Gheorghe, your ultimate shopping destination for local and international delights.

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Lidl

Discover quality groceries at Lidl in Covasna, Romania: your trusted supermarket for fresh foods and baked goods at affordable prices.

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PENNY

Explore local flavors and fresh produce at PENNY Supermarket in Covasna, a must-visit for culinary enthusiasts.

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Explore Covasna on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Covasna, mapped for you.

Covasna Essentials

Covasna is located in the eastern part of Romania, within the Carpathian Mountains. The nearest major airport is Henri Coandă International Airport in Bucharest, approximately 200 kilometers away. From Bucharest, you can take a train or a bus to Brașov, and then a local bus or taxi to Covasna. The journey from Bucharest to Covasna typically takes around 4 to 5 hours by road or rail.
Covasna is a small town, and many attractions are within walking distance. Local taxis are available and reasonably priced. For those wishing to explore the surrounding areas, renting a car can be a convenient option. Public buses operate within Covasna and connect to nearby towns and villages. Bicycles can also be rented for a more eco-friendly way to explore the town.
The official currency in Romania is the Romanian Leu (RON). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops in Covasna, but it's advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Covasna for cash withdrawals.
Covasna is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always advisable.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Covasna has a local police station and medical facilities available. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available where over-the-counter medications can be purchased.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Cover your head when entering churches and monasteries. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality as it is considered impolite.
To experience Covasna like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Romanian goods. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and eager to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the Mocănița steam train for a scenic ride through the mountains. Also, explore the local spas and mineral springs, which are well-known for their therapeutic properties.

When is the best time to visit Covasna?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Covasna

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Covasna. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloBună
  [Boo-nuh]
- GoodbyeLa revedere
  [Lah reh-veh-deh-reh]
- YesDa
  [Dah]
- NoNu
  [Noo]
- Please/You're welcomeTe rog/ Cu plăcere
  [Teh rog/ Koo plah-cheh-reh]
- Thank youMulțumesc
  [Mool-tzoo-mesk]
- Excuse me/SorryScuză-mă/Îmi pare rău
  [Skoo-zah-mah/ Uhm pah-reh rah-oo]
- How are you?Ce mai faci?
  [Cheh my fahch?]
- Fine. And you?Bine. Și tu?
  [Bee-neh. Shee too?]
- Do you speak English?Vorbești engleză?
  [Vor-besht eng-leh-zah?]
- I don't understandNu înțeleg
  [Noo uhn-tzeh-leg]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAș dori să văd meniul, vă rog
  [Ash doh-ree sah vehd men-yool, vah rog]
- I don't eat meatNu mănânc carne
  [Noo mah-nank kar-neh]
- Cheers!Noroc!
  [No-rok]
- I would like to pay, pleaseAș dori să plătesc, vă rog
  [Ash doh-ree sah plah-tesk, vah rog]
- Help!Ajutor!
  [Ah-joo-tor]
- Go away!Du-te!
  [Doo-teh]
- Call the Police!Sună Poliția!
  [Soo-nah Poh-lee-tsee-ah]
- Call a doctor!Sună un doctor!
  [Soo-nah oon dohk-tor]
- I'm lostM-am pierdut
  [Mahm pyehr-doot]
- I'm illSunt bolnav
  [Soont bol-nahv]
- I'd like to buy...Aș dori să cumpăr...
  [Ash doh-ree sah koom-par]
- I'm just lookingMă uit doar
  [Muh oo-eet doar]
- How much is it?Cât costă?
  [Koot koh-stah?]
- That's too expensiveAsta e prea scump
  [As-tah eh preh-ah skoomp]
- Can you lower the price?Poți să reduci prețul?
  [Pots sah reh-dooch preh-tsool?]
- What time is it?Cât e ceasul?
  [Koot eh chah-sool?]
- It's one o'clockE ora unu
  [Eh oh-rah oo-noo]
- Half past (10)Jumătate peste (10)
  [Joo-mah-tah-teh pes-teh (10)]
- MorningDimineața
  [Dee-mee-neh-ah-tsah]
- AfternoonDupă-amiaza
  [Doo-pah ah-mee-ah-zah]
- EveningSeara
  [Sear-ah]
- YesterdayIeri
  [Yair]
- TodayAstăzi
  [As-tahz]
- TomorrowMâine
  [Mih-neh]
- 11
  [Unu]
- 22
  [Doi]
- 33
  [Trei]
- 44
  [Patru]
- 55
  [Cinci]
- 66
  [Șase]
- 77
  [Șapte]
- 88
  [Opt]
- 99
  [Nouă]
- 1010
  [Zece]
- Where's a/the...?Unde e...?
  [Oon-deh eh...?]
- What's the address?Care e adresa?
  [Kah-reh eh ah-dreh-sah?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Îmi poți arăta (pe hartă)?
  [Uhm pots ah-rah-tah (peh har-tah)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Când e următorul (autobuz)?
  [Kund eh oor-mah-tor-ool (ow-toh-booz)?]
- A ticket (to ....)Un bilet (la ....)
  [Oon bee-let (lah....)]

History of Covasna

Covasna's history dates back to ancient times when the region was inhabited by the Dacians, a fierce and independent people who thrived before the Roman conquest. Archaeological evidence, including pottery and fortified settlements, showcases the advanced craftsmanship and defensive strategies of the Dacians in this area.
After the Dacians were conquered by the Romans in 106 AD, Covasna became part of the Roman province of Dacia. The Romans left behind remnants of their civilization, including roads, fortifications, and settlements. The influence of Roman culture and infrastructure can still be traced in the region's archaeological sites.
During the medieval period, Covasna was an integral part of Transylvania, a region known for its strategic importance and multicultural population. The region was under the rule of Hungarian kings and later became part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Medieval castles, churches, and villages in Covasna reflect the architectural styles and cultural influences from this era.
Covasna is home to a significant population of Székelys, a Hungarian ethnic group with a distinct cultural identity. The Székelys have a rich heritage, including unique traditions, language, and folklore. The region is dotted with Székely gates, traditional wooden gates adorned with intricate carvings, and the annual Székely festivals celebrate their vibrant culture.
The modern history of Covasna is marked by the unification of Romania in 1918, when Transylvania, including Covasna, became part of Greater Romania. This period brought significant political and social changes to the region, as it integrated into the Romanian state. Historical buildings and monuments from the early 20th century reflect the architectural trends and nationalistic movements of this time.
Covasna is renowned for its natural beauty and therapeutic mineral springs, which have been attracting visitors for centuries. The town of Covasna, often called the 'Land of Mineral Waters,' is famous for its health resorts and spa treatments. The unique mofetta, a natural dry carbon dioxide bath, is a highlight of the region's wellness culture.
Covasna, like much of Romania, experienced significant upheaval during World War II and the ensuing communist period. The region saw occupation, resistance, and later the imposition of communist policies. Industrialization and collectivization under the communist regime left a lasting impact on the local economy and society.
Today, Covasna is a blend of historical legacy and modern development. The region continues to preserve its cultural heritage while embracing tourism and economic growth. Visitors can explore historic sites, enjoy traditional Székely cuisine, and experience the natural beauty that has long defined Covasna.