One of the key aspects of a budget weekend in Brasov is finding affordable but comfortable accommodations. Fortunately, the city offers some great options for frugal travelers.

Centrum House Hostel is an excellent choice for those who appreciate a central location and a low price. Located at Strada Republicii 58, the hostel offers dormitory beds starting at around 112 lei per night (as of 2023). Guests praise the cleanliness of the rooms and bathrooms, as well as the hot water. The hostel also offers free slippers, which is a nice bonus. The location is ideal - close to most museums and city attractions. The downside may be the noise at night due to the surrounding bars, but that's the price you sometimes have to pay for a central location.

An alternative is Jugendstube Hostel Brasov, located at Strada Michael Weiss 13. This hostel also enjoys a great location in Brasov's historic center. Guests praise the comfortable beds, spacious rooms and cleanliness. The hostel also offers a shared kitchen and free coffee/tea. Prices are competitive, although they may be slightly higher than at the Centrum House Hostel. Noteworthy is the friendly atmosphere and helpful staff, with receptionist Angi especially praised.

For those looking for something intermediate, Bedstage at Strada Republicii 8 may be a good compromise. The hostel offers low prices and an excellent location, although some guests have reported problems with noise and the hardness of the beds. A plus is the nice terrace where you can eat and relax.

Comparing these options:

• Centrum House Hostel offers the lowest prices and a very central location, but can be noisy at night.
• Jugendstube Hostel Brasov has slightly higher prices, but offers a better atmosphere and more spacious rooms.
• Bedstage is in the middle on price, but can have problems with bed comfort.

When choosing accommodation, consider your priorities - whether the lowest price, comfort or location is more important. Regardless of your choice, any of these options will save you a significant amount of money compared to traditional hotels, leaving you with more resources to explore and experience Brasov's charms.

Brasov offers many attractions that can be visited for free or for a small fee, which is great news for thrifty travelers. One of the most impressive free attractions is Mount Tâmpa, which dominates the city's skyline.

Mount Tâmpa (Strada Poiana Soarelui 237) is a must-visit in Brasov. Entrance to the mountain is completely free, although a cable car (for a fee) can be used for convenience. The views from the top are absolutely spectacular - you can enjoy a panoramic view of the entire city and the surrounding area. It's an ideal place to take souvenir photos, especially at the famous 'Brasov' sign. The route to the top is quite easy and pleasant, making it accessible to most tourists. It is advisable to plan the trip on a sunny day to fully appreciate the sweeping views.

Another great option for a budget tour is Solomon's Rocks (Prund-Schei). It's a picturesque rock park, perfect for a relaxing walk or picnic. Admission is free, and the site offers more than a dozen spots with benches and tables where you can host a barbecue. This is a great option for families with children or groups of friends. In addition, the park offers biking and hiking trails, as well as a spring with drinking water. Solomon's Rocks is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy nature without spending a dime.

Comparing the two attractions:

• Mount Tâmpa offers spectacular views of the city and is more physically demanding.
• Solomon's Rocks is a quieter option, ideal for relaxing and picnicking, with easier access.

Both attractions are free, making them ideal for budget travelers. However, it's worth remembering to wear appropriate footwear and bring water, especially when climbing Mount Tâmpa.

In addition to these main attractions, Brasov offers many other budget sightseeing options. Walking around the old town, admiring the architecture and visiting local parks costs nothing, and allows you to feel the true atmosphere of the city. It's also worth checking for free cultural events or festivals during your visit.

For outdoor enthusiasts, The old road of Poenia route is an excellent option for a free excursion. This scenic path offers beautiful views and is accessible to most tourists. It's a great opportunity to explore the surrounding nature and take some souvenir photos.

Remember that the key to a budget tour is good organization and flexibility. It's a good idea to check the opening hours of free attractions in advance and plan your route to make the most of your time and save on transportation. Brasov is a city that you can get to know very well by walking around, which additionally allows you to save on public transport tickets.

To fully enjoy a budget weekend in Brasov, it is worth knowing some practical tips for frugal shopping and getting around the city.

If you're in need of sports or outdoor gear, Allmountain Republicii (Strada Republicii 30) or Allmountain Star (Strada Nicolae Bălcescu Nr. 62) are worth a look. Both stores offer a wide selection of products, often at attractive prices. Allmountain Republicii is known for its good customer service and fast returns. Allmountain Star, on the other hand, offers interesting discounts and has an excellent location. Comparing the two stores, Allmountain Republicii seems to have a better reputation for customer service, while Allmountain Star may offer more competitive prices.

For those looking for more affordable sports equipment options, Decathlon (Str. Zaharia Stancu 2A) is a great alternative. The store offers a wide assortment at affordable prices, although some customers report problems with store organization and customer service.

If you are looking for souvenirs or local products, the Annapurna store (Strada Republicii 23) is worth a visit. This place is known for its high quality products and excellent customer service. Although the prices may be a bit higher than in regular souvenir stores, the quality of the products makes up for the difference.

Getting around Brasov:

1. On foot: Most of the main attractions in the city center are within walking distance. This is not only the most economical option, but also the best for exploring the city's charming nooks and crannies.

2. Public transportation: If you need to get further afield, city buses are a cheap and efficient option. Single-pass tickets cost about 2-3 lei (as of 2023).

3 - Bicycles: Some hostels offer bicycle rentals, which can be a great alternative to public transportation.

Practical tips:

1. Water: Tap water in Brasov is drinkable. Take a reusable bottle with you and refill it at the hostel or public springs.

2 Food: Instead of eating in restaurants, buy products from local stores and prepare your meals in the hostel kitchen. This can save a significant portion of your budget.

3. Free tours: Check if there are free guided tours (free walking tours) during your stay. This is a great way to learn about the city and its history without spending money.

4 Discount cards: Ask your hostel about tourist or discount cards that may offer discounts to museums and attractions.

5. Plan ahead: Check in advance the opening hours of attractions and any free admission days or times.

Remember that the key to a successful budget weekend in Brasov is a balance between saving money and enjoying the city's attractions. Don't completely forgo local delicacies or souvenirs - just choose wisely and prioritize your spending. Brasov is a city that is fantastic to visit even on a limited budget, enjoying its beauty, history and the hospitality of its people.