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Sibiu Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 1, 2023

Aerial view of Old Town in Sibiu, Romania

Cobblestone streets, ancient town squares, castle walls, and historic buildings — Sibiu has everything you want in an old European city but without any of the crowds found elsewhere.

Sibiu is located in the historical region of Transylvania and was the capital of the region at various points throughout history. First settled in the 12th century, by the 14th century the city had become an important trading center. Over the centuries, Sibiu has been part of the Kingdom of Hungary, the Transylvanian Principality, the Austrian Empire, the Austro-Hungarian Empire, and since 1989 has been a part of Romania.

Sibiu is also the site of many firsts for Romania: the country’s first hospital, first school, first pharmacy, first museum, and first brewery all opened here.

Buildings from all these varying time periods still stand, making Sibiu a picturesque and interesting place to visit. In fact, the city has been nicknamed “The City with Eyes” because of the unique Baroque eyebrow dormers found on many of the buildings.

This travel guide to Sibiu will help you plan a fantastic trip to this incredible destination!

Table of Contents

  • Things to See and Do
  • Typical Costs
  • Suggested Budget
  • Money-Saving Tips
  • Where to Stay
  • How to Get Around
  • How to Stay Safe
  • Best Places to Book Your Trip
  • Related Blogs on Sibiu

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Sibiu

People walking through a square in the historic Old Town in Sibiu, Romania

1. Visit the Brukenthal National Museum

Opened in 1817, this was the first museum in Romania. It is composed of six different buildings located around the city, though the main complex is in Brukenthal Palace. The art galleries in the palace have over 1,000 paintings, sculptures, books, and woven items, with some dating back to the 15th century. Admission varies depending on which museum you’re visiting. Admission to the Brukenthal Palace and European Art Gallery is 39 RON.

2. Stroll through Huet Square

Also known as the Piata Huet, this 12th-century square is home to a series of Gothic-style buildings. It’s small, colorful, and often overlooked, making it a nice place to get away from the crowds and have some quiet time to explore. The grand 14th-century Lutheran Cathedral of Saint Mary is located in the center of the square. You can go inside for 10 RON and climb the lookout tower for another 10 RON. Every Wednesday during the summer, there are organ concerts here.

3. Explore the Old Town

The Old Town was built by German settlers and merchants during the Middle Ages and grew over the years to encompass buildings of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. There are secluded medieval alleys, centuries-old buildings, and historic churches dating back to the 14th century. Huet Square is in this part of the town as is the Bridge of Lies (more on that below).

4. Trek the Cindrel Mountains

The Cindrel Mountains, part of the larger Southern Carpathian range, are just 16 kilometers (10 miles) from Sibiu. You can go for a day or arrange multi-day trek tours. It’s not the easiest place to hike, but if you love the outdoors and are tired of cities, this is the place to go hiking.

5. Explore the Citadel of Sibiu

During the Middle Ages, this citadel was one of the most fortified in all of Europe. Built in the 12th century, many of the towers and bastions are well-preserved, though the highlight is the passage between the upper and lower section of the fort. Today, it’s a park that is free to walk through.

Other Things to See and Do in Sibiu

1. take in the sibiu jazz festival.

Held for a week every year, this festival began in the 1970s and is a popular event for jazz fans across Europe. There are usually over 20 bands/artists playing in a few venues around the city so there’s a good variety to choose from. Tickets are free too!

2. Unwind at Balea Lake

Located 90 minutes from Sibiu, Balea Lake makes for a worthwhile day trip from the city. Part of the Fagaras Mountains (often called the “Transylvanian Alps”), many people come here to hike or to ski during the winter (there is even an ice hotel built here in the winter). There are marked trails if you want to hike, offering both five-hour and nine-hour routes to some of the nearby summits. You can take a bus here for around 90 RON.

3. Visit Radu Stancu State Theatre

This venue is the biggest (and arguably most important) artistic center in the city. Founded in 1788 and at its current location since 1949, the theater hosts productions throughout the week (check the website for detailed listings). While most productions are in Romanian, some English productions do occur. You can buy show tickets online or at the theater at least 30 minutes before the starting time. Tickets are usually around 30 RON.

4. Explore the open-air museum

The ASTRA National Museum Complex, the largest open-air museum in Europe, has 96 acres of restored buildings and homes from throughout Romania’s history. There’s an old mill, water wheels, a wooden ferry, and other traditional buildings that you can see and learn about. The museum lies a couple of kilometers south of Sibiu. In the summer, there are often musical events and festivals held here as well. Admission is 35 RON per person.

5. Learn about local history

The Sibiu History Museum is located within the 16th-century Neo-Renaissance City Hall and offers a deep look at the city’s past. Opened in 1895, it was renovated in 2007 and houses relics as far back as the Neolithic and Roman periods. There’s also a collection of artifacts from the Middle Ages and Baroque periods, as well as exhibits on minerals, ecology, animals, and paleontology. While the museum isn’t huge, I found it informative. Admission is 30 RON.

6. Admire the orthodox cathedral

The Holy Trinity Cathedral in Sibiu is the second-largest orthodox cathedral in the country. It was built in 1904 and modeled after the Byzantine-style Hagia Sofia cathedral in Istanbul. The exterior is done in red and yellow brick while the interior is covered with colorful frescoes (virtually all of the massive dome and walls are covered in paintings and frescoes. It’s super colorful and ornate). Admission is free, though donations are welcomed.

7. Take a day trip to Ocna Sibiului

Ocna Sibiului is a small town in the area of Sibiu known for its saline lakes and their purported healing properties. Just 10 kilometers (6 miles) from Sibiu, you can spend some time wandering the town, admiring the narrow roads and historic buildings before going swimming in the nearby lakes. If you want to splash out, visit one of the spas for a relaxing afternoon. You can reach the area via train or bus (for under 10 RON) or take a taxi for around 40 RON each way.

8. Cross the Bridge of Lies

There are many different legends as to why this narrow iron bridge earned its nickname. The most popular one states that if you tell a lie on the bridge, it will make noises as you walk, and may even collapse if the lie is big enough. The bridge was rebuilt in the late 19th century on the site of an old wooden bridge. The new version is Romania’s first cast iron bridge (and only the second in all of Europe).

9. Take a stroll down Nicolae Balcescu Street

This is the main pedestrian shopping street, leading away from one of the city’s large squares, Piata Mare. This thoroughfare dates to the late 15th century, though most of the buildings lining the street are from the 19th century. Today it is lined with colorful buildings and shops, making it a good place to snap some photos, window shop, and people watch.

10. Climb the Turnul Sfatului (Council Tower)

This 13th-century tower offers the best view over the city. The climb is fairly short (as towers go), and it only costs 2 RON to go up. There are usually temporary exhibitions on the way up as well. Just keep in mind that the staircase is quite narrow, so it’s not the best choice for the claustrophobic.

  For more information on other cities in Romania, check out these guides:

  • Brasov Travel Guide
  • Cluj-Napoca Travel Guide

Sibiu Travel Costs

People walking through cobble-stoned streets in Sibiu, Romania

Hostel prices – A bed in a 4-8 bed dorm costs around 45-55 RON per night, while a private double room is around 120 RON. Wi-Fi and lockers are standard, though no hostels include free breakfast.

Camping is possible in the area but stick to dedicated campgrounds. Wild camping is legal but theft is a bit common so it’s much safer to camp in designated areas. Prices start at 27 RON per night for a basic plot for two people without electricity.

Budget hotel prices – Budget hotels cost 120-155 RON per night. They generally include free Wi-Fi, TV, and some even include free breakfast.

Airbnb is also available in Sibiu, with a private room costing 100-120 RON per night while an entire home/apartment costs around 130-160 RON per night.

Food – Romanian cuisine is hearty, influenced by nearby Hungary and other Eastern European neighbors. Stews and sausages are common staples, with garlic sausage being especially popular. Sour soup, lamb, meatballs, and meat pies are other popular traditional meals.

A dish at an informal, traditional restaurant costs 25-35 RON, though the touristy places near the central square are a bit more expensive. Soup is a good option for saving money, as it costs around 17-25 RON and is pretty hearty (it also typically comes with bread).

A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs closer to 80 RON for a three-course meal. A burger or pasta dish is 35-40 RON while seafood or steak dishes typically cost 75-100 RON.

Fast food (think McDonald’s) costs around 25-30 RON for a combo meal, 6-9 RON for a burger or hot dog, and 30-35 RON for takeout pizza. Takeaway sandwiches are around 20 RON.

A domestic beer out at a restaurant or bar costs around 6-10 RON, a glass of local wine is 15-18 RON while a bottle is 60-100 RON, and cocktails start at 20-35 RON. A cappuccino/latte is around 10-12 RON, a tea is 10 RON, and a bottle of water is 5-8 RON.

If you buy your own groceries and cook your meals, expect to pay about 140-190 RON per week for staples that include pasta, vegetables, chicken, and other basic foods. Save money by shopping at local markets or small roadside stands, which usually have the cheapest and freshest products. There are also several discount supermarkets in Romania, like Profi, Lidl, and Penny Market.

Backpacking Sibiu Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget, you can visit Sibiu for around 120 RON per day. On this budget, you’re staying in a hostel dorm (or camping), cooking all of your meals, using local transportation to get around, limiting your drinking, and sticking to mostly free activities like hiking or walking tours.

On a mid-range budget of about 260 RON per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb room, eat out for most meals, enjoy a few drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like visiting museums or day tripping to the lake.

On a “luxury” budget of 455 RON or more per day, you can stay in a budget hotel, eat out for every meal, rent a car, drink as much as you’d like, and visit as many museums and attractions as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in RON.

Sibiu Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

To be honest, I didn’t find that Sibiu offered any amazing ways to save. Like most of Romania, it’s hard to spend money here if you’re coming with a budget mindset already. That said, there are a few things you can do to save extra money in Sibiu:

  • Stay with a local – Nothing’s cheaper than sleeping for free. Couchsurfing connects you with locals who provide a free place to stay and can also share their tips and advice so you have a more authentic visit.
  • Eat lunch out – Although food in Romania is inexpensive in general, you can save even more money by cooking your own dinners and eating your lunches out. A lunch menu in Romania typically consists of three courses (soup, main, dessert), and can cost as little as 30 RON.
  • Shop at discount grocers – If you’re going to cook or just grab a snack, save money by shopping at discount supermarkets like Profi, Lidl, and Penny Market.
  • Bring a water bottle – The tap water here is generally safe so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your reliance on single-use plastic. I suggest a LifeStraw since their bottles have a built-in filter to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Sibiu

Sibiu has a couple of hostels in town that are comfortable and sociable. Here are my suggested places to stay:

How to Get Around Sibiu

People walking through a Piata Huet, the main square in the historic Old Town in Sibiu, Romania

Public transportation – A single-ticket ride on the public bus is 2 RON per person. Most of the city is within walking distance though, so you won’t need to use the bus much unless you’re staying in a hotel or hostel far from the main tourist sites.

Taxi – Taxis here can get expensive (relative to the bus) so I’d avoid them for anything other than a short trip. Prices start at 3 RON and go up by 2.30 RON per kilometer. However, if you’re traveling with someone then taxis can be a good choice as you can split the fare and save some time (they are much faster than buses).

Always call your taxi in advance to be sure that you get a reputable driver and only take taxis that display their license and use the required meter. While scams are rare, it’s better to be safe than sorry!

Ridesharing – Ridesharing apps like Uber are not available here.

Bicycle – Cycling is a great way to get around the city. Everything is pretty compact and lots of locals bike around as well. You can find rentals for 80-110 RON per day. Helmets are included. If you want a bike tour of the city, expect to pay around 120 RON for a 3-4 hour guided tour.

When to Go to Sibiu

The best (and most popular) time to visit Sibiu is during the summer, from June to August. Temperatures are hot and rain is infrequent. Expect daily highs around 30°C (86°F) during this time. These are also the busiest months of the year for tourism, and you will notice it here as Sibiu is a popular destination for locals and foreigners alike. If coming here in the summer, book your accommodation in advance.

The shoulder seasons (late April-May and September-October) are great times to visit as well. You beat the crowds and have much milder temperatures, which is perfect for anyone looking to head into the hills for some hiking. There’s more rain in the spring, but there are beautiful autumn colors in the fall, making for a stunning backdrop to your trip (especially if you’re traveling on through Transylvania).

Winter in Sibiu can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing. Snow is common, which can affect conditions if you’re traveling by car. The city looks quite charming in the winter, though, making it a picturesque winter getaway (especially compared to Bucharest which has a much grimmer atmosphere due to the influence of Soviet architecture and their reliance on gray, bland concrete).

In short, I wouldn’t recommend a winter visit unless you have a specific desire to enjoy the cold and crowdless cities.

How to Stay Safe in Sibiu

Sibiu is a very safe destination. Crime against foreigners in Sibiu is very rare but use common sense and take the same precautions you do at home, such as not flashing your valuables, being aware of your surroundings, and not traveling alone at night while intoxicated.

Theft, if it does happen, usually happens on public transportation so make sure your valuables are always secure and out of reach. Avoid isolated areas at night, and be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Additionally, take some extra precautions when renting a car. While the roads are safe, rental cars are targeted for theft more than local cars, so take precautions and lock your vehicle when you’re not using it. When booking, make sure your insurance covers theft.

Solo female travelers should feel comfortable exploring on their own, though the standard precautions apply (don’t accept drinks from strangers, don’t walk alone late at night, etc.).

While scams are rare, you can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 112 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID, before you leave on your trip.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Sibiu Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

  • Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
  • Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
  • Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
  • Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
  • SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
  • LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
  • Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
  • Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Brasov Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Romania and continue planning your trip:

The Cost of Traveling Far Eastern Europe

The Cost of Traveling Far Eastern Europe

Finding More Than Dracula in Romania

Finding More Than Dracula in Romania

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The Hangry Backpacker

Go Alone. Get Lost. Eat.

Complete Travel Guide to Sibiu, Romania

February 11, 2023 By Hangry Backpacker Leave a Comment

Sibiu is one of the most popular travel destinations in Romania. The historic city in Transylvania has a long and interesting history that is visible across the city. A mix of historic, picturesque and peculiar attractions have made Sibiu one of the most popular travel destinations in Romania.

Sibiu Romania Travel Guide in old town small square

The historic region of Transylvania was once an ethnically diverse region. A blend of Saxons, Swabians, Hungarians and more, Lutheranism and Catholicism were the dominant Christian denominations. Prior to World War I, Sibiu was home to more Germans and Hungarians than Romanians.

The history of Sibiu (and Transylvania, in general) is what makes it such a great place to travel. Residents of the past left their mark on the city, and the historic old town is extremely well-preserved. This led to Sibiu being named a European Capital of Culture in 2007.

Today, the area is overwhelmingly Romanian. Ethnic Germans and Hungarians emigrated or were pushed out over the course of the 20th century. Only a few thousand remain in Sibiu today. From architecture to food, the impact of their ancestors remains visible and a reason Sibiu is a popular place to visit today.

Here’s what you need to know about travel to Sibiu, Romania:

Highlights & Top Attractions of Sibiu

The historic city of Sibiu, the old town, is roughly divided into two portions: the Upper Town and the Lower Town .

The Upper Town is where most of the top attractions in Sibiu are located. This is also where a majority of tourists spend their time. The primary exception to this is the portions of Lower Town that are right next to Upper Town. Here, there are a few cafes, shops and sites. For the most part, though, Lower Town is quiet.

For obvious reasons, Upper Town is the part of Sibiu that receives most of the attention. That doesn’t mean you should ignore the lower portion of the historic old city.

I thoroughly enjoyed walking around the Lower Town. It is predominantly residential, though you will see the occasional shop or BnB.

Empty quiet street of Lower Town in historic center of Sibiu

The calm walks through the Lower Town are a great opportunity to see a historic side of Sibiu without the crowds. As you venture further out, there are other interesting places to visit. One of my favorite spots in Lower Town is not of the calm variety. Rather, the Piata Cibin (Cibin Market) is a local market. You can find almost anything you can imagine here. 

The market certainly reminds one that Romania was a Communist state for decades, but it also is a brief glimpse into local life. If you’re staying in Sibiu for an extended period of time, you’ll want to shop here to save money and buy local.

Medieval Towers & City Walls

A walk through Sibiu’s historic center is surreal. There is a strong postcard feeling around every corner. As a city dating back nearly a thousand years, Sibiu’s history includes much from the Medieval period. With effective preservation efforts, many of the city’s medieval structures are still visible. In particular, the towers and walls are notable marks of the city.

Medieval stone and brick city walls with covered wooden structure on top in Sibiu Romania

There aren’t many places in the world where you can climb 12th Century towers or enjoy your morning coffee atop an 800-year-old wall.

The City Walls of Sibiu are largely part of existing buildings or parks that are there for your viewing pleasure. A couple of sections of the walls are part of museums and not always open to visitors. For the most part, though, they are there for your enjoyment.

The medieval towers of Sibiu stand out more. This might be because they tower above adjacent structures.

Medieval Carpenters Tower in Sibiu Romania

What I love about the towers of Sibiu is that several are still open to visitors. They aren’t really that tall, but most buildings in Sibiu’s historic center are only a few stories high. While other structures are taller (see next section), the views from the towers are unique.

Some of the towers are part of historic city defenses. Others were built by certain guilds. For instance, there is a Tinsmith’s Tower, a Tanner’s Tower and Potter’s tower.

View of Sibiu Grand Square from Council Tower

Turnul Sfatului , the Council Tower of Sibiu, is one of the most iconic landmarks in the city. It is hard to miss, separating the Grand and Small Square. Although other points are higher than this tower, the view from the Council Tower is hard to beat. It has great views of both squares, the immediate surrounding area and the large Cathedral nearby (see below).

The Council Tower of Sibiu is another great thing to do owing to the ease of climbing. As stated, it’s not that tall, but the views atop are much better than one might expect. It’s also a super cheap thing to do. Admission costs a mere 2 Lei – that’s about fifty cents! Climbing an 800-year-old tower to find a great view for less than a dollar – what a great reason to love Romania.

Churches of Sibiu

Sibiu’s rich religious history makes it a great place to visit a few spectacular churches. Of these, there are a few especially remarkable churches that you need to visit.

There are Catholic, Protestant and Orthodox Churches worth visiting in Sibiu. These make for excellent studies of architecture, regional history, religion, art and more. Sibiu’s churches help to create the picturesque scene that is this historic city. And there are even some fantastic views.

These two stand out from a city full of exceptional churches:

Lutheran Cathedral of Saint Mary

The Lutheran Cathedral of Saint Mary is one of the most obvious landmarks in Sibiu. The church is visible from across the city.

View of Lutheran Cathedral of Sibiu in Huet Square

This large Lutheran Cathedral was completed over 500 years ago. It is famous for its organs, so don’t miss the chance if you have the opportunity to hear them roar.

Despite being one of the largest and most visible structures in Sibiu, the Lutheran Cathedral functions more as a museum today. The local Lutheran community, consisting primarily of ethnic Germans, is a fraction of its historical size.

A tour through the Cathedral is interesting in the sense that it provides a stark contrast to the ornate interiors of Catholic churches and the relic-filled interiors of Orthodox churches. It is clearly a Protestant building.

The highlights of the exterior are the colorful designs of the shingles on the roof and the large tower. The tower of the church rises nearly 250 feet high.

A climb up the tower of the Lutheran Cathedral of Saint Mary is one of the best things to do in Sibiu. This is where you’ll find the best view in town. The walk to the top involves plenty of stairs. It’s not an extreme physical undertaking, but you’ll probably break a sweat.

The best view in Sibiu Romania from the bell tower of the Lutheran Cathedral

Although the Cathedral interior is notably Protestant and lacking over-the-top decor, it is still very nice. However, I would suggest skipping a visit to the church portion and sticking with the tower.

Why? It’s not free. It’s barely more than a dollar, but that’s not the point.

It irks me, to say the least, when active churches charge admission for entrance. Yes, this church functions more as a museum today, but it is not officially designated as such. Without going further into that, I can understand paying to visit the tower only. This requires upkeep for safety purposes, and heavy foot traffic impacts structural integrity. In the case of Sibiu’s Lutheran Cathedral, stick to paying to climb the tower. The view is unquestionably worth the 10 Lei price of admission.

Romanian Orthodox Holy Trinity Cathedral

The Holy Trinity Cathedral is the largest Romanian Orthodox church in Sibiu. The Byzantine style stands out among the predominantly Hungarian and German architecture you see in Transylvania.

exterior of neo-Byzantine Holy Trinity Romanian Orthodox Cathedral in Sibiu

The Orthodox Holy Trinity Cathedral is not as old as most of the other churches of Sibiu. It dates to the early 20th Century.

Don’t let its relative youth deter you. Orthodox churches are interesting sites to see for those more familiar with Western sites, and this Cathedral is magnificent. With inspiration from the Hagia Sophia, the Byzantine style dominates the structure, but there are elements of Transylvania, too.

interior of Neo-Byzantine Holy Trinity Romanian Orthodox Cathedral in Sibiu

The interior is unquestionably Orthodox. It is fairly dark, with lots of shiny relics and wall-to-wall artwork, beneath an enormous dome. There is no entrance fee.

Sibiu’s Historic Squares

The historic city of Sibiu has two primary squares – Piata Mica and Piata Mare. These translate to Lesser Square and Grand Square (or Small/Little Square and Big Square), respectively.

Naturally, Sibiu’s famous squares are the centers of tourism in the city. They are remarkably well-preserved, with most of the buildings dating back hundreds of years.

The best part about the Grand Square and the Small Square in Sibiu is that you can enjoy these spaces the way you want to and do so affordably . Most photogenic and historic squares of Europe are lined with restaurants, the ideal spot to grab a drink or bite to eat, take in the scene before you and watch for hours.

Sibiu Romania Grand Square Piata Mare

Most of these picturesque, cafe-lined squares of Europe are also expensive places to sit and watch the world move along.

Crowded Sibiu Small Square with market stalls

Romania is different. It’s cheap. You can affordably sit for a couple of hours in Sibiu’s Grand Square and have a few beers or glasses of wine. I did this on a few occasions. Romanian brews set me back less than $3 per beer. Local wine is only slightly more expensive.

One afternoon, I ate lunch in the Small Square. An entire pizza plus two beers was about $8, fantastic view and tip included.

If you’re on a mission to eat and drink as cheap as you possibly can, skip the cafes in the squares. This is the center of the historic old city, the center of tourism in Sibiu. So, yes, it is generally the most expensive area to eat and drink. But ‘expensive’ in Romania isn’t the same as expensive – or even average – in much of Western Europe.

But where else can you have a $2 beer in a historic square in Europe? There aren’t many options. Even the more expensive places in Romania are cheaper than comparable sites across Europe.

Take advantage of the chance to enjoy a moment to slow down in an historic location surrounded by centuries-old beautiful buildings. There aren’t many places in Europe where a budget traveler can do this, and who knows how long that will be the case in Romania.

Bridge of Lies

The Bridge of Lies is a small, unassuming footbridge in the center of Sibiu. It spans a pedestrian street that connects the Small Square with lower portions of the historic city center.

Aside from being architecturally significant – it is the second-oldest cast iron bridge in Europe, so that’s something – the Bridge of Lies isn’t that important. As far as bridges go, it’s a nice one. And the location does make for a nice photo.

The top of the bridge is where you’ll find most of the photo-takers. It’s definitely one of the top ‘selfie spots’ in Sibiu.

cast iron Bridge of Lies in Sibiu Romania from the street below

The interesting thing about Romania’s oldest cast iron bridge are the fun legends with which it is associated. The local legend here is that the bridge will collapse if you tell a lie while standing upon it.

Hopefully, the structural integrity of the Bridge of Lies is not dependent upon your honesty. Even so, test the legend at your own risk!

Sibiu’s Bridge of Lies is a nice landmark, though. And the location directly adjacent to the Small Square makes this an easy thing to do in Sibiu. Make sure to snap a few pictures, and tell the truth when you’re standing there!

The Eyes of Sibiu

The most intriguing travel attraction in Sibiu is the famous “Eyes of Sibiu.” 

All across the city, roofs of buildings and homes are adorned with dormers that look like watching eyes. The dormers are a little creepy but also humorous.

Medieval Tanners Tower next to house with Eyes of Sibiu

Despite legends claiming the dormers are meant to appear like they are spying on you, the ever-watchful Eyes of Sibiu are little more than a local trend from some 500 hundred years ago. They do, however, make for a fun and curious feature of the city.

Dormers of this type can be seen in other places in Transylvania, but Sibiu has the highest concentration. At times, you genuinely feel like someone is watching you as you turn a corner and suddenly meet two giant eyes straight ahead. I had a bit of fun with them, as you can see below.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by The Hangry Backpacker (@hangrybackpacker)

Stroll Around “New” Sibiu

Most visitors do not leave the historic center of Sibiu. To be fair, there’s plenty to do here to occupy your time. However, the city in the 21st Century is much more than a quaint, old town.

There are not a lot of historic sites or pretty buildings in the newer portions of Sibiu. It is an interesting contrast to the old town, though. The marks of Communist architecture are abundant. If you enjoy seeing a place beyond the postcard views and ‘insta-worthy’ scenes, take a walk away from Sibiu’s historic center.

Modern Sibiu neighborhood away from historic center with communist era block apartments

This is where most locals live and spend their time. If you want some semblance of authenticity when you travel to Romania, make sure to get away from the tourist bubbles. In Sibiu, you can walk 5 minutes from the historic center and be in a totally different place. On the positive end, New Sibiu is extremely cheap, and the people are just as friendly.

How Long Should You Stay?

I could easily spend a few weeks in Sibiu. If you use Sibiu as a base to visit nearby towns and villages, even those which might be a couple of hours away, this is a great place for slow travel. Within 1-2 hours from Sibiu, there are national parks, attractive villages, historic sites and more.

For a typical visitor, you can see the main sights and a little more in two days. The historic center of the city is where pretty much all of the notable sights are located. You can visit the churches, towers, squares and wander in between in a little more than one day. Two days allows for you to do all of this and more at a slower pace.

I spent five days in Sibiu. On one hand, I saw ‘everything’ with time to spare. At the same time, I enjoyed walking around the city and could have done so for a few more days. The extra days allow time to explore away from the historic center, an interesting contrast to the old town with few tourists and visit sites outside of town.

The overall vibe in Sibiu is calm. It’s no surprise that there is an expat community here. Whether you spend a couple of days or a couple of months in Sibiu, there is plenty to do.

Where to Stay in Sibiu

You want to stay in the city center when visiting Sibiu. Most of the attractions will be within walking distance, and there are restaurants in every direction. Romania is cheap, so you won’t have to pay typical European “city center prices.”

Accommodation in the Sibiu city center is largely small, independent operators. With a few exceptions, most of it is of the BnB or family-owned hotel variety. Staff/owners are friendly, and prices are usually affordable. Bigger hotels are not far away but will require a walk to reach the historic sites.

Maybe it’s a good thing that Sibiu’s cityscape has yet to be corrupted by large chains. The economic benefits tend to lean toward the local area. However, many travelers seek consistency and reliability when choosing where to stay during their travels. In that sense, Sibiu is lacking.

Backpackers and budget travelers don’t have many hostel options either. I love hostels for so many reasons , but most of Romania is lagging behind in the hostel game.

The two hostel options in Sibiu are B13 Hostel and PanGeea Hostel. Neither of these is great.

I stayed at B13 Hostel . The facility itself is maze-like and large. It’s a cool space and has so much potential. Staff was horrible, though. They were largely absent, offered absolutely no help in or out of the hostel and were not local. It was never cleaned, and the atmosphere was nonexistent. It pains me, because this place has so much potential to be a great hostel.

I recommend PanGeea Hostel . While I did not stay there, the reviews are slightly better. I did visit, though, and this hostel also has the coolest bar in Sibiu on site. The rooms appear to be about the same level of mediocre.

For budget travelers, hostels are still the cheapest option in Sibiu. Leave your high expectations at home. Otherwise, lodging in Sibiu is affordable, and there are plenty of small hotels from which to choose.

How to Get There

Depending on your idea of a good time, transportation in Romania for tourists can be a fun undertaking. If you don’t mind circuitous routes and long travel days through the countryside, Romania is the place for you. Be sure to check out our Romania Transportation Guide before you visit.

Sibiu’s main train station and bus station are adjacent to one another. This is where you are most likely to arrive/depart. From there, it is about a 15-minute walk to the Grand Square.

Exterior of Sibiu Romania Train Station with taxis lined up in front

Getting to and from Sibiu is not especially difficult. It can, however, take quite a bit of time.

Despite being one of the largest cities in Transylvania and one of most popular tourist destinations in Romania, direct routes to Sibiu from other cities are few.

The easiest way to reach Sibiu from most places is via bus. If you are coming from Brasov, the train is best. Otherwise, even larger cities like Cluj and Timisoara require connections as part of long journeys.

Sibiu is less than 150 miles from Bucharest. That 150 miles takes over 8 hours by train and almost 6 hours by bus. These times assume there are no delays. We suggest taking the bus.

Taking the Bus from Bucharest to Sibiu

My bus ride from Bucharest to Sibiu was supposed to take less than 5 hours. The journey ultimately took over 6 hours. You can drive yourself in about 4 hours, but you aren’t immune to road delays.

The bus is the best way to reach Sibiu from Bucharest. It is slightly more expensive than the train, but the bus is faster and much more comfortable.

interior view of intercity transportation bus in Romania

You can find the bus to Sibiu leaving Bucharest at Autogara Militari (bus station). Tickets are purchased from the bus driver. There’s no need to go inside. The bus times and destinations are listed on signs next to each berth. If you are uncertain, walk up to people near a bus and ask, “Sibiu?”

The Romanian people are generally helpful and friendly. Once you find your bus, put your bag underneath. Hop in line, and pay the driver. Seats are not reserved. Pick your favorite row, and get comfortable. It’s going to be a long but scenic ride!

I paid 84 lei for my bus. Current prices on the best site for Romanian bus transportation is 91 lei. That’s less than $20. The train is cheaper, but the bus is a far more comfortable and scenic trip.

After you arrive at the Sibiu bus station, it’s easy to reach the historic old city. You can see the church towers in the distance, slightly uphill from the station. The walk takes about 15 minutes to reach the center.

The Best Time to Travel to Sibiu

Summer is the best time of year to travel to Sibiu. Romania is fairly warm and humid during Summer months, but that is relative.

As someone who is from a place that is miserably hot from June through August (and just regular hot two months either side of that), I found the weather in Sibiu to be excellent. Days are warm, and nights are pleasant, even cool.

Piata Mica Sibiu Romania in the evening

Rain falls evenly throughout the year, so there’s no need to avoid any kind of rainy season. I suggest packing a rain jacket.

Sibiu gets cold during Winter, but it doesn’t receive an annoying amount of snowfall. There is a ski resort less than an hour away.

Sibiu has a famous Christmas market that makes December a time to brave the cold. Naturally, it attracts a lot of visitors. For Christmas market enthusiasts, it might be a great alternative to the jam-packed, more famous Christmas markets in Western Europe.

Weather aside, the time to visit Sibiu is now . I say this because it is growing in popularity. Tourism in Romania (pre-2020) was growing due to its affordability and wide offerings of history, nature and unique culture. Sibiu is a place that combines all of that, and it will only grow more popular and busier in the years to come.

Eating in Sibiu

Eating in Sibiu is tricky. A majority of tourists will find themselves in the historic center for most, if not all, of their time here. Consequently, there are a ton of restaurants in the center from which to choose.

Restaurants are not exclusive to the squares, either. Side streets are home to more restaurants, cafes and pubs.

How do you navigate the sea of restaurants in Sibiu?

Busy pedestrian street in Sibiu Romania - Strada Nicolae Balcescu lined with restaurants and lots of people walking

In a sense, you cannot avoid tourist restaurants in the historic center. This area is dominated by tourism, so prices will be higher than elsewhere in the city.

The good news is that Sibiu is a budget-friendly travel destination. Despite being a tourist town, it’s cheaper than Bucharest. There are ‘local’ places to eat – and you can get more details in the Hangry Backpacker’s Sibiu Food Guide soon! – but it takes a little effort.

What I like about eating in Sibiu is the ease of eating Romanian food in comparison to other popular destinations within the country. Most of the cafes in the squares serve local food. The elements of Hungarian and German influence of food in Transylvania is present in Sibiu but less so than other cities.

Romanian Craft Beer and pizza in piata mica

In general, the food in Sibiu is good and affordable. And it’s easy to find decent Romanian grub. If you want to save money, search farther away from the squares.

Sibiu is on most short lists of places to travel in Romania. Due to the culture, architecture and setting, it is also gaining notoriety as a great place to travel in general.

Romania is gaining traction as a great place to retire, largely due to the temperate climate and low cost of living. Sibiu has become the home to a growing expat community, and it’s easy to see why.

View of Lower City Sibiu Romania historic center

For those of us who want to visit Sibiu less permanently, the general atmosphere is an attractive one. It is an excellent place to slow down, wander around and enjoy your travel destination. From food to history, you can experience Transylvania in the ideal setting.

Romania’s capital city has a lot offer , but tourism in Bucharest often revolves around a party. That’s not the case in Transylvania. There’s fun to have, but partying is not the goal. Sibiu is a place to travel to experience Romania and appreciate its unique history and beauty.

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sibiu travel highlights

What to See in Sibiu, Romania’s Most Beautiful City

Arguably  Romania ’s most beautiful city, the vast architectural heritage of Sibiu is the result of different cultures. The former center of Transylvanian Saxons is today an important cultural and tourist center. Sections of the Old City Wall still surround the medieval city center, which is divided into the Upper Town and the Lower Town. In the Middle Ages, Saxon (German) settlers built several merchant houses within the walls. Plenty of old churches, cute historical houses and narrow alleys complete the feast. Moreover, its old town is a real neighborhood inhabited by charming and hospitable locals. Thus, what to see and do in Sibiu depends on your interests!

Strada Nicolae Bălcescu

  • 2.1 Historic Building
  • 2.2 Other Places to Stay
  • 3.1 Upper Town
  • 3.2 Lower Town
  • 3.3 Other Sites
  • 4 Where to Eat and Drink
  • 5.1 Fortified Churches of Transylvania
  • 5.2 Related posts

How to Get to Sibiu

It took us a long day of hitchhiking to get to Sibiu. We entered Romania via Timisoara where we spent a couple of days. After Timisoara we wanted to explore Transylvania, continuing our route to Sibiu. Though we found several bus connections online, when we arrived at the station there were no buses at all, so we had to hitchhike. It took us three hours for a car to stop and take us to Deva , and then just a few minutes for a pickup truck to Sibiu. The whole experience was brilliant, chatting with both drivers and enjoying great views. Completely exhausted, but happy, we arrived to Sibiu late that evening. After a brief moment to recover, we dashed to a local bar to celebrate our adventure. We had made it so we deserved a beer! Ok, more than one beer.

Hitchhiking preparations

As you can see, Romanian buses are quite unreliable. However, and fortunately, the train network is extensive. From Timisoara , there is only one train a day to Sibiu, and the journey takes about 6.5 hours. From  Bucharest , there are 3 daily trains and, the journey takes between 5 to 6 hours. There are 7 trains a day from Bra ş ov that take between 2.5 to 4 hours. There are even two international trains from  Budapest  to Sibiu that also stop in  Arad  on the way. It’s a long 10 to 11 hour trip from Budapest. From Arad, it takes about 6 hours. Finally, Wizzair flies to Sibiu from several European destinations.

Romanian Train - Ticket control

Where to Stay in Sibiu

Historic building.

Our initial plan was to book a room in the famous Old Town Hostel (now City Stay Hostel) on the Small Square. It was the best ranked accommodation at the time and had wonderful double rooms with bathroom for a very affordable price. Unfortunately, it was fully booked. The only other option was the Felinarul Hostel , equally beautiful but with no en suite bathrooms. I simply do not like sharing bathrooms, sorry. However, traveling is all about adjusting and to me as an architect, staying in a historical building is a must, so we booked it anyway. The place was amazing and everything was perfect, except for the cute dog constantly biting our feet.

Having fun with my new friend

Other Places to Stay

Over the last decade, tourism has been steadily increasing in Sibiu city. Thus, there is a wide range of accommodation to choose from. Since all tourist attractions are in the old town, staying there is a must. One of your best options is the historical  Hotel Casa Luxemburg . This baroque building is one of the oldest in the city, and its rooms overlook one of Sibiu’s main squares. Another interesting hotel in an old house is the  Hotel Marabella . It’s in the picturesque Lower Town and offers stylish rooms, some of them with views. If you are into beautiful palaces, the  Continental Forum Sibiu   is your best bet. The large neoclassical building from 1912 offers elegant rooms and a cool spa.

Our Hostel in Sibiu

What to See in Sibiu

We spent two days exploring Sibiu’s wonderful Old Town. Sibiu was the European Capital of Culture in 2007 so all of its buildings were fully restored. The city’s highlights are its three main squares: Piața Mare (Big market square), Piața Mică (Small square), and Piaţa Huet (Hayes square).  In fact, the majority of important buildings are around the three. We climbed the tall Council Tower (Turnul Sfatului) on The Big Square and enjoyed unobstructed views of the city. We spent time on the same square admiring the lavishly decorated façades of Sibiu’s City Hall , Brukenthal Palace and the Roman Catholic Church .

View from the Council Tower

Piața Mare (Big Market Square)

The  Piața Mare  has been the epicenter of the old town since the late 15th century. This large elegant square was the playing field of the rich and powerful. Through centuries it has hosted markets, public meetings, and even executions. The Tarnul Sfatului or Council Tower is from the late 13th century. It used to be the entrance to the nearby City Hall. Take note that every building on the square is a Historical Monument of National Importance. Don’t forget to climb all the way to the top of the tower for some of Sibiu’s best views. If you are into art, enter the beautiful Brukenthal Palace and admire medieval Transylvanian, Flemish, Dutch, and Italian works.

Sibiu - Piața Mare

Piața Mică (Small Square)

The council tower separates the Big Square from the Small Square or  Piața Mică . Unlike the former, Mica is more intimate, its buildings less imposing, and not so compact. In fact, the Strada Ocnei street under the Bridge of Lies divides the square in two. Numerous colorful 17th-century houses surround the square. Notice the ground floor loggias or covered archways, which provide for an intimate atmosphere. Some of the best coffeehouses and restaurants are here. One of the oldest houses in Sibiu, Casa Artelor, is on Mica too. Though it isn’t clear when it was built, documents as early as 1340 mention it.

Sibiu - Piața Mică

After spending the first day in the Upper Town, we took the Stairs Passage (Pasajul Scarilor) to the Lower Town. The north side of the Lower Town is crisscrossed by cobbled streets and surrounded by cute historical houses, perfect to walk about. On the other hand, the southern part has a beautiful park and medieval towers . The long linear park is where the city moat used to be. A large portion of the medieval city walls with five of the original towers is next to it. The whole area is peaceful and strangely enough, not overly touristic. It’s one of the most beautiful places in Sibiu city and perhaps in Romania.

Sibiu - Beautiful historical houses

Stairs Passage (Pasajul Scarilor)

The most scenic street in Sibiu,  Pasajul Scarilor,  is the main pathway between the upper and lower towns. It was built in the 18th century to connect the two neighborhoods. The passage swings under the arches of the original fortifications from the 12th century. Its name means the Stairway Passage, because of its numerous stairs. The branch of the street called  Turnul Scarii  (Tower of Steps) that goes to the  Piaţa Huet  is covered. Though still somewhat off the beaten track, the Piaţa Huet is Sibiu’s oldest square. You can have delicious coffee and cakes on historical  Café Wien , at the corner of the square, overlooking the passage.

Pasajul Scărilor

Sibiu Fortifications

As mentioned above, you will find a long strip of the historic city walls south of the upper town. It has three towers named following the guilds that defended the city: Harquebusiers’ Tower (Turnul Archebuzierilor), Potters’ Tower (Turnul Olarilor) and Carpenters’ Tower (Turnul Dulgherilor). Continue walking along the wall and you’ll reach another tower. The  Great Tower  (Turnul Gros) homes the Sibiu State Philharmonic. At the end of the Strada Cetatii, you’ll find the last tower:  Tinsmiths’ Tower  (Turnul Zincarilor – Fierarilor). Once more, climb one of the towers to admire the views.

Turnul Dulgherilor

Other Sites

Since there isn’t much to see outside of the Old Town, we explored it further. On the north side of the Small Square you’ll spot a small cast iron bridge that connects the Upper and Lower Towns, called the Bridge of Lies.  Legend has it that the bridge has ears, and for every lie you say it cracks a little. I never lie so I don’t know if it’s true. Well, that was a lie, but I didn’t say it while crossing the bridge! Don’t miss the impressive 14 th century Lutheran Cathedral of Saint Mary that sits on Hayes Square.  The organ inside is the biggest in Southeast Europe. The nearby Holy Trinity Cathedral , Sibiu’s main Orthodox Church, is also worth a visit.

The Stair's Tower

Bridge of Lies

Sibiu’s most famous bridge, the  Bridge of Lies,  is an intriguing landmark. The current iron bridge replaced the old wooden one in 1859. It is the first cast-iron structure in Romania and the first bridge without pylons. Mystery and legends wrap the bridge. Rumor has it that women would come to the bridge to declare their love to their lovers swearing to be virgins. If the wedding night proved the later was a lie, the husband would throw the wife from the bridge. Yes, it’s really a misogynist and stupid legend. Another one says that cheating traders were exposed on the bridge to discourage other traders.

Liars Bridge on Piața Mică

Lutheran Cathedral of Saint Mary

The Gothic  Lutheran Cathedral of Saint Mary  is Sibiu’s most impressive church. Construction of the church began in 1350 and took almost 200 years to complete. It finally opened in 1520. Strangely enough, they finished the 73-meter high tower before the church itself. It is Transylvania’s tallest tower. Take your time and go all the way to the top for great views. Notice the few remaining original frescoes inside the church. The nicest one is the Crucifixion from 1445. Additionally, there is a large collection of valuable objects, including a rare collection of funerary stones and mural paintings.

Strada Turnului

Where to Eat and Drink

Romania is a culinary heaven, just like every other Balkan country. Coming from Serbia, I didn’t expect much from its cuisine. After all, we share the same history: both Romania and Serbia were partly under the Austro-Hungarian and partly under Ottoman rule. Nevertheless, I tried Sarmale , rolls of cabbage leaves stuffed with rice and meat. I discovered that in Romania they serve it with Polenta , a boiled cornmeal. It was delicious, just like everything else we tried at the fantastic Sibiul Vechi Restaurant . Another restaurant that offers great romanian food in a place full of atmosphere is the famous Golden Barrel , Romania’s oldest restaurant.

Delicious Romanian dessert

The most beautiful places in Romania surround Sibiu. Pretty close to the city, you will find the popular  Astra Museum.  It is a village museum that preserves century-old traditions and serves as an education center. The country’s most scenic road  Transfăgărășan  is only an hour and a half away. Go on an excursion or spend the night in one of the lodgings next to Lake Balea. If you didn’t have enough of historic cities, visit  Medias  north of the city, or  Alba Iulia west of it. Finally, one of the best places to visit in Romania , Hunedoara Castle , is also relatively close to Sibiu.

Detail of the Old Town

Fortified Churches of Transylvania

The main reason we came to Romania was to visit beautiful historical cities and the off the beaten track Fortified Churches . These churches are scattered all around Transylvania. UNESCO’s included the most important ones in its World Heritage Sites list. Close to Sibiu there is a wonderful example: the 12 th century Cisnadie Fortified Church . If you don’t go to Brasov or Sighisoara, the latter provides a great insight into Romania’s medieval heritage and authentic Transylvanian village life. We didn’t have time to go because we focused on churches around Sighisoara . If you happen to go, please let us know what you think.

Viscri Fortified Church

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sibiu travel highlights

Veronica Rosu

Grüße aus Romania Milo’s .

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happyfrogtravels

Thanks Veronica! Greetings from Serbia!

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Brigitte Awada

Hi Milos, thanks for sharing your travel experiences. It’s always interesting and inspiring for exploring different places.?

Thanks Brigitte, I hope my post inspires you to visit Sibiu! You won’t regret it!

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SIBIU - Transylvania, visitor information

Main cities.

Sibiu Romania

CITY OF SIBIU Fast Facts Sights and Landmarks Museums Performing Arts Attractions Near Sibiu Day Trips from Sibiu Festivals & Events

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Sibiu Fast Facts

Location:   Southern Transylvania (Central Romania) Nearest airport:   Sibiu (SBZ) Area:   46.7 sq. miles (121 sq. kilometers) Elevation:   1,410 ft. (430 meters) Population:   134,000 Inhabited since:   300 BC First documented:   1191 AD Oldest building in town:   Casa Böbel (1370)

Sibiu on Map

Sibiu Sights and Landmarks

Sibiu (Hermannstadt in German) was the largest and wealthiest of the seven walled citadels ( Siebenburgen ) founded in the 12th century by German settlers known as 'Transylvanian Saxons'. The riches amassed by its guilds paid for the construction of both impressive buildings and the fortifications required to protect them. Sibiu Old Town retains the grandeur of its earlier days when rich and powerful guilds dominated regional trade. Like Sighisoara and Brasov - two other outstanding towns in southern Transylvania - it has a distinctly Germanic feeling. Sections of the medieval wall still guard the historic area, where narrow streets pass steep-roofed 17th century buildings with gable overhangs before opening into vast, church-dominated squares such as Great Square and Little Square. Pedestrian-friendly, Sibiu Old Town has two distinct sections: the Upper Town, home to most of Sibiu's historic landmarks, and the Lower Town, lined with colorful houses on cobblestone streets and bounded by imposing city walls and defense towers overlooking the river Cibin.

Traditionally, the Upper-Town was wealthier and concentrated businessmen and tradesmen; the Lower-Town served as the manufacturing area. Most popular attractions in Sibiu Old Town include the Great Square, Huet Square, the beautiful Passage of Steps (which connects the upper town to the lower town), Goldsmiths' Square, the Smaller Square as well as the Bridge of Lies.

Sibiu Romania

Turnurile Sibiului For hundreds of years, this walled town in the heart of Transylvania was one of the most powerful and prosperous strongholds in Eastern Europe. Surrounded by imposing walls, Sibiu Old Town limits are marked by the original fortifications which included 39 defensive towers, five bulwarks, four gates and five artillery batteries. Although the entire network is remarkably well-preserved, the best-maintained section is the southeastern side which has been reinforced several times throughout the centuries since attacks most often came from that direction. Three 15th century towers have withstood the test of time: Harquebusiers' Tower (Turnul Archebuzierilor) , Carpenters' Tower (Turnul Dulgherilor) and Potters' Tower (Turnul Olarilor) . The 16th century The Thick Tower (Turnul Gros) was the site of Sibiu's first theatrical performance, staged in 1778.

Orașul de Sus At the centre of the upper town there are three beautiful squares. The Great Square - a large, open, space where most community events and Sibiu Christmas Market are held. The Roman-Catholic church and Brukenthal Palace, home to one of Romania's most important art collections, are two of the structures facing the Great Square. A passage beneath the Old Town Council Tower connects the Great Square with the equally beautiful Little Square. The third square of Sibiu, Huet Square, is dominated by the Evangelical Cathedral.

Piața Mare First mentioned in a written document in 1411 as a grain market, the Great Square – the largest in the city - has been throughout the centuries a quiet witness to the town's lively merchant activity, assemblies and even public executions. Located in the heart of the old walled city, the square was designated an architectural monument by UNESCO and features some of the most impressive buildings in Sibiu.

Best viewpoint of Sibiu Old Town For an outstanding panorama of Sibiu Old Town climb to the top of the Evangelic Church Tower Admission 5 Lei ($1.25 US).

Biserica Romano-Catolica Address: Piata Mare The north side of the Great Square is dominated by the Roman-Catholic Church (Biserica Romano-Catolica) . This beautiful baroque structure with classical decorations was built between 1726 and 1738. The tower was attached to the nave in 1738 and one year later, a cross was seated on the top. The completely renovated interior is magnificent with gold-laced walls and colorful ceiling frescoes. Intricate stone carvings cover much of the nave while the side altars and colonnades glisten with pink marble. The fresco behind the altar was painted in 1777 by Anton Steinwald. Inside the church is the stone grave of Otto Ferdinand de Abensberg, commander of Transylvania between 1744-1747. Organ recitals are usually held once a week.

Turnul Sfatului Address: Piața Mare At the corner with Avram Iancu Street stand the old mayor's residence and the imposing Council Tower (Turnul Sfatului) . Built in the 13-th century, this tower was used as entrance gate to the second row of fortified walls built around Sibiu. Throughout the centuries, the Council Tower served as a grain storehouse, a fire watchtower, a temporary prison and even as a museum of botany. The roof, originally built in pyramid form, has undergone various changes, culminating in the addition of four corner turrets in 1826. On the top floor, an observation deck allows a bird's-eye view of the historic town and the Fagaras Mountains beyond.

Palatul Brukental Address: Piata Mare 4 - 5 Facing west of the square is the stunning Brukenthal Palace (Palatul Brukental) , built between 1778-1785 by a Viennese architect in a refined late-baroque style. It is now the home of the Brukenthal Museum (Muzeul Brukenthal) , the oldest and one of the finest art museums in the country. The palace was built by Baron Samuel von Brukenthal to serve as his residence and house his collections of Romanian and Western art, 16th – 18th century religious sculptures and icons, stamps and coins, as well as an impressive library. Over the years, the collections have been enriched through acquisitions and donations.

Even though the museum officially opened in 1817, its art galleries welcomed visitors 27 years earlier (1790), three years prior to the opening of the Louvre in Paris - France.

Completing the picture is the fairy-tale Blue House, an 18-th century baroque house bearing the old coat of arms of Sibiu on its facade.

Sibiu Romania

Piața Mică From the Great Square, walk through one of two tunnels under the arches of the Council Tower to arrive at the Little Square. This second fortified square was home to the town's most prestigious master craftsmen, who lived in rows of arcaded houses along the north and east sides. Today, small shops, cafes and businesses line the square.

Piața Huet Huet Square is home to a mix of gothic buildings dominated by the Evangelical Cathedral (Biserica Evangelica) . This impressive structure, featuring five pointed towers, was built in 1520 on the site of an old Roman basilica. The simple, stark interior is in total contrast to that of the Catholic Church. A gigantic fresco, painted by Johannes of Rosenau in 1445, covers much of the chancel's north wall. The mural shows the Crucifixion and marks a transition in painting from late-gothic style to renaissance style. On the south side, the choir loft boasts a beautiful fan-vaulted ceiling, home to a baroque organ designed by a German master in 1671. Six thousand pipes were installed in 1914, making it the largest organ in Romania. Here, you can also find the city's only German school, the Samuel von Brukenthal Gymnasium, which exemplifies the city's proud German heritage.

Orașul de Jos The Lower-Town comprises the area between the river and the hill, and it developed around the earliest fortifications. The streets are long and quite wide for medieval city standards, with small city squares at places. The architecture is rather rustic: typically two-storey houses with tall roofs and gates opening passages to inner courts.

Sibiu Romania

Podul Minciunilor Several steep streets and stairways lead from the Lower to the Upper Town and, one of them passes beneath the "Bridge of Lies" - a popular meeting place among the locals. Built in 1859 by Fredericus Hutte, this was the first cast iron bridge in Romania.

There are several legends concerning the name of the Bridge of Lies in Sibiu. One involves merchants who were discussing business on the bridge and trying to swindle their clients. Another is that the bridge will collapse as soon as anyone tells a lie, while on it. The bridge, a favorite meeting point for young lovers, 'heard' too many passionate but transitory vows. Despite all the legends, the current name of the bridge is due to a translation error: The bridge was initially called Liegenbrücke, German for lying bridge (built without supporting pillars), which sounds very similar to Lügenbrücke, meaning "bridge of lies".

Pasajul Scarilor The 13th century Passage of Steps, an architectural masterpiece with twin staircases and archways, connects the Upper Town to the Lower Town. Built in the 13th century, it is one of the most picturesque places in Sibiu. At one end of the passage stands the city's oldest building which now hosts the oldest restaurant in Romania, The Golden Barrel (Butoiul de Aur) .

Sibiu Romania

Piața Aurarilor The Goldsmiths' Square, a peaceful and intimate square, is surrounded by charming old houses with medieval windows, doorways and turrets. For many years, it was the main point of passage between the Little Square and the Lower Town, the two connected by a 15th century stairway.

Bastionul Haller Address: Str. Spitalelor Located at the north end of Onofreiu Square (Piata Onofreiu), the bastion is named after Sibiu's 16-th century mayor, Petrus Haller, who had the red-brick tower built in 1551.

Catedrala Ortodoxa Mitropolitana Sfanta Treime Address: Str. Mitropoliei 35 Constructed between 1902–1906 on the site of a former Greek church, it shares a similar style with Saint Sofia Cathedral in Istanbul, Turkey. The interior is dominated by a massive gold chandelier and features neo-Byzantine decorations. This is the second largest Orthodox cathedral in Romania (the biggest one is located in Iasi).

Manastirea Ursulinelor Address: Str. General Gh. Magheru 38 Built in 1474, the site was home to a Dominican Monastery until 1543 when the Lutherans took over. Known under the German name of Klosterkirche, it became a Ursuline Monastery in 1755. The Ursulines changed the gothic interior to baroque style. Outside, the building still features many of its former gothic details, including the portal and the piles. Inside, the church has three altars and beautiful paintings representing various saints and protectors of the church.

Biserica din Groapa Address: Str. Justitiei 5 This small Orthodox Church, built in 1789, features beautiful interior frescoes and a tower in three levels.

Although documents attest the existence of Jews in Sibiu since the 12th century, the Jewish community of Sibiu was never among the biggest in Romania. In 1940 the town had some 1,300 Jews, three synagogues, three rabbis, two cemeteries and two ritual baths managed by the Sephardic and Orthodox communities. Today, the handful of Jews who remain in Sibiu hold weekly and holiday services at the Great Synagogue.

Address: Str. Constitutiei 19 Built after plans by architect Szalay Ferenc in 1899, with funds collected by Sibiu's small Jewish community, this synagogue boasts a neo-gothic façade. The inside has a basilica-like shape with three naves mounted by lofts.

Sibiu Romania

Sibiu Museums

Muzeul Brukenthal Address: Piața Mare 4 - 5 Telephone: (+4) 0269 217.691 Hours and Admission

Sibiu is home to Transylvania's finest art museum, the Bruckenthal.   Founded in 1790 by Samuel Brukenthal, the governor of Transylvania, the museum opened to the public in 1817. Brukenthal is the oldest museum in Romania and one of the first museums to be founded in Europe.   The art collection includes paintings by Rubens, Van Dyck and Teniers, as well as works of German, Austrian and Romanian masters. Additionally, it features a 16th century silverware collection, painted glass icons and 350 rare books, many dating to the days of the first printing press.

Muzeul in aer liber ASTRA -Dumbrava Sibiului Address: Strada Pădurea Dumbrava 16 (2 miles south of downtown Sibiu) Bus # 13 connects Sibiu train station with ASTRA Museum. Telephone: (+4) 0269 242.419 Opening Hours and Admission

Located in the middle of a dense forest and surrounded by a beautiful lake, ASTRA features more than 300 original buildings as well as watermills, windmills, gigantic fruit and seed presses hydraulic forges and structures representing village architectural styles from many parts of Romania. The museum illustrates the technological legacy of the Romanian people. There is a wonderful collection of wooden farmhouses, a cherhana (a traditional collecting and storage point for fish) and sheepfolds, as well as a wooden church and two traditional inns. Guided tours are available. Another option is a visit by horse-drawn carriages (driver will kiss ladies' hand, in greeting, an old Romanian custom).

Muzeul de Istorie Address: Str. Mitropoliei 2 Tel: (+4) 0269 218.143 Open: Tuesday -- Sunday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (wintertime 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.) Admission charge Sibiu History Museum is housed in the Old Town Hall (Primaria Veche) , which dates to 1470 and boasts typical Transylvanian gothic civil architecture. Information and objects which illustrate the long and rich history of Sibiu and the region, from Neolithic and Roman times to the present, are presented. An unique collection of fine silverware is also on display.

Muzeul de Istorie Naturala Address: Str. Cetății 1 Tel: (+4) 0269 213.156 Open: Tue. – Sun. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Admission charge One of the oldest and richest of its kind in Romania, this museum was founded by the Transylvanian Association of Natural Science ( Siebenburgischer Verein für Naturwiessenschaften in German) in 1849. An astronomic observation centre also is located here.

Muzeul de Etnographie si Arta Populara Saseasca "Emil Sigerus" Address: Piata Mica 12 Tel: (+4) 0269 218.195 Open: Tue. – Sun. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. (wintertime 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.); Admission Charge Collections of painted furniture, costumes-textiles-embroideries and pottery, initiated by Emil Sigerus, the most important collector of Transylvanian Saxon Folk Art at the end of the 19th century. Emil Sigerus museum also includes the original collections of the Carpathians Transylvanian Museum or MSVK opened in 1895 by the Siebenbugishen Karpathenverein Association.

Muzeul de Arme si Trofee de Vanatoare Address: Str. Scoala de Inot 4 Tel: (+4) 0269 217.873 Open: Tue. – Sun. 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. (wintertime 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.); Admission charge Founded in 1966, the museum features a collection of weapons, medals and stuffed animals. Some of the exhibits are over 100 years old, such as the hunting trophies brought after a long safari in Africa by Colonel Spiess, who was a Master of Hunting of the Royal House of Romania.

Muzeul de Etnografie Universala Franz Binder Address: Piata Mica 11 Tel: (+4) 0269 218.195 Open: Tue. – Sun. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. The Franz Binder collections, housed in the "Hermes House" (initially called "The House of the Small Handicraftsmen's Association") built between 1865 and 1867, were established in the 19th century through donations and acquisitions from travelers and collectors. The permanent exhibition, "From the art and culture of the world – the people of the world," displays objects from various parts of the world, including northern Africa and the springs of the Nile, China, Japan, Oceania, Asia Minor, Brazil, Lapland and Australia.

Muzeul de Istorie a Farmaciei Address: Piata Mica 26 Tel: (+4) 0269 218.191 Open: Tue. – Sun. 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Admission charge Housed in a 16-th century building where the oldest pharmacy in Romania, La Ursul Negru (The Black Bear), operated for over 150 years, this museum showcases some 6,000 pieces of medical equipment from the 16th to the 19th centuries, coming from chemist shops and hospitals. Sibiu had more chemists than any other town in Transylvania. The collections of the museum cover the whole range of medical instruments, from surgical pouches, microscopes, different bowls made of wood, china, glass, bronze mortars, stands with balances and weights in the Viennese style to the oldest piece of the collection, a 1597 bronze mortar used for preparing medicines. At the front, a reconstructed shop is decked out with wooden Viennese counters and stacks of glass jars creating the atmosphere of an 18-th century "apoteka" (German for "pharmacy").

Muzeul Locomotivelor cu Aburi Address: Str. Dorobantilor 22 Tel: (+4) 0269 431.685 Admission charge Sibiu Steam Engine Museum displays 23 standard gauge steam engines, 10 narrow gauge steam engines, three snowplows and two steam cranes. The steam engines were built between 1885 and 1959 in Romania (at Resita and Malaxa Factories in Resita respectively Bucharest), Germany (Henschel, Borsig, Schwartzkopff) and USA (Baldwin). The museum is located accross the street from Sibiu train station.

Sibiu Romania

Performing Arts

Sibiu State Philharmonic Filarmonica de Stat Sibiu Address: Str. Cetatii 3-5 Tel. (+4) 0269 210.264 Weekly classical music concerts take place in Thalia Hall, a concert hall dating from 1787.

Radu Stanca National Theatre Teatrul National "Radu Stanca" Address: Bd. C. Coposu 2 Tel: (+4) 0269 210.092 Radu Stance is one of the Romania's leading theatres, with origins dating back to 1787. Both Romanian-language and German-language productions are presented (five shows a week, average).

Gong Theatre Teatrul Gong Address: Str. Alexandru Odobescu 4 Tel: (+4) 0269 211.349 Specializing in puppetry, mime and non-conventional shows for children and teenagers, Gong theatre offers performances in both Romanian and German.

Attractions near Sibiu

Sibiu makes an ideal base for the exploration of the nearby countryside and villages which display an interesting mixture of Saxon and Romanian traditions.

Located at the foothills of the Cindrel Mountains, a half-hour drive from Sibiu, this region is considered one of Transylvania's best-preserved ethnographic areas. Marginimea Sibiului, meaning Borders of Sibiu, encompasses a string of 18 villages*, rich in architecture, history and heritage. Age-old traditions, customs and celebrations, as well as the traditional occupation of sheepherding, have been carefully passed down from generation to generation in the villages of this area. * The 18 villages are: Boita, Sadu, Raul Sadului, Talmaciu, Talmacel. Rasinari, Poplaca, Gura Raului, Orlat, Fantanele, Sibiel, Vale, Saliste, Gales, Tilisca, Rod, Poiana Sibiului and Jina.

Mărginimea Sibiului is easily accessible by train or bus. Trains from Sibiu to town of Sebes stop at Sibiel (25 minutes), Saliste (35 minutes) and Miercurea Sibiului (1hour and 15 minutes).

Village Rășinari, first documented in 1204, is the oldest in the region, followed by Talmaciu (1318), Orlat (1322) and Saliste (1354). Village Saliste claims the oldest church, housing beautiful interior frescoes (1674); Poiana Sibiului wooden church was built in 1771.

One of the wealthiest villages in the region, Rășinari, is famed for its local carpentry and sheep farming. The village has an interesting Ethnography Museum (open Tue. – Sun. 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.) and a painted Orthodox church built in 1752. The annual Pastoral Folklore Festival takes place on the third Sunday of April. Rășinari is connected to Sibiu by a roughly 4-mile tramline that crosses Dumbrava Forest. Trams to Rășinari run every 30 mins. at peak times (7 a.m. – 9 a.m. and 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.) and every hour for the rest of the day.

Muzeul de Icoane pe Sticla Painting on glass has been a tradition for 200 years in Marginimea Sibiului villages. In 1968, the founder of the museum, priest Zosim Oancea, started to collect 18-th and 19-th century icons richly painted on glass.  Today, the museum exhibits the largest collection of painted glass icons in Europe - more than 700, as well as furniture and ceramics.

Biserica Fortificată Cristian Where: 5 miles west of Sibiu Cristian Fortified Church info

Where: 6 miles south of Sibiu How to get here: bus or car Cisnădie (German: Heltau) was mentioned for the first time in a document from the year 1204 under the name "Rivetel." In the 12th century Saxon colonists settled here and in 1323, the German name Heltau is mentioned. During the centuries, the town flourished, particularly the guilds of sicklesmiths and wool weavers. Weaving remained the traditional occupation of the townspeople until the 20th century, when large textile factories were built. The Textile Museum (Expozitia Muzeala "Istoricul Industriei Textile") has a comprehensive coverage of this local industry. The museum, located at Str. Apararii 2 is open Mon. – Sat. 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The most important architectural site is the Cisnadie Fortified Church located in the town centre. A climb to the belfry offers a super view of Cisnadie's red rooftops and courtyards, while in the distance, nestled at the foot of the Cindrel Mountains, you can catch a glimpse of Cisnadiaora.

Cisnădioara Citadel

Where: village Cisnadioara, 2 miles west of Cisnădie and 8 miles south of Sibiu Cisnădioara (German: Michelsberg) is home to a historic Romanesque church dating from 1223 and a hilltop citadel, which frequently withstood Tatar attacks.   Locals often took cover in the citadel, which they defended by hurtling down rocks which had been carried to the top of the hill by aspiring husbands. Local lore says that no young man was marriage-worthy until he had carried a heavy rock from the riverbed up the steep track. In the centre of Cisnadioara stands an old baroque church and a small museum that exhibits beautiful collection of artifacts and tools from Saxon households.

Hosman -- Cornatel narrow-gauge railway

Where: Cornatel - 12 miles east of Sibiu Hosman -- Cornatel narrow-gauge railway info

Păltiniș - ski town

Where: 12 miles south west of Sibiu How to get to Păltiniș: car or Bus #22 from Sibiu railway station ( Gara ) Founded in 1894 by the Transylvanian Carpathian Society (S.K.V.), Păltiniș (German: Hohe Rinne) is Romania's ski town located at the highest altitude (4,724 ft. / 1,440 m). During the summer, Păltiniș attracts visitors with its beautiful scenery, fresh air and numerous hiking and mountain biking trails.

Other attractions near Sibiu:

Electricity Museum "Sigmund Dachler" - Sadu. In 1896, the first hydropower plant in Romania and the third in Europe was opened near town of Sadu, 12 miles south of Sibiu. Orlat Fortress (1317) Săliște Culture Museum in Săliște Dacian Fortress near village Tilișca Dobarca Fortified Church (13th century)

Sibiu Romania

Day Trips from Sibiu

Where: 25 miles southeast of Sibiu How to get here: car, tour bus The TransFagărășan is open - weather permitting - July 1 or late June until October 31). This winding road that climbs to 6,700 ft. above the sea level features long S-curves, steep ramps and descents and offers breath-taking views around every one of its many twists and turns. DN7C (national road 7C), also called Transfăgărășan, begins 25 miles east of Sibiu, when it branches south, off the road Sibiu to Brasov and heads to town of Pitesti, crossing the towering Făgăraș Mountain range. This two-lane road connects two historic regions of Romania: Transylvania and Walachia.

The TransFagarasan has more tunnels and viaducts than any other road in Romania. In the vicinity of the highest point, at Lake Balea (Balea Lac) , the road passes through Romania's longest road tunnel (about 2880 ft; 900 m), the only road connection over Fagaras mountains range.   The difference between the north and south sides of Fagaras mountains is apparent. While on the northern side the landscape is barren and alpine as the road makes its way up an amazing glacial valley, on the southern side the road drops gradually through pleasant green scenery. Visitors continuing to town of Pitesti can stop and visit the spectacular Vidraru Lake & Dam, the (real) Dracula Castle ruins in village Poienari and the stunning Curtea de Arges, 16th century monastery.

Where: Curtea de Arges - 85 miles south of Sibiu Hurezi/ Horezu: 92 miles south of Sibiu (or 135 miles via Curtea de Arges) How to get there: car Travel from Sibiu to Curtea de Arges, along Olt River valley to Curtea de Arges (optional stop Cozia Monastery), to visit the early 14-th century Princely Court and the Princely Church home to unique 14th-century interior frescoes. Next recommended visit is the stunning, 16th-century, Curtea de Arges Monastery (Manastirea Curtea de Arges) . Romania's kings and queens are buried here. * Legend says that Manole, the master builder, had to sacrifice his wife by embedding her into the southern wall to prevent the monastery from falling apart. Fifty miles west of Curtea de Arges stands Hurezi Monastery, the largest monastic settlement in Walachia, founded in 1690 by Prince Constantine Brancoveanu. A masterpiece of "Brancovenesc" architectural style and a UNESCO World Heritage site, monastery Hurezi is renowned for the richness of its sculptural detail, the treatment of its religious compositions and its painted decorative works. This place of worship houses precious collections of frescoes and icons dating from the end of the 17th century and the beginning of the 18th century. The nearby village of Horezu is home to one of the largest pottery centres in Romania. More than a century ago, local nuns taught the villagers how to make and paint pottery and ever since, people have come from far and wide to get their hands on Horezu ceramics.

Where: 32 miles north of Sibiu How to get there: car Valea Viilor fortifications info

Where: 45 miles northeast of Sibiu How to get there: car Biertan info

Where: 55 miles northeast of Sibiu How to get there: car, bus, train Sighișoara is, arguably, Europe's most beautiful, authentic, medieval citadel. Sighișoara info

Saschiz is a small village known for its traditional architecture, its UNESCO World Heritage Site Fortified Church (Biserica Fortificata Saschiz) and locally produced fruit and vegetable spreads. Where: 65 miles northeast of Sibiu How to get there: car or bus from Sighisoara Saschiz info

Where: 45 miles east of Sibiu How to get to Făgăraș: bus, train, car Fagaras info

Where: 85 miles east of Sibiu How to get there: bus or train Brașov info

Where: 95 miles east of Sibiu How to get there: car, bus from Brașov Hărman info

Where: 100 miles east of Sibiu How to get there: car, bus from Brașov Prejmer info

Where: village Bran, 105 miles northeast of Sibiu How to get to Bran castle, from Sibiu Bran Castle info

Where: 110 miles southeast of Sibiu How to get there: train, bus, car Peleș Castle info

Where: 35 miles northwest of Sibiu How to get there: Daily bus or train service from Sibiu Sebes info

Festivals & Events

Sibiu is Transylvania's town with the largest concentration of medieval buildings and the region's Cultural Capital. No other city in Romania is home to as many events, of all kinds and sizes. Major festivals hosted, anually, by the city of Sibiu include: Sibiu Jazz Festival (May) Sibiu International Theatre Festival (June) National Festival of Folk Traditions (August) Craftsmen's Fair (August) Sibiu Potters' Fair (September) ASTRA Ethnography Museum Film Festival (October) Sibiu Christmas Market (November - December)

More Sibiu festivals and events

Sibiu Romania

SIBIU TRIP PLANNING INFO

Sibiu transportation.

Sibiu is easily accessible from Bucharest (Bucuresti) : By plane (45 minutes), By train (approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes) or By car - via scenic routes over the Carpathians (approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes).

Sibiu International Airport - SBZ Aeroportul International Sibiu Address: Sos. Alba Iulia 73 Telephone: (+4) 0269 228.347 Sibiu airport is located 3.5 miles west of the city centre. Bus # 11 (to downtown) stops 300 yards away from passenger terminal. Map of bus #11 route and stops (bus line 11 is shown in purple).

Taxi service to downtown also available. Aproximate trip cost 30 Lei (RON) - approx $8.00.

Airlines with service to Sibiu include: Air Connect, Austrian Airlines, Lufthansa, Tarom and Wizz Air.

Sibiu Train Station Gara Sibiu Address: Piata 1 Decembrie 1918 nr.6 (0.6 miles west of Old Town) Tel: (+4) 0269 211.139

For the list of international trains with service to/from Romania please visit RomaniaTourism International Transportation section.

There are direct, trains from Bucharest, Brasov and Timisoara to Sibiu

To check train and bus schedules for domestic routes please visit RomaniaTourism Domestic Transportation section

Sibiu SNCFR - Train tickets advance booking office Sibiu Train Station Address: Piața 1 Decembrie 1918 nr. 6 Tel: (+4) 0757 565,447

Sibiu Inter-City Bus Stations

Bus Companies offering transportation to Sibiu, from abroad:

Atlasib Address: Autogara Turnisor Tel: (+4) 0269 218.125 Daily bus service to Germany, Austria, Sweden, Italy, Spain, France

Double T Address: Str. Nicolae Balcescu 1-3 Tel: (+4) 0269 217.497 Daily bus service to Germany, Austria, Italy, Switzerland

Eurolines Address: Blvd. Vasile Milea 13A Tel: (+4) 0269 212.248 Daily bus service to main cities around Europe

Pletl Agenture Address: Calea Dumbravii 10 Tel: (+4) 0269 216.143 Daily bus service to Germany

Trans Europa Address: Str. N. Balcescu 41 Tel: (+4) 0269 211 296 Daily bus service to Germany and Spain Note: All TransEuropa buses leave Turnisor Bus Terminal A

Amad Touristik Address: Calea Poplacii 58 Tel: (+4) 0269 212.227 Daily bus service to Italy, France, Spain and Portugal Note: All Amad buses leave from bus terminal located at Calea Poplacii 56 - 58

The fastest route from Bucharest to Sibiu is via A1/E81 : Bucuresti – Pitesti – Ramnicu Valcea – Sibiu

The fastest route from Budapest to Sibiu is on E75 - E68 : Budapest- Szeged - Nadlac - Arad – Deva – Alba Iulia - Sibiu

24 bus routes connect Sibiu’s neighborhoods and tourist attraction. Tickets can be purchased in advance at ticket booths or onboard, using a contactless debit or credit card. Trolleybus # 1 : Train station to Piata Unirii (city centre) Bus # A5 : Train station to Piata Unirii Sibiu public transport routes map .

companies that are offering bicycle rental in Sibiu include: Light Cycling www.lightcycling.ro and E-Bike Rentals www.ebikerentals.ro

Sibiu Bicycle Itinerary Ideas:

1. Sibiu Old Town ( 2 miles ) Continental Forum Hotel - Great Square (Piata Mare) - Old Townhall (Primaria Veche) - Bruckenthal Museum - Council Tower (Turnul Sfatului) - Little Square (Piata Mica) - Lies' Bridge (Podul Minciunilor) - Arts and Crafts Home (Casa Artelor) - Huet Square ( Piata Huet ) - Pasajul scarilor

2. Dumbrava Forest - ASTRA Museum ( 5 miles ) Sibiu Old Town - Dumbrava Forest (Padurea Dumbrava) - Sibiu Zoo (Gradina Zoologica) - ASTRA Museum (Muzeul Civilizatiei Transilvane ASTRA)

3. Cisnadie (15 miles) Sibiu - Cisnadie - Cisnadioara - Sibiu

4. Curmatura Strezii ( 22 miles ) Sibiu - Curmatura Stezii - Sibiu

5. Marginimea Sibiului ( 21 miles ) Sibiu - Rasinari - Gura Raului - Poplaca - Sibiu.

Taxis are still relatively inexpensive and widely available. Rates posted on passenger's front door are per kilometre.

Sibiu Car Rental

Autonom Address: Str. Nicolae Balcescu 1 Tel: (+4) 0269 235.538

Enterprise – Touring Rent Auto Sibiu Airport Address: Str. Alba Iulia 73 Tel: (+4) 0722 375.392

EuroCars Romania Sibiu Airport Address: Soseaua Alba Iulia 73 & Tel: (+4) 0727 373.799

Promotor Car Rental Address: Piata 1 Decembrie 1918 nr. 6 Tel: (+4) 0743 403.403

Sixt Address: Str. Nicolae Balcescu 17 Tel: (+4) 021 94.00 (this is valid, short, phone #)

Swiso: Sibiu Airport Address: Soseaua Alba Iulia 73 Tel: (+4) 0786 191.361

Sibiu Hotels

Accommodations in Sibiu include:

Nicolae Balcescu Street is the main commercial area where many shops, banks, coffee houses and restaurants are located.

Florile Transilvaniei Strada Turnului 6 Telephone: (+4) 0735 547.788

Ie Românească Strada Nicolae Bălcescu 9 Telephone: (+4) 0749 214.050

Deco Hobby Art Calea Dumbrăvii 121B Telephone: (+4) 0785 026.632

byRetroChique Strada Alexandru Papiu-Ilarian Telephone: (+4) 0733 383.538

Haine Rustice Artizanat Strada Nicolae Bălcescu 9

Shopping City Sibiu Strada Sibiului 5, Șelimbăr Telephone: (+4) 0369 439.444

Promenada Mall Strada Lector Telephone: (+4) 021 232.13.98

Dumbrava Department Store Piața Unirii 10 Telephone: (+4) 0741 322.848

Galeriile Comerciale Pacea Strada Nicolae Bălcescu 29 Telephone: (+4) 0770 644.769

Fresh Produce Markets ( Piața )

Discover local, authentic, foods and drinks by visiting Sibiu's fresh produce markets where farmers from the nearby villages sell fruits and vegetables, as well as local cheeses, fresh dairy and meat products:

Cibin Market Piata Cibin Open daily The largest fruit and vegetable market in Sibiu is located at the NW end of Strada Turnului , near Podul Cibin (Cibin Bridge).

Rahovei Market Piața Rahovei Open: daily Location: Strada Rahovei, neat the SE end of Bulevardul Mihai Viteazul .

Vasile Aaron Market Piața Vasile Aaron Open: daily Location: SE of the Old Town on Str. Semaforului.

Obor Flea Market Targul Obor Open: Tue., Fri. and Sun. Numerous vendors offer a great range of goods that attract numerous locals and visitors. Location: northern part of Sibiu at the intersection of Drumul Ocnei and Strada Oborul de Vite .

Hen Soup with Home-made Noodle (Supa de Gaina cu Taitei) (Pork) Meat Soup with Taragon (Ciorba de Porc cu Tarhon) Pork sirloin — Sibiu Style (Muschi de porc Sibian) Shepherd's Cheese Polenta (Bulz Ciobanesc) Grilled, salt-curred Mutton (Pastrama de Oaie)

Local Beers:   Artisan beers produced in Sibiu include:   Bere Sibiu ,    Augusta ,   Urban ,   Nembeer ,   Bere Artizanala 1717.

Sibiu Tourist Info

Tourist Information Centre - Old Town Sibiu Centrul de Informare Turistica Address: Str. Samuel von Brukental 2 Tel: (+4) 0269 208.913 E-mail Website Open: Mon. - Fri.: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Sat. - Sun.: 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

ASTRA Museum Tourist Information Center Address: Str. Pădurea Dumbrava 16 - 20 Tel: (+4) 0756 085.795 E-mail Website Open: May -- September:  10 a.m. - 8 p.m., daily October -- April:  9 a.m. - 5 p.m., daily

Sibiu General Emergency phone#:   112 (Ambulance, Police, Fire Department)

Sibiu Pharmacies & Hospitals

Sibiu Pharmacies (Farmacie) open 24 hours:

Polisano Pharma Bulevardul Mihai Viteazul 11 Telephone: (+4) 0269 421.418

SanMarco Alphega Strada Nicolae Iorga 52 Telephone: (+4) 0269 232.187

Eco Farmacia Bloc 20, Strada Constituției 23 Telephone: (+4) 0269 233.683

Hospitals in Sibiu

Emergency Clinic Hospital Spitalul Clinic Judetean Sibiu Address: Bd.Corneliu Coposu 2-4 Tel: (+4) 0269 215.050

Emergency Military Hospital Spitalul Militar de Urgenta Address: Bulevardul Victoriei 46 Tel: (+4) 0269 211.209

Sibiu Children's Hospital Spitalul Clinic de Pediatrie Sibiu Address: Strada George Barițiu 3 Tel: (+4) 0269 217.810

Sibiu Local Authorities

Sibiu City Hall Primaria Municipiului Sibiu Address: Str. Samuel Brukenthal 2 / Piata Mica 23 Tel: (+4) 0269 208.800

Sibiu County Archives Directia Judeteana Sibiu a Arhivelor Nationale Address: Str. Arhivelor 3   Sibiu, postal code 550164   Tel: (+4) 0269 208.519 E-mail   Hours

Bureau of Consumer Protection Comisariatul Judetean pentru Protectia Consumatorilor - Sibiu   (ANPC) Address: Str. Dorului 21   Tel: (+4) 0269 234.458  

Sibiu Police Department Inspectoratul de Politie Judetean Sibiu Tel: (+4) 0269 208.800

Sibiu Main Post Office Oficiul Postal Sibiu Address: Str. Mitropoliei 14 Tel: (+4) 0269 323.179 Open: Mon. – Fri.: 7 a.m. – 8 p.m.   Sat.: 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Post offices display a postal horn symbol and the word Posta.

Telephoning Sibiu from Abroad International Access Code +4 (Romania country code) + 0269 or 0369 (area code) + six-digit telephone number.

Sibiu City Map - Harta orasului Sibiu

Sibiu Interactive Map

Romania Tourist Attractions Map - Harta Atractii Turistice Romania

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Sibiu Travel Guide: Top Things to Do and See

Planning a trip to Sibiu, Romania? Here is everything you need to know, from things to do and see in Sibiu to the best way to get there, where to stay, and where to eat.

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Table of contents

Is sibiu worth visiting, guided trips to sibiu, map of things to see and do in sibiu, check out the main squares, watch for the houses with eyes, visit the holy trinity orthodox cathedral, explore hidden stairways and passages, cross the bridge of lies, check out the historical buildings, go for a walk in the park, turnul sfatului, saint mary evangelical cathedral, muzeul național brukenthal, altemberger house -sibiu history museum, crama sibiul vechi, lumos – coffee and brunch, am pm specialty coffee & brunch, hug the mug, accommodation in sibiu, how to get to sibiu, dumbrava sibiului natural park, castelul de lut valea zanelor, don’t forget about travel insurance.

Sibiu is absolutely worth visiting. I believe it is one of Romania’s most beautiful cities, located in the historical region of Transylvania. With elements of German architecture dating to the Saxon settlers, beautiful churches, wide squares, and amazing restaurants, Sibiu is the perfect city to discover Romania’s rich history and traditions.

Sibiu Old Town

Before diving into all the things to do in Sibiu and the practical tips to make the most of your trip, I want to share a few guided tours you can easily do from Bucharest or Brasov.

These trips are ideal if you want to make the most of your time and meet other travelers. Unfortunately, traveling through Romania takes time. While we have buses and trains, the roads and railways are not in top shape.

If you can’t rent a car and don’t want to spend most of your trip on public transport, joining a guided tour is a great option. Here are a couple of great options.

2-Day Trip to Brasov, Sighisoara & Sibiu

This 2-day trip is the perfect choice to visit Transylvania from Bucharest. You’ll pass through the Carpathian Mountains, learn about the region’s history and customs, and spend the night in gorgeous Sighisoara.

The tour also includes stops in Sinaia, Bran, Brasov, and, of course, Sibiu. You’ll visit the magnificent Peles Castle, check out the renowned Bran Castle, and explore the charming historical center of Sibiu, where you can learn about the city’s history and visit its main landmarks. On the way back to Bucharest, you’ll drive through the Transfagarasan, one of the most impressive roads in the world.

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Guided Sighisoara and Sibiu Private Day Trip

If you’re staying in Brasov, this is the perfect day trip to explore Sibiu and Sighisoara. You’ll start by visiting the lovely Sighisoara Citadel before heading to Sibiu and exploring the historical center with an expert guide who will tell you about the city’s history and legends.

The tour takes a full day, starting early in the morning and ending in the evening. Note that it does not include any food and entrance fees to monuments. While it can be pricy for some travelers, it’s a stress-free way to visit two gorgeous cities in Transylvania in one day.

Sibiu travel guide

When to visit Sibiu, Romania

Honestly, any season is great for visiting Sibiu. If you travel there in summer, you may find it more crowded, but the weather is generally very nice, sunny but not too hot. Winters, on the other hand, can be very cold, but you can experience the lively Christmas atmosphere and may even find snow.

Shoulder seasons are probably the best for a good balance of good weather and fewer crowds. Late spring and early fall are the best times for nice weather. I was there at the end of September, and it was chilly in the mornings and evenings but overall very nice, with very few people around.

Sibiu things to do

Before diving into the things to do and see in Sibiu, here is a map with an overview of everything I have included in this guide.

Best free things to do in Sibiu

If you’re traveling on a tight budget, there’s a lot of stuff you can do in Sibiu for free. The city is gorgeous, so simply wandering around is a great way to spend a day in Sibiu.

Sibiu has two main squares in the historical center, very aptly named Small Square and Large Square. The Large Square, the city’s most important square, is surrounded by colorful medieval buildings and landmarks like the Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church and Brukenthal Museum.

The small square is connected to the Large Square by a passageway under a 13th-century tower, known as Turnul Sfatului (Council Tower). The square is much smaller, as the name suggests, but just as beautiful, with beautiful buildings, cafés, and restaurants all around.

Large Square Sibiu

Don’t forget to look at the roofs for a unique feature of houses in Sibiu, especially the older ones. They call them the Eyes of Sibiu (Ochii Sibiului in Romanian) and are small windows built into the roof that look like eyes watching you through slightly open eyelids.

This quirky feature of Sibiu’s houses is one of my favorites. The eyes started appearing on the houses around the 15th century but became more widespread in the 19th century. You can find these peculiar windows in other cities in Transylvania, but they are more prominent in Sibiu.

Sibiu Houses with eyes

The Holy Trinity Orthodox Cathedral , not to be confused with the Holy Trinity Catholic Cathedral, is a beautifully decorated church dating to the early 20th century. The church is free to visit and features stunning Byzantine architecture and colorful frescoes covering its interior.

The cathedral is just a short walk from the main landmarks, on Strada Mitropoliei. I highly recommend checking out the impressive interior, too.

Sibiu Orthodox Church

The historical center of Sibiu is filled with passageways, stairways, and hidden streets connecting the various squares. Some of the most charming passages are the Goldsmith’s Square Passage, connecting the Small Square to the Goldsmiths Square, and the Stairs Passage, passing behind the Saint Mary Evangelical Cathedral.

However, you can discover several other passages under historical towers and between buildings. The best way to find them all is to wander around and see where they lead.

Passage, Sibiu things to do

This small pedestrian bridge, dating to the 19th century, is among the city’s most legendary spots. The iron bridge connects the Small Square to Albert Huet Square.

The bridge was known as Liegenbrücke in German, which means lying bridge, given the absence of pillars to hold it. However, the name sounded similar to Lügenbrücke, which translates to the bridge of lies. From this misunderstanding, several legends surrounding the bridge started circulating.

According to the legend, if someone tells a lie while crossing the bridge, this will start shaking to make the liar fall. Another legend involves young men who studied at the military academy. They would make appointments with local girls on the bridge but never show up, leaving them waiting in vain. It was basically the local ghosting spot.

Other legends surround this unique bridge in Sibiu. But all stories aside, one thing is for sure. You can’t say you visited Sibiu if you didn’t cross this bridge. Aside from being an iconic spot, it offers a lovely view of the Small Square and its surroundings.

Bridge of Lies

Sibiu has a lot of medieval buildings with a rich history. Some of these were guild houses or belonged to important personalities. Most of these houses are in the Large Square or other spots around the old town.

Check out the beautiful Haller House, Filek Palace, and Lutsch House in the Large Square and the Goldsmiths Guild House in the Small Square. But be sure to pay attention to other lovely historical houses too.

Large Square, Sibiu

Lastly, if the weather is pleasant during your visit, generally from late spring to early fall, you can enjoy strolling through one of the main city parks. The small Astra Park provides a peaceful setting for a pleasant walk on a hot summer day.

The Citadel Park is the most famous, developed around part of the city’s medieval fortifications. Here, you can check out three medieval towers and Sibiu’s Walk of Fame, dedicated to prominent residents.

Citadel Park, Sibiu travel guide

Must-see museums and landmarks in Sibiu

Turnul Sfatului , or Council Tower, is the go-to place for the best panoramic view of Sibiu. The 13th-century tower sits in a strategic location between the Small and Large Squares, so it offers a spectacular up-close view of the entire Old Town.

I recommend heading up in the afternoon, at least 15 minutes before sunset to enjoy the view of Sibiu bathed in the golden light. However, the view is spectacular any time of the day. The entry is only 2 RON, which is less than 0.5€.

Sibiu view from Turnul Sfatului

There are two reasons why you should add Saint Mary Evangelical Cathedral to your Sibiu itinerary. First, the interior of the 14th-century church is as beautiful as its imposing exterior. Secondly, you can get a spectacular view from its tower.

The Gothic church is among the most famous of its kind in Transylvania. Access to the church and tower is only 15 RON, which equals around 3€, so it’s worth it.

Fun (but not so fun) fact: the four turrets on the church tower indicated that Sibiu had the right to apply capital punishment. In Latin, the high justice is known as “ius gladii,” and it translates to “the right of the sword.” This symbol appears in other churches in Transylvania, too.

Saint Mary Evangelical Church

Brukenthal National Museum is the most important museum in Sibiu, housing a vast collection of artworks, from Transylvanian works to Italian, Flemish, and Dutch paintings.

Aside from the permanent collection, the museum also houses temporary exhibitions. Brukenthal Museum is on a corner of the large Square and is open from Wednesday to Sunday. The entry ticket is around 10€.

Brukenthal National Museum

If you’re curious about the history of Sibiu and the surrounding region, head to the History Museum. Housed in the 13th-century Altemberger House , the museum traces the history of Southern Transylvania from the Paleolithic Period to the 20th century.

The collection includes the Roman and Medieval Lapidarium, the Arms and Armours section, the Treasury, the Glasswork in Transylvania, and the Guilds of Sibiu, among others. The entry fee is around 7€ for adults.

Restaurants and cafes in Sibiu

This is among the most popular restaurants in Sibiu Old Town, serving a variety of Romanian and international dishes, from hearty meat-based recipes to burgers and pasta. If you want an ample choice of dishes, this is the go-to place in Sibiu.

This popular restaurant close to Citadel Park is the go-to place for heartwarming traditional dishes like sarmale (cabbage rolls filled with meat and rice), various Romanian soups, polenta, and much more. Remember to leave some space for the traditional papanasi (fried dough balls with sour cream and sour cherry jam).

If you’re a fan of brunch, smoothie bowls, and nourishing veggie bowls, head to Lumos. This café, a stone’s throw from the Large Square, serves great specialty coffee and delicious brunch, including vegan options.

Whether you want a good coffee, a slice of cake, or a delicious breakfast, AM PM is a great spot away from the business of the Old Town but within walking distance. I love the jungle-inspired yet sleek design and chill atmosphere.

Hug the Mug is a delightful little café on Strada Nicolae Bălcescu, one of the main streets in Sibiu Old Town. This is the perfect place for a classic breakfast with coffee and croissant or to enjoy an afternoon pick-me-up while taking a break from sightseeing.

Sibiu Old Town

I find that your best bet for accommodation is Sibiu is a small apartment or a boutique hotel, especially if you want to stay close to the Old Town. The big brand hotels are farther from the center, and I find they lack the traditional charm of the older buildings. But that’s a personal choice.

Here are three top-rated options close to the major landmarks in Sibiu, one for every budget.

Budget stay

If you’re traveling on a tight budget and like staying in hostels, B13 Hostel is the perfect choice. A short walk from the Large Square, this hostel offers spacious rooms, a nice common area, and a kitchen.

If you can spend a bit more, Arhivelor Apartment has delightful small apartments right next to the Large Square. The completely furnished apartments have everything from heating and WiFi to the coffee machine, but the best feature is the central location.

For a luxury stay in the heart of Sibiu, check out MAGISTER seven . You can choose between large rooms, suites, and luxury apartments, all in a renovated historical building close to the Small Square.

I always use Booking.com to find accommodation, so I always recommend it. Check out more options in Sibiu on the map below:

Sibiu is easy to reach from other nearby cities like Brasov, Bucharest, and Cluj-Napoca.

The easiest way to travel in Romania is by car. Most people fly to Bucharest and rent a car to explore other areas. If you choose this option, I recommend checking Discover Cars for various rental options and competitive rates.

If you don’t want to rent a car, you can get to Sibiu by train or bus. The only downside of taking public transportation in Romania is that it tends to be slow. The roads are not in tip-top shape and the trains are quite old. Still, I have recently traveled but train and bus and it’s not too bad.

If you plan to travel by train, I recommend checking either the state railway CFR Calatori or the private Regio Calatori . The private is usually cheaper but has fewer rides.

If you want to catch a bus, you can find several options on Autogari .

Sibiu Old Town

Lastly, I recommend Skyscanner for finding the best flights to Romania. Sibiu has an international airport with several flights to many European destinations. However, for more choices, you can fly to Bucharest.

Things to do near Sibiu

Just southwest of Sibiu, Dumbrava Sibiului Natural Park is a protected area with beautiful nature covering a vast forested area. The natural park is better known for the ASTRA Museum of the Folkloric Civilization, a recreation of rural Romania, with museums dedicated to local history and ethnology.

Dumbrava Sibiului is a delightful place to spend at least half a day exploring the trails, enjoying the fresh air, and visiting the ASTRA Museum. If you stay longer than a couple of days in Sibiu, this is the perfect place to visit within a short distance of the city center.

If you have a car, there’s a fairytale place less than one hour away from Sibiu you shouldn’t miss. Castelul de Lut Valea Zanelor , which translates to The Clay Castle Fairy Valley, is a charming castle of recent construction made from clay and sand, immersed in the beautiful landscape of Southern Transylvania.

Everything at Castelul de Lut is handmade in Romania, from the structure of the unique castle to the furniture. While you can’t yet visit the interior or spend a night in this magical place, you can walk around the gardens and admire the view.

Sibiu Old Town

Organized day trips from Sibiu

Alba iulia and corvin’s castle.

Corvin’s Castle is one of Romania’s most beautiful castles, though lesser known than the most popular Bran and Peles Castle. This Alba Iulia and Corvin’s Castle tour includes a visit to this charming castle and the historical center of Alba Iulia, a city known for its Habsburg citadel.

The tour lasts all day, including a guided visit around Alba Iulia, free time to see more of the city and have lunch, and a visit to Corvin’s Castle. Given the poor train connections to these places, joining an organized tour is the best way to visit these unique places in Transylvania. 

Timisoara Day Trip

Timisoara consistently ranks among Romania’s most beautiful cities. Located in far western Romania, close to the Serbian and Hungarian borders, Timisoara is the third-largest city in Romania.

Want more reasons to visit Timisoara? The city is the European Capital of Culture in 2023, with Elefsina in Greece and Veszprém in Hungary. If you can’t dedicate an entire trip to Timisoara, join this day trip from Sibiu and discover the city’s highlights, including Victory Square, the Synagogue, the Catholic Cathedral, and the Union Square.  

Transfagarasan and Balea Lake

One last trip worth considering from Sibiu is this scenic tour that includes driving along the winding Transfagarasan Highway, admiring the beautiful Balea Lake, and visiting the ruins of Carta Monastery.

Transfagarasan is Romania’s most famous and spectacular road. The winding road crosses a section of the Carpathian Mountains and leads to the glacial Balea Lake. This is undoubtedly one of Romania’s most beautiful natural areas. Unfortunately, the Transfagarasan Highway is only open in summer, given the harsh weather conditions in winter.

View from the Bridge of Lies

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SafetyWing is a great choice if you want to visit multiple countries at once. Find out more about the insurance coverage and sign up here . I also wrote a detailed article about SafetyWing if you’re looking for more reasons to get this insurance.

Nomad 2.0 Insurance by SafetyWing

That’s about it for this Sibiu guide, I hope you find it useful and interesting. If you visit Sibiu, let me know your thoughts in the comments. 

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Hi, I'm Roxana! I am a travel writer trying to see as much of the world as possible and share with you my stories and travel tips. Thank you for reading and following me, I'm so happy to have you here!

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The Globetrotting Teacher

15 Splendid Things to Do in Sibiu Romania

Are you traveling to Romania and looking for the best things to do in Sibiu? 

You’re in luck! Sibiu is my Romanian love and it was totally unexpected.

After arriving on a train from Brasov to Sibiu, a taxi dropped my backpack and me in Sibiu’s Upper Town. As I wandered around trying to orient myself and find my hotel, I gazed up at the imposing Gothic Cathedral and the colorful houses in beautiful decay lining the tiny streets.

In this guide, you’ll find:

  • what to do in Sibiu,
  • how to get to Sibiu, and
  • where to stay in Sibiu, Romania. 

15 Splendid Things to Do in Sibiu, Romania- Are you planning a trip to Romania? Discover a medieval gem in the heart of Transylvania! Plan some time in your Romania itinerary for Sibiu. Use this guide to plan things to do in Sibiu, where to stay, how to get around and day trips from Sibiu. #travel #romania #sibiu #transylvania #medieval #europe #easterneurope #europetrip #europetravels #europeantravel

I didn’t know at the time all the things to do in Sibiu or that it had been voted the 8th most idyllic place to live in Europe in 2008 by Forbes. It was just a sense as a traveler that I’d landed in a place I was going to have a hard time leaving.

Sibiu has grown outward since it’s 12-century beginnings, and luckily, its charm and appeal has only increased, as well. The heart of the city is its medieval center complete with open squares, stone wall defenses, towers, and centuries-old buildings and churches.

Sibiu Romania

Staircases separate the Lower Town from the Upper Town, and historically, the wealthier Saxons lived in the city center while the peasants lived in Sibiu old town, down the steps in small, colorful houses.

Sibiu Passageway Romania

There are quite a few historical and touristic things to do in Sibiu. But, stay longer in town to stroll (with an ice cream, of course!) and soak up the ambiance of this medieval gem in the heart of Transylvania.

1. Begin in Piata Mare (a.k.a. Big Square).

Sibiu Romania

Sibiu’s Upper Town is a logical starting place.

You won’t be able to help but make your way into the wide-open expanse of Piata Mare. The square has been Sibiu’s center since the 15th Century. Today, Piata Mare is home to several Sibiu attractions, restaurants, and cultural events like concerts and festivals.

Since Sibiu is not as well-known as other European destinations, a guided Sibiu walk will help you learn more about the city’s highlights and history.

Or, if the Medieval vibe of Sibiu has sparked your curiosity, set off on a self-guided quest to discover the city’s 7 towers. You’ll get clues that’ll reveal the location of your next stop!

ProTip: La Taifas is a restaurant in Piata Mare with outdoor seating. I loved(!) their polenta with cow’s milk cheese paired with an eggplant salad side.

2. Learn about Romanian art at the Brukenthal Museum.

Located in the Piata Mare, the Brukenthal National Museum is an art museum within the palace of Samuel von Brukenthal, a former Transylvanian Governor.

The museum displays work by Romanian artists and European artists, but the architecture and furnishings of the palace itself are as much the draw as the paintings.

I loved getting a close-up look at the Anatolian carpets and learning more about the style of Romanian artists throughout history.

Sibiu Romania

3. Visit one of Sibiu’s 3 religious landmarks.

The Catholic Basilica, also   located in Piata Mare, is deceiving for its simple outside appearance.

Take time to look at the beautiful inside of this historic landmark. You’ll appreciate the historical context of the different groups of people who settled in Sibiu, the Saxons, the Hungarians, and the Romanians, and their respective places of worship all within walking distance from one another.

Sibiu Romania

4. Stroll down Strada Nicolae Balcescu.

The main pedestrian thoroughfare leading away from the Piata Mare is Strada Nicolae Balcescu. It’s lined with ornate pastel buildings vying for your attention and competing with the cascading flower displays in full bloom on the windows and balconies.

Sibiu Romania

5. Taste a local Romanian treat.

As you stroll, grab a Romanian pretzel called a Covrigi. You’ll notice locals and visitors alike seem almost worry-free as they walk with a small treat in hand enjoying Sibiu’s peaceful atmosphere.

They’re also perfect to take as snacks as you travel around Romania whether you’re catching a train, driving into the countryside, or hiking into the mountains .

Romania Covrigi

6. Stop to admire the art in the Orthodox Cathedral.

The Orthodox Cathedral is a can’t miss while in Sibiu.

If you visited the smaller Orthodox monastery in Sinaia , you’ll recognize the characteristic murals and frescoes covering the walls, but on a much grander scale.

Sibiu Romania

7. Climb the Council Tower for pretty views.

Retrace your steps back through the Piata Mare to the white Council Tower.

The Council Tower dates back to the late 1500s and sits in the passageway between the Piata Mare (Big Square) and Piata Mica (Small Square).

Climb the stairs for fantastic views overlooking the city. You can and should also climb to the top of Sibiu’s Lutheran Cathedral (see below), but the view from the Council Tower lets you admire and photograph the Cathedral’s glistening tiled rooftop.

Sibiu Romania

8. Walk around the Piata Mica (a.k.a. Small Square).

After descending the Council Tower steps, Piata Mica and the Bridge of Lies await. With the steeple of the Lutheran Cathedral hovering overhead, a view into Sibiu’s Lower Town, and the beautiful decay of the colorful buildings, this is one of the prettiest spots in Sibiu.

On certain days, look for a local craft fair.

Sibiu Romania

9. Make a short visit to the Pharmacy Museum.

Sibiu’s Pharmacy Museum, located in the Piata Mica, has 2 rooms packed with pharmaceutical artifacts.

If you like to visit quirky sights on your travels, this is the place. Your short visit will surely leave you feeling grateful to have escaped medieval pharmaceutical instruments and procedures.

Sibiu Romania

10. Cross the Bridge of Lies.

Legend has it the Bridge of Lies has ears and knows when someone standing on it is being untruthful. Tales of creaking and noises when someone is lying have survived centuries of history.

Today, it’s the perfect spot for a photo-op…and 100% honesty, just in case!

Sibiu Romania

11. Visit and climb Sibiu’s Gothic Lutheran Cathedral.

Continue into Huet Square with the imposing Cathedral filling the square. Take a circular path around the square to discover historic houses before rounding to the entrance of the stunning Cathedral.

Sibiu’s Lutheran Cathedral dominates the cityscape with its steeple reaching over 200 feet into the air. If you’ve visited Brasov prior to Sibiu, you’ll probably know the 4 turrets around the steeple were a sign to medieval visitors about the town’s right to sentence you to death should you step out of line.

The gothic Cathedral was built in the 14th-century and is really well-preserved. After touring the cathedral, climb the tower for gorgeous views of Sibiu.

Sibiu Romania

12. Wander through Sibiu’s Lower Town.

As pretty as Upper Town is, look for stairways and passageways leading you to Lower Town, like the Stairs Tower in Huet’s Square…

Sibiu Stairs Passageway Romania

Or the stairs passageway, accessed by walking out of Piata Mare toward the Lutheran Cathedral, where you can see some of the Sibiu’s old fortifications. You won’t have truly seen Sibiu without a visit to Lower Town.

Sibiu Romania

Once in Lower Town, you’re in the oldest areas of Sibiu. Explore the tiny streets with their two-story medieval buildings painted in all shades of the color wheel. Be sure to bring your camera!

Sibiu Romania

In Lower Town, look for small squares, hidden alleyways, and scenes of daily life, like kids playing in the street or an older woman sweeping a step while a scrappy dog struts past.

Sibiu Romania

13. Stare back at the houses with eyes.

By now, you’ll have spent enough time in Sibiu to notice the houses with eyes.

Structurally speaking, they’re ventilation windows to air out attic heat. However, throughout periods of political strife and oppression, locals believed they were being watched by the “eyes” to ensure they were not acting out or causing trouble.

Sibiu Romania

14. Laze away a late afternoon in one of Sibiu’s cafes.

I loved the outdoor cafe just on the side of the Bridge of Lies. It was a great spot to people watch, listen to live music, and take in my surroundings.

The outdoor courtyards at Max and also at Jules make for perfect spots to eat and tuck yourself away into Sibiu’s hidden nooks.

Sibiu Romania

15. Go beyond Sibiu.

Sibiu is perfectly situated at the doorstep of the Carpathian M ountains and the untouched countryside of Romania. You can hike and truly go back in time seeing villages that haven’t changed for hundreds of years.

Pro Tip – If you do plan some hiking, make sure you’re prepared on what to wear and what to bring on a hike !

It’s also easy to plan day trips to a medieval castle, like Corvin Castle . Of course, if you haven’t seen Brasov and Dracula’s Castle yet, you can plan this day trip from Sibiu, as well.

Sibiu Romania

Whichever you choose, make sure your visit to Sibiu includes time to explore the natural beauty just outside of town. What’s even better, you can take part even without renting a car.

Transylvania Cycling offers one-day and multi-day cycling excursions that depart from Sibiu. You can also get help and equipment for a self-guided ride if you prefer. Mihai is a friendly and knowledgeable guide who loves to help visitors experience traditional life in Romania .

Whether you’re a skilled cyclist or just someone like me who likes to go on occasional bike rides, the team at Transylvania Cycling can put together the right experience for you.

I met Mihai at a park in Sibiu and from there we went into the countryside and past fields of wildflowers.

Romania Wildflowers

We saw plenty of traditional Romanian haystacks…

Romania Haystack

…and rode our bikes along dirt roads with horses and wooden carriages.

Romania Wagon

We stopped in an Orthodox Church in a small village nearby…

Rasnari Eastern Orthodox Church Romania

…and even met a local woman who tried to explain what some of the paintings on the outside of the church symbolized.

Romania Woman

By the end, my legs were tired. But, Mihai was more than happy to accommodate my need to walk alongside my bicycle for a while. More than anything, though, I was so grateful for the day with Mihai and his local insight.

The Astra National Museum Complex is a living open-air museum just a short city bus ride outside of Sibiu.

In fact, it’s the largest museum of its kind in all of Europe. The museum has more than 400 monuments, including mills, wooden churches, and traditional homesteads to preserve and educate visitors about the Romanian culture.

Sibiu Romania

As you walk along the museum’s pathways, you’ll see people in traditional dress working in the fields and at the homesteads using scythes and other manual farming tools.

Sibiu Romania

If you don’t have enough time or transportation to explore the Romanian countryside, this gem of a museum will transport you back in time and give you a glimpse of daily life in Romania.

Sibiu Romania

As with so many areas of Romania , the museum was quiet and gave the impression of a new discovery. Spend the day exploring Astra’s expansive collection spread out over 98 acres at your own pace.

You’ll undoubtedly come away with a deeper appreciation for the local culture.

Where to Stay in Sibiu

Sibiu hotels are well-equipped to make visitors of all travel styles comfortable. The medieval city center is an ideal location for getting around on foot. You’ll easy access to all of the things to do in Sibiu and excellent food choices nearby.

I stayed at the Pensiunea Chic Hotel and loved everything about it. The location was just down the steps from the Lutheran Cathedral and the Liar’s Bridge. The rooms were clean and modern. The hotel had a quaint outdoor courtyard and the staff was friendly and helpful! Check latest prices in Sibiu.

Apartment rentals in Sibiu are also a great option whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly stay, enough room for a group, or just prefer local digs. 🙂

How to Get to Sibiu

You can take the train from Bucharest. A direct journey will take about 5 1/2 hours. There are several direct trains daily from Brasov taking about 2 1/2 hours. Local trains connect Sighisoara and Cluj to Sibiu as well.

There is also a small airport that connects Sibiu with other European cities, like Rome , Munich, and Vienna ,  on carriers TAROM, Lufthansa, and Blue Air.

So, have you fallen in love with Sibiu? Which things to do in Sibiu would like to do?

Like this post? Please share it on social media using the share buttons below.

15 Splendid Things to Do in Sibiu, Romania- Are you planning a trip to Romania? Discover a medieval gem in the heart of Transylvania! Plan some time in your Romania itinerary for Sibiu. Use this guide to plan things to do in Sibiu, where to stay, how to get around and day trips from Sibiu. #travel #romania #sibiu #transylvania #medieval #europe #easterneurope #europetrip #europetravels #europeantravel

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52 thoughts on “15 splendid things to do in sibiu romania”.

sibiu travel highlights

I loved Sibiu, but didn’t get to spend enough time there. I can’t wait to go back.

The current President of Romania, Klaus Iohannis, taught physics at the German language high school (also named for Brukenthal) just off the Piata Mare.

sibiu travel highlights

Thanks so much for reading, Jack. I’m so glad you’ve made it to Sibiu and hope you get to go back soon! Love the fun fact about the President, too. 🙂

sibiu travel highlights

I haven’t heard of Sibiu before. It looks like a very picturesque town with many things to do. I am planning a trip to Romania so I think I should include it on my itinerary. I would certainly love to climb the Council tower for the views. I love to climb to high points in each new place I visit.

Definitely include Sibiu, Chrysoula. It’s just a short train ride from Brasov and even more charming.

You may also want to visit Sigișoara, another beautiful old medieval city, and Alba Iulia, which has a great combination of Roman, medieval, Hapsburg, and modern influence.

Sighisoara is great, too! Thanks for the tips, Jack. 🙂

sibiu travel highlights

When I go back to Romania, Sibiu is on my list. A lot of people have told me how pretty this town is, your photos have confirmed this. Great post 🙂

Thanks so much for reading, Danik. Hope you make it to Sibiu soon! 🙂

sibiu travel highlights

Oh, wow! I love everything you’ve shown us about Sibiu. For some reason, my impression of Romania does not involve such vivid color. It’s gorgeous! I’d love to just walk around the Upper Town square, explore the Bridge of Lies and, of course, sample some of that incredible looking pizza in a cafe. And, of course, I want to explore the cathedrals and the small square. Ha! I guess I just want to see it all!

Thanks so much for reading, Patricia. That’s how easy it is to fall in love with Sibiu! Glad you’ve added it to your travel list. 🙂

sibiu travel highlights

What a charming town. I’ve never heard of Sibiu but I will certainly love to visit. The staircase between the upper and lower parts of town is so picturesque.

All the more reason to plan a trip soon, Christina. Sibiu and many parts of Romania still are waiting for that big tourism push.

sibiu travel highlights

This my first impression of Romania as a tourism destination. Sibiu looks like a charming medieval place with lots to offer! Thanks for sharing

Thanks for reading, Cristina. Yes, Romania is a fantastic tourism destination. I hope you can plan a visit to see Sibiu. 🙂

sibiu travel highlights

This kinda reminds me of Tallinn. It looks and feels the same but nontheless Romania is still pretty. Love the food and I would definitely climb up for that view. I also like the orthodox cathedral.

I haven’t been to Tallinn yet but would love to visit, Karla. Definitely, put Romania on your travel list. It’s a true gem.

sibiu travel highlights

How awesome! One of my besties is from Romania and she was here with me when I was reading this post. She went on and on abotu the places you mentioned that she had grown up with during her first 30 years in Romania. Brought back so many great memories and we loved reading how cool the country is now. 😉 Thanks for sharing.

That is so cool, Melody! So glad the post created such a great sharing experience for you and your bestie. 🙂

sibiu travel highlights

Wow, WHAT a medieval gem! Definitely sounds like a hugely underrated part of Europe, I can see why you fell in love. The streets and buildings are so beautiful with their colors, and centuries old architecture, and I love the churches and cathedrals throughout – they’re stunning! I really love visiting places of worship in new parts of the world, even if I don’t subscribe to their particular religious beliefs, these are always the most ornate and interesting buildings. Usually with a fascinating history attached too 🙂

Thanks for introducing me to Sibiu – a new one for the bucketlist 🙂

When you’re there, it’s really interesting to see how close all 3 places of worship are to one another, Meg. Each definitely has its own story to tell. I really hope you can make it to Romania and see Sibiu. 🙂

sibiu travel highlights

I’ve never heard of this town in Romania, but it seems like a place to go! I’m hoping to visit Romania for the first time next summer, and Sibiu has to be on that list! The lower town looks absolutely stunning!

Absolutely, Paige! Sibiu is a must if you’re in Romania. 🙂

sibiu travel highlights

I will definitely add Sibiu on my Romanian getaway. Such a stunning place to wander around and finding little gems dotted around the area.

Sibiu is so worth it, Anneklien! Enjoy your trip. 🙂

sibiu travel highlights

Hi, Jackie! I think you offer some great tips about the most important highlights in Sibiu. It’s definitely a great travel destination for a city break or even for a longer trip. Other great areas to visit near Sibiu are in the “Marginimea Sibiului” – a group of villages with a unique ethnological, cultural and historical heritage.

Thanks for the tip, Luminita! I wish I’d known about those villages. Its always great to have a reason to return. ?

sibiu travel highlights

Very interesting read and the photography is visually captivating. One of the most beloved and celebrated gymnast in Olympic history is a native of Romania. Nadia Comaneci earn 7 perfect 10’s at the 1976 Games in Montreal, Canada. When you mentioned the Carpathian Mountains it brought back memories of Nadia’s birthplace.

Thanks for reading, Ronald. I’m glad you liked reading about Sibiu.

sibiu travel highlights

Hi Jackie! Thanks a lot, eh! Your post was quite useful for me now that I’m planning a trip to Sibiu for next week. I have only one question to ask you: do you know any place where I can have great Covrigi? I know I will be able to get them almost anywhere –as I read on your post–, but do you know any local shop/bakery particularly good for these treats?

Thanks again, Cheers!

Hi Tomas, Thanks for reading! I didn’t have a favorite shop for covrigi. But, I did go to one bakery a few times on Strada Nicolae Balcescu. It’s on the right-hand side if the Piata Mare is behind you. Hope that helps! Enjoy Sibiu! Jackie

sibiu travel highlights

I visited Sibiu recently and I managed to do most of the things on the list. There are one or two that I missed, so it’s the perfect excuse to go back again. The reason for my visit was primarily for the 7 day Saxon Transylvania Tour run by Transylvania Cycling. Tour guides Mihai and Radu are very knowledgeable about their beautiful country and go out of their way to ensure you have the best experience ever.

Thanks for reading, Chris! Going back to Sibiu is definitely a good thing. 😉 Glad you had a great time with Mihai and Radu. I only met Mihai but had a great tour with him.

sibiu travel highlights

I found this post only now, but I wanted to thank you for your lovely words! I’m happy to hear that you had a great time here! I have been living in Sibiu for 13 years and I can assure anyone that the locals are very friendly and the city is very rich in history. I also recommend visiting it during one of the festivals that are usually held during the late spring-beginning of summer in the city’s center. The International Theater Festivals is one of the most beautiful and popular. There are also Medieval Festival, Film Festival, Food Festivals, Jazz Festival and many others. In December in the Big Square is the Christmas Fair, a lovely place to buy gifts. I also recommend visiting my birth town, Alba-Iulia, which was at first a fort build by the Romans with the name Apulum and it later became a medieval citadel. I wish you good fortune in your travels and I hope you will visit Romania again soon!

Thanks so much for reading, Ioana! I appreciate your kind words and local tips. I’d love to come back to Sibiu and spend more time there. The Theater Festivals sound great! You’re lucky to live in such a fantastic city. 🙂

sibiu travel highlights

Ioana & Jackie,

I can’t express enough how thankful I am to have found this amazing information about Sibiu. I am traveling to Sibiu with my husband, 2 kids, my sister (Dacia), her husband and 2 kids (all ages 9-12) August 11-14 and this is immensely helping me plan our time there!

We will be traveling to Garbova (where my great-grandparents grew up) for a day to meet family we’ve never met before! But while in Sibiu those days I wonder if you can recommend any festivals or special things that might be happening the days we will be there, or even sights to see along the way from Sibiu to Garbova.

Thank you for any further insights you can offer! I am beyond excited for this travel experience!

Thanks so much for reading, Galen, and I’m so glad the Sibiu guide is helpful! Sibiu is such a special place. I’m sure you and your family will love it. How great to include meeting family, too, while you’re in Romania. As for events, I would recommend checking out the Sibiu Tourism event calendar for the days you’re there. I hope you have a great trip!!

sibiu travel highlights

Thanks for this great post! We – myself, husband, seven-year-daughter and two-year-old son- are in Sibiu and today we followed most of your list around the town. What a gorgeous place! Great list, lovely town, many thanks.

Thanks for reading, Floss. I’m so glad you enjoyed Sibiu! It is such a lovely town. Thanks for sharing about your trip. Enjoy the rest of your time in Romania. 🙂

sibiu travel highlights

Incredible post about this beautiful city. I currently write a post about day trips from Brasov. Do you mind when I link to this post when I write about Sibiu?

Thanks so much for your kind words, Pia. You can certainly link to my Sibiu post. Appreciate it. 🙂

sibiu travel highlights

They really need more info in english. Everything is in German – everything! It is Hard to understand the history, dispite studying it for 3 years.

Nice city but not a lot of smiles from the locals.

A lot of things to see but not do.

Sorry, you had that experience, Phillip. I had the complete opposite. But I do agree there could be more things in English in the museums. Thanks for reading.

sibiu travel highlights

Thanks for a lovely, insightful, accurate and up-to-date post. We’re here now and will be exploring some of your suggestions (should have read your post PRIOR to coming here). Also thanks for your post on Brasov – it was also very helpful. Nicely written and amazing pictures. Let us know when you come to Cape Town 😉

Thanks so much for reading, Jean-Paul. 🙂 I’m so glad the Sibiu and Brasov guides have been helpful. Enjoy your time in Romania. Hopefully, I’m lucky enough to make it to Capetown soon.

sibiu travel highlights

Thanks a lot for your article about Sibiu. We arrived here late last night with our two toddlers and are looking forward to explore Sibiu in winter. It just snowed so I guess it will look a bit different than when you visited. I found your blog whilst researching what to do here. Happy travels to you!

Thanks for reading, Sabine. Enjoy Sibiu! I imagine it looks so pretty with a covering of snow. 🙂

sibiu travel highlights

‘Been there, done that’ years ago and now it’s looking very likely that I will get to experience Sibiu again this July! Hopefully this time I might take a daytrip to see Bran’s castle. Last time I opted to go on a hike and take a scenic tour of the carpathians in liu of going to Bran’s, and really enjoyed doing so. A few local friends told me Bran’s is kind of boring, but so are the historic things ‘local’ to me, only because I have seen them many times.

Thanks for reading, VW. I hope you enjoy your return trip to Sibiu. 🙂

sibiu travel highlights

This was interesting. I am reading about this part of the world in Patrick Leigh Fermor’s “Between the woods and the water”. Think I will have to visit one day!

Thanks for reading, Jane. Romania is a gem. Thanks for the book tip, too!

sibiu travel highlights

An amazing medieval walled city – absolutely beautiful, interesting, easily walkable and I can’t wait to return. We went from strolling around in tee shirts in the square to snow in the mountains within a couple of hours. Go visit!

Thanks for reading, David! I’m glad you had a great visit to Sibiu. It is a beautiful place for sure. 🙂

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Travel Away

12 Unmissable Things to Do in Sibiu, Transylvania

A city of merchants, artisans, and layers upon layers of culture, Sibiu is small in size but big in character. Within its beautifully preserved old town are grandiose Baroque palaces, charming café-lined squares connected through narrow medieval passages, and plenty of cozy, chef-driven restaurants to tempt you en route.

Remodeled by Saxons in the 12th century, the city has a decidedly Germanic-Austrian flair, with pretty, colorful houses spilling down wobbly cobblestone streets, a growing calendar of cultural festivals, and maybe a bit more serenity than any other place in Romania.

For a journey back in time, wander the steep medieval lanes and arched stair passages of the Lower Town, then let Sibiu’s sleek brunch spots and third-wave coffee shops take you back to contemporaneity. Summers here are for peaceful escapes into the bucolic Transylvanian surroundings and lazy afternoons sipping homemade elderflower cordial at pavement terraces, while gloomy days are best spent in the comfort of a dimly lit bookstore or perusing the city’s galleries and museums.

Regardless of what brought you here in the first place, whether it’s the idyllic medieval architecture, the blossoming food scene, or a raved-about festival, make sure you’re not missing out on any memorable sights and stops with our guide to the best things to do in Sibiu.

Stroll along Cetatii Street

Most beautiful street in Sibiu

Dubbed the most beautiful street in Sibiu, Strada Cetatii (Fortress Street) is flanked by the city’s best-preserved medieval walls and three still-standing 14th-century defense towers: Turnul Archebuzierilor (Archers’ Tower), Turnul Olarilor (Potters’ Tower), and Turnul Dulgherilor (Carpenters’ Tower).

Lined with elegant, pastel-colored houses, it’s an extremely pleasant place for a stroll, especially on a sunny autumn afternoon, when the leaves in the adjacent park have turned into a kaleidoscope of gold and burnt orange. If you’re hungry, stop by the chic Pardon Cafe for a comforting soup in cozy, antique-laden surroundings.

Hang out in Piata Mare

Piata Mare, Sibiu

Nestled in the heart of the old town, Piata Mare (Grand Square) is hard to miss. Once the setting of civil gatherings, public executions, and a cereal market, this open rectangular plaza is now bustling with life day and night: well-dressed elderly people on their way to church or the market, happy little kids launching breadcrumbs in the midst of a sea of pigeons, curious tourists on guided sightseeing tours, and downtown employees keen on grabbing a coffee and a bite to eat from one of the many cafés and restaurants surrounding the square.

Framed by elegant Baroque and Art Nouveau buildings, this is a treasure trove of must-see sights and attractions, but also a lovely place to relax and get a feel of the local life. In December, the square is transformed into a festive holiday wonderland as the famous Sibiu Christmas Market takes over.

Have a coffee at Lumos

Lumos Coffee and Brunch, Sibiu

A stylish coffee and brunch place situated on a corner just off the main square, Lumos is mostly popular with locals who come for the delicious all-day breakfast and freshly brewed specialty coffee – served either outside on the sunny terrace or in the elegant light-filled space decorated with blonde wood furnishings and soft velvet seats.

Aside from classics like smashed avocado, egg on toast, and pancakes, the menu also features original creations such as duck breast with mashed edamame and pickled chives, or spicy shakshouka accompanied by local sourdough bread. The coffee comes from SLOANE, a Bucharest-based micro roastery, and is among the best you’ll find in Sibiu.

Look for the eyes of Sibiu in Piata Mica

Piata Mica, Sibiu

The Large Square (Piata Mare) may be the heart of Sibiu, but the Small Square (Piata Mica) is its soul. As the former commercial center of the city, the area is an enchanting mélange of colorful 15th-century buildings topped by creepy eyelid-shaped windows.

Called “the eyes of Sibiu”, these peculiar architectural features built into the roofs act as ventilation systems for the houses’ attics, though many locals will tell you that their true purpose was to give them a feeling that they were always being watched during the communist regime.

Conspirations aside, the Small Square’s historical buildings, with their typical arched loggias, provide a quaint backdrop for perusing cute craft boutiques, taking a leisurely stroll, or enjoying an alfresco meal at one of the cozy café terraces dotted around. Also here, you’ll find one of Sibiu’s most iconic landmarks, the Bridge of Lies.

Pay a visit to the oldest museum in Southeastern Europe

Brukenthal National Museum

Opened to the public in 1817, the Brukenthal National Museum in Sibiu is one of the oldest art galleries in the world. It comprises six different museums spread throughout the city, each with its own specialty and cultural program.

The most famous is probably The Art Galleries branch, housed inside the 18th-century Brukenthal Palace, the Baron’s former residence, on the west side of Piata Mare. In addition to a remarkable collection of artworks belonging to the main European schools of painting, the museum also includes pieces of religious Transylvanian art, a unique Gothic exhibition, and a splendid collection of reception rooms festooned with sumptuous Viennese chandeliers, elaborate woodwork, and spellbinding oriental decorative art.

While here, don’t miss the Brukenthal Library in the back inner courtyard of the palace, which is home to a staggering 280,000 volumes, including Incunabula, Rare Romanian and European books, as well as a notable manuscript collection comprising the Brukenthal Breviary and a Vigiliale on parchment dating from 1507.

Dine at Plai

Plai Restaurant, Sibiu

If you only have time for one proper dinner in Sibiu, let it be at Plai . Tucked away on a narrow cobblestone street in the Lower Town, this gem of a restaurant specializes in creative Romanian cuisine with an emphasis on seasonal, local produce and contemporary techniques. The menu is wonderfully designed, with each inspiring dish telling a story about the surrounding lands and revealing a mesmerizing symphony of tastes and textures. If you get the chance, try the trout with garlic puree and charcoal sauce – it’s brilliant!

Get lost in the Lower Town

Lower Town, Sibiu

Connected to the Upper Town through steep cobblestone lanes and secret medieval stairways, the Lower Town is perhaps the most characterful slice of Sibiu’s historic center. Though not as popular with visitors as the Upper Town, the area is steeped in history and rustic charm, with its quaint little squares and colorful old houses, some of which have been gloriously revamped and turned into chic guesthouses, exquisite restaurants, or craft boutiques.

At night, the golden glow of street lamps adds to the quaint vibe, while in winter, a dusting of snow turns the medieval scene into a Christmas card-worthy sight.

Brunch at Charlie’s

Sidewalk cafe in Sibiu

Charlie’s Specialty Coffee is the kind of place anyone would be glad to have in their neighborhood. Sitting casually on a picturesque corner in the Lower Town, it’s cool, cozy, and delightfully unpretentious; no wonder it has become a staple for coffee lovers and brunch-hungry Sibieni who descend on its rustic sun-drenched terrace for its hearty fare, velvet-like single-origin espressos, and tasteful vinyl tunes. Sourdough avo toasts, generously filled bagels, and exotic poke bowls rule the menu, but the homemade dessert selection is equally tempting and not to be missed.

Marvel at the Clay Castle

Clay Castle of the Valley of Fairies

Set in the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains, about 30 km outside the city, the Clay Castle of the Valley of Fairies makes for a wonderful day trip from Sibiu. Established in 2004 by a Bucharest couple, the imaginary structure, with its arched entrances and fanciful wooden roofs that appear to melt down the smooth undulating contours like a cone of ice cream on a hot summer day, seems straight out of a storybook.

The castle, which is entirely constructed from natural, organic materials like clay, straw, sand, and wood, was meant to be a hotel, but for now, it only serves as a tourist attraction where visitors from around Romania and beyond flock to marvel at the fanciful architecture and take in the outstanding natural beauty of the area. There’s also a nice souvenir shop, a kids area, and an outdoor terrace serving traditional Romanian food prepared with carefully selected organic ingredients.

Have drinks at House of Ellixirz

Ellixirz Cocktail Bar, Sibiu

There’s no better way to conclude a day of sightseeing in Sibiu than with an expertly crafted cocktail – or three! – at House of Ellixirz . Though small, this boutique cocktail bar perched on a medieval stairway has a classy gentlemen’s club vibe, with parquet floors, heavy velvet curtains, and subtly lit local art hanging off the dark walls. Bottles of rare spirits sit glistening behind the polished wooden bar while sultry jazz (sometimes soft rock) fills the room, adding to the cultured ambiance of the place.

The bar is located on the steps of Strada Turnului (Tower Street) behind the gothic Lutheran Cathedral and is open every day, except Monday, from 4:00 pm till midnight.

Visit the ASTRA Museum

ASTRA Museum

A 96-hectare open-air museum located on the outskirts of Sibiu, ASTRA provides an insight into the rural Romania of yesterday. Almost 10 km of alleys meander through valleys and hills dotted with traditional houses belonging to various Romanian provinces and architectural styles, including windmills, traditional fishermen’s homes from the Danube Delta, and typical houses where winegrowers or wealthy shepherds used to live.

The staggering ethnographic ensemble comprises over 400 properties, household annexes, and technical installations, as well as two man-made lakes where visitors can rent boats to paddle around the tranquil waters. Various workshops, food fairs, and concerts are organized here throughout the year, especially on weekends and public holidays.

Sip wine at Wine Not?

Wine shop in Sibiu

Nestled in a small, atmospheric plaza in the Lower Town of Sibiu, Wine Not? provides a cozy, welcoming setting for socializing over good wine and tempting small plates. The menu, although full of gems from all over the world, including France, Italy, Spain, and the New World, remains a love letter to Romanian wines, singing the praises of white Transilvanian varietals and small family-owned wineries that would be hard to find on your own.

There are over 20 varieties by the glass and 600 by the bottle, and the food offering includes delights such as local cheese platters accompanied by freshly baked bread, walnut jam, homemade Angus beef pastrami, and Mangalita sausage crumble. The staff is knowledgeable and passionate about making thoughtful recommendations, while the pocket-size terrace outside, overlooking a water fountain and decorated with string lights, provides an idyllic spot for people-watching on a warm summer evening. Not into wine? No worries, their craft beer and freshly roasted specialty coffee are pretty amazing, too.

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Windmill from Constanta County at Museum of Folk Civilisation in Astra, Sibiu, Romania, Europe

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Sibiu is awash in aristocratic elegance. Noble Saxon history emanates from every art-nouveau facade and gold-embossed church. Renowned composers Strauss, Brahms and Liszt all played here during the 19th century, and Sibiu has stayed at the forefront of Romania’s cultural scene through its festivals of opera, theatre and film, as well as rock, jazz and more. The country's first hospital, school, library and pharmacy were all established here, and locals are justly proud of the spirit of enterprise that endures to this day.

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

St Mary's Evangelical Church

St Mary's Evangelical Church

Sibiu's Gothic centrepiece rises more than 73m over the old town. Inside, marvel at ghoulish stone skeletons, 17th-century tombs and the largest organ in…

Brukenthal Palace

Brukenthal Palace

Brukenthal Palace is worth visiting as much for its resplendent period furnishings as for the European art within. Duck beneath the Music Room’s…

History Museum

History Museum

This impressive museum begins with re-enactments of cave dwellers squatting in the gloom and dioramas of Dacian life. Out of these shadowy corridors, the…

City Walls

Thirty-nine towers, each protected by different guilds, watched over medieval Sibiu. See the remaining handful by walking north up Str Cetăţii past the…

Pharmaceutical Museum

Pharmaceutical Museum

On the site of Sibiu's first documented apothecary, this museum delves into the herb-scented history of medicine. More than 6600 items such as microscopes…

Natural History Museum

Natural History Museum

Ornate ceilings flanked by moose heads make this Natural History Museum worth a peep for its 19th-century architecture alone, while the dinosaur garden…

Bridge of Lies

Bridge of Lies

The 1859-built iron bridge is nicknamed the Bridge of Lies. Depending on who you ask, it stems either from tricky merchants who met here, or young lovers…

Council Tower Sibiu.

Council Tower

The former Council Tower links Piaţa Mare with its smaller sister square, Piaţa Mică. First built in the 13th century, and refortified in the 16th, it has…

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  • Travel tips

Best Things to Do in Sibiu Romania Alone: One day in Sibiu

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Sibiu is a small medieval town in Transylvania in Romania. The city is known for its culture, history, and Transylvanian Saxon architecture . It was named the European Capital of Culture in 2007 and is an important craft and cultural centre in Romania .

It is also known as “ The City of Eyes ” due to its unique architectural features on the roof of houses in Sibiu . Wherever you go, these “eyes” are always following you. Very unique and maybe a bit creepy.

And because there are so many things to do in Sibiu Romania, you might want to stay in the historic city for a few days. But if you are only spending a day in Sibiu or doing a day trip from Brasov or Sighisoara , it is also possible. Follow my itinerary at the bottom of the post and learn how you can spend one day in Sibiu.

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sibiu travel highlights

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. If you buy something through them, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost. Thank you for supporting this website. For more information, please read the disclosure for more info.

What you need to know before you visit Sibiu, Romania

Before you visit Sibiu, take a look at some of these useful travel tips first:

  • Romanian leu  (plural: lei) is the currency of Romania.  RON  is the three-letter code for the Romanian currency. 
  • If you are taking a day trip from Brasov or Sighisoara,  arrive in Sibiu by 9am  so you can comfortably follow my itinerary at the end of the post.
  • The Transylvanian Citadels Medieval Festival (end of summer) – travel back in time during this medieval event
  • Sibiu Internațional Film Festival  (end of May) – the world’s third-largest theatre and performing art festival.
  • Sibiu Christmas Market (mid-November to the first week of January) – Romania’s most popular Christmas market

How to get to Sibiu Romania

The best way to get to Sibiu is by taking the  Romanian Railway, CFR Călători .

And if you are only doing a  day trip to Sibiu , it is possible to see the city  from Brasov or Sighisoara . Here are the  recommended train schedules  for both cities. Check the CFR Călători website  for more information.

Train from Brasov to Sibiu

  • Brasov to Sibiu : 6:20 am to 8:56 am (2 hour 36 mins), direct train
  • Sibiu to Brasov : 4:30 pm to 7:29 pm (2 hour 59 mins) or 8:28 pm to 11:23 pm (2 hour 55 mins), direct train
  • Cost:  48.2 lei  (second class), 68.9 lei  (second class)

Train from Sighisoara to Sibiu

  • Sighișoara to Sibiu : 7:07 am to 9:19 am (2 hour 12 mins), direct train
  • Sibiu to Sighișoara : 5:31 pm to 7:14 pm (2 hour 8 mins), direct train
  • Cost:  33.8 lei  (second class)

16 Things to Do in Sibiu Romania on your own

There are three parts to Sibiu : Old City (the historical centre of Sibiu), the Lower Town (north of Old City) and Upper Town (south of Old City). Most attractions are in the Old City, but I recommend wandering around Lower and Upper Town as there are many excellent places to visit.

And Sibiu is a small city, so you can definitely walk to the attractions listed below.

Without further ado, here is my list of the 16 top things to do in Sibiu for a solo traveller.

Places to visit in Sibiu: Lower Town and Upper Town

1. climb up turnul sfatului to see an aerial view of sibiu.

One of the best ways to see Sibiu is to climb up to Turnul Sfatului (The Council Tower) and see the medieval city from the top.

The tower was built in the 13th century and was originally used as an entrance gate to the fortified city. It has been rebuilt as parts of the upper floors have collapsed over time.

Today, the Council Tower houses various exhibitions and has a clock mechanism near the top. And when you climb up 141 steps, there is an enclosed viewing platform with four windows facing all sides of the city. And this is where you can see a panoramic view of Sibiu, including Piața Mică , Piața Mare and the Evangelical Church .

The entrance to the Council Tower is the small door facing Piața Mică next to Pasajul Pielarilor (Tanners Passage) .

Entrance of Turnul Sfatului

Address : Piața Mică 1, Sibiu |  Hours : 10am-8pm | Admission: 2 lei

2. See if the Podul Minciunilor collapses when you tell a lie

Podul Minciunilor (The Bridge of Lies) is Romania’s first cast iron bridge. It is decorated with Neo-Gothic motives and hovers over Strada Ocnei , the main street to the Lower Town.

But what is so special about this bridge is its myths and stories surrounding it. Legend says that the pedestrian bridge will collapse if you stand on the Bridge of Lies and lie about something. And back in the day, when merchants tried to cheat their clients, the ones caught would be tossed off the bridge.

Whether these legends are true or not, the Bridge of Lies is worth checking out.

Podul Minciunilor

3. Explore Piața Mică

Sibiu has three main squares, one of which is Piața Mică (The Small Square). This was the former artisans’ market since many buildings have a loggia, a semi-open hallway with semicircular arches. Goods were displayed for craft workshops.

Today, the 17th-century houses around the perimeter of the square are converted into cafes, restaurants, hotels and museums.

Here are some of the notable buildings that you should check out while you are roaming around Piața Mică:

  • Turnul Sfatului (The Council Tower) – see #1
  • Muzeul de Farmacie (Pharmaceutical History Museum) – this was Sibiu’s first pharmacy in 1494. Today, it is home to a hostel and a museum displaying over 6,000 vintage homeopathic and pharmaceutical instruments, lab utensils, documents, etc. Admission is 10 lei.
  • Podul Minciunilor (The Bridge of Lies) – see #2
  • Turnul Scării Aurarilor (Goldsmith’s Stairway Tower) – see #8
  • Casa Artelor (Arts House – Butchers Guild Hall) – was the oldest guild house in Transylvania. Today, the space is used for contemporary art and exhibition for different cultural events.
  • Casa Luxemburg – renovated as a hotel.
  • Casa Hermes – it houses the Franz Binder Museum . The facade looks like a castle.

Piața Mică

4. Look for the iconic Sibiu “eyes” in Piața Mare

Next to Piața Mică is Piața Mare (The Big Square) , which is also the heart of Sibiu. The old public square has been around since the 14th century and was once filled with different economic activities, citizen meetings, fairs and even executions.

You may have noticed the Sibiu “eyes” in the Small Square already, but it is so much more apparent when you stand in the middle of the Big Square.

These iconic eyes are roof windows used for ventilating the attic where meat, cheese and other types of food were stored. They come in various sizes and shapes, but the most common are the trapezoid windows resembling the human eye. This is why Sibiu is nicknamed “The City of Eyes.”

And once you spot these “eyes,” it will seem like they are always following you. It’s a bit creepy. Ha!

Sibiu Eyes

5. Explore Piața Mare

Besides having these eyes following you around the Big Square, check out some of these highlights around the old square:

  • Muzeul Național Brukenthal (Brukenthal National Museum) – opened in 1817, the museum complex comprises six museums scattered around Sibiu. Over 1,200 pieces of European artwork from the 15th to 18th centuries are at this location.
  • Sibiu City Hall – a grandiose building with elements of Art Nouveau. Sibiu Tourist Info Center is part of the building.
  • Biserica Romano-Catolică Sfânta Treime (Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church) – one of the most notable Baroque churches in Transylvania.
  • The Hecht House – a historical and architectural monument.
  • Lutsch House – another historical monument.

Piața Mare

6. Climb up the other watch tower at Catedrala Evanghelică din Sibiu

Catedrala Evanghelică din Sibiu (The Evangelical Cathedral of Sibiu) is a 14th-century Church famous for its Gothic architectural style, massive 73m-high tower and the largest organ in the southeastern region of Europe.

The price of admission includes a guided walk through the church’s interior and a climb to the top of the watch tower. At the top, you can see a close-up of the bright roof tiles and look back at the Council Tower and the surrounding areas.

On the way out, check out the Statue of Bishop Georg Daniel Teutsch in front of the church. It is a bronze statue of a famous Transylvanian historian and a Lutheran bishop.

And if you visit Sibiu during the summer, check out the organ concerts every Wednesday night.

Catedrala Evanghelică din Sibiu

Address : Piața Albert Huet, Sibiu |  Hours : 9am-8pm Monday to Saturday and 11:30am-8pm Sunday | Admission: 10 lei for church, 10 lei for the tower, 20 lei for both church and tower

7. See Stapul Calfelor in front of Casa Calfelor

During the 21st century, many journeymen travel to Sibiu to teach and learn different trades, including carpentry, goldsmithing, stonework, etc. The Evangelical Church gave these journeymen accommodation while they restored the area.

These journeymen met at Casa Calfelor (The House of the Journeyman) , which has a history of developing and honing different crafts between the 14th and 16th centuries. Casa Calfelor is the first of its kind in Eastern Europe.

And whenever the journeymen leave Sibiu, they must leave a coin, beer cap, or some personal item made of metal on a wood stump called Stalpul Calfelor (The Journeymen Pillar) . This is a tradition for wishing them luck on their upcoming travels.

I’m not quite sure of the hours of operation for the House of Journeymen, but there are often workshops just outside the house.

Stalpul Calfelor at Casa Calfelor

8. Walk down to the Lower Town via one of the three access gates in the city wall

Sibiu was a fortified city, and many parts of the wall are still intact around the city. And when you are going to the Lower Town, you’ll likely walk through one of these three access gates.

Turnul Scării Aurarilor (Goldsmith’s Stairway Tower) is a tower in the crenellated wall with a narrow staircase between Piața Mică and Piața Aurarilor in the Lower Town. The access gate is accessible via the vaulted passage.

Near the Evangelical Church is a stone and brick passage called Pasajul Scărilor (The Stairs Passage) . Built in the 14th century, the access gate, including the stairs and arches, was built to connect the Old City and the Lower Town.

And nearby in Piața Albert Huet next to Casa Calfelor, you will find Turnul Scărilor (The Stairs Tower) . This was one of the oldest construction in Sibiu and the only preserved tower gate.

All three access gates are quite interesting and very Instagrammable.

Looking down Turnul Scării Aurarilor

9. Wander around the Lower Town

While many attractions in Sibiu are located in the Old City, the Lower Town is filled with colourful houses, historic buildings, local shops, cafes and restaurants .

The Lower Town is located north of the Old City beyond the fortified wall. The area is not as touristy and is one of the oldest parts of Sibiu.

Wander around and get lost in the narrow cobblestone streets. And walk over to Piața Cibin (Cibin Market) , a local market selling fresh produce, meat, cheese and local specialties. Prices are very reasonable since this is a market that locals frequent.

View of Turnul Scărilor from Lower Town

10. Take a stroll on Strada Nicolae Bălcescu

Strada Nicolae Bălcescu is a pedestrian street between Piața Mare and Piața Unirii (Union Square). This pedestrian-only street has many old buildings from the 19th century. Many are in the Baroque style or the eclectic architectural style.

While strolling on Strada Nicolae Bălcescu, you will find clothing, footwear, jewellery, and leather goods shops . There are also many al fresco restaurants and gelato shops .

Strada Nicolae Bălcescu

11. See the citadel towers at Parcul Cetății in Upper Town

Originally, there were 39 defensive towers, four gates and five artillery batteries in Sibiu. Today, you can only see two rows of fortified walls and the four towers in Parcul Cetății ( Citadel Park ).

As you stroll along the park from west to east, you will see these four citadel towers: Turnul Archebuzierilor (Harquebusiers Tower) , Turnul Olarilor (Potters Tower) , Turnul Dulgherilor (Carpenters Tower) and Turnul Fierarilor (Tinsmiths Tower) .

And between the Carpenters Tower and Tinsmiths Tower, there is a small visitor centre called Turnurile Cetatii . For 2 lei, you can see displays, read about the history of these towers, and walk on the fortified wall’s outer corridor.

Before you leave the park, check out the Sibiu Walk of Fame . Like the “Avenue of the Stars” in Hollywood, the stars on the pavement celebrate those who contributed to the fields of culture and arts in Sibiu.

Parcul Cetății and Turnul Fierarilor

Address : Strada Cetății, Sibiu |  Hours : 11am-7pm (closed Mondays) | Admission: 2 lei

12. Visit some of the best churches in Sibiu

There are many churches in Sibiu, and I’m only highlighting a few that are worth checking out:

  • Holy Trinity Cathedral – the second-largest Orthodox church in Romania. The Hagia Sofia in Istanbul inspires the church’s design, but there are traces of Transylvania church architecture and Baroque elements throughout the church.
  • Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church – while the Viennese Baroque church has a simple exterior, don’t miss the highly decorated interior.
  • Biserica Ursulinelor (The Ursuline Church) – the former Ursuline Monastery was originally built in a Gothic style but later adopted many Baroque architectural elements.

Holy Trinity Cathedral

13. Visit several unique museums in Sibiu

You can spend many days in Sibiu visiting different museums. But if you don’t have the time, there are a handful that you should check out.

  • Muzeul Național Brukenthal (Brukenthal National Museum) – see #5
  • Muzeul de Farmacie (Pharmaceutical History Museum) – see #3
  • Casa Altemberger (Sibiu History Museum) – It displays everyday life items in the Transylvanian region and various items that are part of the Guilds of Sibiu. Besides the displays, check out the two courtyards. Admission is 20 lei.

Casa Altemberger

What to do in Sibiu: outside of the city centre

14. day trip to muzeul astra.

Muzeul ASTRA, or ASTRA National Museum Complex , is Romania’s most important ethnographic museum . Founded in 1861, the ASTRA Museum is the largest open-air museum in Europe.

Spanning 96 hectares of land, the museum has over 10km of alleys and walks. Through workshops, animations, images, traditional music, an exhibition and 400+ reconstructed and original buildings , the museum illustrated the everyday life of the people living in Romania’s rural villages.

You can easily spend an entire day roaming the museum grounds, seeing traditional houses, and attending guided walks. Muzeul ASTRA is only 4km south of Sibiu. It is part of Dumbrava Sibiului Natural Park.

How to get there: Bus 13 from Sala Thalia to Muzeul Astra will take 15 mins ( see bus route )

Address : Strada Pădurea Dumbrava 16-20, Sibiu |  Hours : 8am-6pm | Admission: 35 lei

15. Drive on the Transfăgărășan Highway

Transfăgărășan is a winding highway in the southern section of the Carpathian Mountains in Romania. The road climbs to an altitude of 2,042m, making it the second-highest paved road in the country.

In the early 1970s, Nicolae Ceausescu ordered the construction of the winding road connecting the historic regions of Transylvania and Wallachia as a strategic military route.

Today, it is one of the best attractions in Romania, where people come here to drive on the winding road with many hairpin turns and sharp descents . It is also popular with hikers and cyclists.

If you are travelling to Sibiu between June and October , spend the day around Transfăgărășan and see Balea Lac , enjoy the gorgeous mountain scenery and take an Instagram photo at the highest point of the highway .

How to get there: Rent a car or get a bus transfer from Sibiu to Balea and see Transfăgărășan and Balea waterfall. 

16. Weekend trip to Sighișoara

Sighisoara is a small medieval town 2+ hours away from Sibiu. The city was founded in the 12th century by Transylvanian Saxons and is a part of the historical region of Transylvania. The city is known for its colourful houses, the UNESCO historic centre and its rich history in craftsmanship .

During a trip to Sighisoara, you can climb up the 64m Turnul cu Ceas (The Clock Tower) and see a panoramic view of the city. You can visit all nine watch towers that used to guard the city and visit the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, aka Dracula .

Following my Sighisoara guide and itinerary for an easy self-guided day trip.

How to get there: the CFR Călători train takes 2 hours and 44 minutes from Sibiu to Sighisoara

The Clock Tower at Sighisoara

One Day in Sibiu: Things to Do in 24 Hours

As you can see, there are so many fantastic things to do in Sibiu that you could stay a few days to enjoy them all.

But if you plan on spending only one day in Sibiu or visiting the city as a day trip , here is what I suggest. See the itinerary below and follow the numbered attractions in the interactive map.

  • Arrive at Sibiu train station and walk over to Biserica Ursulinelor (The Ursuline Church) on the way to the Old City
  • Walk through Pasajul Pielarilor (Tanners Passage) to get to the entrance of the tower
  • Climb up Turnul Sfatului (The Council Tower) and see a panoramic view of Sibiu
  • Check out Turnul Scării Aurarilor (Goldsmith’s Stairway Tower)
  • Casa Artelor (Arts House – Butchers Guild Hall)
  • Test the lie theory at Podul Minciunilor (The Bridge of Lies)
  • Casa Luxemburg
  • Casa Hermes
  • See the ornate interior of Biserica Romano-Catolică Sfânta Treime (Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church)
  • Sibiu City Hall
  • Muzeul Național Brukenthal (Brukenthal National Museum)
  • Hecht House
  • Lutsch House
  • Statue of Bishop Georg Daniel Teutsch
  • Take a tour of Catedrala Evanghelică din Sibiu (The Evangelical Cathedral of Sibiu) and climb up the watch tower to see Sibiu from another angle
  • Check out Pasajul Scărilor (The Stairs Passage)
  • See the workshops outside of Casa Artelor (Arts House – Butchers Guild Hall) 
  • Take a photo of Stalpul Calfelor (The Journeymen Pillar)
  • Walk down Pasajul Scărilor (The Stairs Passage) and come back up
  • Visit Holy Trinity Cathedral and see the gold and blue Byzantine interior
  • Walk around The Lower Town
  • Check out Cibin Market and maybe buy some snacks and fruits
  • Walk the entire Strada Nicolae Bălcescu from Piața Mare and Piața Unirii
  • Stroll through Parcul Cetății (Citadel Park)
  • Sibiu Walk of Fame
  • Turnul Archebuzierilor (Harquebusiers Tower)
  • Turnul Olarilor (Potters Tower)
  • Turnul Dulgherilor (Carpenters Tower)
  • Turnul Fierarilor (Tinsmiths Tower)  and see the small visitor centre at Turnurile Cetatii

Where to stay in Sibiu as a solo traveller

If you decide to stay more than one day in Sibiu, there are a few good accommodations in the city. I found an amazing apartment between the train station and the city centre. I highly recommend this Airbnb apartment.

But if you prefer a hotel, there is a quaint hotel option in the middle of the historic centre. Below are the details for both:

  • Check prices & reviews: Airbnb
  • Check prices & reviews: Agoda

Movilei15 Apartment in Sibiu

Where to eat in Sibiu Romania

Many restaurants and cafes lining Piața Mică and Piața Mare serve traditional Romanian food and other cuisines. But I found one on a small street, and it came highly recommended by other bloggers and YouTubers.

Check out some of these places to eat in Sibiu:

  • Crama Sibiul Vechi – try tochitura (peasant’s stew with beef and pork in tomato sauce, egg, cheese, and polenta), tapsa (polenta with cheese, pastrami and sausages), or balmos (polenta and cheese) at this highly-rated restaurant.
  • Kulinarium – a modern Romanian restaurant with patio seating at Piața Mică.
  • Crama Sibiană – enjoy traditional Romanian food in the basement cellar.
  • Butoiul de Aur – this is the oldest restaurant in Romania. It’s been around since 1542!
  • Lumos – have a coffee or cocktail at this modern brunch cafe.
  • Scufița Roșie – try a covrigi or gogoși at this popular bakery on Strada Nicolae Bălcescu.

Crama Sibiul Vechi

Are you ready to visit Sibiu, Romania?

I’m glad I decided to visit Sibiu while travelling solo in Romania. It is one of the cutest towns I’ve ever been to. Even though I only stayed two days, I truly enjoyed every minute.

I hope you enjoyed reading this post on Sibiu and will include the city in your next trip to Romania. Let me know in the comments if you are considering or have been to Sibiu and love the city as much as I do.

Thank you for reading my Sibiu Romania post

You may also like these other posts:

Romania posts

  • Romania 10-day itinerary for first-time travellers
  • Bucharest 1, 2 and 3-day solo itineraries
  • 25 Best Bucharest food: What and where to eat in Bucharest
  • Best things to do in Brasov in one day
  • Things to do in Sighisoara Romania: 1-day itinerary
  • How to spend one day in Constanta Romania

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sibiu travel highlights

queenie mak

Hi, my name is Queenie, and I've been a solo traveller for 20+ years and currently based in Hong Kong. Follow me on my adventures through Instagram and my blog!

Further Reading...

Things to do in Sighisoara Romania: The Clock Tower in Sighişoara

10 Things to Do in Sighisoara Romania and 1-Day Itinerary

The Black Church from The Council Square

Romania Itinerary: 10 Days Visiting Romania for the First Time

Best Bucharest Food: everything you want to try on a mixed grill platter at Vatra

25 Best Bucharest Food: Where and What to eat in Bucharest Romania

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Very interesting. Thanks for sharing 🙂 We might visit next summer and use Sibiu as a base (will spend 5 nights) to visit Sighisoara, Corvin Castle and Balea Lake.

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Hi Simon, I really enjoyed my time in Sibiu. I stayed two nights and was able to take my time around the city. Would’ve love to stay longer. And I like the apartment I stayed because it is walkable to everywhere in Sibiu. Hope you will have a good time! Happy travels!

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Sibiu, Romania Things To Do, See and Eat by JetSettingFools.com

Top Things To Do in Sibiu, Romania

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

Sibiu, Romania is an absolute gem! The Medieval town, once fortified with protective walls, is cheerfully painted in a rainbow of pastels. The expansive city squares are ringed with gorgeous architecture and the narrow, curving cobblestone lanes encourage wandering beyond the Sibiu center.

A top destination in Romania, Sibiu is a hub of incredible culture, fascinating history and exquisite gastronomy. To help fellow travelers discover the best of Sibiu, we are sharing our list of the Top Things To Do in Sibiu!

27 Best Things To Do in Sibiu, Romania

Best Sibiu Travel Tips, Romania

Ready to jump into our robust list of Sibiu things to see? For each sight on our Sibiu To Do List includes a brief description of the attraction. A helpful map of Sibiu, Romania is included at the end of the article.

Pin, Bookmark or Save this Sibiu Travel Guide to plan your trip to Romania!

#1 Take a Tour of Sibiu Old Town

Walking Tour of Sibiu Old Town, Romania

Touring the fairytale Old Town tops our list of the best Sibiu, Romania things to do. The oldest part of the city is stunningly beautiful. Visitors can join a tour or explore on their own; simply wander the lanes to see where they lead!

On organized tours, guests join a local guide on a 2-hour adventure through the best areas of Sibiu. Participants learn first-hand about life in the city and are regaled by tales of the past. Learn more here!

Pro Tip: Using our list of attractions (#3 through #20), visitors can create their own Free Self Guided Walking Tour of Sibiu.

#2 Stare Back at the Sibiu Architecture

Sibiu, Romania Architecture, City of Eyes

The architecture in Sibiu, Romania is unusual, in that the buildings’ rooftop windows look like eyes. According to legend, those eyes keep watch over the town, residents and visitors.

Truth be told, the oval-shaped windows, which protrude from the slanted and tiled rooftops, are simply a means of ventilating the attic space. Even so, it’s nearly impossible to walk past them without feeling their heavy gaze.

The odd design originated in Sibiu sometime during the 15th century. Today, the windows are a symbol of Sibiu and why it’s called, ‘The City with Eyes’. While sightseeing, we recommend staring right back at the beautiful old buildings and the Eyes of Sibiu!

Pro Tip: The Sibiu Eyes are legendary, but the city boasts an array of gorgeous buildings designed in various styles, including Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque. Marveling at the architecture is one of the top activities in Sibiu. 

#3 Step into Piata Mare

Big Square, Piata Mare, Sibiu, Romania

Piata Mare is a must-see in Sibiu! The Great Square (or Large Square Sibiu), is a magnificent open space that was created with the development of the third ring of fortifications. The spacious square in the Sibiu Upper Town has long been used as a central point for markets, speeches, events and even executions.

The Great Square is ringed by some of the city’s most stunning architecture, all of which is protected as historic monuments. The large square also hosts statues of Gheorghe Lazar (a Romanian scholar) and Samuel von Brukenthal (Governor of Transylvania in the late 1700s).

In the center is the small Fantana Falkenhayn Fountain (which remains from Medieval times) as well as a modern splash fountain for hot summer days. Visitors can also relax and get a bite to eat or cool drink from one of the many cafes and restaurants that offer outdoor seating on Piata Mare.

#4 Tour the Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church

Inside the Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church, Sibiu, Romania

Located on Piata Mare, the Holy Trinity Church – or Biserica Romano-Catolica Sfanta Treime – is one of the top Sibiu attractions…and it’s free to visit!

Built in the 18th century by Jesuits, the church interior features large pillars supporting the vaulted ceiling. The fresco behind the main altar was painted in 1777 – and other embellishments have been added since (such as the decorative altars and stained-glass windows).

The church welcomes visitors and the weekly mass is celebrated in three languages: Romanian, German and English.  

#5 Appreciate the Art at Muzeul Brukenthal Sibiu

Entrance to the Muzeul Brukenthal Sibiu, Romania

Featuring works of art by Transylvanian and European artists, the National Brukenthal Museum is a one of the top Sibiu things to see. The museum is situated in the historic palace that was built by Samuel Brukenthal. Opened as a gallery for public viewing in 1790 and officially as a museum in 1817, the Brukenthal ranks as the oldest museum in Romania.

Top features are the two art exhibits (Romanian and European), as well as a collection of antique furnishings in the palace apartments. Tickets are required and can be purchased on site. Like many Romanian museums, photos are not permitted without a special ticket.

#6 Climb the Sibiu Council Tower

View from the Council Tower Sibiu, Romania

The Council Tower – called Turnul Sfatului – is a top landmark and Sibiu sightseeing would not be complete without walking under – and up – the famous structure.

Built in the 12th century, the Council Tower stands on both the Great Square and the Small Square. The short passageway that runs underneath it connects the two spaces.

The tower has had a vast number of uses through the years – it served as a defensive gate, the city hall building, a wheat granary, a fire tower and an exhibition space. Today, for just a few Lei, visitors can climb the stairs 7-stories to the viewpoint. 

#7 See the Piata Mica

Vendors at Piata Mica, Sibiu, RO

Although Piata Mica means Small Square, it is actually rather large and slightly irregular in shape. The buildings in Piata Mica may lack the grandeur of those on Piata Mare, but the houses on the Small Square are distinct and beautiful.

Most of the Piata Mica homes have vaulted arches on the ground floor, where the workshops were located and products were displayed. Today, many of those workshops are now restaurants that have outdoor seating that spills into the square.

Piata Mica is one of our favorite places to visit in Sibiu, Romania in the late afternoon when the shadows begin to stretch across the square.

#8 Visit Huet Square and Cathedral of St. Mary

View of the exterior of Cathedral of St. Mary, Sibiu, Romania

Albert Huet Square marks the site of the original Sibiu center in the 12th century, although very little remains from that time. Today, what stands in the center of Huet Square is the Lutheran Cathedral of Saint Mary, one of the top Sibiu tourist attractions.

Built in the 14th century, the Evangelical Cathedral was long used as a place of burial for Sibiu’s most prominent citizens. The Gothic church boasts a towering steeple, reaching 240 feet in height, and a magnificently tiled rooftop.

For a small fee, visitors can go inside to see the stone-carved grave markers, look at the beautiful Baroque organ and climb the stairs to the top of the tower. In the summertime, the church hosts organ concerts, as well.

#9 Descend the Stairs Passage

Flow Cafe in the Stairs Passage, Sibiu, Romania

The Stairs Passage – or Pasajul Scarilor – is one of our favorite walkways in the city and a must when sightseeing Sibiu!

The stairs descend from the Upper Town into the Lower Town on the outside of the early brick fortifications. Arching over the cobblestone walkway are two flying buttresses – an original design that today stands as a charming place for photo ops (and a great place to stop for a drink at our favorite café, Flow!).

#10 Climb Up the Steps to Stairs Tower

Climb the Stairs Tower, Sibiu, Romania

The Stairs Tower – called Turnul Scarilor – dates to the 13th century. It is the oldest structure in Sibiu and the only remaining gate of the original fortified city.

The arched passage under the gate covers a set of stairs that connect the Upper and Lower Towns. From the steps, there are wonderful views down the length of Strada Turnului; a pretty, café-lined street.

Under the Stairs Tower is the Butoiul de Aur (The Golden Barrel) Restaurant, which is one of the oldest restaurants in Romania.

Pro Tip: Just outside the tower, find The Guilds Tree, which is representative of the many craft associations that Sibiu was known for in the 14th century.

#11 Cross the Bridge of Lies

Cross the Bridge of Lies Sibiu, Romania

The Podul Minciunilor – or Liars’ Bridge – appears to be a rather ordinary pedestrian bridge. However, the legend that surrounds the bridge makes it a must-see Sibiu sight. According to the tale, if someone tells a lie while standing on the bridge, it will collapse.

The iron-cast bridge – which connect Huet Square and Piata Mica – was built in 1860. The design, the first of its kind in Romania, did not require pylons. Therefore, it was called Liegenbrucke in German, as in, the bridge that lies down.

The word is quite similar to another German word, Lugenbrucke, which translates to the bridge of lies. The similarity of the two words sparked the legend that still swirls around town to this day!

#12 Go to Goldsmith Square

View of Goldsmith Square, Sibiu, Romania

One of the most charming Sibiu places to visit, Goldsmith’s Square – or Piata Aurarilor – is quaint and attractive. Adding to the atmosphere is that you arrive through a beautiful passageway staircase down from Piata Mica.

The simple triangular square hosts a café, a hotel and local residences. Both the café and the benches in the square are an ideal place to rest your feet and soak in the allure of Sibiu.

Pro Tip: Strada Targului, the lane that leads north from Goldsmith’s Square – is one of the most picturesque streets in Sibiu!  

#13 Stop by the St Ursula Roman Catholic Church

Interior, St Ursula Roman Catholic Church, Sibiu, Romania

The St. Ursula Church is not one of the Sibiu top attractions, but still well-worth a visit if you have the time. Part of the former Ursulines Convent, the Baroque church is well preserved and rich in history.

The church dates to the 1400s, when it was used as a monastery for Dominican monks. However, it was left abandoned and in 1718, the complex was renovated by Ursuline nuns. Today, Greek Catholic services are held at the church and the front door is often open for visitors to peer inside.

#14 Seek out Dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum

Dinosaurs at the Natural History Museum Sibiu

Housed in an outstanding 19th century building, the Museum of Natural History – or the Muzeul de Istorie Naturala – is highly ranked by families as one of the Top Things To Do Sibiu, Romania with kids.

Inside the museum, there are displays of taxidermized animals that are native to the Transylvania region. Outside in the garden, however, is where kids can spend time seeking out giant dinosaur statues.

#15 Walk Down the ‘Most Beautiful Street in Sibiu’

View of Most Beautiful Street in Sibiu, Romania

Fortress Street – or Strada Cetatii – is regularly touted as the most beautiful street and one of the best places to visit in Sibiu. The cobblestone, pedestrian lane is lined with pretty pink and yellow houses, three fortress towers and the grand Filarmonica de Stat Concert Hall.

#16 Tour the Sibiu Defensive Towers

Looking up at Sibiu Defensive Towers, Romania

The defensive towers and brick walls on Strada Cetatii are some of the best-preserved fortifications in Sibiu. For a small fee, visitors can climb up the towers and walk along the covered ramparts between the two lookouts.

Both towers – Turnul Dulgherilor and Turnul Olarilor – feature informational plaques that detail the history of Sibiu. It is one of the interesting places to visit in Sibiu to learn about the historic Guilds and their crafts.

#17 Get Outside the City Walls at Citadel Park

Walk of Fame at Citadel Park, Sibiu, Romania

Outside the old city walls, running parallel to Strada Cetatii, is a pleasant and peaceful park, Citadel Park – or Parcul Cetatii. The park was created in 1791 and was a defensive strategy, much like a moat, but without water.

The paved path through the park is also the site of the Sibiu Walk of Fame. The city’s most famous cultural figures are named on stars that line the pathway.  

#18 Relax by the Fountain in Astra Park Sibiu

Fountain at the Astra Park Sibiu, Romania

A favorite green space in the Sibiu City Center, Astra Park is marked by tall, leafy trees and a central fountain. An enjoyable place to rest, couples sit on benches, families push strollers and groups of men play chess.  

Along the shaded paths, you will find numerous statues dedicated to prominent Romanian historical figures.

#19 Gaze at the Grandeur of Holy Trinity Cathedral

Exterior of Holy Trinity Cathedral Orthodox Church, Sibiu

The Orthodox Holy Trinity Cathedral – or the Catedrala Mitropolitana – is a spectacular place of worship. In our opinion, it ranks as the most beautifully decorated religious building in Sibiu.

Dating to 1904, the Orthodox Cathedral features astounding Byzantine architecture. From the front façade, visitors can see the two soaring red and yellow striped towers and a semi-circular stained-glass window.

However, it is the inside of the Cathedral that is truly impressive. A giant chandelier hangs from the central dome, illuminating the spacious church – as well as the gorgeous iconostasis and exquisitely painted walls.

#20 Parade along Strada Nicolae Balcescu

Walking on the Pedestrian Promenade Sibiu, RO

The main pedestrian promenade in Sibiu – Strada Nicolae Balcescu – is a curving, cobblestone lane that connects Astra Park to the Great Square.

Perfect for a casual stroll, the street is lined with shops, cafes, bakeries and ice cream stands. On hot summer days, getting an ice cream cone to enjoy while parading up the street is a popular activity in Sibiu.

However, our favorite treat while roaming Strada Nicolae Balcescu is a traditional Romanian Covrigi, which are available from any of the several walk-up bakeries. Similar to a pretzel, the plain Covrigi are delicious, but consider splurging for a sweet Covrigi filled with chocolate or a savory one topped with cheese!

#21 Breathe the Fresh Air at Sub Arini Park

Relax at Sub Arini Park, Sibiu

Just a short walk from the Old Town is one of the best parks in Sibiu: Sub Arini Park. Paths – both paved and dirt – weave through the forested park, following the Trinkbach River, a tributary of the Cibin River. The park is an ideal place to stretch your legs and inhale a deep breath of fresh air.

Visitors can use the paths to walk, jog or bicycle through the park. Meanwhile, the open green lawns and several benches are an inviting place to simply unwind in nature.

#22 Spend a Day at the Astra Museum

View of the Astra Museum Sibiu, Romania

Without a doubt, one of the top attractions in the region is the Astra National Museum Complex. Situated in the Dumbrava Sibului Nature Reserve, just 3 miles from the Sibiu town center, the Astra Open Air Museum aims to preserve the traditional Romanian culture.

Within the Astra Village Museum there are more than 400 structures that convey the history of Romania. A few of the highlights of the Astra Sibiu Museum are the windmills, the 200-year-old wooden church and several water mills.

Although there is little information provided in English, we spent several hours exploring the dwellings in the village. Those who make a day out of visiting Muzeul Astra can dine at the on-site restaurant – Carciuma din Batrani – where they prepare traditional Romanian dishes.

#23 Marvel at the Cibin Market

Produce for sale at the Cibin Market, Sibiu

Not far from the Old Town, the Cibin Market in Sibiu is a marvelous meat, cheese and produce bazaar that caters to locals more than tourists, but we think it’s still a great place to experience!

In the center of the market, vendor’s stalls overflow with a colorful array of in-season fruits and vegetables. We saw tables piled high with peppers, zucchini and cabbage…as well as live rabbits and birds for sale.

Visitors staying in Sibiu for a few days can check out the offerings of local meat that is sold from the small butcher shops surrounding the market. For a taste of fresh cheese, check out the plentiful options in the dairy hall.

#24 Find a Bargain at the Piata Obor Flea Market

Sellers at Piata Obor Flea Market, Sibiu, RO

The Piata Obor Flea Market is one of the unique places to go in Sibiu. Vendors sell everything from formal evening gowns to used bike parts…and pretty much everything in between.

While much of what is sold at the market doesn’t necessarily appeal to travelers, the mishmash of items for sale is intriguing. We lingered at the vendors selling antiques and old household oddities. Black-and-white photos, music cassette tapes and chipped dishes were displayed, often just laid out on the ground on a blanket.

A nominal fee is charged to enter the market – and the hours are limited to mornings on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays.

#25 Visit the Museum of Steam Locomotives

Displays at the Museum of Steam Locomotives Sibiu

More of a train graveyard than an actual museum, the Locomotives Museum in Sibiu is a fascinating place to visit…especially for train enthusiasts.

The entire museum consists of about a dozen rusting trains sitting outside – and there are no signs or informational plaques. That said, visitors can get up close to the trains, some of which date to the early 1900s. The doors to the locomotives are open so that guests can peer inside to see what’s left of the controls.

There is no cost to visit the museum – it’s one of the fun free things to do in Sibiu, Romania. However, guests do need to provide ID to get past the security guard at the entry booth.  

#26 Sample the Local Sibiu Cuisine

Classic Dishes and the Best Food in Sibiu, Romania

Romanian cuisine is rich and savory – and Sibiu boasts an extraordinary number of excellent restaurants where visitors can get a taste. In fact, in 2019, Sibiu was named one of the European Regions of Gastronomy for its exceptional food heritage.

Some of the must-try foods in Sibiu are the hearty soups (called ciorba), stews (like goulash) and sarmale (cabbage rolls stuffed with meat and rice).

For a sweet treat at the end of the meal, get the papanasi – a delightful dish of fried dough doused in cheese, cream and a fruit jam.

Find specific restaurant reviews and food recommendations in our complete list of Best Restaurants in Sibiu .

#27 Drink Romanian Craft Beer

Bereta, Juice Bag, Romanian Craft Beer, Sibiu

Wherever we are in the world, we love drinking local brew. We wondered if we would have any luck finding craft beer in Sibiu and were pleasantly surprised to find a few regional brewers making some delicious suds.

There are a few craft breweries in Sibiu (Nembeer and Urban), but we favored the hop-heavy IPA’s by Bereta Craft Co (from Timisoara) and Hop Hooligans (from Bucharest ). There are a few excellent places in Sibiu that offer craft beer – and we include our top picks in our guide to Sibiu Bars . 

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More Things To Do Sibiu, Romania

CIty of Eyes, Sibiu Architecture, Romania

We have highlighted our top tips for what to do in Sibiu, Romania, but there are additional sights you may want to add to your itinerary.

Visit more Museums in Sibiu

We featured a few of the best Sibiu museums, however, there are more that fellow travelers may be interested in seeing during their trip.

Muzeul de Farmacie Sibiu

The Museum of Pharmacy in Sibiu hosts a small but interesting collection of exhibits. The three-room museum features a recreated pharmacy office and laboratory, as well as a display of homeopathic medicines.

The Altemberger House Museum of History

The Sibiu History Museum at The Altemberger House hosts a collection of historical artefacts – from weaponry to coins – in a building that served as the Sibiu City Hall for 400 years.

Museum of Hunting

The August von Spiess Museum of Hunting is a five-room museum detailing the history of hunting in Transylvania. The exhibits include hunting rifles and mounted trophies. Plus, there is an information booklet – in English – that provides background on the displays.

Museum of Contemporary Art

A one-room exhibition space, the Contemporary Art Museum in Sibiu displays artwork by contemporary Romanian artists.

Attend an Event or Festival in Sibiu

Throughout the year, Sibiu hosts an astounding number of exciting events and fun festivals. From sporting matches to performing arts to cultural heritage, there is almost always something going on in Sibiu.

Top sports events are the Red Bull Romaniacs event, the Sibiu Cycling Tour, and the AFC Hermannstadt Sibiu Football Club.

The Sibiu International Theatre Festival and the Astra Film Sibiu Festival are two of the biggest events in the city for the arts.

At Christmastime, the city transforms into a winter wonderland at the Sibiu Christmas Market.

Pro Tip: Looking for more winter destinations? Use our guide to the Best Places to Visit in Europe at Christmas . 

Catch a Performance at Radu Stanca National Theatre

Visitors interested in the performing arts can catch a show at the Radu Stanca Theatre, considered to be one of the best in Romania. Tickets are fairly affordable and there are subtitles for non-Romanian speaking audience members.

Experience Sibiu Nightlife

Although not particularly known for the nightlife scene, there are a few clubs in Sibiu. The Oldies Pub is a dance club in Sibiu that entertains guests with DJs and fun cocktails. For live music, the basement club Imperium is a good choice. 

Place a Bet at a Sibiu Casino

Las Vegas Games is the largest casino in Sibiu, but there are other betting centers where you can try your luck at the slot machines and other games.

Places To Visit Near Sibiu, Romania

View from inside Bran Castle Tower, Romania

Clearly there are many activities in the city, but there are several things to do around Sibiu, as well. Travelers making the city their base for at least a few days can discover the region on their own or join one of the popular tours from Sibiu.

Brasov and Dracula’s Bran Castle Day Tour

View of the Dracula Bran Castle, Romania

There are quite a few castles near Sibiu, but none are as famous as Bran Castle. Known as Dracula’s Castle, the Bran Castle – and the nearby town of Brasov – can be explored on a Sibiu full-day trip. Get the details!

Hiking Sibiu Mountains to Balea Lake via Transfagarasan

Snow on the Southern Carpathian Mountains, Sibiu, RO

Hiking in the Southern Carpathians Mountains is one of the best things to do in Sibiu County! While hiking around Sibiu can be difficult for those without a car, there are tours that allow adventurous travelers to trek through the alpine forests.

On this tour , participants get from Sibiu to the Fagaras Mountains via the scenic and winding Transfagarasan Highway and then hike to beautiful Balea Lake. 

Day Trip to Sighisoara and Romanian Villages

View of Sighisoara, Romania

The villages in Transylvania are fascinating – and they can be visited on day trips from Sibiu. Guests on this tour travel through the countryside to the villages of Biertan (to see the famous Fortified Chruch), Malancrav and Sighisoara (an idyllic 15th century village). Find out more!

Sibiu, Romania Map

Use this link to Google Maps for an interactive version of what to see in Sibiu, Romania. You can also pick up a paper map at the Sibiu Tourism Office on Piata Mare.

Map of Sibiu, Romania by JetSettingFools.com

How To Plan a Trip to Visit Sibiu, Romania

Planning a trip to Sibiu involves a lot more than just deciding which things to see and what to do. Those visiting from abroad can also use our European Vacation Planner , where we share pertinent advice for traveling to Europe from overseas.

For many, Sibiu is just one stop on a longer Romania trip. If that’s the case for you, have a look at our Romania Itinerary .

We also share tips specifically for visiting other Romanian destinations – like Things To Do in Brasov (including What and Where To Eat ) and What To See in Bucharest .

Sibiu Trip Organization

As you plan your trip to Romania, keeping track of the details is essential. Stay organized with our quick and easy Printable Travel Planner . 

Travel Planner Printables by JetSettingFools.com

Sibiu, Romania FAQs

Now that you know what to do in Sibiu, we want to cover a few basics which will help you plan your vacation to Romania.

Where is Sibiu, Romania?

Located in the heart of Romania, Sibiu City is nestled in the Transylvania region. Sibiu sits 135 miles northwest of Bucharest, the capital of Romania, and 70 miles west of Brasov, one of Romania’s most popular tourist destinations.

Situated at the foothills of the Southern Carpathian Mountains (also known as the Transylvanian Alps), the location of Sibiu is simply idyllic.

Why is Sibiu also called Hermannstadt?

Although Sibiu is in Romania today, it was settled by the Germans in the 1100s. Hermannstadt is the German name of that settlement and there are some residents of German descent that still live in Sibiu. Therefore, the city uses both names to this day. It is actually common to see it written out: Hermannstadt Sibiu, Romania.

What is the History of Sibiu?

The history of Hermannstadt Sibiu is long and complex. Founded by the Saxons in the mid-1100s, the area emerged as the center of trade for the region by the 14th century. Sibiu flourished and red brick defensive walls were built to protect the inhabitants – and the town became known as the Red City for the grand fortifications.

In the following centuries, Sibiu was ruled by the Kingdom of Hungary, the Ottomans and the Austro-Hungarians. In 1918, Sibiu – along with all of Transylvania – became part of Romania.

What is Sibiu Weather Like?

Sibiu, Romania enjoys four distinct seasons. Summers are sunny and hot, while winters are cold and snowy. The best weather in Sibiu is in the late spring and early autumn, when the temperatures are mild and the skies are typically clear.

Is Sibiu Worth Visiting?

Yes! Transylvania is exceptionally beautiful and there are a multitude of attractions in Sibiu. Some of the Sibiu must-see sights are the unique architecture, the historic churches and the phenomenal museums. Enjoying the local cuisine is another one of the top-ranking Sibiu things to do.

Is Sibiu an Affordable Destination? 

Yes, there are several things to do in Sibiu for free – and we highlighted a few on our list. Furthermore, while most of the museums and a few of the top places to see in Sibiu charge entry fees, ticket prices are generally affordable.

Quick Sibiu Facts

What is the Language Spoken? Romanian, but those in the service and tourism industry speak some English (and possibly German).

What is the Sibiu Population? The current population of Sibiu is around 170,000 residents.

How Do You Pronounce Sibiu? The city of Sibiu is pronounced See-Bee-oo.

What is the Currency? The Romanian Leu (or Lei, plural) is the official currency and is also designated by the code RON.

How Do you Say Hello / Thank You? Buna Ziua (boo-na zee-wah) / Multumesc (mool-too-mesk)

Sibiu Travel Tips

Classic Doors, Sibiu, Romania

Our Sibiu travel planning tips cover the need-to-know info about how to get there, where to stay and what to pack . 

How To Get To Sibiu, Romania

Sibiu can be reached by plane, train, bus or car. For our trip to Sibiu, we arrived by plane from Dublin and departed by bus to Brasov.

Flights to Sibiu, Romania

The Sibiu Airport is conveniently located just 3 miles from the city center, making it very easy for visitors who arrive by plane. The difficult part may be actually finding a flight to Sibiu.

What Airlines Fly to Sibiu, Romania?

The Sibiu International Airport (SBZ) is primarily serviced by low-cost carrier Wizz Air from a few European destinations (primarily in Germany ). Ryanair has recently ended all flights at Sibiu. However, major airlines – like Lufthansa and Austrian – fly to Sibiu year round from their hubs in Munich and Vienna .

How Do I Find Cheap Flights to Sibiu, Romania?

To find cheap airfare to Sibiu, start your search on Skyscanner . Because of the very limited number of flights to Sibiu, you may find better schedules and lower fares to Henri Coanda International Airport (OTP) in Bucharest .

Travel by Bus: Sibiu, Romania

International buses to Sibiu are a long and slow way to travel, but can be cost efficient. For example, the bus from Budapest to Sibiu takes more than 10 hours…but costs a fraction of the price of a plane ticket.

Train Travel to Sibiu

Possibly worse than buses, trains to Sibiu provide a long and arduous journey. While traveling to Sibiu via train from some international destinations may make sense economically, the ride is time-consuming and often requires multiple changes.

How To Get from Sibiu to other places in Romania

For travel within Romania, visitors can use buses, trains, private transport or a rental car . We are sharing travel details for a few of the popular Sibiu connections. 

Sibiu to Bucharest by Public Transit

The distance from Bucharest to Sibiu is about 175 miles. Both buses and trains can be used to make the journey from Sibiu to Bucharest, and vice versa.

Bucharest to Sibiu Train

The Bucharest – Sibiu Train journey takes about 7 hours. The schedule is somewhat limited and will likely require a switch in Brasov.

Bus: Bucharest – Sibiu

In our opinion, it’s better to take the bus from Sibiu to Bucharest. The trip will take about 5 hours and the buses are more frequent than the trains and likely won’t require a connection. We used the Autogari website for information about the bus from Bucharest to Sibiu (or anywhere else in Romania).

Brasov to Sibiu

The distance between Brasov and Sibiu is about 90 miles. There is a Sibiu – Brasov train, but after reviewing schedules, travel times and fares, we found the bus to be a better option. The bus from Brasov to Sibiu takes about 3 hours and costs around $10. 

Sibiu to Cluj-Napoca

The distance between Cluj-Napoca and Sibiu is about 110 miles. There are very few direct trains, likely making it a better option to take the bus. There are a few different companies that run bus routes from Cluj-Napoca to Sibiu and the journey will be about 4 hours. It’s best to check at the station or online for the most accurate information.

How To Get Around Sibiu, Romania

Getting around Sibiu City Centre is best done on your own two feet. Although there is an Upper and Lower Town, it is still relatively flat and easy to walk around.

Local buses can be used to get to some sights that are outside the city center – like the Open-Air Astra Museum. Tickets are affordable and can be purchased from kiosks at some bus stops or directly from machines on the bus with a contactless credit card.

A Sibiu car rental can be helpful for travelers who want to explore more of the region independently. Use our tips for finding the Best Car Rental Rates for your trip to Sibiu.

Where To Stay in Sibiu

The best place to stay in Sibiu is in the heart of the city. There is a wide range of accommodations – from hotels to hostels to vacation apartments.

Sibiu Hotels

We are listing a few of the best hotels in Sibiu, Romania based on guest reviews. Keep in mind that if you are looking for cheap hotels in Sibiu, it is best to book in advance – especially in the busy summer travel season. Read our Top Tips for Finding Cheap Hotels for our honest advice.

Hotel Am Ring

A very popular hotel in Sibiu located on the Large Square, Hotel Am Ring is a historic hotel featuring 19th century furnishings and comfortable beds. Check rates for your stay!  

ART Hotel Sibiu

A 4-star, boutique hotel in Sibiu, ART Hotel offers modern rooms just steps from the historic Old Town. Check rates!

The Council

An exceptional guesthouse in a historic building, The Council is one of the more unique hotels in Sibiu Hermannstadt. Check availability!

Hilton Sibiu

Although not in the historic center, the Hilton Hotel is located close to the Open-Air Astra National Museum – plus the property has an indoor swimming pool and on-site spa. Check room rates!

B13 Hostel Sibiu, Romania

Budget travelers looking for hostels in Sibiu need to look no further than the B13 Hostel. Centrally located, the hostel offers dorm bunks and private rooms. Plus they have a common room, communal kitchen and free Wi-Fi. Book it here!

Airbnb Sibiu

Travelers basing themselves in Sibiu for an extended time may consider renting an apartment for their stay. There are numerous available on Booking.com and Airbnb. Before booking, however, be sure to read our Advice for Airbnb Guests . 

What To Pack for your Sibiu, Romania Trip

Our final travel tips focus on what to pack in your suitcase or backpack . We are sharing a few specifics for Romania, but you can find all of our packing hacks on our Travel Packing Page . Grab a Free Packing Checklist!  

Comfortable Travel Shoes

For your Sibiu trip, make sure you pack a durable pair of Travel Shoes . They should be lightweight, versatile and comfortable so that you can easily trek around on the cobblestone streets. I wore my favorite sneakers , but Kris preferred wearing Merrell Trail Shoes . 

Weather Appropriate Clothing

Summers in Sibiu can be very warm and the sun intense, so bring some sunscreen or a wide-brimmed travel hat . Spring and autumn bring rain, so it’s best to pack a travel umbrella and a lightweight raincoat. For winter in Romania, you will need a heavy coat, hat and gloves.

Quality Travel Camera

Sibiu is stunningly gorgeous! If you don’t already own an excellent travel camera , we recommend buying one for your trip.

We use a DSLR Canon Rebel . It’s one of the best cameras for budget travelers because it’s relatively affordable, takes high quality photos and comes with tons of accessories!

A good day bag should be on your packing list for Sibiu, too. With long days of sightseeing adventures, you need something that can hold all of your everyday travel essentials – such as your phone, wallet, camera and jacket.

We use these small backpacks , but if that’s not your style, read reviews for more of the Best Day Bag for Travelers .

European Travel Insurance

Trip insurance may cover inconveniences – like lost luggage and flight cancelations – or entire trip cancelations plus getting ill abroad . Check rates and coverage at a reliable travel insurance provider .

We Want to Know: What tops your list of Things To Do in Sibiu, Romania? Tell us in the comments! 

Start planning your trip to Romania ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

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Visit Sibiu – attractions & things to do in Sibiu, Romania

  • November 8, 2023

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Once you are in Romania, you should visit Sibiu , to make sure you have discovered the best of this country. You can spend many days here, but if you don’t have too much time, a day is enough to enjoy the best attractions in Sibiu & top things to do .

Lately, the place has developed substantially and has become an important centre for tourism in Transylvania. I consider it to be the most beautiful city in Romania . Discover a top 10 list of cities in Romania for tourists.

And now, let’s see what are the most important things to do in Sibiu. After you read this list and visit the city I hope you will have the same opinion and even if you don’t, I can guarantee that you won’t feel sorry for stopping by.

Sibiu is known not only for the places you can visit here but also for its amazing events. These events gather many tourists, so once you are here don’t forget to check what is going on in the city.

But regardless of these events, here are the main things to do and attractions in Sibiu that you can’t miss:

Walk on Nicolae Balcescu Pedestrian Street

Sibiu attractions pedestrian street

Nicolae Balcescu connects the main Boulevard that runs through Sibiu (the road which comes from Bucharest and continues to Alba Iulia) with the old city. On each side of the pedestrian street, in front of the houses from the olden days, restaurants’ terraces invite guests to delicious lunches or at least for a drink to cool down.

Sprinkled between the terraces, a few well-known shops (Zara, H&M) are designed in such a way as to not ruin the urban landscape and its medieval look.

Explore Piata Mare (Large Square)

Large square Sibiu

The pedestrian street ends in the Large Square (Piata Mare), one of the best-known attractions in Sibiu and the place where all the large events in town take place (The Sibiu Theater Festival, the Christmas Market).

If you are wondering what is there to do in Sibiu in winter, you may want to find out that the Christmas market In Sibiu is considered to be one of the best in Romania. Sibiu in winter, as the whole of Romania, can be covered in snow. So, if you want to enjoy a beautiful Christmas, a trip to Sibiu can be a great idea!

In the centre of the cobblestone square lies the grilled fountain, a copy of the one from the 15 th century which was demolished in the communist period.

If you go right up to the fountain and take a look around the entire square, you will see, in the following order, the Brukenthal Palace (the oldest museum in Romania that host today’s impressive art collections), the City Hall (the yellow building on the corner), the Roman Catholic Church, the Council Tower (the white tower with clock), and the historic houses (now they house shops, banks, pharmacies and some of them have rooms to rent).

If you feel like you are being looked at too, know that the sensation comes from the windows built into these houses’ roofs, narrow windows known as ‘Sibiu’s eyes’.

Explore Sibiu & enjoy art in Brukenthal Museum

Brukenthal museum Sibiu

Romania’s first art museum, the Brukenthal Museum houses a collection of art pieces in the palace with the same name. The palace was built by the baron Samuel von Brukenthal in the 18 th century in baroque style.

He signed his testament, declaring that the building would become a public museum after his death since he was an art lover. Sculptures, paintings, and rooms with old furniture can be admired there. Those who are unsure about whether or not to go inside can take a virtual tour of the Brukenthal Museum on the official website.

Under the patronage of the Brukenthal Museum, you not only find the art collection of the Brukenthal Palace, but also other museums in Sibiu: the Natural History Museum, the Pharmacy Museum, etc. More information about them can also be found on the official website .

Go up in the Council Tower

Sibiu things to see Council tower

One of the best places to visit in Sibiu is the Council Tower for the view of the city. The climb up into the tower starts through a narrow door opening onto the Small Square (Piata Mica) and once you reach the top floor you have a 360-degree view over the entire city: old houses with red-tiled roofs at the foot of the tower, tall apartment buildings towards the city’s outskirts, and further still, the green of the fields and the white of the Carpathian Mountain crests.

Thankfully, the Council Tower is not the only one in the city to offer such views.

Read also: A travel guide to Transylvania for first time visitors

Eat local in the Small Square (Piata Mica) of Sibiu and step on the Bridge of Lies

Small square Sibiu travel guide

Once you come down from the tower, and even if you have no idea what it is, you will automatically be drawn to the bridge with wrought iron rails and decorated with blooming geraniums.

It’s the Bridge of Lies, a symbol of the city of Sibiu. It’s the oldest wrought iron bridge in Romania and according to one of the legends, its name comes from the lovers that used to come here and make each other promises, many of which were lies.

However, on your way to the bridge, you will walk through the Small Square(Piata Mica) surrounded by colourful houses, historic buildings (the Luxembourg House), and restaurants with local and international cuisine.

Here you will find some of the best restaurants in Sibiu. If it’s lunchtime, you can stop to enjoy the traditional Romanian dishes and desserts. You don’t know what to order? Check the list of traditional desserts . From here, if you go to the left, you can arrive at the Evangelic Church and further still, in Huet Square.

Book one of the following tours to enjoy Sibiu:

sibiu travel highlights

3 days in Transylvania medieval tour

sibiu travel highlights

5 days in Romania itinerary

sibiu travel highlights

7 days in Transylvania road trip

sibiu travel highlights

One week itinerary in Romania

Admire the evangelic church of sibiu.

Sibiu landmarks Evanghelic church

One of the things you must see in Sibiu is the Evangelic Church, a gothic-style construction completed in the 16 th century. The Sibiu Cathedral can be visited on the inside, but the Evangelic Church’s tower is worth a climb for those who want a real adventure.

I remember climbing the tower the first time and the experience was so intense that I immediately got sore muscles from how tense I was. You can see the floor below through the stairs, so it can be quite challenging to get to the top.

Once above, the ringing of the church bells is deafening, but the view of the city at your feet is worth the effort.

Sibiu sightseeing: a famous house in Huet Square

Travel to Sibiu - craftmen house

Huet Square is the oldest square in Sibiu and the around it was built the first fortification system of the city. The Evangelic Cathedral stands right in the centre of this square.

On the sides of the square you can see the Brukenthal college, a stylish café overlooking the red roofs of the houses, Wien café and old, colourful houses remaining from medieval times. Next to the café is another famous house of Sibiu: the Craftmen’s House (Casa Calfelor).

The craftsmen are independent disciples who left their homes to become specialized in their trade. Their journey lasts 3 years and one day and their tradition are famous since medieval times, being kept in countries like Germany and Austria.

They have shelters in four cities in Europe (Sibiu, Rügen, Neustadt, and Leipzig). Usually, they come to Sibiu during summer and you can easily recognize them by their typical clothing: large trousers, vest and coat.

Any Sibiu sightseeing tour includes a stop in front of this house.

Get lost on the Stairs Passage – the most instagrammable place in Sibiu

Sibiu instagrammable places Stairs passage

Passing the Craftmen’s House you can descend through the Stairs Tower down to Stairs Street. You reach another Sibiu attraction from the bottom of the stairs towards the left: the Stair Passage.

This is one of the most beautiful places in the town and it is especially visited by those looking for instagrammable places in Sibiu. It has a medieval charm and you can take excellent photos here.

Read also Most beautiful cities in Transylvania

Follow the Fortification System

Things to do Sibiu fortification system

Remnants of the fortification system of Sibiu can be found around the old town: towers and brick walls from medieval times that once defended the city. In Fortress Park, on the most beautiful street in Sibiu, Cetatii street, you can see a part of the defence system of the old Sibiu: the Fat Tower, the Potters’ Tower, the Harquebusier Tower and a standing wall that connects them.

Walking along the wall you can feel a part of the history of this medieval city.

On the other side of the old town, you will find other fortification remains: the Stairs Passage and other towers.

Go back in time to the Astra Museum of Sibiu

Only a few kilometres away from the city centre, on the road that takes you up to Paltinis, you can visit the largest open-air museum in Europe: the ASTRA National Museum Complex .

It houses an impressive collection of traditional houses, wooden objects, and even windmills. It is like a huge park where you can spend half a day walking through without getting bored.

The visit can be made (depending on Sibiu weather) with a horse and carriage or in the winter with a horse-drawn sleigh. The museum’s opening hours and entrance fees can be found on the museum’s official website.

There are other things to do in Sibiu and places to visit (museums, old houses and beautiful parks), but the ones on this list are the most popular ones.

Is Sibiu worth visiting?

Sibiu is definitely worth a visit. Not only is it one of the most beautiful cities in Romania, if not the most beautiful, but there are also other reasons to visit Sibiu.

One of them is the fact that the city will conquer you with its medieval charm, its old and colourful houses and its old legends.

Another reason is that Sibiu can be used as a base when you want to explore Transylvania without changing the hotel every night. There are several attractions in Transylvania that can be explored on day trips from Sibiu.

Is Sibiu safe for tourists?

Sibiu is one of the safest places for tourists in Romania. The locals are friendly and ready to help. However, it is a good idea not to expose your valuable things. But the old town is usually full of people so you can walk alone even in the evening.

How to get to Sibiu, Romania?

You probably think that landing at Sibiu airport is the best option to arrive here. And it is, but unfortunately, flights to Sibiu are not so often. Another option is to land in Bucharest and come from Bucharest to Sibiu by train, by car or by bus.

By train it can take a lot of time, so probably it is better to come by car. There is also a daily flight from Bucharest to Sibiu if you prefer flying.  From Sibiu airport to the city centre it is better to go by bus or you can order a taxi.

The most common option we use is to include Sibiu on a multi-day private tour in Romania. Here, we plan several days to explore the city, but also the other places to visit near Sibiu.

Day trips from Sibiu

The city is also a good base to explore the best tourist attractions in Transylvania. That is why there is a large variety of day trips from Sibiu. First, you can go to the main cities in Transylvania (Brasov, Alba Iulia, Cluj Napoca , Sighisoara or Targu Mures). There are also some beautiful castles near Sibiu that you can visit.

If you don’t want to spend too much time in the car, you can just discover the traditional villages and important landmarks around Sibiu (Cisnadie, Sibiel, etc).  There, you will understand why everybody is mesmerized by Transylvania.

How many days do you need in Sibiu?

If you just want to walk around the city and discover the most important attractions in Sibiu, one day you can visit the old centre and enjoy the best things to do in the city.

If you want to use it as a base to explore Transylvania and stay 5 days in Sibiu you will definitely have something to do. You can dedicate a day to exploring the main landmarks in Sibiu. The next day you can go to the Astra National Museum Complex and you can continue higher, towards the mountains, to Paltinis.

On the third day, you can make a day trip to Sighisoara. On the fourth day, you can visit Corvin Castle and other attractions along the way. And on the last day, you can go to the Fairy Castle and forward on Transfagarasan.

If you stay longer, you can discover other things to do in Sibiu County and its surroundings.

I haven’t met anyone who doesn’t like Sibiu. It is enough to come here once and you will want to return. Sibiu touches your heart and does not let go. You can’t get enough of it no matter how many times you come to visit!

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Home » Travel Guides » Romania » 15 Best Things to Do in Sibiu (Romania)

15 Best Things to Do in Sibiu (Romania)

A city that demands to be experienced on foot, Sibiu in southern Transylvania is home to Romania’s largest German minority. On a slope with intricate rings of fortifications, the city made a clear division between the Lower Town for artisans and merchants, and the Upper Town for the more affluent citizens and religious elite.

Between the two is a labyrinth of intertwining alleys, stairways and passages. Dipping under vaults and cutting through brick ravines, these paths turn the simple act of getting around into a journey of discovery.

There’s also never been a better time to visit than right now, as showpieces like the Grand and Small Square have been spruced up since Romania joined the EU.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Sibiu :

1. ASTRA Museum of Traditional Folk Civilisation

ASTRA Museum, Sibiu

In the Dumbrava Forest four kilometres south of Sibiu is a terrific outdoor museum in the Swedish “Skansen” tradition.

The proportions are awesome, at 96 hectares and with a ten-kilometre trail taking you past reconstructed dwellings, windmills, animal paddocks, workshops, churches, water mills and farms from all parts of Romania.

There are more than 300 buildings, showing off the diversity of styles and ingenuity and resourcefulness of rural folk in Romania.

Many of the houses and workshops are much more than just static exhibits, with staff bringing to life centuries-old traditions and skills from weaving to cooking.

The museum also has a lake where you can hire a rowboat in summer, and there’s a constant cycle of folk celebrations with bright traditional costumes and dance.

2. Piața Mare (Grand Square)

Grand Square

This huge rectangular square has been the centre of attention in Sibiu since it was drawn up in 1366. The Grand Square measures 142 metres long by 93 metres wide, making it one of the largest in Transylvania, and a fitting place for markets, fairs and even executions.

In the northwest corner is the Brukenthal Palace, one of Romania’s best examples of Baroque architecture.

Also Baroque and from the 18th century is the large but unusually understated Jesuit Church, while standing in contrast next door is the theatrical mayor’s office, built at the start of the 20th century.

Give yourself a moment to admire two 15th-century houses, Casa Haller at no. 10 and Casa Lutsch (Centre for Romania’s German Minority) at no. 13. In December the square twinkles with thousands of fairy lights during Sibiu’s Christmas market.

3. Piața Mică (Small Square)

Small Square, Sibiu

Head through the portal below the Council Tower and you’ll come to the Small Square, which is actually pretty large and has a very irregular shape.

In the middle there’s a street that spirals down to the Lower Town, and crossing the big brick embankments is the beautiful Bridge of Lies, which we’ll talk about later.

The square is fringed by merchants’ houses from the 14th to the 16th centuries, with cool, shaded arcades on their ground floors and little dormers on their roofs, often described as the “eyes of Sibiu”. Make a bee-line for no.

26, Sibiu’s first pharmacy, in a building from 1568. There’s a small museum inside, run by the Brukenthal National Museum, and going into detail on Samuel Hahnemann who invented the alternative medicine of homeopathy in the basement.

4. Sibiu Lutheran Cathedral

Sibiu Lutheran Cathedral

Begun in 1371 and completed in 1520, Sibiu’s Lutheran Cathedral is one of the greatest and largest Gothic churches in Transylvania.

First of all, step around to the east side, where, at the southern facade of the choir, there’s a relief of Jesus at the Mount of Olives, carved in the last quarter of the 15th century.

Also essential is the narthex, which was turned into a separate chapel in the mid-19th century and is clad with ledger stones and monuments to Sibiu’s preeminent personalities.

The oldest is for the mayor of Sibiu Georg Hecht from the 1498, and there’s one for Samuel von Brukenthal, the Habsburg governor who made a lasting impression on the city at the turn of the 19th century.

5. Brukenthal National Museum

Brukenthal National Museum, Sibiu

The palatial home of the Habsburg governor of Transylvania, Samuel von Brukenthal, is the headquarters for a museum with a few locations around Sibiu.

This institution was first founded using Brukenthal’s personal collections more than 200 years ago.

His residence holds the Brukenthal Art Galleries, replete with German, Flemish, Dutch, Italian, French and Spanish painting from the Renaissance, Baroque and Rococo periods.

To give you an idea of the standard, two of Romania’s four paintings by Peter Paul Rubens are hanging here.

Transylvanian art also abounds at the museum, with pieces by the avant-garde surrealist János Mattis-Teutsch and the landscape artist Johann Böbel.

6. Turnul Sfatului (Council Tower)

Turnul Sfatului, Sibiu

Standing tall between Sibiu’s Grand and Lesser Squares is the seven-storey Council Tower, a lasting symbol for Sibiu.

Tapering a little on each level, this historic defence was constructed at the end of the 13th century and was a gateway on Sibiu’s the second circle of fortifications.

A few superficial changes have been made down the centuries, resulting in the current Baroque design.

If you’re wondering about the tower’s name, it comes from the building next door, which used to hold the Town Hall (Council). On the south side see if you can make out the reliefs of two lions, carved in the late 16th century.

And from 10:00-20:00 you can climb the 141 stairs to see the clock mechanism on the 5th floor and then survey Sibiu’s rooftops from the top.

7. Lower Town

Street in Lower Town, Sibiu

Pressed between the Cibin River and the Upper Town, the Lower Town was where merchants and craftsmen lived, as opposed to the Upper Town, which was for rich families and clergy.

The houses, mostly two storeys tall, are more rustic in the Lower Town, and set on unusually broad cobblestone streets delivering you to small squares.

Every few steps there’s a large semi-circular wooden gate that gives way to an interior courtyard.

At the foot of the Stairs Passage is the Butoiul de Aur (Golden Barrel), which, dating to 1452, is the oldest restaurant in Romania.

Other sights to keep on your radar are the 13th-century hospice and its adjoining church, which is the oldest in the city.

8. Huet Square

Huet Square

The square around the Lutheran Cathedral also warrants a mention for its cluster of buildings dating from the 1400s to the 1700s.

Huet Square is where Sibiu’s earliest fortifications used to be in the 1100s, and in the northern part you can find the Stairs Tower, guarding the stairway down to the Lower Town.

The first tower went up in the 13th century to be replaced by this current structure from 1542. Also particularly old is the red-painted Parochial House at nos. 1 and 2, built in stages from the 13th century and with a marvellous Gothic stone portal.

Finally at no. 5 is the Baroque Samuel von Brukenthal Gymnasium, completed in 1776, the city’s only totally German school, on the site of an earlier school founded in the 1300s.

9. Strada Nicolae Balcescu

Strada Nicolae Balcescu, Sibiu

Between Union Square and the Grand Square is a wide and convivial pedestrian artery that used to link the marketplace with the defunct Cisnădie Gate at the southern entrance to the city.

There was a fire here in the 17th century so although no architecture survives from the earliest days, most of the houses are Baroque and Neoclassical from the 1700s and 1800s, and have gates that open onto inner courtyards.

Fifteen of the houses from nos. 2 to 42 are on the List of Historical Monuments in Sibiu County, bringing plenty of panache.

House no. 12 was the home of Baron Michael Brukenthal (nephew of Samuel), who ordered the current Baroque facade in the late-1780s.

10. Stairs Passage

Stairs Passage, Sibiu

The pick of all the routes linking the Upper and Lower Towns is the Stairs Passage, which has a moderate, winding slope as it was designed for oxcarts in the 13th century.

The most photogenic section beckons you below the Lutheran Cathedral past high brick retaining walls, which have flying buttresses arching over the passageway for reinforcement.

Amateur photographers should come at dusk in summer when the light is magical.

11. Holy Trinity Cathedral

Holy Trinity Cathedral, Sibiu

Although Sibiu’s Orthodox cathedral was built in just two years from 1902 to 1904, fundraising had begun 45 years before, when the Transylvanian Bishop Andrei Șaguna first wrote to Austrian Emperor Franz Joseph I. It’s a stirring sight, with neo-Byzantine alternating bands of yellow and red brick and a humungous copper-covered dome.

On the inside of the dome is the classic Orthodox image of Christ Pantocrator flanked by angels, high above the gilt-wood iconostasis.

Both were painted by the eminent Transylvanian Symbolist Octavian Smigelschi, who travelled to the Kingdom of Romania to the south to study religious art for this project.

12. Muzeul de Istorie (Museum of History)

Museum of History, Sibiu

An arm of the Brukenthal Museum, this attraction is set in the Casa Altemberger, named after Thomas Altemberger who was mayor of Sibiu in the late 15th century.

The house, with mullioned windows and turrets, is one of the outstanding pieces of secular Gothic architecture in Eastern Europe.

From 1545 to 1948 it housed the Town Hall, while its tower contained the city archive throughout that period.

Since the late-60s Casa Altemberger has been a history museum for southern Transylvania.

In the galleries there’s glassware crafted nearby in Porumbacu de Sus, a Roman lapidarium from the 1st to the 3rd century, religious art, coins, weapons and armour from the 1500s and 1600s.

13. Bridge of Lies

Bridge of Lies, Sibiu

Linking two halves of the Small Square is Romania’s oldest iron bridge.

The Bridge of Lies was cast in 1859 and soon became another emblem for Sibiu.

It got its memorable name by a quirk of language because in German the words for “to lie” and “to lie (tell untruths)” are similar.

The bridge was called the “Lying Bridge” as it has no standing supports and instead rests on two embankments.

But soon, thanks to oral tradition the structure got its own legends.

The most famous goes that the bridge will collapse of someone sits on it and tells a lie.

What is true is that it’s an elegant piece of design, with Neo-Gothic motifs in its ironwork and four wrought iron gas lights on pedestals at each corner.

14. Museum of Steam Locomotives

Museum of Steam Locomotives, Sibiu

For a quick trip back to the steam age there’s a museum at a roundhouse and turntable not far from the main train station east of the Old Town.

There are 33 locomotives to check out, along with three snowploughs and two steam cranes.

Out of the 23 standard gauge and ten narrow gauge trains, seven are in working order, and all ran on Romania’s railways between 1885 and 1959. Most of the engines are by German manufacturers like Henschel & Son, Schwartzkopff and Borsig, but there’s also a model by the Baldwin Locomotive Works from the USA.

15. Păltiniș

Păltiniș, Romania

Technically part of Sibiu, this small mountain resort is an easy and scenic drive into the Cindrel Mountains.

Deep in coniferous woodland Păltiniș is the oldest ski resort in Romania, having been founded in 1894, with three of its original palatial villas surviving to this day.

Since Romania joined the EU there’s been an expansion to the residential area, and the number of restaurants and shops is increasing by the season.

Thanks to a maximum elevation of 1,681 metres there’s snow on the upper slopes for six months of the year.

So if you are in the mood for some powder in winter there’s a couple of downhill pistes and five cross-country trails.

This same terrain is equally beautiful in summer, when you can use the resort as a springboard for rugged hikes, the toughest taking you up to the Cindrel Peak at 2,444 metres.

15 Best Things to Do in Sibiu (Romania):

  • ASTRA Museum of Traditional Folk Civilisation
  • Piața Mare (Grand Square)
  • Piața Mică (Small Square)
  • Sibiu Lutheran Cathedral
  • Brukenthal National Museum
  • Turnul Sfatului (Council Tower)
  • Huet Square
  • Strada Nicolae Balcescu
  • Stairs Passage
  • Holy Trinity Cathedral
  • Muzeul de Istorie (Museum of History)
  • Bridge of Lies
  • Museum of Steam Locomotives

The Travel Hack

Weekend Itinerary to Sibiu, Romania: The Best of Sibiu

By: Author Monica

Categories Blog , Romania

Weekend Itinerary to Sibiu, Romania: The Best of Sibiu

Planning to spend a weekend in Sibiu? Great! Sean Lau from Living Out Lau is here today to share the perfect Sibiu weekend itinerary.

As the most important and prosperous Saxons walled citadels, Sibiu is dotted with stunning architecture, beautiful historical streets, and excellent ethnic food. It’s cultural importance is undeniable, and in fact, it was named the European Capital of Culture in 2007. 

Exploring Sibiu without any guidance is tough. That is why we have written this weekend itinerary to Sibiu, so you can explore the best things to do in Sibiu using the limited time available to you. 

Is a Weekend Enough Time To See Sibiu?

If you are planning a trip to Sibiu for a weekend, you must wonder if that is enough time to see all of its sights. After all, Sibiu was named the European Capital of Culture in 2007. It is a city with over 500 years of history, many of which can still be seen in the city today.

However, the truth is… yes, 2 days in Sibiu is enough time to see all of the best attractions in Sibiu. That is not because Sibiu isn’t full of incredible sights, but because the majority of them are located inside the historic centre. Visitors don’t have to take long bus rides to get from one attraction to another, so they can spend their time efficiently. 

Day 1 of Sibiu Itinerary: Exploring Sibiu’s Historic Center

Rise and shine early in Sibiu because you have a long day ahead of you. Start your day off with a delicious breakfast at Hug The Mug, one of the best cafes in Sibiu. The cafe prides itself in providing some of the best coffee in town in a cozy and comfortable environment. 

During the warmer months, guests can enjoy their refreshments in the outdoor seating area, where they can people-watch and enjoy the fresh air. Their house latte is their signature drink and the most popular with patrons but you can’t go wrong with any of their drinks. 

After you have had your breakfast, it is time to explore some of the best attractions in Sibiu, starting with the Piata Mare, also known as the Large Square in English. In every medieval town, there was a large outdoor square where the most important tasks were conducted. Piata Mare is that large square in Sibiu. 

Once upon a time, this square helds executions, meetings, and more. Nowadays, it houses some of the most important landmarks in Sibiu, such as the Brukenthal National Museum (the first museum of Transylvania) and the Council Tower. We won’t have time to explore the museum but going up to the Council Tower is a must. 

The 13th century tower was one of the defense fortifications of Sibiu. Now it is mostly known for its stunning panoramic view at about 45 meters above the ground. Occasionally, there are interesting exhibits inside the tower that visitors can see.

sibiu travel highlights

After visiting the Council Tower, walk over to the adjacent Piata Mica, or Small Square in English. The Piata Mica was historically known as the place for merchants and workshops. Trade was historically conducted here. Nowadays, the Small Square boasts a wide open view of some of the most iconic houses of Sibiu, the houses with the eyes. Though some people believe that these eyes were used for spying, they are actually used for ventilation of the attic.

sibiu travel highlights

Walk around Piata Mica and take in all the views, then head over to the Bridge of Lies, one of the most iconic symbols of Sibiu. The Bridge of Lies is the first cast-iron bridge built in Romania and the second one in Europe. Legends say if someone is telling a lie on the bridge, the bridge would creak.

Spend the rest of your morning exploring the Lower Town of Sibiu. Though you won’t find any ionic landmarks of Sibiu in the Lower Town, it is an area known for its well-preserved medieval houses and quaint cobblestone streets. One thing the Lower Town of Sibiu is famous for is Cibin Market, the biggest outdoor market in Sibiu.

sibiu travel highlights

If you aren’t hungry yet, make sure you visit the Stairs Passage and the Goldsmith’s Square Passage. Those are two of the most beautiful passageways in Sibiu.

sibiu travel highlights

After an exhausting morning of exploring Sibiu, it is time to replenish yourself with an amazing lunch. There are plenty of authentic Romanian restaurants in Sibiu, but none offer as spectacular of a view as the ones in Piata Mica (or the Small Square). If it is a nice day, you will find plenty of outdoor seating to enjoy the beautiful views and the signature houses in Sibiu (the ones with “eyes” on the side of the building. If it isn’t too busy, we recommend Crama Sibiana restaurant. 

sibiu travel highlights

After a fulfilling lunch, it is time to learn more about Sibiu’s history through its medieval fortifications. Sibiu was one of the most prosperous Saxon citadels in Transylvania, thanks to the variety of skilled craftsmen that settled here. These craftsmans eventually set up their own guild such as the Potter’s Guild, Tanner’s Guild, and etc. 

However, besides producing goods, they were also responsible for the defense of the city. In fact, if you walk around the historic center of Sibiu, you will stumble upon many of those remaining fortifications built by the guilds. Some of the remaining ones include the Potter’s Tower and the Harquebusiers Tower.

Spend the rest of your afternoon at Muzeul ASTRA, a complex with 4 museums covering the rich heritage of Romania. Spanning a total area of 0.96 square kilometers, the ASTRA Museum complex is one of the biggest outdoor museums in the world and the biggest in Romania. 

sibiu travel highlights

This museum is famous for its outdoor cultural re-creations, and visitors can visit the traditional folkloric houses and check out the old-school windmills. Visiting the ASTRA Museum is like stepping back in time. The museum is huge and guests can easily spend countless hours here, but for us, we will stay until it closes, which is around 6 pm depending on the season.

If there is one thing that Sibiu lacks, it is an energetic nightlife. There really aren’t many bars or clubs in Sibiu, so we encourage visitors to just walk around Sibiu and explore its quiet streets. The quietness allows visitors to appreciate some of these charming streets more. Make sure to get plenty of sleep though, because tomorrow will be another action-packed day!

Day 2 of Sibiu Itinerary: Transfagarasan Highway Day Trip

sibiu travel highlights

Now that you have seen most of Sibiu, the second day of your Sibiu weekend trip will be spent exploring the Transfagarasan Highway. Named as the best driving road in the world by the British TV show Top Gear, Transfagarasan is an absolute sight to behold.

The winding road traverses the famed Carpathian Mountains, and visitors are blessed with jaw-dropping alpine peaks as they explore this famous road. There are many tours to Transfagarasan Highway from Sibiu, but you can’t properly experience the world’s best driving road without actually driving on it. That is why we highly recommend renting a car in Sibiu. Don’t worry, they are super affordable, especially if you can drive stick shift. And if you have more time, you can even do a Romania road trip !

The Transfagarasan Highway spans a total of 151 kilometer, and not every part is exciting. If you are visiting Transfagarasan Highway “DIY style”, then you mustn’t miss Balea Lake, a glacial lake sitting near the highest part of the Transfagarasan Highway. 

sibiu travel highlights

Visitors will find sweeping views of the entirety of the Transfagarasan Highway, fiercely traversing through the dramatic peaks of the Carpathian Mountain Range. The view of the Transfagarsam Highway at Balea Lake is unquestionably one of the best views in all of Romania. While your eyes are being blessed by the incredible sights, the crisp mountainous air will surely give you a natural high!

If the winding man-made road has not impressed you, the perfectly-still Balea Lake will surely bring you an unworldly sense of serenity. It’s glass-like water creates the perfect reflection of the stunning mountains in the background. Make sure you have lunch at Romania’s famous Hotel of Ice. Indulge in some traditional Romanian cuisine inside one of the most special settings in the world. If you have more time in Romania, it is also possible to stay at the ice hotel. It is definitely worth a consideration if you are interested in unique accommodation at one of the most picturesque locations in Romania.

If you are visiting between November 1st to July 1st, the Tranfsgarasan Highway is closed above 2,000 meters due to bad weather. In that case, you should drive to the cable car station and take a cable car up to Balea Lake. Though it is a little bit more complicated, the winter landscape makes the views even more surreal!

Don’t overstay at the Transfagasran Highway because you need to catch the sunset from the Lutheran Cathedral of Saint Mary. Surprisingly, the newly-renovated Lutheran Cathedral of Saint Mary offers the best panoramic views of the city. That is because it’s watchtower is situated over 70 meters above the ground, compared to the the second-best vantage point at the Council Tower, which is located about 45 meters high.

sibiu travel highlights

To visit the watchtower of the Lutheran Cathedral of Saint Mary, you must go with a tour guide. Visitors should personally visit the cathedral and secure their ticket the day before to ensure a stress-free visit. If you have mobility issues, just be aware that you will need to hike up multiple high wooden steps. Along the journey to the top, visitors can all see the internal foundations and structural elements of the building. Many of them are over hundreds of years old!

After your visit to the cathedral, enjoy a nice meal at Crama Sibiul Vechi, arguably the most famous restaurants in Sibiu. We recommend making a reservation though, especially if you are visiting during the peak seasons. 

Where to Stay In Sibiu

When picking the perfect place to stay in Sibiu, the most important thing to keep in mind is the location. Make sure your accommodation is located in the historic centre, otherwise you might need to walk a long time to get to the places you want to visit in Sibiu. To save you time from doing the research, here are some hotels in Sibiu we recommend:

  • Rabbit Hole

Located in the Piata Mare (The Large Square) of Sibiu, Rabbit Hole is one of the most convenient hotels in Sibiu. However, convenience isn’t the only thing you will find at Rabbit Hole. As a hotel with modern amenities in a historical building, guests will find a mixture of old and contemporary decor, all of which just oozes charm. The spacious rooms feature dreamy mattresses to provide you the perfect night’s rest. This elegant Sibiu hotel also serves a delicious breakfast, but unfortunately, it is not included in the price.

sibiu travel highlights

  • Vendi Grand Square Residence

Vendi Grand Square Residence is another accommodation situated in the Piata Mare (Large Square) of Sibiu. Unlike traditional hotels, the Vendi Grand Square eResidence offers self check-in, allowing you complete control of when you wish to arrive. The rooms at Vendi Grand Square Residence are spacious and get plenty of natural light. Guests will find a common area equipped with a kitchen, a lounge area, and a TV to use. Compared to traditional hotels, the Vendi Grand Square Residence offers an unmatched kind of homeyness. 

Author Bio: Hey, I am Sean Lau! In 2018, I left the comfort of my home and job in New York City to find out what truly inspires me. Since then, I have trekked through the Andes, tested my lungs at over 5,000 meters above sea level, encountered the world’s deadliest spider in the Amazon Rainforest, and explored the world’s most catastrophic nuclear disaster. On my blog , you will find personal information, guides and travel tips as I share my discoveries of the world. This is me Living Out Loud(Lau).

Read more of our Romania travel blogs

My Transylvania holiday: Bucharest, Brasov, the Ice Hotel and Bran Castle

The Travel Hack’s guide to Timisoara

10 reasons to add Timisoara to your weekend bucket list

How much does it cost for a weekend in Timisoara, Romania?

Curiously Erin Travel Blog

What To Do In Sibiu Romania [Ultimate 48-Hour Itinerary]

What To Do In Sibiu Romania [Ultimate 48-Hour Itinerary]

Located in the heart of Romania, Sibiu may just be one of the most  romantic cities in all of Europe . It boasts a history dating back to the 12th century, gorgeous street cafes, medieval towers, museums, and a maze of narrow cobbled lanes to get lost in. If you have  48 hours you’ll be wondering what to do in Sibiu,  this guide will be your best companion.

Not to mention Sibiu’s Christmas market is one of my favourite markets in Europe and tops the list for one of the best  Christmas destinations . Make sure to visit Sibiu while it’s still a hidden gem, before the crowds find out about it.

LOVE WINTER TRAVEL? –   The Ultimate Guide to Budapest in Winter

It is easy to see why Forbes named Sibiu the most idyllic town to live in 2008.  With only 48 hours to explore you need to make sure you have a plan otherwise you may lose hours wandering aimlessly through the beautiful streets.  Not that that’s a bad thing. Read on the best sites in Sibiu.

Disclaimer:   Some links in this article are affiliate links, which means that if you purchase through them, I receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. For more information on my disclaimer  click here .

  • 1 WHAT TO DO IN SIBIU IN 48 HOURS
  • 2 DAY 1 IN SIBIU
  • 3 BEGIN YOUR VISIT TO SIBIU AT PIATA MARE
  • 4.1 THE COUNCIL TOWER OF SIBIU
  • 4.2 THE LUTHERAN EVANGELICAL CATHEDRAL TOWER
  • 5 ENJOY A COFFEE IN PIATA MICA
  • 6 SEE SIBIU’S FAMOUS BRIDGE OF LIES
  • 7 VISIT SIBIU’S LOWER TOWN BY WAY OF PASSAGE OF STAIRS
  • 8 HAVE A LATE LUNCH AT OLD LISBON SIBIU
  • 9 VISIT THE SIBIU MUSEUM OF STEAM LOCOMOTIVES
  • 10 WHAT TO DO IN SIBIU – DAY 2
  • 11 HAVE BREAKFAST AT STRADA NICOLAE BALCESCU
  • 12 STROLL THROUGH CITADEL PARK
  • 13 SEE THE FORTIFICATION TOWERS
  • 14 MARVEL AT THE ORNATE HOLY TRINITY CHURCH AND CATHEDRAL
  • 15 SPOT THE HOUSES WITH EYES
  • 16.1 WHAT’S NEXT?

WHAT TO DO IN SIBIU IN 48 HOURS

This small city was an unexpected highlight of my time in Eastern Europe. After loving  Bucharest  and  Brasov  I didn’t think it possible to enjoy Sibiu even more. While the last recorded population of Sibiu puts it at almost half a million people back in 2012, this city has more of a small-town feel to it. With only 48 hours to explore, it is possible to squeeze in all of the city highlights.

DAY 1 IN SIBIU

Begin your visit to sibiu at piata mare.

The Piata Mare (Big Square) is the heart of the city so it makes sense to start your day here. Most of the city hotels will be within walking distance to here and is easy to find located in the Upper Town. Dating back to the 15th century, the square has been hosting cultural events and festivals since its early beginnings.

Bonus : Are you lucky enough to be visiting Sibiu around Christmas time? If so, Sibiu has  one of the best Christmas markets I have been to in all of Europe ! If you haven’t booked your trip to Sibiu yet, I would highly recommend visiting in December. Make sure you check out my guide to  Romania’s Christmas markets  for more info and the best  Christmas destinations in Europe .

Are looking for other beautiful Romanian places to visit? The town of  Baile Tusnad  is a winter wonderland waiting to be explored.

Piata Mare view from Council Tower

GET YOUR BEARINGS BY CLIMBING THE COUNCIL TOWER AND LUTHERAN EVANGELICAL CATHEDRAL TOWER

When you visit Sibiu, what better way to orientate yourself then climbing to the highest viewpoints? The best views can be found from the Council Tower located between Piata Mare and Piata Mica and the Lutheran Evangelical Cathedral Tower to the west of Piata Mare.

THE COUNCIL TOWER OF SIBIU

Located over the walkway between the big and small squares of Sibiu. Having previously served as a fire watch tower you will be rewarded with views over the Old Town of the city. In order to find the entrance, a small door under the archway hides the stairway to the 7-story clock tower which spirals up around the clock’s mechanism. Entry is 2 RON (.50c USD).

This is where you will find the unobstructed views of Piata Mare and the Christmas markets.

THE LUTHERAN EVANGELICAL CATHEDRAL TOWER

This cathedral dominates the city with its pointed towers and gothic style architecture. In case your phone doesn’t have a light, see if you can borrow a torch. The stairway leading up to the tower is unlit and very dark with uneven steep stairs. At the top, you have a 360-degree view of the city and can see as far as the Fagaras Mountains on a clear day. Entry costs 5 RON ($1.20 USD).

Historical Fact: The four turrets which surround the cathedral’s steeple signify to medieval visitors the town’s right to sentence you to death if you are to break the law.

ENJOY A COFFEE IN PIATA MICA

In English, Piata Mica translates to the small square and is easy to backtrack to once you have climbed the Cathedral Tower. Return to Piata Mica and order a coffee in one of the little cafes with outdoor dining scattered around the square. Relax here a moment and watch the locals passing by running their daily errands.

Even in the winter months, the Piata Mica cafes have enclosed their alfresco dining spaces to limit the chill factor and added gas heating. I loved sitting ‘outside’ but feeling so warm.

Even if you aren’t feeling coffee, this is a great place to have a nice glass of regular or mulled wine – making it the perfect refresher for ticking off the best things to do in Sibiu.

SEE SIBIU’S FAMOUS BRIDGE OF LIES

Exit Piata Mica to the east and see the first wrought iron bridge of Romania. While there are multiple legends behind this bridge, one in particular states the bridge has ears. If lies are being told by people crossing the bridge it will creak to deceive the untruthful. A second legend comes from the origins of the name being from the transitory vows of young lovers who would meet at the bridge.

VISIT SIBIU’S LOWER TOWN BY WAY OF PASSAGE OF STAIRS

One of the iconic things about Sibiu is the steep stairways which lead from the upper to lower town. If you are after a quality medieval-themed photo head to the Passage of Stairs. The stairways are cut into the city walls and are framed by stone archways.

HAVE A LATE LUNCH AT OLD LISBON SIBIU

Once you have strolled through the photogenic streets of the Old Town long enough to work up an appetite, stop for lunch at  Old Lisbon Sibiu . This modern European restaurant has friendly service, flavourful food and affordable tasty wines. The restaurant opens at 12:00 for lunch and dinner and can be found at Târgul Peștelui nr.4.

Tip: Make sure to try their chocolate lava cake for dessert. Yum!

⇒ See More:  Check out my budget-friendly guide to Cappadocia here

VISIT THE SIBIU MUSEUM OF STEAM LOCOMOTIVES

If you’re a train kinda person than this free museum is a must. Take a 15-20 minute stroll out of town until you reach the locomotive depot. The locomotives are located in the open and the grounds are lacking any sort of maintenance but it does show the history of the steam train.

Fun fact: Sibiu was the first place in Romania to have a railway

WHAT TO DO IN SIBIU – DAY 2

Have breakfast at strada nicolae balcescu.

Start your second day wandering down Nicolae Balcescu Street. This pedestrian street winds westward from Piata Mare and is lined with cute pastel coloured building.

Choose from the many cafes for breakfast which all support alfresco dining. If visiting in the winter, you can still feel like you are sitting outside. The outdoor areas are surrounded by clear enclosures and have heating lamps and blankets to keep you warm.

STROLL THROUGH CITADEL PARK

When you reach the end of Strada Nicolae Balcescu pop a left at the intersection and make your way to Citadel Park. This long tiered park is built on the old city wall with elevated views over the outer suburbs of Sibiu.

SEE THE FORTIFICATION TOWERS

Romania has a strong historic back story, like  Turkey . Throughout Citadel Park you can see the original fortifications towers which defended the city during the medieval period. There were originally  39 towers, five bulwarks, four gates and five artillery batteries  defending the city. The best place to view the wall and tower is at the southeastern end of the park.

MARVEL AT THE ORNATE HOLY TRINITY CHURCH AND CATHEDRAL

This majestic interior of both of these churches is something that cannot be missed. Both are richly decorated and showcase some wonderful artwork and architecture.

SPOT THE HOUSES WITH EYES

Another thing which makes Sibiu famous is the unique style of building. As you wander through the historic centre you may just get the feeling you are being watched. No, you’re not going crazy, take a closer look at the rooves as you pass and notice the eyes popping out. Yep, it’s true the houses in Sibiu have eyes!

VISIT BRUKENTHAL NATIONAL MUSEUM

Finally, end your second day back where you began in Piata Mare and head into the  Brukenthal National Museum . This museum was first built in the late 18th Century and was home to nobleman Samuel von Brukenthal. Each year on the 24th of July Sibiu celebrates the anniversary of Brukenthal and grants free entry to visitors.

WHAT’S NEXT?

Are you looking to experience more of the Romanian countryside? Then this great  4-day Transylvanian road trip itinerary  is for you.

Sibiu is well connected via the train line to take you into Hungary. We caught the train straight from here to Budapest which was a 10-hour journey – Make sure you bring snacks though as there is no food offered on the train.

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My name is Erin, the lady behind Curiously Erin. After more than 10 years of travelling and working abroad, I wanted to create a platform where I could share my stories and travels. My goal is to help you live the life you desire and inspire you to travel more.

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Top 10 Things to Do in Sibiu for the First-Time Visitor

Home » Visit » Travel Ideas » Top 10 Things to Do in Sibiu for the First-Time Visitor

  • Attractions in Transylvania
  • Travel Ideas
  • things to do
  • Transylvania

Diana Condrea

Check our local guide to some of the best things to do in Sibiu , a Cultural European Capital in 2007, and a constant presence in top places to visit in Romania.

In fact, a vacation to Transylvania is not complete without a stay in Sibiu, one of the seven fortified citadels built by the German colonists back in the Medieval Ages. One weekend is a good start to give you an idea of the city’s many attractions.

We include the very best of the historical sites as well as a few travel tips on its main events and must-see surroundings.

Leave your car behind. Sibiu is best seen on foot. Take a map and discover everything at your own pace.

Discover also our Sibiu Walking Tour

1. Explore the squares

The historical squares are hard to miss. You’ll find there the most important landmarks, many cafes, and restaurants making them a popular stop for tourists.

Let’s start with the biggest of all. The Large Square dates from the mid-14th century when the third fortification belt of the city was built. For centuries, the Large Square witnessed the main events of the cities, from public meetings to executions. The main attractions are Brukenthal Palace, the Blue House, the Haller House, and the Catholic Church.

The Large Square

In the Small Square, you’ll find the Council Tower, the Bridge of Lies, the Pharmacy Museum, the House of Arts, and the Ethnographic Museum. Most buildings in the square date from the 14th to the 16th century and were mainly craftsmen shops.

Smaller than the first two, Huet is the oldest of all. The grandiose Evangelical church, the Bruckenthal High School, fragments of the fortification wall, and the old Parish House are the must-see.

2. Visit at least one museum

Sibiu has the oldest museum in Romania and one of the largest open-air exhibitions in the country. The Brukenthal Museum from the Large Square was opened to the public in 1817 and exhibits one of the most important art collections in the country. You can also visit the nearby Pharmacy Museum from the Small Square. Coincidence or not, the first pharmacy in the country was opened in Sibiu in 1494.

Include also in your Sibiu walking tour one of the largest ethnographic museums in Romania and Europe, the Astra Museum . The open-air site from Dumbrava Forest is open all year long and is an excellent destination for families.

3. Admire the churches

Sibiu offers a rare chance to see three major churches of different confessions, all emblematic of the multicultural heritage of the region. The oldest is the Evangelical Church from Huet Square. It dates from the 14th century and has the tallest tower in Transylvania, impressive interiors, and a rare collection of funeral stones.

Go up to the tower for a panoramic view of the city.

Sibiu is also an important Orthodox center, and the Orthodox Cathedral, built between 1902 and 1904, is one of the biggest in the country. Its construction marked an important moment in the fight for political rights of the Romanians from Transylvania in the 19th century.

The Evangelical Church, Huet Square

A symbol of another fight, this time between the Habsburg Catholic and the local Protestant communities is the Catholic Church from the Large Square. Dating from 1733, the edifice blocked the view of the Evangelical Church, at the time when Transylvania became a province of the Austrian-Hungarian Empire. No Catholic church had been active in Sibiu for over one century until that moment.

4. Discover the old towers and fortifications

Walk the 141 steps of the Council Tower, and enjoy a great view of the city. Dating from the 14th century, the tower changed its features several times over the centuries. Only the ground floor and the first two levels are part of the original construction.

The nearby Stairs’ Tower is the oldest monument in the city, connecting the Lower and the Upper City. For more towers, head to Cetatii Street where you can see the fourth line of fortifications with the former Thick Tower, the Carpenters’ Tower, the Potters’ Tower, and the Arquebusiers’ Tower.

5. Walk on the Bridge of Lies

Take a walk on the Bridge of Lies, one of the symbols of the city, one of the top things to do in Sibiu. Dating from 1859, this is the first forged iron bridge in Romania and the second in Europe. The bridge has many legends, the most famous saying that it will collapse if those standing on it are telling lies.

The Liars’ Bridge

6. Enjoy the peace of old streets

A Sibiu walking tour isn’t complete without some of the oldest streets in the city. Walk on streets like General Magheru, Centumvirilor, Ioan Lupas, Alexandru Odobescu, Timotei Popovici, Selarilor, Xenopol, or  9 Mai, known in the past as Elisabeta, the oldest street in Sibiu.

7. Plan a cultural visit

Sibiu has one of the busiest cultural calendars in Romania and each season you have the chance to see great spectacles, exhibitions, fairs, and festivals. One of the most important events is the International Theatre Festival that takes place each year in June.

If you decide to go, be sure to book your tickets in advance. It’s no secret that attending this festival is one of the best things to do in Sibiu and tickets sell fast.

8. Try local gastronomy

A multicultural heritage often translates to delicious food and the varied and mouth-watering gastronomic delights of Sibiu are no exception. Local cuisine was deeply influenced along time by German and Hungarian recipes, making it a must-try on any trip here.

9. Go outside Sibiu

Add two more days to your visit if you want to explore the cultural and natural attractions around Sibiu. Visit the fortified churches around Sibiu: Cisnadie, Cisnadioara , Hosman, Valea Viilor, Alma Vii , and Biertan . Or drive the 20 km to the Cistercian Abbey of Carta .

Cisnadioara Church

For hikes and nature trips, try Cindrel and Fagaras Mountains . You can also go skiing in the mountain resort Paltinis.

10. Check the Christmas market

This annual tradition is one of the main events in the city. If you happen to be in Sibiu from the end of November until the end of December, be prepared to be entertained. Besides the themed decorations and traditional Christmas objects for sale, this major event also means concerts and lots of family fun.

We hope our guide to the best things to do in Sibiu will help you plan your stay in one of the loveliest cities in Transylvania.

Don’t forget to check out our Sibiu Walking Tour if you’re looking for a guided tour.

Where to stay in Sibiu

Book your accommodation in advance. We warmly recommend the guest houses Rosen Villa Sibiu , Maison Elysee , or Casa Timpuri Vechi . If you prefer to rent an apartment, try Casa Hermani , Apartament Piata Mica , Hermannstadt House , or Central Parc Studios .

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Travel tips

Location: Sibiu, Sibiu County

Closest city: Alba Iulia

Nearby attractions: Cindrel Natural Park, Fagaras Mountains, Ocna Sibiului and Paltinis Resorts, Transfagarasan Road

Access: DN1/E68 from Brasov

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Frieze L.A. 2024: Highlights From the Fair

Frieze Los Angeles opened on Thursday busier than ever.

The fair was quickly filled an hour into the VIP morning time, kicking off at 10 a.m. with a long line out the door at Santa Monica Airport. Inside the tent, it was buzzing.

Standing out among the artists on display was Gary Tyler, working at the intersection of art and social justice. He taught himself to quilt, creating works reflecting the years behind him.

"My work is basically a manifestation of my past and present life," said Tyler, who's represented by the Detroit-based gallery Library Street Collective.

Back in 1974, while a high schooler in Louisiana, he was among Black students on a bus attacked by a white mob angered by school integration. A young white boy was shot and killed as a result. At the age of 16, Tyler was tried as an adult and reportedly wrongly convicted of first-degree murder for the crime by an all-white jury. He was the youngest person on death row when he entered Louisiana State Penitentiary, where he spent 42 years before being released at age 57.

"This piece is shown as an exhibit of me getting on death row," he said of a black-and-white quilt on the wall, depicting a body behind bars. "That's my death row number, C 127. And this is the cell I was in, cell 8."

Of a piece on the end, a self-portrait with his hands crossed, he said: "This one, sitting down, it's a reflection that I'm talking through with someone."

Now 65, Tyler is living and working in L.A. His work is in the collection of the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C. He's a Right of Return Fellow, which is aimed at advancing criminal and racial justice, and winner of the 2024 Frieze Impact Prize, in partnership with the Center for Art & Advocacy.

"It's an honor being recognized for my works," he added. "It was never my intention to travel down that road, but sometimes people don't have control of their future or how their future turns out."

As Frieze L.A. continues to grow, now in its fifth edition, there's a commitment to shedding light on pressing social issues as part of its programming, as well as a bigger emphasis on West Coast art. For Jessica Silverman - the name behind the celebrated contemporary art gallery in San Francisco - the focus is on women this year.

"We're showing all women," she said. "And that sort of just happened naturally when I started thinking about the booth in terms of landscape, initially."

The space featured worked by artists Hayal Pozanti and Rupy C. Tut.

"I'm thinking a lot about, with this booth, how working women, mothers, rest and find moments of repose," Silverman explained.

At the center hung bronze bells by Davina Semo.

"They may feel like a loud cacophony, but actually, when you ring the bell, it's a zen moment. So even amidst this kind of hectic fair, people get to feel something in their body and have a moment of breath," she went on. "We used to just ring them when there was a sale, but now they're just ringing, sales or not."

Up for sale, front and center, was "Heights" by Rose B. Simpson, a more than four-foot-tall sculpture made of clay, glaze, twine and silver.

"It's significant because Rose is a single mother," Silverman said. "She talks a lot about the view that she wants her daughter to have of the world in front of her. And so this idea of seeing above the head of the mother, putting the daughter on her shoulders, this kind of headdress signifies this idea that our youth can see beyond what we see as adults. That really is the vision of the future."

The fair united more than 95 exhibitors from 21 countries, with nearly 50 percent dedicated to galleries operating in the Greater L.A. area.

"I have to say, San Francisco has also just descended on L.A.," Silverman added. "At my hotel for breakfast I saw, like, 20 collectors. So that's also exciting for me, that people are coming here."

Christine Messineo, Frieze's director of Americas, and Essence Harden, the visual arts curator of the California African American Museum, are behind the expansion - showcasing a mix of known names and up-and-comers. Harden was tapped to oversee "Focus," a section highlighting U.S. galleries that have been in operation for 12 years or less. There are 12 in total, with eight of them making their Frieze debuts, including L.A.-based Babst Gallery, Matthew Brown and Dominique Gallery. They showed alongside major international exhibitors, including Gagosian, Hauser & Wirth, Pace Gallery, White Cube and David Zwirner.

"I think I'm about a third of the way through," said Joanne Heyler, founding director and president of The Broad, downtown L.A.'s contemporary art museum cofounded by philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad.

"What is really standing out to me is that it feels very focused and disciplined this year," she went on, walking the fair on opening day. "And not just in terms of a selection of galleries, but also in terms of what the galleries are putting up. And there's much more of a feeling that each booth, whether it's multi-artists, or whether it's a single artist, is thoughtful and easier on the eyes than some other art fairs that I've been to in the past. And so I'm really pleased to see that."

Fourteen exhibitors were new to Frieze L.A., with a strong representation from Asia.

"We're very excited to be in L.A.," said art dealer and gallery owner Tina Kim, who's based in New York.

Known for introducing Asian artists to the U.S. market, the spotlight in her booth was on South Korean artists Ha Chong-Hyun, Mire Lee, Suki Seokyeong Kang and Gimhongsok. She was also celebrating Filipino artist Pacita Abad, whose show at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art will soon open at MoMA PS1 in Queens. Abad's work will be shown at the Venice Biennale this year.

"When I come to L.A., I am very excited to see the institutions here and their focus," she said, highlighting the "Only the Young" show at the Hammer Museum - the first exhibition in North America to explore art emerging in South Korea in the decades following the Korean War. She had three artists represented in the show, which debuted at the Guggenheim in New York before traveling to L.A.

"You know, I think it really shows with Hammer bringing the ‘Only the Young' show - ICA [Institute of Contemporary Art] has an Asian American art show right now and MOCA with Clara Kim [as chief curator and director of curatorial affairs], they have a very powerful Paul Pfeiffer show - West Coast museums are really looking into diversity and making research-focused exhibitions, which is very exciting for me," she added.

Launch Gallery: Frieze L.A. Opens For Its Fifth Year at the Santa Monica Airport

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