Explore Sibiu

Sibiu is a city in Transylvania, central Romania. It’s known for Germanic architecture in its old town, the legacy of 12th-century Saxon settlers. Around the city are the remains of medieval walls and towers, including the 13th-century Council Tower. In the upper town, Brukenthal Palace now houses the Brukenthal National Museum, with European paintings. The nearby Evangelical Cathedral has gravestones in its walls. ― Google

📅 Best Time to Visit

  • May to October: Perfect weather for sightseeing and walking tours.

  • December: Famous for its magical Christmas market in the Grand Square.

  • September: Ideal for fewer crowds and golden autumn light.

🚗 How to Get There

  • By car or train: About 4.5–5.5 hours from Bucharest, 3 hours from Brașov.

  • By air: Sibiu International Airport (SBZ) offers domestic and European flights.

  • Public transport: Local buses and taxis are available, though the city center is best explored on foot.

🏰 Top Attractions

  • Piața Mare (Big Square): The heart of Sibiu, surrounded by historic buildings and museums.

  • Piața Mică (Small Square) & Huet Square: Connected plazas with charming cafés and architecture.

  • Brukenthal Palace & Art Museum: One of Romania’s finest art collections in an 18th-century palace.

  • Council Tower (Turnul Sfatului): Climb for panoramic views over the rooftops.

  • Liar’s Bridge (Podul Minciunilor): The oldest cast-iron bridge in Romania, wrapped in legends.

  • Lutheran Cathedral of Saint Mary: A Gothic landmark with a tall spire and centuries of history.

🎯 Things to Do

  • Wander the Old Town, especially at golden hour — it’s full of character and photogenic corners.

  • Climb church towers and city walls for medieval views.

  • Attend cultural events — Sibiu hosts the Sibiu International Theatre Festival, classical concerts, and art fairs.

  • Visit the ASTRA Museum of Traditional Folk Civilization: An expansive open-air museum just outside the city with reconstructed Romanian village life.

  • Browse bookstores and artisan shops, many located in historic courtyards.

🛏️ Accommodation

  • Boutique hotels and guesthouses inside the Old Town offer the best atmosphere.

  • Stylish apartments are available for families and longer stays.

  • Eco-lodges and rural inns nearby provide countryside escapes.

🍽️ Food & Drink

  • Transylvanian cuisine blends Romanian, Saxon, and Hungarian flavors.

  • Must-try dishes:

    • Ciorbă de perișoare (meatball soup)

    • Gulaș, mămăligă, and sarmale

    • Kürtőskalács (chimney cake)

  • Excellent wine bars, bakeries, and modern restaurants with local twists.

  • Coffee culture is strong — enjoy cozy cafés with terrace views in the squares.

✅ Local Culture

  • Sibiu was a European Capital of Culture in 2007, and the cultural energy still thrives.

  • The city has deep Saxon (German) roots, visible in its architecture and bilingual signs.

  • Locals are welcoming, proud of their heritage, and active in preserving traditions.

  • Craftsmanship, folk art, and storytelling are integral to the city’s personality.


Travel Tips

  • Stay at least 2 nights to enjoy the relaxed pace and explore nearby villages.

  • Bring layers — mountain weather can change quickly.

  • Plan ahead for festivals and events, especially in summer or December.

  • Visit the ASTRA Museum with time — it can take several hours to explore properly.