Sibiu is a charming city nestled in the heart of Transylvania, Romania. Known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and stunning architecture, Sibiu is a popular destination for tourists seeking a unique and authentic experience. From exploring medieval fortresses to admiring art in museums, there is no shortage of things to do and see in this enchanting city. In this post, we’ll dive into the best attractions and activities that Sibiu has to offer, providing an insider’s perspective on how to make the most of your visit. Get ready to discover the hidden gems and must-see sights of Sibiu!

The 3 Best Guided Tours in Sibiu

1. Saxon Heritage in Transylvania Day Trip from Cluj Napoca
2. Day Trip from Sibiu to Dacian Fortress Hunyadi Castle and Alba Iulia
3. Sibiu Sightseeing Tour

The 3 Best Guided Tours in Sibiu

1. Saxon Heritage in Transylvania Day Trip from Cluj Napoca

Spend a day exploring the rich Saxon heritage of Transylvania with this day trip from Cluj Napoca. Your journey begins with a scenic drive to the beautiful city of Sibiu, known as the “European Capital of Culture”. You’ll learn about the Saxons’ roots and their cultural impact on Romania, before embarking on a tour of the old town. Discover the well-preserved medieval architecture, including the city walls and three main squares. You’ll also visit two important churches and climb to the top of the Council Tower for stunning views.

In the afternoon, your adventure continues as you explore two authentic rural villages – Sibiel and Fantanele – that seem to be frozen in time. Immerse yourself in the locals’ way of life and learn about their traditions and crafts. You’ll return to Cluj Napoca in the evening, filled with a deeper understanding of Transylvania’s rich history and culture. Enjoy the beautiful countryside along the way and create unforgettable memories on this unique tour.

2. Day Trip from Sibiu to Dacian Fortress Hunyadi Castle and Alba Iulia

Explore the best Transylvania attractions on this full-day private tour, starting with pickup from your hotel in Sibiu at 8:00 AM. Travel in comfort between locations in an air-conditioned vehicle and enjoy personalized attention from your own personal tour guide. Visit Corvin Castle, known for its Gothic architecture, and the mysterious Dacian Fortresses. Experience the picturesque city of Alba Iulia and learn about the in-depth history of each location from your guide. Return to your hotel in Sibiu after a relaxed day of sightseeing. Please note that confirmation will be received at the time of booking and the tour is not wheelchair accessible. Fuel surcharge, driver and local guide are included, but food and drinks are not.

3. Sibiu Sightseeing Tour

Experience the charm of Sibiu on a sightseeing tour of the medieval city center and discover the highlights of Upper Town. Immerse yourself in the cultural life of one of Romania’s most bohemian cities and get stunning views of the Făgăraș Mountains. Start on the Grand Square and admire the elegant architecture and the Renaissance-style Haller House. See the Brukenthal National Museum, housed in an Habsburg palace.

Take a walk up the Passage of Stairs in the Lower Town and admire the iconic Council Tower. Visit historical churches and explore the peaceful courtyards, colorful buildings, and mysterious passageways that make Sibiu so enchanting. Pass the elegant Thalia Hall, where many of the city’s concerts are held. Don’t miss the remains of the old city walls and join the hustle and bustle of Cibin Market.

This tour of Sibiu is perfect for those who want to discover the best of the city and be enriched by its fascinating history and cultural life.

Discovering Sibiu: Answering The Most Commonly Asked Tourist Questions

If you’re planning a trip to Romania, Sibiu should be on your list of must-visit cities. This charming city in Transylvania is known for its picturesque streets, historic architecture, and vibrant culture. But before you book your trip, you probably have a lot of questions about Sibiu. In this blog post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions by tourists to help you plan your trip with ease.

1. Where is Sibiu located?

Sibiu is a city in the heart of Transylvania, located in central Romania. It’s surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains and sits on the banks of the Cibin River. The city is easily accessible by car or public transportation, with regular bus and train service from other major cities in Romania.

2. What is the best time to visit Sibiu?

Sibiu has something to offer visitors year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. The city experiences a mix of continental climate and oceanic climate, meaning that summers are warm and winters can be quite cold. Spring and fall are often considered the best times to visit, with comfortable temperatures and less tourist crowds. But if you’re looking for winter sports or Christmas markets, December is a great time to visit.

3. What are the top attractions in Sibiu?

Sibiu is a city steeped in history and culture, and there are endless sightseeing options. Here are some of the top attractions you shouldn’t miss:

Old Town

The historic center of Sibiu, also known as the Old Town, is a stunning display of medieval architecture. The area is home to the Great Square, the Lesser Square, and the Huet Square, as well as numerous museums, cathedrals, and art galleries.

Brukenthal National Museum

This museum is the largest and one of the oldest museums in Romania. It houses a vast collection of art, history, and natural science exhibits, as well as a library and archive.

Astra Museum of Traditional Folk Civilization

This open-air museum features over 300 traditional buildings and exhibits showcasing the history and culture of Transylvania. It’s a great way to experience the region’s rural lifestyle and architecture.

Transfagarasan Highway

If you’re up for a road trip, the Transfagarasan Highway offers some of the most stunning views in Romania. This winding mountain road connects Sibiu to Bucharest and passes through the Fagaras Mountains and Balea Lake.

4. What are the best places to eat in Sibiu?

Sibiu is known for its delicious Romanian cuisine, with many restaurants showcasing the region’s traditional dishes. Here are some top recommendations:

Crama Sibiul Vechi

Located in the heart of the Old Town, this cozy restaurant serves classic Romanian dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.

Max

Max is a popular steakhouse offering an extensive menu of grilled meats and seafood, as well as vegetarian and vegan options.

La Taifas

This local favorite serves up traditional Romanian dishes in a rustic, cozy atmosphere. Don’t miss their hearty soups and stews.

5. What are some fun things to do in Sibiu?

Sibiu offers plenty of activities for visitors of all ages. Here are some of the most fun things to do in the city:

Bike Tours

Sibiu is a bike-friendly city, and there are many companies offering guided bike tours of the city and its surroundings. It’s a great way to get some exercise and see the sights.

Climb the Council Tower

The Council Tower is a historic landmark in the Old Town and offers stunning views of the city from its observation deck.

Sibiu International Theatre Festival

If you’re visiting in June, don’t miss the Sibiu International Theatre Festival, one of the largest and most prestigious theater festivals in Europe.

Visit the ASTRA Open-Air Museum

As mentioned above, the ASTRA Open-Air Museum offers a unique look at traditional Romanian culture and architecture. It’s a great place to spend a day with the family.

6. Is Sibiu safe for tourists?

Sibiu is generally a safe city for tourists, with a low crime rate and friendly locals. However, like any city, it’s important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. It’s also recommended to only use licensed taxi services and avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Sibiu

As one of Romania’s most charming cities, Sibiu is an excellent destination for a vacation. Its rich history, medieval architecture, thriving arts and cultural scenes, and bustling street life make it perfect for tourists of all ages. If you’re planning a trip to Sibiu, here’s how to make the most of your time there.

Day 1: Explore the Historic Centre

The historic centre of Sibiu, also known as the Old Town, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that truly transports visitors back in time. This area is home to some of Sibiu’s most famous landmarks and attractions, including:

1. Piata Mare

Piata Mare is the main square of Sibiu and a great starting point for your tour. It’s a large pedestrianised square with an impressive fountain at the centre, surrounded by some of Sibiu’s most beautiful buildings. One of these is the Brukenthal Palace, now home to the Brukenthal National Museum. You can also visit the Council Tower that is open to the public and you can admire the stunning view from the top.

2. Piata Mica

Piata Mica, or the Small Square, is another must-see of the Old Town. This picturesque square, surrounded by colourful buildings, has a medieval feel and it’s just perfect for a coffee break, enjoying the old Saxon buildings or just enjoying the serenity.

3. The Evangelical Church

The Evangelical Church, also called the Lutheran Cathedral, is one of the most significant landmarks in Sibiu. This impressive Gothic-style church has been standing here since the 16th century and you can climb to the top of the church tower for amazing views over the city.

4. Bridge of Lies

Legend has it that the Bridge of Lies, the first iron bridge of Romania, got its name because if a lie is told on it, the bridge would shake. So make sure you are telling the truth when going over it.

Day 2: Cultural Tour and Local cuisine

Sibiu has a rich artistic, historical and cultural heritage. Here’s what you should include on your second day:

1. ASTRA Museum of Traditional Folk Civilization

The ASTRA Museum of Traditional Folk Civilization is an open-air museum where you can discover the authentic traditional architecture and lifestyle of Romanian villages. Set in a beautiful forest, you can spend several hours just strolling around and interacting with the skilled artisans that still demonstrate their traditional crafts.

2. Museum of History

The Museum of History of Sibiu boasts an impressive collection of artefacts and documents. You can discover the rich history of Sibiu from ancient to modern times, displays include Roman artifacts, medieval weapons or objects related to the glory days of the region of Transylvania.

3. Local Cuisine Tour

Romanian food is a delicious mix of Balkan, Turkish and Hungarian influence. Here’s what you need to try while in Sibiu:Sibiu’s most famous local dish is the “sarmale”, a roll of minced pork or beef wrapped in cabbage or grape leaves, served with polenta and sour cream.Another delicious local specialty that you should not miss is the “mici”, small grilled minced meat heavily seasoned with herbs and garlic, served with mustard and bread.For dessert, try the “papanasi”, which are fluffy fried doughnuts served with a topping of sour cream and fruit sauce.

Day 3: Nature Hike and Scenic Drive

Sibiu is surrounded by beautiful rural and mountainous landscapes. Here’s what you can do on your last day:

1. Fagaras Mountains and Transfagarasan Road

The Fagaras Mountains are the highest mountains in Romania and the Transfagarasan road that crosses them is one of the most breathtaking roads in Europe. With its spectacular views and hairpin turns, this winding road is a must-see if you’re visiting Sibiu.

2. Paltinis Ski Resort

Paltinis is a cosy ski resort located on a beautiful plateau in the Cindrel Mountains, only 35 km from Sibiu. It’s the perfect place to go hiking or skiing, depending on the season.

3. Dumbrava Forest

Dumbrava Forest is a beautiful forest park situated in the immediate vicinity of Sibiu. You can stroll along marked paths, through the dark pine woods and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Book Your Tour Now

Sibiu is a charming and exciting city that caters to every taste, from history lovers to nature enthusiasts, gastronomes and culture fans. With this itinerary, you’ll be able to explore the best of what Sibiu has to offer in just three days. So pack your bags, book your ticket and start your adventure!