If you’re planning a trip through Transylvania, Sibiu should be one of your two or three priority stops.
What I loved is that I didn’t feel rushed to check things off a list. While there’s a lot to see in Sibiu, the old town is so well connected and captivating that you’ll naturally want to wander for hours and soak in the setting. It also didn’t feel like a city built solely for tourists. Outside of the old town, Sibiu still had a nice feel to it.
Here’s a complete overview of how to visit Sibiu, from must-see tourist spots to lesser-explored local areas, along with answers to common questions like where to stay, where to eat, and how much time you need.
Where Is Sibiu?
Sibiu sits right in the middle of Romania and has long been one of the most important cities in Transylvania. It’s located about 100 kilometers west of Brașov, 100 kilometers southeast of Cluj, and just north of the towering Făgăraș Mountain range.
How to Get to Sibiu
Most travelers arrive from Brașov, Cluj-Napoca, or Timișoara.
From Brașov, it’s one of the easiest connections in the country, around two hours by car and just under three by train. I’d take the train from Brașov to Sibiu if you have the option, as it’s a pleasant ride. If you want to see more of the countryside and mountains, renting a car is worth it.
Cluj-Napoca to Sibiu is about two hours by car, though trains take longer because they wind through the mountains.
From Timișoara, expect about three hours of driving. There’s no direct train, so a bus or rental car is your best option. Corvin Castle, one of Romania’s finest castles, is right on the way and makes for a perfect stop.
Related: Brasov vs. Sibiu: Which to Visit?
Why Is Sibiu Worth Visiting?
What stood out to me about Sibiu wasn’t just how it looked. It was how easy it was to enjoy. Some cities feel like you need to keep moving to get your money’s worth. Sibiu is the opposite. You can slow down and still feel like you’re experiencing a lot.
The old town is pedestrian-friendly and extremely clean. The squares are active without being crowded. You’ll see families out late, people sitting at terraces for hours, and a general sense that the city is actually used by locals, not just tourists.
Then there’s the history, which isn’t just something you read about. Sibiu was one of the most important fortified cities in Transylvania, surrounded by walls, towers, and bastions, and many of those defenses still exist today.
For much of the 17th and 18th centuries, Sibiu served as the administrative capital of Transylvania. At the time, it was a major trade center for Saxon settlers. For hundreds of years, even into the early 20th century, this was primarily a German-speaking city. You still see that influence today in building names, landmarks, and architecture that feels closer to Central Europe than Eastern Europe. “Hermannstadt” is the German name for the city and can still be seen throughout.
It was also one of the wealthiest cities in the region during medieval times, largely because of trade. That wealth shows in how well everything has been maintained.
While many places in Europe feel overrun in the summer, Sibiu still feels manageable. You get the beauty without the chaos.
Things to See and Do in Sibiu
Despite its size, there’s plenty to do. Here’s what I’d recommend:
Piața Mare (Big Square)
Piața Mare is where everything starts. It’s the largest square in the city and the main gathering place. When I arrived, there was a full orchestra performing in the middle, which set the tone immediately.
Even when nothing is scheduled, it’s a great place to hang out. Restaurants line the edges, and it’s one of the best spots for people-watching.
Piața Mică (Small Square)
Just one block away from Piața Mare is Piața Mică (“Little Square”). This square is more enclosed and has a quieter vibe. There was actually a beach volleyball tournament happening in this square when we arrived though.
Evangelical Cathedral of Saint Mary
Built in the late 14th century, this is one of the best examples of Gothic architecture in the region. Climbing to the top gives you one of the best views in the city.
Council Tower
Right between the two squares sits the Council Tower of Sibiu. It’s one of the best viewpoints in the city, along with the cathedral, and worth doing early in your trip. The climb is short, and the view helps you understand how the old town is laid out and what medieval markets may have looked like.
Bridge of Lies
The Bridge of Lies is both an important piece of architectural history and a local folklore landmark. It’s the first cast iron bridge in Romania, built in 1860, and legend says it collapses if you tell a lie while standing on it. I tested this theory, and unfortunately, it might not be true.
Holy Trinity Cathedral
This cathedral offers a completely different architectural style. It’s more modern and built in a Byzantine style, which contrasts nicely with the medieval surroundings.
I happened to park right underneath it when we arrived. Looking up at the lights reflecting off the building at night was mesmerizing, especially with doves flying around.
Carpenters’ Tower
Adding to Sibiu’s architectural depth is Carpenters’ Tower. Built in the 1300s, it has an octagonal, pyramid-shaped roof made of brick and stone and is surrounded by fortified walls. You don’t need much time here, but it’s worth seeing.
Muzeul ASTRA
Muzeul ASTRA is a fantastic cultural experience. It’s the largest open-air museum in Europe and sits a few miles from the center. The museum recreates traditional village life in Transylvania. You could easily spend a few hours here, or even half a day.
Sub Arini Park
Sub Arini Park is worth visiting if you have more than a day. It’s a massive park on the south side of the city with miles of running, cycling, and walking trails. I went for a run and ended up exploring the surrounding neighborhood on a scooter, which I’d recommend.
The Eyes of Sibiu
One thing you’ll notice in the old town is that the attic dormers resemble eyelids. These are known as “The Eyes of Sibiu,” and they’re a unique feature that adds to the city’s character.
Where to Eat in Sibiu
Great food exists in Sibiu, but you kind of have to know where to look.
SPIC Paste și Vin was the most memorable meal I had and is a must for dinner. The location at the base of the cathedral is hard to beat, especially if you can get a table outside. La Cuptor is another solid dinner option.
Lumos Coffee and Brunch was my go-to breakfast spot. I went twice and would have gone again. The Turkish breakfast was excellent. Ouă și Unt is another good brunch option.
Cafe Wien has one of the more unique patios in the city and is a great place for a drink around sunset.
Coffee Shops in Sibiu
Hug the Mug is my favorite spot in the old town. It’s a good place to sit for a while, with plenty of space and a comfortable patio.
EROS Coffee House, located closer to the business district, ended up being my overall favorite. You’ll likely pass it on the way to Sub Arini Park. There’s a NATO headquarters nearby, which explains the number of military members I saw grabbing coffee there.
Best Time to Visit Sibiu
Summer is the easiest time to visit, with good weather and plenty going on. After dropping our bags, we walked to Piața Mare and found an outdoor symphony in progress. In nearby Piața Mică, there was a beach volleyball tournament. It was a great introduction to the city. There are also festivals and markets, including the International Theatre Festival in June.
The nearby mountains help keep the heat from becoming overwhelming.
Winter brings a completely different atmosphere, with a Christmas market that’s one of the most underrated in Europe. I haven’t visited in winter, but it’s easy to imagine how peaceful and scenic it would be.
Spring and fall are quieter. Fall, in particular, brings mild temperatures and great color in the surrounding forests.
Day Trips From Sibiu
Sibiu works well as a base for several day trips.
Transfăgărășan Highway and Bâlea Lake
This is one of the most famous drives in Europe. It takes about 2.5 hours each way, though you don’t need to drive the full route. Near the highest point, you’ll reach Bâlea Lake, which is worth the trip on its own. If you’re up for it, hike from Bâlea Lake to Capra Lake.
Corvin Castle
One of the most impressive castles in Romania. It’s about 1.5 hours by car or two hours by train to Hunedoara.
Transylvanian Villages
The surrounding countryside offers a look at traditional life. These villages are quiet and largely unchanged. We spent two nights in Viscri, which felt frozen in time. It’s one of seven UNESCO-listed fortified villages and well worth a visit.
Turda Salt Mine
About two hours north of Sibiu, this is one of the country’s most unique attractions. The mine extends deep underground and includes multiple levels, an underground lake, a boat ride, and even mini golf.
Where to Stay in Sibiu
I stayed at ART Hotel and would recommend it without hesitation. The location is excellent, just steps from Piața Mare. Rooms were clean and spacious, and the breakfast was very good.
Other strong options include Hermannstadt House Sibiu and Artisans Boutique Villa.
How Many Days Do You Need in Sibiu?
You can see the highlights in one day, but it will feel rushed.
Two nights is ideal. That gives you enough time to explore the old town and still see something outside the center.
If you want to add day trips, three nights works even better.
Getting Around Sibiu
Sibiu is very walkable. You don’t need a car to see most of it, even areas outside the old town. We rented scooters and explored farther out, but you can still reach places like Sub Arini Park on foot.
The one exception is Muzeul ASTRA. You’ll need to take an Uber to get there.
Affordability and Prices in Sibiu
Sibiu, like most of Romania, remains very affordable for travelers. Expect to pay around $2 for a coffee, $2 for a beer, $4-5 for a cocktail, and about $15 for a nice meal. Hotels and guesthouses range from $50 to $100 per night, depending on quality. Plus, most of the best things to do and see in Sibiu are free!
Nightlife in Sibiu
Sibiu isn’t a party city. You won’t find much late-night clubbing, but it’s not boring either. People are usually out until around midnight, and several bars stay open until 2:00 a.m., some with live music or karaoke.
We had a fun time at St. Andrew’s Scottish Pub, which had a really welcoming atmosphere. Oldies Pub and Cotton Pub are other options, with the latter being one of the most club-like atmospheres you can find in the city. Finally, Music Pub is a good spot for live music.
In-Summary: Visiting Sibiu
Sibiu is a city that I have a hard time imagining anyone not enjoying. The atmosphere throughout the old town is lovely, in fact it was one of my favorite old towns in Europe. And even the rest of the city felt very livable, clean and green. It’s also a perfect size to explore over the course of a couple of days.
All in all, I wouldn’t visit Transylvania without visiting Sibiu. It’s arguably my No. 1 must-see place in Romania.
