Discover Sibiu: The Heart of Transylvania

The beating heart of Sibiu, this magnificent square has been the city's central gathering place since 1366. Measuring 142 by 92 meters, it's one of Transylvania's largest squares and hosts major festivals including Romania's renowned Christmas Market. The square is surrounded by elegant bourgeois houses, the Brukenthal Palace, and the iconic Council Tower. Beautifully renovated in 2007, it showcases stunning architecture and serves as the perfect starting point for exploring the Old Town. The square comes alive with outdoor cafés, cultural events, and street performers, offering an authentic taste of Transylvanian life.

Standing sentinel between the Great and Small Squares, this seven-storey tower is Sibiu's enduring symbol. Built in the late 13th century as part of the city's second ring of fortifications, it served as a watchtower and gateway. Climb 141 steps to reach the observation deck for breathtaking panoramic views over the Old Town's terracotta rooftops and the distant Făgăraș Mountains. The tower features two lion reliefs carved in the late 16th century on its south side. At just 2 LEI entrance fee (less than $0.50), this is one of Europe's best bargain viewpoints. Open daily 10:00-20:00, the tower offers magnificent sunset vistas.

Romania's first cast-iron bridge, built in 1859, connects the Small Square with the Lower Town. According to legend, the bridge would creak or collapse if someone told a lie while crossing it. This charming pedestrian bridge, adorned with beautiful ironwork details, offers picturesque views and photo opportunities. Medieval merchants would swear oaths here, making it a historic commercial hub. The bridge spans impressive brick embankments and has become one of Sibiu's most photographed landmarks. Popular folklore also suggests the bridge was a favorite meeting place for young lovers who would test each other's honesty.

Despite its name, this 'Small Square' is actually quite spacious with an irregular, charming shape. Lined with 14th to 16th-century merchants' houses featuring shaded arcades and the iconic 'eyes of Sibiu' dormer windows, the square exudes medieval atmosphere. A spiraling cobblestone street descends from the center to the Lower Town. The square hosts craft markets and outdoor dining, creating a vibrant yet intimate atmosphere. Connected to the Great Square through the Council Tower passage, it served as a secondary marketplace and artisan hub during medieval times.

One of Sibiu's most distinctive features, these unique dormer windows create the impression that buildings are watching over the streets. Originally designed as ventilation for attic spaces where Saxon merchants stored perishable goods like grain and meat, these half-moon windows became a defining architectural characteristic. Found throughout the Old Town, particularly around the Small Square and Nicolae Bălcescu Street, they add a mysterious and whimsical charm to the cityscape. These 'eyes' have become a symbol of Sibiu, representing the city's watchful preservation of its heritage and creating countless photo opportunities for visitors.

Sibiu's impressive defensive system, dating from the 12th century, includes five towers and bastions connected by ramparts. The most notable include the Carpenters' Tower (14th century), the Stairs Tower guarding the passage to Lower Town, and sections along Cetatii Street (Fortress Street) featuring a rare guard corridor. These fortifications once comprised three concentric rings protecting one of Transylvania's wealthiest Saxon cities. The remarkably preserved walls offer insight into medieval military architecture and the city's strategic importance. Some sections are now accessible to visitors, providing unique perspectives of the Old Town.

This atmospheric covered stairway connects Upper Town with Lower Town, passing beneath the imposing Lutheran Cathedral. The narrow passage features elegant flying buttresses and creates a dramatic architectural experience. Historic stone steps descend past centuries-old walls, offering a glimpse into Sibiu's medieval urban planning where wealthy families and clergy lived above, while craftsmen and merchants worked below. At the bottom, you'll find the Golden Barrel (Butoiul de Aur), Romania's oldest restaurant. This essential thoroughfare captures the essence of old Transylvania.

Romania's oldest museum (opened 1817) and one of Europe's first public museums, second only to the Louvre and British Museum. Founded by Baron Samuel von Brukenthal, Governor of Transylvania, the museum complex spans six locations. The main palace houses the European Art Gallery with approximately 1,200 works including pieces by Van Eyck, Memling, and Titian - the only Romanian museum with such masterpieces. Additional branches include the Museum of Natural History, History Museum, Pharmacy Museum (where homeopathy was invented), Hunting Museum, and Contemporary Art Gallery. The Brukenthal Library contains 300,000 volumes including the illuminated 16th-century Brukenthal Breviary. Winner of the European Union Prize for Cultural Heritage.

The largest open-air museum in Europe, covering 96 hectares (0.96 square kilometers) in Dumbrava Forest, 3km south of the city center. Over 300 authentic buildings showcase traditional Romanian folk civilization from the pre-industrial era, including houses, churches, windmills, watermills, workshops, and technical installations from all Romanian regions. The museum features 10km of walking paths around two artificial lakes, six thematic groups, and a modern wood sculpture exhibition. Highly awarded for its preservation of rural heritage, ASTRA offers a comprehensive journey through Romanian village life, traditional crafts, and folk technology. Plan several hours to fully explore this remarkable outdoor collection. Entry: 35 RON.

Located in a historic 1569 building housing Sibiu's first pharmacy, this fascinating museum showcases over 6,000 ancient medical instruments and dispensing tools. The basement is where Samuel Hahnemann invented homeopathy in 1797, making it a pilgrimage site for alternative medicine history. The museum recreates an 18th-century apothecary with Viennese-style wooden counters, glass jars, and pharmaceutical equipment. Features two laboratories, a homeopathic sector, and documentation area with valuable collections of wooden pharmaceutical jars. The reconstructed shop atmosphere provides unique insight into Transylvanian medical practices when Sibiu had more chemists than anywhere else in the region.

Housed in the Altemberger House, considered Transylvania's most important non-religious Gothic architecture ensemble. The museum presents Southern Transylvania's history from Neolithic and Roman periods through the Middle Ages and Baroque era. Collections include prehistoric artifacts, medieval relics, minerals, ecological displays, and paleontology exhibits. Originally focused on Hermannstadt (Sibiu's German name) and surroundings, it now reflects the entire Southern Transylvania region. The Gothic building itself, with foundation elements from the 13th century, is an architectural treasure worth exploring.

Dedicated to presenting the Transylvanian Saxon contribution to Romanian culture, this specialized museum features over 2,700 ceramic pieces, 4,000 textile and costume objects, and 400 wooden, metal, or bone artifacts including 150 painted furniture items. The collection includes a permanent exposition of decorative tiles. Named after Emil Sigerus, the museum fills an important gap by documenting the Saxon ethnic group's role in Transylvanian civilization. Located in the Small Square adjacent to the Franz Binder Museum, it offers insight into the German-speaking community that shaped Sibiu's character.

One of Transylvania's largest and most impressive Gothic churches, built between 1371 and 1520. The cathedral's 73.34-meter tower (seven levels with four corner turrets) was once the city's tallest building; the turrets signified Sibiu's right to impose death sentences (ius gladii). Houses two magnificent organs: the 1914-1915 Sauer Organ with 78 registers (largest in Transylvania) and the 1748 Hahn Organ. Features 67 funerary slabs including that of Baron Samuel von Brukenthal and Mihnea Vodă cel Rău (son of Vlad the Impaler). Climb 192 steps for panoramic city views. Located in Huet Square, the cathedral showcases beautiful frescoes, Gothic stonework, and remarkable epitaphs. According to legend, Sibiu attempted to build the tallest tower in Transylvania but was outwitted by Bistrița.

An impressive Romanian Orthodox cathedral distinguished by its round Byzantine architecture in red and yellow brick. Built with generous proportions, the exterior features distinctive domes and architectural elements typical of Orthodox ecclesiastical design. The interior showcases a high painted vault with beautiful dome frescoes and an ornate iconostasis covered with religious icons and carvings. Located on Mitropoliei Street, the cathedral has been renovated multiple times over the years, maintaining its role as an important spiritual center for Sibiu's Orthodox community. The cathedral serves as an architectural counterpoint to the Gothic Lutheran Cathedral, representing the city's religious diversity.

Dating from 1726, this Baroque church in the Great Square is one of Sibiu's few Catholic churches. After the Reformation swept through the city, most of the population converted to Lutheran denominations, leaving Catholics without a dedicated place of worship for many years. The church's elegant Baroque architecture and ornate interior provide a contrast to the Gothic Lutheran Cathedral. Its prominent location in Piața Mare makes it easily accessible, and its historical significance reflects the complex religious transformations that shaped Transylvanian society during the Reformation period.

Surrounded by Gothic buildings from the 1400s-1700s, this square is dominated by the Lutheran Cathedral and marks the site of Sibiu's earliest fortifications from the 1100s. The northern section features the Stairs Tower guarding the passage to Lower Town. Notable buildings include the red-painted Parochial House (nos. 1-2) built from the 13th century with a marvelous Gothic stone portal, and the Baroque Samuel von Brukenthal Gymnasium (no. 5) completed in 1776, the city's only totally German school. The square's intimate atmosphere and architectural harmony make it a favorite among photographers and history enthusiasts.

Sibiu's main pedestrian shopping street connecting Union Square with Great Square. This wide, convivial artery was historically the link between the marketplace and the now-defunct Cisnădie Gate at the city's southern entrance. Today it's lined with boutiques, souvenir shops, cafés, and bakeries including spots selling covrigi (traditional Romanian pretzels). The street showcases the famous 'houses with eyes' architecture and offers excellent shopping opportunities for local crafts, clothing, and decorations. Perfect for leisurely strolling, people-watching, and experiencing modern Sibiu's commercial vitality within a historic setting.

Nestled between the Cibin River and Upper Town, this area was historically home to merchants and craftsmen, contrasting with the Upper Town's wealthy families and clergy. The Lower Town features charming rustic two-story buildings with medieval authenticity, narrow cobbled lanes, and artisan workshops. Accessible through Huet Square gate or the Passage of Stairs, it offers a more intimate, residential atmosphere. The area includes the Golden Barrel (Butoiul de Aur), Romania's oldest restaurant, and provides unique perspectives of the Lutheran Cathedral looming above. Less touristed than Upper Town, it rewards exploration with authentic glimpses of old Sibiu life.

A lovely forested park area located 3km south of Sibiu's center, serving as the home of the ASTRA Open-Air Museum. The park encompasses the Dumbrava Forest with two artificial lakes connected by over 10km of walking paths. Beyond the museum, the park offers opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and outdoor recreation. The natural setting provides a peaceful escape from the city while remaining easily accessible by car, bus, or tram. Sub Arini Park section hosts the annual Focus Open-Air Music Festival in summer. The green space is popular with locals for weekend walks and family outings.

The Cibin River flows along the edge of the Lower Town, offering pleasant riverside walking paths and green spaces. This area provides a quieter alternative to the bustling squares, with opportunities to observe local life away from tourist crowds. The promenade connects various parts of the Lower Town and offers views of the Upper Town rising above. Popular with joggers, cyclists, and families, the riverside areas provide a refreshing natural element within the urban environment. Several bridges cross the river, each offering different perspectives of Sibiu's architecture.

Named the world's best driving road by Top Gear's Jeremy Clarkson, this spectacular highway crosses the mighty Făgăraș Mountains with breathtaking twists and turns. The road reaches its highest point at Bâlea Lake (2,042m elevation), offering stunning alpine scenery, fresh mountain air, and hiking opportunities. In winter, the famous Bâlea Ice Hotel operates here. The dramatic portion is open only July 1 - October 30; outside these dates, a cable car provides access to Bâlea Lake. The journey includes stops at Cârța Monastery (12th-century Cistercian foundation) and traditional villages. This thrilling day trip combines engineering marvel with natural beauty. Distance: ~90km from Sibiu.

The largest castle in Eastern Europe and best preserved in Europe, Corvin (Hunyadi) Castle is a stunning Gothic-Renaissance fortress with a fascinating history. Built for the powerful Hunyadi family who ruled Transylvania and fought the Ottoman Empire, the castle features impressive towers, a drawbridge, inner courtyards, and atmospheric dungeons. Its history is more compelling than Bran Castle, with authentic medieval stories and urban legends rooted in truth rather than vampire myths. The castle's dramatic architecture has made it a filming location and tourist favorite. Distance: ~120km from Sibiu. Entry: 45 RON. Often combined with Alba Iulia Citadel visit.

Romania's most visited castle, marketed as 'Dracula's Castle' due to its vague connection to Vlad the Impaler and its Gothic appearance matching Bram Stoker's fictional descriptions. The 14th-century fortress sits dramatically atop a 200-foot rock, featuring narrow winding stairways, secret passages, and atmospheric rooms filled with period furniture and armor. While the Dracula connection is largely commercial myth, the castle offers beautiful mountain views and genuine medieval architecture worth experiencing. Queen Marie of Romania resided here in the 1920s-30s, and her influence is evident in the interior design. Distance: ~140km from Sibiu. Entry: 55 RON. Very crowded in peak season.

Transylvania's second-largest city and one of Romania's most beautiful, Brașov features a stunning medieval center with Saxon heritage similar to Sibiu. Key attractions include the massive Gothic Black Church (largest between Vienna and Istanbul), Council Square, the Hollywood-style Brașov sign on Mount Tâmpa, and narrow Rope Street (Strada Sforii - one of Europe's narrowest). The city offers excellent restaurants, cafés, and shopping. Cable car to Mount Tâmpa provides panoramic views. Brașov makes an excellent combination with Bran Castle or Peleș Castle. Distance: ~145km from Sibiu. Perfect for comparing two of Transylvania's Saxon jewels.

The Transylvanian countryside around Sibiu is dotted with UNESCO-protected fortified churches built by Saxon settlers from the 12th-16th centuries. These unique structures served dual purposes as places of worship and defensive refuges against Ottoman and Tatar invasions. Notable examples include Biertan (45km from Sibiu, the most impressive with triple defensive walls and a powerful fortress-church), Viscri (popularized by Prince Charles who owns a house there), and Prejmer (strongest fortified church in southeastern Europe). Villages maintain traditional lifestyles, offering authentic rural Romanian experiences. Combines history, architecture, and cultural immersion. Best visited by car to see multiple sites.

One of Europe's best-preserved medieval towns and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sighișoara is the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler (the historical Dracula). The fortified citadel features the iconic Clock Tower, colorful burgher houses, cobbled streets, and nine remaining towers from the original fourteen. Walk the covered Scholars' Stairs (175 steps) to the hilltop Church on the Hill, explore Vlad Dracul's birthplace (now a restaurant), and wander the atmospheric medieval streets. The town hosts an annual Medieval Festival in July. Unlike commercialized Bran, Sighișoara offers authentic medieval atmosphere with genuine historical significance. Distance: ~90km from Sibiu. Entry to Clock Tower: 14 RON.

Romania's most impressive star-shaped Vauban fortress, Alba Iulia is where modern Romania was born in 1918 when Transylvania united with the Old Kingdom. The massive citadel features seven bastions, imposing gates with drawbridges, and 12km of defensive walls. Inside, discover the Orthodox Reunification Cathedral with stunning mosaics, the Catholic Cathedral (oldest Romanesque building in Romania), Roman ruins from Apulum, and the Royal Palace. Witness the impressive changing of the guard ceremony daily at noon. The fortress combines 2,000 years of history from Romans through Habsburgs to modern Romania. Distance: ~70km from Sibiu. Often combined with Corvin Castle visit.

Tip-based guided walking tours departing daily from Piața Mare, offering excellent introductions to Sibiu's history, legends, and architecture. Professional English-speaking guides share stories about Saxon settlers, medieval guilds, famous residents like Hermann Oberth (rocket pioneer), and the city's transformation into European Capital of Culture. Tours typically cover all major Old Town squares, landmarks, and hidden corners over 2-2.5 hours. While officially 'free,' tips of 10-20 RON per person are expected and appropriate. Perfect first activity to orient yourself and decide which attractions warrant deeper exploration. Some companies offer specialized tours (Communist history, food tours, pub crawls).

Learn to prepare authentic Romanian dishes like sarmale (cabbage rolls), mici (grilled meat rolls), or papanași (fried dough dessert) with local chefs or in home kitchens. These hands-on experiences provide insight into Transylvanian culinary traditions, ingredient selection at local markets, and cooking techniques passed through generations. Classes typically include market visits, preparation of 2-3 courses, and shared meals with recipe cards to take home. Some experiences take place in traditional Saxon houses or village settings outside Sibiu. Excellent for food enthusiasts wanting authentic cultural immersion beyond restaurants. Book through local tour operators or cooking schools.

The Făgăraș Mountains, Romania's highest range, lie just south of Sibiu, offering world-class hiking from easy forest trails to challenging alpine routes. Popular options include cable car access to Bâlea Lake (2,042m) with surrounding peaks, multi-day ridge traverses for experienced hikers, and day hikes to mountain refuges and glacial lakes. The area features dramatic scenery, chamois wildlife, and authentic mountain hospitality in traditional cabanas. Guided hiking tours available for all skill levels. Best season: June-September for high mountain trails, year-round for lower elevations. The Făgăraș range is less crowded than Western European Alps while offering comparable beauty.

Transylvania's emerging wine region produces quality wines from both international and indigenous Romanian grape varieties. Visit local wineries around Sibiu for tastings, cellar tours, and vineyard walks. The region specializes in white wines (Fetească Albă, Fetească Regală) and reds (Fetească Neagră, Pinot Noir). Some wineries offer food pairings with traditional Romanian cuisine. Tours can be arranged to multiple estates, combining wine education with countryside scenery. Several vineyards occupy historic estates or modern facilities with stunning views. Transport typically included in organized tours as responsible drinking requires non-driving alternatives.

Sibiu hosts Romania's most famous Christmas Market, transforming Piața Mare into a winter wonderland from late November through early January. Ranked among Europe's best Christmas markets, it features over 100 wooden chalets selling handicrafts, ornaments, traditional foods, and mulled wine (vin fiert). Entertainment includes carol concerts, folk performances, ice skating rink, and elaborate light displays. The market atmosphere combines Germanic Christmas traditions with Romanian hospitality. Cozy and magical, less commercial than Western European markets yet equally enchanting. Sample kürtőskalács (chimney cake), cozonac (sweet bread), and warming soups while browsing unique gifts.