One Day in Sibiu, Romania: Best Things to Do in Sibiu in 2025
Sibiu is one of those towns that looks like it belongs in a storybook. With its cobblestone streets, pastel houses, and medieval history, it’s impossible not to fall in love with its old-world charm. If you only have one day in Sibiu, don’t worry—you only really need 24 hours to explore.
Our journey started with a bit of a hiccup. After spending 3 days in Bucharest, we planned to rent a car and road trip through the famed Transfagarasan Highway (known as one of the most beautiful roads in the world) on our way to Sibiu.
Unfortunately, not only was the passage closed for early snow, but I realized I had forgotten to apply for an international driver’s license—which made renting a car impossible.
Forced to pivot, we ended up springing for a private driver, which turned out to be a comfortable 4-hour drive to Sibiu (and scenic with all the fall colors!).
Are you ready to learn more about this charming Transylvanian town? Let’s go to Sibiu, Romania!
How to Spend One Day in Sibiu
Sibiu is the perfect destination if you only have one day to explore. The town’s compact layout makes it easy to see all the highlights on foot, and its medieval charm draws you in immediately.
We spent a wonderful day wandering through cobblestone streets, admiring historical landmarks, climbing towers for the best views, shopping for souvenirs, and enjoying delicious traditional Romanian dishes.
Breakfast at Charlie’s Specialty Coffee
Our first stop was Charlie’s Specialty Coffee, where we settled into their cozy outdoor patio and geared up for a much-needed breakfast.
After days of indulging in hearty Romanian dishes, we decided to switch things up with a more international option—and honestly, it hit the spot. I had the most amazing bagel with serrano ham, cream cheese, camembert, and chili jam—and the coffee was just as good!
After filling our bellies, we headed out to begin our one day itinerary.
…Or Grab a Quick Covrigi
If you got a late start and don’t have time for a sit-down breakfast, no worries—just head over to Strada Nicolae Bălcescu and grab a quick covrigi on the go. This traditional Romanian pretzel is cheap, delicious, and perfect for fueling a morning of sightseeing without slowing you down.
Note: There’s also lots of great shopping in Sibiu—mostly concentrated along Strada Nicolae Bălcescu.
Get Watched by the Houses 👀
One of the quirkiest and most memorable things about Sibiu are the houses with eyes.
Yep—you heard me right.
These unique rooftops, with their small, half-moon windows, give the impression that the buildings are watching your every move. Originally, these “eyes” were designed to ventilate the attic spaces where merchants stored perishable goods like grain or meat.
Over time, the windows became a defining feature of the town’s architecture, adding to the charming and slightly mysterious vibe (they look a little suspicious, do they not?).
As you wander through the Old Town, keep an “eye” out for these watchful rooftops—you’ll find them scattered throughout the area, silently observing life as they’ve done for centuries. It’s hard not to feel like you’re being followed, but in the best possible way.
Take the Self-Guided Sibiu Walking Tour
Sibiu makes it easy to explore with plenty of walking tour options available through the town’s tourism app. You’ll spot QR codes posted all over Old Town that link directly to the app, which offers a variety of self-guided routes.
We opted for the 3-day route because it hits all the best sights in Old Town, including a few iconic landmarks you don’t want to miss. If you’re short on time, there’s also a “Historic Centre” route, but it skips some of the bigger ticket items.
If you prefer a more in-depth experience or just don’t want to plan your own route, you can also book a guided walking tour! It’s a great way to dive deeper into the region’s history and let someone else handle the itinerary.
The Bridge of Lies (Podul Minciunilor)
The first landmark we hit after breakfast at Charlie’s was the Bridge of Lies, a must-visit stop on the list of things to see in Sibiu.
This cast-iron bridge, built in 1859, has a reputation that’s as dramatic as its name. According to local legends, the bridge would creak or collapse if anyone standing on it told a lie. Another story claims that it was a meeting spot for merchants, and deals struck dishonestly were said to curse the liar.
Whether you believe the myths or not, the Bridge of Lies adds a bit of intrigue to the charming streets. Especially while the houses are still watching…
It’s also a fantastic photo op, with its intricate design and the vibrant buildings surrounding it!
Climb the Council Tower (Turnul Sfatului)
Next up on our walking tour was the Council Tower, or Turnul Sfatului, in Piata Mica—another of Sibiu’s top attractions.
Originally constructed in the 13th century, the tower connects Piața Mica with Piața Mare. Over the centuries, it has served various purposes, including as a guard tower and storage facility.
Climbing the 140 steps to the top was absolutely worth it for panoramic views of the Old Town and surrounding mountains (not to mention we pretty much had the top floor all to ourselves). The views reminded me a bit of the stunning sights we enjoyed during our trip to Brasov—although the mountains are a bit further away in Sibiu.
Keep in mind that the journey up isn’t for everyone—the staircase is narrow and steep, so it’s not the best choice if you have mobility issues or struggle with claustrophobia.
If you want to climb it, entrance tickets cost just 2 LEI (less than $0.50), making it a very affordable stop during your visit to Transylvania.
The Evangelical Cathedral (Catedrala Evanghelica)
Our next stop was the Evangelical Church in Piața Albert Huet, also known as the Cathedral of St. Mary. This is one of the most striking landmarks in the city center with its towering Gothic spire and intricate detailing.
Although you can also climb the church’s impressive watchtower, we were still a bit sweaty and out of breath from our climb up the Council Tower—so we decided to skip it and just tour the ground floor.
We took our time exploring the ground floor, admiring the stunning stained glass windows and learning more about the church’s history. Originally built in the 14th century, the church has served as a burial place for mayors, earls, and other high-ranking officials.
Entrance tickets to the cathedral with tower access cost 15 LEI ($3) and are worth every penny!
Stop for a Coffee (or a Cocktail) at Cafe Wien
After hitting three big spots on our Sibiu bucket list, we took a well-deserved cocktail break at Cafe Wien in Huet Square. This cozy spot is the perfect place to recharge with a coffee or a glass of wine while taking in the views from their outdoor patio.
Pro tip: Take your bathroom break here! The window in their restroom offers the cutest views into Lower Town—definitely an unexpected photo-worthy moment.
Samuel von Brukenthal National High School
After a little pick-me-up, it’s time to continue our walking tour!
Our next stop was the Samuel von Brukenthal National College, one of the oldest and most prestigious schools in Romania. Founded in the 18th century by Baron Samuel von Brukenthal, it continues to operate as a high school inside the medieval walls of Old Town.
The Stairs Tower (Turnul Scarilor)
Next up on our one day in Sibiu was the Stairs Tower, or Turnul Scărilor, a fascinating medieval structure that dates back to the 13th century. This charming passageway connects the Upper Town to the Lower Town and was part of the town’s original fortifications.
Right next to the Stairs Tower is the Journeyman’s House (or Casa Calfelor), another historic gem with ties to Transylvania’s past as a thriving hub for craftsmen and guilds. You’ll find it marked by the Stapul Calfelor—a wooden pillar covered in nails, buttons, and other metal objects with a stone dragon on top.
This house served as a residence for traveling journeymen who came to Sibiu to train and work in its many workshops. These two landmarks offer a glimpse into the town’s importance as a center of trade and skilled labor.
Break for Lunch at Crama Sibiul Vechi
For lunch, we couldn’t resist heading to Crama Sibiul Vechi, a spot that caught our attention with its cozy, cellar-like interior and glowing reviews. The menu was packed with traditional Romanian dishes, so we knew we were in for a treat!
We kicked off the meal with balmoș, a cheesy polenta dish that was warm, creamy, and dangerously addictive. From there, we dove into hearty bowls of ciorbă (traditional Romanian soup) and a flavorful mutton stew that hit the comfort food jackpot.
Of course, no Romanian meal would be complete without plenty of local wine, and we ended the feast with a shot of vișinată—a tart cherry liqueur that we first tried during our 3-day trip to Bucharest.
The Grand Square (Piata Mare)
Piața Mare, or the Grand Square, is the main square in Old Town and has been a central gathering place since the 15th century.
Surrounded by historic buildings, including the Brukenthal Palace, it’s a hub of activity and one of the most photogenic spots in the city. We found fantastic views of Piata Mare from the top of the Council Tower.
This is also where the town puts on its annual Christmas Market, complete with sarmale (cabbage rolls), plenty of gift shopping, and even the chance to meet Santa Claus!
Holy Trinity (“Sfânta Treime”) Roman Catholic Parish Church
Located in Piața Mare, the Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Parish Church is a Baroque masterpiece and one of Sibiu’s most prominent religious landmarks.
Built between 1726 and 1738, the church was commissioned by the Jesuits to serve the town’s growing Catholic community. Its construction marked an important period in the city’s history when the Catholic Church was reasserting its influence in Transylvania.
The church is free to enter, so there’s no reason not to pop in and have a look around!
National Brukenthal Museum (Muzeul National Brukenthal)
Next on our itinerary was the Brukenthal National Museum, housed in the stunning Brukenthal Palace right in Piața Mare.
Built in the late 18th century by Baron Samuel von Brukenthal, the museum is the oldest in Romania and one of the oldest in Europe. Inside, you’ll find an impressive collection of European art, as well as exhibits showcasing Romanian history and culture.
Although we didn’t have the time to tour the inside, if you’re into art, this would be a fantastic stop for you during your one day in Sibiu!
Upper Town & Lower Town
Sibiu’s layout is split into the Upper Town and Lower Town, so be sure to wander around both during your visit.
The Upper Town is where you’ll find most of the city’s landmarks, colorful houses, and bustling squares like Piața Mare (Grand Square) and Piața Mică (Small Square) as well as the town’s best shopping street—Strada Nicolae Bălcescu.
The Lower Town, on the other hand, feels quieter and more residential, with narrow streets, small courtyards, and remnants of the medieval walls that once protected the city. To get from one town to the other, you’ll cross through picturesque staircases and passages, like the Stairs Passage under the Stairs Tower (perfect for a photo op!).
The Carpenters’ Tower & The Potters’ Tower
The Carpenters’ Tower and the Potters’ Tower are two of Sibiu’s best-preserved medieval fortifications and made up part of the town’s outer defensive wall.
The towers are actually connected by a narrow passageway along the defensive wall, which we walked through after paying a small entrance fee (20 LEI). We entered through the Carpenters’ Tower (Turnul Dulgherilor) and exited through the Potters’ Tower (Turnul Olarilor).
Seeing the inside of the towers was very interesting—it felt like a step back in history. If you’re wondering what to do in Sibiu, Romania—make sure a visit to these towers makes it on the list!
Holy Trinity (“Sfânta Treime”) Metropolitan Cathedral
Our last stop on our self-guided walking tour was the Holy Trinity Metropolitan Cathedral, and it couldn’t have been a more perfect way to end the day.
The cathedral’s interior was absolutely magnificent, with breathtaking artwork and intricate details everywhere you looked. Best of all, it was free to enter, making it an easy addition to your Sibiu itinerary!
Dinner at La Cuptor Restaurant
For dinner, we headed to one of Sibiu’s most popular restaurants—La Cuptor.
Everything on the menu sounded amazing, but I couldn’t pass up trying the bone marrow with spicy peppers and homemade bread. It was incredibly rich but absolutely worth it.
We also loved the steak and the burrata-topped toast appetizer, both of which were beautifully prepared and packed with flavor. If you’re planning a trip to Sibiu, I highly recommend adding La Cuptor to your itinerary—especially if you want to try some scrumptious Romanian delicacies!
Have a Chill Night Out at Maya Lounge
After dinner, we decided to check out a hookah bar in the city center called Shisha Narghilea, but unfortunately, it looked closed when we arrived.
Luckily, we found Maya Lounge just a short 12-minute walk away, and it turned out to be the perfect vibe for a relaxed night out.
We ordered a round of cocktails and a tropical-flavored shisha and spent the evening chatting and unwinding. The cozy atmosphere and friendly staff made it an ideal spot to wrap up this Sibiu travel guide. If you’re looking for a chill place to hang out in the evening, Maya Lounge is a solid choice.
Other Things to Do in Sibiu
If you have more than one day in Sibiu, consider adding the following activities to your itinerary!
Note: you can also book a day trip to Brasov and Dracula’s Castle, but I personally would not recommend this. There’s way too much to do in and around Brasov than you could fit in a day trip. If anything, I’d recommend staying in Brasov and doing a day trip to Sibiu.
- Visit the Astra Museum: Muzeul Astra is one of Europe’s largest open air museums and it’s located just outside of town. The museum showcases traditional Romanian village life with over 300 structures like windmills, watermills, and wooden churches. There’s a similar museum in Bucharest.
- Drive the scenic Transfăgărășan Highway and visit Balea Lake: Often called one of the most beautiful roads in the world, the Transfăgărășan winds through the Făgăraș Mountains, offering breathtaking views. At the top, you’ll find Bâlea Lake, a serene glacial lake surrounded by rugged peaks. (Keep in mind the road is typically closed during the winter months due to snow.)
- Take a day trip to Sighisoara, Medias and Biertan: Explore the medieval town of Sighișoara, known as the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, along with the charming town of Mediaș and the UNESCO-listed fortified church of Biertan on this all-inclusive tour from Sibiu.
- Take a day trip to Corvins’ Castle and Alba Iulia: We really wanted to visit Corvins’ Castle, but sadly couldn’t find the time during our Romania trip! It’s one of the largest and most impressive Gothic-Renaissance castles in Europe. This top-rated tour will take you to Corvins’ and Alba Iulia—a beautifully restored citadel nearby.
Sibiu for Solo Travelers
As someone who has solo traveled to 14 countries, I’ve learned what makes a destination great for solo adventurers, especially women.
Sibiu checks all the boxes of a great solo travel destination with its welcoming atmosphere, compact size, and wealth of things to do. Whether you’re visiting with friends or riding solo, you’ll feel very comfortable exploring this charming Romanian town.
Is Sibiu Safe for Solo Female Travelers?
Before you plan to spend 24 hours in Sibiu as a solo traveler, your first question should be is Sibiu safe?
Absolutely! Romania, in general, is a safe destination for solo female travelers, and Sibiu is no exception.
Sibiu is the kind of destination where you don’t have to worry about setting up your camera and tripod to get awesome solo travel shots. You don’t need to shy away from exploring after dark, and most locals are friendly and welcoming.
However, although his charming medieval town practically oozes safe and comfortable vibes, like anywhere else, it’s important to follow basic safety practices. Be sure to keep an eye on your belongings, avoid empty and poorly lit areas late at night, and stay aware of your surroundings.
Stick to common sense, and you’ll find Sibiu to be a safe and enjoyable place to visit as a solo female traveler.
Other Solo Travel Tips
Sibiu is perfect for solo female travelers for a few key reasons. First, it’s super affordable, even if you’re not splitting costs with a travel buddy. Whether it’s food, accommodation, or transportation, you’ll find plenty of budget-friendly options.
Second, it’s incredibly easy to get around Sibiu. The city is very walkable—you can explore most of the town on foot without needing to rely on public transport or Ubers.
The only downside for solo travelers is that there aren’t many hostel options. If you’re looking to make friends while traveling, your only options are B13 Hostel and PanGeea Hostel—both of which are very affordable and have great reviews, but are not at all luxurious.
Where to stay in Sibiu
📍 Budget-Friendly: B13 Hostel
B13 Hostel is one of the best accommodations in Sibiu for solo travelers or travelers on a strict budget. This centrally located hostel is perfect for meeting other travelers and exploring the city without breaking the bank.
Guests will enjoy an on-site restaurant, 24-hour security, in-room lockers, and there’s even an on-site nightclub!
However, be aware that there is no A/C in the summer and some guests noted small cockroaches in the kitchen. (After living in Roatan, I have a zero-tolerance policy for roaches!)
If you’re looking for somewhere that’s a little less rustic, I would book one of the incredibly affordable apartment rentals (like this apartment near Piața Mare for only €30/night in the high season), and then spent time hanging out at the hostel bar or book activities through them to make new friends.
📍 Mid-Range: St. Andrew’s Apartments
For our trip to Sibiu, we stayed at St. Andrew’s Apartments, and it was honestly a dream come true.
The setup included two spacious rooms connected by a small kitchen and a roomy bathroom. One room had twin beds and the other had a king bed and a sectional couch—plenty of room for a group of four girlies.
The apartment was clean, beautifully decorated, and felt incredibly cozy. At just $185 USD for two nights (split between four people), it was almost too good to be true. If you’re traveling in a small group or just want a bit more space, this is an excellent option for your trip to Romania.
👉🏼 Book your stay at St. Andrew’s Apartments!
📍 Luxury: MAGISTAR Seven
We also considered staying at MAGISTAR Seven, a boutique hotel located right in the heart of Sibiu. The rooms are impeccably decorated and really make you feel like each room was designed with great care. The outdoor patio boasts incredible views—so it may be a property best enjoyed during patio-season.
For another luxury alternative, Rabbit Hole is an excellent option. This is another beautifully designed property, however, the rooms give off more “luxury modern” as opposed to “old world chic.” Rabbit Hole offers guests an on-site bar and restaurant as well as free parking and a superb breakfast.
Sibiu is such an affordable destination that even the city’s most luxurious properties don’t feel out of reach for the average traveler!
How to Get to Sibiu
Our original plan was to rent a car at Bucharest Airport and take the scenic route to Sibiu via the Transfăgărășan Highway—often called one of the most beautiful roads in the world.
Unfortunately, the road was closed due to early snow, and to top it off, I completely forgot to get an international driver’s license, which made renting a car impossible.
Instead, we booked a private driver to take us to Sibiu. We paid €400 total, and split four ways, it was pretty reasonable. If you’re in a similar situation (or just want to avoid driving altogether), I highly recommend contacting Bogdan, our private driver (text him on WhatsApp at +40 760 243 402). He was very friendly and welcoming and made the 4-hour drive fly by!
If you prefer public transportation, there are also trains available:
- From Bucharest: Direct trains run daily from Bucharest to Sibiu, taking anywhere from 5.5 to 8 hours. It’s an affordable and scenic way to travel, but it’s not exactly the most time efficient.
- From Cluj-Napoca: Trains from Cluj to Sibiu take anywhere from 4 to 7 hours, and it’s a great option if you’re exploring northern Romania before heading south.
For those looking to fly, the best airport to land in is Sibiu International Airport (SBZ), located just a 10-minute drive from the city center.
Alternatively, you can fly into Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP) or Cluj-Napoca International Airport (CLJ) and take a train, private transfer, or rent a car and drive.
Get a Romanian eSIM
The first thing I did after touching down at Bucharest Airport was to download a Romanian eSIM via Airalo.
Simply download the app, choose your package, and follow the simple instructions to install your eSIM. Boom—instant data. Choose from the packages below for Romania:
Code MADI10 for 10% off!
Protect Your Trip to Romania
Whenever I plan a trip, I always make sure to protect myself and my wallet with travel insurance. I’ve always booked travel insurance before trips, but I had to learn the hard way that not all travel insurance programs are created equal.
During the two months I lived in Thailand in 2022, I injured my foot on a weekend trip to Khao Sok National Park, which led to four months of limping around Southeast Asia and an eventual surgery in Canggu.
Since I was buying travel insurance month-to-month through AXA, none of my surgery was covered and I was out $3,500—even though I had active travel insurance at the time.
Since then, I started traveling with SafetyWing Travel Medical Insurance. It’s perfect for both short-term travelers and digital nomads since you can tailor it exactly to your dates and needs.
You can use it as a monthly subscription (what I usually do), or pay in full for a set date range. You can also take advantage of their useful add-ons like U.S. coverage (not for U.S. citizens, unfortunately), adventure sports, and electronics theft! Grab a quote below for your next trip 👇🏼
24 Hours in Sibiu FAQ:
Is Sibiu worth visiting?
Yes, absolutely! Sibiu is one of Romania’s most charming towns, filled with medieval architecture, cobblestone streets, and unique landmarks like the houses with eyes and the Bridge of Lies—all which are definitely worth a visit.
How long do you need in Sibiu?
You don’t need more than 2-3 full days in Sibiu. The Old Town is compact, and you can see the major highlights in a day or two, including its towers, cathedrals, and museums. If you’re short on time, one day is enough to soak in the best sights.
What is better, Brasov or Sibiu?
Both cities have their charms, but if you can only visit one, I’d recommend Brașov. While Sibiu is incredibly picturesque and historic, Brașov is a larger city and therefore has more to offer tourists. That being said, Sibiu is incredibly charming and well-worth a visit if you have the time.
Final Thoughts
Even after only 24 hours, Sibiu turned out to be one of our favorite stops during our 10-day trip to Romania.
From climbing towers for panoramic views to wandering its cobblestone streets and feasting on cheesy polenta and Romanian wine, our one day in Sibiu was jam-packed with charm and history.
We would have loved an extra day to explore the Transfăgărășan Highway, Bâlea Lake, Corvin Castle, and Sighișoara—so I can definitely see myself returning to Sibiu in the near future (maybe for next year’s Halloween party in Bran Castle!).
Sibiu is also a fantastic destination for solo female travelers. It’s safe, affordable, and incredibly walkable, making it easy and fun to explore on your own. Whether you’re visiting for a day or a weekend with friends or by yourself, the medieval beauty and laid-back vibe make it a must-visit stop in Transylvania.
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