Sibiu County Travel Guide

Discover the cultural and natural attractions, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, accommodations, and local culture and customs of Sibiu County, Transylvania.


Introduction to Sibiu County

Sibiu County is located in Transylvania, a region in central Romania. It is a destination that has it all - from spectacular natural landscapes to a rich cultural heritage, and a vibrant food and drink scene. This guide will help you discover the top attractions, activities, and must-try dishes of Sibiu County.

List of Places to Visit in Sibiu County

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Sibiu County is known for its well-preserved medieval towns and charming villages. The most famous town in the county is Sibiu, which was designated as the European Capital of Culture in 2007. Some of the must-visit cultural attractions in Sibiu County include:

  • Astra Museum of Traditional Folk Civilization: It is an open-air ethnographic museum that showcases the traditional way of life in Transylvania.
  • Brukenthal National Museum: It is one of the oldest and most important museums in Romania, with a collection of over 300,000 items including European paintings, sculptures and decorative arts.
  • Fortified Evangelical Church of Cisnadioara: It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 13th century and is an impressive example of Transylvanian village architecture.

Natural Attractions of Sibiu County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The natural landscapes of Sibiu County are breathtaking, with lush forests, wildflower meadows, and dramatic mountain peaks. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities for hiking, biking, and skiing. Some of the top natural attractions in Sibiu County include:

  • Transfagarasan Highway: Known as one of the most scenic roads in the world, this winding road takes you through the Fagaras Mountains and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
  • Paltinis Ski Resort: With over 100 km of ski slopes, Paltinis Ski Resort is one of the most popular winter destinations in the county.
  • Cindrel Mountains: These mountains are a hiker’s paradise, with numerous trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Sibiu County

Sibiu County has a well-developed network of hiking and biking trails, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the magnificent natural landscapes of the region. Some of the top trails include:

  • Paltinis - Cindrel: This trail takes you through the heart of the Cindrel Mountains, with panoramic views of the surrounding valleys.
  • Transfagarasan Highway: This iconic road is also popular with bikers, with its winding curves and stunning mountain landscapes.
  • Fagaras Mountains Traverse: This multi-day trek takes you across the highest peaks of the Fagaras Mountains, with breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and forests.

Best Things to Do in Sibiu County: Activities and Tours

Sibiu County offers a wide variety of activities and tours for visitors of all ages and interests. Some of the most popular activities include:

  • Wine Tasting Tour: Transylvania is known for its excellent wines, and a wine tasting tour is a great way to sample some of the best wines produced in the region.
  • Traditional Crafts Workshops: Sibiu County has a rich tradition of craftsmanship, and visitors can participate in workshops where they can learn how to make traditional crafts such as pottery, weaving, and woodworking.
  • Horse-drawn Carriage Ride: A horse-drawn carriage ride is a romantic way to explore the charming villages and countryside of Sibiu County.

Week-Long Itinerary for Sibiu County

Day 1: Visit the Astra Museum of Traditional Folk Civilization and explore the charming village of Cisnadioara.

Day 2: Take a scenic drive along the Transfagarasan Highway and stop at Balea Lake for a picnic lunch.

Day 3: Hike the Paltinis - Cindrel trail for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.

Day 4: Visit the historic town of Sibiu and take a walking tour of its charming streets and cafes.

Day 5: Participate in a traditional crafts workshop in one of the villages of Sibiu County.

Day 6: Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the picturesque countryside of the region.

Day 7: End your trip with a wine tasting tour in one of the local wineries.

Food and Drink Scene of Sibiu County

Must-Try Dishes

Sibiu County has a diverse culinary scene that reflects the region’s history and cultural influences. Some of the must-try dishes include:

  • Sarmale: A traditional Romanian dish made of minced meat and rice wrapped in cabbage leaves.
  • Mici: Grilled minced meat rolls served with mustard and bread.
  • Placinta cu branza: A savory cheese pie made with local ingredients.

Local Beverages

Sibiu County is known for its excellent wines, and visitors can try a wide variety of locally produced wines such as:

  • Feteasca Neagra: A red wine made from the Feteasca Neagra grape variety.
  • Tamaioasa Romaneasca: A sweet white wine made from the Tamaioasa Romaneasca grape variety.

Where to Stay in Sibiu County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Sibiu County has a wide range of accommodations, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some of the top options are:

  • Hotel Hilton Sibiu: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of Sibiu.
  • Pension Bunica Eugenia: A charming guesthouse located in the village of Cisnadioara.
  • Hostel La Padre: A budget-friendly hostel located in the historic town of Sibiu.

What to Buy in Sibiu County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Sibiu County is known for its traditional crafts and locally produced products. Some of the top souvenirs and products to bring home include:

  • Pottery: Sibiu County has a rich tradition of pottery-making, and visitors can buy locally produced ceramics as souvenirs.
  • Handwoven Rugs and Carpets: Woven from local wool and dyed with natural colours, these rugs and carpets are a unique souvenir that reflects the region’s heritage.
  • Cheese: Sibiu County is known for its excellent artisanal cheeses, and visitors can buy locally produced cheeses such as burduf, telemea, and cascaval.

Local Culture and Customs of Sibiu County

Sibiu County has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its traditional crafts, folklore, and festivals. Some of the most important local customs and traditions include:

  • Junii Brasovului: A festival that takes place every year on Whit Sunday, where groups of horsemen parades through the streets of Brasov, performing traditional dances and songs.
  • Transilvania International Film Festival: A popular film festival held every year in Cluj-Napoca, featuring screenings of Romanian and international films.

Best Time to Visit Sibiu County

The best time to visit Sibiu County is during the spring and summer months (April to September). The weather is pleasant during this time, and the natural landscapes are at their most beautiful. However, visitors can also enjoy winter sports during the winter months (December to March).

Do’s and Don’ts of Sibiu County

Do:

  • Learn some basic Romanian phrases before you visit.
  • Explore the natural landscapes of the region by hiking, biking, or skiing.
  • Participate in a traditional crafts workshop to learn more about the region’s cultural heritage.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing when visiting churches or other religious sites.
  • Be disrespectful of local customs and traditions.
  • Leave trash in the natural landscapes of the region.

Safety and Health

Safety in Sibiu County

Sibiu County is a safe destination for visitors, with low crime rates. However, visitors should take basic precautions, such as not leaving valuables unattended and using licensed taxis.

Health in Sibiu County

Sibiu County has a well-developed healthcare system. Visitors can access medical care at public hospitals or private clinics. It is recommended that visitors have travel insurance to cover any medical emergencies.

Getting to Sibiu County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Sibiu County

The closest airport to Sibiu County is Sibiu International Airport (SBZ), located 5 km outside of Sibiu. Other airports in the region include Cluj-Napoca International Airport (CLJ) and Bucharest Henri Coanda International Airport (OTP).

Bus Stations Near Sibiu County

There are regular bus services connecting Sibiu County to other destinations in Romania and Europe. The main bus station in Sibiu is Autogara Transmixt.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Sibiu County by train, with regular services connecting Sibiu to other cities in Romania and Europe.

How to Get Around in Sibiu County

The best way to get around Sibiu County is by car or by using public transportation. There are regular bus services connecting Sibiu to other destinations in the region. Visitors can also rent a car to explore the natural landscapes of the region.

Where to Go Next from Sibiu County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Sibiu County is located in a region with many other attractions and destinations. Some of the most popular nearby destinations include:

  • Brasov: A historic city located 125 km from Sibiu, known for its medieval architecture and stunning natural landscapes.
  • Cluj-Napoca: A vibrant university town located 200 km from Sibiu, known for its cultural attractions and nightlife.
  • Bran Castle: Known as “Dracula’s Castle”, this 14th-century fortress is located 190 km from Sibiu and is one of the top tourist destinations in Romania.

Conclusion

Sibiu County is a destination that offers something for everyone, from cultural attractions and natural landscapes to traditional crafts and artisanal food and drink. With this comprehensive guide, visitors can explore the best that Sibiu County has to offer and experience the rich culture and heritage of this fascinating region.



    Biertan
    Mediaș
    Ocna Sibiului