Weekend in Sibiu: Discover the Charming City of a Thousand Eyes
April 11, 2025
Sibiu, one of Romania's most beautiful cities, is a true gem of Transylvania with its rich history, charming architecture and unique atmosphere. Known as the 'city of a thousand eyes' because of its distinctive skylights that resemble eyes, Sibiu offers an unforgettable experience for tourists of all ages. A weekend in this fascinating place is the perfect opportunity to delve into the culture, history and modern life of this Transylvanian gem. Get ready to explore medieval streets, admire Baroque palaces and enjoy local cuisine in an environment that will transport you back in time. Sibiu, located in central Romania, is easily accessible by both car and public transportation. The nearest international airport is on the outskirts of the city, and the train and bus stations provide convenient connections to other Romanian cities. Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a scenic spot for a relaxing weekend, Sibiu has something to offer for everyone. Come discover why this charming city was voted the European Capital of Culture in 2007 and why it continues to delight thousands of tourists every year.
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The heart of Sibiu - the The Great Square and its surroundings
Start your adventure in Sibiu with a stroll through the Grand Square (Piața Mare), which is the heart and soul of the city. This impressive square, one of the largest in Transylvania, is surrounded by beautiful, colorful townhouses that seem to watch passersby with their 'eyes'. The square bustles with life from early in the morning until late at night, offering countless opportunities to relax, dine or simply admire the local architecture.
The Grand Market is located in the center of Sibiu, at Piața Mare, Sibiu 550182, and is easily accessible on foot from most points in the city center. If you are arriving by car, it is advisable to use the parking lots located on the outskirts of the old town, as the market itself is a pedestrian zone. The square is open 24 hours a day, and admission is free. In the summer you can find numerous gardens of cafes and restaurants, where you can enjoy local specialties.
Not far from the Grand Market, just a few steps away, is the famous Liars' Bridge (Podul Minciunilor). This picturesque iron bridge, built in 1859, is the first of its kind in Romania. According to local legend, the bridge has the ability to detect lies - it is said to collapse when someone tells a lie on it. The bridge connects the Small Market (Piața Mică) with Hubet Square, creating a picturesque corner perfect for a romantic stroll or a souvenir photo. The Bridge of Liars is located at Piața Mică, Sibiu 550182 and is accessible 24 hours a day without charge.
Right next to the Bridge of Liars rises the majestic Town Hall Tower (Turnul Sfatului), which offers breathtaking views of the entire city. A remnant of medieval fortifications, the tower was rebuilt in Baroque style in the 18th century. Today it serves as a vantage point and museum of the city's history. The City Hall Tower is located at Piața Mică 1, Sibiu 550182 and is open to the public daily from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm (last entry at 7:30 pm). The entrance ticket costs 2 RON (about 2 PLN), making it one of the most affordable attractions in the city. Note that climbing the tower requires climbing a lot of stairs, which can be a challenge for people with mobility problems or young children.
All of these attractions are located in close proximity to each other, making them an ideal start to a weekend adventure in Sibiu. Walking along the cobblestone streets in between, you can feel the true spirit of this historic city and marvel at its unique atmosphere.
Culture and history at your fingertips
When exploring Sibiu, don't miss the Brukenthal Museum (Muzeul Brukenthal), one of the most important art museums in Romania. Located at Piața Mare 4-5, 550163 Sibiu, the museum is housed in a Baroque palace, which is a work of art in itself. It was founded in 1817 and is the oldest museum in Romania. The collection includes works by European masters, including Titian, Jan van Eyck and Pieter Bruegel the Elder.
The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm (last admission at 5:00 pm). An entrance ticket costs about RON 30 (about PLN 30) for adults, with various discounts for children, students and senior citizens. It's worth planning at least 2-3 hours for a thorough tour of the exhibition. For families with children, the museum offers special educational programs and workshops to help young explorers understand and appreciate art.
Not far from the museum, in the heart of the old town, rises the majestic Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Biserica Evanghelică), a fine example of Gothic sacred architecture. It is located at Piata Albert Huet FN, 550182 Sibiu. This Lutheran church, also known as the Evangelical Cathedral, impresses not only with its monumental structure, but also with its rich interior and impressive organ.
The church is open to the public from Monday to Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and on Sundays from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. An entrance ticket costs about RON 10 (PLN 10). You should also consider climbing the church tower, which offers a beautiful view of the entire city. There is an additional fee to climb the tower, but the panorama of Sibiu from the top is worth it.
For families with children who need a change from sightseeing, the Sibiu Zoological Garden (Grădina Zoologică Sibiu) is ideal. It is located a little further from the center, at Calea Dumbrăvii 142, 550399 Sibiu. It is the largest zoo in Romania, hosting more than 1,000 animals representing 200 species on an area of 15 hectares.
The zoo is open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. during the summer season (April-October) and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the winter season. An entrance ticket costs about RON 20 (PLN 20) for adults and RON 10 (PLN 10) for children. The zoo offers not only animal observation, but also educational programs and workshops for children, making it a great place for a family outing.
After a busy day of sightseeing, relax at the Sub Arini Park (Parcul Sub Arini), the largest park in Sibiu. Located on Bulevardul Victoriei, the park offers the shade of spreading trees, walking and biking paths and children's playgrounds. It's the perfect place for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. The park is open 24 hours a day and admission is free.
All these places are accessible on foot or by public transportation from the center of Sibiu. It's worth remembering that some attractions can be more crowded during the summer season, so it's a good idea to start your tour early in the morning. Whichever route you choose, Sibiu offers an unforgettable cultural and historical experience for the whole family.
Exploring the flavors and traditions of Sibiu
Sibiu is not only about monuments and museums, but also a place where you can immerse yourself in local culture and traditions. One of the best ways to experience the spirit of the city is to explore its culinary scene. The Grand Market Square and surrounding streets are full of restaurants and cafes serving traditional Romanian dishes. Try 'sarmale' (stuffed cabbage in grape leaves), 'mici' (spicy meat rolls) or the famous Romanian dessert 'cozonac'.
For those who want to combine shopping with discovering the local culture, the traditional markets and fairs held regularly in the city center are ideal. We especially recommend a visit to the Piața Cibin market, held daily on Piața Cibin Street. This is a place where you can not only buy fresh local products, but also feel the authentic atmosphere of Romanian daily life.
If you're planning a visit to Sibiu during the holiday season, be sure to visit the Christmas Market, which takes place in the Grand Square from late November to early January. It's a magical event full of lights, music and the smells of traditional foods.
For contemporary art lovers, plan a visit to the Gallery of Contemporary Art (Galeria de Artă Contemporană a Muzeului Național Brukenthal), located at Piața Mare 5. The gallery displays works by contemporary Romanian and international artists. It is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and an entrance ticket costs about RON 15 (PLN 15).
Don't forget to visit the local craft stores, where you can buy traditional Romanian products. We especially recommend stores selling handmade ceramics and embroidered textiles, which make excellent souvenirs of your trip.
For those who want to learn about the city's history in an unconventional way, we recommend an evening guided walk 'Sibiu by Night'. The tour takes you through the city's most important monuments, which take on a magical character in the night lighting. Tours usually start at 8:00 pm at the Great Square and last about 2 hours.
If you're planning a longer stay, consider a day trip to nearby Saxon villages such as Biertan or Viscri. These picturesque UNESCO-listed villages offer a fascinating glimpse into traditional Transylvanian life.
Remember that Sibiu is a city best explored by walking. Many streets in the center are closed to automobile traffic, making them ideal for walking. Comfortable shoes are a must-have when visiting!
Finally, it is worth mentioning the cultural festivals held in Sibiu. The Sibiu International Theater Festival, held every June, is one of the largest events of its kind in Europe. If you are planning a visit during this period, be sure to check the festival program and book tickets in advance.
Sibiu is a city that has a lot to offer all year round. Whether you're interested in history, art, culinary or just want to relax in a charming environment, you'll find something for you here. Be sure to reserve enough time to quietly explore the charms of this fascinating Transylvanian city.
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