How to get to Sibiu

Sibiu is a true gem of Transylvania and one of the most atmospheric cities in Romania, consistently enchanting travellers with its medieval charm. A walk through its historic centre feels like a journey through time: cobbled squares, majestic towers, and the famous "houses with eyes"—whose roofs seem to watch over passersby—create a unique architectural ensemble.

This former European Capital of Culture attracts visitors not only with its rich Saxon heritage but also with its vibrant creative energy. Here, the ancient legends of the Bridge of Lies coexist with cosy cafes and galleries, making the city an ideal destination for those seeking inspiration and wishing to immerse themselves in the region's authentic culture.

Travelling by air is the most comfortable way to reach Sibiu, allowing you to save time and immediately immerse yourself in the region's atmosphere. The city is served by its own International Airport (SBZ), which receives regular flights from many European capitals and is considered a key aviation hub in Romania. The terminal is located very close to the city limits, so the journey to the historic centre and hotels will be short and hassle-free.

If direct tickets are not available for your desired dates, a reasonable alternative is to fly to neighbouring cities followed by a transfer. Convenient connection options are offered by airports in Târgu Mureș and the bustling Cluj-Napoca, located approximately two hours away. You can also plan a route through Brașov, combining your trip with a tour of the picturesque Carpathian landscapes.

Rail travel is an excellent option for those who wish to enjoy views of the country on their way to Sibiu. The city has its own railway station, located within walking distance of the historic centre. Direct trains and connecting services arrive here from the Romanian capital, Bucharest, as well as from other major transport hubs.

Travelling by train is often chosen for the sake of scenic landscapes. The route passing through the Southern Carpathians, for example from the direction of Brașov, offers passengers the chance to see stunning mountain panoramas and cosy Transylvanian villages. Although the trip may take more time than by car, the comfort and atmospheric views from the window fully compensate for the travel time.

Bus services in Romania are well-developed, connecting regions with convenient and regular trips. One of the fastest options is the route from Târgu Mureș: buses cover the distance of 110 kilometres in approximately two hours. Equally picturesque is the road from Brașov, which takes about two and a half hours and allows you to enjoy views of the Carpathian foothills along the 145-kilometre journey.

For travellers heading from the northwest, it is convenient to take bus services from Cluj-Napoca. The trip, covering 170 kilometres, usually lasts between three to four hours, passing through colourful Transylvanian landscapes. Most intercity buses arrive at bus stations located near the railway station, from where it is easy to reach the historic centre of Sibiu.

Travelling by car to Sibiu offers freedom of movement and the opportunity to enjoy the scenic roads of Transylvania. The quality of the road surface on the region's main highways is good, and the routes pass through colourful villages and natural landscapes, turning the drive into an adventure of its own.

One of the fastest routes leads from the city of Târgu Mureș: the distance of 110 kilometres can be comfortably covered in less than two hours. The road from the direction of Brașov (145 km) will take about two and a half hours. This route is considered one of the most beautiful, as it winds through the foothills, revealing impressive views of the Făgăraș mountain range.

The trip from Cluj-Napoca, spanning 175 kilometres, usually lasts about three hours. When planning a visit by car, please note that the historic core of Sibiu is primarily a pedestrian zone. It is recommended to choose a hotel with parking in advance or use public parking lots located around the perimeter of the old town.

Preparation for your trip to Sibiu will help avoid minor inconveniences and allow you to fully focus on the beauty of the ancient architecture. We have compiled a list of useful recommendations that will make your stay in this cultural centre of Romania as comfortable as possible.

1. Clothing and Footwear. The historic city centre is paved with old cobblestones, and the city itself is divided into Upper and Lower towns, connected by stairs. Be sure to bring comfortable flat shoes; heels will be inappropriate and potentially unsafe here. The climate is moderate, but the weather can be changeable, so even in summer, it is worth having a light jacket or jumper for evening walks.
2. Transport. It is best to move around the centre on foot—the main attractions are located compactly. For trips to outlying areas (for example, the "Astra" Museum), it is convenient to use city buses operated by Tursib (tickets are bought at machines or via an app) or affordable taxis and ride-sharing services such as Bolt or Uber.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Romanian Leu (RON). Although bank cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and supermarkets, cash will be needed for paying for souvenirs at street stalls, gratuities, or visiting small museums. It is more profitable to exchange currency at city exchange offices (casa de schimb), avoiding the airport.
4. Health and Safety. The city is considered one of the safest in the country, but standard precautions are always advisable. Pharmacies (Farmacie) are found frequently, and many work late. Tap water is considered safe to drink, however, tourists are recommended to buy bottled water to avoid any reaction to the change in water composition.
5. Communication. In the tourism sector, staff speak English well. Due to the Saxon historical heritage, many locals, especially the older generation, understand and speak German. Learning a couple of phrases in Romanian, for example, "Mulțumesc" (thank you), will surely earn you the sympathy of the townspeople.
6. Local Etiquette. Romanians are hospitable and polite. When entering a shop or cafe, it is customary to greet people ("Salut" or "Buna ziua"). In restaurants, it is customary to leave a tip of about 10% of the bill if you enjoyed the service; often this can be included in the bill when paying by card, but it is better to have small cash.
7. What to Avoid. Do not try to see the whole city in a couple of hours—the rhythm of life here is measured. Avoid exchanging money with individuals on the street, even if the rate seems very favourable—this may be a scam. Also, be attentive at pedestrian crossings: although drivers are usually polite, traffic can be intense.
8. Additional Tip. When planning your cultural programme, note that many museums, including the famous Brukenthal National Museum, are closed on Mondays (and sometimes on Tuesdays during the winter season). Always check the current schedule on official websites before your visit.

By following these simple tips, you will be able to feel confident and enjoy the atmosphere of Transylvanian hospitality. The city is open to travellers and ready to provide a wealth of vivid impressions to those ready to explore its cosy streets.