Discover Sibiu Romania: The Hidden Gem of Transylvania
As a full-time traveler and Digital Nomad Coach from the Netherlands I love to share my experience and help other nomads on their travels. Hi everyone, I’m Latoya and I’ve spent the last 4.5 years building the travel lifestyle of a digital nomad, and now helping you find your next Digital Nomad destination while currently exploring Romania. This is why Sibiu is a great destination for Digital Nomads.
Discover Sibiu: The Hidden Gem of Transylvania
Nestled in the heart of Transylvania, Sibiu is a destination straight out of a fairy tale. Known for its rich medieval history, this charming city offers endless activities for travelers seeking culture and adventure. Explore its cobblestone streets, vibrant squares, and historical landmarks. Just outside the city, the incredible Fagaras Mountains are waiting for you, offering amazing hiking trails and outdoor adventures.
Travel to Sibiu, Romania
The easiest way to get to Sibiu is by bus, train, or car from major Romanian cities like Brasov, Bucharest, or Cluj-Napoca. Direct buses operate regularly, offering convenient and affordable travel options.
For international travelers, there’s even better news: if you’re coming from Munich, Vienna, or London, you can take advantage of direct flights to Sibiu.
The best time to visit Sibiu
Spring
Each season in Sibiu offers its unique charm, but if you’re looking for a truly incredible experience, spring is the perfect time to visit. As the flowers bloom, the vibrant colors of nature come alive, creating a stunning contrast against the snow-capped peaks of the Fagaras Mountains.
Summer
Summer is when Sibiu truly comes alive, offering many festivals, fairs, and local markets that fill the streets with a true vibe. Picture yourself sipping a refreshing Aperol Spritz as the sun sets, enjoying the long, warm summer evenings in one of Romania’s most charming cities.
Autumn
Autumn in Sibiu is a dream come true for nature lovers. As the leaves change to vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold, the forests and Fagaras Mountains offer an entirely new experience.
Winter
Sibiu transforms into a true winter wonderland from November to January with its famous Christmas Market, known for its cozy, festive atmosphere. The city lights up with twinkling decorations, creating a magical vibe as you wander through the many stalls. Enjoy a warm mulled wine while soaking in the fairytale scenery.
Things to do in Sibiu
Sibiu, a gem in the heart of Transylvania, invites you to experience its rich history and vibrant culture at every turn. From the charming Upper Town to the picturesque Lower Town, this city is full of surprises waiting to be discovered.
Whether you love historical places, immersive yourself in new cultures, or just love getting lost in beautiful places, Sibiu offers endless opportunities to explore. You can spend hours wandering through its narrow alleys and still stumble upon something new. From cozy cafés to breathtaking viewpoints.
Looking for the best things to do in Sibiu? Let me share my personal favorites:
- Cycle Through Sibiu & Parcul Sub Arini
Hop on a bicycle and explore Sibiu on two wheels! Rent a bike through the PBSC app for just €0.20 an hour and enjoy one of the cheapest ways to discover the city. Follow your way to Parcul Sub Arini, a beautiful park just outside the city center where you can fully immerse yourself in nature. - Dive Into Romania’s Culture at the ASTRA Museum
No trip to Sibiu is complete without a visit to the ASTRA Museum, one of the largest open-air museums in Europe. Wander through authentic Romanian folklore houses and discover the traditional way of life in this immersive cultural experience. It’s a step back in time that history lovers won’t want to miss. - Explore the Narrow Streets of Sibiu & Spot the Eyes
Get lost in Sibiu’s enchanting narrow streets, where every corner holds a surprise. Don’t forget to look up and spot the famous Eyes of Sibiu! Cross the Bridge of Lies, the famous bridge, and capture beautiful moments with your camera. - Climb the Council Tower for Breathtaking Views
For a panoramic view of Sibiu, climb the 45-meter-high Council Tower. The breathtaking scenery from the top is well worth the climb! Add the Cathedral of Saint Mary to your list if you even wanna go higher—just be ready for a guided tour to reach the top.
Top Sights & Experiences Around Sibiu:
If you’re looking to explore beyond Sibiu, the surrounding region offers breathtaking sights and experiences that will leave you speechless. Here are my top recommendations for unforgettable day trips and weekend adventures:
- Drive the Legendary Transfagarasan Road
Rent a car and spend the day driving along the world-famous Transfagarasan Road, considered one of the most spectacular roads in the world. Enjoy its winding turns, and dramatic mountain views, and keep an eye out for the local brown bears that sometimes roam the streets. Remember to observe from a distance and avoid feeding them for your safety and theirs. - Hike to the Summit of Moldoveanu Peak
For seasoned hikers, a trip to Moldoveanu Peak, the highest mountain in Romania, is a must. It’s a challenging climb, but the reward is so worth it. - Discover the Magic of Corvin Castle & Raba Rossi
For a fairytale-like day trip, visit Corvin Castle which is considered one of the 7 Wonders of Romania, and the nearby Raba Rossi a incredible rock formation on your way back to Sibiu. - Weekend Getaway to Brasov
Looking for a weekend escape? Head to Brasov, just two hours away from Sibiu. This picturesque city near the Carpathian Mountains offers everything from scenic mountain hikes to lovely city streets. Don’t miss the chance to find Strada Sforii, the narrowest street in Romania!
Digital Nomad Insights: Why Romania Should Be Your Next Remote Work Destination
Romania is quickly becoming a hotspot for digital nomads in Europe, and for good reason. From its reliable high-speed internet to its affordable living costs, it offers everything a remote worker could want.
Reliable – High-Speed Internet
Did you know that Romania provides some of the fastest internet speeds in Europe? With widely coverage, digital nomads can stay connected no matter where they are. Even better, affordable data packages make staying online easier than ever. For just €6.50, you can top up your Orange SIM with 5GB of data plus a 50GB bonus, valid for 28 days.
Best Places to Work in Romania
A productive workspace is key to getting things done, and Romania doesn’t disappoint. Here are two of my favorite spots to work from:
- Hug the Plate: This charming brunch spot is popular among digital nomads and offers a cozy atmosphere where you’ll feel inspired to work.
- Cafe Nod: If you prefer a quieter space away from the crowds, this cozy café is the perfect place to get focused while sipping a great cup of coffee.
Low Cost of Living
Despite being part of the EU, Romania remains one of the most affordable places to live for digital nomads. Compared to popular European hotspots like Spain or Croatia, you’ll find that Romania offers great value. Expect to pay around €400-500 per month for rent, depending on your preferences.
Where to Find the Best Authentic Romanian Food in Sibiu
Sibiu offers a delicious variety of authentic dishes influenced by Turkish and Balkan cuisine. Whether you’re craving traditional Romanian flavors or something with a modern twist, here are my top restaurant recommendations:
- La Dobrun
For a true taste of Romania, visit La Dobrun, a charming restaurant known for its authentic food and welcoming atmosphere. On weekends, enjoy live music while dining in a beautifully authentic setting. It’s a popular spot, so be sure to make a reservation! - Hanul din Tulghes
Tucked away in the woods near the ASTRA Museum, Hanul din Tulghes serves incredible Romanian dishes that will leave you wanting more. Surrounded by nature, it’s the perfect place to enjoy traditional food. - Kombinat Gastro-Brewery
Looking for something unique? Kombinat Gastro-Brewery offers interesting Romanian infusion dishes, combining traditional flavors with a modern twist.
Must-Try Romanian Dishes in Sibiu
If you’re visiting Romania, be sure to give these dishes a try:
- Mici (Mititei): A must-try for meat lovers, these barbecue grilled sausages are so tasty and no gathering is complete without them sizzling on the grill!
- Sarmale: These cabbage rolls are filled with minced meat and always served with smantana which makes it such a refreshing combination.
For vegans, I highly recommend the Salata de Vinete—a roasted eggplant salad that you typically eat with bread. It’s the best I’ve ever had!
Finish your meal with Papanasi, a traditional Romanian dessert that’s like a doughnut made of soft cheese, topped with sour cream and jam.
Know Before You Go: Essential Tips for Traveling to Romania
Before you head off to explore the beauty of Romania, here are a few key things to know that will make your trip smoother and more enjoyable:
- Currency in Romania
Romania uses the Leu (plural: Lei). As of now, €1 is equal to 5 Lei. Withdrawing cash is easy from ATMs like ING, or you can use a money transfer app to avoid extra transaction fees. - Great Public Transport
Getting around Sibiu is super easy thanks to its well-organized bus system. In just 10-15 minutes, you can travel from any neighborhood to the city center. You can pay by card, and the fare is only 3 Leu — which is valid for 1 hour or you can choose a day card which is only 5 Leu. - Nightlife in Sibiu
If you’re looking for wild nightlife, Sibiu might not be your top pick. However, the city more than makes up for it with cozy pubs, nice restaurants, and outdoor terraces. On top of this, Sibiu is known for its year-round festivals and events. - English is Widely Spoken
Making connections in Romania is easy, as English is widely spoken throughout the country. Whether you’re networking with locals or building relationships with fellow travelers. - Digital Nomad Visa
For EU citizens, visiting Romania is easy with just a valid passport. But there’s exciting news for non-EU digital nomads! Romania has introduced a Digital Nomad Visa, allowing you to stay up to 12 months, with the option to renew for another 12 months if you meet the criteria.
Where to Next?
I hope Sibiu inspires you for your next Digital Nomad Destination, feel free to ask any questions you may have. Please feel free to follow me on my social media or LinkedIn I am happy to answer any questions for you and help you on your journey.
Written by: Latoya de Jong
