Sibiu Transylvania, Romania Travel Guide
Sibiu sits approximately 20 kilometers from the Făgăraș Mountains, Romania's highest mountains. These majestic peaks form a dramatic backdrop, influencing Sibiu'the climate of providing opportunities for outdoor activities and scenic drives.
Population (2021 census): 134,308 inhabitants. Area: Approximately 121 km² (46.7 sq mi). The city covers a considerable area, with the compact and walkable historic center.
Languages: Romanian is the official language. German holds historical significance due to the Saxon heritage, and some older residents may speak it. Hungarian also by a minority. English understood and spoken in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and by younger generations, communication is straightforward for travelers from other countries.
Tourism is a major role, driving much of the city's economic activity and playing a part in its welcoming atmosphere. Other important sectors include automotive components, textiles, food processing, and research and development.
Sibiu, historically Hermannstadt in German, boasts a deep and complex history. German colonists, Transylvanian Saxons, founded the city in the 12th century. They established a fortified settlement that quickly grew into one of the most important and prosperous metropolitan areas in Transylvania.
Largest and wealthiest of seven walled citadels.
Major commercial center on trading paths between Europe and Ottoman Empire.
Construction protected citizens and trade interests.
Designation brought renewed investment and international profile.
Diverse festivals, exhibitions, and performances throughout the year.
Electricity: 230V, 50Hz, Type F (Schuko) sockets. Travelers from countries with different voltage or plug types (like North America or the UK) Require a suitable power adapter and potentially a Voltage converter for sensitive electronics.
Major Airport: Sibiu International Airport (SBZ). This airport offers connections to several European cities. Direct access to Sibiu is available for many international travelers.
Sibiu's central location in Romania, within the Carpathian arc, made it a historically strategic point for trade and defense. This geographical placement supports exploring other parts of Transylvania, including other fortified towns and natural attractions.
Calling Code: +40 for Romania, followed by 269 or 369 for Sibiu. Currency: Romanian Leu (RON). One Leu divides into 100 Bani. The Regional time: Eastern European Time (EET), UTC+2. During daylight saving, it shifts to Eastern European Summer Time (EEST), UTC+3.
Sibiu received the designation european-style Capital of Culture in 2007, alongside Luxembourg. This brought renewed investment in cultural infrastructure and a greater international profile.
The city's commitment to cultural programming continues today, offering a diverse array of festivals, exhibitions, and performances throughout the year.
Explore Sibiu's galleries featuring local and international art.
Attend concerts or theatre shows in historic venues.
Experience cultural festivals all year.
Sibiu's rich history extends beyond the medieval era period, encompassing times of Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian rule, each leaving architectural and cultural marks.
