Sibiu (Hermannstadt)

Sibiu (German: Hermannstadt, Hungarian: Nagyszeben) was the European Capital of Culture 2007 — and has since experienced one of the continent's most impressive old town renovations. The former Transylvanian Saxon metropolis is today the cultural center of Transylvania and — in the opinion of many — the most beautiful city in Romania.

Great Square (Piața Mare)

One of the most beautiful market squares in Europe: A vast square framed by pastel-colored Baroque and Renaissance facades, the Brukenthal Palace, and the Catholic Church. The roof windows of the houses look like eyes watching you — a hallmark of Sibiu, which has earned the city the nickname "City with Eyes."

Brukenthal Museum

Located in the Brukenthal Palace on the Great Square, it is the oldest museum institution in Romania (founded in 1817): an impressive collection of European paintings (Rubens, Van Dyck, Cranach), Romanian art, and decorative arts. Admission: 30 RON.

Bridge of Lies (Podul Minciunilor)

The first cast-iron bridge in Romania (1859) connects the Great Square with the Little Square. According to legend, the bridge collapses if someone tells a lie on it. It still stands — which either speaks for the honesty of the people of Sibiu or the quality of German iron.

ASTRA Open-Air Museum

The largest open-air museum in Romania (and one of the largest in Europe) is located 4 km south of the city in the Dumbrava Forest. Over 300 original buildings from all Romanian regions: farms, mills, churches, workshops, forges. At least half a day, with a picnic in the park a whole day. Admission: 25 RON.

Gastronomy & Culture

Sibiu boasts an excellent restaurant scene focusing on Romanian cuisine. In September, the legendary ASTRA Film Festival (documentary film) takes place, and in summer, the Sibiu International Theatre Festival — one of the largest theater festivals in Europe. The city lives and breathes culture.