Holiday in Sibiu (Hermannstadt)

What makes Sibiu (Hermannstadt) special as a destination?

Sibiu, in German Hermannstadt, is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe and the cultural jewel of Transylvania. The former Saxon settlement at the foot of the Southern Carpathians combines German colonial heritage with Romanian vibrancy and has developed into one of Eastern Europe's most exciting travel destinations since its designation as a European Capital of Culture in 2007. The landmark of Sibiu is the "Eyes of Sibiu" — the distinctive roof-shaped dormer windows that adorn almost every historic building in the old town, giving the impression that the houses are watching the passersby. Together with the pastel-colored Baroque facades, the cobbled squares, and the silhouettes of church towers, they create an atmosphere that could not be more fairy-tale-like. The Great Square (Piața Mare) and the Small Square (Piața Mică), connected by narrow alleys and the famous Bridge of Lies, form the historic center. The Bridge of Lies (Podul Minciunilor) — Romania's first iron bridge — is said to collapse if someone lies on it. The legend makes it the city's most popular Instagram spot. The Brukenthal Museum, one of the oldest museums in Europe (1817), houses a significant European art collection in a Baroque palace. The Evangelical City Church with its massive tower offers the best panoramic view, and the ASTRA Museum in the open-air museum on the outskirts showcases over 300 traditional buildings from all over Romania. Sibiu is also the gateway to the Transfăgărășan, one of the most spectacular mountain roads in Europe, winding through 90 kilometers of serpentine roads in the Carpathians and culminating at the glacier lake Bâlea at 2,034 meters. The drive is an adrenaline rush for both drivers and motorcyclists alike. The culinary scene combines Saxon heritage with Romanian tradition. Restaurants in medieval vaulted cellars serve Ciorbă (sour soup), Mici (grilled minced meat rolls), and Saxon Hanklich (cake), and the local wines from the Tarnave Valley surprise with their quality.