If you want to spend an extended weekend in Transylvania and can’t decide on the places to visit, we propose an itinerary that will ensure you have a memorable stay.
While a complete experience cannot be compressed into 3-4 days, we hope our suggestions will convince you of the beauty and uniqueness of these places. The itinerary we’ve prepared includes both renowned tourist attractions and some that lean more towards the authentic, archaic style.
București
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You can start your visit in Brașov, a city surrounded by mountains where authenticity and innovation intertwine. To enjoy the cultural and historical treasures of Brașov, you’ll need to explore it on foot.
Council Square (Piața Sfatului), the historic center of the city, is the perfect place to begin your tourist experience. The atmosphere is rich with historical and romantic charm, ideal for a stroll along the cobbled streets. The square dates back to the 15th century, and even though the present subtly asserts itself, the passage of time has helped reinforce the authenticity of the place. This was once the setting for various fairs where local merchants gathered. Today, Council Square hosts some of the most significant events in Brașov, such as concerts and markets.
After getting familiar with the square, the next must-see landmark is the Black Church (Biserica Neagră). This building impresses with its architecture and history, which have brought it fame beyond borders. It is a Lutheran church, and its name comes from a disastrous event: in 1689, a fire caused the church’s walls to blacken. Here, you’ll also find one of the narrowest streets in Europe, known as “Strada Sforii.” The Council House (Casa Sfatului) and the Merchant’s House (Casa Negustorilor) are two other notable buildings worth considering in your exploration of this historic center.
The visit continues with the Brașov Citadel, located on Straja Hill. The view from here will surely tempt you to stop and admire the city. Tâmpa Peak, situated at over 960 meters above sea level, is the perfect spot for a complete view of Brașov. There are options for both athletes and those who prefer a more leisurely approach: hikes on two marked trails or the cable car.
After such a walk, it’s time for a hearty meal. Sergiana Restaurant offers diverse and traditional dishes. Bread baked in the oven, jumeri (pork cracklings), and red onion are considered by the locals to be the ideal appetizer to welcome tourists.
The next location we recommend is about an hour and a half from Brașov—Cincșor village. The setting is unique, and the guesthouses here are the main reasons we support this. Several old houses, the village school, and the parochial house have been creatively and authentically renovated. These surround the fortified church in the village. Thus, your first day of the itinerary ends in a storybook space, traditional and intimate.
On the second day, you find yourself in Cincșor, where you can feel time standing still, allowing you to take in the fresh air and tranquility. Explore the beauties of nature, discover the architectural wonders found in the monasteries and fortified churches, and let the simplicity of the local people fill your soul with joy. The villagers are skilled cooks and will pamper you with traditional dishes, oven-baked bread, and Saxon pies.
Sighișoara is the next city on our list of tourist recommendations. Strolling through the narrow streets of the medieval citadel is a unique way to relax and contemplate the events that the walls surrounding this storybook place have witnessed. If you’re eager to delve deeper into the history of the area, you can opt for a guided tour with the town drummer, where you’ll learn many interesting facts.
The Clock Tower—home to the history museum—is a true source of culture. The top level of the tower offers a complete view of the city. Another landmark is the Covered Staircase, which connects the citadel to the Evangelical Church on the Hill. To get there, you’ll need to climb about 175 steps. Other notable sites include the Venetian House, Vlad Dracul’s House, the County Palace, Shoemakers’ Tower, and the Tailors’ Tower, all of which add to the medieval charm of the area.
If you wish to stay overnight, there are accommodation options within the citadel. What could be more beautiful than waking up in the morning to a view straight out of a fairytale with kings and queens?
The last destination of the day is the village of Apold, located in Mureș County, just 10 km from Sighișoara. This village has a tumultuous history and is one of the Saxon villages in Transylvania where the old way of life still endures. Here, the sounds of nature induce an irrevocable sense of calm. The locals are open and eager to share the traditions and legends of the area. The craftsmen here are skilled artisans, dedicated to passing down ancient customs.
To make your stay in Apold special, we recommend Apold 71 Guesthouse. This is a homestead built in 1857, recently renovated to ensure tourists can enjoy their time here. The owners have made every effort to preserve the traditional style while subtly adjusting the amenities to meet current standards. After the previous days of intensively visiting the recommended sights, it’s time for a well-deserved breather. We believe this is the ideal space for relaxation and escape from the stresses of everyday life.
After a peaceful night in Apold, it’s time for a new day filled with history.
The next destination we recommend is Sibiu. The first must-see here is a bridge that has generated countless myths over time. It’s known as the “Bridge of Lies,” and you must not tell any lies while on it, for legend has it that it will collapse! This bridge is one of Sibiu’s main attractions. The Council Tower, situated between two important squares, is another symbol of the area. From the top floor, you can admire the entire city. Great Square and Small Square are two other key elements you must visit, where you can admire buildings dating back to the 14th century.
If you are a hopeless romantic, we also suggest visiting the Goldsmiths’ Square, a favored spot for dreamers. If one of your passions includes the history of locomotives, you can explore the Steam Locomotive Museum, which features over 40 exhibits.
The Brukenthal Museum houses some of the most important European art galleries in the country, along with an extensive library. Sibiu also has a zoo located in the Dumbrava Forest.
The ASTRA National Museum Complex is another site you shouldn’t miss, as it is rich in traditions. In the evening, we recommend retreating to Mărginimea Sibiului, where you can choose from a variety of accommodations designed in traditional style.
