Where to stay in Sibiu [Best Places to Stay for 2024]

You know that joke where people say,  “we’re going to Roman-here”? Well, the opposite is true for this trip. This isn’t a joke. You definitely are heading to Romania. More specifically, the city you’ll be exploring is Sibiu, which is a city in Transylvania, central Romania.

Sibiu Romania Transilvania at Sunset with Central Square.

This is everything you need to know about where to stay in Sibiu if you’re a first time visitor to Romania, where to stay if you’re a tourist, where to stay if you’re going as a family, where to stay that’s near the train station, and where to stay near the Sibiu airport. 

Yep, you’re gonna be chilling with vampires soon. Sibius’ spooky cauldron is brimming with things to do that suit a variety of travelers’ fantasies. 

❤️ Best Area first timersSibiu Historic Center
💸 Best Luxury HotelRabbit Hole
👪 Best Hotel for For FamiliesSibiu Home 4 Green
🏨 Best Mid-Range HotelLumiere Roof Sibiu
🛏️ Best Budget HotelEric Central Studio
✨ Best HostelB13 Hostel

Below are 6 of the best neighbourhoods in Sibius to help you make the right decision when trying to work out best suburb to stay in Sibius for you. We have tried to make the guide as easy to follow as possible.

We have also included some things to do or places to visit as well as some eatery suggestions of either our favourite places or some funky places to eat at within the areas in Sibius so you can use this as a go to guide.

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The Historic Center – Where to stay in Sibiu for First Timers

If you’re a first time visitor to Sibiu, Romania, you’ll want to set up your base in the Historic Center. Here’s why…

Why stay in the Historic Center?

The historic center is, well, steeped in history. The Historic Center of Sibiu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to numerous historic buildings, churches, and museums. By staying in the area, you will be immersed in the history and culture of the city. You’ll have the past right on your doorstep. 

The Historical Center will also present you with an ambience that represents the quaint, gothic, character of the Romanian city. Let’s just say its architecture is much more than what you could ever expect.

As its name suggests, the Historical Center can be found slap bang in the middle of Sibiu, making it easy to visit attractions, restaurants, events and shops with many of the area’s top tourist destinations within walking distance.

Sibiu is known for its energy-driven cultural scene, with numerous festivals and events taking place throughout the year. By staying in the Historic Center, you will be close to many of these events and can easily attend them.

Things To Do in the Historic Center

Sibiu is famed for its history, which is not similar to other European cities. In fact, it’s rather unique (no spoilers though, you’ll have to visit yourself to find out).

Start by exploring the Old Town. Take a stroll through the ancient streets of the Old Town to admire the stunning architecture.

Places you can see and shouldn’t miss are the Big Square (Piata Mare), the Small Square (Piata Mica), and the Bridge of Lies (Podul Minciunilor). Not sharing something? Maybe it’s time to get it off your chest 😉

Also within the Historical Center is the Brukenthal National Museum. This museum is home to an impressive collection of European art, with works by famous artists such as Van Eyck, Rubens, and Titian. 

You’ll also want to see one of the most famous landmarks within the Historical Center, which is the Lutheran Cathedral.

The Lutheran Cathedral of Saint Mary is one of the most holy landmarks in Sibiu. You’ll also be able to climb the church tower to view the city below.

Top 4 favorites accommodation options for Sibiu Historic Center

Best places to stay in Sibiu Historic Center

Budget accommodation in Sibiu Historic Center

Mid range accommodation in Sibiu Historic Center

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SIBIU, ROMANIA - A view to the Cetatii street in the historical center of Sibiu.

The Upper Town  – Where to stay in Sibiu for Tourists

Why stay in the Upper Town?

With a little bit of history and a whole lotta views, the Upper Town may be for you.

Situated at an elevated level above the city center, the Upper Town has marvelous views. The town looks like it’s been painted by an artist with small intricate dots. 

From this viewpoint, you’ll also get a taste of the tranquility of the countryside. The Upper Town offers seclusion from the noisy city center. You’ll also be able to see the Lower Town, the Fagaras Mountains, and the Cindrel Mountains.

Additionally, you’ll be close enough to take in the fortified walls, towers, and gates, as well as the beautiful churches and houses.

The Upper Town keeps you grounded with nature while also offering a birds-eye view of the city below. The perfect combo.

Things to do in the Upper Town

Get your dancing shoes on because the Upper Town is known for its cultural events, including traditional dance parties.

The Upper Town is a hub for cultural events and festivals, such as the Sibiu Jazz Festival and the Sibiu International Theatre Festival. By staying in this area, you will be close to many of these events and can easily attend them.

Given that the Upper Town is surrounded by nature, it’s worth immersing yourself in a bit of it. The Upper Town is surrounded by a landscape with plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, and other outdoor activities. You can also explore the nearby forests, parks, and nature reserves. 

For a grand and interesting experience, explore the fortress walls. The Upper Town is surrounded by fortified walls, towers, and gates, which you can explore on foot. Take a walk along the walls and enjoy panoramic views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

Next up is a bit of history to help you understand the region you’re staying in. Visit the Evangelical Church. The Evangelical Church of Sibiu is one of the most important landmarks in the Upper Town. Admire the beautiful architecture and learn about the church’s history.

Back to the nature trails, we’re going for a hike. The Upper Town is situated on a hill, surrounded by forests and hills. You can go for a hike in the nearby Cindrel Mountains or explore the nearby parks and nature reserves.

If you feel like slowing it down a bit, then you could always wander through the Upper Town’s art galleries.

The Upper Town is home to several art galleries, showcasing the works of local and international artists. Don’t miss the Gallery of Contemporary Art, which features modern art exhibitions. 

Top 5 favorites accommodation options for Upper Town

Best places to stay in Upper Town

Cheapest Backpacking Hostels in Upper Town

Budget accommodation in Upper Town

Mid range accommodation in Upper Town

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Sibiu Romania -Old Town Square in the historical center of Sibiu was built in the 14th century Romania

The Lower Town – Where to stay in Sibiu for Family

Doing a complete 180, we’ll go to the opposite side of Sibiu to the Lower town.

The lower town caters to those who prefer a vibrant atmosphere with lots happening around them. It’s for those who prefer to be out and about and is a great choice for busy families.

The Lower Town has a wonderful community filled with activities for everyone, no matter the age.

Why Stay in the Lower Town?

The Lower Town is close to loads of attractions and entertainment that is centrally located. Getting around with kids isn’t easy, so being in the Lower Town will make your holiday go so much smoother. 

The Lower Town pumps with energy all the way into the night which is great if you’ve got older kids who want to experience European nightlife. 

For the city gals and guys at heart, the Lower Town will suit you perfectly, and it has an extensive range of local and international stores.

Things To Do in the Lower Town

Learn about the town’s Dutch and Flemish influence at the Brukenthal National Museum. The Brukenthal National Museum is an important museum in Romania, with a vast collection of European art, ceramics, and weapons. Don’t miss the Old Gallery, which features works by Dutch, Flemish, and German artists.

Also within this part of town is Liar’s bridge. The Liar’s Bridge is a historic bridge over the Cibin River, with a legend that says that anyone who tells a lie while crossing it will fall into the river.

Next, you’ll explore the Museum of Pharmacy. The Museum of Pharmacy is housed in a beautiful 16th-century building and offers a glimpse into the history of medicine and pharmacy. See the old pharmacy tools, books, and jars, and learn about the evolution of medicine over the centuries.

Enjoy some sumptuous local cuisine. The Lower Town is home to many restaurants and cafes, offering traditional Romanian cuisine and international dishes. Sample some of the local specialties, such as sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls) and mici (grilled meat rolls).

Top 5 favorites accommodation options for Lower Town

Best places to stay in Lower Town

Cheapest Backpacking Hostels in Lower Town

Budget accommodation in Lower Town

Mid range accommodation in Lower Town

Family Friendly accommodation in Lower Town

Affordable Luxury accommodation in Lower Town

Cityscape with beautiful old buildings in historical center of Sibiu town Transylvania, Romania, Europe

Sibiu Train Station – Where to stay in Sibiu near the Train Station

If you’re traveling Europe on the euro rail or by another form of train transport, it’s worth stopping at Sibiu. 

To make it more convenient to move on to your next destination quickly, think about potentially staying near the Sibiu train station.

Why Stay Near the Sibiu Train Station?

You won’t need to worry about transportation as there’s a bunch to do near the station that’s within walking distance.

Being close to the train station makes it easy to travel to other parts of Romania or even to other countries in Europe. You can also easily catch a train to Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Brasov, or other nearby cities.

Up for a saving? Accommodation near the train station tends to be more affordable than those in the city center.

If you’re traveling on a budget, staying near the train station can be a good option. Accommodation near the train station is known for its modern, cosmopolitan amenities.

Things to do Near the Train Station

All of these recommendations are within walking distance from the train station, which allows you to explore a great deal of Sibiu in a small amount of time.

The ASTRA National Museum Complex is a sprawling outdoor museum showcasing the traditional way of life and culture of the Romanian people. The museum is about a 20-minute walk from the train station and is definitely worth a visit.

For an interesting experience, head to Sibiu Zoo which is a small, but charming, zoo located just a few minutes’ walk from the train station. It’s a great place to take kids or to spend a few hours admiring the animals.

To stretch your legs before boarding your next train, take a walk through Sub Arini Park.

 Sub Arini Park is a large park located just south of the train station. It’s a beautiful park with walking trails, a small lake, and plenty of green space to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Learn a bit more about your mode of travel by visiting the The Steam Locomotives Museum.

The Steam Locomotives Museum is located just across the street from the train station and is home to several historic locomotives and train cars. It’s a great place to learn about the history of transportation in Romania.

To end off your historical walk of the streets and the city near the train station, check out The Nicolae Balcescu Memorial House, which is a small museum located about 10-minutes (by foot) from the train station.

The museum is dedicated to the life and work of Nicolae Balcescu, a Romanian historian, writer, and revolutionary who played an important role in the 1848 revolution in Romania.

Top 4 favorites accommodation options for Sibiu train station

Best places to stay in Sibiu train station

Budget accommodation in Sibiu train station

Mid range accommodation in Sibiu train station

Family Friendly accommodation in Sibiu train station

Affordable Luxury accommodation in Sibiu train station

SIBIU, ROMANIA - Sibiu railway station,  located near Sibiu city center

Sibiu Center – Where to stay in Sibiu on a Budget 

Why Stay in the Sibiu Centre?

Any city has its expensive parts and budget friendly parts. Staying in the Sibiu center is the budget option for travelers who want to experience Romania’s Sibiu region while also being able to experience its most coveted features. 

Things to do in the Sibiu Center 

The Brukenthal Palace is a Baroque-style palace located in the city center. It was built in the 18th century and is now home to the Brukenthal National Museum, which contains an impressive collection of art and artifacts.

The Stairs Tower is one of the towers that used to be a part of the medieval city walls. It’s located near the Piata Mica (Small Square) and offers great views of the city from the top.

The Radu Stanca National Theatre is located in the Piata Mare (Big Square) and is one of the most important cultural institutions in Sibiu. It hosts a variety of theatrical performances, concerts, and other events throughout the year.

Piața Huet is a historical square located near the Evangelical Cathedral. It’s a cool place to explore and has some interesting architecture, including the impressive Huet Palace.

The Holy Trinity Cathedral is a beautiful Orthodox church located in the city center. It was built in the early 20th century and has some impressive frescoes and icons inside.

Piata Mare is the largest square in Sibiu, and on certain days, it hosts a food market where you can find a wide range of fresh, local produce, including fruits, vegetables, meats, and cheeses.

If you happen to be in Sibiu during the Street Food Festival (usually held in September), you’re in for a treat! The festival brings together food trucks and vendors from all over Romania and Europe, offering a wide range of delicious street food options.

Top 4 favorites accommodation options for Sibiu center

Best places to stay in Sibiu center

Budget accommodation in Sibiu center

Mid range accommodation in Sibiu center

Family Friendly accommodation in Sibiu center

Affordable Luxury accommodation in Sibiu center

Cityscape with beautiful old buildings in historical center of Sibiu town Transylvania, Romania, Europe

Sibiu International Airport (where to stay in Sibiu near the airport)

Why Stay Near the Sibiu International Airport?

Staying near the Sibiu International Airport will obviously ensure that you remain conveniently close to the airport, whilst also giving you a chance to get a taste of Romania.

Even if you’re visiting with business in mind, leave your business brain on the plane and step into the traveler’s world for a moment or two and explore the nearby attractions.

Believe it or not, staying near the airport can also be quieter than the city center which can be crowded and noisy.

Things To Do Near the International Airport 

Within a couple minutes walk or drive from the airport, Sibiu’s history and marvelous landscape offers a welcome breather from the busyness of the airport atmosphere.

To get the blood moving and adrenaline spiking, hit the slopes of the Paltinis Ski Resort. Paltinis Ski Resort is located about 15 minutes by car from the airport and offers skiing and snowboarding during the winter months. It’s a great place to spend a day on the slopes and enjoy the beautiful scenery.

For a nature fix, The Zoological Gardens of Sibiu is about 5 minutes away (by car) from the airport and is home to a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, bears, and monkeys.

To breathe in the fresh air, stroll through Dumbrava Sibiului Natural Park. Dumbrava Sibiului Natural Park is a scenic, quiet park located about 15 minutes by car from the airport. It’s a great place to go for a walk, have a picnic, or enjoy the scenery.

If speed is more your thing, the Transfagarasan Highway is for you. The Transfagarasan Highway is one of the most picturesque roads in Romania, and it’s located about 30 minutes by car from the airport. It’s a great place to go for a drive and take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

If you have more time to spare and want to really do a deep dive into Romania’s best kept secret, take a drive to Sibiu’s city center.

While the city center is a bit further away (around 20-25 minutes by car), it’s definitely doable, and there are plenty of things to see and do in the heart of Sibiu, such as visiting the historic squares, museums, and churches, and trying the local cuisine in the many cafes and restaurants.

Top 4 favorites accommodation options for Sibiu International Airport

Best places to stay near Sibiu International Airport

Budget accommodation near Sibiu International Airport

Mid range accommodation near Sibiu International Airport

Family Friendly accommodation near Sibiu International Airport

Affordable Luxury accommodation near Sibiu International Airport

Sibiu, Romania - Food court area in Promenada Mall, one of the biggest shopping centers in Sibiu

Slow Sibiu. That’s the mantra for this trip as Sibiu is best explored at a leisurely pace, taking in all the different sights and smells.

Combined with slow walks, city life, natural landscape and classic architecture, Sibiu is a city that encourages its visitors to Ro-main longer than planned.

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Author

  • Samantha King

    Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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