Sibiu, a city with a fascinating history and remarkable cultural heritage, is the perfect destination for an unforgettable weekend. Located in the heart of Transylvania, this charming place perfectly combines medieval traditions with a modern vibe, making it the ideal place for tourists who want to explore history, relax in nature, taste the delights of local cuisine, and participate in special cultural events.
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With spectacular mountain scenery, cobbled streets, and buildings bearing the mark of centuries, Sibiu promises to be a refuge for anyone who wants to escape from everyday life and reconnect with the authentic traditions and values of Transylvania.

We will show you ten essential activities that you should not miss in Sibiu, and by the end, you will understand why a weekend here can be truly memorable. Whether you want to explore the city’s rich history or relax in nature, Sibiu awaits you with unique experiences. And because a successful visit starts with the right accommodation, our hotel offers you the comfort and elegance that perfectly complement your Sibiu getaway. Get ready to plan your ideal weekend!

1. Lose yourself in the charm of Sibiu’s old town center

old town sibiu

Image source: mesageruldesibiu.ro

One of the most beautiful ways to discover the charm of a city is to lose yourself in its cobbled streets, and Sibiu is no exception. The historic center of the city is a veritable open-air museum, where every corner has a story to tell. Begin your adventure in Piața Mare, where you will be greeted by impressive historic buildings and the vibrant atmosphere of this iconic place. Here, history and modernity blend harmoniously at every turn.

Don’t miss the Council Tower, a symbol of the city, from where you can admire a spectacular view of the whole of Sibiu and its surroundings. A few steps away is the Evangelical Cathedral, an imposing place of worship, but also an unforgettable place for lovers of Gothic architecture. In addition to these major attractions, the Bridge of Lies, known for its legend about young lovers, adds a special charm to your walk.

If you want to be close to these architectural and cultural gems, Sennse Boutique Hotel is the ideal choice. Located just a few minutes’ walk from the Grand Square and the Brukenthal Museum, the location combines modern comfort with the authentic charm of the city, providing you with the perfect starting point for your explorations of Sibiu.

As you stroll around, you will truly feel the vibe of the city, which brings the medieval past to life, but at the same time makes you feel part of its vibrant present. So, a walk through the historic center of Sibiu is undoubtedly an unmissable activity during a weekend in this fascinating city.

2. Explore the secrets of the Brukenthal Museum—the jewel of the city

Brukenthal Museum

Image source: turnulsfatului.ro

The Brukenthal Palace, located in Sibiu’s Grand Square, is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture and one of Romania’s most important cultural destinations. Built between 1778 and 1788 by Baron Samuel von Brukenthal, governor of Transylvania, the palace was designed both as an official residence and as a place to display the baron’s impressive art collections.

Currently, the Brukenthal Palace houses the European Art Gallery, one of the oldest and most valuable art collections in Romania, with approximately 1,200 works from the Flemish, Dutch, German, Austrian, Italian, Spanish, and French schools, dating from the 15th to 18th centuries. Inside the palace is the Brukenthal Library, which contains approximately 300,000 volumes, including manuscripts, rare books, and specialized periodicals.

The Brukenthal Palace is not only a place of learning and reflection, but also a lively space that regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, cultural events, and educational activities. Visitors can explore the elegant halls, learn about art history, and participate in various cultural events that highlight both local traditions and contemporary trends.

Visiting hours:

  • Monday – Tuesday: Closed
  • Wednesday – Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
    • Last entry: 5:15 p.m.

Visiting fees:

  • Adults: 50 lei
  • Retirees: 25
  • Schoolchildren, students, pensioners with Euro 26 cards, people with moderate or mild disabilities: 12.50 lei

To fully enjoy your visit to the Brukenthal Palace, we recommend that you allow approximately 1.5 hours to explore the European Art Gallery and the other permanent collections. Also, check the schedule of temporary exhibitions and special events to plan your visit according to your interests.

3. Immerse yourself in traditions and nature at the ASTRA Museum

astra museum

Image source: muzeulastra.ro

The ASTRA Museum, located in the heart of the Dumbrava Sibiului forest, just a few kilometers from the city center, is a cultural destination not to be missed. It is the largest open-air museum in Romania and one of the largest in Europe, covering an area of 96 hectares and housing over 400 monuments of traditional folk architecture. The museum reconstructs the life of the pre-industrial Romanian village and offers visitors an authentic journey through the country’s various ethnographic regions.

Before planning your visit, we recommend checking the museum’s official website to find out if there are any special events taking place during the period you wish to visit, so that you can enjoy an even richer experience.

What you will discover at the ASTRA Museum

The museum is organized into six thematic sections that reflect traditional crafts and customs from various parts of Romania:

  • Food production and animal husbandry: Traditional households, barns, and food processing facilities.
  • Production of raw materials: Woodworking, blacksmithing, and pottery workshops.
  • Means of transport: Carriages, carts, and traditional vehicles.
  • Making household items: Looms, dowry chests, and ceramic pots.
  • Public buildings: Schools, wooden churches, and inns.
  • Monumental sculpture exhibition: Large-scale craft works.

Among the most remarkable exhibits are the wooden church in Bezded (Sălaj), dating from 1672, considered the oldest monument in the museum, and the shepherd’s house in Mărginimea Sibiului, dating from 1854, known for its distinctive blue color.

The ASTRA Museum is the perfect place to understand Romania’s cultural diversity, offering an authentic experience for both young and old alike, and is an ideal destination for the whole family.

Visiting hours:

During the season (May–September):

  • The open-air museum in Dumbrava Sibiului: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
  • Access points:
    • Multicultural Museum Pavilion (Gate 1): 8:00 a.m. – 7:45 p.m. (last ticket)
    • The Tavern in Bătrâni (Gate 2): 10:00 a.m. – 5:45 p.m. (last ticket)
    • Ethno Techno Park (Zoo Gate): 10:00 a.m. – 5:45 p.m. (last ticket)

In the off-season (October–April):

  • All exhibitions: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Visitor fees:

  • Adults: 35 lei
  • Pupils/students: 9 lei
  • Pensioners: 15 lei
  • Annual subscription:
    • Adults: 150 lei
    • Pupils/students: 40 lei
    • Family: 300 lei

To purchase tickets and passes, visitors can use the ticket offices, payment machines located at the access points, or opt for online payment via the museum’s official platform.

The ASTRA Museum is the ideal place to learn about and explore Romanian traditions in a spectacular natural setting. Make sure you enjoy all the beauty this unique museum has to offer and allow yourself enough time to explore all its sections.

4. A day full of magic at Sibiu Zoo

Sibiu Zoo

Image source: zoosibiu.ro

The Sibiu Zoo, located in Dumbrava Forest, is a captivating destination for nature and animal lovers. Founded in 1929, it is Romania’s first zoo and is home to an impressive diversity of species. Among the 300 animals living here are tigers, white wolves, brown bears, zebras, and llamas, as well as many other exotic species, making it the perfect place for an unforgettable day with your family.

The Zoo offers visitors a unique experience, with shady paths and green areas that create an ideal setting for observing animals in their natural habitat. In addition, the Animal Farm is a special place for children, who can interact with domestic animals such as goats, ducks, and ponies.

The visit is made even more enjoyable by the lake in the garden, where visitors can rent boats for a relaxing ride. The garden is the ideal place to learn about global biodiversity and spend quality time surrounded by nature.

Visiting hours:

  • During the summer season (May–September), between 9:30 a.m. and 7:30 p.m.
  • During the off-season (October–April), shorter hours, between 9:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Visitor fees:

  • Adults: 10 lei
  • Students/pensioners: 5 lei
  • Children under 3 years old: free of charge
  • Individual subscription: 30 lei / 10 entries / year
  • Boat rental: 50 lei / 30 minutes

The Sibiu Zoo is thus a tourist attraction that offers both a lesson in biodiversity and moments of relaxation and fun in the midst of nature. If you want an educational experience, but also an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, this place is ideal for a family visit.

5. Cool off and relax at the Salt Lakes in Ocna Sibiului

the salt lakes of Sibiu

Image source: ocna-sibiu.ro

Located just 17 km from Sibiu, the Ocna Sibiului resort, also known as the “Transylvanian Seaside,” is a special destination worth visiting if you are in the area. Although this attraction requires more time to be fully explored, being ideal for a day trip, it offers a unique experience that combines relaxation with therapeutic benefits. The salt lakes, created as a result of salt mining, have become tourist attractions due to the healing properties of their water.

In Ocna Sibiului, you will find 14 anthropogenic salt lakes, the most famous being Lake Avram Iancu, Lake Cloșca, and Lake Crișan. The salt water and medicinal mud are known for their beneficial effects on rheumatic and respiratory conditions, making it an ideal place to relax and improve your health. The lakes also offer visitors the opportunity to enjoy mud and salt water baths, renowned for their therapeutic effects.

The resort also includes leisure facilities such as saltwater pools, children’s playgrounds, and sports fields. For a complete experience, visitors can also enjoy picnic areas or rent boats to cruise the lake, adding a touch of relaxation to their day.

For those seeking comfortable accommodation, the resort offers a variety of lodging options and restaurants serving traditional cuisine, ideal for a break from exploring the area.

Visiting hours:

  • Period 01.05 – 06.06: 07:00 – 22:00
  • Period 07.06 – 31.08: 07:00 – 20:00
  • Period 01.09 – 28.09: 07:00 – 20:00

Rates:

  • Adults: 35 lei (during the season) / 20 lei (after 6 p.m.)
  • Children over 10 years old: 20 lei
  • Children under 10 years old: Free
  • Parking: 10 lei/day

Subscriptions 07.06-25.08:

  • Adults:
    • 7 days: 210 lei
    • 10 days: 290 lei
    • 14 days: 390 lei
  • Children:
    • 7 days: 115 lei
    • 10 days: 210 lei
    • 14 days: 280 lei
  • Retirees:
    • 7 days: 150 lei
    • 10 days: 210 lei
    • 14 days: 280 lei
  • Persons with disabilities: FREE

Ocna Sibiului is a perfect destination for a day trip, offering both relaxation and health benefits.

6. Play and adventure at Arka Park, the ideal place for families

arka park

Image source: arkapark.ro

For those who want to combine relaxation with physical activities during their vacation, Sibiu offers a variety of options. From outdoor adventure parks, ideal for a day out with family or friends, to indoor climbing gyms, suitable for cooler days or those who prefer a controlled environment. These activities not only promote an active lifestyle, but also offer opportunities for fun and socializing.

Arka Park Păltiniș – Complete adventure in nature

Arka Park Păltiniș is located approximately 24 km from Sibiu, offering an authentic natural setting for adventure activities. The park offers 12 tree climbing trails, with a total of 172 play elements, designed to test the balance, courage, and physical coordination of participants.

There are a variety of difficulty levels, so every visitor can find challenges suited to their abilities. In addition, there are five zip lines of varying lengths and heights for dynamic outdoor experiences. The children’s area includes trampolines, archery, mini-soccer, and other recreational activities, providing safe fun for families.

Schedule and rates:

The park is open from April to November, and the 2025 season began on April 5.

Individual rates for a 3-hour session:

  • Adults (>18 years old): 85 lei
  • Adulți (>18 ani): 85 lei
  • Children (<14 years old): 75 lei
  • Mini-kids (ages 3–7, access to the play area without equipment): 35 lei

For groups of more than 10 people and for families (at least three members, parents + children) there are special discounts.

Arka Park Păltiniș organizes themed activities, adventure races, school camps, and outdoor parties for children. The park is designed as an educational and recreational space where confidence, emotional balance, and teamwork are developed through play and adventure.

Arka Park Indoor Climbing Sibiu – Urban climbing in a controlled environment

Located on Frigoriferului Street no. 6, the Indoor Climbing Sibiu hall covers approximately 800 m² and is divided into three dedicated areas: routes and zip lines, a 130 m² climbing wall with a height of up to 9 m, and a 24 m² bouldering area. The indoor adventure routes include 55 play elements and a zip line—all designed to be accessible to both beginners and experienced climbers.

The self-belay systems and protective equipment comply with international standards, and the atmosphere is friendly and safe. The hall also offers complementary activities such as bouldering, archery, mini-football, and an Escape Room, transforming the location into a complex recreational space.

Schedule and rates:

The hall is open all year round, making it ideal for colder or rainy days.

Rates for a 2-hour session:

  • Children (under 14): 55 lei
  • Pupils/Students: 60 lei
  • Adults: 65 lei

Special arrangements can be made for groups, themed events, or team building.

In addition to general access, the gym organizes introductory courses, school programs, birthday parties with themed scenarios, and team-building events. It is the ideal place for both active recreation and regular training, bringing together the local community of climbing enthusiasts.

7. Travel back in time with the Mocănița train in the Hârtibaci Valley

Hartibaci Valley narrow-gauge railway

Image source: sibiuagnitarailway.com

The Hârtibaci Valley narrow-gauge railway is more than just a tourist train—it is an authentic experience that combines the history, nature, and rural traditions of Transylvania. Restored and maintained with passion by volunteers, this narrow-gauge railway takes you on a relaxing journey through a fairytale landscape dominated by rolling hills, picturesque villages, and the silhouette of the Carpathian Mountains in the distance.

The Mocănița is not just a means of transport, but a way to experience history firsthand. Built between 1895 and 1910, the line was part of the Sighișoara–Sibiu route, which was closed in 2001 and brought back to life in 2007 through the tireless efforts of the Prietenii Mocăniței association.

The atmosphere is unique: the noise of the diesel locomotive or, occasionally, the romantic smoke of a steam locomotive, intertwine with the smell of fresh hay and idyllic landscapes. This is an experience suitable for families with children, history buffs, photographers looking for spectacular images, or tourists who want to discover Transylvania in an unconventional way.

Memorable activities and experiences:

  • Regular diesel train service – round trips between Cornățel and Hosman, covering a distance of 14 km, with a duration of approximately 90 minutes.
  • Steam locomotive rides – organized for special events, such as Easter holidays or summer festivals.
  • Steam locomotive rides – organized for special events, such as Easter holidays or summer festivals.
  • Birthdays and parties – organized in specially equipped carriages, with the possibility of stops along the route for outdoor activities.
  • Private tours for groups – perfect for school classes, organized trips, or community gatherings.

Schedule:

  • Period March 30, 2025 – June 30, 2025: regular service every Sunday, with departures at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. from Cornățel station.
  • Steam races: June 7–9, 2025, and August 15–17, 2025.
  • Special event: “Sunset at Mocăniță” – every Friday evening.

Rates:

  • Diesel train ticket:
    • Child: 25 lei
    • Adults: 50 lei
  • Sunset at Mocăniță:
    • Child: 25 lei
    • Adult: 40 lei

8. Feel the vibrant pulse of Sibiu at authentic cultural events

events in Sibiu this weekend

events in Sibiu Image source: turnulsfatului.roweekend

Sibiu is a city where culture comes alive at every turn. No matter when you choose to visit, you will find shows, festivals, or special events that turn every day into a memorable experience. The historic atmosphere of the old town blends perfectly with the energy of modern events, making each visit different.

Sibiu is a city where culture comes alive at every turn. No matter when you choose to visit, you will find shows, festivals, or special events that turn every day into a memorable experience. The historic atmosphere of the old town blends perfectly with the energy of modern events, making each visit different.

Festivals not to be missed in Sibiu:

  • The Sibiu International Theater Festival (FITS) – a veritable marathon of performing arts, with theater, dance, contemporary circus, and music performances held in the city’s squares, streets, and elegant halls.

  • ARTmania Festival – dedicated to rock music and visual arts enthusiasts, transforming Piața Mare into a spectacular stage.

  • Sunbreak Festival – kicking off summer with music, outdoor activities, and a festive atmosphere.

  • Food festivals – such as those dedicated to wine or street food, where you can taste traditional dishes and fine wines.

  • Events dedicated to traditions – such as the Hungarikum Days at the ASTRA Museum, where culture and gastronomy come together in an authentic setting.

  • Concerts in the Evangelical Cathedral – magical evenings of classical or choral music in an impressive setting.

The best way to truly enjoy Sibiu’s cultural life is to check the schedule of events for the weekend you are visiting. This way, you can attend festivals, shows, or concerts that will delight your soul. After a day full of experiences, you can return comfortably to the Sennse Boutique Hotel, conveniently located near the city center, for some well-deserved pampering and perfect rest.

Recommendations based on interests:

  • For lovers of theater and performing arts: the performances of the International Theater Festival and the productions of the Radu Stanca Theater.
  • For live music enthusiasts: festivals such as ARTmania or Sunbreak, as well as jazz and classical music concerts.
  • For foodies: food fairs and wine festivals, where you can discover local and international flavors.
  • For families: community events and activities at the ASTRA Museum, where traditions come to life.

Regardless of the season, Sibiu always has a festival or event that will transform your visit into a unique experience. The secret is to check the program during your visit and keep your schedule open for the surprises the city has in store.

9. Experience nature in premium style with the experiences offered by Sennse Boutique Hotel

beyond the trails of Sibiu

Image source: sennse-hotel.rosibiu

We want our guests to enjoy the most beautiful experiences in Sibiu, and for nature and outdoor enthusiasts, we facilitate access to tours and electric bike rentals through a special partnership with Beyond Trails. This way, you can explore the spectacular landscapes around Sibiu in a relaxing and accessible way, without much effort.

Through this partnership, we offer the opportunity to access guided tours and personalized itineraries suitable for all levels of fitness: from gentle walks through picturesque villages to more challenging mountain adventures. The experience is designed for your comfort and relaxation, and after a day full of activities, you can return to the comfort and elegance of Sennse Hotel, the ideal place for rest and recovery.

This collaboration is part of our commitment to providing guests with easy access to the best experiences in the region, transforming their stay with us into a complete vacation that combines adventure with relaxation in a refined and welcoming setting.

Who this experience is suitable for:

  • Sports and nature enthusiasts – who want to discover spectacular trails.
  • Families – looking for fun and safe outdoor activities.
  • Couples – who want an active getaway followed by relaxation in an intimate setting.
  • For those who appreciate premium experiences – combining adventure with the comfort of ideal accommodation.

10. Enjoy the relaxing atmosphere and local dishes in the Main Square

Sibiu Grand Market

Image source: transfagarasan.travel

The historic heart of Sibiu, Piața Mare, is where history meets gastronomic refinement. Surrounded by impressive medieval buildings and enlivened by lively terraces, the square invites you to start your day with an aromatic coffee, relax while watching the passers-by, and discover a variety of local and international dishes.

A culinary variety for all tastes

The Great Square is home to some of Sibiu’s most popular restaurants and bars, each with its own unique character and charm. Here you can choose from:

  • Traditional Romanian restaurants, where you can indulge in tripe soup, stuffed cabbage rolls, grilled sausages, and authentic desserts such as cozonac (sweet bread) or papanași (fried dough balls).
  • Terraces with international menus, where modern dishes blend harmoniously with the historic landscape, ideal for romantic dinners or gatherings with friends.
  • Chic cafés, perfect for a quiet midday break, where you will find specialty coffees and refined desserts.
  • Elegant bars and wine bars where you can taste local wines from Transylvanian vineyards or masterfully prepared cocktails.

Every meal in Piața Mare is a complete experience: in addition to the delicious food, you will be surrounded by the vibrant atmosphere of the historic center, with street performers, cultural events, and a unique energy. The square transforms as the day progresses: in the morning, it is a place of leisure and coffee; at noon, it is the ideal destination for a hearty lunch; and in the evening, it is a lively setting, magically lit, where long tables and stories never end.

To fully enjoy the culinary experience in Piața Mare, it is advisable to make a reservation in advance, especially on weekends or during festivals, when restaurants and terraces are in high demand.

Sibiu – The city that invites you to enjoy unforgettable experiences

weekend in Sibiu

Image source: transfagarasan.travel

Sibiu is not just a tourist destination, but a place where tradition blends harmoniously with adventure, culture, and relaxation. No matter what season you choose to visit, you will always find activities that will delight your soul and provide you with memorable experiences. To make your choice easier, we have prepared a comparison table with the 10 recommended experiences.

Comparative table of the 10 activities in Sibiu

 

No. Activity Location Activity Type Schedule Approximate price Specific Features
1 Walk through the historic center The Great Square & medieval streets Walking tour Free, permanent Free Medieval architecture, cobbled streets, historic buildings
2 Visit to the Brukenthal Museum Big Market Museum of Art and Culture Tuesday–Sunday: 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. 50 lei/25 lei/12.5 lei One of the oldest art galleries in Romania, European and Transylvanian collections
3 Visit to the Astra Museum The Grove of Sibiu Open-air museum Daily: 8:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m./9:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. 35 lei/15 lei/9 lei The largest open-air museum in Romania, with over 400 monuments
4 Sibiu Zoo Under Arini Park Relaxation & nature Daily: 9:30 a.m.–7:30 p.m. 10 lei/5 lei The oldest zoo in Romania, on the shore of the lake
5 Ocna Sibiului Ocna Sibiului Spa relaxation and treatment Monday–Sunday: 9:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m. 35 lei/ 20 lei/ 10 lei Salt lake, natural therapies, pools, and spa
6 Arka Adventure Park (Outdoor/Indoor) Păltiniș (24 km from Sibiu) / Sibiu Adventure park Varies depending on location Varies depending on location Ziplines, tree trails, indoor climbing, activities for all ages
7 The Hartibaci Valley Narrow-Gauge Railway Cornățel – Hosman Tourist train ride Varies depending on the package chosen 25 lei/ 40 lei/ 50 lei Train ride through the nature reserve
8 Festivals and events Various locations in Sibiu Culture & Entertainment Variable Variable Theater, concerts, fairs, international festivals
9 Beyond Trails E-Motion Partnership with Sennse Boutique Hotel Hiking & cycling Reservation Variable Guided tours, electric bikes, exclusive experience for hotel guests
10 Relaxation in the Main Square and tasting Big Market Gastronomy & relaxation Permanent, depending on location Variable Restaurants serving traditional and international cuisine, medieval atmosphere

Every experience in Sibiu reflects the cultural richness and diversity of the city – from peaceful walks through the historic center to the energy of adventure parks or the charm of natural landscapes waiting to be discovered. Sibiu is a place to be truly experienced, and you can enjoy the best it has to offer by choosing accommodation that perfectly complements your stay.

Sennse Boutique Hotel is the ideal place for a weekend in Sibiu: located close to the heart of the city and the main attractions, the location combines elegance with comfort and personalized services for an unforgettable experience. Plan your stay now and enjoy everything Sibiu has to offer, with the assurance of premium accommodation. Book your room at Sennse Boutique Hotel now!