Sibiu Upper Town: What to See, Eat & Do in Old Town

Part of our Sibiu travel guide  — explore all our Sibiu posts.

Sibiu, a jewel in Transylvania, Romania, boasts one of Europe's most beautiful and best-preserved medieval towns. The city is distinctly divided into an Upper Town (Orașul de Sus) and a Lower Town (Orașul de Jos), each with its own character. Our focus, the Upper Town, is the historical heart of Sibiu, a vibrant neighborhood teeming with grand squares, architectural wonders, and a palpable sense of history. In autumn, the crisp air and fewer crowds make exploring its charming streets and cozy cafes an absolute delight.

Exploring Sibiu Upper Town: A Neighborhood Guide

9:00 AM: Grand Square (Piața Mare) Immersion. Begin your exploration at Piața Mare, the largest and most impressive square in Sibiu Upper Town. This grand square is flanked by magnificent buildings, including the Brukenthal National Museum, the Catholic Parish Church, and the Council Tower. Take your time to walk around, admire the architecture (especially the famous 'eyes' on the rooftops), and feel the pulse of the city. Grab a coffee from one of the many cafes lining the square and people-watch.

10:30 AM: Council Tower & Piața Mică. Ascend the Council Tower (Turnul Sfatului) for panoramic views of Sibiu, including both the Upper and Lower Towns, and the surrounding Carpathian foothills. The climb is rewarded with breathtaking vistas. Afterwards, descend and explore Piața Mică (Small Square), connected to Piața Mare by a narrow passage. This charming square, with its smaller scale and intimate feel, hosts artisan shops, cafes, and leads to the famous Bridge of Lies.

12:00 PM: Bridge of Lies & Historic Passage. Cross the picturesque Bridge of Lies (Podul Minciunilor), Romania's oldest cast-iron bridge, steeped in local legends. From here, you can glimpse down into the Lower Town. Explore the quaint passages and narrow streets connecting Piața Mică to other parts of the Upper Town, discovering hidden courtyards and facades. This area is perfect for snapping photos of Sibiu's iconic architecture.

1:00 PM: Traditional Transylvanian Lunch. For lunch, delve into authentic Transylvanian cuisine. Head to a traditional restaurant in the Upper Town, such as Crama Sibiul Vechi, to savor hearty dishes like ciorbă de burtă (tripe soup), sarmale (cabbage rolls), or mici (grilled minced meat rolls). Pair your meal with a local Romanian wine or beer. Autumn is perfect for these comforting, flavorful dishes.

2:30 PM: Brukenthal National Museum. Immerse yourself in art and history at the Brukenthal National Museum, one of Romania's oldest museums. Housed in a stunning Baroque palace, it features European art, Transylvanian paintings, and historical artifacts. Allow at least 2-3 hours to explore its extensive collections.

5:00 PM: Relaxation & Souvenirs. Spend the late afternoon browsing the unique artisan shops around Piața Mică and Piața Huet. You'll find handmade crafts, traditional textiles, and local delicacies. Enjoy a leisurely coffee or a glass of mulled wine (vin fiert) in a cozy cafe as the evening light paints the squares.

7:00 PM: Evening Ambiance & Dinner. As dusk falls, Sibiu's Upper Town takes on a magical glow. The squares are beautifully lit, and the atmosphere becomes even more enchanting. For dinner, choose a restaurant with outdoor seating (weather permitting in early autumn) or a cozy interior, perhaps near Piața Mare, to enjoy the evening ambiance. Many places offer live music or traditional performances on weekends.

The Experience

The moment you step into Sibiu's Upper Town, you are transported. The vastness of Piața Mare, ringed by buildings with their watchful 'eyes', feels almost theatrical. Cobblestone streets hum softly underfoot, leading to hidden courtyards where the scent of baking pastries mingles with damp earth. On the Bridge of Lies, the faint murmur of legends seems to cling to the ironwork. The air in autumn is crisp and clean, carrying the distant chime of church bells and the cheerful chatter from cafe terraces. As evening settles, the warm glow from the lamplit windows turns the stone facades a buttery gold, creating an atmosphere that is both grand and intimately welcoming.

Nearby Pairings

1. Lower Town (Orașul de Jos): Explore the more industrial, working-class history with fortifications, craft guilds, and narrow passages.
2. Astra National Museum Complex: An open-air museum located just outside the city, showcasing traditional Romanian village life, perfect for a half-day trip.
3. Cisnădioara Fortified Church: A beautiful, well-preserved fortified church in a charming village, a short drive from Sibiu, offering historical insight and scenic views.

How to Visit Smoothly

Sibiu Upper Town is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as cobblestones are prevalent. Autumn (September-October) offers pleasant weather and beautiful foliage in the surrounding areas. Most attractions are within easy walking distance. English is widely spoken in tourist areas. Consider purchasing the Sibiu City Card for discounts on museums and local transport if you plan extensive sightseeing. Public Wi-Fi is often available in the main squares.

Photo Notes

The 'eyes' on the rooftops are a unique photographic subject – try to capture them with different expressions! The Council Tower offers fantastic panoramic shots, especially during golden hour. Piața Mare and Piața Mică are great for wide-angle street photography, capturing the architectural details and vibrant life. For atmospheric shots, explore the narrow passages and look for leading lines and interesting light. The Bridge of Lies is iconic, especially at night when it's lit up.