Sighişoara

Why?

Stylish and tranquil, found in the middle of the fairy tale-like scenery of Transylvania, Sighişoara is one of the most romantic cities in Romania. The citadel of Sighişoara, also known as the “pearl of Transylvania”, is the only medieval stronghold in Europe in which people still live and is a veritable outdoor museum.

Take a walk through history, breathe in the mysterious atmosphere of times past and recharge yourself in colourful Sighişoara.

Discover

Found on the Târnava Mare river in the heart of Transylvania, Sighişoara (Schäßburg in German) is a small city with less than 30,000 people. But its fabulous history has propelled it to the top of the list of historical attractions in Romania. Starting in the 12^th century, the Saxons came into Transylvania and laid the foundations of the fortification of Sighişoara on Cetăţii Hill. Strongly fortified and having 14 defense towers (9 of which still stand today) to hold off the Ottoman attacks, Sighişoara quickly became an important center of trade and craftsmanship.

Its well preserved state and the fact that it is the only stronghold in the south-east of Europe still partially inhabited today are some of the reasons for including Sighişoara on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Explore the narrow streets on foot, admire its colourful medieval houses and defense towers, and take time to have a closer look at its most emblematic buildings: the Clock Tower, the home of Vlad Dracul, the Pupils Stairs, the School and Church on the hill or the Church of the Dominican Monastery.

Sighişoara is beautiful any time of the year, but a special atmosphere prevails during the Medieval Festival, a major cultural celebration held annually during the last week of July. Tourists from all over the world come to enjoy the medieval atmosphere and the numerous cultural events: music, theater, film, art exhibitions, medieval dance and street performances.

We recommend

Climb the Clock Tower to enjoy the fortress in its entire splendour. The ticket price includes admission to the small history museum of the tower.
Visit the old cemetery on Fortress Hill, where you will be treated to a beautiful panorama of Târnava Valley.
If you find the time, explore the beautiful scenery around Sighişoara on a rented bike.

Good to know

Sighişoara is connected to many larger cities in Romania via European route E60.
By train you can get here by taking the Bucharest – Braşov – Cluj – Oradea route.
The closest airports are in Sibiu and Cluj-Napoca.
A tourist information point can be found in the citadel, facing the Clock Tower.
The Post Office can be found in the lower city on 1 Decembrie Street. Schedule: Monday-Friday 7:00-20:00.
Bikes can be rented in the citadel, at 6 Muzeului Square.
You have numerous accommodation possibilities in the citadel.
You can park in the citadel for a fee, but ideally you should leave your car at the foot of the hill and climb on foot.