Things To Do
in Media

Mediaș is a well-preserved medieval town in Transylvania, Romania, set on a gentle bend of the Târnava Mare valley. Its historic center features brick Gothic churches, winding cobblestone streets, and colorful merchant houses that tell stories of centuries past. The town is known for its fortified church complex, charming squares, and a relaxed pace that makes it easy to explore on foot.

Outside the old town, Mediaș serves as a convenient base for day trips to Sibiu, the Mureș valley, and the surrounding villages.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Exploration
morning
:

Arrive in Media and check into your chosen accommodation. After settling in, take a leisurely walk around the town to soak in the local atmosphere and admire the unique mix of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Don't forget to grab a traditional Romanian breakfast at a quaint café.

afternoon
:

Visit the stunning Media Citadel, where you can explore the ancient walls and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area. Afterwards, head to the local artisan shops to pick up authentic crafts and souvenirs. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local bistro where you can taste traditional Transylvanian dishes.

evening
:

As the sun sets, find a cozy restaurant to dine at, savoring the local cuisine paired with Romanian wine. After dinner, take a stroll through the historic streets, illuminated by charming street lamps. Consider visiting a local bar or café for some live music and mingling with locals.

day 2
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Begin your day by visiting the Museum of the History of the Locality to learn about Media's rich past. Spend time viewing artifacts and exhibits that highlight the town's significance in Romanian history. Enjoy a traditional breakfast nearby at a local bakery.

afternoon
:

Join a guided walking tour to fully appreciate the historic significance of Media's Old Town. Walk through cobblestoned streets while listening to fascinating stories and history that shaped the area. Take a break for lunch at a popular local eatery featuring homemade Romanian dishes.

evening
:

Head to the town square, where you can enjoy outdoor performances or art shows if available. Afterward, opt for a sunset picnic with local snacks purchased earlier in the day. Wrap up your evening with a quiet walk back to your accommodation, reflecting on the day's experiences.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$8-12
Cup of coffee$1-3
🚆Public transport fare$0.50-1.50
🏨Mid-range hotel per night$40-70
🚕Taxi ride (short distance)$4-7

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Well-preserved medieval center with picturesque streets
  • Close to Sibiu and other Transylvanian sites
  • Relaxed, friendly local atmosphere
  • Good value for money compared to bigger cities
  • Smaller selection of upscale dining and nightlife
  • Limited direct international flights to the town; needs travel via Sibiu or Cluj
  • "Bună ziua" - Hello / Good day
  • "Vă rog" - Please
  • "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
  • "Vorbiți engleză?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Cât costă?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Media

Visit one of these nice places.

Historic Center of Mediaș

Cobblestone streets, brick façades, and the central square create classic Transylvanian photography scenes.

Fortified Church of Mediaș

Impressive brick architecture with defensive walls and towers, especially photogenic at dusk.

Mureș River Bank

Widely accessible riverside views, reflections at sunrise or sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Media

Mediaș offers hearty Transylvanian cuisine with Romanian and Hungarian influences. Expect comforting meat dishes, polenta, fresh pastries, and seasonal produce, all enjoyed in welcoming taverns and cafes.

Media Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sarmale cu mămăligă

Cabbage rolls served with cornmeal porridge and a tomato-based sauce.

Must-Try!

Ciorbă de burtă

Tripe soup cooked with sour cream, vinegar, and garlic.

Mămăligă cu brânză și smântână

Polenta topped with salty cheese and sour cream.

Zacuscă cu ardei copți

Smoky vegetable spread made from roasted peppers and eggplant.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mediaș Central Market

Seasonal produce, meats, cheeses, and street snacks from local vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Mediaș has a continental climate with warm summers, cold winters, and distinct spring and autumn transitions.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is common; address people politely with Mr./Ms. and use first names after familiarity.

CulturalNorms

Be courteous, dress modestly in religious sites, and avoid loud behavior in churches and museums.

Safety Guide

Safety

The town is generally safe for visitors; practice standard travel safety, keep valuables secure in crowded areas, and be mindful of traffic as roads can be busy around market times. Dial 112 for emergencies in Romania.

Tipping in Media

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping around 5-10% in restaurants if service is good; small tips in cafes are appreciated.

Payment Methods

Most places accept cash (RON) and bank cards (Visa/Mastercard); some smaller venues may be cash-only.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days with occasional rain; carry sun protection and water, as afternoon temperatures can rise.

Autumn

Charming foliage in the surrounding countryside and harvest markets; great for photography and strolls.

Winter

Cold with possible snow; festive lights in the old town and crisp, clear skies for photography.

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming trees; ideal for walking tours and outdoor markets.

Nightlife Guide

Media at Night

Mediaș offers a relaxed nightlife with a handful of pubs, cafés, and small live music venues concentrated in the historic core.

Hiking in Media

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mureș Valley Riverside Trail

Easy riverside hike with scenic views, suitable for all levels.

Țara Sibiului Hills Loop

Green rolling hills with viewpoints and forestry trails; ideal for a day hike.

Airports

How to reach Media by plane.

Sibiu International Airport (SBZ)

Main air gateway for Mediaș; about 50-60 minutes by road.

Cluj-Napoca International Airport (CLJ)

Major airport in the region; about 2-3 hours by road.

Târgu Mureș International Airport (TGM)

Alternative regional airport; roughly 2-2.5 hours.

Getting Around

Walkability

Mediaș is highly walkable in its historic core, with most attractions within a compact area; cobbled streets can be uneven in places, so wear sturdy shoes.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Romanians

Majority population with minority Hungarian and Roma communities.

Hungarians

Historical presence in Transylvania contributes to cultural influences.

Roma

A noticeable community; respectful engagement is appreciated.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The most popular sport; local clubs and crowds attend matches.

Basketball

Played in local gyms and schools; occasional community leagues.

Cycling

Popular in the surrounding countryside and along river paths.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light in the historic center; parking is available but can fill up; regional bus and rail connections link Mediaș with Sibiu and nearby towns; car travel is easy for day trips.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Media.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are available in most places; look for zacuscă, cheese plates, roasted vegetables, and vegetarian soups; ask for meat-free versions of local dishes when possible.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is available in Mediaș through local clinics and a hospital; EU citizens should bring the European Health Insurance Card; pharmacies are common in town; for emergencies dial 112.

Discover Romania

Read more in our Romania 2025 Travel Guide.

Romania Travel Guide