Things To Do
in Sighişoara

Sighişoara is a picturesque town in Romania, renowned for its well-preserved medieval architecture and rich history. It is the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the historical figure who inspired the Dracula legend. With vibrant cobblestone streets and colorful buildings, Sighişoara offers a charming atmosphere that attracts tourists year-round.

The town is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcasing the best of Transylvanian culture and heritage.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Old Town
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café, followed by a visit to the Clock Tower, the symbol of Sighişoara, where you can climb to the top for panoramic views of the town.

afternoon
:

Explore the Church on the Hill and its beautiful cemetery, then stroll through the narrow streets to admire the colorful facades of the houses and visit the Birthplace of Vlad Dracula.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at Casa Vlad Dracul, a restaurant known for its traditional Romanian cuisine, and take a leisurely walk through the town as it lights up at night.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the History Museum located in the former school building, followed by a guided tour of the fortified walls and towers surrounding the town.

afternoon
:

Head to the local market to sample some street food, then visit the nearby Artisan District to shop for handmade crafts and souvenirs.

evening
:

Wrap up your visit with a wine tasting at a local winery, where you can learn about Romanian wines and enjoy a delightful dinner.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$10-15
Coffee$2
🚌Public transport ticket$0.50
🏨Night in a hotel$40-70
🛍️Souvenir$5-20

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural heritage
  • Stunning medieval architecture
  • Friendly and welcoming locals
  • Limited nightlife options
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist season
  • Some attractions may have limited accessibility
  • "Bună ziua" - Good day
  • "Mulțumesc" - Thank you
  • "Unde este toaleta?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Vorbiți engleză?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Cât costă?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Sighişoara

Visit one of these nice places.

Clock Tower

An iconic landmark with breathtaking views of the town, perfect for capturing the sunrise.

Church on the Hill

A stunning church with a picturesque backdrop, ideal for landscape photography.

The Citadel Walls

The ancient walls provide a unique perspective of the town and a great spot for sunset shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sighişoara

Sighişoara offers a delightful culinary experience, combining traditional Romanian flavors with local ingredients.

Sighişoara Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Sarmale

Cabbage rolls stuffed with a mixture of meat and rice, often served with sour cream.

Must-Try!

Mămăligă

Cornmeal porridge similar to polenta, often accompanied by cheese and sour cream.

Ciorbă de burtă

A traditional tripe soup, known for its sour taste and creamy texture.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Sighişoara Market

A vibrant market featuring local produce, cheeses, meats, and homemade pastries.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls offering traditional snacks like langos (fried dough) and cozonac (sweet bread).

Climate Guide

Weather

Sighişoara experiences a temperate continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters. Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while winter can drop to -5°C (23°F). Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, so packing an umbrella is wise.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake is common when meeting someone, and addressing people with their title is appreciated.

Respect for Traditions

Be mindful of local customs and traditions, especially during festivals and religious events.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin, and keep your hands visible but not resting on the table.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sighişoara is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. However, it's advisable to stay vigilant in crowded areas to avoid pickpocketing. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and it’s recommended to have travel insurance for any unforeseen circumstances.

Tipping in Sighişoara

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants; rounding up is also appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases or at local markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild weather with blooming flowers; perfect for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Warm temperatures attract tourists; expect lively atmosphere and outdoor events.

Autumn

Cooler weather and beautiful fall foliage; a great time for photography and hiking.

Winter

Cold and snowy; the town is peaceful, and holiday decorations add charm.

Nightlife Guide

Sighişoara at Night

Sighişoara's nightlife is relatively low-key but charming, with several pubs and bars offering local wines and beers. The vibrant atmosphere in the summer sees outdoor seating filled with locals and tourists alike, while live music can often be found at various venues. For a unique experience, try visiting a wine cellar for tastings or join a local gathering for traditional music and dance.

Hiking in Sighişoara

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Pădurea de la Sighişoara

A lovely forest area with well-marked trails, perfect for a day hike amidst nature.

The Apuseni Mountains

A bit further away, offering challenging hikes with stunning views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Airports

How to reach Sighişoara by plane.

Târgu Mureș International Airport

Located about 70 km from Sighişoara, this airport offers both domestic and limited international flights, providing convenient access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sighişoara is highly walkable, with its compact medieval town layout making it easy to explore on foot. The cobblestone streets can be uneven, so comfortable footwear is recommended. Most attractions are within a short walking distance, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenic views and charming atmosphere.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Hungarians

A significant Hungarian-speaking community resides in Sighişoara, contributing to the town's cultural diversity.

Romanians

The majority population is Romanian, reflecting the country's rich heritage and traditions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is a popular sport in the region, with local teams participating in various leagues.

Traditional Romanian Sports

Activities such as Oină, a traditional Romanian bat-and-ball game, are enjoyed by locals during festivals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sighişoara is generally low, with most roads being narrow and designed for local traffic. Public transportation options include buses that connect to nearby towns, but many visitors prefer walking due to the town's size. Parking can be limited in the old town area, so it's advisable to use public transport or walk.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sighişoara.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check menus as options may vary.

Gluten-Free Choices

Finding gluten-free options can be challenging; inquire at restaurants about their offerings.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Sighişoara is adequate, with several clinics and a hospital available for emergency services. However, for more specialized care, residents may need to travel to larger cities like Târgu Mureș. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance to cover any medical expenses.

Discover Romania

Read more in our Romania 2025 Travel Guide.

Romania Travel Guide