BV03-Sibiu & Transfgran:Medieval Charm &Mountain Thrills

Exploring Romania’s Heart and Mountains: A Day in Sibiu & Transfagarasan

Imagine starting your day in the charming medieval town of Sibiu, renowned for its well-preserved architecture and vibrant history. After a two-hour guided tour exploring the iconic Evangelical Church, the Liars Bridge, and the Council Tower, you’ll have some free time to wander the cobblestone streets at your own pace. Then, the adventure shifts gears: you’ll hop into a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and head toward the legendary Transfagarasan Road. This route isn’t just a scenic drive; it’s a rollercoaster through some of Romania’s most spectacular mountain landscapes, culminating at the stunning Balea Lake and cascading Balea Waterfall.

What we love about this tour is how it combines culture with breathtaking scenery. The walking tour of Sibiu gives a genuine feel for the city’s history and architecture, while the drive along Transfagarasan offers jaw-dropping vistas that are perfect for photography. We also appreciate that the tour is designed to suit those wanting an active, memorable day without being overly strenuous or overly rushed.

A consideration to keep in mind is that the Transfagarasan Road is only open from July to October, so if you’re visiting outside that window, the route will be replaced with an alternative. Also, the tour is not suitable for those afraid of heights, given the mountain roads and high-altitude stops. This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate history, stunning mountain scenery, and don’t mind a full day of exploration.

If you’re looking for a blend of culture, adventure, and spectacular views, this experience offers a balanced day that feels authentic and well-paced. It’s perfect for those who want to see Romania’s legendary mountain roads while understanding a bit more about the local culture and history in Sibiu.

Key Points

• Cultural immersion: A guided tour of Sibiu highlights key landmarks like the Evangelical Church and the Liars Bridge.
• Scenic drive: The Transfagarasan Road is considered one of the world’s most stunning mountain routes, winding through the Făgăraș Mountains.
• Unique stops: You’ll visit Bâlea Lake, a glacial lake at over 2,000 meters altitude, and witness Bâlea Waterfall’s impressive 60-meter cascade.
• Flexible experience: Free time in Sibiu and optional cable car rides at Bâlea Lake provide personalized opportunities.
• Value for money: At $153, the tour offers a full day of culture and scenery with transportation, guides, and taxes included.
• Limited availability: Open only from July to October, so plan accordingly for the best mountain views.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Review of the BV03 Sibiu & Transfagarasan Tour

Starting in Brasov and the Journey to Sibiu

The day begins early, with pickup in Brasov at 8:30 a.m., in front of your hotel. The modern, air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort for the roughly two-hour drive westward through the Carpathian foothills. The scenery here is a gentle introduction to Romania’s natural beauty—rolling hills, forests, and distant mountain peaks. Your guide, whose enthusiasm and knowledge we found engaging, will point out interesting sights en route, setting the tone for a day packed with sights.

Arriving in Sibiu, you’ll immediately grasp why this city is often called the “heart of Transylvanian culture.” The Old Town exudes medieval charm with its narrow alleys, colorful facades, and historic squares. Your guide, perhaps a local historian, will lead you through the main sites—the Gothic Evangelical Church, with its towering 73-meter steeple, and the Liars Bridge, a quaint stone archway wrapped in local legends that say it “creaks” when someone tells a lie standing on it. The Council Tower offers sweeping views over the city’s rooftops and distant mountains—a perfect spot for photos.

The guided tour lasts about two hours, giving you just enough time to absorb Sibiu’s ambiance without feeling hurried. We loved the way the guide managed to weave history and local stories seamlessly, making the city come alive.

Exploring Sibiu at Your Own Pace

After the guided portion, you’re free to explore. We recommend wandering the quaint streets, perhaps grabbing a coffee or a pastry in one of the cozy cafes. The city’s vibrant atmosphere makes it easy to lose track of time—yet, at the same time, you’re reminded of the importance of sticking to the schedule to make the most of the mountain adventure ahead.

The Drive Along Transfagarasan Road

Post-Sibiu, your journey continues into the mountains. This is the highlight for many travelers—the Transfagarasan Road—a winding, breathtaking route carved through the Făgăraș Mountains. Built in the 1970s as a strategic military route, it gained fame when the British motoring show Top Gear called it the “best road in the world.” The drive features hairpin bends, steep descents, and panoramic viewpoints.

The road stretches over 90 kilometers and climbs to a maximum altitude of 2,042 meters. As you ascend, the scenery transforms from lush forests to alpine landscapes, with views that unfold at every twist in the road. The experience is both exhilarating and humbling—here you realize why this route has a reputation as one of the most scenic and engineering marvels in Europe.

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Highlights: Bâlea Lake and Waterfall

One of the tour’s most memorable moments is reaching Bâlea Lake, a glacial lake sitting at the highest point of the road. Surrounded by rugged peaks, the lake’s icy waters reflect the mountains, providing a perfect photo opportunity. You might opt for the cable car ride (for an extra 17 Euros), which takes you even higher, offering astonishing views of the surrounding peaks, or simply enjoy the serene landscape from the lake’s shoreline.

Nearby, the Bâlea Waterfall plunges 60 meters down the mountainside. It’s a dramatic sight, especially when framed by the rugged mountain backdrop. The waterfall’s force and the surrounding untouched wilderness make it a favorite stop—sure to impress nature lovers.

Return Journey and Additional Tips

After soaking in the mountain vistas and taking plenty of photos, your driver will descend back toward Brașov. The return trip takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on stops and traffic, giving you some time to reflect on the day’s sights and perhaps share your favorite moments with fellow travelers.

Throughout, the transportation is smooth, and the guide provides insightful commentary—an essential element for understanding the significance of each site.

Value and Practical Considerations

At $153 per person, this tour offers excellent value—covering transportation, entrance taxes, and guided commentary—especially considering it packs culture, scenic drives, and outdoor beauty into one day. Keep in mind that entrance fees or optional extras, like the cable car, are not included, so budgeting a small amount for those is wise.

The tour operates only from July to October, aligning with the open season of Transfagarasan Road. If you visit outside these months, you’ll enjoy an alternative route, which may offer different but equally beautiful scenery.

For those concerned about safety, be aware that the route involves mountain roads with high elevations, making it unsuitable for travelers with fear of heights. The group size is private, making it more comfortable and personalized, and the guide’s local expertise adds a layer of authenticity.

Final thoughts: Who is this tour best suited for?

This experience suits travelers eager to combine cultural discovery with natural beauty. History buffs will enjoy exploring Sibiu’s medieval architecture, while adventure seekers will thrill at the mountain drive and stunning vistas. It’s ideal for those who want a full day of sights without sacrificing comfort—perfect for a mid-range budget and those with a day to spare in Romania.

The Sum Up

For anyone wanting to see Romania’s historic towns and the legendary mountain roads that have captured imaginations worldwide, this tour hits the mark. The blend of guided city exploration, free time, and a scenic mountain drive offers a well-rounded, memorable experience. The highlight—transversing the Transfagarasan Road—makes it especially worthwhile, delivering views and thrills you’ll talk about long after.

We think this tour is a smart pick for travelers who value authentic, scenic, and cultural experiences without overloading their day. The comfort of a private group, combined with a knowledgeable guide, makes it feel special but still practical. Most importantly, it’s a chance to create unforgettable memories of Romania’s majestic landscapes and historic charm.

FAQ Section

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but it’s not recommended for those afraid of heights due to the mountain roads and high-altitude stops.

How long does the drive along Transfagarasan take?
The drive itself is part of a 90-kilometer route, with the return journey to Brasov taking around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on stops and traffic.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers transport in a modern vehicle, an English-speaking guide and driver, all parking and road taxes, and a map of Romania.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but there will be stops where you can purchase food and snacks.

Can I take the cable car at Bâlea Lake?
Yes, the cable car ride costs 17 Euros per person and offers an incredible panoramic view from higher elevations.

What should I bring for the day?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and perhaps a light jacket, especially at higher altitudes where it can be cooler.

When is the best time to take this tour?
Between July and October, when the Transfagarasan Road is open and accessible for this scenic drive. Outside those months, an alternative route is provided.

This tour offers a rich combination of culture, nature, and adventure—a perfect way to experience Romania’s diverse beauty in just one day.

You can check availability for your dates here: