Explore Sighișoara with Andrada Costoiu
Explore Sighisoara , an old medieval town tucked into the heart of Transylvania, Romania. It is a place where time seems to slow down and history lingers in every stone and shadow. I visited during the summer, when the air was thick with the scent of sun-warmed stone and blooming trees. .
Though it is not as famous as some of Romania’s older cities, Sighișoara is just as breathtaking—perhaps even more so for the quiet charm it holds. It’s a town of narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorfully faded houses. It is a place of whispered legends and hilltop views that seem to stretch beyond the centuries.
Surrounded by rolling hills and old forests, the town itself isn’t large. Though, it holds within its fortified walls one of the most beautifully preserved citadel-cities in all of Europe. Whether you’re drawn by its deep historical roots or the sheer romance of wandering its streets, Sighișoara may become for you……like the pages of a favorite old book.
Getting to Sighișoara
Reaching Sighișoara from Bucharest is relatively easy, and the journey itself can be part of the adventure. You have two main options: train or car.
By train, the ride takes about 5 hours. It is quite affordable. Tickets typically range between $10–15 USD, depending on the class and the time of day. Trains in Romania may not be the fastest, nor the most glamorous, but they offer a relaxed pace and a scenic route. You track pass through the countryside, winding past small villages, rolling hills, and fields of sunflowers in the summer. It’s a great choice if you prefer to sit back, read, nap, or just take in the view without the stress of driving.
By car, the distance from Bucharest to Sighișoara is roughly 300 km (about 185 miles). The drive also takes around 5 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. While Romanian roads can be unpredictable, the freedom of having your own car means you can stop along the way—perhaps for a roadside picnic, a quick detour to a Saxon village, or a coffee in Brașov or Sibiu if you’re planning a broader itinerary. The drive offers stunning scenery, especially in the warmer months, with lush green hills, forests, and scattered red-roofed towns.
Whether you choose the convenience of the train or the flexibility of the road, the journey to Sighișoara sets the tone for the magic that awaits.
History of Sighișoara
Sighișoara’s roots reach back to the late 13th century, when it began to flourish as a Saxon settlement and stronghold. Built around 1280, the citadel played a vital commercial role in Central Europe, standing guard over key trade routes. Its fortified position also made it a center of resistance against the advancing Ottoman Empire. To this day, the town is encircled by thick defensive walls. Within them stand 14 surviving towers and 5 artillery bastions—each one originally maintained by a local guild, from blacksmiths to tailors. Walking through the town feels like stepping into a living museum of medieval resilience and craftsmanship.
Sighișoara is also steeped in legend. It’s believed that Vlad Dracul—the father of Vlad the Impaler, who inspired the Dracula myth—once lived here in exile. Some stories claim that Vlad the Impaler himself was born within the citadel’s walls, though the exact house remains disputed and unverified.
Beyond the Dracula lore, Sighișoara has also drawn more modern admirers: King Charles III (then Prince Charles). He visited the area and has championed the preservation of Romania’s rural heritage. He owns a beautifully restored 18th-century cluster of houses. These houses are in the nearby village of Viscri, just 45 km from Sighișoara. You can rent rooms there and experience traditional Transylvanian village life.
What you must see
The Clock Tower
The Clock Tower is the symbol of Sighisoara. Standing tall above the city, it is much more than just a historic landmark—it’s a guardian of time and stories that stretch back centuries. It began being built at the end of 13thcentury, though the original structure was tragically destroyed by fire. What you see today, with its imposing silhouette and graceful spire, was rebuilt in 1676.
There are many things that make this tower special, but the main attraction is the clock with the puppets inside. These seven figures are more than mere decorations—they are steeped in rich symbolism and represent each day of the week. Yet, their meaning runs deeper, echoing ancient beliefs. The seven puppets also embody the seven classical planets, the seven metals known to alchemists, and the seven gods revered in antiquity.
In the photo here, you see the puppet for Friday—a graceful female figure representing Aphrodite. She was known to the Romans as Venus, the goddess of love, beauty, and desire. She stands elegantly, gazing into a mirror, the timeless symbol of self-reflection and vanity, but also of self-awareness and feminine mystique. At her side, a small attendant holds the mirror up to her face, emphasizing not only her elevated status, but also the way beauty, as an ideal, was once considered sacred and even divine.
Above her head, she wears the ancient alchemical symbol for copper (♀)—a circle with a small cross beneath it. This is also the very symbol we use today to denote the feminine. In alchemy and mythology, copper was considered the metal of Venus, linked to passion, sensuality, harmony, and artistry. Its warm reddish glow, pliability, and natural sheen made it a material of both ornament and meaning. This connection between goddess and metal runs deep in Western symbolic tradition, where the planets, gods, and metals were all believed to influence human life through subtle forces.
Each day of the week on the Clock Tower is represented by a different puppet figure, following a system rooted in ancient Babylonian and Greco-Roman cosmology. The seven classical planets—Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, and Saturn—each governed a day, a deity, and a metal. Friday belongs to Venus, both the planet and the goddess, a day traditionally linked with pleasure, beauty, affection, and emotional connection.
In this intricate blend of astronomy, mythology, and medieval craftsmanship, the Sighișoara Clock Tower becomes far more than a timekeeping device. It becomes a symbolic atlas—one that reflects how our ancestors understood the rhythm of the cosmos and our place within it.
There is a window glass through which you can see the mechanism that is moving the clock. Watching these puppets rotate with the days is like watching the old world whisper its truths through movement and meaning.
History Museum of Sighisoara
The Clock Tower isn’t just the most iconic structure in Sighișoara. It i’s also home to the History Museum, a small but fascinating collection that offers a glimpse into the town’s rich and layered past. To reach the museum, you’ll need to climb a steep, narrow wooden staircase inside the tower. It’s a bit of a squeeze—especially when people are coming down as you’re going up. So mind your step, take your time, and don’t be afraid to press yourself to the side to let others pass. The climb might leave you slightly breathless, but the reward is worth it!
Inside, the museum is spread across several creaky-floored levels, with exhibits that feel intimate and personal. There are scale models of the city, showing the old citadel’s layout, defensive structures, and historic architecture.
Glass cases hold everyday objects once used by Sighișoara’s townspeople—from tools and trade items to ceramics, clothing details, and other domestic artifacts. There’s also a section with archaeological finds, some dating back to Roman and Dacian times.
One of the exhibits that really stuck with me was an old doctor’s kit, complete with terrifyingly sharp instruments and questionable remedies from a very different medical era. It made me instantly grateful for modern healthcare—I could almost hear my 21st-century immune system sighing in relief.
The Panoramic Views from the Clock Tower
As you climb to the upper levels of the History Museum, the exhibits slowly fall away, replaced by shafts of natural light and the promise of open sky. Eventually, you step through a narrow wooden doorway onto the clock tower’s viewing balcony. It is a wraparound platform perched high above the medieval town.
From up here, the world opens wide. The view is truly breathtaking in every direction. To the south, the town unfolds in a mosaic of red-tiled rooftops, pastel facades, and winding cobbled streets. To the north, the eye stretches toward the distant, undulating hills of Transylvania—lush, green, and dotted with church steeples and old farmhouses. You’ll spot the fortified walls below, tracing the perimeter of the citadel like a protective embrace, and perhaps even hear the faint echo of footsteps from the square.
Everything feels suspended in time. It’s one of those rare moments in travel when you realize you’re not just seeing a place—you’re feeling it.
It’s a beautiful way to end your visit to the Clock Tower—on a literal and figurative high note.
The Church on the Hill
This was a wild ride—I started counting the stairs, full of determination… and then gave up halfway through! Turns out, the journey to the Church on the Hill means conquering nearly 300 covered wooden steps, known as the Scholars’ Stairs. Originally built in the 17th century, the covered stairs were designed to protect schoolchildren and churchgoers from the harsh winters as they made their daily climb. And yes, there’s still a school at the top! Probably the kids are making that trek every morning, likely with more grace and less gasping than I did! Imagine how fit their little legs must be!
At the summit, your reward is twofold: a sweeping view of Sighișoara from above, and the quiet majesty of the Church on the Hill. The church is a Gothic gem that feels both imposing and serene. Built in stages between the 14th and 16th centuries, it’s one of the oldest surviving churches in Transylvania and a beautiful example of Saxon Gothic architecture. The stone exterior is simple and unassuming, but inside you’ll find faded frescoes, carved wooden pews, and centuries of whispered prayers held in the cool air.
What truly sets it apart, though, is that it houses the only ancient crypt in Transylvania. Beneath the church lies a burial chamber where members of the town’s elite were laid to rest—clergy, nobles, and prominent families whose legacies are literally built into the foundations of the hill. This is not just a climb. It’s a pilgrimage into Sighișoara’s soul—upward, through creaking wood, past laughing students, and into a sacred place where time slows down.
Wandering the Colorful Streets
One of the true joys of exploring Sighișoara is simply wandering its colorful streets—a patchwork of pastel facades, steep stone alleys, and storybook charm at every corner. The citadel itself is compact, so you won’t be walking for miles. The buildings are painted in soft shades of butter yellow, dusty rose, mint green, and sky blue, with peeling shutters and flower boxes spilling over with geraniums. The streets are paved with uneven cobblestones, adding texture and authenticity—but also a challenge for the wrong kind of footwear.
Trust me: leave the high heels at home! You’ll want sturdy, comfortable walking shoes to handle the hills, dips, and centuries-old stones. The surfaces are charmingly irregular—beautiful to look at, but tricky underfoot.
These streets don’t just invite photographs—they invite lingering. Sit on a low step, trace your fingers along a weathered wall, or just stand still and let the silence of the old town wrap around you. It’s quiet, peaceful, and intimate—like stepping into a painting you don’t want to leave.
The Sighișoara Medieval Festival
IIf you happen to visit Sighișoara in late July, you’re in for something truly special. Each summer, the town hosts the Sighișoara Medieval Festival, one of Romania’s most beloved and colorful cultural events. For one weekend, the citadel transforms into a living time capsule, where history comes alive in the cobbled streets, and the past doesn’t just echo—it sings, dances, and shouts.
The festival has been running since the early 1990s, and it draws both locals and visitors from all over Europe. Artisans, actors, musicians, and history enthusiasts descend upon the old citadel. They wear elaborate medieval costumes. Think knights in armor, nobles in brocade gowns, peasants in linen tunics, and monks shuffling by with scrolls in hand.
Throughout the town, you’ll find live performances of traditional instruments like the flute, mandolin, lute, and tambourine. Public squares transform into stages for open-air theater. They feature reenactments of medieval trials and convictions. The performances are completed with theatrical judges, dramatic accusations, and plenty of flair.
In the shadow of the clock tower, you’ll find blacksmiths hammering iron, woodworkers carving spoons and swords, and vendors selling handmade jewelry, herbal remedies, and traditional snacks. There are also jousting shows, fire-dancers, street performers, and even medieval-style games and archery for children.
What makes the Sighișoara Medieval Festival particularly magical is the setting itself. This isn’t a modern town trying to recreate the past—this is a place where the past never quite left. Surrounded by centuries-old towers, walls, and cobblestone alleys, the atmosphere is nothing short of enchanting.
Whether you’re a history lover, a fan of folklore, or just someone who wants to experience something unforgettable, this festival is a vibrant, theatrical plunge into another world. Come with curiosity, stay for the magic, and don’t forget your camera—or your sense of wonder.
Where to stay
We stayed at a Domain called Dracula Danes, that is only 6 km away from Sighisoara. From the accommodations, to the food and horses, this was one of the most wonderful experiences we had in the area. The rooms are beautiful, clean. Our room had a fireplace, so if you’re going with family or for a romantic trip, that might be a nice touch.
If you feel like walking, the domain has a beautiful park. There is also a small zoo that kids might enjoy and a pool.
At Danes the love of nature and animals comes together. These people love their horses and you can tell! The equestrian center at Daneș is a peaceful retreat nestled in the rolling green hills. Here you’ll find beautifully kept stables, an immaculate manege (riding arena), and a community of people who truly cherish their horses. Every detail—from the well-groomed manes to the polished tack —reflects both professionalism and deep affection.
Whether you’re an experienced rider or just someone who enjoys being close to animals, this is a wonderful place to spend a few hours. You can ride through the countryside, visit the stables, or simply admire the quiet strength and elegance of the horses. The setting is tranquil and the air smells of hay and earth. The connection between people and animals here feels genuine and grounding.
The Fancy Carriage Ride I Didn’t Know I Needed
You can also rent a horse drawn carriage to enjoy the landscapes together with your family or friends. We did both, horse back riding ……
And the carriage! Not just any old wooden cart, but a fancy carriage with actual brakes. Brakes! I don’t know why that amazed me so much, but it felt like riding in the limousine of the horse world! I even got a quick lesson in how to steer the horse, which, in my case, mostly meant trying not to end up in a ditch while pretending I had any idea what I was doing.
The horse was a giant, gentle beast—the kind they use at Oktoberfest to haul carts brimming with beer barrels. Majestic, strong, and (thankfully) very patient. I forgot my horse’s name, but I started riding with a stranger and we came back friends…
At the Danes restaurant, the food is yummy. You can try some authentic Romanian food. This, in the picture, is called bulz, a dish with polenta, cheese, and sausage. Or….you can try more common dishes, made with a special touch, like burgers. Your choice!
All that being said, I hope you do go visit Sighisoara and you do go by Dracula Danes. You’ll have a wonderful experience. And if you have questions while you’re planning your trip, I’m here. Ask! Below are some tips for your visit.
Tips for Visiting Sighișoara
1. Wear comfortable shoes (seriously).
The cobblestone streets are beautiful but uneven—and sometimes steep. Leave the heels behind and opt for supportive walking shoes. Your ankles will thank you.
2. Bring cash (lei).
Many small shops, cafés, and local vendors still prefer cash. ATMs are available, but it’s good to have some Romanian lei on hand for snacks, souvenirs, or tips.
3. Visit during the summer—but expect crowds.
July is especially popular thanks to the Medieval Festival, which is magical but busy. If you want the atmosphere without the crowds, try June or early September.
4. Climb the Clock Tower early.
The view from the top is spectacular, but the stairs are narrow and it can get crowded. Try going in the morning when it’s quieter and cooler.
5. Don’t skip the Church on the Hill.
Yes, it’s a climb—300 covered wooden steps!—but it’s worth it for the views, the peaceful cemetery, and the unique crypt (the only ancient one in Transylvania).
6. Try traditional Transylvanian food.
Look for local dishes like ciorbă (sour soup), sarmale (stuffed cabbage rolls), or papanasi (fried donuts with sour cream and jam). And don’t skip the plum brandy—țuică—just maybe not before the stairs.
7. Visit nearby villages.
Places like Daneș (for horseback riding) and Viscri (Prince Charles’s favorite spot) are worth the detour. You’ll see the rural charm that makes Transylvania so special.
8. Take your time.
Sighișoara isn’t about rushing. It’s about wandering, lingering, and looking up—at weathered rooftops, wrought-iron signs, and crumbling towers. Give yourself time to get lost in its magic.
9. Watch your step… and your head.
Some streets are steep, some doorways are low, and some corners are tight. It’s all part of the charm—but a bump on the head or a twisted ankle can kill the vibe.
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© Andrada Costoiu and a-passion4life.com, 2019 . Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this site’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Andrada Costoiu and a-passion4life.com, 2019 with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
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