Sibiu Private Day Trip from Bucharest – Cozia Monastery & Old Town

Summary

Private Sibiu Tour: Explore Piata Mare & Climb the Cathedral Tower

You’ll walk medieval streets in Sibiu, climb cathedral towers for sweeping views, and pause at Cozia Monastery’s peaceful grounds—all with a friendly local guide who knows every shortcut and story.

What’s the experience like?

The drive out of Bucharest started early—there’s something about leaving the city before sunrise that makes you feel like you’re sneaking away on an adventure. Our guide, Andrei, kept us awake with stories about old Wallachia as we wound through the hills. By mid-morning, we pulled up at Cozia Monastery. The air smelled faintly of pine and incense—someone must’ve just finished morning prayers. The Olt River runs right beside it, and you can hear the water if you stand close to the stone walls. It’s quiet here, except for the odd crow or two. I remember touching the cool stones—over 600 years old—and thinking how many hands had done the same.

Sibiu’s historical center feels like a movie set, but it’s real life—cobblestone streets, pastel facades, and those “eyes” in the rooftops watching you. We wandered into Piata Mare (the Great Square), where locals sip coffee at tiny tables outside Café Wien. There was a street musician playing accordion near the Brukenthal Palace; his hat was half-full of coins and he nodded when we passed by. Our guide pointed out details I’d have missed: secret passageways between buildings, plaques marking old guilds, even a bakery that’s been here since before World War II.

If you’re up for it (and don’t mind a bit of a workout), climbing the Evangelical Cathedral tower is worth every one of those 192 steps. My legs were shaky at the top, but wow—the view stretches over red roofs all the way to the Fagaras Mountains. I snapped a photo just as church bells rang noon; it echoed across town and made everyone in our group smile. Coming down, my hands brushed against centuries-old railings—worn smooth by thousands before me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sibiu and Cozia Monastery Tour

• Visit Cozia Monastery
• Explore Sibiu Historical Center
• Climb Sibiu Lutheran Cathedral Tower

Top questions

How long does this private Sibiu tour take?

The full day trip usually lasts around 12 hours including travel time from Bucharest to Sibiu and back. Your guide will adjust timing based on your pace.

Is there much walking involved?

Yes, there’s some walking in Sibiu’s old town and climbing stairs at the cathedral tower—but you can always take breaks or skip parts if needed.

Are meals included?

No meals are included but your guide can recommend great local spots for lunch or coffee in Sibiu.

Can we customize stops during our tour?

Absolutely! The itinerary is flexible—you can spend more or less time at each site or add extra stops along the way.

What’s included

Your own private car (or minibus) with an English-speaking licensed guide/driver for just your group; all taxes; fuel; parking; road tolls; flexible itinerary changes even after starting out; service animals welcome; infant seats available if you need them.