Tanners' Tower Turnul Tabacarilor - a tall brick tower sitting on top of a lush green hillside
1 / 10

Tanners' Tower Turnul Tabacarilor

4.6
·491k reviews·Sighișoara, Romania

Step into a living fairytale in Sighisoara, a UNESCO-listed medieval citadel with colorful houses and timeless charm.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Tanners' Tower Turnul Tabacarilor - a tall brick tower sitting on top of a lush green hillside

Tanners' Tower Turnul Tabacarilor

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step into a living fairytale in Sighisoara, a UNESCO-listed medieval citadel with colorful houses and timeless charm.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"It's like walking straight into a picture book! Sighisoara is so cute. TikTok"

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes!

Cobblestone streets and hills are no joke. Prioritize comfort for exploring the citadel all day long.

📸 Golden Hour Magic

Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most enchanting light and fewer crowds. Perfect for photos!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Clock Tower

Clock Tower

Citadel Square

The iconic Clock Tower offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into medieval life. Climb to the top for a panoramic vista of the colorful rooftops.

Vlad Dracul House

Vlad Dracul House

Near Clock Tower

Step into the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration for Dracula. Explore its history and the legends that surround it.

Scholars' Stairs

Scholars' Stairs

Connecting Lower and Upper Town

A covered wooden staircase dating back to 1642, leading to the Church on the Hill. It's a unique architectural marvel.

Tanners' Tower

Tanners' Tower

Northern Wall

One of the original defensive towers, offering a peek into the city's medieval fortifications and the crafts of the past.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Cobblestones

Sighisoara's medieval citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage site, meaning you'll be walking on uneven cobblestones. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring its charming, winding streets and historic towers. Be prepared for hills and steps as you ascend to soak in the panoramic views.

Timing is Everything

To truly capture the magic of Sighisoara, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons or early/late in the day. This helps avoid peak crowds and allows for a more immersive experience, especially when capturing those picturesque, timeless photos.

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Golden hour light, fewer tourists
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Guys it’s like walking straight into a picture book! Sighisoara is so cute 🥹 #sighisoara #sighisoararomania #transylvania #romaniatiktok #travelromania #europetravel #traveleurope #europeansummer #eurotrip #traveltok
@tatianatravels
31.1K likes • 362.7K views

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes!

Cobblestone streets and hills are no joke. Prioritize comfort for exploring the citadel all day long. TikTok

📸 Golden Hour Magic

Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most enchanting light and fewer crowds. Perfect for photos! TikTok

Autumn in Sighișoara🍂🎃🪵🌻 #fallingforfall #fallautumn #sighisoara #sighisoararomania #exploreromania #transylvania #sighisoaratranylvania #fallaesthetic #fallmood #fall #falliscoming #fallfits #fallstyle #scandifalllooks #scandifornianstyle #fal2024 #fall24 #moody #pinterestaesthetics #pinterestvibe #thatgirlaesthetic #cityliving #fallstyleinspo @Romania @Sighisoara
@carmenvasiuu
13.3K likes • 136.3K views
#AC/DC-Thunderstruk!Remember Sighisoara -2022!🎸🤘🤘🤘
@chitaristuldinpod
12.8K likes • 227.4K views

🕰️ Climb the Clock Tower

The views from the top are incredible! Worth the climb for a bird's-eye perspective of Sighisoara. TikTok

🧛‍♂️ Embrace the Dracula Lore

Learn about Vlad the Impaler's connection to the town. It adds a fascinating layer to your visit. TikTok

🧛‍♂️ Já imaginou se o Drácula fosse real? Pois ele foi… e sua história é ainda mais sombria do que a ficção! 🏰 Em Sighisoara, na Romênia, conheci o berço de Vlad, o Impalador — o príncipe que inspirou a lenda. ⚔️ Ele empalava inimigos para defender seu território e ficou conhecido como um dos líderes mais temidos da história. 🩸 Apesar de brutal, ele também era admirado por muitos como herói nacion...
@karinaboyce
10.2K likes • 60.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear Comfy Shoes!

Cobblestone streets and hills are no joke. Prioritize comfort for exploring the citadel all day long. TikTok

📸 Golden Hour Magic

Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most enchanting light and fewer crowds. Perfect for photos! TikTok

🕰️ Climb the Clock Tower

The views from the top are incredible! Worth the climb for a bird's-eye perspective of Sighisoara. TikTok

🧛‍♂️ Embrace the Dracula Lore

Learn about Vlad the Impaler's connection to the town. It adds a fascinating layer to your visit. TikTok

🗺️ Get Lost (Intentionally!)

Wander through the narrow alleys; you'll discover hidden gems and picturesque corners. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Sighisoara's incredibly well-preserved medieval atmosphere, often describing it as stepping back in time. The colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and historic towers create a magical and photogenic setting. Some find the town can feel a bit touristy during peak hours, and the cobblestones require comfortable footwear.

What People Like

Authentic medieval atmosphere
Photogenic colorful buildings
Historic towers and streets

What People Dislike

Crowded during peak times
Uneven cobblestone paths

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Sighisoara is accessible by train from major Romanian cities like Bucharest, Brasov, and Sibiu. If driving, it's about a 3-hour journey from Brasov. Many visitors also include it in a larger road trip through Transylvania. TikTok

Yes, the medieval citadel is very walkable. However, be prepared for cobblestone streets and inclines. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the town on foot. TikTok

The best way is to simply wander! Allow yourself to get lost in the charming alleys and discover hidden courtyards. The main attractions are all within easy walking distance. TikTok

Parking is available outside the citadel walls. It's recommended to park your car and explore the historic center on foot to fully appreciate its atmosphere. TikTok

Yes, Sighisoara can be visited as a day trip, especially if you're staying in nearby Brasov. However, to truly soak in the atmosphere, an overnight stay is recommended. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there's no entrance fee to walk around the medieval citadel itself. However, individual attractions within the citadel, like the Clock Tower museum, do require tickets. TikTok

Opening hours vary for each attraction. The Clock Tower and museums typically open around 9-10 AM and close around 5-6 PM. It's best to check specific hours for each site you plan to visit. TikTok

Admission to the Clock Tower museum typically costs a few Romanian Lei (RON). Prices are subject to change, but it's generally very affordable. TikTok

Sighisoara hosts several events, including the Medieval Festival in July and the Pumpkin Celebration in autumn. These events add a vibrant atmosphere to the town. TikTok

For most individual attractions within Sighisoara, tickets are usually purchased on-site. There isn't a central online ticketing system for the entire citadel. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The entire citadel is photogenic! Key spots include the Clock Tower views, the colorful houses in the main square, the Scholars' Stairs, and the narrow cobblestone alleys. TikTok+1

Early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) offers the best light and fewer people, making for magical shots. Sunrise over the rooftops is particularly stunning. TikTok

Generally, photography is allowed in public areas. Some indoor exhibits within museums might have restrictions, so it's always good to check signage. TikTok

A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is great for capturing both wide cityscapes and details. A wide-angle lens is useful for the narrow streets. TikTok

Drone usage is often restricted in historic city centers and UNESCO sites due to privacy and preservation concerns. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Sighisoara offers a range of dining options, from traditional Romanian cuisine to international dishes. Many restaurants are located within the citadel. TikTok

Look for sarmale (cabbage rolls), mămăligă (polenta), mici (grilled ground meat rolls), and hearty soups. Many restaurants offer these local specialties. TikTok

While traditional Romanian cuisine can be meat-heavy, many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's advisable to ask your server. TikTok

Dining prices can vary. Restaurants within the citadel might be slightly more expensive than those outside. You can find affordable meals, especially if you opt for local eateries. TikTok

Restaurant von Graf is highly recommended, especially if you're visiting during the Medieval Festival. It's known for its great atmosphere and food. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Sighisoara offers a magical experience for families, turning history into an adventure. The medieval citadel feels like a fairytale setting, with its colorful houses and winding streets perfect for little explorers. The Clock Tower is a must-visit; kids will love climbing to the top for panoramic views and imagining themselves as lookouts. TikTok+1

Consider visiting during the Medieval Festival if your dates align, as it brings the town to life with costumed performers, jousting, and crafts that will captivate children. The Vlad Dracul House can also spark their imagination about knights and legends, though it might be more engaging for older children. Remember to pack comfortable shoes for everyone, as the cobblestones can be tricky for tiny feet. TikTok+1

📸 Photographers' Paradise

For photographers, Sighisoara is a dream destination. The well-preserved medieval architecture, vibrant facades, and narrow cobblestone alleys provide endless opportunities for stunning shots. The Clock Tower offers a fantastic vantage point for panoramic cityscapes, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. TikTok+1

Explore the Scholars' Stairs for unique architectural perspectives and capture the charm of the Tanners' Tower and other defensive structures. The town's compact nature means you can cover a lot of ground, but take your time to find those hidden courtyards and atmospheric details. Visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or autumn) will help you avoid crowds and capture the town in its most serene beauty. TikTok

🧛‍♂️ History & Legend Enthusiasts

Sighisoara is a pilgrimage site for those fascinated by medieval history and the legend of Dracula. As the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the town offers a direct link to the historical figure who inspired Bram Stoker's iconic vampire. Visiting the Vlad Dracul House and learning about the history of the region provides a deep dive into this dark and compelling past. TikTok+1

Beyond the Dracula lore, the entire citadel is a living museum. Explore the guild towers like the Tanners' Tower, each with its own story of defense and craftsmanship. The Clock Tower museum offers a comprehensive overview of Sighisoara's rich history, from its Saxon origins to its medieval prominence. The Scholars' Stairs and the Church on the Hill further enrich the historical narrative, making Sighisoara a truly immersive experience for history buffs. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Medieval Citadel: A Living Museum

Sighisoara's citadel is one of the last inhabited medieval citadels in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its colorful houses, cobblestone streets, and imposing defensive towers transport visitors back in time. The Tanners' Tower, Blacksmiths' Tower, and Tailors' Tower are remnants of the city's guild-based defense system, each named after the craftspeople who maintained them. Walking through these ancient walls feels like stepping onto a movie set, with every corner offering a new, picturesque vista. TikTok+1

Many visitors are captivated by the timeless atmosphere of Sighisoara. The lack of modern intrusions within the citadel walls contributes to its authentic charm. It's a place where history is not just read about but felt through the worn stones and ancient architecture. The seasonal beauty, from autumn foliage to summer blooms, adds another layer to its appeal, making it a year-round destination for history buffs and photographers alike. TikTok

For those interested in the Dracula connection, Sighisoara is famously the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler. While the historical figure was a complex ruler, his legend has cemented Sighisoara's place in popular culture. Visiting the Vlad Dracul House offers a tangible link to this dark history, adding an element of intrigue to the exploration of this remarkable medieval town. TikTok+1

Navigating Sighisoara's History and Legends

Sighisoara's history is deeply intertwined with its strategic importance as a fortified town. Founded by Saxon colonists in the 12th century, it thrived as a center for trade and craftsmanship. The defensive walls and towers were crucial for protecting its inhabitants and its wealth. Each tower served a specific purpose, not only for defense but also as a symbol of the guilds that contributed to the city's prosperity. TikTok

The Scholars' Stairs, a covered wooden staircase built in 1642, is a unique architectural feature that connects the lower town to the Church on the Hill. It was originally built to protect schoolchildren and churchgoers from the elements and potential attackers during winter. Climbing these stairs offers a sense of the daily lives and challenges faced by the town's residents centuries ago. TikTok

Beyond its historical significance, Sighisoara is shrouded in legends, most notably its association with Vlad the Impaler. While the historical accuracy of his birth in Sighisoara is debated, the town embraces this connection, making it a draw for fans of gothic lore. The Clock Tower, a central landmark, houses a museum that delves into the town's history, including its connection to Vlad Dracul. TikTok+1

You may also like

1 of 2