This post may have affiliate links. When you click on a link we receive a small commission. This is at no extra cost to you. See Our Affliate Policy for more info.
Planning a trip to the world’s spookiest medieval town? You know the birthplace of Dracula himself! I am talking about Sighisoara, Romania. And if you are going to visit, you need to check out the 7 best spooky things to do in Sighisoara in 2023!
Now let me ask you, have you ever heard of Transylvania? I thought Transylvania was a make-believe place dreamt up by the creative cartoon makers. Transylvania is real, and it’s a vast region in Romania. And one of those towns within the area is Sighisoara!
Sighisoara is a teeny tiny village town and creepy as hell. It is one of the best places for all you thrill-seeking vampire chasers!
7 Best Spooky Things To Do in Sighisoara
Short List of the Best Things to Do in Sighisoara, Romania
👻 Visit the birthplace of Dracula! Go on an all inclusive tour around Sighisora including the house of Vlad the Implaer!
👻 Go on a 2 hour city walking tour of Sighisoara! Walk the cobbled streets and marvel at the historic buildings in Sighisoara with a professional guide!
👻 Join a day trip to Viscri Foritified Church! You can either rent a car or if you are visiting Brasvo you can join a group tour from there!
#1. Visit the Birthplace of Dracula, aka Vlad the Impaler.
One of the top things to do in the spooky town of Sighisora is to visit the Vlad Dracul House. Vlad III, aka Dracula, was born in the year 1431 and died in 1477. Ruler of Wallachia between the years of 1448 and 1477, and died in battle. The reputation for Vlad’s cruel torturous punishments and public executions earned him the name vampire count Dracula.
According to Wikipedia, this did not serve as the inspiration for the novel Dracula by Bram Stoker in 1897. In other theories, the inspiration was drawn from Irish mythology, pointing to a character named Abhartach.
Today you can visit “casa vlad dracul” the childhood home of Vlad III located in citadel square, in the center of the old town of Sighisoara. Visiting this house is very poorly reviewed on TripAdvisor.
And I would have to agree. The experience could be vastly improved. There is a restaurant on-site and upstairs, a room decorated in red curtains, and an empty coffin. And that’s it!
As cheesy and lame as it is, you still have to go. My hope is over time, and when tourism increases, more attention will be paid to upgrading this exhibit.
#2. Climb Up The Sighisoara Clock Tower For A Great View
I have been fortunate in my life to have traveled to numerous places. The clock tower in Sighisoara was one of the most impressive sites I have ever seen. It has a very distinctive look that goes along with the overall spooky vibe of the town.
Once you see it for yourself, you will understand why it’s one of the most popular things to do in Sighisoara. There is a small fee for entrance to climb the old wooden stairs to the peak of this clock tower. At the top, you will have spectacular views of the colorful buildings in the town and the surrounding area of the Romanian countryside.
Built-in the 14th century, this tower was once the entry point to the medieval citadel. In 1964 the clock on top of the tower underwent restorations and functions to this day. In 1999 the whole area was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Free Google Map of Sighisoara
#3. Take the Covered Staircase to the Church on the Hill
This church, as in the name, is on a hill. To get to the church on top of the hill, you will climb the “covered stairs.” As it sounds, the covered stairs are the massive tunneled staircase. The journey to the church will surely take some of your energy, but it’s worth it.
When you step into this Romanian church, you feel like you are walking into a piece of history. The Gothic church formerly replaced the Romanesque Basilica between the 14th and 15th centuries. It became a Lutheran church in 1547, serving the German Saxon inhabitants.
The cemetery contains tombstones from the 1600 and 1700s of the mayors, friars, and guild masters. There is the best view of the main square from atop the church on the hill.
If you visit in October climbing the covered stairway will be as spooky as you would expect.
#4. Sighisoara Citadel
The Citadel of Sighisoara is one of the best places to visit in Sighisoara. It is a collection of medieval buildings all within the walls of the Sighisora Citadel.
There are several towers, such as the Bootmakers Tower, Tailors Tower, Blacksmith Tower, and Tinsmiths’ Tower.
There are a couple of ways to see this citadel. You can self-tour by buying tickets directly on-site or joining a tour. The best way to see the Citadel of Sighisoara is by joining a group tour, as it’s a great way to meet other travelers. Also, you get an in-depth history lesson from a local.
It’s the perfect place to visit in October as it sets the mood for all things spooky in Sighisoara.
5. Shop The Local Souvenir Shops
Sure, this isn’t exactly a “spooky” thing to do. But I added visiting the gift shops to the list of 7 spooky things to do in Sighisoara because I like to shop! What will scare you is just how CHEAP everything is!
On the main street of the old town, you can find little souvenir shops selling everything from Dracula-themed gifts to high-quality goods. I bought some of the most beautiful handmade pottery from Sighisoara. The prices in Romania are simply unbeatable.
Since the country has been benefiting more and more each year from tourism, I do expect prices will increase. As of today, it remains one of the least expensive places I have ever visited.
If you are looking to go somewhere to stretch your dollar, then Romania is the place for you.
#6. City Walking Tour & Dracula Home Visit
This tour is perfect for you if you are only visiting Sighisoara for a few hours. Embrace the history of this spooky village and join this city walking tour & Dracula home visit.
This is the fastest way to see all the main attractions, with a knowledgeable guide! The entrance fees are covered by the cost of this tour. See all 7 spooky things to do in Sighisoara in one shot!
#7. Visit the All The Spooky Churches in Sighisoara
The previous six activities are the most popular things to do when visiting Sighisoara. If you have a car or have time to do day trips, here is an idea for visiting churches inside and outside the historic centre of Sighisoara.
Viscri Fortified Church
Visiting the Viscri Fortified Church in Romania is like taking a step back in time. This 11th-century UNESCO World Heritage Site is an impressive sight to behold, complete with its old-world charm and tradition.
The beautiful white walls of the church are topped with red clay roof tiles, making it look like something out of a fairytale. Inside, the church boasts ornately painted frescoes and beautiful stained glass windows that help tell the story of Romania’s rich history.
I visited this church on a day tour from Brasov, but you can easily do it yourself with a rental car. It was the best place to with a tour guide because you get a little mini history lesson.
If you plan to travel by car it takes just under 1 hour to reach the church. Since rental cars are affordable in Romania, I think you should rent a car to fully experience Brasov, Romania, and beyond.
At the time of my visit, I didn’t see any public transit options. It is worth researching this further closer to your arrival.
Holy Trinity Church
Standing tall since 1445, this spooky church is the oldest remaining Orthodox church in Transylvania. Its Neo-Byzantine architecture and colorful frescoes make it a sight to behold – but be sure to bring your camera as it’s a long way up those steep stairs!
With its unique history and rich culture, this is one place that no traveler should miss. Once you’ve ascended to the top of the church tower, you’ll be rewarded with an incredible view of the old town below – truly breathtaking
Monastery Church
The Church of the Dominican Monastery, AKA Monastery Church is located in the ciy center of Sighisoara.
You can expect to find one of the oldest churches in Romania, dating back to 1515. The Monastery Church’s interior is adorned with beautiful paintings and frescoes from the Baroque era. There are also several intricate sculptures that tell stories about Jesus’ life on earth.
The highlight of the Monastery Church is its organ, one of the most powerful organs in Romania. Every Sunday, you can hear live classical and spiritual music being played on this majestic instrument. By attending a service here, you will get to experience the rich history and culture that Sighisoara has to offer.
Best Time To Visit Sighisoara
The best time to visit Sighisoara is when I visited Romania, in October! During the days, it was a bit cloudy, adding a layer of gloom. The nights were fresh and crisp, smelling of wood-burning stoves. There is no better time to visit Transylvania than in the autumn!
If you can’t make a trip in the fall, then consider visiting Sighisora between May through September. The winter is very cold and a lot of the tourist attractions will be closed.
Romania is a beautiful place that will become more and more of a popular tourist destination.
Where Should You Stay Solo in Sighisoara
If you are looking for a fantastic and reasonably-priced hotel in Romania, you are in luck! I stayed in the most delightful boutique-style hotel in the center of the old town for less than $100 a night! If you are looking to treat yourself, you should consider staying at Fronius Residence!
The hotel serves a delicious breakfast, included in the room price. A special thanks to the staff at the hotel, they were exceptional! The staff member knew I needed help getting to the bus station. She not only offered to drive me but helped me buy the ticket.
❤︎ Check Rates & Availability at Fronius Residence!
Is Sighisoara Safe for Solo Female Travelers?
I often felt safe when traveling solo all over Romania. The language barrier can be an issue, though. Not everyone will speak English, which can sometimes make some aspects of the journey frustrating.
I did not experience any theft or shady people trying to take advantage of me as a tourist. If you search online, you find that it does happen, but evil people are everywhere. Just consider your surroundings, act appropriately, and you will be fine.
Leave your flashy expensive purses at home. The advice I give to all travelers is just to blend in. My travel style is plain Jane, boring black clothes, and comfortable shoes. If you are walking around with a Fendi bag, making it evident that you are a tourist, you can attract attention. When I am solo traveling, I want to avoid that.
Transportation To and From Sighisoara
I am going to be really honest with you here. The public transport in this country is far from convenient or somewhat function-able. Be prepared to deal with many inconveniences when it comes to public transit.
There was no reasonable train transit option from Sighisoara to Sibiu, but there was a “bus.” I have the bus in quotations, as it was not a bus but an oversized minivan.
Right before the “bus” arrived, people started swarming in a little circle and getting pushy. Once the door to the van opened, we all crammed in. It was like riding in a tight sardine can that smelled of cigarettes and stale beer.
It was an awkward ride, and there was no place for luggage. My carry-on suitcase sat on my lap for about 2 1/2 hours. The trip itself was pretty chill, driving through the countryside. There is little chance of traffic unless there is an accident.
The drive was reasonably picturesque, with lots of green valleys and small villages in the distance. If I were to make this trip all over again, I would rent a car. Hands down, definitely look into it.
🚗 Best Car Rental Company in Romania
Most Important Things to Know for Sighisoara
Quick Facts:
Currency: RON Romanian Leu
Average Summer Temperatures: 26 / 12 degrees Celsius
Average Winter Temperatures: 1 / -7 degrees Celcius
Language Spoken: Romanian
Closest Airport: Sibiu ( 1 1/2 hours)
Crime Report: according to Numbeo
Medieval Festival Sighisoara
One of the all-time best things to do in Sighisoara is going to the Medieval Festival. Held in late July, you can expect it to be one of the more authentic experiences you can have in Romania.
The summer months are a great time to visit Romania in general! With tourism at its high in the summer, you can expect there to be the most activities and festivals.
Typically the Sighișoara Medieval Festival or Festivalul Sighişoara Medievală takes place in late July! In 2023, the Medieval Festival is held from July 28th through July 30th.
Get a look at what life was like in medieval times at this festival! There are plenty of things to do such as:
- Archery
- Pottery making, carpentry, ironmongery, jewelry making
- Watch the street theatre plays and medieval-style fighting
- Exhibitions
People get really excited about this festival and travel from all around the world to take part! I would say if visiting medieval cities is a passion of yours, don’t miss the Festivalul Sighişoara Medievală!
READ MORE: Medieval city of Lviv, Ukraine – Solo Female Travel
Best Things to Do Near Sighisoara
Another hidden gem in Transylvania is most certainly, Sibiu! Full of medieval charm and dark, seedy history, this place is a must! Transportation around Romania isn’t as developed as I would personally hope. So doing plenty of research is key here!
If you want to continue exploring more Romanian villages, then visit Brasov! Here are 16 fun things to do in Brasov! From here it is easy to visit Bran Castle & Peles Castle! Bran Castle is the castle in which Bram Stroker’s Dracula movie was filmed. Peles Castle reminded me of something out of a fairytale!
Final Thoughts on the Best Spooky Things to Do in Sighisoara
Visiting Sighisoara was one of the best travel experiences of my life. I felt as though I was stepping back in time and visiting one of the world’s best-kept secrets.
The people were friendly, kind, and welcoming. I felt as though it was a safe place to travel alone and I would recommend anyone that who gets excited about the ideas of vampires, haunted castles and medieval times must make a stop here in their life!
Sighisoara FAQ’s
Your best option to get to Sighisoara is to fly into either Sibiu or Bucharest and rent a car. There are very limited public transportation options to and from Sihisoara, but it is possible if you are not interested in renting a car.
You really don’t need more than one day and night in Sighisoara to see the main attractions. I stayed in Sighisoara for 2 nights and I left feeling satisfied with all that I was able to see.
Sighisoara is a little bit touristy but in my opinion worth visiting. The village itself it perfectly preserved and one of the spookiest little towns I’ve ever visited. Tourism in Romania is still up and coming, so I guarantee it won’t be overcrowded.
Stay In Touch
Pin It For Later
Love the quick facts section, very helpful! Thanks for putting all this together, seems like a spooky place!
Sighisoara looks like a great fun (if slightly spooky) area to explore. The ‘bus’ ride in does sound like a bit of a nightmare, so thanks for the tip! I would really love to visit Romania… I’ll be sure to hire a car when we do!
Ahh I love places like this! I especially love the looks of that hotel! I’m definitely adding this place to my list and I’ll save this post for when I go ? love your photos!
Thanks! I took these pictures with an iPhone a couple of years ago! I need to go back as soon as we are allowed to travel!
I am a sucker for spooky places!! The hotel is right up my ally. Thank you for sharing these!