The Hidden Gems of Sibiu in Romania, Hunedoara, Fagaras 2023
The Hidden Gems of Sibiu in Romania, Hunedoara, Fagaras 2023
Photo Source : traveldreamdiary.com
Table of Contents
Romania Map
Photo Source : OanaAlexandra on canva.com
Notice: Several of the links below are affiliate links, which means that if you click over and make a purchase, I will get a commission at no extra cost to you. Here is a link to our complete affiliate disclosure.
Informations
We visited the natural wonders of our homeland, Romania, in August 2021. We visited some of the magnificent natural areas of Romania, such as the Bicaz Gorges, Sibiu in Romania, Saint Anne Lake, and Red Lake (you can read our travel guide about this amazing city here). We also had some amazing experiences in Brasov and its surrounds. Naturally, all of these beauty delighted us greatly, but we still wanted to see more, so we booked a night at the Bulevard Hotel in Hunedoara. Our initial destination was the Romanian monastery known as Prislop Monastery, which lies close to the village of Silvașu de Sus in the county of Hunedoara. The monastery’s church, a sixteenth-century
Things to do
Prislop Monastery
This was home to Saint John of Prislop in the seventeenth century. It was a Greek Catholic monastery in the eighteenth century. Run by ordained priests, it was essentially abandoned until the 19th century. In 1901, Bishop Demetriu Radu oversaw the monastery’s reconstruction. Following the United Romanian Church’s prohibition on October 29, 1948, the Greek-Catholic priests were taken into custody, and the Orthodox Church took over the location. Metropolitan Nicolae Bălan moved the monk Arsenie Boca from the Sâmbăta Monastery to Prislop on November 25, 1948. Two years later, he was jailed there as well. After 1975, the monastery was reconstructed as an Orthodox monastery housing a nunnery.
Photo Source : traveldreamdiary.com
Following our visit to this lovely church, we made our way to our hotel in Hunedoara. There, we rested for a while before exploring the city center and discovering a fantastic pizzeria with excellent food:
Hundedoara city center
In Romania’s Transylvania, Hunedoara County is home to the city of Hunedoara (Romanian: [huneˈdo̯ara ], German: Eisenmarkt, and Hungarian: Vajdahunyad [ˈvɒjdɒhuɲɒd]. Boș (Bós), Groş (Grós), Hășdat (Host; Hochstätten), Peștișu Mere (Alpestes), and Răcăştia (Rákosd) are the five settlements it oversees. It is situated in southwest Transylvania, close to the Poiana Ruscă Mountains. Closely associated with the Hunyadi family, the city is home to the most significant Gothic-style secular structure in Transylvania: the Hunyad Castle. Five fires devastated the castle, although Austro-Hungarian and later Romanian government rebuilt it numerous times. In addition to the castle, the town grew as a market for the surrounding mountain areas and a hub for iron production. The population of Hunedoara grew to 86,000 over the 20th century.
Photo Source : traveldreamdiary.com
We had lunch and then headed for Corvin Castle. If you happen to be passing through Hunedoara, be sure to check this out:
Corvin Castle
One of Transylvania’s most significant secular structures is the Hunedoara Castle. On the ruins of a fourteenth-century stronghold, the rock castle was constructed. It is situated in the southwest of the Romanian city of Hunedoara on a limestone rock in the midst of an industrial complex. There are various names for the mentioned castle that relate to its location or owners. The Hunyadi family’s ancestral residence was converted from an existing stronghold after 1440 by the Hungarian statesman and army leader Johann Hunyadi.
Photo Source : traveldreamdiary.com
After that, we gladly made our way back to the hotel, where we had a leisurely evening dining alfresco on the terrace, just like we would have at a five-star establishment. If you choose to stay overnight in Hunedoara, we heartily recommend the photographs below from the Bulevard hotel. We were rather happy.
Photo Source : traveldreamdiary.com
We made a stop at Sibiu and its environs on our route from Hunedoara to our home in Fagaras. There, we saw the Fairy Valley Castle and the nearby Povestea Calendarului, which tells the tale of the Calendar resort.
city center Sibiu in Romania
Located in the historical area of Transylvania, Sibiu is a well-preserved medieval town of medium size located in central Romania.The town is a popular tourist destination for both domestic and foreign visitors, earning it the nickname “The Town with Eyes” due to its old houses with partially open rooftops. From the start of the twenty-first century, Sibiu has attracted a lot of interest due to its culture, history, gastronomy and local cuisine, and distinctive architecture, which includes the famous homes with eyes that earned the town its moniker. Its historical center started the application process to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004. In 2007, Sibiu was named the 2007 European Capital of Culture.
Photo Source : OanaAlexandra on canva.com
Other attractions in Sibiu include the Bridge of Lies, Holy Trinity Cathedral, the Sibiu Lutheran Cathedral, and the Stairs Passage. A resort with twelve story houses representing each month of the year and its seasons is the setting for the Calendar’s tale. If you are still in the area to visit the Fairy Valley, it is worth visiting.
The story of the Calendar
Porumbacu de Sus, Romania, is the location of this magnificent location. The Calendar and the stories behind each of the twelve months of the year are presented in a magnificent way. It’s a fantastic idea for kids and adults alike, with the latter getting to reminisce about their own upbringing.
Photo Source : traveldreamdiary.com
The Clay Castle,Fairy Valley
Although it is more appropriately known by its official name, the Fairy Valley Clay Castle (Castelul Valea Zanelor), it is more commonly referred to as the “Fairy Tale Clay Castle” here in Romania.Although this unusual Romanian clay castle was founded in 2014, it took some time for it to reach its full potential and become the magnificent structure that it is now.The Fairy Valley Clay Castle, as its name implies, is made completely of natural materials, primarily clay but also stone and straws.
Photo Source : traveldreamdiary.com
The Brukenthal Palace is located in Romania, close to Sibiu, in the settlement of Avrig. And should you happen to find yourself in Sibiu:
Brukenthal Palace
2011 saw the reopening of Baron Samuel von Brukenthal’s former vacation home, which underwent extensive renovations honoring Brukental’s principles and vision before being made available to the general public once more. The main structure of Baron Samuel von Brukenthal’s summer home, Brukenthal Palace in Avrig, is a magnificent and historic site that was formerly referred to as the Eden of Transylvania. Designed by the same architect as Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna at the time, the Palace is a miniature that is seven times smaller. In summary, we have two internationally renowned baroque mansions that are unified both aesthetically and architecturally.
Photo Source : traveldreamdiary.com
We also loved visiting the Sambata de Sus Monastery, which is located close to the town of Fagaras and is well worth the trip.
Sambata De Sus Monastery
Monks live in Sâmbăta Monastery, which is also called Brâncoveanu Monastery from Sâmbăta de Sus. At first, it had a wooden church dedicated to both the Healing Spring and the Dormition of the Mother of God. Preda Brâncoveanu, a nobleman, had the church erected in 1657. Under Constantin Brâncoveanu’s supervision, a wall church was constructed between 1696 and 1707. The painters Ionașcu and Pană completed the interior murals in 1766. During the religious uprisings in Transylvania in 1785, the Habsburg general Preiss destroyed the monastery with a cannon.
Photo Source : traveldreamdiary.com
This is the Cathedral from Fagaras city center:
Joan The Baptist Cathedral
The brand-new cathedral doesn’t have the same vibe as traditional Orthodox churches. Large, airy interior with a cool sense due to the marble floor.
Photo Source : traveldreamdiary.com
And the Fagaras Fortress—we’ll tell you about that story another day. This is where Christian and I met and fell in love for the first time. This fortress had special meaning for us and will always hold a place in our hearts where we shared our first, priceless memories of one another.
Fagaras Fortress
On the site of a 12th-century wooden stronghold with earth ramparts, the fortress’s construction began in 1310.Situated near Wallachia and midway between Brașov and Sibiu, the Făgăraş Citadel offered a strong defensive line against potential attacks into the southeast region of Transylvania.The stronghold served as a jail for people who disagreed with the communist government from 1948 to 1960. Researchers estimate that 161–166 prisoners were officially proclaimed dead at this institution; nevertheless, ex-detainees estimate significantly higher numbers. There was restoration work done between 1965 and 1977. Nowadays, the citadel houses a variety of relics and serves as a museum.
Photo Source : OanaAlexandra on canva.com
Where to stay
Traditional Food
Sarmale, or cabbage rolls, are regarded as the national food of Romania. For a subtle flavor, a well-balanced blend of rice, minced meat (often pork or pork mixed with beef), additional veggies, and regional herbs is rolled in cabbage leaves or young grape leaves. Mămăligă (Polenta) Mămăligă is produced from corn flour that has been boiled in water with a pinch of salt and a few drops of sunflower oil. It is typically served as a side dish for sarmale or plain with sour cream and Romanian cheese. Soupa de perişoare cu carne de porc Burta Ciorba (Original Tripe Soup) Beef Salad, or Boeuf Salad
Photo Source : traveldreamdiary.com
Roasting eggplant and red peppers over a grill is the best way to prepare Zacuscă, a vegetable dip. After removing the burnt skins, other veggies like carrots and maybe mushrooms are mixed in. Fasole cu afumatura, or bean soup with smoky pork Tochitura, or roasted pig stew, is made by slowly cooking sausage, bacon, and pork in lard. Pickles, cheese, polenta, and fried eggs go with it. Mici/Mititei (Grilled Minced Meat Rolls): A variety of grilled minced meats, primarily pork, combined with veal or sheep in different ways
Photo Source : traveldreamdiary.com
Papanasi (Fried or boiled cheese doughnuts)
Cornulete (Crescent Pastries)
Cozonac (Sweet Bread) – a rich, sweet bread, is another Romanian food prepared for holidays and special occasions.
Mucenici (Sweet Dough Rolls)
Photo Source : traveldreamdiary.com
Saving Tips
Spend your lunch at establishments that serve “Meniul Zilei,” or the Daily Menu, if you wish to cut costs on your meal. Most major cities in Romania provide a free one- to two-hour guided tour. Romanian trains are the least expensive mode of transportation, but they are also the slowest.
Photo Source : OanaAlexandra on canva.com
Bring a bottle of water. If your schedule is flexible, consider using BlaBlaCar, a ridesharing service. Another option is to dine at self-service restaurants, which are less expensive. Plan ahead for your travel and accommodations when visiting Peles Castle or Bran Castle. Simply get the standard ticket; the additional cost for recording video is not justified.
If you choose not to go by car and would like further information on tours, things to see, and things to do, we suggest these two firms. They offer tours for any kind of activity you can think of, and you can purchase trips from them for a lot less money than you would if you were to buy them when you get there. Being able to save some money is always beneficial!
Book your tours!
Tours: If you do not go by car and need to know more information about the tours, and things to see, we recommend these companies that are offering tours for any kind of activity you want to do and where you can buy trips much cheaper than if you buy them when you arrive at your destination. It is always good to be able to save some money!
Viator, Get Your Guide, Tiqets, City Sightseeing, Sesame, Sightseeing Pass, Contiki, Riviera Travel, CityPass: the best activities in town!
Shopping
Shopping in Hunedoara: The Corvin Castle area of the city center is home to cafés, restaurants, and gift shops. Shopping in Fagaras: Fruit markets, Chlotes stores, gift shops, restaurants, and cafés can all be found in the city center.
Photo Source : OanaAlexandra on canva.com
Sibiu offers simple shopping since the majority of its eateries, cafés, and gift shops are located on both sides of the main thoroughfare in the city center.
Getting Around
Compared to other Western European countries, Romania’s public transportation system is less developed and easier to use for visitors. While trains are widely distributed throughout the nation, they are slow and occasionally break down; there are few highways and most of the country’s roads are one-lane, making them congested and slow; and, especially in smaller towns, don’t expect to find much English spoken at train or bus stations.
Photo Source : OanaAlexandra on canva.com
The 450 km trip from Bucharest to Cluj-Napoca takes roughly 7 hours by car or 10 hours by rail, but it only takes 45 minutes by plane, and it only costs 30 euros. For this reason, flying is the most economical option for traveling greater distances in Romania.
Book your transport!
- when it comes to buses, Busbud is the best choice.
- when I want to travel by train, I choose Omio.
Rent a car!
Here you can find the best offers to rent the right car for you, as well as parking right in the airport: esky, Explorer, Centauro and intui.travel.
Getting Here
Romania can be reached mostly by train, bus, automobile, or airplane. The quickest route to Romania is by air, as several airlines currently offer direct flights from the United Kingdom. There will be one or more adjustments if you’re flying from North America, Australasia, or South Africa. Train travel from the UK to Romania is a lengthy journey, but if you have a rail pass, you can visit the nation as part of a longer vacation.
Thankfully, Bucharest airport receives a large number of flights from major European cities. Direct flights to Romania are available from all major European cities by TAROM, the national airline of Romania, and numerous smaller businesses. Following Bucharest, the nation’s busiest airport and destination for most foreign flights, the following cities also host international flights: Cluj Napoca, Sibiu, Iasi, Oradea, or Timisoara.
Photo Source : OanaAlexandra on canva.com
From 4 hours (Budapest to Oradea or Arad) to roughly 46 hours (London to Bucharest), one can travel by train to Romania from other European countries. Train travel can be a cheap and enjoyable method to incorporate Romania in a European vacation since the majority of train tickets permit many stops along the way. Romanian National Railways (SNCFR) connects numerous European locations with Bucharest. For trains that run overnight and for trips longer than ten hours, there are sleepers available in both first and second class.
The car’s registration, evidence of insurance, the road toll badge (Rovigneta), and a current driver’s license from the driver’s home nation are the documents needed by Romanian Customs. Bucharest and the major cities of Romania are connected to Athens, Berlin, Budapest, Copenhagen, Frankfurt, Istanbul, London, Milan, Munich, Paris, Rome, and Vienna via numerous bus lines.
Enterprises like as Eurolines, Flixbus, AtlasSib, Double T, CDI Transport, or Comati facilitate connections between Romania’s principal cities and other European cities.
Book tour Flights!
If you have not found your desired flight, or you simply want more flight options to find the best and cheapest, we will help you with the best flight plans, where you will definitely find what you are looking for. With just one click you will find the cheapest flights to a wonderful destination!
Book your Cruise!
Here you can find the best offers for luxury cruises, or cheap cruise offers. We went on a cruise in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Oman and we can only recommend this unforgettable experience, not just here, but around the world!
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is a type of insurance designed to cover the costs and losses associated with traveling. It serves as a safeguard for travelers in case of unexpected events. Here are the main types and key components of travel insurance: Trip Cancellation,Medical Insurance,Baggage Insurance, Travel Delay Insurance, Emergency Evacuation and Repatriation Insurance, Accidental Death , Rental Car Insurance:
Order your Luggage!
Choosing the right travel luggage can make your journey more comfortable and hassle-free. Here are the best offers to help you select the best travel luggage for your needs:
If you want to create your own WordPress blog, Elementor is the best website builder! Enjoy your cupon today :
