Sibiu International Airport (SBZ) is the gateway to Transylvania — a small airport 3 kilometres west of the city centre that serves Sibiu, one of the most beautiful cities in Romania, and the surrounding region of fortified churches, mountain villages, and the Carpathian Mountains. Sibiu was the European Capital of Culture in 2007, and it is easy to see why — the medieval old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with cobbled streets, pastel-coloured houses, and the famous “houses with eyes” (attic windows that look like eyes). The airport is close to the city, making it an ideal entry point for exploring Transylvania, the Făgăraș Mountains, the fortified churches of the Saxons, and the legendary Bran Castle.

We compare Avis, Hertz, Europcar and local operators at Sibiu Airport. Compact cars start around €15/day. The airport is 270 kilometres northwest of Bucharest.

Why Hire a Car at Sibiu Airport

• The Old Town: The medieval centre of Sibiu, with the Grand Square (the largest in Transylvania), the Brukenthal Palace (a baroque palace with an art museum), the Council Tower, and the famous houses with eyes.
• The Evangelical Cathedral: A Gothic church in the main square, with a tower that offers views of the old town and the Făgăraș Mountains.
• The ASTRA Museum: An open-air museum of traditional Romanian village life, with over 300 buildings — houses, churches, mills, and workshops — in a park on the outskirts of the city.
• The Făgăraș Mountains: 1.5 hours south. The highest mountains in Romania, with the Transfăgărășan Road (one of the most beautiful drives in the world, according to Top Gear), and Balea Lake.
• The Fortified Churches: The Saxon villages around Sibiu have fortified churches that are UNESCO World Heritage sites — Biertan, Viscri, and Cârţa are the most famous.
• Bran Castle: 2.5 hours east. The “Dracula’s Castle,” a medieval fortress on a hill above a village, with turrets, secret passages, and a connection to the legend of Vlad the Impaler.
• Sighișoara: 2 hours east. A UNESCO World Heritage medieval town, the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, with a clock tower, a citadel, and cobbled streets.
• Bucharest: 4 hours southeast. The capital of Romania, with the Palace of the Parliament (the largest administrative building in the world), the Old Town, and the Village Museum.

Driving from Sibiu Airport

Romania drives on the right. The A1 motorway connects Sibiu to Bucharest. The Transfăgărășan and Transalpina roads are mountain passes that are open only in summer (June–October). Speed limits are 130 km/h on motorways, 90 km/h on main roads and 50 km/h in towns.

Parking at Sibiu Airport is at the terminal. In the city, parking is in designated areas — expect €5–€10 per day. At the fortified churches, parking is free.

Booking Tips for Sibiu Airport

• Book 2–3 weeks ahead for summer.
• If driving the Transfăgărășan, check if it is open — it is closed in winter.
• GPS is essential — the rural roads are poorly signposted.
• If combining with Bucharest, the drive is 4 hours southeast.

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Hire at Sibiu Airport

How far is Sibiu Airport from the city centre? 3 kilometres — 10 minutes by car.

Is Sibiu worth visiting? Yes — it is one of the most beautiful and culturally rich cities in Romania, with a stunning medieval old town and easy access to Transylvania.

Do I need an SUV? No — a compact car is fine. But for mountain roads, an SUV is recommended.

Can I use my EU driving licence? Yes — EU licences are valid in Romania.