From Sibiu: Brukenthal Palace & The Upside-down House Avrig

Key Points

• Duration: Approximately 4 to 5 hours, ideal for a half-day trip from Sibiu.
• Main stops: Brambura Park’s Upside-down House and Brukenthal Palace in Avrig.
• Transportation: Travel is by local driver, with short, scenic transfers between sites.
• Highlights: Experience the quirky upside-down house and explore the Baroque gardens of one of Transylvania’s historic palaces.
• Extras: Includes complimentary coffee and bottled water, plus access to Sibiu’s exclusive rooftop lounge.
• Availability: Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Sibiu Day Trip to Avrig

This tour offers a compact yet engaging glimpse into Transylvania’s diverse sights, departing from Sibiu’s central locations. It combines a playful, family-friendly visit to Brambura Park’s Upside-down House with a more cultural experience at Brukenthal Palace in Avrig. The 4-hour duration makes it perfect for travelers with limited time who still want a taste of local charm and history.

The tour is designed for those interested in unique photo opportunities, historic architecture, and nature. It’s suitable for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, quirky attractions, and a relaxed pace. We appreciate how the tour balances fun elements like the upside-down house with more traditional sightseeing at the Baroque palace, providing variety within a short timeframe.

Scenic Drive Through Transylvania Countryside

The journey begins at Sibiu State Philharmonic, where a local driver welcomes guests. The drive offers an introduction to the picturesque Transylvania landscape, with views of lush fields and charming villages. This setting helps set the tone for a day of exploration that feels both relaxed and visually appealing.

Traveling in a comfortable vehicle, the group heads towards Brambura Park in Avrig. The scenic route is an added bonus, giving a sense of the region’s rural beauty and the tranquil atmosphere of the countryside. The short transfer time ensures guests spend more time enjoying the attractions rather than in transit.

Exploring the Quirky Upside-down House at Brambura Park

The first stop is Brambura Park, best known for its fun upside-down house. This attraction is designed to amuse visitors of all ages with its topsy-turvy rooms, making it an ideal photo opportunity.

Inside, the rooms are decorated to give the illusion of being completely inverted, providing a playful environment for memorable photos. Guests can also enjoy a café with coffee and snacks, creating a relaxed atmosphere to unwind amid the gardens. The mini zoo and gardens add further appeal, offering a chance to enjoy some nature and perhaps spot local animals.

This stop lasts about one hour, offering enough time for exploration and casual enjoyment without feeling rushed. The quirky nature of the upside-down house makes it a highlight for many visitors seeking something different from traditional sightseeing.

Discovering Brukenthal Palace in Avrig

A quick five-minute transfer takes visitors to Brukenthal Palace, the former summer residence of Baron Samuel von Brukenthal. The palace, built in the 18th century, is a fine example of Baroque architecture set within beautifully maintained gardens.

Guests are encouraged to self-guide through the gardens and palace exterior, taking in the elegant Baroque style and lush landscaped gardens. The orangery and other garden features add to the palace’s charm. For those interested, there’s the option to enjoy a refreshing coffee or lemonade on the terrace of the palace café, overlooking the scenery.

Learning about Baron Brukenthal and the Habsburg influence in the region adds a layer of cultural depth. The one-hour visit provides a relaxed experience, with plenty of opportunities for photos and appreciation of the historic setting.

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Leisure Time in Avrig’s Gardens and Gift Shop

Following the palace visit, there’s leisure time to explore further. Visitors can walk through the gardens, browse the gift shop, or simply relax amid the peaceful surroundings. This free period lasts about 30 minutes, giving visitors space to absorb the atmosphere or pick up souvenirs.

The gardens are designed for casual strolling and photography, making it easy to capture the beauty of the estate. The relaxed pace ensures no rush, allowing guests to enjoy the scenic views and take in the historic ambiance at their own speed.

Practical Details: Included Perks and Booking Flexibility

The tour includes access to Sibiu’s most exclusive rooftop lounge, a perk that offers a panoramic view of the city. Plus, virtual reality experiences and games are part of the package, adding an innovative twist for tech enthusiasts.

Guests receive complimentary coffee and bottled water, making the experience more comfortable. It’s important to note that food is not included, so travelers should plan accordingly. The tour is hosted in English and Romanian, with a focus on flexibility: free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before departure, and booking now allows the option to pay later.

The overall duration is about 4 hours, making it suitable for those with limited time but eager to see both playful and historic sites. The tour is not recommended for people over 95 years old due to physical considerations, but otherwise offers a family-friendly experience.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins at Sibiu State Philharmonic, where guests are picked up at a designated meeting point or accommodation. After a short briefing, the group heads to Brambura Park for about one hour of exploring the upside-down house and gardens.

Next, a five-minute transfer takes visitors to Brukenthal Palace in Avrig. Here, the self-guided walk through gardens and the palace exterior lasts about one hour, with optional refreshments available at the palace café. The final leisure time in the gardens lasts around 30 minutes before returning to Sibiu, arriving back at the Sibiu State Philharmonic around 1:15 PM.

Why Choose This Tour for Your Sibiu Visit

This tour provides a balanced mix of playful attractions and cultural sights, perfect for those short on time but still wanting to see the region’s highlights. The Upside-down House adds a fun, Instagram-worthy element, while the Brukenthal Palace offers a taste of local aristocratic history.

The scenic drive, coupled with relaxed walkings and refreshments, makes it an enjoyable and accessible experience. The inclusion of virtual reality experiences and access to an exclusive rooftop lounge further enhances the value, especially for travelers seeking a bit of modern entertainment alongside historical sites.

Final Thoughts on the Sibiu: Brukenthal Palace & Upside-down House Tour

This tour stands out for its engaging stops and well-organized itinerary. It’s particularly suitable for families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate quirky attractions and historic architecture in a short timeframe. The flexibility of booking and free cancellation policies** add to its appeal for spontaneous planners.

While it doesn’t include lunch or extensive guided tours, the self-guided exploration and leisure time allow guests to personalize their experience. We like how the tour combines fun visuals with cultural insights, making it a rewarding half-day trip from Sibiu.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, a local driver provides transfers between Sibiu, Brambura Park, and Brukenthal Palace.

How long does the entire tour last?
The total duration is around 4 hours, including stops and free time.

What is included in the tour price?
Guests receive access to Sibiu’s rooftop lounge, virtual reality experiences, complimentary coffee and bottled water, and guided transfers.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the Upside-down House is fun for all ages, but the tour is not recommended for those over 95 years old.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and snacks are recommended for the day.

Is lunch included?
No, food is not included, so plan to bring your own snacks or eat at the cafes during stops.

What languages are offered?
The tour is hosted in English and Romanian.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from Sibiu State Philharmonic, with pick-up at your accommodation or a central location.

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