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

Traveling through Romania often reveals a land of contrasts—historic towns, enchanting landscapes, and surprising quirks. One such experience that combines both culture and fun is the half-day tour from Sibiu to Brukenthal Palace and the Upside-down House in Avrig. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or just looking for a lighthearted outing, this tour offers an engaging mix of sights, stories, and a touch of whimsy.

What we particularly love about this experience are three points: the chance to enjoy scenic Transylvanian landscapes, the quirky delight of exploring an upside-down house, and the opportunity to learn about Baron Brukenthal’s summer residence. The only possible downside? The relatively short duration might leave some craving more time at each stop. Still, if you enjoy a balanced mix of culture and fun, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This journey suits travelers who want a mix of sightseeing and unique attractions, especially those traveling with family, friends, or anyone eager for a snapshot of local life outside Sibiu. It’s perfect for anyone who appreciates quirky photo ops, scenic drives, and historical insights—all wrapped into one relaxed half-day adventure.

Good To Know

• Balanced itinerary combining fun and culture
• Scenic countryside views of Transylvania
• Family-friendly with attractions suited for all ages
• Comfortable transportation and flexible timing
• Optional café stops and leisure time at each site
• Learning about local history through engaging guides

You can check if your dates are available here:

Introduction to the Tour Experience

If you’re looking for a way to spice up your time outside Sibiu, this tour offers a whimsical visit to Brambura Park with its famous upside-down house, plus a dash of regal history at Brukenthal Palace. We love how it blends the playful with the refined, making it a well-rounded outing that appeals to a wide range of travelers.

The scenic drive through Transylvania’s rolling hills is a definite highlight, offering glimpses of lush greenery and picturesque villages along the way. The quirky upside-down house is perfect for fun photos and a lighthearted break from traditional sightseeing, while the palace visit provides a taste of aristocratic life in 18th-century Romania. One thing to keep in mind: the tour’s pace is quite relaxed, so plan to enjoy the small details at each stop.

This experience is best suited for those who appreciate quirky attractions and want a taste of local history without long museum visits. It’s also ideal for families or groups who enjoy a little humor woven with cultural storytelling.

In-Depth Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point: Sibiu State Philharmonic

The tour begins with a convenient pickup from Sibiu’s main cultural hub, the Sibiu State Philharmonic. Here, your friendly driver greets you, and a brief chat introduces the day’s plan, setting a relaxed tone for the journey ahead. Most reviews mention how prompt and personable the guides are, which helps ease first-time visitors.

First Stop: Brambura Park and the Upside-down House

Just a short drive from Sibiu, Brambura Park is home to one of Romania’s most entertaining attractions: the upside-down house. As you step inside, you’ll find rooms turned on their heads—couches on ceilings, beds upside-down, and a playful sense of disorientation that makes for fantastic photos. Reviewers highlight how “it’s fun for all ages,” and many note how the quirky decor makes it a memorable photo-op.

Beyond the house, the surrounding park is a peaceful space with mini-zoo animals, gardens, and a cozy café where you can grab coffee or snacks. The fact that many visitors spend about an hour here means you have ample time for photos and a little relaxing stroll.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Second Stop: Brukenthal Palace & Gardens

A quick five-minute ride takes you to the Brukenthal Palace in Avrig, once the summer residence of Baron Samuel von Brukenthal, a key figure in Transylvania’s history. The palace is an exquisite example of baroque architecture, set amidst lush gardens and orangery.

The self-guided tour of the palace and gardens allows you to absorb the atmosphere at your own pace. Guests appreciate the optional terrace café, which offers refreshing drinks like lemonade and a lovely view of the gardens. As one reviewer states, “I loved learning about Baron Brukenthal’s influence in Transylvania and how the Habsburgs left their mark here.”

The gardens are perfect for a leisurely walk, with some visitors noting how “the greenery and flowers made for excellent photos.” The 45-minute to 1-hour visit is enough to soak in the sights without feeling rushed.

Leisure Time and Return to Sibiu

After exploring the palace, you’re encouraged to enjoy some leisure time—browse the gift shop, relax in the gardens, or simply soak up the scenery. The return trip to Sibiu wraps up around 1:15 PM, giving you the rest of your day free for other adventures.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Scenic Transylvanian Drive: The route between Sibiu, Avrig, and Brambura Park offers picturesque views of rolling hills, charming villages, and lush greenery. Many reviews mention how enjoyable the ride is, especially with a knowledgeable driver who shares tidbits about local life.

Unique Attractions: The upside-down house isn’t just a gimmick; it’s a well-maintained, engaging experience that makes for fantastic photos. Reviewers often comment on how “it’s a delight to see something so different” and appreciate the playful atmosphere.

Historical Insight: Visiting Brukenthal Palace adds cultural depth to the trip. Learning about Baron Brukenthal and the influence of the Habsburg dynasty provides context that enriches your understanding of Romanian history.

Flexibility & Comfort: The tour’s small-group nature ensures personalized attention, and the optional café stops add a touch of leisure. Plus, the free cancellation policy and reserve-now-pay-later options make planning flexible.

Practical Details and Value

The tour lasts approximately five hours, making it a manageable half-day outing. The price includes transportation, entry to the attractions, and some refreshments, which many reviewers say adds value considering the sights and fun experiences packed in.

Since food isn’t included, bringing your own snacks or planning a café stop at either location is wise, especially if you prefer to extend your stay at any site. The tour is suitable for travelers of most ages, though it’s not recommended for those over 95, as some walking is involved.

Most guests found the timing just right to balance sightseeing with relaxing breaks. The small group size and friendly guides help create an intimate atmosphere, which reviewers describe as “informative but not rushed.”

The Sum Up

This half-day tour from Sibiu offers a balanced blend of quirky fun, scenic beauty, and cultural insight. It’s perfect for travelers looking for an engaging experience without spending the whole day on the road. The upside-down house guarantees laughs and photo memories, while the palace provides a glimpse into aristocratic life and local history.

If you love quirky attractions, enjoy beautiful landscapes, and want a relaxed pace, this tour delivers excellent value. It’s especially well-suited for families, couples, or solo travelers eager for a memorable and diverse outing outside Sibiu.

While the short duration may leave some wanting more time at each site, the overall experience offers a fulfilling taste of Romania’s charm, history, and humor—all with a comfortable and friendly atmosphere.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and leisure time.

What is included in the price?
The fee covers access to Brambura Park and the upside-down house, Brukenthal Palace and gardens, bottled water, and a coffee on the house.

Is food included?
No, food isn’t included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to purchase refreshments at the café options available.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera for photos, and snacks are recommended to enjoy the tour fully.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is not suitable for people over 95 years old. It involves some walking but generally is accessible for most ages.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour offered in English?
Yes, guides are available in both English and Romanian, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

What’s the best time to do this tour?
Availability varies, so check the schedule. Mornings or early afternoons work well to avoid late-day crowds and maximize your sightseeing time.

Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later, providing flexibility in planning your trip.

This tour offers a delightful snapshot of Transylvania’s charm—perfect for those seeking a fun, scenic, and culturally enriching half-day escape from Sibiu.

You can check if your dates are available here: