🌍 Overview
As a digital nomad, I’ve had the pleasure of calling Sibiu, Romania my home for several months, and I can confidently say that it’s a hidden gem for remote workers. Sibiu digital nomads love this city for its unique blend of medieval charm, rich cultural heritage, and stunning natural surroundings. With a population of 151,894, Sibiu is large enough to offer all the amenities you need, yet small enough to feel like a tight-knit community. The city’s safety index of 7312/100 and low cost of living make it an attractive destination for those looking to escape the high prices of Western Europe.
Sibiu is a city that will surprise you with its beauty, from the colorful buildings in the Big Square (Piata Mare) to the picturesque streets of the Lower Town (Orașul de Jos). As a Sibiu digital nomad, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to explore the city’s history, culture, and food scene, which is a fascinating mix of Romanian, German, and Hungarian influences. Whether you’re interested in hiking, visiting museums, or simply enjoying a coffee in a quaint café, Sibiu has something for everyone.
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads
When it comes to choosing a neighborhood to live in Sibiu, you’ll have several options to consider. Here are three areas that are popular among digital nomads:
- Centru: This is the heart of Sibiu, with most of the city’s main attractions, restaurants, and cafes within walking distance. You can find a one-bedroom apartment in Centru for around 1,800 RON (approximately $451 USD) per month.
- Lupeni: Located just a short walk from the city center, Lupeni is a charming neighborhood with a mix of old and new buildings. It’s a bit quieter than Centru, but still has plenty of amenities and a relaxed atmosphere. Rent prices are similar to Centru, with a one-bedroom apartment costing around 1,600 RON (approximately $400 USD) per month.
- Turnișor: This neighborhood is a bit further from the city center, but still within walking distance. Turnișor is known for its beautiful parks and green spaces, making it a great option for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Rent prices are slightly lower, with a one-bedroom apartment costing around 1,200 RON (approximately $300 USD) per month.
Cost of Living Breakdown
The cost of living in Sibiu is relatively low compared to other European cities. Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses for a digital nomad:
- Rent: 1,800 RON (approximately $451 USD) per month for a one-bedroom apartment in Centru
- Food: A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around 20-30 RON (approximately $5-7.50 USD) per person. Groceries are also relatively cheap, with a basket of basic items (milk, bread, eggs, etc.) costing around 50-70 RON (approximately $12.50-17.50 USD) per week.
- Transport: A monthly public transportation pass costs around 40 RON (approximately $10 USD). Taxis are also affordable, with a typical ride costing around 10-20 RON (approximately $2.50-5 USD).
- Coworking: A monthly membership at a coworking space like Sibiu Coworking or Hub Sibiu costs around 200-300 RON (approximately $50-75 USD) per month.
Internet & Coworking
Sibiu has a relatively fast internet speed of 49 Mbps, making it easy to stay connected and productive. There are several coworking spaces and cafes with good internet and a comfortable work environment. Some popular options include:
- Sibiu Coworking: Located in the heart of the city, this coworking space offers a range of membership options, from hot desks to private offices.
- Hub Sibiu: This coworking space is situated in a beautiful old building and offers a relaxed, community-oriented atmosphere.
- Café Felix: This café is a popular spot for remote workers, with good coffee, fast internet, and a cozy atmosphere.
Sibiu has a growing digital nomad community, with several meetups and events organized throughout the year. Some popular groups include:
- Sibiu Digital Nomads: This Facebook group is a great way to connect with other remote workers and stay up-to-date on events and meetups.
- Nomads in Sibiu: This group organizes regular meetups and activities, from hiking trips to language exchange events.
Culture & Lifestyle
Sibiu is a city with a rich cultural heritage, and there’s always something to do or explore. Some popular attractions include:
- The Big Square (Piata Mare): This picturesque square is surrounded by colorful buildings, cafes, and restaurants.
- The Brukenthal Museum: This museum is one of the oldest and most important in Romania, with a collection of art and artifacts from around the world.
- The Sibiu International Theatre Festival: This annual festival brings together performers and artists from around the world for a week of theatre, music, and dance.
The food scene in Sibiu is also worth exploring, with a mix of traditional Romanian dishes like sarmale and ciorba, as well as international cuisine. Some popular restaurants include:
- Crama Sibiană: This restaurant serves traditional Romanian food in a cozy, rustic atmosphere.
- La Ceaun: This restaurant offers a range of international dishes, from pasta to sushi.
As a digital nomad, you’ll need to consider visa requirements when planning your stay in Sibiu. Romania offers a relatively straightforward visa process for tourists, with a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period. For longer stays, you may need to apply for a residence permit or a work visa. It’s always best to check with the Romanian embassy or consulate in your home country for the latest information and requirements.
💡 Practical Tips
Here are some practical tips to keep in mind when living and working in Sibiu:
- SIM cards: You can buy a SIM card from a local provider like Orange or Vodafone for around 10-20 RON (approximately $2.50-5 USD).
- Transport: Sibiu has a relatively good public transportation system, with buses and trams connecting the city center to outlying neighborhoods.
- Safety: Sibiu is generally a safe city, but as with any place, it’s always a good idea to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.
- Weather: Sibiu has a continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. Be sure to pack accordingly, with warm clothing for winter and light clothing for summer.