Covered Staircase Sighisoara - Image 1
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Covered Staircase Sighisoara

Sighișoara, Romania

A historic, wood-covered staircase in Sighisoara Citadel, leading to a church and cemetery, steeped in legend.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning

Fewer crowds, soft light

CrowdLow
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Covered Staircase Sighisoara - Image 1

Covered Staircase Sighisoara

Best Time

Early morning

Fewer crowds, soft light

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic, wood-covered staircase in Sighisoara Citadel, leading to a church and cemetery, steeped in legend.

"Climb the 175 steps of this unique covered staircase for history, legend, and stunning views!"

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

The 175 steps can be steep; comfortable footwear is a must for the climb. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the atmosphere

The covered nature of the stairs creates unique lighting for photos. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 175 Steps

The 175 Steps

Sighisoara Citadel

Climb the historic, wood-covered tunnel staircase, a vital link to the past and a unique architectural marvel.

Church on the Hill

Church on the Hill

Top of the Covered Staircase

Discover the serene Saxon cemetery and the historic Church on the Hill, offering panoramic views.

Dracula's Birthplace Vicinity

Dracula's Birthplace Vicinity

Base of the Staircase

Located near the house believed to be Vlad Dracula's birthplace, adding a layer of historical intrigue.

Charming Wine Cellars

Charming Wine Cellars

Base of the Staircase

Enjoy local wine and hospitality at the delightful cellars and cafes nestled at the foot of the stairs.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Ascent

The Covered Staircase (Scara Acoperită) leads to the Church on the Hill and a Saxon cemetery. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture the best light. Consider the weather, as it's covered but can still be damp.

Legendary Love & Local Charm

This 17th-century staircase is steeped in legend, with tales of boys proving their love by kissing a girl on every step without stumbling. Explore the charming wine cellars and cafes at the base.

Best Times

When
Early morning
Why
Fewer crowds, soft light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Scholar’s Stairs in Sighisoara are considered an architectural jewel. They provide access to the Church on the Hill, as well as the oldest school in the city center. This covered staircase was built in 1642 by the municipality, in order to protect students from bad weather while they walked to school.  The wood-covered tunnel consists of 175 steps, and is very well maintained.
ioana7_emilia
0 likes • 282 views

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

The 175 steps can be steep; comfortable footwear is a must for the climb. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the atmosphere

The covered nature of the stairs creates unique lighting for photos. :camerawithflash:

The Covered Stairway in Sighișoara—known locally as Scara Acoperită or Scara Școlarilor—is a fascinating historic timber tunnel staircase dating back to the 17th century. Legend: A boy must kiss his girl on each step without stumbling to prove his true love. #sighisoara #romania #instatravel #lonetraveller
jonathanvh1988
31 likes • 810 views
We start in Sighisoara, a gorgeous little village of colorful buildings and quaint streets. We see here the upstairs to Dracula’s birthplace, all lit red and foggy. Also the 170-step covered staircase leading up to a Saxon graveyard and church. Notice the wine cellar? That’s called Teo’s — and if you go to Sighisoara it’s a must. He’s a delightful man with beautiful wine, and his wine cellar is li...
lisamariebasile
79 likes • 2.6K views

❤️ Embrace the legend

Learn about the legend of proving true love by kissing on each step. ❤️

🍷 Relax at the base

Enjoy a glass of local wine at one of the charming cellars after your climb. :wine_glass:

Headed to the cemeteries up above the citadel at Sighisoara Romania. The pupils staircase was covered to protect students walking the their school high above the city. #solotravel #Sighisoara #romania #balkan #cemetery
brettandbear
21 likes • 1.3K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Wear comfortable shoes

The 175 steps can be steep; comfortable footwear is a must for the climb. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Capture the atmosphere

The covered nature of the stairs creates unique lighting for photos. :camerawithflash:

❤️ Embrace the legend

Learn about the legend of proving true love by kissing on each step. ❤️

🍷 Relax at the base

Enjoy a glass of local wine at one of the charming cellars after your climb. :wine_glass:

⬆️ Head to the cemetery

Don't miss the Saxon cemetery and Church on the Hill at the top. ⛪

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Covered Staircase for its unique historical architecture and the enchanting legends associated with it. The climb offers rewarding views and leads to significant landmarks like the Church on the Hill and a Saxon cemetery. Some find the steps challenging, but the overall experience is highly recommended for its charm and atmosphere.

What People Like

Historic architecture
Romantic legends
Great views

What People Dislike

Steep steps

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Covered Staircase, also known as Scara Acoperită or Scara Școlarilor, is located within the Sighisoara Citadel. You can easily walk to it from the main squares of the old town. It's a prominent landmark leading up towards the Church on the Hill. TikTokInstagram

Parking within the historic citadel is restricted. It's best to park outside the citadel walls and walk in. Several paid parking lots are available near the citadel entrances. Reddit

Sighisoara has a train station, and buses also serve the town. From the station or bus stop, it's a moderate walk to the citadel where the staircase is located. Reddit

The staircase consists of 175 steps and is covered, so it's not wheelchair accessible. Visitors with mobility issues may find the climb challenging. TikTok

The best way to explore Sighisoara Citadel is on foot. Wander through its narrow cobblestone streets, and use the Covered Staircase as a key point of interest. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no admission fee to climb the Covered Staircase itself. It's a public thoroughfare within the historic citadel. TikTok

The Covered Staircase is accessible at all times, as it's an outdoor public structure. However, the Church on the Hill at the top has specific visiting hours. Reddit

While climbing the staircase is free, there might be a small donation requested or a nominal fee to enter the Church on the Hill, depending on the season and current policies. Reddit

Yes, the Saxon cemetery located at the top of the staircase is open to visitors. It offers a peaceful atmosphere and historical insights. Instagram

Many guided tours of Sighisoara Citadel include a visit to the Covered Staircase as part of their itinerary. This can provide historical context and local stories. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for photography. The covered nature of the stairs creates dramatic shadows and highlights, especially during golden hour. Instagram

Tripods are generally allowed, but be mindful of other visitors, especially during peak times. The narrowness of the staircase can make it tricky. Reddit

The entrance and exit points of the staircase offer great framing opportunities. Also, capture the details of the wooden structure and the view from the top. TikTok

Photography rules inside churches can vary. It's best to check for signage or ask a local attendant before taking photos inside the Church on the Hill. Reddit

You can stage photos related to the legend of proving true love by kissing on each step, though it might be challenging to do without stumbling! Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, at the base of the staircase, you'll find charming wine cellars and cafes, like Teo's, offering local refreshments and a place to relax. Instagram

Sighisoara offers traditional Romanian cuisine, often with Saxon influences. Expect hearty dishes, local pastries, and excellent wines. Instagram

Prices at the cafes and wine cellars at the base are generally reasonable, offering good value for the experience. Instagram

While traditional Romanian food can be meat-heavy, many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan options. It's always good to ask. Reddit

The streets around the citadel, including near the base of the staircase, have numerous souvenir shops selling local crafts and trinkets. Reddit

Covered Staircase Sighisoara (2026) – Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Travel Guide