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Romania Road Trip: The Best Itinerary, Map & Tips

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Romania is known for its magnificent castles, churches, monasteries, and historic towns dotted around the country. It also has unexpectedly beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife just waiting to be explored.

Taking a Romanian road trip is the ultimate way to discover one of Europe’s most underrated and undiscovered countries. As you travel around Romania, you’ll find UNESCO World Heritage Sites, forested mountains and towns that have stepped back in time, as well as some of Europe’s most famous driving roads.

In this Romania trip planner we share travel tips, the best routes between towns and cities, things to do and see along the way, and hotel recommendations to help you plan your perfect Romania road trip.

Where is Romania?

Romania is a country located at the crossroads of Central, Eastern, and Southeastern Europe, most famous for its vibrant capital city of Bucharest, the region of Transylvania which is circled by the Carpathian Mountains, the fictional Count Dracula, and Europe’s second-largest river, the mighty Danube.

Romania borders Bulgaria to the south, Ukraine to the north, Hungary to the west, Serbia to the southwest, Moldova to the east, and the Black Sea to the southeast. 

The modern Romanian state was formed in 1859 when the Danubian Principalities of Moldovia and Wallachia united and then gained independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1877. 

Make sure you have travel insurance you can trust when visiting Romania. We recommend True Traveller for their 5-star TrustPilot reviews, variety of cover options, best activities cover as standard, great prices, and excellent service.

Getting to Romania

Whether you’re taking a road trip to Romania in a car, motorcycle, or campervan, self-driving is absolutely the best way to explore this spectacular European country.

You can stop whenever you want, try new activities, visit places you see along the route, and have the freedom to change plans at the last minute.

Fly into Bucharest’s Henri Coandă International Airport Otopeni to start your roadtrip in Romania. With direct flights from Europe, the Middle East and the UK, we recommend booking through Skyscanner for live deals and the best prices.

Are you planning to rent a car in Romania? As one of the largest aggregator car rental companies in the world, we recommend Rentalcars.com because they have massive purchasing power which enables them to secure the best car hire prices, which benefits you when you’re planning a road trip through Romania.

For a real adventure, hire a motorhome or campervan in Romania. We recommend Motorhome Republic , an aggregate booking site who pull together all the best deals from a number of rental agencies, to offer you a wide choice of options alongside an excellent English speaking expert motorhome Concierge Team.

It is possible to follow this road trip itinerary using public transport. All the towns and destinations are connected by train or bus. Find routes and timetables on Autogari , book trains with CFC Călători , and check out the community-based travel network BlaBlaCar for carpool options. You will need to book a day trip for both the Transalpina and Transfăgărășan roads, which unsurprisingly have no public transport options.

We recommend this Transfăgărășan day trip from Bucharest and this Transaplina and Transfăgărășan multi-day tour if you’re traveling Romania by public transport.

Best Time for a Romanian Road Trip

Romania has a temperate-continental climate of a transitional type, specific to Central Europe. The average temperature in winter falls below -3°C / 27°F and in the summertime is 23°C / 73°F.

March to May

Spring is a fantastic time for a Transylvania road trip, with temperatures warming across the country from April onwards. Blooming wildflowers, vibrant greenery in the mountains, and cows heading out to pasture mean spring is a fantastic time to experience Romania by car. You’ll find the roads and cities less crowded, and most attractions will be open.

June to August

Summer is a great time to plan a trip to Romania, when the country enjoys beautiful weather, long days, and the prospect of outdoor adventures, with July being the warmest month. This is when locals take holidays, with school being out for all of July and August, meaning heavier crowds and more traffic.

September to November

Autumn is a fantastic time for a Romania roadtrip , but it is considered the rainy season, so pack a waterproof! In early fall, the grapes and crops are being harvested, food festivals celebrate the bounty of the land, and you might enjoy an Indian summer, with the fall colors of the vineyards aflame.

December to February

The winter months in Romania can be very harsh and it usually snows, but most people come to Romania during the months of December to March for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding. It’s not the best time for a road trip, as the spectacular mountain passes will be closed and roads can be challenging to drive.

Road Trip Romania Map & Route

Our nine day Romanian itinerary starts in Bucharest and heads north through the heart of Transylvania, visiting some of the country’s most iconic cities and sights on the 843 mile circular route. If you’re looking for a one week Romania road trip itinerary, spend a morning in Braşov instead of a full day, and skip Sibiu.

• Get the Travel Guides
• The Rough Guide to Romania
• Romania Culture Smart! The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture
• Greater Than a Tourist – Brosov Romania: 50 Travel Tips from a Local
• Romania Road Trip Itinerary

Bucharest – Raşnov – Brasov – Sighişoara – Cluj-Napoca – Oradea – Timişoara – Hunedoara – Sibiu – Piteşti – Bucharest

• Distance 1357km
• Duration 7-10 days
• Drive Time 20 hours

How to use this map – Use your fingers (or computer mouse) to zoom in and out. Click or touch the icons to get more info about a place, and click the arrow in the box top left to open the index. To add to your own Google Maps account, click the star next to the title of the map.

Romania Itinerary

Day 1: bucharest.

Bucharest has much to offer visitors, from historical landmarks to trendy cafés and restaurants, so much so that it is worth spending a full day in the Romanian capital. 

Start your day by exploring Lipscani, the old town. The area has many cobblestone streets, historic buildings, sidewalk cafés, and independent shops selling traditional Romanian handicrafts like ceramics, lace, leatherwork and intricately painted eggs.

Stroll through the city to admire the charming architecture, including conventional Romanian buildings, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco designs, and marvel at the Stalinist Palace of the Parliament, the heaviest building in the world at 4.10 million tonnes!

It’s worth taking a free walking tour of Bucharest or this highly-rated guided city highlights tour to learn about the city’s history, communist past, and culture. 

Afterward, visit the stunning National Museum of Art of Romania and the Village Museum. The latter is an outdoor museum with exhibits showing traditional Romanian village life, with more than 300 buildings from all over the country. 

Enjoy lunch at the elegant Haute Pepper or the Stadio Restaurants Herastrau , which has lovely outdoor seating.

After lunch, take a relaxing walk through one of Bucharest’s beautiful parks, like Herastrau Park, Carol Park, or Tineretului Park. 

You can also take a day trip to the Danube Delta , a UNESCO-protected site that is the second-largest river delta in Europe and the best preserved in the world. There are fantastic bird-watching opportunities, with over 300 species of migratory birds visiting annually.

Enjoy dinner at Amethyst Sky Bar , 18 Lounge , or NOR – Sky Casual Restaurant for exceptional food and the city’s best views.

Follow it up with a night in the town, as Bucharest has many bars and clubs to enjoy. Throughout the year, it is common to find several outdoor festivals ongoing in various parts of the city.

• Where to Stay in Bucharest

Upmarket: Epoque Hotel by Relais & Chateaux – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: The Marmorosch Bucharest – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hotel Michelangelo – Booking.com | Agoda

Day 2: Bucharest to Raşnov

The second day offers visits to two castles, Peleş and Bran, and ends in Raşnov.

Peleş Castle

Peleș Castle is a stunning 19th century castle located about 87 miles / 140km from Bucharest. Since the drive is just under two hours, leave the capital early to make the most of your day.

Many consider Peleş Castle one of Europe’s most striking castles and a must-see attraction for visitors to Romania. It was built between 1873 and 1914 at the request of King Carol I of Romania, and it was used as a summer residence for the royal family. It is now open to tourists year-round and is a popular tourist destination.

Peleș Castle’s architecture combines different styles, including Gothic Revival, Renaissance, and Baroque. It features intricate wood carvings, stained glass windows, and ornate decorations. Inside, you can explore more than 160 rooms, including several royal apartments, a stunning concert hall, and a weapons room with medieval weapons and armor. 

Peleș Castle also boasts a magnificent art collection that includes works by Gustave Moreau and Franz von Stuck.

Bran Castle  

An hour away from Peleș is another must-see, Bran Castle . This medieval fortress is also known as Dracula’s Castle, based on its association with the character from Bram Stoker’s 1897 novel, Dracula . 

Bran Castle was built in the 1300s by the Saxons of Brasov as a fortress to protect them against the Ottoman Empire. It was later used as a customs post and a royal residence. In the early 20th century, it was given to Queen Marie of Romania as a gift, and it became one of her favorite residences.

Bran Castle enjoys a backdrop of scenic landscapes with walking trails leading to the nearby village of Bran, known for its traditional architecture and crafts.

Go for a quick lunch at Bran Chalet Restaurant and see if you can get outdoor seating for the best views of the castle. 

Raşnov 

Just a stone’s throw away from Bran is Raşnov , a small medieval Saxon town known for its hilltop fortress and beautiful natural surroundings. 

Head to the impressive Raşnov Fortress, built in the 13th century to protect the town against invaders. It now serves as a museum where visitors can learn about its history. 

For a more relaxing oasis to unwind after a day of traveling, visit one of Raşnov’s many spa resorts where you can soak in the hot springs, get a massage, or try some traditional Romanian treatments.

Take a stroll in the town center, which has several cafés and restaurants where you can dine. Try La Promenada or Sub Cetate Sergiana .

• Where to Stay in Raşnov

Upmarket: Das Fort Boutique – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Radsor Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hotel Soimul Poiana Brasov – Booking.com | Agoda

Don’t forget your road trip essentials! Our free road trip checklists help you remember everything, including road trip snacks , podcasts , and road trip songs for the journey!

Day 3: Raşnov to Braşov

Less than half an hour away from Raşnov is the beautiful city of Braşov . It offers visitors enough to set aside an entire day.

Walk along the city’s fortified walls for incredible city views of Braşov and the surrounding landscapes. Take a cable car ride up to Mount Tampa for more scenic sights.

In the city center, visit the charming Council Square, Casa Sfatului, and the Black Church, one of the most iconic landmarks in Braşov. It is a Gothic-style church built in the 1500s and is one of the largest in Romania.

Nearby is also the oldest school in Romania , now serving as a museum about the country’s history of education.

Have lunch at La Ceaun – Piata Sfatului in the town square or Casa Hirscher if you enjoy Italian cuisine.

In the afternoon take a small group Brown Bear watching tour to see the bears in their natural habitat from a specially-designed observation hideaway, or head for the Seven Ladders Canyon , locally known as Canionul Sapte Scari , famous for its steep ladders that take you up the rock walls past a series of rushing waterfalls.

Treat yourself to a restaurant celebrating local cuisine, like Restaurant Mamaliguta Brasov or Ograda , who serve exceptional beef cheeks.

• Where to Stay in Braşov

Upmarket: Hotel Aro Palace – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Radisson Blu Aurum Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Mer Guest House B&B – Booking.com | Agoda

Day 4: Braşov to Sighişoara

Just under two hours north of Brasov is Sighişoara . En route, stop at Rupea Citadel or Cetatea Rupea . This magnificent hilltop fortress includes a courtyard and tower and offers visitors breathtaking panoramic views of the area. 

Once you reach Sighişoara, the first thing you should do is visit the birthplace of Vlad III, commonly known as Vlad the Impaler or Vlad Dracula, was Voivode or Prince of Wallachia three times between 1448 and his death in 1476 or 1477, and inspired the name of Bram Stoker’s literary vampire, Count Dracula.

Vlad III is often considered one of the most important rulers in Wallachian history and a national hero of Romania, and you can visit the house on Tin Street where he was allegedly born, which is now the Vlad Dracul House museum.

A good way to find out more about the history of Dracula and the legends and myths which surround the first vampire is to take this Sighişoara city walking tour and Dracula house visit . You’ll get to visit the Scholars Staircase, and take the Scara Acoperita covered stairway to the 14th century Church on the Hill with its impressive history and ancient frescoes, and wander through the medieval cobbled city streets lined with colorful houses with your guide.

Another landmark linked to the fictional vampire is The Dracula Investigation , a museum with tours and exhibitions about the history of Dracula, including art installations, light and shadow shows, and multimedia projections.

Enjoy lunch at The Bean Specialty Coffee or Sanmarco Sighişoara for casual pizzas or burgers.

Another notable landmark in Sighişoara is the Clock Tower. It contains a museum and offers visitors stunning city views. Finally, explore the Sighişoara Museum, showcasing the history of the town, and the  Guild House or Casa Breslelor .

Dine at Casa Georgius Krauss , Casa Joseph Haydn – Wine & Cuisine or Casa Ferdinand .

Check in advance of your travels for festivals in Sighişoara, like the Medieval Festival held in July and the Sighişoara Blues Festival held annually in March. 

• Where to Stay in Sighişoara

Upmarket: Casa Georgius Krauss Sighişoara – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Carolina House – Booking.com | Agoda

Want to plan your own road tri p? Get our step-by-step road trip planning guide to help you organize the perfect trip, or check out our Europe road trip ideas .

Day 5: Sighişoara to Cluj-Napoca

About 90 miles from Sighişoara is the vibrant city of Cluj-Napoca . On your way, stop at the following two places:

• Biertan: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and wonderfully preserved 15th century fortified church with three tiers of 35-foot high defensive walls connected by towers and gates which encircled the complex, meaning the church was impossible to conquer during medieval times. 
• Salina Turda: Nearly 1,000 years old, the Turda Salt Mine is a unique attraction in Romania and features underground lakes, a Ferris wheel, and a mini-golf course.

Cluj-Napoca is the second-largest city in the country and deserves a whole day to visit. Explore the old town’s charming streets, beautiful architecture, and quaint shops. 

See the beautiful Gothic-style St. Michael’s Church, a famous landmark built in the 1300s. Another must-see is the Matthias Corvinus House, an attractive Gothic-style house that is now a museum, once home to King Matthias Corvinus. 

Go to the trendy DOT District of Toast or Sra Foodhouse for lunch. Afterward, visit Cluj-Napoca’s botanical gardens, arguably the most beautiful in Romania, with over 10,000 plant species.

Two museums worth exploring are the National Museum of Transylvanian History and the Ethnographic Museum of Transylvania . Both museums focus on showing the region’s history, culture, and traditions.

Cluj-Napoca is known for its delicious cuisine, which includes traditional dishes such as paprikash , a stew made with paprika and meat, and langos , a deep-fried dough with cheese and sour cream. Find these dishes at Roata or one of the two Dacilor restaurants .  

• Where to Stay in Cluj-Napoca

Upmarket: Hotel Platinia – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Radisson Blu Hotel Cluj – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Hotel Transilvania – Booking.com | Agoda

Other Nearby Road Trips

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Albanian Road Trip: An Epic & Flexible 7-10 Day Itinerary

Transalpina: All You Need to Know About Romania’s Highest Road

Day 6: cluj-napoca to oradea.

Oradea is a beautiful city located three hours west of Cluj-Napoca, close to the Hungarian border. Give yourself a break at Coffee Break in Huedin to stretch your legs. The town is also worth exploring, with its colorful and slightly quirky architecture. 

Given the long journey, it is best to make Oradea your primary destination for the day. Upon arrival, explore the old town, full of beautiful buildings and architecture from the 19th and 20th centuries. 

Whilst in the old town, visit the Military Museum and the Tarii Crisurilor Museum , which offers impressive historic and science exhibitions. Afterward, go to Baraw if you want Indian food for lunch or Hanul cu Noroc , which has a lovely terrace area.

More notable places to visit include two palaces: the Black Eagle Palace, one of Oradea’s most beautiful Art Nouveau buildings, and the Bishop’s Palace, a stunning Baroque-style palace built in the 1700s and home to the Museum of Art.

If you are keen on further exploration, there is also the 17th century Oradea fortress in the city center and the unique Moon Church, known for its unusual shape and decorations. 

A more relaxing option is to visit one of Oradea’s many thermal baths, some of the best in Romania. The most famous one is the Felix Baths , located just outside the city.

Dine at Piata9 or Via29 before strolling along the Crisul Repede River. The river runs through the city center. It offers a picturesque setting for a leisurely walk, even at night when the lights of the city dance on the water.

• Where to Stay in Oradea

Upmarket: Ramada by Wyndham Oradea – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hotel Nevis Wellness & Spa – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Stokker Hotel – Booking.com | Agoda

Looking for the best SIM card deals in Europe for your trip? Check out our guide to the best data SIMs in Europe and get the best deal for your trip to Romania.

Day 7: Oradea to Timişoara

Just under three hours south of Oradea is Timişoara , a 2023 European Capital of Culture, along with Elefsina in Greece and Veszprém in Hungary.

On your way to Timişoara, stop at Arad. Take the opportunity to walk, get a refreshment, and visit the magnificent Holy Trinity Cathedral , with its beautifully adorned multi-colored interior. 

Given the long drive, it is best to make Timişoara your primary destination for the day. Explore the Piata Unirii , Timişoara’s Union Square, and one of the city’s most vibrant areas, with many cafés, shops, and street performers. 

The imposing Baroque-style Palace of Culture in the town center can also be seen. Afterward, head to lunch at Restaurant Sabres and eat al fresco in the courtyard or In Thyme . 

Stroll through the charming Rose Park or the Timişoara Botanical Park, or ride a bike along the Bega River before visiting the Timişoara Art Museum . This museum has a fantastic collection of contemporary and modern art, with works by Romanian and international artists.

Before dinner, see the Timişoara Orthodox Monastery, which has a fascinating history and is one of the oldest in Timişoara. It also has a beautiful chapel and garden.

Enjoy dinner at Vinto , Le Monelline , or Restaurant Merlot . Follow it up with a night on the town. Timişoara boasts plenty of bars and clubs with something to suit all tastes.

• Where to Stay in Timişoara

Upmarket: Hotel Tresor Le Palais – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Hotel Stein Collection – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: ApartHotel Iosefin Residence – Booking.com | Agoda

Transalpina or Transfăgărășan?

As you head east through Romania, there are two spectacular roads that will take you back toward Bucharest through dramatic mountains and incredible natural scenery… but which one to take?

The first option is the Transalpina , Romania’s highest paved road. The DN67C runs north to south for 92 miles / 148km from Sebeş in Alba County to Novaci in Gorj County through the beautiful Parâng Mountains, and tops out at 7,037ft / 2,145 meters above sea level at the Urdele Pass. Go in May to mid-October when the road is open. To really appreciate the natural surroundings and vibrant colors of the autumnal trees go in mid-to-late fall.

The second option is the more famous Transfăgărășan Highway which is open between June and October. The DN7C highway is the epic Romania road that stretches for 56 miles / 90 kilometers through the Carpathian Mountains between Cârțișoara and Bascov. The route boasts 80 hairpin curves, five tunnels, and over 500 small bridges, topping out at 6,699ft / 2,042 meters above sea level at the  Pasul Bâlea . Driving the Transfăgărășan Highway in Romania is popular with road trippers and motorcycling enthusiasts due to its stunning views and challenging twists and turns.

If we had to pick one it would be the Transfăgărășan due to its history and variety of landscapes and attractions. It is possible to do both of these incredible driving roads if you have an extra day in hand. Take the Transalpina first, then head north again to Sibiu on the E81 before taking the E68 to the crossroad with Transfăgărășan and head south to Piteşti.

Day 8: Timişoara to Sibiu

Roughly 104 miles east of Timişoara is Hunedoara . Once there, spend a few hours visiting Hunedoara’s iconic landmark of Corvin Castle , also known as Hunyadi Castle or Hunedoara Castle. This magnificent medieval fortress is one of Europe’s largest and most impressive castles.

Many regard Corvin’s Castle as one of the Seven Wonders of Romania, along with Peleș Castle, the Palace of the Parliament, the Rock Sculpture of King Decebalus in Dubova, Bran Castle, the Mausoleum of Romanian Heroes in Mărășești, and Salina Turda.

The 14th century Corvin Castle was built by John Hunyadi, one of Hungary’s most famous military commanders. It was then expanded and renovated over the centuries by other owners. Today, the castle is a popular tourist destination open to visitors year-round.

Highlights at Corvin Castle include walking over the drawbridge with pointed turrets above, the late-Gothic Knight’s Hall, 15th century Mace Tower, the grisly torture chambers, and the Castle museum, where you can learn more about the architecture and history of the castle.

Continue to Sibiu , a beautiful city 80 miles east of Hunedoara. But first, stop about an hour outside Hunedoara in the small town of Sebeş for lunch at Eden café on Aviator Olteanu Street.

The historical center of Sibiu is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, narrow streets, and colorful buildings. While there, visit the gorgeous Holy Trinity Cathedral and take photos at the famous cast iron Bridge of Lies.

The Bridge of Lies has many legends surrounding it, with the most popular being that the bridge will collapse when someone tells a lie while standing on it, closely followed by a story that the bridge was often crossed by merchants who were trying to fool their clients, and the ones who were caught were thrown off the bridge.

Check out the Natural History Museum and the Brukenthal National Museum , one of the oldest museums in Romania. It is home to an impressive collection of art and artifacts, including works by Rubens and Bruegel.

Climb the Council Tower for stunning city views and surrounding hills. Then walk along the Sibiu’s fortified walls, considered to be the best-preserved in Europe, for more panoramic city views.

If you travel through Sibiu in October, see if you can catch the Astra Film Festival , Romania’s longest-running film festival. 

Enjoy dinner at La Cuptor or Kombinat Gastro-Brewery for great drinks, music, and food. 

• Where to Stay in Sibiu

Upmarket: Noblesse Boutique Resort – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: Magister Seven – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Poet Pastior Residence – Booking.com | Agoda

Day 9: Sibiu to Piteşti

Upon arrival in Piteşti , explore the old town known for its historic buildings and charming cafés and shops. Visit the impressive Piteşti City Hall and the Holy Friday Church. Enjoy lunch at Bistro 27 afterward.  

Your activities after lunch will depend on your next destination. If you are heading back to Bucharest, start the 73 mile / 117km journey toward the capital to arrive before sunset. 

Otherwise, stay in Piteşti and explore the Pitesti Natural History Museum . You can also take a walk through the Parcul Trivale, located on the city’s outskirts, and then make your way to dine at Casa Sattler .

• Where to Stay in Piteşti

Upmarket: Hotel Victoria – Booking.com | Agoda

Mid-Range: La Strada Boutique Villa – Booking.com | Agoda

Budget: Casa Maria Arges – Booking.com | Agoda

Romania Road Trip Resources

Here are the websites and services we personally use and recommend for traveling in Romania.

• Search for affordable flights to Romania with Skyscanner
• Search for availability and book hotels and accommodation in Romania with Booking.com
• Find and book the best campsites in Romania with Eurocampings
• Book the cheapest and most reliable car rentals in Romania with Rentalcars.com
• Find and hire your perfect motorhome or campervan with Motorhome Republic
• Get highly rated, reliable, and trustworthy travel insurance with True Traveller
• Check if you need a visa and arrange your documents with Visagov

Tips for Driving in Romania

The roads in Romania can be a challenging drive due to their condition, which often includes potholes, roadside deterioration, and poor surfacing. Awareness of this is crucial to help you avoid damage to your vehicle, and can slow down progress at times.

Whether you’re driving through Romania in your own vehicle or flying in and renting a car, you need to follow these rules when you drive and travel in Romania;

• You must have at least three months remaining on your passport (issued in the past ten years) at your intended date of departure from Romania.
• You may need a visa to enter Romania, you can find out more on the Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website .
• You must have at least 3rd party insurance for your vehicle when you road trip in Romania.
• Citizens of non-EU third countries may require an International Driving Permit (IDP). You can check here .
• Motorists are also legally required to carry the following items when driving in Romania: reflective jackets for drivers and passengers; a warning triangle, a fire extinguisher, and a first aid box.
• Romania uses an electronic road tax system to collect tolls. The tax or vignette is payable at border crossing points, post offices, and online. It’s easiest to buy your Romanian vignette in this way, and our recommended website is authorized by the Romanian Government. You don’t need a sticker or device, just select your vehicle and the amount of time you need and pay online with Roviniete.ro . If you’re hiring, check whether a vignette is included with your car rental company.
• In Romania, motorists drive on the right and overtake on the left. As a general rule, priority must be given to vehicles coming from the right unless indicated
• The alcohol limit for drivers of private vehicles is 0.00%. Penalties for drink driving can be severe.

RELATED POST: Driving in Europe – Everything You Need to Know

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Romania Road Trip: Everything You Need To Know (2024)

• Last Updated: April 7, 2024
• Destinations , Europe , Romania

This post contains everything you need to know to plan an epic Romania road trip.

Here you’ll find recommendations for the best places to visit in Romania, a few different itineraries, advice on where to stay in each place, and plenty of other practical tips and advice to help you plan a perfect trip.

I spent 3 weeks exploring Romania by car and was blown away by its dramatic scenery, fascinating history, and welcoming people. It’s a great place to visit and a perfect destination for an adventurous road trip.

Discover the castles of Transylvania. Explore medieval Saxon villages. Hike in the Carpathian mountains. Tackle the best driving road in the world. Party all night on a Black Sea beach.

Trust me, Romania is amazing.

Table of Contents

Why Take A Road Trip In Romania?

Romania is one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. Overlooked by most travellers, this Balkan country is packed full of breathtaking scenery, atmospheric towns, historical sites, and cultural landmarks.

It’s a fairly big country and public transport is somewhat lacking in most areas, which makes it a perfect destination to discover with your own set of wheels.

By embarking on a road trip in Romania, you will have the freedom to explore at your own pace, take detours to discover hidden gems, and truly immerse yourself in the local culture.

Not only that, but the driving routes in Romania are some of the most scenic in Europe. From winding mountain roads to picturesque coastal drives, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views every step of the way.

** As of March 2024, Romania is now part of the Schengen Area.  Many nationalities can visit visa-free for up to 90 days.

If you require a visa, I recommend using  iVisa.com .   Their online visa processing service is quick, secure, and easy to use. **

Places To Visit In Romania

Romania is a big country, with lots to see and do.  Here are some of the best places to visit.

1. Timișoara

Timișoara is an attractive city in western Romania.  It’s the first place I ever visited in Romania – I initially came here to attend a friend’s wedding, and really liked the city.

Timișoara is located fairly close to the borders with Hungary and Serbia.  If you’re entering Romania overland from either of these countries, you will probably pass through.

However, there are plenty of other reasons to visit.

Despite being the third largest city in the country, the centre is fairly compact and easily walkable .

As well as having lots of beautiful architecture , Timișoara is a cultural centre , with many art galleries, and no shortage of music and theatre.

There’s a strong cafe culture and a thriving restaurant scene here.  Cafes, restaurants and bars spill out into the streets and line the edges of the pretty squares.

It is possible to take a day trip to Corvin Castle and Sibiu and back from Timișoara (more on these places below).  However, I’d only recommend this if you are really pressed for time…

See the below sections for suggested itineraries and a route planner to help you design your own perfect road trip.

2. Corvin Castle

Romania is known for its atmospheric fairytale castles.  Corvin Castle is one of the very best.

Built in the 14th and 15th centuries, this Gothic fortress is one of the best-preserved medieval structures in Romania.

Part luxury residence, part strategic stronghold, this stunning castle was home to the rulers of Transylvania for generations.

Complete with towers, turrets, buttresses, thick walls, crenelations, a drawbridge, and a range of other defences, it’s a perfect medieval castle – something straight out of a fairytale.

The Knights’ Hall is one of the most important areas inside the castle.  Its vaulted ceiling is intricately decorated with marble and adorned with medieval banners.

This impressive space served as a grand dining room, as well as a council room for noblemen.

There’s no end of myth, rumours, and legends surrounding Corvin castle.

As well as being supposedly haunted, Vlad the Impaler (AKA Count Dracula ) is said to have been imprisoned in the dungeons here for seven years.

(There’s little historical evidence to back this up, but it’s an incredibly atmospheric place to visit nonetheless.)

3. Cluj-Napoca

Cluj-Napoca (Cluj for short) is often referred to as the capital of Transylvania .

It’s a fairly lively, youthful city, with a large student population and loads of excellent (and excellent value) bars, restaurants and cafes.  Cluj also hosts several music festivals throughout the year.

Most of the main sights and activities are centred in and around the Old Town , which is easily walkable.

In the heart of the Old Town, Piața Unirii (Union Square) is a large medieval central plaza.

Here you will find several important landmarks, including St. Michael’s Church and the statue of the King of Hungary Matthias Corvinus.  (Prior to 1918, Cluj and much of western Romania was part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.)

The square is a great place to sit and people watch.  It also hosts a regular farmers’ market.

There are several museums and galleries in Cluj.  Some of the best of these include the National Museum of Transylvanian History, IAGA Contemporary Art Gallery, and Bánffy Palace.

Being a student town, Cluj has some great nightlife .  Head to Strada Piezișă (Piezisa Street) where you’ll find loads of lively bars and clubs.  The steampunk-inspired Enigma Bar is particularly fun.

There are several attractive green spaces in the city to take a wander or relax with a picnic.

Central Park is almost 200 years old, has an attractive lake, and is a popular place to hang out with locals of all ages.

Citadel Park , perched on a hill across the Someșul Mic River, offers beautiful views over Cluj.  It’s a great spot to sit and watch the sunset.

Day trips from Cluj-Napoca

The area around Cluj also has some great day trips , including the Hoia Forest (if you’re feeling brave), the Turda Salt Mine, and Rimetea.

The Hoia Forest is often described as one of the most haunted places in Europe.  Here the trees grow in strange clusters, with branches that are bent and twisted.

Deep in the heart of the forest, there is a perfectly circular clearing (called The Clearing) where no trees grow.

Scientists are not able to explain any of these phenomena.  However, many locals claim to have seen spectres , ghosts , UFOs and a range of other supernatural figures roaming the forest.

Some refuse to go anywhere near it.

The Turda Salt Mine (Salina Turda) is a massive, ancient salt mine that’s been converted into a Museum of Contemporary Art, a theatre and a futuristic amusement park.

It’s totally unique, and an incredible place to see.

The original mine itself is almost 1,000 years old , and spreads over an area of 27 square miles (70 sq km), over 120 metres below the surface.

The main chasm is truly vast , with dark vertical walls, stalagmites, and an underground lake which you can explore by renting a little rowing boat.

Rimetea is a picturesque village located about an hour from Cluj.  As well as being a pleasant place to explore in its own right, the main reason to come here is the fantastic hiking in the surrounding mountains.

One excellent hike takes in the dramatic Piatra Seciului mountain (also called the Rock of the Szeklers).

Rising 480 metres over Rimetea, from the summit you can enjoy breathtaking views over the surrounding area.

The trail takes about an hour to reach the summit.  It’s fairly steep and rocky in places but should be doable for anybody with a moderate level of fitness.  It’s definitely worth it, the views are spectacular.

4. Sighișoara

Sighișoara is a beautiful medieval town located in the heart of Transylvania.  If you only visit one pretty old town in Romania, I’d really recommend it be Sighișoara.

Perched on a hill, with walls, towers and an ancient citadel, this place looks like something straight out of a fairytale.

Wandering through its UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic centre is like stepping back in time.

Built and fortified initially by the Saxons as a defensive citadel in the 12th century, Sighișoara later grew to become a popular trading post and centre for artisans.

At its height, the town was home to several craft guilds , whose members further added to the fortifications.

The walled Old Town is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, bright pastel-coloured houses, and fortified towers.

Climb the  13th-century clock tower (Turnul cu Ceas) for amazing bird’s eye views out over the town and the surrounding mountains.

The tower contains a museum explaining the rich history of the town.  It’s also full of fascinating artefacts documenting the history of the town.

The real-world Count Dracula (Vlad III / Vlad the Impaler) was supposedly born in Sighișoara.

As well as the inevitable souvenir shops selling tacky Dracula knick-knacks, in the Old Town there is also a statue to the legendary ruler and Romanian national hero.

Be sure to climb the Scholar’s Staircase .  This enclosed wooden staircase was built in 1692 and connects the Old Town to the Church on the Hill (Biserica din Deal), one of the largest and most impressive Gothic churches in Transylvania.

From the churchyard, you also get great views out over the local area beyond the town.

Another 12th-century Saxon town in Transylvania, Sibiu is a friendly, relaxed place full of unique architecture and excellent food.

Most of Sibiu’s main sights are located within the cobblestoned Old Town , which is easily explorable on foot.

The most iconic feature of Sibiu is the large number of baroque-style houses that have eye-shaped windows built into their roofs.  In fact, these have caused Sibiu to be nicknamed “the City With Eyes ”.

Supposedly built to help with ventilation and cooling the upper floors, these “eyes” are quite unnerving.

Some locals claim that they were actually built to scare off enemies.  As you explore the streets of the Old Town, they really do seem to watch you!

Another famous landmark in Sibiu is the Bridge of Lies , which connects the Old Town to the New Town.  According to local folklore, this is a magical bridge that listens to people who cross it.

Apparently, whenever a lie is told, the bridge creaks and moans.  And if it hears a lie big enough, it will collapse.  (As you’ll probably gather, superstitious beliefs are pretty common in Romania!)

A town of two squares

The big main market square in Sibiu is intelligently named Large Square (Piata Mare).  It’s surrounded by a number of attractive buildings, including the Brukenthal Palace and the Holy Trinity Catholic Church.

In December, this square is also home to what is regularly referred to as one of the best Christmas markets in the world, with a giant decorated tree and dozens of stalls selling food, drinks, crafts, and toys.

Next to Large Square, you’ll find the (similarly well-named) Small Square ( Piata Mica ).  Here you’ll find a number of excellent restaurants spilling into the square, serving a range of different food from all over Europe.

This is a beautiful place to sit and enjoy a bite to eat or a drink, and watch the world go by.

The Lutheran Cathedral of Saint Mary is another highlight that you should visit in Sibiu.  You can climb to the top of the tower to a lookout deck which offers one of the best views in the city.

Food in Sibiu

Sibiu is often said to have some of the  best food in Romania .

One restaurant that I’d highly recommend is  Crama Sibiul Vechi , a traditional restaurant that specialises in authentic local dishes and has a fantastic atmosphere.

The portions are large, the waiters are friendly, and the atmosphere is fantastic.

Try the goulash and the  mici  sausages, or the peasant’s stew with polenta.  (The meat-free options are also decent here – not always a given in Romania.)

For a slightly cheaper (though equally delicious) gastronomic experience, check out  Cibin Market .  Here you’ll find vendors selling a range of tasty Romanian dishes.

6. Transfăgărășan Highway

No Romania road trip would be complete without tackling “ the best driving road in the world ” – the mighty Transfăgărășan .

Brought to fame by the TV show Top Gear, this road really is epic.

Winding its way up and over the Carpathian mountains (i.e. the Transylvanian Alps), the Transfăgărășan has hundreds of corners , steep hairpins , and some seriously incredible views .

At the top of the highest pass lies the glacial Balea Lake , where there is a little mountain resort surrounded by towering snowy peaks.  It’s a stunning place with world-class scenery.

If the weather conditions allow, there are some excellent hiking routes up into the mountains which start from here.

Also, check out the Balea Waterfall hike, which starts from a little further down the road.

Other highlights along the way that are worth stopping at include Poienari Castle and the Vidraru Dam .

The road itself isn’t actually too difficult to drive, and is well-paved throughout.  But make sure you keep your eyes on the road (it’s hard, the views are insane).

And don’t try to take the corners too fast… some of them are very sharp, with steep drops!

You could easily drive the whole 150km stretch in one day.  But, if you have the time, I’d highly recommend taking a couple of days to do it.

That way, you can really take your time, maybe do a short hike, and enjoy the spectacular views.

One important thing to bear in mind: the Transfăgărășan road is only open between June (or sometimes July) and October .

Outside of these months, due to the elevation, ice and snow make the higher stretches totally impassable.

You can check whether it’s open on  transfagarasan.travel .

7. Bran Castle (“Dracula’s Castle”)

Romania (and especially Transylvania) has no shortage of beautiful, atmospheric castles.  Perhaps the most iconic of these is Bran Castle .

Built between 1377 and 1382, and commonly referred to as “ Dracula’s Castle ”, this is often said to be the influence for the novel “Dracula” by Bram Stoker.

As it turns out, this probably actually isn’t true, as Stoker never visited the castle, and Count Vlad (the Impaler) probably never did either.

Some people claim that Vlad Dracula was also imprisoned here.  However, as with the legends surrounding Corvin Castle (above), most historians disagree.

Either way, the castle is stunning and definitely worth a visit.  Just make sure you arrive early in the day, to avoid the crowds.

Bran Castle’s natural setting is awesome, perched on the top of a rocky hill in the Carpathian mountains.

Its pointed tower and turrets, red-tiled roofs, lush gardens, and mountainous backdrop are sure to make this a highlight of any road trip in Romania.

Inside, the castle contains lots of beautiful medieval furniture and artwork .  On the top floor, there is also an exhibition on Dracula which explains many of the legends and myths.

(Yet) another beautiful medieval city, Brașov is full of atmospheric cobblestone streets, Saxon fortifications, gothic churches, and cosy old cafes and restaurants.

It’s bigger than both Sighișoara and Sibiu, so there are more things to see and do.

That said, Brașov is very popular with tourists (both local and foreign), so it’s also usually more crowded than the other places.

Brașov is one of the most important historical cities in Romania.  One of the best ways to learn about its fascinating history is to take a free walking tour .

Most walking tours start from the Council Square (Piața Sfatului), in the heart of the Old Town.

They cover most of the city’s main highlights, including the Biserica Neagra (Black Church, the largest medieval church in the Balkans), Catherine’s Gate , and the Strada Sforii (Rope Street, believed to be the narrowest in Europe).

The tours themselves are free, but the (excellent) guides rely on tips, which are gratefully received.

Day trips from Brașov

As well as exploring the town itself, Brașov is a great place to base yourself for a few days to visit some of the nearby castles (including Bran Castle – see above), and Peles Castle, one of the most beautiful castles in the world.

There’s also some fantastic hiking in the Carpathian Mountains , which rise dramatically over the city.

After several days of driving, this is a good opportunity to stretch your legs and blow away the cobwebs.

You can hike (or take a cable car) up Mount Tampa for a stunning birds-eye view over Brașov and its surroundings.

Mount Tampa is also the location for the large “Brașov” sign (which looks a lot like the “Hollywood” sign in the hills above Los Angeles).

The hike up to the summit of Mount Tampa takes about an hour and follows a well-marked trail.  The cable car operates from 9:30 am to 4 pm and costs 16 RON (about €3) for a return ticket.

If you’re looking for some more challenging hikes , the nearby Piatra Craiului Mountains are home to several excellent hiking trails, with something for all abilities.

Slightly closer to Brașov itself, the Seven Ladders Canyon has a hike which takes in several beautiful waterfalls.

At one point on this hike, you need to climb a metal ladder bolted to a cliff face (!), but otherwise the trail is fairly straightforward.

9. Vama Veche

Vama Veche is Romania’s most famous party town.  Located on the Black Sea, only a few kilometres from the Bulgarian border, this little place is  carefree , hippie-spirited , and lots of fun .

Between May and mid-September, the whole place effectively turns into one giant festival .  On most days you’ll find a range of live music, exhibitions, and all-night parties on the beach.

Every morning at sunrise , speakers on the beach play Ravel’s ‘Bolero‘ and people (most of whom have been up all night) gather to celebrate the start of a new day.  It’s surreal – and awesome!

As well as all the revelry and merrymaking, Vama Veche also has some great seafood restaurants and beautiful coastal walks .

You can hire a bike and explore more of the Black Sea coast, which has many secluded beaches where you can camp or just spend a day.  You can even cycle into Bulgaria if you so wish.

For a more detailed guide, check out this post on visiting Vama Veche .

10. Bucharest

In all likelihood, you will (either) start and/or finish your Romanian road trip in the capital city, Bucharest .

Many people pick up their car at the airport and head straight out of Bucharest to explore Transylvania and the rest of the country.  I think this is a mistake.

Bucharest might not be the most picturesque city in Europe, but it is full of amazing things to see and do.

Underneath the surface of its austere communist-era architecture and derelict apartment blocks lies a wealth of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered.

The city has loads of quirky hidden bars, excellent restaurants, hipster coffee shops, trendy brunch spots, cultural attractions, beautifully landscaped parks, and stunning Orthodox churches.

Given its size and rich history, Bucharest is another city where it’s a great idea to take a (free) walking tour .  Most of these start in front of the Romanian Athenaeum building, a famous concert hall just north of the Old Town.

Palatul Parlamentului

The massive Palatul Parlamentului (Palace of Parliament) in the centre of the city is the political and administrative heart of Romania.

It’s not exactly beautiful, but this giant brutalist structure is certainly impressive.

Built by the former communist dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu, the Palatul is over 80 metres tall, with 1,100 rooms, and a floor area of over 360,000 square metres (3,900,000 sq ft).

It’s also (apparently) the heaviest building in the world, weighing roughly 4 billion kilograms !

You can take a guided tour of the Palace.  I’ve not actually done this, but have read accounts saying that it’s worthwhile.  Call in advance (preferably a few days beforehand) to secure a place.

Alternatively, reserve online through GetYourGuide .

Other things to see and do in Bucharest

There are many Orthodox churches and monasteries in Bucharest.  The most famous and beautiful of these are the New St. George Church and the Stavropoleos Monastery .

Both are located in the heart of the Old Town, an easy 5-minute walk from each other, and also fairly close to the Palatul Parlamentului.

Other highlights in Bucharest include :

• Revolution Square:  a central plaza that has been the scene of many key events in Romania’s history, including the overthrow of the communist dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu.
• Cișmigiu Park:  a landscaped botanical garden with winding pathways, benches and a boating lake (which is transformed into a skating rink in the winter).
• Caru’ cu bere:  the oldest restaurant and brewery in Bucharest – with a stunning interior and delicious, reasonably priced food.
• Cărturești Carusel (Carousel of Light) bookshop:  one of the most beautiful and famous bookshops in the world.
• Obar Market:  the largest market in the city – so much amazing food here!

(Romania has strong cultural and economic ties to Italy.  In Bucharest, you’ll find a huge range of authentic Italian food, including some of the best pizza outside of Naples .)

Suggested Itineraries

The perfect itinerary for your Romania road trip depends on two main factors:

1.) How much time do you have?

2.) Where do you want to start (and finish)?

Where should you start?

If you’re flying into Romania , it makes sense to start your road trip in either Timișoara, Cluj-Napoca, or Bucharest.

These all have international airports serving a range of destinations throughout Europe and (in the case of Bucharest) further afield.

The best option for people on a tight budget might be to start and finish in Bucharest.

Flights to (and from) Bucharest tend to be cheaper than the other cities.

Bucharest airport also has the largest selection of car hire companies , which means that rentals tend to be cheaper here too.

And there’d be no “one-way” car hire fee (more on this below).

However, bear in mind that you would need to double back on yourself at the end of the trip in order to get back to Bucharest.

Romania is a fairly big country, so this might not be the best choice for people who are limited by time.

Click here to find the cheapest flights to Romania.

One-way rentals

An alternative (potentially better) option would be to hire a car in one city and return it in another.  This is sometimes referred to as a “one-way rental”.

If you’d like to visit all of the locations I’ve mentioned here, geographically it makes sense to fly into Bucharest and out of Timișoara (or vice versa).

That way, there’s no doubling back on yourself, which cuts back on the time you need to spend in the car.

The main disadvantage of this option is that it might end up costing a bit more .

Flights to/from Timișoara are often (though not always) pricier than Bucharest, and you would also need to pay a “one-way” car rental fee to drop off at a different location from where you started.

Still, unless the extra cost is prohibitive, I’d still recommend renting a car in one city and dropping it off in another .

This avoids you needing to backtrack, and will probably be a more effective use of the time you have for your trip.

Note: while I’ve listed Bucharest as the departure point for all of these itineraries, you could also them in reverse if the flights work out better that way around.

1-week Romania road trip itinerary

With only one week for your Romanian road trip, you won’t be able to visit all of the places mentioned in this post.

However, you’ll still be able to see a fair amount with 1 week in Romania, provided you are efficient with your time and don’t spend too long in each place.

My suggested one-week itinerary is as follows:

• FLY into Bucharest
• Days 1-2: Bucharest OR Vama Veche
• Days 3-4: Brașov (visit either Bran Castle or Peles Castle on the way)
• Days 5-6: Sibiu OR Sighișoara
• Day 7: Cluj-Napoca OR Timișoara
• FLY out of either Cluj-Napoca or Timișoara

10-day Romania road trip itinerary

If you have 10 days in Romania, the itinerary is similar to the above.  However, you can either spend a little longer in each place or visit both Sighișoara and Sibiu.

You’ll also probably have time to tackle the mighty Transfăgărășan. 🙂

Suggested itinerary:

• Day 5: Drive the Transfăgărășan Highway on the way from Brașov to Sibiu
• Days 5-6: Sibiu
• Days 7-8: Sighișoara
• Days 9-10: Cluj-Napoca OR Timișoara

2-week Romania road trip itinerary

With 2 weeks in Romania, you can see even more, and also take your time.

This will also give you the chance to EITHER see all of Bucharest, Vama Veche, Cluj-Napoca and Timișoara OR pick two or three and spend an extra night in each.

Suggested 2-week itinerary:

• Days 1-2: Bucharest
• Days 3-4: Vama Veche
• Days 5-6: Brașov (visit either Bran Castle or Peles Castle on the way)
• Day 7: Drive the Transfăgărășan Highway on the way from Brașov to Sibiu
• Days 7-8: Sibiu
• Days 9-10: Sighișoara
• Days 11-12: Cluj-Napoca
• Days 13-14: Timișoara (visit Corvin Castle on the way)
• FLY out of Timișoara

3-week Romania road trip itinerary

If you are not limited in time, three weeks would be optimal.  In this time, you’ll really get a good feel for the country.

I’d suggest a similar itinerary for three weeks as for two.  But spend an extra night in each place and don’t rush.  (I try to follow a three-night-minimum rule wherever I can.)

And if you spot something cool along the way, you can feel free to stop and explore a little. 🙂

Suggested 3-week itinerary:

• Days 1-3: Bucharest
• Days 4-6: Vama Veche
• Days 7-9: Brașov (visit both Bran Castle AND Peles Castle on the way – why not)
• Day 10: Drive the Transfăgărășan Highway on the way from Brașov to Sibiu
• Days 10-12: Sibiu
• Days 13-15: Sighișoara
• Days 16-18: Cluj-Napoca
• Days 19-21: Timișoara (visit Corvin Castle on the way)

Driving In Romania – Practical Information & Tips

Here’s some additional information and tips to help you plan your trip.

• Basic Romanian Phrases For Travel
• Is Transylvania A Real Place?

Is it safe to drive in Romania?

In general, Romania is a very safe country to travel in.

That said, you should always keep your wits about you when driving in Romania.  It’s not uncommon to see people walking, riding horses, or driving ox carts on the side of the road.

Just because you’re driving on a major highway/motorway doesn’t mean that people won’t try to cross it on foot!

Also, keep an eye out for bicycles, deer, cows, other random livestock, and animal herders crossing the road.

Road quality in Romania

Most main roads in Romania are well-paved and in excellent condition.

In  rural areas , the road quality tends to deteriorate.  Dirt tracks with giant potholes are common between villages outside of the main population centres.

However, all of the places mentioned in this guide are connected by good roads.  So don’t worry about that.

Romanian driving laws

In Romania, as in the rest of continental Europe, you drive on the right-hand side of the road.

As well as being obvious common sense, wearing a seatbelt at all times is required by law when driving through Romania.

Romania has a zero-tolerance policy towards drink driving.  Don’t do it.

Most drivers in Romania are fairly considerate.  However, not everybody likes to obey the speed limit, and you will probably encounter the odd aggressive driver following way too close behind you.  Just pull over and let them zoom past.

Speed limits are usually (though not always) displayed.

In general, the speed limit in Romania tends to be 50 km/h on urban roads and in villages, 90 km/h for main roads, and 130 km/h on highways.  But keep an eye out for any signs to the contrary.

The police sometimes do random speed checks on the side of the road.  They will give you an on-the-spot fine if they catch you speeding.

By law, you must not use your car horn between 10 pm and 6 am in Romania.  In some places (including Bucharest), it’s forbidden at all times.

The emergency number in Romania is 112.

Parking is not usually a problem in Romania, and it’s typically fairly easy to find a place to park.

However, bear in mind that you need to pay to park most places in the centre of towns and cities, and especially near popular tourist sights.

It’s usually very cheap though, typically less than 5 RON / hour (€1).  Be sure to carry some loose change , often it’s not possible to pay by card.

While not always enforced, theoretically you are only allowed to park facing in the direction of traffic (i.e. on the right side of the road).

Renting a car in Romania

Renting a car in Romania is usually quite straightforward, comparable to most other places in Europe.

Prices tend to be fairly affordable .  The cheapest rates tend to be found when picking up the car from a major airport (e.g. Bucharest airport).

I recommend using Rentalcars.com to find the best deals on car hire in Romania.

Most of the major international car hire companies operate in Romania (Hertz, Sixt, Europcar, etc.).  However, these tend to be pricier than local Romanian companies.

I tend to recommend going with a local company to save money when you rent a car in Romania.  However, be sure to check the reviews and ratings online before you book.  I’ve used Klass Wagen and would recommend them.

Requirements for renting a car in Romania

To rent a car in Romania, all drivers must be at least 21 years old and have held their licence for at least a year .  Any driver under the age of 25 may incur a young driver surcharge.

There’s also often an additional fee for adding extra drivers.

The maximum age for hiring a car in Romania is 70 years old .  Unfortunately, I’m not sure if there’s any way around this.

As is the case almost everywhere, one-way rentals (i.e. picking up the car in place A and dropping it off in place B) tend to incur additional fees .

Also, check with the company whether they actually allow one-way rentals before you commit, if this is something you want to do.  (Most do, but check.)

Car hire companies typically also require you to provide a credit card (for the deposit) in the name of the lead driver.

Some online sources claim that you need an International Driving Licence (/ International Driving Permit / IDP) to hire a car in Romania.  This isn’t my experience – I’ve never been asked to show one.

That said, IDPs are typically very cheap (5 GBP in the UK).  So it’s generally a good idea to have one anyway, especially if your driving licence is from a non-EU country.

Money & Budget

For getting to Romania, you can often find extremely cheap flights from other cities in Europe. 

Compared with most other countries in Europe, Romania is a fairly cheap country to travel in.

The currency in Romania is the leu (abbreviated, bizarrely, to RON ).  Currently 5 RON = €1.

Of course, car hire and accommodation will likely be your main costs.  Assuming you rent a smaller, budget-friendly car and stay in modest places, your Romanian road trip shouldn’t break the bank.

For a small car, rented at a major airport (e.g. Bucharest), you can expect to pay around €30 per day , including insurance, breakdown cover and unlimited mileage.

Petrol costs slightly less in Romania than in Western Europe (between €1.20 – €1.40 per litre).  Entrance tickets rarely cost more than a few euros.

If you stay in budget hotels, modest Airbnbs or guesthouses, and do a mixture of eating out and cooking your own food, you can probably get by on around €40-50 per day (excluding car costs).

FYI: here is a helpful article on how to earn airline miles (including Avios) when you use Airbnb .

If you have a larger budget, in Romania you can live in relative luxury for a fraction of what it would cost in, say, France or the UK.

With €100 per day, you could stay in smart hotels and eat out for most meals.

Best Time Of Year To Visit Romania

Romania has a classic continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters.

Summer (June-August) is the most popular time to visit Romania .  Temperatures are usually between 25-35°C, the weather is fairly predictable and the sun shines most days.

Prices are usually higher in the summer though, as most people consider this to be the best time to visit Romania.

The more popular tourist sights (Brașov, Bran Castle, Sibiu, Sighișoara) can become a bit crowded, and accommodation gets booked up in advance.

Note: if you want to drive the Transfăgărășan Highway, you need to come in the summer.  It’s closed for most of the rest of the year, due to heavy snow and ice.  Check whether it’s open first on  transfagarasan.travel .

Spring and Autumn (March-May and September-November) can also be good times to visit Romania.  Prices are often lower and there are fewer crowds.

However, the weather tends to be more unpredictable.

Winter (December-February) is a great time to go skiing in Romania.  But for a road trip, less so .

The mountains, medieval towns and fairytale castles might look impossibly beautiful covered in snow.  However, the roads can become quite treacherous in the snow and ice.

Most main highways are gritted and cleared.  But as soon as you turn onto the more minor roads, the driving can get pretty tricky (and dangerous).

Also, bear in mind that many tourist sights, guesthouses, and restaurants shut down over the winter.

That said, there are still plenty of amazing things to do in the winter in Romania .

Just be sure to check in advance to make sure everything’s open and accessible by road (especially in the more mountainous and out-of-the-way places).

Where To Stay

As already mentioned, Romania is a pretty affordable country to visit by European standards.

You’ll find a range of accommodation for every budget, from extremely cheap hostels to lavish hotels and spas.

Below I’ve listed a few suggested places to stay for each location.

• Re-Born Hostel (budget)
• Mercure Hotel (mid-upper range)

Cluj-Napoca

• This Airbnb (budget)
• Hotel Platinia (upper range, fantastic)
• Hotel Bulevard (mid-range)
• Fronius Residence (mid-upper range)
• Republique Hotel (mid-range)
• Studio Coresi (budget)
• Belfort Hotel (mid-range)
• Safrano Palace (upper range)
• Elga’s Punk Rock Hostel (see this article )
• Hilton Garden Inn (mid-range)
• The Marmorosch, Autograph Collection (luxury upper range)

I hope you’ve found this article helpful.  If you have any questions or comments, let me know below.

** Love road trips?  Me too.  Check out some of my other road trip-related posts, including:

• The Perfect Albania Road Trip
• Ethiopia : A Road Trip Like No Other
• Oman Road Trip : An Epic Arabian Adventure
• Driving From Dubai To Oman : Everything You Need To Know
• Best Places To Visit In Northern Turkey **

If you’d like some extra help planning a trip to Romania, why not hire me as your  Personal Travel Planner ?

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Alex Tiffany

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I see you were brave enough to drive through Transylvania, Alex. Good for you. I was born and raised in Romania, so I know how poor its infrastructure is. Even so, it’s a really beautiful country and truly worth visiting. It holds so many undiscovered treasures! Next time you go, visit the regions of Bucovina and Maramures. Safe travels! Anda

Thank you for your kind words Anda 🙂 I loved Romania and can’t wait to explore more of the country. Will definitely check out Bucovina and Maramures as you suggest, thanks!

Hi Alex, I loved your guide, but there is something that it’s confusing me a lot: “Drive the Transfăgărășan on the way from Sibiu to Sighișoara”. I mean, isn’t the road somewhere else, like between Sibiu and Bucharest? Why mentioning Sighișoara if it’s in the north? Unless I am completely on the wrong track 😀

Hey Marco – glad you like the guide. Thanks so much for pointing this out – you’re totally correct, that was a mistake on my end. It should’ve been Brasov>Transfagarasan>Sibiu. I’ve updated it now! Hope you have an awesome trip!

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• I’m Alex Tiffany.  Former corporate city robot; lifelong travel addict.
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10 Stops for the Perfect Romania Road Trip Itinerary

Note : This is a guest post by Rachelle Gordon of Adventure is Never Far Away

Nothing is better than hitting the open road with the promise of good times ahead: discovering new favorites and hidden gems along the road; creating new memories and cultivating friendships with your travel partners; laughing and smiling along the way as you ramble around country roads and speed down metropolitan highways.

If life is a highway, then a road trip is the pulse that pumps the heart of every adventure-seeker. Road tripping through Romania is an adventure guaranteed to be a memorable experience.

There are so many corners of Romania just waiting to be discovered and fallen in love with. If you are heading to Romania and want to embark on an epic road trip, here are 10 stops for the perfect Romania road trip itinerary (and don’t forget to pack appropriately for your road trip !)

10 Essential Places to Visit on a Romania Road Trip

“Dracula’s Castle” is one of the most iconic destinations in Romania, and no Romanian road trip would be complete without it. Bran Castle is widely believed to be the influence for Bram Stoker’s classic novel, “Dracula.”

Although Bram Stoker never stepped foot in the castle and Vlad the Impaler’s actual fortress is miles away, Bran Castle has an amazing history and worthy of a visit. The iconic red roof is unmistakably striking against the lush green mountains of Transylvania and Wallachia.

Bran was named for the Turkish word ‘gate’ and the castle has provided protection over Bran town and its surroundings for centuries. The first documented mention of Bran castle was recorded in 1377 and the fortress has been used in defense against the Ottoman Empire in the 15th century. As soon as you walk into the castle, you can feel the whispers of history from within the walls.

Insider tip: Arrive early to avoid the crowds. Spend some time wandering around the grounds just outside of the castle, soaking in the sheer grandeur of the location.

Perhaps one of the most recognizable castles in the world, Peleș Castle is nestled in the Carpathian Mountains near Sinaia.

Built in the late 1800s for Romania’s first king, King Carol I from Germany, Peleș originally served as a hunting lodge but is now considered a national monument and international treasure. Perched high in the mountains, the ascent into the courtyard is enough to set your excitement on overdrive. Your eyes are instantly arrested as you glimpse Peleș through the trees.

Touring Peleș Castle is a must-do during your Romania road trip. King Carol I approved building plans that included one-hundred and sixty rooms: from bedrooms to theaters, concert halls, weapons rooms, libraries, offices, card rooms, bathrooms, painting rooms, tea rooms, children’s playrooms, meeting rooms, breakfast rooms, and formal dining rooms.

But the best part is that each room, as well as the foyers and hallways, were originally decorated in differing styles, each drawing influences from the French, Moors, Florentines, Venetians, and Turks. Whenever you turn a corner, your eyes are assaulted with tapestries, a fantasyland-like architectural design of doors and staircases, and more crystal than anyone can imagine.

Insider tip: Arrive early for the tour. If the lines for the English-speaking are too long, hop into the shorter Romanian-speaking line. Even if you don’t speak Romanian, there are signs along the way in English in each room.

Have you ever seen the Hollywood sign in California? A stop in Brasov to check out the Romanian equivalent is a great addition to your Romania road trip itinerary.

High atop Tampa Mountain and visible from just about anywhere in the city, the gleaming white letters of BRASOV beckon visitors to this medieval city. If you need a break from your road trip, hike or take the cable car up to the sign for an unobstructed view of the city.

Spend your day roaming around the cobblestone streets, lined with lively cafes, busy shops, and street carts selling sweet-smelling kurtoskalacs.

Catch an organ recital or performance in the Biserica Neagra (Black Church), the center focal point of Brasov’s main square. Although the church itself isn’t black, it earned the title after a fire in 1689 darkened the walls from the smoke. On the exterior, see if you can find the grooves in the stone where residents used to sharpen their swords.

Insider tip: Brasov is known as the gateway to Transylvania and is a great place to make your home base!

Castelul de Lut

Tucked away in the Transylvanian countryside of Romania lies the Castelul de Lut Valea Zanelor, translated to “Clay Castle of the Valley of Fairies.”

This quirky, soon-to-be-open hotel is made entirely of clay, straw, and sand, with all 10 rooms having their own style. The structure was built by craftsmen from Maramures, a region in Transylvania known for beautiful wooden churches. If you want to experience something truly unique, a stop at Castelul de Lut should be on your Romania road trip itinerary.

As you make your way through the 10 unique rooms, marveling at the style and individuality of each one, you’re instantly transported to another time. Another reality. The building looks like something out of Alice in Wonderland or The Hobbit.

Insider tip: After soaking up as much of Castelul de Lut as you possibly can, head over to the other side of the property and sit under the shady trees at the banks of the babbling brook to experience a true Romanian countryside.

If you’re looking for one of the most picturesque cities in Romania, the historical town of Sighișoara (sig-ee-SHWAH-ra) is most definitely it! Sighișoara is like something straight out of a fairytale: a walled city center, colorful buildings, cobble-stoned streets.

Hundreds of years of history breathe out of the old town, transporting you back to the medieval times. The city center looks like a box of brightly-colored crayons exploded all over the buildings, making it fun and easy to find your way around. Head to the old town center, which also happens to be a UNESCO heritage site and immerse yourself in the colors, history, and personality of the town.

If you’re a fan of Dracula, Sighișoara is surely your mecca as Vlad III (Tepes) was said to be born in the old town. Tour his supposed birth home and learn more about his role in shaping Romania’s future. Spend time climbing to the top of the clock tower for a bird’s eye view of the city. Check out the defensive towers situated around the city, each one representing a craftsman guild: tinsmith, butcher, bootmaker, etc.

Insider tip: the early morning sun makes the colors of the city pop. Spend some time in the morning wandering around the cobblestoned streets and enjoying the stillness.

A visit to the city where the houses have eyes should be on your Romania road trip itinerary.

Sibiu was built in the 12th century by German Transylvanian Saxons and the houses in the old square have a particular unnerving feature on their roofs: eyes! The eye-shaped windows were added to houses to assist in cooling the attics, but they still give the impression that the houses are watching over the old town.

Sibiu is also home to the Bridge of Lies, an iconic landmark and full of legends. The legend of the Bridge of Lies says that the bridge itself has ears and unexplained mystical powers. The bridge listens to those who walk across it, and creaks when a lie is told. The bigger the lie, the more the bridge creaks. And if you tell the biggest lie of all, legend says the bridge will collapse. Although the legend is fanciful, locals are still known to avoid the Bridge of Lies.

Insider tip: Sibiu has many dilapidated doors that lead to beautiful courtyards. Peek through a few!

Corvin Castle

If you’re a Harry Potter fan, a stop at Corvin Castle in Hunedoara should definitely be on your Romania road trip itinerary: it looks like Hogwarts!

Originally built during the 14th century (exact date unknown) for Charles I, King of Hungary and Croatia until 1342, the fortress acted as a keep and strategic stronghold.

When it became the home to John Hunyadi, regent-governor during the mid-1400s, Corvin Castle underwent the first of many transformations. Over the next few centuries, wings, halls, rooms, and towers were constructed for reasons both aesthetically-pleasing and defensive.

Now known as one of the Seven Wonders of Romania, Corvin Castle is one of the largest castles in Europe and probably one of the least well-known outside of Eastern Europe.

And if you’re fond of historical legends, Corvin Castle has its fair share. One such legend states that Vlad the Impaler, Bram Stoker’s inspiration for his novel Dracula spent 7 years in the dungeons of Corvin Castle. While this isn’t true and has absolutely no physical evidence to support the theory, visitors are still told the tale.

Insider tip: Take time to explore every nook and cranny of the castle. Each view from the towers is different and breathtaking.

Transfagarasan Highway

Since you’re already on a Romania road trip, why not head over to the Transfagarasan Highway?

The Transfagarasan Highway is a strip of road that winds through the Carpathian mountain range, connecting Sibiu County with Arges County, about 150 miles northwest of Bucharest. The section of the Carpathian mountains the Transfagarasan Highway cuts through is sometimes called the “Transylvanian Alps.”

Put your vehicle’s top down and get ready to drive one of the best highways in the world, according to the guys from Top Gear. Hundreds of corners and hairpin turns along an impressive mountain range, leading up to Balea Lake and one of the most stunning views. Don’t drive the Transfagarasan Highway to make good time: drive it to have a good time. Here are some tips for driving it!

Insider tip: There aren’t any suitable rail guards as you drive up the highway, so take your time. Heed the speed limit and only drive if you’re comfortable.

No road trip to Romania would be complete without a stop in the country’s capital. Bucharest is one of the most underrated and surprising capital cities in Europe.

The country itself is still waking up to tourism, so the capital city still has that raw, yet-to-be-discovered feel. From hidden bars and passageways to lush city parks and green spaces to an Instagram-famous bookstore, Bucharest has a little bit of everything.

At first glance, you see communist-style buildings adorning some of the main plazas, run-down apartment complexes tucked into corners, derelict and vacant shells, all encompassed in an earth-toned color palette. But if you take the time to look a little bit deeper and understand a little more about this city, it just might surprise you how much you are drawn to it.

Take a free walking tour. Follow the #experiencebucharest Instagram posts to some of the most photogenic locations you didn’t expect to find in post-communist Romania. Rent a bike and see if you can understand the love Romanians have for green spaces.

Insider tip: Ask a local for restaurant recommendations. It’s always a great idea to go local!

As you arrive in the city of Rasnov, your eyes will immediately be drawn towards the heavens…where you’ll find the town name spelled out in white letters, similar to neighboring Brasov.

The fortress dates back over 700 years and has a strong history as a successful defensive point. The fortress was its own self-sufficient community, serving as a place of refuge and safety during attacks, rather than being a getaway for royals.

The fortress has been restored recently, making it one of the best-kept ruins of its kind throughout Romania. Get lost in the maze of streets within the fortress. Pop into some of the restored structures and imagine what it must have been like back in the medieval times. Climb up on one of the high ridges and take in the breathtaking views of the valley. Walk along the fortification walls and fully appreciate how difficult it would have been for invaders to penetrate the inner part of the stronghold.

Insider tip: Parking can be tricky, but if you follow the signage, you shouldn’t have any issues.

Romania is full of small villages that motorists will inevitably pass through along their journey, where shepherds still tend their livestock, little old ladies sit on their front benches to share the latest gossip, and haystacks far outnumber the local population.

Be sure to spend time exploring these small villages, because they won’t be around forever. Romania is swiftly developing now that it has been able to finally shed the old skin of its communist past. During your Romania road trip, visit the villages where you can still find fresh homemade bread and butter on the table every night, where a traffic jam involves horses and buggies hauling hay and firewood, and where life is simply beautiful.

About the Author

Rachelle Gordon is the writer behind the travel blog Adventure is Never Far Away. You can follow her on Facebook , Pinterest , Twitter , and Instagram .

Stephanie has been living in and traveling around the Balkans for the past three years. She’s written for National Geographic Online , appeared on CNN Arabic and in the New York Times , and ridden more Balkan buses than is good for a person.

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The Perfect Romania Itinerary: 2 Week Road Trip!

Table of Contents

This post may contain affiliate links to things like tours, hotels, Amazon associates and products. These help me earn a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Planning a Romania road trip? You’re going to have a blast. I can’t wait to share my Romania itinerary including all my tips and tricks from my 2 weeks in Romania.

However beautiful Romania looks in photos, it’s even more picturesque up close. Romania is about wild untouched wilderness and charming, cobbled cities dating back centuries. As I travelled through the countryside, watching people using horses and carts for agriculture, I realised how traditional Romania really is. It’s like stepping back in time!

ROMANIA ESSENTIALS Getting there: flight ( Skyscanner ) Car hire: Rentalcars.com Tours & activities: GetYourGuide / Viator Accomodation: Booking.com / Hostelworld.com Food activities: EatWith

Romania’s recent history is dominated by Communist rule, dictators and corrupt governments. Only in recent years has life started getting better for the locals and they’re happy to talk to you about it. Learning about the history and culture was a highlight of my 2 weeks in Romania! I believe a 2 week Romania road trip is optimum to get the most out of this beautiful nation. But if you don’t have that long, I’ll also be sharing a Romania itinerary for 1 week and another for 10 days. Overall, Romania is a safe, friendly and beautiful country to explore. What are you waiting for?

Read next: 18 Romania travel tips from a solo female traveller

Best time of year for a Romania road trip

The best time of the year to visit Romania is subjective depending whether you’re a sun-seeker or skier. I enjoyed my summer visit but you can visit year-round as long as you’re prepared. Spring (March-May) – the weather can be grey and unpredictable until May when temperatures rise to averages of 23°C. Summer (June-August) – average temperatures rest between 26 and 35°C. The sun is shining and Romania is busy with increased prices. You could consider squeezing the Black Sea beaches into your Romania itinerary. Autumn (September-November) – days get shorter and temperatures drop but it’s a good season to explore Romania with fewer crowds and cheaper prices. Winter (December-February) – temperatures hover around 0°C. It’s the perfect season for mulled wine, hearty Romanian food and skiing in mountain resorts. Romania looks straight out of a fairytale when dusted in snow.

Where to begin your Romanian road trip?

Bucharest: The most common way to arrive in Romania is by flying into Bucharest. I use Skyscanner to find the best flight prices. Cluj Napoca: Known as the ‘capital of Transylvania’, many travellers hire a car in Cluj and return it in Bucharest, stopping at destinations along the way. Timisoara: If you’ve been travelling in Central Europe previously, you might be coming overland from Hungary or Slovakia. In this case, you’ll likely arrive into Romania’s most western city, Timisoara by land. I arrived via the FlixBus (but there’s also an international airport).

Romania car hire requirements

• You must be at least 21 years of age
• There will be a surcharge if you’re under 25
• You must have held your licence for a minimum of 12 months
• An international drivers licence is required for non-EU citizens
• You must show proof of identity for example a valid passport
• The same documents are required for each additional driver
• The maximum age for renting a car is usually 70.

Romania car hire tips

• Use Rentalcars.com to find the best value car rentals. Prices start from €110 a week.
• Expect to pay an extra third to drop off at a different location (but it’s worth it for the convenience).
• Expect to pay extra per additional driver.
• Manual cars are the norm in Romania. You may be able to hire automatic cars for a surcharge.
• Make sure to book early in peak season to get the best prices.
• There are usually fees involved when it comes to crossing European borders.
• Make sure to get travel insurance. I use True Traveller  (for UK & European travellers).   Hey Mundo  is the best option for other nationalities, while Safety Wing  is great for digital nomads.
• Take photos of the car, mileage and petrol gauge before leaving the rental place
• Have your proof of insurance and ID close at hand when driving in Romania.

Romania driving tips

• Romanians drive on the right.
• The speed limit in cities is 30mph/50kph.
• The speed limit on highways is 74mph/120kph.
• The World Economic Forum ranked Romania 120 out of 137 for road quality – i.e not very good!
• Roads in urban areas are in good condition but those in rural areas aren’t so good.
• Snow removal is intermittent so drive with caution during the winter. Ensure you have winter tyres for icy roads.
• You can only park on the right, facing in the direction of traffic.
• Traffic laws are strict in Romania. Police can serve on-the-spot fines and confiscate a driver’s licence for up to 3 months.
• Children under 12 may not sit in the front seat.
• There’s plenty of parking in Romania. Expect to pay around €1 (5 RON) per hour.
• Read more Romania driving tips here .

Can you enjoy this Romania itinerary by public transport?

Yes! All the destinations listed in this blog are connected by train or bus. Book trains on the  CFC Calatori website and buses on the Autogari website. The only inaccessible location is the Transfagarasan Highway . But you can take a Transfagarasan highway day tour from Brasov or Bucharest. You can also use BlaBlaCar which is a carpool service, great for getting about cheaply in Romania. Romania public transport tip: be smart with your journeys. Romanian trains may be notoriously slow but most of the places in this Romania itinerary are close together. Travel early in the morning or during the evening to see a city the day you arrive.

How long to spend on a Romanian road trip?

Of course, I would recommend two weeks in Romania. This is how long I spent and there’s still loads I missed. But if time’s tight, you can spend one week in Romania and still catch the highlights. With this amount of time, I’d suggest taking a Transylvania road trip rather than going off the beaten track. 10 days in Romania is an even better amount of time.

1 week Romania road trip itinerary

Start in Bucharest or Cluj Napoca and tour Transylvania. Brasov is a must. For a 7 day Romania itinerary, I’d suggest picking Sibiu OR Sighisoara or visiting one as a day trip from the other.

• Day 1 – Bucharest
• Days 2-3 – Brasov (visit Peles Castle en route)
• Days 4-5 – Sibiu (or Sighisoara)
• Day 6-was7 – Cluj Napoca.

10 day Romania road trip itinerary

During a 10 day Romania itinerary, you’ll have time for both Sibiu and Sighisoara. You can relax and take your time.

• Days 1-2 – Bucharest
• Dasy 3-4 – Brasov (visit Peles Castle en route)
• Days 5-6 – Sibiu
• Days 7-8 – Sighosoara (drive Transfăgărășan Road en route from Sibiu)
• Days 9-10 – Cluj Napoca.

2 week Romania road trip itinerary

This is the Romania itinerary I followed. The main difference is that it includes Timisoara , a beautiful city in west Romania. Although it’s quite far from Transylvania, this was one of my favourite stops during my summer Europe trip. If you’re travelling from or onwards to Central Europe (like Hungary , Slovakia or Austria ), it’s a convenient stop. Since I’d just come from Budapest on the FlixBus , it was perfect for me. There’s an international airport in Timisoara, too. Also, this 2 week Romania itinerary allows you to stay overnight in Sinaia rather than visiting Peles Castle en route from Bucharest to Brasov.

• Days 3-4 – Sinaia
• Days 5-6 – Brasov
• Days 7-8 – Sibiu (drive Transfăgărășan Road en route from Brasov)
• Days 9-10 – Sighisoara
• Days 11-12 – Cluj Napoca
• Days 13-14 – Timisoara.

How this Romania itinerary works

I’ll share my full Romania road trip itinerary for 2 weeks. If you have less time, use the bullet-pointed itineraries above to plan your route. Use the information below for what to do in the destinations and travel tips for getting between them.

DAYS 1-2: BUCHAREST

I have to be honest: Bucharest isn’t my favourite city. In fact, it’s one of my least favourites . But, if you’re taking a Romanian road trip, you’ll likely wind up there at some stage. Bucharest boasts the ‘newest Old Town in the world’. I was initially intrigued by this, but soon discovered the problem with the Old Town is indeed its newness. Overpriced American burger joints and sleazy bars rule the roost. Saying this, Bucharest has a few worthwhile attractions so I’d still recommend spending at least a day here.

Day 1: Begin your day in Bucharest by taking a morning walking tour with Walkabout Free Tours . This is the perfect introduction to Romanian history and the events centred in Bucharest during the last few decades. You’ll see and learn plenty during this 3-hour tour.

In the afternoon, pay a visit to the Palace of the Parliament , the world’s second-largest administrative building. Commissioned by dictator Nicolae Ceauşescu in 1984, this 3,000-room building was left unfinished after he was executed by firing squad for crimes against humanity. A tour costs 40 RON (20 for students) and can either be booked by phoning them a day in advance or – the easier option – getting an online skip-the-line ticket from GetYourGuide .

Another must-visit place in Romania is Cărturești Carusel, voted the world’s prettiest bookshop!

Day 2: Take some time to explore the Bucharest hidden gems . These include abandoned mansions in the backstreets, orthodox cathedrals, the Armenian Quarter and Obar Market, the biggest local market in Bucharest where you can sample sweet cherries, beer and mici sausages (the most famous Romanian dish).

I visited all these hidden attractions on a Bucharest street food & neighourhoods tour . For street art and quirky places, try a Bucharest alternative walking tour .

Where to stay in Bucharest

Hostel: I was keen to stay at Podstel Bucharest but sadly it was booked up. This is known as the best hostel in Bucharest with comfy and clean dorm rooms, group meals and evening activities. Another option is First Hostel Bucharest , 5 minutes walk to Unirii Metro Station (Piata Unirii), 7 minutes walk to the Old Town and 10 minutes walk to our famous Palace of Parliament. Dorm beds starts from €8 . Also check out Sleep Inn Hostel in the middle of Bucharest with all attractions in easy walking distance. Dorm beds starts from €7 . Apartment: For a modern, central apartment with all your amenities, stay at Black & White Apartments for €35 a night. Hotel: For a luxurious old-school mansion feel, delicious breakfast and rave reviews, check out Grand Boutique Hotel (rooms from €50 a night).

DAYS 3-4: SINAIA  

Next, we really begin our road trip through Romania as we leave the big city behind! I’m taking you a million miles from the capital. Well actually it’s only 86 miles away but it certainly feels like another world. Distance from Bucharest: 148km, 2 hours by car. Public transport alternative: Catch a direct train from București Nord station taking 1.5 hours. Short road trip alternative: If you have just 1 week or 10 days in Romania, visit Sinaia as a day trip en route from Bucharest to Brasov. Park in Sinaia, tour Peles Castle then get back on the road for another 1.5 hours to reach Brasov.

Nestled in the mountains, the beauty of Sinaia  is undisputed. Not only will the craggy mountains leave you breathless, but the region is home to fairytale castles to set your imagination alight. Day 3: After arriving in Sinaia, explore Peles Castle built in 1873. Those who have been to Germany might recognise the German Renaissance style in the dark woods and rafters. There are 160 rooms and over 2,000 paintings. Oh, and it looks straight out of a fairytale! Day 3: In the summer, go hiking in the Bucegi mountains. There are plenty of well-marked hikes from Sinaia ranking from easy to difficult. In the winter, you can go skiing in Sinaia or admire the old 1,500m bobsleigh track . Where to stay in Sinaia: For excellent value in a homey B&B base, stay at V ila Floare de Colt .

DAYS 5-6: BRASOV

Distance from Sinaia: 48km, 1.5 hours by car. Distance from Bucharest: 184km, 3.5 hours by car. Public transport alternative: Catch a direct train or bus. Pretty Brasov was one of my favourite places during my road trip in Romania. It’s a little bigger and busier than the smaller towns of Transylvania (which we’ll get to next) which I liked. It’s also the best place from which to visit Dracula’s Castle, something I was very excited about (although turned out to be slightly anti-climatic). I was also awestruck by the Hollywood-style Brasov sign emblazoned on the hillside. This city certainly has character so I recommend at least 2 nights to explore it properly.

Read next: 20 best things to do in Brasov, Romania

Day 5: Take a free walking tour with Walkabout Free Tours in the morning or afternoon and explore the sights at your leisure during the rest of the day. The best things to do in Brasov include:

• Sightsee or eat ice cream in Council Square
• Visit Catherine’s Tower
• Squeeze down Rope Street (Romania’s smallest street) and learn about it at Rope Street Museum
• Tour Romania’s oldest school (beside Biserica Sfântul Nicolae church)
• Take a forest walk to the Black & White Towers
• Hike to the Braşov sign (or take the cable car).

Where to stay in Brasov: For hostel accommodation, you can’t beat JugendStube Hostel with clean, colourful dorm rooms and a hearty breakfast. For a spacious and stylish boutique hotel complete with sofas and flat-screen TV (as well as family suites), look no further than Nani Nani Boutique Hotel for €60 a night. Where to eat and drink in Brasov: Dine at La Ceaun for authentic Romanian fare and La Birou Bistro for tasty brunch and coffee. Brasov has a surprisingly good speciality coffee scene which you can explore on a coffee tour !

Day 6: Take a day trip to Bran Castle, stopping off at Rasnov Citadel on the way home. This iconic location is famed as Dracula’s Castle but I learnt this is a slight exaggeration. Although Bram Stoker based the character of Count Dracula on Vlad Tepes, the ancient Romanian ruler nicknamed ‘Vlad the Impaler’ due to the gruesome ways he killed his enemies, the author never actually visited Bran Castle. It was rumoured Vlad Tepes was imprisoned at Bran Castle but scholars argue this is untrue. Sorry to be a downer! Despite not really being Dracula’s Castle, it’s still well worth visiting Bran Castle from Brasov. My top tip is to arrive early to beat the crowds.

Read next: V isiting Dracula’s Castle from Brasov

Day 7: Transfăgărășan Road

Some would say that it’s not a road trip in Romania without a visit to the Transfăgărășan Road, famously featured on British TV show, Top Gear. Although it’s not directly en route between the typical Transylvania road trip stops, it’s worth going out of your way for. The building of Transfăgărășan was ordered by ex-Romanian dictator, Nicolae Ceausescu. It took four years, and 38 workers died in the process. Since it’s far from the most practical road, it’s unclear why he wanted it… But then, who can ever get inside the head of an evil dictator? This famous road is part of 7C Highway connecting small towns, Bascov and Cârțișoara. Here it joins the E68 connecting Brasov and Sibiu. For that reason, it makes sense to drive Transfăgărășan en route between these two places. If you’d rather do it as a day trip, it’s closest to Sibiu. Organised day tours run if you’re not confident about driving it. Seasonal note – you can drive the highway from June to October. It’s closed during the winter months as it would be too hazardous. Driving distances: It should take 3 hours to reach from Brasov and 2.5 hours from Sibiu. This Transfăgărășan guide has some useful details about driving from each city.

DAY 7-8: SIBIU

Distance from the Transfăgărășan Road: 2.5 hours by car. Public transport alternative: From Brasov to Sibiu, take a 2-hour bus from €8. The train takes 3 hours. Bored of pretty traditional towns yet? I hope not because Sibiu is as enchanting and old-school as they come. Saying that, it’s unique in one sense: the houses have eyes! Say what? Check this photo below if you don’t believe me. These eye-like slits were apparently invented to provide ventilation to attics but I often felt their real purpose was judging me for eating my 5th mici sausage of the day…

Day 9: Explore Sibiu during your first day. Things to do:

• Wander the Bridge of Lies and learn about its morbid history
• Admire Strada Cetăţii and its colourful houses
• Climb the Council Tower
• Walk from pretty pedestrian street, Strada Nicolae Bălcescu, to Piața Mare (Large Square)

Where to eat in Sibiu: Sample local dishes at Crama Sibiul Vechi . This is a traditional Romanian restaurant with huge banquet-style tables (slightly awkward dining for one!). To save money, eat at Cibin Market . I found a stand run by a friendly gentleman serving delicious mici sausages and fries. Day 10: Spend a second day exploring and eating in Sibiu or continue your Romania road trip to the surrounding region. If you didn’t already drive the scenic Transfăgărășan Road, do so today by car or guided day tour .

Where to stay: I went for B13 Hostel which is right in the centre of town with a large lounge, games area and kitchen. A basic but comfy base with rooms for €13 a night. Guesthouse option: you can’t beat Gasthof Clara inside a period property with spacious rooms, outdoor space and a generous buffet breakfast.

DAYS 9-10: SIGHISOARA

If you’re keen to add Transylvania to your Romania road trip itinerary, there’s nowhere more idyllic or picturesque than Sighisoara. It’s often described as the last inhabited medieval city in Europe. I confess I was getting slightly bored of quaint towns by the time I got to Sighisoara. It’s the smallest of the lot so don’t expect much by the way of evening activities.

Distance from Sibiu : 93km, 1 hour 40 minutes by car. Public transport alternative: Take a 2-hour train from Sibiu.

Day 7: Arrive in Sighisoara, get your bearings and tuck into hearty Romanian cuisine. After a week in bigger cities, it’s the perfect place to unwind. Day 8: Spend a leisurely day in Sighisoara. Things to add to your Romania itinerary include:

• Casa Vlad , the birthplace of Vlad Tepes (the character Dracula is based on). This is one of the few places Romania capitalise on vampire tourism and it’s as cheesy as it sounds! Give it a miss if that isn’t your scene.
• Climb the Clock Tower for surrounding views and visit the History Museum at the top
• Climb the Scholar’s Staircase and visit the Church on the Hill
• Visit the various guildsmen’s towers such as the Tinsmith’s Tower and the Roper’s Tower
• Wander the colourful backstreets.

Where to stay in Sighisoara: The only hostel is Burg Hostel where I stayed. It was passable, nothing amazing but definitely the cheapest place to stay and just a moment’s walk from the centre. Guesthouse option: The period double rooms at Casa Wagner look comfier if you have the money to spend (€30 a night including breakfast).

DAYS 11-12: CLUJ-NAPOCA

Romania’s second-largest city has the country’s biggest population of students which makes it a fun and lively addition to your Romania itinerary. Despite being in the heart of Transylvania, it’s somewhere to shake off the small-town vibe and appreciate the nightlife and arts scene. Distance from Sighisoara: 155km, 3 hours driving. Public transport alternative: Take a 3-hour bus or 3.5-hour train. Day 11: Arrive and start exploring the city. Things to do in Cluj include:

• Get panoramic views from Parcul Cetátuia
• Admire the fancy National Opera House
• Relax in the Botanical Garden
• Wander Central Park
• Go inside the Gothic St Michael’s Church
• Visit the National Museum of Transylvanian History and the Pharmacy Museum
• Check out art galleries including Bánffy Palace (traditional art) or IAGA Contemporary Art Gallery.

Day 12: Spend more time in Cluj or why not take a day trip? Journey to Turda Gorge and explore underground in these old salt mines. Where to stay in Cluj: Retro Youth is on a quiet street near the main square with dorms and private rooms from €22. For a sunny yellow apartment with your home comforts, check out House Apartment Minerilor.

DAYS 13-14: TIMISOARA

Beautiful Timisoara is a relaxed city with an open feel and friendly locals, the perfect end to your road trip in Romania. Things feel a little more modern than in sleepy Transylvania so I was thrilled to find an avocado brunch and hipster flat white. As you’re on the border with Serbia, you can even sample Serbian food in Timisoara. To summarise, it’s a diverse and pretty city that shouldn’t be missed from your Romania itinerary.

Distance from Cluj-Napoca: 314km, 4.5 hours driving. Public transport alternative: 6 hours by train. There’s a daily 3.39pm train that you could take on day 12 after a day of sightseeing or an early one departing just before 6am .

Day 13: Explore Timisoara starting with a free walking tour. Can you tell I love these by now? Options for the afternoon include:

• Explore Union Square’s different houses of worship, art gallery and quirky Casa Brück
• Go inside the enormous Orthodox Cathedral capable of holding 5,000 guests at one time
• Explore the other squares, Victory Square and Liberty Square
• Learn about days gone by at the Communist Consumer Museum
• Take photos on colourful umbrella street

Read next: 16 things to do in Timisoara, Romania’s most beautiful city

Where to stay in Timisoara: certainly at InVerve Hostel ! The modern, fully-equipped apartment inside a period property has dorm rooms with curtains and private sockets, plus each guest is given eye masks and earplugs by the friendly owners, Dan and Simone who personally showed me around the city! For a hotel option, the Mercure is easily the best in town. Day 14: It’s the end of your 2 weeks in Romania. Boo!

More Romania road trip destinations

This itinerary covers a lot but there’s always more in this beautiful country. Here are a few places for extra inspo if you have time or fancy swapping these into your Romania road trip itinerary:

• Take a trip on the Danube Delta home to fascinating wildlife. Book a slow boat tour from Bucharest .
• Fancy some beach chills? Romania may not be well known for its beaches but it should be. Visit Mamaia located on the Black Sea for plenty of sandy white beaches.
• Painted Monasteries – head to northeastern Romania and you’ll find these otherworldly buildings painted with scenes from 15th-century life.
• The Merry Cemetry of Sapanta – a bizarre place where colourful graves depict how the deceased passed away.

Budget for a Romanian road trip

How much did I spend during 2 weeks in Romania? Not a lot! My total spend from 2 weeks in Romania was €460, comprised of staying in hostels and eating a mix of restaurant and home-cooked meals. Here’s a rough breakdown of Romania travel costs:

• Accommodation – beds in hostel dorms start at €13 per night / modest guesthouses start at €25 per night
• Car hire – expect to pay around €200 per week (or less if you’re collecting and dropping off from the same location)
• 3-course meal and drink in a modest restaurant – €10
• 3-course meal and drink in a nicer/touristic restaurant – €18
• Meal at a market – €3
• Supermarket – litre of milk (€1), loaf of bread (€0.50), dry pasta (€0.50).
• Read more Romania food costs here.

Foodie visiting Romania? Eatwith is the world’s largest community for unique culinary experiences. With cooking classes and workshops, Eatwith connects guests with friendly, hand-selected hosts for unique, immersive experiences. Browse food activities in Romania .

Thanks for reading my Romania itinerary!

I had such a great time exploring the traditional, friendly and beautiful land of Romania. If you have any questions, drop them in the comments below and I’ll get back to you.

Check out my other Romania blogs:

• A complete Timososara travel guide
• Things to do in Brasov for 2 days
• Brasov to Bran Castle – visiting Dracula’s Castle
• 15 Romania travel tips
• Hidden gems in Bucharest

Check out my other Europe blogs:

• How to spend 2 days in Sofia, Bulgaria
• Visiting Rila Lakes, Bulgaria
• Visiting Rila Monastery from Sofia, Bulgaria
• What to eat in Prague
• What to eat in Budapest
• Complete 3 day Budapest itinerary
• How to spend one day in Bratislava, Slovakia
• Things to do in Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic
• Guide to visiting Cesky Krumlov Castle
• Things to do in Belgrade, Serbia
• The top attractions in Pristina, Kosovo
• Albania itinerary
• Things to do in Tirana
• What to do in Skopje, North Macedonia
• Things to do in Sarajevo and Mostar, Bosnia & Herzegovina
• Don’t miss my Croatia or Slovenia blogs!

For more travel content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

See you next time for more adventures,

Ps. Liked this Romania road trip? Pin it for later!

TRUSTED RESOURCES FOR VISITING ROMANIA Getting around by air – I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. You can also use the ‘to anywhere’ feature if you’re flexible on where you’re going. Driving in Europe – use Rentalcars.com to compare car rentals in European countries (and all around the world). For trains , use CRF Calatori to search times and book tickets. For buses , book at Autogari . To catch buses in and out of Romania (from Bucharest and Sofia), use FlixBus . Find journeys between European countries from €1!  For hotels and self-catering apartments, I use Booking.com . You can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld.com . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. Browse tours and activities on GetYourGuide . Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and budget tips from my 10+ years on the road!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

4 thoughts on “ The Perfect Romania Itinerary: 2 Week Road Trip! ”

I’m planning on doing a road trip in Romania within the next year so this was perfect! Thank you so much for this comprehensive guide <3

I need to get to Romania. It’s on my ever-growing list! Great itinerary with fabulous tips.

This is a fantastic guide. I traveled Romania a couple years ago and was so impressed – I learned so much interesting history and the castles are just incredible! It’s definitely an underrated Euro destination.

I was in Romania a few years ago but would love to go back and explore more! The Cărturești Carusel looks like one of the prettiest bookstores ever!

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An EPIC Romania Road Trip: 2-Week Itinerary Thru Transylvania In 2024

Romania holds a special place in my heart. Out of all the places I’ve traveled to, it easily ranks as one of my absolute favorites. I’ve visited this country twice – once renting a car and doing a road trip, and the other time with just public transport.

And let me tell you, if you are planning a Romania itinerary, you should definitely consider doing a road trip. Its winding roads meandering through lush forests, majestic mountains, and rustic villages, provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable adventure.

Today, I’m here to share my personal 2-week Romania road trip itinerary, exploring everything from Transylvania’s Gothic castles to the charm of Bucharest’s vibrant city life.

This itinerary mostly focuses on Transylvania, the most beautiful region of Romania, and we also highlight some of the hidden gems in the region that can only be reached by car!

Renting A Car In Romania

If you are planning on doing a road trip in Romania, chances are, you will need to rent a car. Luckily, as part of the European Union, renting a car is easy , especially if you have a driver’s license from another country in the EU.

Surprisingly, the requirements for car rentals in Romania vary slightly by company. For example, some companies will allow you to rent a car when you are 18, but some only allow you to rent a car when you are 21.

Here are some of the most common requirements for car rentals in Romania:

• Most car rental companies in Romania require you to be at least 21 years old . Rarely, you will find a car rental that requires you to be at least 18 years old.
• The maximum age you can rent a car is 70 years old.
• You must have held your driver’s license for at least 1 year .
• A credit card to make the payment and hold a deposit (just in case something happens to the car).
• For US citizens, you must have an international driving permit (IDP) as well as a valid US drivers’ license to rent a car in Romania. However, I heard of car rental agencies that let you rent a car without an IDP. You can get an IDP from the official AAA site here .
• EU citizens do not need an IDP, just a driver’s license from their country to drive in Romania.

Looking for a reliable rental car company in Romania? Check out our recommended car rental company here!

Driving In Romania (Parking, Roads, Regulations & More)

Though Romania’s roads tend to get a bad rating , we found that the roads in Romania are generally pleasant to drive on , minus the few that are a little off-the-beaten-path.

Compared to the roads in New York City, Romanian roads are better maintained and less congested . (That is not really saying much I know.) In rural areas, you might share the road with livestock and horse-drawn wagons .

Driving in Romania is on the right-hand side of the road , so anyone from North America would have an easier time in Romania. At first, we were quite nervous about renting a car and driving in Romania, but then the beautiful scenery along the way and the easy-driving roads soothed our worries.

Most cars in Romania are in manual drive , just like the Dacia Logan sedan that we rented. Though there are automatic options, those tend to be a little bit more expensive.

If you intend to do a road trip in Romania in the winter , make sure you drive extra carefully, have snow tires, and preferably a 4WD vehicle.

Parking in Romania

One of the biggest concerns when renting a car in a foreign country is parking. Luckily, parking in Romania is generally effortless , though you might have to walk a bit to/from your accommodation.

Generally speaking, the bigger the city, the harder it is to find free parking. Cities such as Bucharest will give you a headache if you try to find free parking, especially in the historic center. (Good thing you don’t need a car to explore Bucharest!)

Free parking is abundant in most of the tourist attractions in Romania since most of them are located in the countryside of Romania. Just don’t park at the designated parking lot for the attraction (ex. Bran Castle parking lot) and you can save tons of money.

We didn’t have to pay a single dime for parking on our 2-week Romania road trip. 

Where Should You Start Your Romania Road Trip

The most common question I get about doing a road trip in Romania is where to start and end your trip . Most travelers opt to start their trip in Bucharest (the capital of Romania) for 2 reasons:

• Flights to Bucharest are cheaper
• Car rentals are also cheaper

While it is a nice option when traveling on a budget in Romania, Bucharest is not exactly an exciting city. Most of the attractions in Bucharest can be done in a day or two, and you are left with nothing but an overcrowded metropolitan city.

The other city to start your Romanian road trip is Cluj-Napoca , the capital city of the Transylvania region.

This is the perfect place to start your road trip because you can rent a car in Cluj-Napoca and drop it off in Bucharest and then get on your flight .

The con is that it would be a little pricier, as flights to Cluj can be more expensive and you will have to pay extra to drop the car off at a different location than the one you rented it from.

Whichever city you decide to start your road trip, I would recommend dropping your car off at a different location than where you rented it.

Road Trip To Romania Tourist Map

Featured above is our Romania road trip itinerary. As you can see, it starts in Cluj-Napoca and ends in Bucharest or vice-versa.

You will be basing yourself out of 4 locations: 

• Cluj-Napoca

You will use these four cities as a base to explore the nearby attractions, which are color-coded on the map.

Most of your road trip will be in the Transylvania region , which is definitely the most cultural part of Romania! Get ready for dramatic castles, fortified towns, vampire tales, and more! The other part will be in the old Wallachia region, still a really cool region in my opinion!

Road Trip In Romania: Step-By-Step Itinerary

Cluj-napoca, the capital of transylvania (2-3 days).

Cluj-Napoca, or commonly referred to as Cluj, is the unofficial capital of Transylvania, a region known for its medieval towns, impressive mountains, and stunning castle s. It is a region so special that even  Prince Charles has fallen in love and paid many visits .

As the second-most populous city in Romania, Cluj is famous for its prestigious universities, amazing student nightlife, exciting music festivals, and many historic buildings.

You will spend around 2 to 3 days in Cluj , exploring the best things to do in Cluj-Napoca. Most of the attractions are concentrated in the Old Town of Cluj Napoca, and accessing them on foot is easy and a great way to experience the city. 

Rent your car in Cluj when you are done seeing the city and want to explore the places inaccessible by foot such as the Hoia Forest, arguably one of the most haunted places on Earth, or the impressive Turda Salt Mines.

Things To Do In Cluj Napoca, Romania

While there are many things to do in Cluj-Napoca, here are some must-do activities.

1. FREE Walking Tour Cluj-Napoca

One of my favorite things to do when traveling is to take advantage of the free walking tours offered in each city. The majority of these tours are run by locals that have lived in the area for a long time and know the city like the back of their hand.

What is best about these free walking tours is that they are completely free, but a tip is appreciated at the end.

The tours usually include information about the city, its history, the best things to do there, and even personal recommendations on places to eat.

It is also a great place to meet other travelers if you are traveling solo in Romania or looking for road trip buddies!

You can find more about the Cluj-Napoca free walking tour  here . It is our favorite one in Cluj!

2. Unirii Square Cluj-Napoca

As the biggest square in Cluj-Napoca,  Unirii Square  is the perfect place to hang out and just observe the local life. Besides being a good spot to chill out, the Unirii square is home to two very important landmarks – the St. Michaels Church and the statue of the King of Hungary Matthias Corvinus .

Why is there a Hungarian statue of a king in Romania? Because Cluj-Napoca has actually been under the rule of Hungary for close to a thousand years.

St. Michaels Church is the church with the tallest watchtower and the second biggest Gothic-styled church in Romania, a stunning display of the grandeur at the time. If there is one landmark in Cluj-Napoca that is worth seeing, it is the St. Michaels Church.

3. Central Park, Citadel Park, or Botanical Garden

Anyone looking to enjoy some of the green spaces in Cluj-Napoca must not miss  Central Park ,  Citadel Park , or the  Botanical Garden . Though all these 3 places are similar, they are also different in many ways.

Central Park is located inside the Old Town, making it the perfect and convenient place to just relax after a long day. Grab a coffee and just stroll around the almost 200-year-old park. Make sure you don’t miss the serene lake that attracts many locals.

If you are looking for a panoramic view of Cluj-Napoca , the Citadel Park, or Cetățuia Park in Romanian, is the perfect place to go. Located on a hilltop across the Someșul Mic river, the Citadel Park is the perfect place to watch the sun set behind the gorgeous city of Cluj. 

The Botanical Garden is another great option for anyone looking for leisure activities in Cluj. During the summer, various species of plants are in blossom and it feels like nature’s paradise.

4. Piezisa Street (Strada Piezișă) for Nightlife

Anyone visiting Cluj-Napoca without experiencing some of its nightlife is missing out. Home of many universities , the nightlife in Cluj is perfect for anyone young or young at heart.

Many students gather on the popular  Piezisa Street , also nicknamed Cluj’s student street . With dozens of bars and clubs concentrated on Piezisa Street, visitors will unquestionably have a crazy night here!

Cluj is also the home of many quirky bars and clubs, such as the steampunk-designed  Enigma bar  or the  Fly Circus Pub , a bar with an in-house arthouse cinema.

5. Hoia Forest (Hoia Baciu)

Known as one of the most haunted places in the world , Hoia Baciu is a must for anyone that enjoys dark tourism or the supernatural. Inside the Hoia Forest are trees that grow in a zig-zag or spiral pattern, and scientists that have investigated the cause have come up with nothing.

Besides the numerous UFO sightings and shadowy figures that have been reported in the forest, a perfectly circular area named The Clearing is located deep inside the forest. Strangely, this circular area is the only place in Hoia Forest with no trees, and scientists again have failed to come up with a solution.

Many locals refuse to get near the Hoia Forest, and some tourists that have taken the taxi there are dropped off a 10-minute walk away from the entrance. However, there are some locals that use the Hoia Forest as a recreation area daily.

6. Turda Salt Mines

If the Hoia Forest is too spooky for you, visit the impressive Salina Turda salt mine instead. This amazing engineering feat has been named as one of the  25 hidden gems in the world worth visiting  and it is not surprising.

The first record of the  Salina Turda  dates back to the late 11th century, making this salt mine almost one thousand years old . What was one of the most active salt mines has now become a museum, an … amusement park, and a spa. Yes, I said amusement park.

Inside the Rudolf Hall of the Salina Turda is a ferris wheel, mini-golf court, billiards, ping pong, and even a bowling alley. But that is not all; down another lift is a boating lake 120 meters below ground where visitors can rent a boat for 20 lei and row it around.

If you don’t fancy all these extra activities, visitors can stroll around the various halls and learn about the salt mine.  Breathing in salty air is said to have positive properties  and if you want a professional halotherapy (salt therapy), guess what? They have a halotherapy spa at the Salina Turda!

Salina Turda is one of the most  insane   unique places to visit in Romania , and it is usually quite difficult to get to without a car, which is why it’s on this road trip itinerary!

An idyllic small village about an hour from Cluj-Napoca,  Rimetea  is one of the most popular day trips from Cluj. It is a village where a magical phenomenon happens, th e sun rises twice , once over the horizon and once over the Piatra Secuiului, or Rock of the Szeklers mountains.

Rimetea was once a popular mining town , but now there are only about 1,000 residents. Most residents in the town speak Hungarian, just like many people in the Transylvania Region, because this part has been under Hungarian rule for about 1000 years.

Strolling through the idyllic village should take no more than an hour or two, but there are several restaurants, bars, and museums to explore. However, the most popular thing to do in Rimetea is  hiking the Piatra Secuiului  Mountain.

At 480 meters above the village and the surrounding area, the picturesque views of the stunning Romanian countryside are all yours to enjoy when you set foot on the peak.

Because Rimetea is on the way to on next destination (Sibiu) , I highly recommend you to visit Rimetea on the day you are leaving for Sibiu.

Visit Rimetea in the afternoon and then check out the  Red Ravine . The sunset at Red Ravine will leave anyone and everyone in awe! Finally, head down to Sibiu!

Where To Stay In Cluj Napoca

Best Hostel In Cluj-Napoca –  Retro Hostel

If you are looking for a social atmosphere to meet more potential road trip partners, Retro Hostel is perfect for you. Featuring friendly vibes, clean and spacious beds, free coffee and tea, and a sauna, Retro hostel knows how to make  hostel life  enjoyable!

Best Hotel In Cluj-Napoca –  Modern Central

Modern Central is the perfect hotel in Cluj for anyone looking for a modern, spacious, and easy-to-access accommodation for an affordable price. This hotel (apartment) has the same luxury as some famous hotels in the city without a hefty price tag.

Its location in the Old Town of Cluj means you are within walking distance to pretty much everything you might want to see! 

Sibiu, The Most Idyllic City in Romania (3 to 4 Days)

Sibiu is that one city that no one has heard about before traveling to Romania and also the one that everyone talks about after being there.

It is the place that you plan on visiting for a few days but then end up staying there longer because you have fallen in love with the city … bought a house … and have three kids.

The charm of Sibiu isn’t unheard of. In fact,  Sibiu has been designated as the European Capital of Culture in 2007  because of its significance with the Transylvanian Saxons.

In 2008, Forbes has named Sibiu the 8th-most idyllic place to live. In 2019, Sibiu was named the European Region of Gastronomy. History, aesthetics, and great food, who wouldn’t love this place ?

Sibiu’s most iconic feature is the eyes that appear on its houses, earning it the nickname of “The City With Eyes” or “Seebiu” .

The “eyes “appeared on the houses as early as the 15th century and are part of Baroque architecture. The real purpose of the eyes is ventilation for houses’ attics, but some believe they were built to scare people.

The city is easily walkable, and most of the attractions are located inside the Old Town of Sibiu. Though the landmarks are stunning, the beauty of Sibiu lies within its everyday elements: the cobble-stoned roads, the beautiful houses, the relaxed vibes, the friendly people, and the delicious food.

Things To Do In Sibiu, Romania

Because there are so many  things to do in Sibiu , we have written a separate guide! But here are some of the attractions you cannot miss!

1. The Large Square & The Small Square (Piata Mare & Piata Mica of Sibiu)

Inside every medieval town is a massive square where trade is conducted, gatherings are held, and executions are taken place.  The Large Square  (A+ for creativity) is exactly that historical center.

Nowadays, you won’t find any executions, but you will find a number of historical buildings surrounding the massive square, such as the Holy Trinity Roman Catholic Church, the Brukenthal Palace , and many more.

If you are lucky to visit during Christmas, you will get to enjoy the renowned Christmas market in the Large Square (also known as Piata Mare). Numerous stalls are lined up in this beautiful cobble-stone square selling local food as kurtoskalacs, handmade crafts, accessories, toys, and many more .

Along with the giant Christmas tree and the glamorous lights, it is no wonder why the Sibiu Christmas market has been considered the best Christmas market in the world in 2012 by El Mundo and the best in Europe in 2019 by About Times Magazine.

Adjacent to the Large Square (Piata Mare) of Sibiu is the  Small Square  (Piata Mica), known for its diverse dining establishments ranging from Mediterranean to Eastern European. It used to be a place where merchants sold their goods.

After you are done enjoying your meal at the Small Square, head over to the  Bridge of Lies  and learn about its legends. Though there are many variations to the legends, one thing for certain is that it connected the Old Town of Sibiu with the New Town.

2. Saint Mary Evangelical Cathedral (Sibiu Lutheran Cathedral)

Located in Huet Square, Saint Mary Evangelical Cathedral (Sibiu Lutheran Cathedral) is arguably the most recgonizable building in Sibiu at 73m tall.

The cathedral itself is gorgeous with its unique baroque-style organ and intricate details of the interior, but what we really came here for was the watchtower.

The lookout tower itself offers some of the best panoramic views of Sibiu(much better than the Council Tower, or Turnul Sfatului). Here you can see the spectacular roofs of the Sibiu houses and the mountains that surround the region in the distance.

3. Corvin Castle and The Citadel of Alba-Carolina (Day Trip From Sibiu)

Once you have finished exploring Sibiu, it is time to use that car and take some day trips from Sibiu.

Corvin Castle , or Castelul Corvinilor in Romanian, is one of the  Seven Wonders of Romania , and is a must-visit for anyone on a road trip in Transylvania. It is an amazing hiden gem and usually only people with their own car can visit.

As one of the biggest castles in Europe, visitors can spend hours here, wandering up and down the corridors and admiring the Gothic-Renaissance architecture.

🤯 Fun Fact: The Vajdahunyad Castle in Budapest is a replica of the Corvin Castle, make you check it out when you visit Budapest !

The drive from Sibiu to Corvin Castle is about an hour and a half, and we recommend you to start early in the day and pair that with the meticulous  Alba-Carolina Citadel  in Alba Iulia, the biggest medieval citadel in Romania.

That way you will have enough time to explore the significance that has earned the castle’s title as one of the Seven Wonders of Romania, as well as take enough photos at one of the most beautiful places in Romania .

The star-shaped fortress of the Alba-Carolina Citadel was built in the early 18th century by Prince Eugene of Savoy to fortify the defenses of the newly conquered provinces of the Habsburg Empire. 

The Citadel Alba-Carolina is a huge fortress, and you can spend ages there. Though the citadel itself is free to enter, there are museums inside that require an entrance fee.

Visitors can also rent a bike to explore the citadel and its 12-km-long outer walls.

4. Sighisoara

Sighisoara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site , is renowned for its well-preserved Old Town, one of Europe’s few inhabited fortified towns.

Built in the 12th century by Saxons, invited by the Hungarian King, it became an artisan hub and trading post, leading to the creation of 15 craft guilds.

Each guild built their own fortifications, some of which still stand today.

After World War I, Sighisoara was handed to Romania. A walk through its cobblestone streets is like stepping back in time, with colorful houses and guild towers lining the way.

The must-see landmark is the 13th-century Clock Tower (Turnul cu Ceas), the main fortification of the town. It has now become a museum and at 64-meter tall, it offers stunning views of the Mures County from its open-air balcony.

5. Transfagarasan Road (Transfăgărășan), The Best Driving Road In The World

If you have rented a car in Romania, chances are, you already know about the Transfagarasan Road or Transfagarasan Highway. Made famous by the TV show Top Gear, the  Transfagarasan Highway is considered the best driving road in the world !

This picturesque route, which crosses the southern Carpathian Mountains, is safe to drive despite some sharp turns (which makes it exhilarating)!

If you are coming from Sibiu, you want to arrive at Balea Lake  on the Transfagarasan Road (also known as DN7C). The glacial lake sits at the base of the surrounding alpine giants, offering views that belong on the front cover of a travel magazine .

Here you will also find many “street” vendors selling various local crafts and food (lots of cheese and cured meats), as well as restaurants and accommodations, including the famous  ice hotel .

Balea Lake also offers the best views of the Transfagaran Highway .

On the way to Balea Lake, you have the chance to stop by and hike to the  Balea Waterfall . At over 60 meters tall, the Balea Waterfall is the tallest stepping waterfall in Romania, and a short 45-minute hike away!

Because the Transfagarason Road is located between Sibiu and Brasov (our next destination), we recommend you to visit the Transfagarason on the day you are planning to depart for Brasov.

📝 Note: If you are visiting Romania in the winter, you’ll have to double check to see whether the highway is closed or not!

Where To Stay In Sibiu, Romania

Best Hostel in Sibiu –  B13 Hostel

If you are looking for an affordable hostel located in the historic center of Sibiu, B13 Hostel is the one for you. Featuring comfortable beds and clean spaces, B13 Hostel will give you the sleep you need after a long day on the road. They also feature a big common area, which would’ve been perfect for socializing had there been more people staying when we visited.

Best Hotel in Sibiu –  Rabbit Hole

Located in the Big Square of Sibiu, the location of the Rabbit Hole hotel just cannot get better. When you are not exploring the city, guests can enjoy views of the Big Square from their stylishly decorated rooms or grab some food at their on-site restaurant.

Though breakfast is not included in the price, guests can pay a little extra for one of the best breakfasts in town!

Brasov, One Of The Medieval Walled Citadels (4 to 5 Days)

Other than Bucharest, Brasov is probably the most well-known and popular place to visit in Romania. Featuring medieval Saxon fortifications, mysterious gothic-style churches, and nostalgic cobble-stone streets , Brasov is one of the most stunning places in Romania.

Similar to Sibiu, Brasov was one of the seven Saxon walled citadels to protect the Hungarian empire. As a result, you will find many similarities in the architecture and types of buildings.

However, the Carpathian Mountains loom over the southern parts of Brasov, and the historic streets now look so much more tasteful with the jagged mountains in the background.

We recommend you to spend 4 to 5 days in Brasov , exploring the city and learning about its history, hiking in the nearby region, and visiting some of the nearby castles such as the  Bran Castle that inspired Bram Stoker’s famous novel Dracula  and Peles Castle.

Things To Do In Brasov, Romania

There is a multitude of  attractions in Brasov , but here are the things you must do!

1. FREE Walking Tour Brasov

As a medieval city with centuries of history, uncovering the depths of the information is a difficult task without the help of a professional tour guide. Luckily for you, Brasov has many FREE walking tours that will help you learn about the gorgeous city and its significance.

I personally have taken the Brasov free walking tour with  Walkabout Free Tour . Their local guides gave us detailed information about the landmarks in Brasov such as the Black Church, Catherine’s Gate, and the Strada Sforii, the narrowest street in Europe.

2. Hike Or Take A Cable Car Up Mount Tampa

At close to 400 meters above the city , the summit of Mount Tampa offers panoramic views of Brasov from above. Here the vibrant orange hues of the buildings contrast with the monotonous mountains and trees, bringing the city to life.

Not only is the Tampa Mountain a great vantage point, but it is also the home of the giant sign that says “Brasov”.

There are two ways to reach the top of Mount Tampa, hiking or taking the cable car.

The cable car runs from 9:30 AM to 5 PM and costs 35 Romanian lei for a round trip. If you want to watch the sunset from the mountain, this option might be a little more difficult.

If you decide to hike up to Mount Tampa from Brasov, you are in for a treat. The well-marked trail takes about 1 hour to the top and passes through some lush landscapes. It is a great way to move your legs after sitting in a car for so long!

3. Day Trip To Bran Castle And Rasnov Fortress

Bran Castle, often associated with the legend of Dracula and Bram Stoker’s famous novel, is Romania’s most recognizable landmark.

Despite rumors, neither Stoker nor Vlad III, the ruler rumored to inspire Dracula, had any direct connection to the castle.

Today, Bran Castle serves as a museum showcasing Queen Marie’s art and furniture collection, and features very little information on Dracula, but it does have an exhibition on different scary myths and folklores of Romania.

It’s a 30-minute drive from Brasov and parking is readily available. I recommend parking in the village instead of the desginated parking spots to avoid paying for parking.

On the return trip, visit Rasnov Fortress, originally built for defense purposes of the nearby Transylvanian villages.

Its strategic location led to the construction of houses, a chapel, and a school within its walls. The remains, including a watchtower, are still visible today.

4. Hiking the Piatra Craiului Mountains or Seven Ladders Canyon

If you are a hiking enthusiast and the hike up Mount Tampa only got you warmed up, head over to the Piatra Craiului Mountains for more hiking trails! Though there are many routes to choose from, the one we did was an easy 4-hour Zarnesti Gorge hike.

The trail guides you through the bottom of the gorge and offers a serene and placid atmosphere, perfect for anyone traveling in Romania with kids or family.

If you want a more difficult hike, there are plenty to choose from the Piatra Craiului mountain range. Alternatively, you can visit the famous Seven Ladders Canyon hike , a hike that requires you to climb up a metal ladder.

In return, you can see 7 stunning waterfalls! Though it sounds difficult, the trail is quite easy and safe.

5. Peles Castle, The Most Beautiful Castle in Romania

Though Bran Castle is the most famous castle in Romania, it is by far not the most beautiful.

In the Sinaia region of Romania is a Neo-Renaissance castle called Peles Castle, and it is considered one of the most beautiful castles in the world!

Built by King Carol I, Peles Castle took a total of 10 years to construct. By the end, the palace had more than 170 ornate rooms, including a concert hall and a movie theater.

Architecturally, a blend of Neo-Renaissance, Gothic Revival, and Saxon influence can be seen. The interior decor is mostly Baroque influenced, featuring carved wood and eloquent fabrics.

Everything in the rooms is lavishly designed and furnished, and it is so meticulous that visitors have to put on plastic shoe covers to enter. The only way to enter the castle is with one of their daily guided tours.

When purchasing your ticket, you have to decide whether you are interested in seeing both floors of the palace or just the lower floor. A tour to only the lower floor costs 50 lei, while a tour to both costs 100 lei.

We did the tour of the lower floor and were impressed by the extravagant palace. It is no wonder why many people refer to the Peles Castle as a fairytale castle. The Peles Castle is a must on any Transylvania road trip itinerary!

Where To Stay In Brasov, Romania

Best Hostel In Brasov –  JugendStube Hostel

If you are looking for a no-frills hostel with a decent free breakfast, spacious rooms, comfortable beds, and a nice common area to socialize with other travelers, then JugendStube Hostel is perfect for you. The staff at the reception is friendly and will answer any questions you have about Brasov.

Best Hotel In Brasov –  Safrano Palace

Safrano Palace is a hotel in Brasov that offers luxury at an affordable price. The rooms are spacious, clean, and offer some of the most comfortable beds. The receptionist is always there to assist you with anything. The free breakfast is diverse and delicious, the perfect way to start your day in Brasov!

Bucharest, The Capital of Romania (2 Days)

Alas, you have arrived at your final destination – Bucharest, the capital of Romania.

The metropolitan city of Bucharest is the center of culture, education, and finance in Romania. Nicknamed “ Paris of the East ”, the elegant architecture of the historic center will certainly make you fall in love if the delicious Romanian cuisine hasn’t.

When you are not strolling down Bucharest historical streets or enjoying the charming parks, visit some of the city’s hidden historic churches . With its deeply Eastern Orthodox religion , many churches here are stunning architecturally with lavish interior designs. There are many  reasons to visit Bucharest .

Once you have arrived in Bucharest, there is really no need for a car . Most of the attractions in Bucharest are concentrated in the historic center. If not, then they are accessible by the convenient public transportation system.

In fact, we recommend you to get rid of the car as soon as possible after arriving in Bucharest, as traffic and the lack of parking can be a real issue.

Two days is the optimal amount of time in Bucharest. Outside of the historic center, there really isn’t much to do. Some visitors might even stay just  one day in Bucharest .

Things To Do in Bucharest, Romania

Here are our recommended things to do in Bucharest, Romania.

1. FREE Walking Tour Bucharest

Yes, this is the third time we have talked about the free walking tours in Romania and it will be the last time! These free walking tours are just so great when you are trying to discover a new city on your own, especially one as big and rich in history as Bucharest.

The free walking tour company we recommend is still Walkabout Free Tours . We’ve had nothing but delight with their professional and humorous tour guides!

2. Palace of Parliament

The Palace of Parliament, or Palatul Parlamentului in Romanian, is the most famous building in Romania . Weighing about 4 billion kilograms or 9 billion pounds , the Palace of Parliament is the heaviest building in the world .

Well, that is not surprising considering that this administrative building is 84 meters (276 ft) tall and has a floor area of 365,000 square meters (3,930,000 sq ft) in a total of more than 1100 rooms combined. It is the second biggest building in the world, after the Pentagon in the United States.

Built in the late 20th century by the communist leader  Nicolae Ceaușescu , the Palace of Parliament was a display of Romania’s grandeur at the time. However, behind the facade of splendor, many Romanians were suffering from hunger and malnourishment.

The street that leads up to the Palace of Parliament (Bulevardul Unirii) was filled with buildings with elegantly designed front facades . However, if you visit the back of such buildings, you will notice many of them are dilapidated .

Guided tours of the Palace of Parliament occur daily almost every hour. However, you must make a reservation by phone before. Because of its popularity, we recommend you book a few days before your desired date of the tour.

3. Visit the Orthodox Churches and Monasteries (such Stavropoleos Monastery)

Bucharest is the home of many Orthodox churches and monasteries, and none are as famous and gorgeous as the Stavropoleos Monastery and New St. George Church .

Stavropoleos Monastery is a small Eastern Orthodox monastery built in 1724 in the charming Old Town of Bucharest for nuns. Boasting an elegantly-designed exterior in  Brâncovenesc style , the monastery is one of the most beautiful buildings in Bucharest.

Though the space is tiny, the interior is visually stunning with tasteful paintings and enchanting ceilings, and visitors can spend a good amount of time here admiring the ornate features. The entrance is free for the Stavropoleos Monastery, but a donation is always appreciated.

Known for its amazing paintings and artworks inside, the New St. George Church is another one of Bucharest’s churches worth visiting. The outside of the church features a statue of Constantin Brancoveanu , the ruler who was executed by the Ottomans when he refused to renounce his faith.

He became a saint of this Eastern Orthodox church and his remains can be found on display inside this church, the biggest church built during his reign.

4. Dine at Caru’ cu bere, The Oldest Restaurant in Bucharest

Dining at Caru’ cu bere is a quintessential experience in Bucharest. Translating to the “Beer Wagon”, Caru’ cu bere is the oldest restaurant and brewery in Bucharest, and one of the best places for traditional Romanian cuisine.

Situated in an old historical building, stepping inside feels like you are stepping into a museum. With colorful ceilings, old wooden furniture, and stained glass windows, the atmosphere is warm and cheerful.

The food delicious, traditional, and reasonably priced, and the waiters are polite and ensure you have a good experience. If you ask any local Romanians for a restaurant recommendation, it is likely they will suggest Caru’ cu bere.

When dining at Caru’ cu bere, you cannot miss the signature roasted pork knuckle. Pair that with the traditional polenta soup, a dish made from boiled cornmeal! If you have an appetite, also try sarmale (traditional Romanian cabbage rolls) and Mititei (grilled ground meat rolls).

💪 Pro Tip: Caru’ Cu Bere is no longer a walk-in restaurant, so make your reservation in advance!

5. Visit the Cărturești Carusel (Carousel of Light) Bookstore

Inside the historical buildings of Old Town Bucharest is one of the most beautiful bookstores in the world, the Cărturești Carusel. Visiting bookstores is one of our favorite things to do when traveling because it just tells us so much about the country, and Cărturești Carusel is no exception.

The exterior of the bookstore isn’t exactly spectacular, but upon entering, you are transported to a cathedral for books. The elegant interior design, the geometrical layout, everything is just gorgeous. If you are looking for an Instagrammable spot in Bucharest, Cărturești Carusel is the place to go. 

Where To Stay in Bucharest, Romania

Best Hostel in Bucharest –  First Hostel

Hostels in Bucharest are abundant, and choosing the perfect one cannot be more difficult. We highly recommend First Hostel. As a hostel run by travelers, it is designed perfectly to meet the needs of travelers.

Featuring a clean kitchen and a small cozy common area, First Hostel is a social hostel perfect for meeting other travelers!

Best Hotel in Bucharest –  Concorde Old Bucharest Hotel

Featuring snazzy decor and comfortable rooms, the Concorde Old Bucharest Hotel is one of the best value-for-money hotels in Bucharest. Each big and spacious room comes with its own balcony, perfect for anyone that wants to bathe in the sun or just admire the views of Old Town Bucharest, where the hotel is conveniently located. The free breakfast buffet is a plus!

Other Places To Visit On Your Romanian Road Trip

If you have followed our Romania itinerary to the T, you will have yourself the perfect 2 weeks in Romania road trip. However, if you can allocate more time for your trip to Romania, there are plenty more amazing places to be discovered.

Below we will talk about some of our favorite places in Romania that you could add to your visit to Romania!

Constanta, The Romania Beach Town Next To The Black Sea

Constanta might be the only beautiful beach town in Romania, but it certainly does impress. Bordering the Black Sea, the beaches in Constanta are stunning. In the summer, you can expect locals and travelers from all over the world in this small city with over 2000 years of history.

If the weather permits, we would recommend visiting Constanta from Bucharest, potentially as a day trip or for a weekend.  The drive is a little more than two hours to get from Bucharest to Constanta. 

Timisoara, European Capital of Culture for 2021

Because of its location, Timisoara is one of the places in Romania that is not often visited by tourists. However, that will change in 2021, when Timisoara earns the title of the European Capital of Culture.

As the fourth-largest city in Romania, Timisoara has its own small-town lively vibe. The interesting history and the charming architecture of Timisoara make it an exciting place to visit for any type of traveler.

Timisoara is located in Western Romania, and it is a 3-hour drive from Sibiu and Cluj-Napoca.

Maramures County

Maramures county is considered the most traditional region in Romania. Home to many villages where century-old traditions are preserved, a visit to the Maramures county is like stepping back in time. Many women still wear their traditional dresses, live in their farmhouses, and go to wooden churches. 

The natural landscape in this region is incredible, as miles of greenery stretch beyond the horizon. I would highly recommend adding the Maramures region to your Romania trip!

Romania Road Trip FAQs

Is it safe to drive through romania, how good are the roads in romania, what’s the best time of year to go on a romania road trip.

Like this post? Don’t forget to save it on Pinterest!

A road trip through Romania offers an unforgettable journey through a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Whether you’re traversing the scenic Transfăgărășan Highway, exploring medieval Saxon villages, or immersing yourself in the legends surrounding Bran Castle, there’s always something fascinating to discover.

We hope you enjoyed our Romania road trip itinerary blog post, have a good time in Romania! Any questions? Leave them in the comments!

Disclaimer: Some of the links above are affiliate links. That means if you book or make a purchase through the links, we will earn a small commission at  no extra cost to you ! The money will help run this site! Thank you !

World Traveler, Travel Blogger, Photographer

LivingOutLau

Sean is the founder of the travel blog, LivingOutLau. He has been to over 30 countries in over 5 years of travel. Every day, he is traveling and sharing his discoveries of the world through exceptional travel guides on his blog!

2 thoughts on “An EPIC Romania Road Trip: 2-Week Itinerary Thru Transylvania In 2024”

Thank you for highlighting all these beautiful places in my native country. I will be visiting Romania after many years away so I will make sure I will be in some places that you have mentioned but that I have missed in previous visits.

It is my pleasure. Romania was very kind to me and I cannot wait to go back and explore the countryside more!

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The Perfect 10-Day Romania Road Trip Itinerary & Map: 7 Unmissable Stops

From the busy capital of Bucharest to the towering mountains of Transylvania, Romania is an Eastern European nation with plenty of adventure, culture, and history just waiting to be uncovered. 

One of the best ways to do this is by taking a road trip around the whole country. There are so many epic viewpoints and tiny villages to stop off in Romania that having your own set of wheels gives you the option to have a completely bespoke trip, exactly how you like it. 

The roads are generally in good condition, and the traffic (outside of Bucharest) is manageable – so what are you waiting for? Whether you have a week, let’s delve into this Romania road trip itinerary and show you the places you can discover with your own wheels whether you have a week, 10 days, or 2 weeks!

Tips for driving in Romania

Exploring Romania by car is a great idea! The country is connected by rail and bus networks, but they can be a little unreliable, so many locals opt to fly instead. 

However, if you do that you’ll miss out on lots of gorgeous little towns and epic viewpoints on your journey! So, we think that road tripping is the answer.

To help with your planning, here are some tips for driving in Romania: 

• Romania drives on the right-hand side of the road, like most of Europe, the USA, and Canada.
• Speed limits are in kilometers per hour, with highways having a limit of a rather speedy 130 kilometers per hour (remember, you don’t have to go that fast!)
• If you’re traveling with a child under 12, they aren’t allowed to go in the passenger seat at the front of the car. 
• There is a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to drink driving, so don’t drive even if you’ve just had a small drink. 

Car rental in Romania

Lots of car rental companies, like Hertz and Europcar, operate in Romania. You can rent a car straight from Bucharest airport, or there are rental offices in the city. If you’re spending some time exploring Bucharest initially, you probably won’t need a car, so it’s a good idea to hire the car on the day that you leave the city! 

Romania Road Trip Itinerary

Ready to uncover all the stops you cannot miss on a proper Romanian road trip? Here’s an itinerary map of what this post will cover:

Bucharest: 1-3 Days

The capital city of Romania, Bucharest is where most road trips around the nation begin and end. This is for various reasons; it’s where you’ll likely fly into, you’ll have the best selection of car rental companies, and most of the main roads of Romania end up in Bucharest!

You may in fact end up crossing through Bucharest a couple of times on your trip, but it’s a great idea to spend a couple of days seeing all that the city has to offer before renting a car and heading out on your trip. 

Here are the main attractions of Bucharest: 

• The Palace of the Parliament: This is the heaviest administrative building in the world and the second largest after the Pentagon. Built by Communist dictator Ceaușescu but never actually used by him, you can take a tour here to learn about the oppressive Communist regime in Romania. 
• The “new” old city: Only built in the early 2000s, this “old town” was established to encourage more tourists to post-Communist Bucharest. Nowadays, it’s the heart of the city, with lots of cafes, bars, and restaurants. 

• Ceaușescu’s mansion: This is another important attraction to visit to understand Communist Bucharest. Ceaușescu’s mansion is opulent and glamorous, and it stands as contrast to how the average Romanian lived during the era. 
• Romanian village museum: This is a great way to learn about rural Romania, which you’ll be visiting soon on your road trip! There are exhibits about different regions in Romania through the ages. 
• The churches: Romania is a deeply religious country, and the churches are wonderful places to learn about their spirituality. Particularly, visit the Antim Monastery, which was one of the churches that was moved on railings during Ceaușescu’s rule. 
• Cărturești Carusel: Weather not so kind when you’re in Bucharest? This bookshop is among the most Instagrammable places in the city! 

Do you only have 2 days in Bucharest? Then check our 48h in Bucharest guide .

Where to stay in Bucharest

Capitol Hotel is a four-star property that’s located in the heart of Bucharest, in one of its historic buildings. You’ll find well-furnished rooms with plenty of deluxe offerings, holding onto some of the property’s original features as well as having all the mod-cons you’ll need! 

Constanta: 1-2 Days

Constanta is around a two-hour drive from Bucharest and is one of the country’s favorite beachside locations, as it’s on the Black Sea. 

In the summertime, it’s among the most popular tourist destinations in the country, with three beaches that are perfect for sunbathing and relaxing. You could also visit Mamaia, a lively resort town that’s close by! 

Alternatively, Constanta has lots of urban attractions, including an Art Deco casino, various museums, and a fascinating planetarium. 

Where to stay in Constanta

Hotel Megalos is a mere 500 meters from the Black Sea, so it’s ideal for a beach break in Constanta! Enjoy traditional rooms with luxury bedlinen and comfortable mattresses here. 

Iași: 1-2 Days

Not many tourists visit Iasi. Sitting on the border of Romania and Moldova, it’s most famous for being a university destination. However, it’s a culturally rich city – the second largest in Romania and it has been both the capital of Moldova (before it became a separate country) and the capital of Romania. This fascinating history makes it well worth a stopover on your Romania itinerary!

First, visit the Palace of Culture, which is a magnificent building constructed in the early 20th century and is home to a few museums, including the Moldovian History Museum – a must-visit to get to grips with this area. 

There are plenty of monasteries to visit within the city and Europe’s second oldest synagogue. Plus, botanical gardens and lots of lush parks and green spaces make the city a wonderful place to amble around. 

From Iasi, you can either drive back through Bucharest or take some mountainous roads to get to Brasov. The route that you take depends on what time of year it is. If you’re visiting Romania in winter , I’d recommend avoiding mountain roads and taking the highway (some roads may even be closed in the snow). 

However, if it’s the summertime, driving around the mountainous roads is an experience in itself! 

Where to stay in Iasi

The Hotel Moldova is in a prime position right in the center of the city, with views over the Palace of Culture. The rooms are quite historic but have a certain charm to them, and there is a gym and indoor swimming pool on site. 

Brașov: 1-3 Days

A charming town sitting in the heart of Transylvania , Brasov is a must-visit in Romania. The cobblestone streets are lined by historic buildings, and the entire city basks in a mountainous valley. Don’t miss hiking up to the Brasov sign and taking in the gorgeous views over the whole town! 

It’s a wonderful town to walk around in and admire, but it’s also in a prime location to see some of Romania’s best castles. These include: 

Bran Castle: This is well-known as Dracula’s castle, although it doesn’t actually have a connection to the book or Vlad the Impaler, who the character Dracula is based on (apart from he may have been imprisoned there at some point!). However, it’s a medieval castle steeped in history, and it certainly looks as if Dracula could be hanging out here… 

Peles Castle: A real fairytale castle, this building used to be home to the Romanian royal family. They ended up fleeing after World War Two due to the rise of Communism and anti-royal movement, and never returned. You can enjoy the exterior of the castle and pay an extra fee to see the opulent inside. 

Poenari Castle: This is the actual Dracula’s castle! Dating back to the 13th century, it was where Vlad the Impaler lived and it sits at 800m height, looming over the surroundings – you can only reach it by climbing 1480 stone steps! 

You could also visit neighboring Rasnov. This is a smaller town with a glorious citadel, which is a fortress dating back to the 13th century, from which you can take in incredible views of the town and surrounding area.

If you have time, make sure to stop in Sighisoara and Târgu Mureș before reaching the next stop, Cluj-Napoca.

Where to stay in Brasov

Hotel Bella Muzica is located right in the heart of town, in a 16th-century building that’s been renovated perfectly to showcase traditional features yet still provide ultimate luxury. Reception is open 24 hours and there is a bar and restaurant on-site. 

Cluj-Napoca: 1-2 Days

Known as the capital of Transylvania, Cluj-Napoca is a lively city where there’s always something to do. 

It centers on Unirii Square, which is part of the old town (in this case, it’s an actual old town, not like the one in Bucharest!). 

St Michael’s Church imposes on the square with its Gothic architecture, and you can also explore the National Art Museum here. 

As it’s a student city, there are tonnes of exciting bars and a great cafe scene. 

It’s also worth getting out the city to see the Salina Turda (Turda salt mine) which has been a mine, a bomb shelter and more recenly, a funfair. It’s a surreal attraction that’s definitely worth visiting when you’re in the area! 

If you want to enjoy some of Transylvania’s best nature, you can also visit Cheile Turzii nature reserve, which is perfect for hiking, or see the stunning Lake Tarnița. 

Where to stay in Cluj-Napoca

Hotel Belvedere is close to the centre of Cluj-Napoca, and boasts well kitted out rooms with comfortable beds, traditional features and an indoor swimming pool and spa. There’s also a restaurant on-site! 

Sibiu: 1-2 Days

The adorable town of Sibiu is Romania’s best-kept secret. A Transylvanian gem, this town looks straight out of a fairy tale, and it’s a wonderful place to pause, enjoy some authentic Romanian food and drink and reflect on your road trip so far! 

Sibiu is the kind of city that you could spend hours walking around in, taking in the beautiful colored houses on either side of the street and ambling around winding streets. However, attractions include the 15th-century ​​Piata Mare, which is home to the gorgeous Catholic Basilica. There’s also an Orthodox Cathedral which has incredible murals on the walls! 

The Bridge of Lies is another popular tourist spot; it’s a tiny multi-level bridge that spans between two buildings.

When driving south from Sibiu, you might want to take the Transfagaran Highway route.

This is the windy highway that makes it onto lots of people’s Romanian bucket lists! It looks intimidating, but it is kept in good condition; just be careful when driving around the bends. 

Where to stay in Sibiu

MyContinental Sibiu is a modern hotel with great views from the upper floors. Located on the town’s main boulevard, it’s easy to access all of the city’s best attractions from here. In the rooms, enjoy deluxe bedlinen and gorgeous en-suite bathrooms. 

Craiova: 1 Day

Romania’s seventh-largest city is somewhere that doesn’t make it onto everyone’s Romania road trip itinerary. The city center boasts gorgeous Belle Epoque architecture, and it’s regarded amongst locals to be one of the prettiest cities in Romania. It also has a few attractions to offer travelers, including a natural history museum and a few pretty Cathedrals. 

But the main reason to visit Craiova is for its impressive festive market, which runs from late November through December every year. 

While Romania is a very Christmassy country, and there are tonnes of festive markets throughout the nation, Craiova’s is arguably the best. They use over a million LED light bulbs to illuminate the market, which sells souvenirs made by local artists and delicious festive food. There’s an ice rink here too! 

Where to stay in Craiova

Hotel Europeca is a comfortable hotel with a few different room types, including an apartment and standard rooms. Rooms have features like soft grey carpet and comfortable sofas, and breakfasts are included in your room rate. 

As you can see, there’s so much to enjoy in beautiful Romania. Driving is the ideal way to explore this country, as having your own vehicle will allow you to go by your own schedule and make as many stops as you like along the way! So grab your ticket to Bucharest, hire a car and start exploring this wonderful nation!

Claire is a world traveler who blogs about Europe in winter . She aims to help other travelers explore the continent in the cooler months through her informative blog posts and travel journalism.

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Romania Road Trip Itinerary

Mark Stewart May 12, 2019 Destinations 6 Comments

Romania is the perfect country for a road trip. Long, winding roads cut through deep green valleys, across wide plains, and over monolithic mountains. It’s not uncommon to begin your day sipping coffee at a chic cafe in some sprawling city. Then find yourself enjoying lunch on the edge of a glacial lake, in the towering Carpathians, just a few hours later. Throw in a castle or two along the way, and you’ve got yourself a fairly standard day from a Romanian road trip itinerary.

The ability to reach remote, peaceful little farming villages, is an experience difficult to do without your own wheels. Being able to drive one of the worlds most exciting roads — the legendary Transfagarasan highway — is reason alone to take a road trip in Romania. On top of it all, rental prices are considerably cheaper than most of Europe, making driving in Romania a great option.

So get your car snacks packed and prepare to have one arm tanned more than the other. It’s time to road trip Romania!

Road Tripping in Romania!

This itinerary follows almost exactly the journey we took on our second road trip through Romania. The first was in the far north, in the spectacular region of Maramures. And while visiting that area is highly recommended, it doesn’t offer many of the sights people actually come to Romania to see. Our itinerary will take you through the centre of Romania, to the castles and mountains of Transylvania.

Bucharest is a fantastic city, it reminds me of Belgrade or Budapest. It’s got a gritty feel to it, without a dangerous vibe. Before beginning your road trip proper, I’d highly suggest spending a few days exploring the sights of Bucharest.

The reason I said before, is that while car rentals are relatively cheap in Romania, everything costs more in Bucharest. So to save a ton of cash, and the headache of driving through the congested city, you’ll be starting the road trip itself in Sibiu.

The Absurdly Massive Romanian Parliament in Bucharest

Take either the train or a bus from Bucharest to Sibiu. Both options are fairly similar in cost and duration of the journey. Personally, I prefer train travel, as you often see a lot of scenery in areas you otherwise wouldn’t. Flying is an option as well, if you’re fancy like that.

Before picking up your car, spend a couple of nights in Sibiu, it’s a wonderful city. Wander the streets, eat some fantastic food (Crama Sibiul Vechi is a great option!), and snap a few photos of the iconic “squinting eye” windows.

Alright, it’s time to get this Romanian road trip started.

Road Trip: Romania!

Car rental in sibiu.

We rented from multiple companies during our time in Romania, and without a doubt, Klasswagen is our top pick. Their prices are unbeatable and the office has a great location on the side of town you’ll be leaving from. (We are in no way affiliated with Klasswagen, they were just really good!)

Take either a taxi or bus (#11) from the centre of Sibiu to the Airport. It’s only 10-15 minutes away, but away from the traffic of the city. If taking the bus, purchase a ticket from one of the machines at the bus stop. It should be 1.50 lei. The Klasswagen office is a few minutes walk back towards the city centre from the Airport. It’s on the north side of the road in an industrial area.

Whatever time you pick up the car, be sure to set the drop-off time for later in the afternoon. This is important for the final day of the trip.

Sibiu to Hunedoara

Once you’ve picked up your sweet ride, it’s time to get started. Head west from Sibiu to the town of Hunedoara, a couple of hours away.

Hunedoara itself is a fairly standard Romanian city, it doesn’t have a whole lot to offer in the centre. However, just on the outskirts of town, is one of the most incredible castles in the entire country.

Corvin Castle is straight out of a fantasy movie. With its sharp spires, capping ancient stone towers, and long wooden bridge over the stream below. It’s truly an epic sight — and I don’t throw that word around lightly.

If you make it to Hunedoara in time, head to the castle late in the afternoon for some great photos. The grounds close at 5 pm, so arrive a little before this for the best lighting and lack of crowds. The following morning, head back to the castle and head inside, you can spend hours exploring the different rooms.

• Cost: Adult, 30 lei
• Hours: Mon. – 12 – 5, Tues. to Sun. – 9 – 5

Corvin Castle. How Awesome is this!?

Hunedoara to Baile Olaneşti – A long drive day.

The following morning, head south from Hunedoara towards Petroşani. Note the unusual houses on the outskirts of Hunedoara, brightly coloured with ornate silvery towers. These are owned by wealthy Roma people, commonly (and derogatorily) known as gypsy’s. You’ll find houses like this throughout Romania, though this was one of the largest concentrations we came across.

Stop to check out Peştera Bolii, a massive cave tunnelling beneath the earth. To reach the other side, you must cross several bridges over the river flowing within. It’s an impressive sight and not far from the highway.

Make your way south from Petroşani, through the majestic Defileul Jiului National Park and stop at the Lainici Monastery for some wonderful photos. Continue toward Targu Jiu and turn east, following highway 67 until you pass the Garden of Paradise. This painted forest contains nearly 600 trees, coloured to protest deforestation. It’s stumbling upon peculiar sights like this that make road trips so awesome.

Passing through the town of Horezu, you’ll notice a lot of ceramics. It’s their specialty in these parts, and if you’re looking to pick this sort of thing up, this is the place to do so. Also, there’s a great restaurant as you enter the town called Restaurant 2 Cocosi, right on the side of the highway. They have an extensive menu with huge portions of classic Romanian dishes at really great prices.

After lunch, if you feel like checking out another beautiful monastery head north on 669 and stop in at Horezu Monastery. I think it’s the nicest of all the monasteries in the area.

To reach Baile Olaneşti, continue heading east on highway 67. To take the scenic route, turn left towards Stoenesti on 651 and follow the winding road past tiny villages and horse-drawn wagons. For the less-scenic drive, continue all the way to Ramnicu Valcea and turn northwest from here. Once you arrive at the end of the highway in Baile Olaneşti, settle in and wander the quiet streets for the evening. In the morning, treat yourself to some time at the TISA Spa Resort (and splurge on one of their incredible massages!) before getting back on the road.

Bran Castle, one of the most Iconic Sights in Romania

Bran to Brasov

When you’re done exploring the castle grounds and snacking at the carts near the entrance, it’s time to move on. This time only an hour up the road to Brasov.

Explore the city centre and walk one of the smallest roads in Europe . Hike (or take the gondola) up the mountain to the famous Brasov sign for some stunning views. Recharge at one of the many cafes lining the main square or eat some more great Romanian cuisine at Restaurant Transylvania or Draculas Cave. Don’t let the tourist-trap names fool you, both have delicious food!

Brasov to Sighisoara

From Brasov , you’ll drive north towards Sighisoara. Along the way, stop at Rupea and marvel at the old, crumbling fortress, towering above the town below (10 lei entrance fee). From Rupea, take a slight detour from the main highway and visit the tiny village of Viscri. This well-preserved town is a wonderful glimpse into what life has been like here for centuries.

Spend the night in Sighisoara and rise early to catch the first light of morning warm the colourful buildings. Wander the winding streets and climb to the top of the city. Explore the oddly-beautiful cemetery behind the cathedral here.

Final Day, or do you want more?

If time permits, consider spending an extra few days travelling further north. Take in some more fantastic architecture in Targu Mures or Cluj-Napoca, t he capital city of Transylvania. Stop in the salt mines of Turda or the majestic gorge of the same name.

For those on a tighter schedule, once you’re done in Sighisoara, it’s time for the final day. On the drive back to Sibiu, be sure to check out the fortified church of Biertan; an impressive sight that many skip over.

• Cost: 10 lei
• Hours: Tues. to Fri. & Sun. 10 – 7 (closed from 1-2), Sat. 10 – 5

Stunning Sighisoara at Sunrise

Exploring the streets of Sibiu

Now, remember at the beginning when I mentioned organizing the car return for late in the afternoon? When you arrive back in Sibiu, spend the afternoon visiting the ASTRA National Museum Complex. This outstanding outdoor museum showcases traditional Romanian culture throughout the centuries.

It is possible to visit by bus or taxi, but since you’ve already got the ride, you might as well use it!

• Cost: Mon. & Tues. 12 lei, Rest of Week 17 lei
• Hours: Winter: 9 – 5, Summer: 10 – 8

Once back at Klasswagen, organize a ride back into Sibiu. The company should offer you a ride, if not, just ask. Kick back in the centre of town as the sun sets, sip on a cold beer or glass of wine and celebrate the completion of your Romanian road trip.

Plan your Trip to Romania

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Lovely pictures. This is a great way to see more of this country if you have a few days on your hands

Yes, if you can swing a week this is the perfect list of places to see. How much time do you have?

Rimania is indeed one of the most pictoresc country in Europe. I believe the capital of Transilvania is Alba Iulia, not Cluj Napoca, which the visitor should have not avoid while driving from Sibiu to Hunedoara.

I love that region of Romania so much! Though as far as I can find, Cluj is the capital of Transylvania.

That said, I looked up Alba Iulia and it looks wonderful. When we return to Romania, we’ll definitely give it a visit and hopefully add it to our road trip itinerary!

This was SOOOO helpful for the impromptu trip we’re planning. This saved me so many hours of research. Thank you!

Awesome! We have tonnes of Romania information!! Let us know if you need anymore help for your trip, we LOVE Romania and would love to help you plan!

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Road Trip In Romania: 5 Unique Itineraries

• November 1, 2023

There’s no better feeling than hitting the open road with the promise of a good time and a lifetime of memories. Getting to discover new uncharted places along the way, making new friends, and living the best life must be something we all look forward to experiencing.

Some say that life is like a highway; in that case, a road trip certainly is the pulse that keeps every adventure-seeker alive. If you were thinking of planning your next road trip, then Romania could be the place for a guaranteed adventure.

This country has so much to offer, and there are places just waiting for you to be discovered. If you’re ready to embrace an epic Romania road trip, our guide will help you along the way. We’ve prepared a complete overview of driving in Romania, things you must be aware of, and of course, an excellent five days itinerary. Ready to discover what your next successful trip should look like? Read on and find out!

Best Time To Go On A Road Trip in Romania

Whether you prefer the sun or the slopes, there’s no such thing as the perfect time to visit Romania. This country is beautiful all year round, and with an environment so diverse, it’s almost impossible to pick the right time. Thus, it all depends on your weather preferences. Now let’s see what makes every season so unique in this European destination.

Wintertime is perfect for those looking to enjoy heavy snow and winter sports. Around this time of the year, temperatures vary around 0°C. Also, it is the ideal time to enjoy mulled wine and hearty Romanian food and gaze at the magical views. We’re not even exaggerating, Romania looks just like a fairytale place when covered in snow. However, if you choose a road trip in winter, pay attention to the forecast and make sure your car is ready for snowy roads.

When the lovely spring covers the entire land of Romania, you can see how nature is reborn. The forests return to their emerald green, fields are covered in colorful flowers again, and you get warm temperatures for your exploration sessions. Even though the weather can be a little tricky, in May, temperatures hit 23 °C, which means that it is warm enough for a forest trip.

Most travellers prefer summertime for their road trip in Romania as the weather is warmer and all main attractions and landmarks are open again. On average, summer temperatures range between 25°C and 35°C, so it gets pretty warm in the cities. This is the perfect time for a road trip as you can access all famous places and fantastic hidden gems.

Even though days get shorter, the temperature is still acceptable for an unforgettable road trip. You’ll have the chance to admire the beautiful autumnal colors that cover the mountains and forest paths, giving you a picture-perfect landscape. Also, another benefit is that everything gets less crowded. Autumn in Romania is always a great idea!

How Many Days Do You Need For A Romania Road Trip?

On average, travellers who choose Romania as their destination for a road trip take between 5 to 14 days. While five days could be enough for just one region, fourteen days will definitely give you the proper time to explore even the hidden gems. It all depends on how much time you want to spend in the area and how many things you want to see. Of course, the itinerary can be adapted to the time you choose.

Driving in Romania

When driving in Romania, ensure you are adequately prepared for every situation since this country has strict traffic laws. Traffic police have the power to confiscate any form of driver’s license or permit for one to three months. They may also keep a driver’s license for driving under the influence of alcohol or causing an accident resulting in harm or death.

There is no tolerance for driving under the influence of alcohol or using your phone while driving. Also, in this country, children under 12 years can’t be seated in the front seat, and all occupants must wear seat belts.

Roads & Regulations

If you’re planning on staying in the country for a maximum of 90 days, you can drive in Romania with any international driving license. A kindly piece of advice for a successful road trip is to choose the national roads to have plenty of time admiring the surrounding stunning nature and the beauty of the countryside. However, you must pay attention to speed limits on Romanian roads. Here are the speed limits you should be aware of:

• 50 km/h – inside the cities or villages (unless the road signs mention something else).
• 90 km/h – on the other categories of roads outside the built-up areas.
• 100 km/h – on express, national and European roads.
• 130 km/h – on the motorway.

Another thing we want to highlight is the fact that in Romania, you will drive on the right side of the road. So, before venturing on your next trip, get to know all the regulations to avoid any bumps on the road.

Parking is never an issue on a Romanian road trip. You can easily find a free spot anywhere. You’ll find parking spaces that require a minimal fee in the vast majority of the most famous Romanian tourist attractions. You may pay the fee on the spot at a specific machine or via SMS directly to the parking administrators.

As we already mentioned, you’ll need somewhere between five to fourteen days to explore the untamed beauty of Romania. To help you a little bit, we’ve put together a list of 5 Fantastic Itineraries For A Road Trip In Romania to choose from for your next holiday. And remember that you can count on us to plan your trip to Romania.

Here are our top choices.

Itinerary 1: Scenic roads in Romania (7 days)

This 7-day itinerary is perfect for those interested in the scenic roads of Romania.

Day 1: Welcome to Bucharest Day 2: Peles Castle & Sinaia Day 3: Bran Castle & Rucar-Bran pass Day 4: Poenari fortress & Transfagarasan road Day 5: Sibiu /Driving to Paltinis Day 6: Transalpina, the highest road in Romania Day 7: Back to Bucharest

There’s no better deal than driving on Romania’s most scenic routes for seven days. This country is famous for its breathtaking scenery and for being a place where nature is still wild and undiscovered. The diverse landforms shape the almost magical scenery, offering an aesthetically pleasing view.

Your seven-day road trip is filled with unique attractions starting with the capital, Bucharest. Discover other 7-day itineraries for your trip here. You’ll get to experience city life and several landmarks that made this nation famous worldwide.

Then the real road trip begins on the medieval route linking Transylvania and Wallachia, where Peles Castle is placed. This Neo-Renaissance beauty was built for King Karol I. After gazing at this stunning architectural jewellery, you’ll discover the natural beauty of Sinaia. This is one of Romania’s finest holiday resorts, located deep into the Carpathian Mountains. It is mostly famous for its natural beauty and the rumoured medicinal properties of its mineral springs.

The itinerary continues with the legendary Bran Castle and the Rucar-Bran pass, just in time to see the Poenari fortress. This journey wouldn’t be complete without driving on one of the most beautiful roads in Romania—Transfagarasan, which leads the way to Transylvania.

You’ll then stop in Sibiu, this charming medieval city that boasts a bohemian atmosphere.  After you get all the positive energy of the city, it’s time to explore the curvy roads of Paltinis, which is right next to Sibiu.

If by now you’re impressed by the views, get ready to discover the highest road in Romania—Transalpina. Here you’ll also have the chance to see the natural beauty of Lake Oasa and Oltet Gorge and experience peace and silence at Polovragi Monastery.

Itinerary 2: Grand tour of Romania (10 days)

The Grand tour of Romania will show you the best of this country in 10 days.

Day 1: Bucharest – the capital of Romania Day 2: Peles Castle, Bran Castle & Brasov Day 3: Bicaz gorge & Red lake Day 4: Painted monasteries of Bucovina Day 5: Merry Cemetery and the wooden churches in Maramures Day 6: Bontida castle & Cluj Napoca Day 7: Turda salt mine & Alba Iulia Day 8: Sibiu medieval city Day 9: Biertan Fortified Church & Sighisoara Day 10: Curtea de Arges monastery & back to Bucharest

Ten days are sufficient for an epic road trip in Romania. The Grand tour of Romania starts with the capital, Bucharest, where you’ll have the chance to see the symbolic House of The People and other essential landmarks.

Then the real adventure starts with visiting two of the most iconic castles of Romania, Peles and Bran. While Peles looks like a castle depicted in a fairytale, Bran will make you feel like you step into Bram Stocker’s novel. You’ll then stop in Brasov, a lovely medieval city famous for its landmarks such as The Black Church, The Rope Street (Sforii), the First Romanian School, Tampa Mountain and many others.

The journey continues to Bicaz gorge, an incredibly scenic canyon located on the boundary of Neamt and Harghita counties in the historical region of Transylvania. You’ll also have the chance to see the famous Red Lake. It is also known as “The Killer Lake” partly because of its reddish, blood-like colour. This is also the perfect spot to hear spooky legends.

The grand tour continues with the emblematic painted monasteries of Bucovina and their peculiar paintings. Their painted exterior walls are decorated with elaborate 15th and 16th-century frescoes featuring portraits of saints and prophets, scenes from the life of Jesus, images of angels and demons, and heaven and hell.

From Bucovina, you’ll discover another part of Romania, where customs and traditions are very much alive, Maramures. Its wooden churches are a place for meditation, silence, and prayers. However, there is one place that you may not find that serious, which is the Merry Cemetery. Those who created this place had an interesting approach to death, making a cemetery with poems full of fun, joy, and laughter.

Moving forward to a more urban area, Cluj Napoca will delight you with its welcoming people and good food. Also, near the city is this fantastic beauty called Bontida Castle. This is the largest castle ensemble in Transylvania. Formerly known as the Transylvanian Versailles.

You cannot leave Cluj county without a visit to the famous Turda Salt mine. It’s a complete underground park that offers different kinds of entertainment in a healthy environment.

Alba Iulia will be the next stop because it allows you to admire the unique baroque architecture that was once the city’s citadel. Not far is another medieval town called Sibiu, with a rich history and remarkable architecture. You’ll have a great time wandering the narrow street and sipping a cup of tea at one of their cafes. Biertan Fortified Church will offer just the right experience for those looking for a bit of history. And for those who love taking post-card-worthy pictures, Sighisoara will provide the proper view.

On the road to Bucharest, you’ll stop at Curtea de Arges monastery, one of the most famous attractions in Romania. It’s also an excellent choice if you’re looking to discover centuries-old religious sites. Its unique architectural style makes it special even in Romania, which has hundreds of religious monuments.

Itinerary 3: Self-drive tour in Romania (12 days)

This is a perfect 12-day trip for a family holiday in Romania.

Day 1: Welcome to Bucharest Day 2: Discover Bucharest Day 3: Carpathian mountains and Peles Castle Day 4: Brasov medieval city and the Bran Castle Day 5: Explore Sighisoara Day 6: Targu Mures and Turda salt mine Day 7: Discover the Apuseni mountains Day 8: Corvin Castle and the Bear cave Day 9: Deva fortress and Alba Iulia Day 10: Take a long walk in Sibiu Day 11: Drive on Transfagarasan Day 12: Good-bye, Romania!

Nothing beats a self-drive tour if you want to explore everything on your own. Like every other itinerary, this journey also starts with Bucharest and its incredible buildings. You’ll then venture to the mythical Carpathian Mountains and stop at Peles Castle.

Still covered in thick forests and emerald green, Brasov, the medieval city, will invite you to explore its spectacular streets and main attractions. Of course, you cannot leave Brasov county without a visit to the famous Bran Castle.

On a much more colourful and vibrant tone, Sighisoara, the small citadel, awaits to be explored. You’ll have the proper time to walk down the streets and take superb pictures if the weather is on your side.

Targu Mures is the true formula of harmony. You’ll discover here architectural masterpieces created by Romanian and Hungarian artists alike. Also, their citadel will give you an authentic feel of the past with its intact structure.

Relaxation at Turda salt mine is a must as you drive thru this little Transylvanian town. The former mine is now a substantial underground packed with all sorts of facilities. Not far from this area, you’ll have the opportunity to drive and walk to discover the mesmerising Apuseni Mountains.

The castle hunt continues with the stunning Corvin Castle, the largest medieval castle in Transylvania, surpassing even the mysterious Bran Castle and the royal Peles Castle. This unique castle is representative of the XVth century military architecture in SE Europe.

You’ll also stop at the Bear Cave, unique in Romania and Europe, thanks to the peculiar beauty of its rock formations and the fossilised remains of long-extinct cave bears.

You’ll then want to admire the view from the Deva fortress and walk along the Citadel in Alba Iulia. Walking is just as fantastic as driving, especially in a medieval town like Sibiu. You’ll have a full day to discover what the house’s “mysterious eyes” have to tell you.

This tour will end in style, meaning that you will drive on one of the most famous roads in Romania, Transfagarasan, which will offer a spectacular view.

Itinerary 4: Road trip in Transylvania (7 days)

Explore Transylvania on this 7-day road trip in the best-known region of Romania.

Day 1: Arrival and Bucharest tour Day 2: Road trip in Transylvania – Sibiu Day 3: A white citadel in Romania and Corvin castle Day 4: Biertan fortified church & Sighisoara citadel Day 5: Fagaras citadel and Brasov Day 6: Bran Castle and Rasnov citadel Day 7: Back to Bucharest

Even this legendary Transylvania road trip starts in Bucharest, where you’ll have the chance to explore the city’s main attractions. After that, you’ll venture on iconic roads to reach the medieval town of Sibiu and its elegant streets.

You’ll marvel at the white citadel in Alba Iulia, filled with plenty of baroque architecture that pleases the eyes. The exploration continues with a visit to Corvin Castle, a stunning masterpiece of the past.

The past is celebrated in Romania through a lot of landmarks. Another piece of architecture that will leave you in awe is Biertan Fortified Church. Not to mention the complex, colourful buildings of Sighisoara citadel.

On your way to the famous mountain town Brasov, you’ll stop to see the impressive Fagaras citadel, one of the best-preserved feudal castle complexes in the country. A trip to Brasov is only complete with a stop at Bran Castle, perhaps the most famous Romanian landmark.

Because the itinerary is filled with history and exploration of the Romanian past, you’ll also stop at Rasnov citadel before retiring to Bucharest. The Rasnov Fortress is a Romanian historical monument used as a defence system for the Transylvania villages exposed to Tartar and Ottoman invasions.

Itinerary 5: Maramures and Bucovina tour (9 days)

This 9-day tour starting in Cluj Napoca was designed for those who want to see the northern Romania.

Day 1: Land in Cluj Napoca & explore the city Day 2: Visit Oradea Day 3: Maramures county: Sighetu Marmatiei and the Merry Cemetery in Sapanta Day 4: Traditional Maramures: wooden churches and beautiful villages Day 5: A steam train ride and Bucovina region Day 6: Bucovina – Painted monasteries tour: Sucevita, Moldovita, Voronet Day 7: Bucovina tourism: Suceava citadel and Cacica salt mine Day 8: Mountain resorts in Bucovina and Borgo pass Day 9: Back to Cluj-Napoca and goodbye, Romania!

If you’re ready to discover the customs and traditions of Romania, then this Bucovina and Maramures tour is perfect for you. Unlike the other itineraries, this one starts from Cluj Napoca, also known as the unofficial capital of Transylvania. This city boasts of a good life atmosphere, and you’ll have time to explore every corner of it.

The journey continues to Oradea, another beautiful Transylvanian city that keeps its historical buildings in the best shape. You’ll marvel at their unique art-nouveau architecture and vibrant colours.

Moving further north in Maramures, the next stop is Sighetu Marmatieu, the most northern city of Romania. You may discover its troubled past with communism with a visit to the “Memorial to the Victims of Communism”.

On a more humorous note upon death, Sapanta Cemetery will cheer you up with its peculiar tombstones. This cemetery is like no other since it has jokes and poems about the inhabitants, specially crafted to make you laugh.

In Maramures, you’ll also have the chance to experience traditional life by visiting its marvellous wooden churches and beautiful villages.

Another region that still keeps traditions alive is Bucovina. Here you will travel via steam train that is still fully functional and entertaining. Bucovina is filled with beautifully painted monasteries. Sucevita, Moldavia, and Voronet will be on your visit list. These are famous for their exterior frescos and a unique shade of blue called “albastru de Voronet”.

A complete Bucovina trip includes a few stops at Suceava citadel and Cacia Salt mine. You’ll have a few days to enjoy the fresh air of the mountains at some of the best Mountain resorts.

On your way back to Cluj Napoca, you’ll also pass through one of the most remarkable paths in Romania —Borgo pass, famous thanks to Bram Stoker’s novel Dracula.

When you’re ready to enjoy one of them, don’t hesitate to contact us. If you like to drive, we will prepare a self-drive tour for you based on the itinerary you choose. The main advantages of this type of tour is that we take care of everything (accommodation, car rental, your detailed itinerary and offer you assistance during the trip), while you just enjoy the experience.

Another option is a tour with guide, perfect for those who want a road trip but need someone else to do the driving part.

If you want to know more about Romania, you can read other blog posts .

Final Thoughts

Romania is a beautiful country with a lot of potential to become your next favourite holiday destination. Its untamed nature and exceptional scenery will offer the road trip of a lifetime and memories to cherish forever. Castles, forests, mountains, medieval cities, epic roads and many other wonders await. So don’t wait too long! Book an itinerary and start planning your road trip to Romania today.

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Epic Romania Road Trip Guide – Off the Beaten Path Itinerary

This Romania road trip guide describes an itinerary that loops through some of Romania’s most beautiful regions, 8 road trip stops in total. With the focus on smaller towns and nature, rather than larger, cities I will cover lots of off-the-beaten-path adventures through Romania’s unique landscapes and picturesque villages.

Three times I had tried visiting Romania before but something came in between every single time. The first time the weather seemed really bad so while on our way there we decided to do a Balkan road trip starting from Montenegro. The second time the travels stayed in planning fase and because of a worldwide pandemic that seemed pretty severe in Romania I decided to go to Slovakia instead. Third time’s a charm so in August of 2021 I finally made it to the beautiful country of Romania.

When I did this Romanian road trip I drove all the way from Belgium with my own car. It’s also perfectly possible to follow this route with a rented car starting in Bucharest or Cluj-Napoca. Also feel free to change the order or adjust this road trip loop according to your needs.

Find below my route on a Google map:

For each stop on this road trip I will suggest how many days you need but obviously you can adjust according to your own needs and wishes.

Table of Contents

General Romania knowledge

• Capital:  Bucharest
• Currency:  Romanian Lei (RON)
• Population:  19,3 million (2020)
• Language:  Romanian (English is quite widely spoken except for in the non-touristy small villages)

How is driving in Romania?

Around bigger cities the traffic can get quite hectic. When driving from Bucharest to Brasov for example I was in a traffic jam for about 2 hours. On the way to the Danube Delta there where huge traffic jams to get on the ferry as well. I noticed construction works of a new bridge were going on so soon this problem might be solved.

In Romania it is quite common to see farmers with horse carriages on small and larger roads. When entering a highway there’s a ‘no horse carriages allowed’ sign.

My experience traveling in Romania

In Romania people are genuinely friendly and not just because they want your tourist money, they actually care about helping you in the best way they can.

During my road trip throug Romania I especially loved the regions that are less touristy like the Maramures or Bucovina regions close to the border with Ukraine. When visiting Brasov for example there was a completely different atmosphere that I didn’t enjoy as much as other places. Especially Bran castle, which is the alleged Dracula castle, was a huge tourist trap in my opinion.

When it comes to cities I would say Sibiu was my favorite. I enjoyed the vibe of the city, also the colorful houses added to a nice city trip experience.

Enough with the introduction, let’s get to the actual Romania road trip itinerary now!

Romania road trip itinerary 1st stop is Breb: 3 hours driving from Cluj-Napoca 3 nights stay

The Maramures region together with the Danube Delta had always been pretty much on the top of my list when I was planning my Romania road trip. The more research I did, the more excited I got about it! Whenever I travel I’m looking for authentic experiences and in the Maramures there are plenty.

When looking for a nice hub to travel around from I marked Breb as my main place of interest. Because, as usual, I book accomodation pretty late. Everything that was a bit affordable seemed to be sold out in Breb. I decided to look around in one of the other towns around and noticed that Ocna Sugatag seemed a good alternative at only 10 minutes driving from Breb.

Also check out my Youtube video about the Maramures: Breb – Magical village in Maramures Romania

Places to stay around Breb

I stayed at Casa Alberta in Ocna Sugatag for about 120 Lei per night (24 EUR). Even though officially the price didn’t include breakfast, Ulrica, the owner prepared me a delicious breakfast. She wouldn’t accept me to pay for it. This happens often with Romanians. They are beyond friendly! While I was there they were busy building an indoor and outdoor pool. Hot tubs for winter time were available as well. It looked all very promising! Prices might go up I assume once all this new infrastructure is finished.

If you prefer to stay in Breb, some people told me about a great camping/hostel called Babou owned by Dutch people.

If you’re with a large group you could rent this Airbnb called Breb 148 . It accomodates up to 6 people. I haven’t stayed there but I met the owners and they are wonderful people! They also have a restaurant so if you happen to be in Breb I would 100% recommend to grab something to eat at their place Breb 148 local food and garden . I tried the Sarmale and it was delicious! Click here to find the exact location.

In total I spend 3 nights or 2 full days in the area of Breb and Ocna Sugatag and this is what I did:

1. Wander around Breb village

Immediately when driving towards the village of Breb you are greeted with a unique landscape. The hay stacked in Maramures style with in the background the church from Breb sure make for a beautiful view.

When arriving in the village the asphalted road stops and turns into gravel roads. It’s like this in the whole village. Don’t worry a 4×4 car is not necessary. The amount of potholes are fairly limited.

When I started exploring the village I met a German couple that recommended me to take the stairs inside the church tower to get a nice view over Breb. After entering through a side access door I arrived at the first floor of the church. The rest of the stairs looked pretty sketchy and it was full of pigeon poop so I decided to go back. However, just so you know it is possible to get up there!

While roaming through the village it was hard not to notice the wooden churches. These are quite typical for the Maramures region. To my surprise they were even building a new one. In Belgium churches are being demolished or sold off to private owners and in Romania I saw a few new churches being built. It really shows how much religion is still alive there. Apart from the impressive churches it’s just super relaxing to walk around and see how people are going by their daily lives. I really enjoyed the tranquility!

2. Visit Mara waterfall

After spending most of the day in Breb I decided to drive to Mara. I knew there was a waterfall there but didn’t really know what to expect.

Upon my arrival in Mara I was slightly dissapointed because of the amount of people that were there. It seemed that because of the waterfall, which is right next to the main street, lots of other tourist attractions were build.

The waterfall is the main attraction from Mara village. There’s a huge restaurant build around it. The restaurant stretches far beyond the waterfall. There are even tables higher up in the mountain. All I could think of, while having some delicious food, was how hard it must be for the waiters to cover so much distance when waiting the tables up there. A local friend recommended me to try the fish dish as that’s their specialty. Me, being not the biggest fish lover, I chose chicken instead. It was pretty good. Also the beer was approved!

Opposed to the Mara waterfall there are some bars. While walking up towards the first bar, which has a pool, I noticed there was another complex being built. Out of curiosity I walked past is and saw it was a huge bar with infinity pool. In the summer of 2021 it wasn’t ready yet but my guess would be by Spring or Summer 2022 it will be finished. So if you’re an infinity-pool-babe (or dude), you know what to do!

3. Hike to Creasta Cocosolui

A scenic 21 kilometer hike with an elevation gain of about 1000 meters that starts in the cosy little village of Breb in the Maramures region of Romania.

Basically you start in the center of Breb and follow the well marked red crosses until you reach the Creasta Cocosolui. The hike from Breb to Creasta Cocosolui and back to Breb took me about 7 hours in total.

The first kilometers are mostly through the forest. After a few hours you reach the meadows that lay at the foot of Creasta Cocosolui. The last hour towards the peak of about 1450 meter is the hardest but sure is worth it!

In this article I describe the complete hike in detail: Hike to Creasta Cocosolui from Breb in the Maramures in Romania.

2. Borsa and Rodna National Park

Romania road trip itinerary 2nd stop is Borsa: 2 hours driving from Breb 2 nights stay

Also in the Maramures region you find Borsa. This town is often described as the entrance to the Rodna National Park, is a true hiking paradise. If I would’ve had more time I would definitely plan some more hikes there. This national park alone is already a good reason to visit Romania again!

Places to stay in Borsa

Borsa is a city of about 28 000 inhabitants and has lots of accommodation options. If you’re planning to visit the waterfall I would recommend to stay in the same area as me. It’s basically at the foot of the chairlift to Cascada Cailor. There are lots of hotels around and there’s a restaurant called Pizzeria Rustika that serves great food. And despite the name they don’t only serve pizza!

Where I stayed:

• Pensiunea Timis ( link to Booking.com )
• Price was about 100 lei OR 20 EUR / night
• Click here to get the exact address

As it was possible to park my car on the parking of the guesthouse I didn’t have to bother looking for a parking to visit Cascada Cailor. I could walk straight to the chairlifts to get there.

There were basically 2 reasons that I visited Borsa and both involved waterfalls. One of the most famous waterfalls in Romania and one of the most hidden ones. Guess for which one I was the most excited?

1. Cascada Cheilor

While doing tons of research I found out about this ‘hidden’ waterfall in Romania. Apparently it’s not even sure what the name is of this masterpiece. According to Google it’s Cascada Cheilor, other sources call it Cascada Plaiul Scàri.

I had to search a bit and it was raining really hard that day but despite all that it was completely worth it. This waterfall was absolutely stunning and I had it all for myself! I made a Youtube video about the whole experience as well: Hunting hidden waterfalls in Borsa, Romania

This is my tracked route on Wikiloc:

Alternatively you can check out my route on Strava.

Download the GPX file right here:  Hike-to-waterfall-Cheilor-Borsa-Maramures-Romania.gpx

The good thing is it’s only about 30 minutes walking from Manastirea Pietroasa where you can park your car. There are also other hikes that start here.

For example the hike to the glacier lake Lacul Iezer that is protected by UNESCO. And if you’re really courageous you could continue hiking to the peak of Pietrosul Rodnei (2303 m). This article from the blog Here I hike describes in detail how to reach the top of Pietrosul Rodnei.

2. Cascada Cailor

Cascada Cailor is a 100 meter high waterfall that drops in three stages. It’s the highest waterfall in Romania so I really wanted to see this with my own eyes!

To get an idea of how the waterfall looks check out my youtube video.

The best way to get to Cascada Cailor is with the chairlifts. In Romanian this is called Telescaun. Official website of Telescaun Borsa Cascada Cailor.

Address: Strada Brădet 22, Borșa 435200, Romania

• 20 lei for adults
• 10 lei for kids younger than 12 years old
• 30 lei for adults
• 15 lei for kids younger than 12 years old

I decided to walk back so I bought a one-way ticket.

Reaching the waterfall:

The chairlifts are 2-seaters and as I was alone I got one all for myself. The journey to get up took about 20 minutes. When getting off from there’s a bar / restaurant where you could grab something to drink or eat. Also there are public toilets available. Now let’s get started on the walk to Cascada Cailor.

It is about a 45 minute walk to the waterfall and it’s mostly flat or descending. This is pretty effortless if you have basic fitness level. However I saw lots of people struggling to get back from the waterfall to the chairlift station. Glad I took another way back down!

Walking back:

When I saw the waterfall in the distance it looked pretty impressive. When I came closer however I noticed there wasn’t much water flowing down and there were lots of people. Of course it’s the highest waterfall in Romania so obviously this is a big tourist attraction. I climb up next to the waterfall to get a better angle on it. I spend about 20 minutes there and then slowly made my way back down. Just a few hundred meters away from the waterfall there are some benches next tot the river. I had a nice lunch break there while looking on my maps.me application how I could get back down. Info at the waterfall regarding hikes back down was non existent. Basically you follow the trail next to the river and in about 1h30 minutes you arrive on a road that leads you back to civilization.

In my Strava upload I started tracking just after I took the chairlift up until I made it back down to the village.

Upon my arrival I had a well deserved delicious Sarmale at Pizzeria Rustika. I know from the name you would think they only serve pizza but they actual had great local dishes as well!

3. Via Transilvanica – Bucovina

Romania road trip itinerary 3rd stop is Sadova: 2 hours driving from Borsa 4 nights stay

The Via Transilvanica is a hiking trail that is about 1200 kilometers long and starts in Putna in the North of Romania close to the Ukrainian border and ends in Drobeta Turnu-Severin at the Serbian Border. It is divided into sections of usually around 20 kilometer with each time a village at the start/end where you can book accomodation and eat something.

When I explain what the Via Transilvanica is to strangers I always tell them it’s the Santiago de Compostela from Romania.

If you want to follow the same route as me, I wrote an article that describes everything in detail here: Hiking The Via Transilvanica In Bucovina – Romania

4. Danube Delta

Romania road trip itinerary 4th stop is Tulcea: 8 hours driving from Sadova 4 nights stay

Originating in the Black Forest in Germany the Danube flows for about 2850 kilometer through 10 countries. The Danube Delta is the river delta created by the Danube right before it ends up in the Black Sea. The delta is shared between Romania and Ukraine with the largest portion being in Romania. 3,446 km 2  from the total area of 4,152 km 2  .

When reaching the delta the Danube branches out into the Chilia branch, the Sulina branch and the Sfantu Gheorghe Branch (Saint George). The Sulina and Sfantu Gheorghe branches are the most visited ones by tourists. In this article I will focus on the Sulina branch as that’s the one I visited.

For a full travel guide about Mila 23 which is in the heart of the Danube Delta check out this article: Travel Guide – Danube Delta on the Sulina Branch

5. Bucharest

Romania road trip itinerary 5th stop is Bucharest: 4 hours driving from Tulcea 2 nights stay

Places to stay in Bucharest

As Bucharest is the capital of Romania there are lots of options when it comes to accomodation in all price ranges. There’s a metro system and taking Uber is possible as well.

Usually when I stay in a rather large city I try to find something within walking distance from most interesting areas. In Bucharest I stayed in an apartment so I could do some laundry and have a proper table/desk to get some work done. I found an apartment in an interesting neighborhood and on top off that it had a beautiful view from the 13th floor over the Parliament building.

Panorama the Parliament Palace ( link to Booking.com ) Price was about 250 lei OR 50 EUR / night Click here to get the exact address

More info about Bucharest

My main reason to go to Bucharest was to visit some friends, do my laundry and catch up on some work so I didn’t do much exploring. I found a great article online that can help you to find some cool spots in the capital of Romania:

Guide to the best things to do in Bucharest, Capital of Romania

Romania road trip itinerary 6th stop is Brasov: 3 hours driving from Bucharest 2 nights stay

Places to stay in Brasov

Brasov is one of the larger cities in Romania and very popular amongst tourists because of the beautiful old town and Bran castle that isn’t too far away. Because of the touristy scene there is lots of accomodation available in all price categories. Also because I knew it would be quite touristy here I decided to only stay 2 nights. To properly explore this region you would probably need a few days more.

Similar to Bucharest I booked an apartment that was affordable and not too far away from the center. La Rossa, where I stayed, was about 10 minutes walking and very spacious. You could stay here with 4 people so by myself I had plenty of space! If you would like to see a room tour and some of my other adventures around Brasov and Bran Castle have a look at my video: Brasov – Tourist trap or Tourist Paradise?

• La Rossa ( link to Booking.com )
• Price was about 200 lei OR 40 EUR / night

Below some recommendations of what to do in and around Brasov.

1. Discovering the old town

One of the things I usually do in a city like Brasov is wandering around the city without really knowning where to go on the search for some cool spots. There was an abundance of bars and restaurants with lots of delicious food. I wandered around during golden hour which made for some great photos and videos. As it was a late summer night there were plenty of people out and about.

In all honesty I should’ve had at least one day more to explore Brasov properly. Especially the telecabina that leads up to the Hollywood inspired Brasov sign. The view from up there must be spectacular!

Some good tips for places to check out in Brasov from fellow Belgian Blogger wonderfulwanderings.com

2. Visiting Bran Castle

Bran castle or commonly known as Dracula’s castle in fact doesn’t have anything to do with Dracula, the fictional story written by Bram Stoker. Dracula in fact was a real person and was the ruler of Wallachia a historical region that bordered with Transylvania in Romania. Dracula’s real name was actually Vlad III Dracula or Vlad the Impaler. Historians agree that the real Dracula never set foot in Bran Castle. The Romanian government decided to market Bran Castle as Dracula’s castle just because it looked scary. Let me tell you, the marketing worked! A bit to my dissapointment because this castle really gets overrun by tourists. Before entering the castle there is a huge market where you can find a wide range of food and souvenirs. Despite it being a bit of a tourist trap I did enjoy the interior of the castle.

As this article mostly covers details about a Romania road trip I assume you’re traveling with the car. Bran Castle lies about 30 minutes driving from Brasov with the car. There are also tour companies based in Brasov that organize tours to the castle.

3. Try Bean soup in bread

Although I’m not a huge foodie I still wanted to try the bean soup served in bread, locally known as Ciorba de Fasole in Paine. It was the first time I saw a soup served in bread and as it looked pretty cool I had to try it. The first word that comes mind to desribe this soup is hearty. With a single serving of this soup you will be satisfied for the rest of the day, not only because of the bread but also because of the beans. Give it a try, it’s definitely worth it.

4. Hike in Bucegi National Park

Bucegi national park is located South of Brasov and can be reached through the East side via the small mountain town Busteni. There is a cable car that costs 140 RON or 28 EUR for a return ticket. To know the exact operation times of the Busteni Telecabina visit the official website teleferic.ro

With more than 15 peaks over 2000 meters and the unique sculptures crafted by nature, like Sfinxul and Babele, the Bucegi National Park is a very popular destination amongst tourists.

When I visited in September 2021 I was overwhelmed with the length of the queue to get in the cable car. I started waiting to buy tickets but soon some people approached me to sell me a ride in a van towards a parking that isn’t too far from where the cable car would take me and this for the same price. I decided to take the chance to win some time. Looking back I could have driven with my own car to that parking actually.

If you’re reading this article you’re most likely traveling with a car so I would recommend to drive up to that parking yourself, the road was quite good. Do keep in mind that you need to pay an entrance fee to the national park and this needs to be paid in advance at the tourism office in Busteni. If you drive there yourself you also aren’t limited to the time schedule of the cable car.

Once you reach the plain where the cable car arrives (20 minute walk from above mentioned the parking) you will see the incredible rock formations such as the Sfinxul. A rock carved out because of wind erosion and rain, it looks quite impressive actually!

My plan was to hike to the Varful Omu peak (2514 m) and then make a loop to arrive back at the cable car. As I started of quite late I had to return earlier than expected to be able to catch the last cable car back down. This is my tracked route on Strava , if you would continue upwards you would reach Omu peak.

Download the GPX file right here:  Bucegi-National-Park.gpx

I found this great article from Packing Up The Pieces that describes a multi-day trek in the Bucegi National Park from Sinaia to Bran.

7. Hike to Mt. Moldoveanu (2544 m)

Romania road trip itinerary 7th stop is Balea Lake: 2 hours and 30 minutes driving from Brasov 2 nights stay

Mount Moldoveanu (2544m) is the highest mountain of Romania and I decided to climb it during my road trip through Romania. It was one of the greatest challenges of my life but I would do it again immediately! If you’re up for a challenge I would highly recommend to climb this majestic mountain in the Făgăraș mountains of Romania!

To read the full article explaining the route to Moldoveanu starting from Balea Lac read this article: Hike to Moldoveanu, the highest mountain in Romania

Romania road trip itinerary 8th stop is Sibiu: 2 hours driving from Balea Lake 3 nights stay

Places to stay in Sibiu

When I look back on my Romania road trip Sibiu was my favorite city, I’m still not sure why but I think it was not only about the nice vibe around the city and the pretty colorful houses. Most likely it had something to do with the mood I was in as well. I had just climbed the highest mountain in Romania which released quite some endorphines in my body!

Similar to Brasov Sibiu is very touristy so lots of accomodation available in all price ranges.

Because I was spending my last nights in Romania I decided to treat myself to something a bit different. I’ve always been a huge fan of tiny houses, especially when these tiny cabins are surrounded by nature. On Instagram I had run in to some posts of @porumbacutreehouses and this was exactly what I needed for a few nights of ultimate relaxation.

Porumbacu Treehouses ( link to their website ) Price was about 130 EUR / night Click here to get the exact address

I do want to mention that I got 2 nights for free in return for some photos and a feature on my Youtube video but in all honesty I was ready to pay for the accomodation as it was a concept I really liked!

How expensive is Romania?

In total spread over 22 days I have spent about 1350 EUR and this is gasoline/rental car not included. That’s an average of about 60 EUR / day. This only covers the costs in Romania so not including costs made in other countries. Also consider that most hotel/guesthouse prices were for me alone. So if you’re going with multiple people the price might be a bit lower. I didn’t go to luxury resorts but not to the cheapest hotels either.

In total for accomodation I spent 650 EUR. Food and drinks were approximately 400 EUR. The rest of the budget went to entrances to activities, souvenirs, etc.

A comfy, non luxurious hotel costs on an average 20 – 50 EUR a night. A decent meal with drinks ranges from 5 – 20 EUR.

I hope this blog post helps you to plan your own trip to Romania. If you have more questions or suggestions send me a DM on my socials @timtense or an email to [email protected]

Enjoy your travels!

Another road trip guide that you might be interested in: Epic Albania Road Trip Guide – Car insurance? Budget? Is it SAFE?

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The Ultimate Romania Road Trip – Everything You Need to Know!

Romania, a country that is filled with the most stunning nature, idyllic cities and fairytale like castles, and what better way to explore it then by going on a road trip? A road trip through Romania will not just take you from destination to destination, it will allow you to enjoy the full journey. Awe at the beautiful landscapes, visit castles that are hard to reach by public transport and of course, drive one of the most beautiful highways in the world. But going on a road trip in a foreign country can be quite daunting from time to time, especially when it comes to renting a car, driving in a foreign country and deciding where to go. So, to make it a bit easier for you we have created the ultimate Romania road trip guide that will help you plan the perfect road trip. From how much it costs to rent a car in Romania, to tips on driving in Romania and so much more, this guide has it all. So without further ado, keep on reading to find out everything you need to know on how to plan the perfect Romania road trip…

Please note: This post contains affiliate links. This means that purchasing a product or service via these links may earn us a small commission (at no extra cost to you of course).

Renting a Car in Romania

One of the most important things for a road trip is renting a car. However, renting a car in a foreign country can differ slightly from the process of renting a car in your home country. So, to make it a bit easier for you we have written down all the essential information that you need to know for renting a car in Romania, so that once you get to the rental company you can enjoy your travels in Romania worry free.

Requirements for Renting a Car in Romania

Renting a car is quite easy, as long as you meet the requirements of the rental company of course. And while the rental requirements often differ slightly from company to company and are definitely not limited to the requirements below, we found these general requirements at many of the car rental companies in Romania:

• You must be 21 years or older. If you are between 21 and 25 years old you can often expect to pay a young driver charge  on top of the rental fee.
• Your drivers license needs to be held for at least 12 months and it must be currently valid . We saw this requirement stated in the terms of almost every rental company in Romania.
• An international drivers license is required for non-EU citizens at all international rental companies. If you are planning on renting a car with a company like Avis, Hertz or Sixt you will need to have an international drivers license if your drivers license was issued in a non-EU country.
• Not all local rental companies hold this requirement though. If you forgot to bring your international drivers license you will still find smaller local companies willing to rent you a car, it might just be a bit harder and require a bit more research. This is what we ended up doing as Rob’s international drivers license had expired, which took us a lot of extra time and research so be sure your documents are up to date.
• You will need an international drivers license if your drivers license is in a non-roman alphabet such as Greek, Farsi, Arabic, Japanese and so on. This rule applies at both international and local companies.
• You will need a credit card in the driver’s name.  Prepaid credit cards and debit cards are almost never accepted at car rental companies in Romania.
• You must have a valid ID such as a passport. Copies are not accepted, so be sure to have your documents ready.
• Want an additional driver? Expect to pay more but also to have the same documents ready for the additional driver. Valid drivers license, valid ID and a valid international drivers license if applicable, are all needed if you are planning on having an additional driver during your road trip.

If you have rented a car before then these requirements are probably fairly straightforward for you as these same rules apply almost everywhere nowadays. However, you will see that many car rental companies will still have additional rules and requirements. So while this provides a base of documents to get ready don’t forget to check the requirements of the car rental company you are planning to use before you are leaving your home country to avoid any issues upon arrival in Romania.

Cost of Renting a Car in Romania

So now that you have checked that you meet all the general requirements for renting a car in Romania you might be wondering how much this is going to cost you. In general smaller cars are widely available at car rental companies which is the most budget friendly option. We rented a 2019 Opel Corsa in September 2019 at a local car rental company and paid €30 per day. The €30 per day included the following:

• Unlimited mileage.
• 24/7 Road assistance.
• Theft and accident insurance (TP and CDW) with a deductible of €300.
• Delivery and pickup of the vehicle to our apartment in the city centre of Bucharest.

If you are planning on doing a road trip in Romania be sure to check the cost of any additional services your car rental company might charge you. Not only will you be able to factor it into your travel budget, but you will also avoid unnecessary cost. Expect to pay extra for the following:

• Pickup outside of the regular opening hours of the company, which sometimes even includes Sundays.
• GPS, child seats and snow chains.
• Additional driver.
• Roadside Assistance, as this is not always included in the price.
• Reducing your deductible. Deductibles can be as high as €1200 (if not more) in Romania, however many car rental companies offer the option to pay an extra daily fee so you will have a lower or even a €0 deductible instead.

You will find many car rental comparison websites online where cars are priced as low as €5 a day, some even stating that it includes insurance for this price. However, if it seems to good to be true, it really is. The insurance the website offers is often not valid in Romania. This means that upon arrival you are often expected to pay another €20, if not more, a day to include the insurance that is required by Romanian law.

Car Rental Tips

Last, but definitely not least we wanted to share some tips for renting a car in Romania. If you have rented cars abroad before then this might seem obvious to you, but in case you have never rented a car abroad then these tips might help to make sure you don’t get overcharged for your rental:

• Take photos of the car.  Before leaving the rental company and signing the rental company inspect the car thoroughly, both inside and out. Look for scratches on the car, check the tires and the rims, and be sure to check the windscreen of the car for any chips or scratches as well. Any damages, even if they are very small, should be marked on the rental agreement as rental companies check the car a lot more thorough when you return the car.
• Get a copy of the rental agreement and the receipt.   Before leaving make sure you get a signed copy of the rental agreement that includes the points mentioned above, don’t lose this document, you might need it again later.
• Take a photo of the mileage and fuel gauge before leaving. Car rental companies often require you to return the tank full, however, if it was given to you only with half a tank then this isn’t a fair deal. Take a photo of your dashboard before leaving the rental company so you won’t be charged extra later.
• Return the car washed and with a full tank , or well with how much gas in it as the car was given to you. This is almost always required, and if you do not return the car washed and fuelled up you can expect to receive a bill that is three times as high as you would have paid for doing these services yourself.
• Don’t be late . This might be a given but either picking up the car late, or return it late can cause you not either trouble but it might also cost you a whole day extra if your car is returned late.
• When returning the car make sure you get another signed (end of) rental agreement. Upon returning the car your car will be checked again. Be sure to ask for an end of rental agreement where on a document will be stated exactly which damages occurred (or not occurred) during your rental period. This will protect you from suddenly having money charged to your credit card later for damages that were not made by you. If any damages occurred during the rental period take photos of the damages as well, just to be on the safe side for later.

Those are some of our tips that we stick to every single time when renting a car abroad, not just in Romania. Do you have any other tips or tricks that you stick to when renting a car? Tell us in the comment section down below!

Road Quality and Safety in Romania

So now that you know everything about renting a car, you might be wondering what it is like to actually drive in Romania. Driving in a foreign country can differ largely from driving in your home country, we experienced this not only in Romania, but also in Vietnam, Indonesia and New Zealand. To help you prepare for what it is like driving in Romania, so you can enjoy your travels worry free, we have shared all our tips, tricks and observations below on what road quality and safety in Romania is like!

Road Quality in Romania

We had read absolute horror stories about the road quality in Romania: potholes, dirt roads, not being able to drive over 60 km/h… But honestly, we were pleasantly surprised about the road quality in Romania. While you cannot expect roads like the German Autobahn in Romania, highways in general were of decent quality.  The highways often allowed us to easily drive over 100 km/h at many sections where the highways were in excellent condition. You can find a map of the road quality in Romania here as well to get a better idea of what road quality on your planned itinerary will be like.

Besides the beautiful highways that take you along mountains and endless fields of green there were also many roads that were filled with massive potholes, especially when leaving the main roads between and within the cities, so you will still have to be extremely careful when driving in Romania. However, we only found dirt roads in smaller villages or when we stayed further outside of the city closer to the mountains. One thing that was an issue though was that on many county roads there was a lack of road marking and speed signs.

Driving in Romania

Now that you now how to rent a car in Romania and what you can expect of the roads in Romania you might be wondering what driving in Romania is like. Driving abroad can be a complete different experience from driving in your home country: different rules and regulations, but also different driving styles and norms. To give you a better idea of what driving in Romania is like check out some of the most important rules, regulations and extra tips on what to expect when driving in Romania below:

• In Romania they drive on the right side of the road.
• Don’t drink and drive, Romania has a zero tolerance policy.
• You will have to wear your seatbelt at all times.
• The driving style in Romania can be quite aggressive, especially on the highways. You will find many people trying to overtake you and not sticking to the speed limit. We have seen people easily driving over 150 km/h on the highways, so be careful when driving in Romania.
• You will often find traffic police in villages but also on highways doing speed checks, so be sure to stick to the speed limits.
• The emergency number in Romania is 112.
• You are not allowed to use your car horn between 10pm and 6am in Romania, instead you will have to use your lights instead. In some cities and towns (including Bucharest) use of horns are forbidden at all times.
• Expect to find many congestions on national and county roads, so schedule some extra time in your itinerary.

If you are looking for more info and tips on driving in Romania check out this website here that we found during our road trip research. This is one of the few resources on the rules and regulations of driving in Romania that was available in English, so while not an official website of Romania it might give you an idea of what rules and regulations you can expect.

Parking in Romania – While parking spots are not hard to find in Romania, expect to pay almost everywhere for parking, especially near city centres and near popular sights and castles. Parking is often less then 1$ an hour, however, it does often have to be paid in cash so be sure to keep some small cash at hand.

Sharing the Road & Wildlife in Romania

Another slight point of road safety in Romania we wanted discuss was sharing the road, and we don’t just mean sharing the road with other drivers. One of the things that surprised us the most was the amount of people we saw walking on highways and national roads, roads where cars drive over 100 km/h from time to time. People were not just simply walking on the side of the road but we sometimes even saw people crossing highways. Besides this also keep your eye out for horse drawn carriages, which are quite common in Romania, people on bicycles and for sheep herders with life stock. Basically we just wanted to tell you to stay alert and keep your eyes open when driving in Romania to avoid any accidents.

Besides people be careful of wildlife in Romania crossing the road unexpectedly as well. There have been many blogs that we read that people came across brown bears on the road, and while we didn’t see any brown bears we did see many deer in Romania along the side of the roads. So keep your eyes open, not only to see this beautiful wild life, but also to stay safe on the road while driving.

Planning a Road Trip Through Romania

Now that you know everything about renting a car and are fully prepared to drive in Romania you might still have a couple of questions left when it comes down to the actual planning of your road trip through Romania. Don’t worry, we got you covered. Keep on reading to find some practical information such as when to go on your road trip, how much will it cost, and how many days should I rent my car for?

Best time to go on a Road Trip in Romania

Summer (June to mid September) – High season is one of the seasons we try to avoid everywhere we travel. However, sometimes it doesn’t always work out. We traveled Romania during the high season and can honestly admit that we could not recommend this if you have the option of going at a different time. Expect warm weather (we had highs of 38 degrees), busy cities and long waiting lines at castles. Besides this expect higher prices at accommodation and sights, not the best option for budget travellers.

Spring & Fall (April/May & Mid-September/October) – Mid September the children go back to school, meaning that the long lines will disappear and that during week days you will find that cities are emptier and the long waiting lines for sights disappear. On top of that during fall you will be greeted with the most beautiful fall foliage and in spring with the trees blossoming, if we would do another road trip then these months would be our preferred choice.

Winter (November to March) – Winter in Romania sounds like a fairytale, especially with some of the most beautiful colourful cities covered in a layer of snow. However, driving in the snow can be quite difficult, especially when going through the mountains. As winter is low season many sights have very limited opening hours so be sure to take that into consideration.

How many days do you need for a Romania Road Trip?

We rented our car for a total of 9 days, which was plenty to see all the main sights and have some break days (or for us work days) in between. After driving our route we established that for people that don’t work on the road, 7 days would have been more then enough for that route, but it will include sightseeing every single day, and driving every single day. If you like to take it a bit slower, plan for 10 days, and if you have limited time we would say that 5 days, although short, is enough to see the major highlights of Transylvania. Be sure to plan in some extra time before and after your trip to explore Bucharest as well.

Money & Budget for a Romania Road Trip

Going on a road trip in Romania is a lot more affordable then many destinations in Western Europe, however, costs add up quickly. From fuel, parking, groceries, accommodation to sights, it all costs money. To give you a bit of a better idea of how much we spent during our 9 day road trip in Romania check out the table below:

As you can see the largest part of our budget went to car, food & drinks, and accommodation. However, as we are traveling on a budget we still tried to keep our costs as low as possible, so your cost might end up a lot higher (or a lot lower) then our given expenses. To keep our costs low we stayed at budget Airbnbs and pensions that had a kitchen so we could cook our own food. Moreover, we were selective of the sights and castles we wanted to see to keep our budget slightly down as well. So if you are planning on seeing all the castles, visit museums and ride the cable cars then be sure to plan for a higher budget for activities and sights.

Supermarkets in Romania –  If you are on a budget then you might want to stick to cooking your own food as eating out can add costs up quickly. Near the bigger cities you will find plenty of supermarkets that have a large variety of breads (including pizza snacks, croissants), fruits and veggies, meats, dairy and so much more. If you are not sure where to look use Google Maps to see if any Carrefour, Kaufland, Lidl or Mega Image is in your vicinity, these are the four most common supermarkets you will find near and in the cities.

Romania Road Trip Route & Map

Now that we have discussed all the logistics, let’s talk about the actual route and itinerary for your road trip! Romania is a large country, and there is so much to see: from the Danube Delta to black sea, there is something for everyone’s liking here. We opted to go for the more classic road trip: the castles and fairytale-like cities of Transylvania. Our route took us through the most gorgeous fields of green, mountains, medieval castles, beautiful cities and the most beautiful highway we had ever seen, a combination that makes this one of the most beautiful road trips in the Balkans .

Our least favourite part of highway must have been on our way to Hunedoara, where the views of lush mountains slowly started to disappear and were replaced with empty fields and factories, but in the end the destination was 100% worth it, but more on that below. If you are looking for ideas for your own route or itinerary, check out our map below with the exact road we took during our Romania road trip, or keep on scrolling to read more about our favourite destinations in Romania!

Best Places to Visit in Romania

A visit to Transylvania would not be complete without visiting the beautiful city of Brasov. Streets filled with an endless amount of colourful houses, the most stunning viewpoints, and close to one of the most popular sights of Romania: Bran Castle , a.k.a. Dracula’s Castle. Brasov must be one of our favourite destinations in Romania, and we honestly wished we would have stayed longer to explore more of what this beautiful city has to offer. We personally recommend spending 2 days in and around Brasov to see some of the nearby highlights as well, not sure what to do? Read our full 2 day Brasov itinerary here .

Visiting Sighisoara felt almost like we just stepped into a fairytale filled with the most bright and colourful houses. Narrow cobblestoned streets that we could have wandered for hours as you would discover something new everything you walk through them. We wrote about all our favourite things to do in Sighisoara here , from the most beautiful view over the city to learning more about Sighisoara’s history, you can easily visit all the sights within an afternoon as the city itself is rather small. However, before you head to your next destination consider stopping by one of the many lovely smaller cities in the vicinity, such as Biertan, which is home to an absolute massive fortified church.

Corvin Castle

While Hunedoara itself is a city that doesn’t have much to offer, there is one sight in particular that made the drive here all worth it: Corvin Castle. This castle was the sole reason I was inspired to do a road trip through Romania, and it honestly was even more impressive in real life. Corvin Castle made me feel like I had stepped right into a Harry Potter movie where I had received my invitation letter to Hogwarts! Visiting Corvin Castle was one of the highlights of our Romania road trip, and in our opinion an absolute must see when visiting Romania. Intrigued? You can read all our tips and tricks on visiting Corvin Castle here !

Many people fly into the city of Bucharest and have the tendency of just renting a car and hitting the road, which is a shame as Bucharest itself is a city worth exploring! We loved our time in Bucharest can cannot wait to go back in the future to see what else this city has to offer. Wander around one of the newest old towns you will find in Europe (it is only a couple of years old), visit the Palace of the Parliament which is the heaviest building in the world, or simply relax in the beautiful parks of Bucharest. We recommend booking an extra two to three days before or after your road trip to explore this beautiful city before heading home, or to your next destination.

The last city in Romania that deserves a spot on your road trip itinerary is the city of Sibiu. While we did not find Sibiu as beautiful or exciting as Sighisoara and Brasov we would still highly recommend seeing it if you have the time in your schedule. Wander around Sibiu’s beautiful market square, walk through the idyllic little cobblestoned streets or find the most beautiful viewpoint over the city of one of the towers. We Would personally recommend spending one day in Sibiu, before heading to the last destination of this road trip…

Transfăgărășan Highway

Last, but definitely not least, of the best places to visit Romania on your road trip is the Transfăgărășan Highway, also known as one of the most beautiful highways in the world. This beautiful road swirls through the Carpathian mountains and was built in the 1970’s as a strategic route, connecting Transylvania with Wallachia. It took over four years to construct this road filled with hairpin turns that slowly take you up to the highest point of the highway: Balea Lake from where you can admire the beautiful view over the highway. Driving the Transfăgărășan Highway through beautiful scenery, along creeks, waterfalls and sheep herders was the absolute highlight of our trip. However, the road is only open for several months out of the year (more info on that here ), so be sure to check if you can drive it before planning your Romania road trip!

And there you have it, everything you need to know to plan the perfect Romania road trip! While we only had enough time to go on a 9-day road trip, we absolutely fell in love with the cities and nature of Romania, and we undoubtedly will be back in the future to see what else Romania has to offer. Do you have any questions? Or any recommendations for us and our readers? Be sure to tell us in the comment section down below!

 Not going home yet after your road trip? Be sure to check out some of our other posts on nearby destinations!

• The Train from Chisinau to Bucharest: Everything You Need to Know
• 13 Unique Things to do in Chisinau
• 10 Unique Things to do in Tiraspol, Transnistria

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22 Comments

Romania is so high on my list and this just makes me want to go even more. Great tips on the car rental. Having a car makes it so much easier to get around and see more of the country than just one city

Hi Emma! After having done our road trip I honestly didn’t want to use any public transport any more. Having a car just makes it so much easier to stop on the side of the road and admire the beautiful views, plus, no need to carry your luggage around. I hope you get to visit Romania some day soon!

Amazing post! Romania is one of my favourite countries in Europe, and your post makes me miss it so much! Thank you for all the practical tips. I travelled the country by train when I visited in Romania, but I would love to go back and do a road trip.

Thank you so much Erica! Romania is such a beautiful country, the nature, the beautiful cities, I would go back in a heartbeat!

Your photos are so amazing! Can’t believe I’m living in Hungary but still haven’t made it to Romania.. Gotta change that soon! So I saved your post for later, thank you for sharing it! 🙂

Thank you so much! Oh I really hope you get to visit it some day soon, it is only a short ride away from Hungary!

I did it last year (solo) and wrote about it too but I didn’t drive. So this is totally useful if one wants to DIY, which is the recommended way really. As a solo tourist, it’s a bit of a begging cotravelers to join, or pile on a group trip, which rarely run off season. I just about managed.😏 Stunning pictures!!

Thank you so much! And that is so true, as a solo traveller it can definitely a bit expensive if you have to rent a car by yourself! Glad you liked the pictures and the post!

This was SO helpful! Romania is on the top of my list these days, but I never considered a road trip until now. It looks and sounds incredible! And your photos look great, what camera + lens are you using for these photos?

Thank you so much Tina! I just love doing road trips, they are such a good way of exploring a country, I just feel like you get to see a lot more. I use a Canon 5D Mark 3 with a Canon 16-35mm (F4) Lens!

Oh this is making me want to travel to Romania again! Awesome photos and very helpful information 🙂

Thank you so much! It is such a beautiful country, I really hope to go back in the near future and explore it more!

I am drooling over that highway! Look so incredibly stunning and I want to fly my drone there hehe

Isn’t it just stunning, it was such an incredible sight to see in real life!

I’m actually from Bucharest and had no idea about not being aloud to use your car horn. I just know that I’ve taken my license at 19 and have started actually driving 9 years later because I was terrified about the traffic and crazy people driving on our roads. Thus, good job for adventuring on this road trip. I think this is one of the most beautiful areas in Romania.

Thanks Ingrid! And I can imagine, the traffic could sure be a bit crazy within the city of Bucharest!

Thank you for this detailed and fantastic article! I always put Eastern Europe for last, but I’ve heard fantastic things about Romania, especially the castles and nature. So, you managed to complete your road trip marked on a map within 9 days total?

Thanks Lena! And I know what you mean, I grew up in the Netherlands and have spent the last 3 years exploring mainly outside my own continent. This summer I finally decided to spent 4 months in Europe and it just reminded me of how much beauty can be found so close to home. We did it in 9 days total with a bit of work in between, and a lot of driving, but I do think it is doable in 7 days if you don’t mind being on the road a lot!

Romania is on my bucket list and your post is sooooo helpful – it is not always easy to find such detailed and helpful information on blogs and your post is definitely saved for when finally I visit Romania. Thanks so much!

Thank you so much Paulu! I hope you get to visit Romania some day soon!

Your photos are absolutely beautiful! You totally sold me on doing a Romania road trip. 🙂

Thank you so much Taylor! It was a trip of a lifetime!

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Our Passion For Travel

An amazing one week romania road trip itinerary.

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When you think of Transylvania, what comes to mind? Before our Romania road trip, I would have said two things: Dracula and castles.

After spending a week road tripping through the Transylvanian countryside, I can now add a lot more to this list:

Gently rolling green hills and snow capped mountains that remind me of Switzerland.

Picture perfect old saxon villages.

Colourful streetscapes.

Hearty food.

And of course, lots of Dracula references and gorgeous castles.

One week was the perfect amount of time for a Romania road trip through the Transylvanian region. A week allowed us to take in most of the major sites without feeling too rushed.

Our Passion For Travel contains affiliate links which may provide a commission. Our reviews and commentary remain independent and commission comes at no cost to you. Income derived help us create more content to help travellers like you make the most of your travel experiences. Read more here .

Where to start your Romania road trip

There are many options to choose where you start a road trip through Romania. We chose to start and end in the capital of Transylvania, Cluj Napoca. Being a discount airline hub, there are often great flight deals via Wizz Air or Ryanair. We considered ending in Bucharest, so we could also visit the Romanian capital. However, there was a hefty one-way rental car fee, and the flights out of Bucharest to London were considerably more expensive too. We decided to save the €250 this would have added. We concentrated our travels on a loop of Transylvania which was the perfect combination of value and sights.

Romanian car hire

Car hire in Romania ended up being simple and straightforward. We always use Skyscanner Car Rentals as our booking site of choice. They have a large number of operators and clear and transparent pricing (no one likes a nasty one-way fee after the fact!).

Romania has local operators as well as a limited number of international companies. We’d read prior to booking that we should consider an international company, however prices with these were significantly higher (up to 3x higher in fact!). We booked with Klass Wagen, which was very highly rated. We found their service to be friendly and efficient. Their office is about a 2 minute drive from the airport, and they offer a convenient pick up and drop off service. We booked full insurance for added peace of mind. When you see how some Romanians drive, you’ll want full insurance too. That’s not a point to scare you, but they do make any Romania road trip a constantly exciting activity.

Our Romania road trip itinerary

When planning our road trips, we like to avoid packing up our bags every morning and moving to a new hotel. Here’s how we split up the week long trip:

2 nights in Cluj Napoca (although our flight landed very late on the first night): Hotel Platinia

1 night in Sibiu: Republique hotel

3 nights in Brasov: Belfort Hotel

1 night in Sighisoara (we had a late flight out of Cluj Napoca the next day): Hotel Bulevard

Here’s a breakdown with our recommendations on top things to do and where to stay for a fantastic road trip through Romania.

Day 1-2: Cluj Napoca

Cluj Napoca (or Cluj for short) is the capital of the Transylvania. It will be the European Capital of Culture for 2021. Cluj is a university town, having the highest student population in all of Romania. For this reason, there is a young, hip vibe. Cafes, bars and trendy restaurants abound, and all at very reasonable prices.

The old town of Cluj is the place to base your trip. It’s a fairly small old town by European standards, with all the of the key sights within about a 30 minute walk. Start at Union Square (Piata Unirii), which is the largest and main square of the city. Within the square lies St Michaels Church, which dominates the skyline with its gothic architecture. From there, you can visit the impressive Opera House, and in another direction, the aptly named “small square”. It’s a square. And it’s small.

Regular readers of our blog will know that we love taking free walking tours in new cities we visit. Cluj Napoca is a perfect place for a free walking tour. You’ll learn all about the history of the city and Transylvania in general. We recommend the free tour by Cluj Guided Tours which departed at 6pm from Union Square (check their Facebook page for updated times).

When it comes to eating, you won’t be starved of options (pun intended!). We had a lovely dinner at Rhedey Café , which is located right on Union Square. It served a wide range of traditional and western dishes. They also don’t skimp on the portions.

Our walking guide also recommended Varzarie . It’s apparently the best place for traditional, home-style Romanian cooking. This restaurant is a nostalgic favourite. Dating back to the communist era, the food is much the same as it was then. It’s located on the main road leading down to the Opera House from Union Square.

Where to stay in Cluj Napoca

There’s a wide range of accommodation options in Cluj to suit all budgets. We stayed at Hotel Platinia, which is a fairly new 5 star hotel. We had a gigantic suite, filled with plush furnishings that were super comfortable. This made it hard to leave the hotel when it was pouring rain outside!

Our flight arrived in very late, which is why we opted for a hotel with a 24 hour front desk. Also, this hotel was only slightly more expensive than other 3 and 4 star hotels in Cluj. It was a little further to the Old Town than other hotels, but it was still an easy 15 minute flat walk.

BOOK NOW: Hotel Platinia, Cluj Napoca || From €90

Day 3: Turda, overnight in Sibiu

Now is the time you really hit the road and start exploring the Transylvanian countryside. Make your first stop the Turda Mines, located about 30 minutes from Cluj Napoca.

Turda Mines

I don’t like to use clichés often, but the Turda Salt Mine really does need to be seen to be believed.

Turda Salt Mine is an underground attraction, which Business Insider boast as one of the most unbelievable travel destinations you didn’t know existed . There are 2 sides to exploring the mine. Firstly, you can learn all about the history of the mine. Secondly, there’s an underground amusement park you can enjoy too.

There are some areas with information detailing the purposes of the salt mine, which dates back a few hundred years. The oldest chamber in the mine is the Teresa mine which dates back to 1690. After mining ceased, an underground lake formed. You can now walk out onto a salt island and enjoy a boat ride. All this occurring of course some 100 metres+ underground!

A level up from the lake is the Rudolph Mine, which is the perfect place to hang out if you’re travelling with kids (or are a big kid yourself). This area offers up table tennis, mini golf and even a Ferris Wheel. Yes, an underground Ferris Wheel! It is possibly one of the most eclectic tourist attractions you’ll find anywhere in the world.

Tickets at entry: Turda Salt Mine || 1-2 hours || 40 lei

Once you’ve finished at the Turda Mines, we’d recommend a quick lunch at the restaurant opposite, Sarea-n Bucate . This place serves up authentic Romanian food. There is no such thing as a ‘light lunch’ here. Our best advice would be to avoid over-ordering!

From the Turda Salt Mine, make your way to Sibiu. It should take ~2.5 hours.

Sibiu is a gorgeous old Saxon village that dates back to the 12 th century. It was our favourite stop on our Romania road trip. We only added this to our itinerary at the last minute, and I am so glad we did.

There’s so much to love about Sibiu, but if there is one thing that really stood out, were the homes with eyes. Yes, that’s right, so many homes in the old town have eyes! It sounds like an M Night Shyamalan movie! In reality they are just windows in the attics of the homes, but they do look very unique.

Aim to arrive early enough in the day to spend a few hours exploring. The old town is quite compact but there are many things to see. The town is split into the upper and lower town, and you really do need to explore both. You’ll find large and small squares surrounded by coloured homes. There are medieval walls, old towers and stunning cathedrals to view both inside and out.

For a more in depth look at what you can do in this beautiful town, check out our dedicated one day in Sibiu article .

Where to stay in Sibiu

In Sibiu we stayed at the Republique hotel, and it was perfect. Located an easy 10 minute flat work to the old town. They offer comfortable rooms at a really affordable price. In fact, for the quality of the hotel, we are convinced this might be the best value hotel we’ve stayed in during our year long travels. There was ample free parking right out of the front of the hotel. The staff were all so friendly and helpful, and a free breakfast topped off an enjoyable stay.

BOOK NOW: Republique Hotel, Sibiu || From €48

Day 4: Drive to Brasov, overnight in Brasov

Today I recommend waking up early to spend your morning exploring more of Sibiu. How early you leave Sibiu today depends on one thing: whether you drive the Transfagarasan or not.

The Transfagarasan Road

The Transfagarasan Road has been touted as one of the best roads in the world. Don’t take our word for it, the Top Gear guys made an episode about this road . It runs through the mountains in Transylvania, offering sensational views and sharp hairpin turns. However, due to the elevation of the road and icy conditions, it’s only open a few months of the year. We visited in May and the road was still closed for the winter season, so unfortunately it didn’t make our Romania road trip itinerary. However, from photos we’ve seen online, it looks absolutely incredible. if you’re travelling to Romania in the summer, consider adding this to your itinerary.

If like us, you can’t drive the Transfagarasan, stay in Sibiu until after lunch time. Grab a few covrigi for the road. For the uninitiated, covrigi are like a German pretzel with sesame seeds. Every second shop in Sibiu is a bakery (I may be slightly exaggerating), so there are plenty of places to pick one (or three) up for your travels.

Sibiu to Brasov

The drive from Sibiu to Brasov is a simple yet breathtaking drive through the Transylvanian countryside. The drive is packed with those rolling green hills and snow capped mountains I mentioned earlier. At times it feels like you’re in Switzerland, Austria or Germany such is the scenic landscape.

It should take just over 2 hours direct, but I recommend a quick stop off at the Castel de Lut, Valea Zanelor. By taking a slight detour off the E68, you’ll come across this old style castle where the walls are made out of clay and straw. It reminded us of the gingerbread house from Hansel and Gretel. There’s a small entry fee and you can enjoy a drink by the river.

Tickets at entry: Castel de Lut, Valea Zanelor || 30 minutes || 5 lei

Overnight in Brasov

Driving into Brasov you’ll notice a few things. Firstly, you’re back in a big city. Secondly, you know you’re in Brasov because you’ll see the gigantic Hollywoodesque sign sitting up in the mountain behind the city. You can’t miss it.

Brasov is another delightful Romanian city that is extremely popular on the tourist trail. It’s a great base for exploring the nearby castles and countryside, and for this reason we recommend basing yourself here for a few nights.

Where to stay in Brasov

We stayed at the Belfort Hotel which was a 10 minute walk to the main attractions in town. It came with free parking and offered an extensive free breakfast. Rooms are large and the staff ever helpful.

BOOK NOW: Belfort Hotel, Brasov || From €70

Day 5: A day of castles

Today I recommend another early start, to explore the most beautiful castles in the Romania.

Peles Castle

Peles Castle is located in the Carpathian Mountains, about a one hour drive from Brasov. Whilst lying just outside the border of Transylvania, you’re close enough to make it a must visit.

Built between 1873 and 1914, Peles Castle is a neo-Renaissance castle, and reminded us so much of the popular castles you’ll see in Germany. It was a royal castle, commissioned by King Carol I of Romania.

The beauty of the outside is matched by the stunning interiors. There are rooms upon rooms that are decorated in so many different styles. Ornate furnishings, stained glass windows and impressive halls dominated the scenery.

The entry fee is for the downstairs rooms, and in my view, worth paying. However, there is an additional 35 lei charge for photography, which is strictly enforced. We opted out of the photography charge and just enjoyed the experience.

Tickets at entry: Peles Castle || 1-2 hours || From 30 lei

Bran Castle

Head back towards Brasov, stopping off at Bran Castle.

Bran Castle is often called “Dracula’s Castle”. It’s a romanticised notion which draws plenty of tourists, us included, to this picturesque spot in the countryside. However, does this castle have anything to do with Bram Stoker’s legendary novel? Likely not.

Regardless of the connection with Dracula, the castle is still an interesting historical site. It was built between 1377 and 1382. Being a medieval castle, it’s filled with narrow staircases and fairly plain rooms. If you’re looking for another decorated castle, you’ll be disappointed. Our favourite spot was the inner courtyard, where you’ll get a great view of the covered walkways and the striking orange roof.

Be sure to spend some time wandering around the grounds for great views of the castle too.

Skip the line and book now: Bran Castle || 1 hour || €22

Rasnov Fortress

Heading back towards Brasov, you should spot Rasnov Fortress. It sits impressively upon a hill with its own Hollywood style sign. What is it with Transylvania and the Hollywood signs? This seems to be a popular way of marking a place in Romania!

For 5 lei per person, a tractor will take you up to the top of the hill where the fortress sits. The castle itself has seen better days. And on that basis is not in the same league as Peles or even Bran Castle. But it does have views that neither of those two can match. Extensive views out over the valley below as well as out to the snow-capped Carpathian mountains.

Before you leave Rasnov, take some time to walk the main streets with the colourful homes.

Tickets at entry: Rasnov Castle || 1 hour || 12 lei plus 5 lei per person for a return tractor trip to and from the car park

Arrive back in Brasov in time for dinner. After a big day, we recommend a hearty traditional Romanian meal. Restaurant Sergiana was recommended to us by one of our helpful front desk staff. “I go here when I want to eat a meal like my Mum makes” . If that’s not a testament to authentic Romanian cuisine, I don’t know what is!

There’s no shortage of options on the menu, but if you don’t like meat, you may struggle and have to stick to a side salad. The Romanians love their meat and just about every part of the animal, so there is a good variety.

I enjoyed the Transylvanian stew. Jeff had the traditional sarmale, which is minced meat wrapped in cabbage. We’d highly recommend both.

Note: The castles are not open every day . Peles Castle is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays (in peak times, the downstairs rooms may be open on Tuesdays). Bran Castle is not open on Monday mornings. Double check the official websites for opening times to ensure you don’t miss out.

Day 6: Explore Brasov

Brasov is an impressive medieval town and is worth some more time to explore. You can start the day by taking the cable car up the top of the Tampa mountain, to get a view of Brasov down below.

Back down in the city, walk along the Tampa Promenade for views of the fortified medieval complex.

Visit the Black Church, which is the largest medieval church in south Eastern Europe. A great fire swept through Braşov in 1689, which ultimately burnt the church too. The blackening of the church walls it is said, is where the name the Black church comes from. The oldest relic inside the church is the baptismal font from 1472.

Tickets at entry: Black Church || 20 minutes || 10 lei || Photography not permitted

Spend some time in the large Council Square. It was our favourite place to people-watch. Don’t leave without grabbing a crepe nearby too. It seems they are almost more popular here than anywhere else in Europe!

Grab some dinner at one of the many restaurants in the Old Town. We ate at Festival 39 , which offers up a mix of decent traditional and western food. The interior of Festival 39 was the most impressive part of our visit. Vintage decorations and low lighting transport you to the 1930s.

Day 7: Sighisoara

Say farewell to Brasov today and make you way to the beautiful little town of Sighisoara. Also, consider a detour to visit a small saxon village, Viscri.

Viscri is a super small Saxon village which is now known for three main things:

It’s a UNESCO heritage protected village.

There’s an impressive fortified church.

Prince Charles owns a house in Viscri.

I’ll make a guess and assume it’s the third point that gets most visitors to this town. If I’m honest, it’s what piqued my interest in stopping by here.

So, is the detour worth it? Well, the town is super small – pretty much all the main sights are down two roads, including Prince Charles’ house. The church is very unique and we loved to see & experience a rural village. However, it takes about 2 hours out of your schedule, with the detour and time for sightseeing. I’d only visit here if you leave early from Brasov.

If you do make it here, it’s prohibited to drive up the main street. You’ll spot a large sign directing you to a parking lot on the edge of town. There’s a walking path which will (hopefully) lead you to the main street. When we visited, the path was still in construction phase. We walked about 5 minutes to end up in a local’s backyard. There were chickens everywhere and we had to find our own way out through their shed!

The drawcard for Sighisoara is the beautiful UNESCO protected old town. Standing impressively up on a hill, it’s claimed to be the oldest inhabited citadel in Europe. It’s certainly one of the most beautiful we’ve ever seen.

Take a few hours to walk within the old medieval walls. Stroll down the small cobbled stone streets with the colourful homes dotted along the sides. Take in the views of the numerous different watchtowers.

The Clock Tower with its tiled roof is the most impressive tower, which will greet you as you enter the city limits. It dates back to the 14 th century. You can even climb this tower for views out across the city.

Walk up the Scholar’s Stairway, which was has been around since 1692. There’s 174 steps in total, which will take you up to the church. When we visited, there was a busker up the top of the stairs playing “A stairway to heaven” on his guitar. It was a fitting song and a great way to distract us from the monotonous stairs ahead of us.

At the top of the hill is the Biserica din deal (or Church on the Hill). It dates back to the 14 th century and is the 3 rd largest Gothic church in Transvylvania. One of the prized possessions of the church is the St Martin’s altar, which dates back to 1520.

Tickets at entry: Biserica din deal || 15 minutes || 8 lei

Where to stay in Sighisoara

We stayed at the Hotel Bulevard. It was conveniently located at the base of the citadel. Whilst they don’t have a private parking bay, we found cheap parking in the nearby public carpark (which the hotel reimbursed us for). Whilst this hotel was the most basic of all our hotel stays in Romania, it was good value for a one night stay.

BOOK NOW: Hotel Bulevard, Sighisoara || From €57

Day 8: Drive via Targu Mures, fly out of Cluj Napoca

You’ve made it to the last day of your one week Romania road trip through Transylvania. Today, you’ll need to make the ~2.5 hour drive from Sighisoara to Cluj Napoca. Depending on the time of your flight, consider a stop in Targu Mures.

Targu Mures is another town of Transvylvania. We’d read in Lonely Planet that it is considered “Transylvania’s most underrated town”. As we had an evening flight that day, we made the slight detour by the city. However, the weather gods weren’t playing nicely with us. We experienced torrential rain whilst in the city and we circled all the parking lots for a good 45 minutes with no luck. From what we saw out the car window, the city had some beautiful buildings.

If you do decide to detour via this city, I’d arrive early in the hopes of securing parking. Another alternative would be to stay overnight in the city (instead of Sighisoara) and get accommodation with parking included.

Enjoy your final few hours driving through the Transylvanian countryside before dropping off your rental car in Cluj Napoca.

Other tips and thoughts

Given the small size of the old town of Cluj, you really only need a half a day to one day maximum in the city. Our flight arrived very late in the evening, which is why we spent two nights here. However, if your flight arrives early, consider just staying one night and spending more time somewhere else (I’d recommend Sibiu). 

We didn’t book the car until it was time to leave Cluj Napoca . You don’t need a car whilst you’re in Cluj, and our hotel charged extra for parking. It was cheaper for us to hire a taxi from the airport to our hotel, and then back to Klass Wagen when we commenced our road trip. The airport is also conveniently located on the outskirts of Cluj, so you won’t need to navigate the city traffic!

If you have an early flight on departure from Cluj Napoca, consider staying in Cluj the night before . Make your way direct from Brasov, and spend a half day in Sighisoara.

That’s the end of your one week Romania road trip itinerary through Transylvania. We hope you have an amazing journey.

We’d love to get your thoughts on the itinerary. Is there anything you’d change to our road trip itinerary?

Where to from here? Wizz Air have direct flights from Cluj Napoca to many cities in Europe, including Venice , London and Bari airport in Puglia .

Like our Romanian road trip itinerary? Pin it for later!

4 Responses

I know very little about Romania but have been fascinated with it since Nadia Commenici. (Not sure if I spelt that correctly.. but the gymnast that scored perfect tens, way back when…) So thanks for this visit and over view.

I remember her well! I’m not going to try and spell her name either though 🙂 It really is an excellent place to visit, great scenery and easy on the wallet. Highly recommended!

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Transylvania Road Trip: ultimate 4 days Romania itinerary

• February 23, 2020
• Categories: Europe , Romania

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I visited Romania for the first time in July of 2017. It was a spontaneous trip, but definitely worth remembering. I think traveling to Romania is still a bit underrated, but I definitely recommend it for your next holiday destination .

One of the best things to do in Romania is taking the Transylvania road trip. And this is an adventure that I will tell you about in this post.

I give you here some travel tips about this epic road trip through Romania. You’re going to see some of the best attractions of the region, including Poenari and Bran Castles, Transfagarasan road, and some other cool stuff. So let’s dive into this Transylvania travel guide!

Table of content:

• My personal experience:
• – Not so solo in fact
• – Why travel in Romania by car?

4 Days Transylvania Road Trip Itinerary

• – Day 1: Sinaia Monastery, Bran Castle and Brașov
• – Day 2: Prejmer, Sighișoara, and Sibiu
• – Day 3: Transfăgărășan, Poenari Castle, and Argeș Monastery
• – Day 4: Bucharest

How to plan your Transylvania Road Trip?

Bonus story: sunday in wonderland.

Disclaimer: This post contains some affiliate links. That means that if you click on them or make any purchase via them, I receive a small commission. But don’t worry, this will not cost you anything and in a few cases, you can even receive a special discount! And I will still be able to chase my dreams. So thank you!

My personal experience

As I said before, going to Romania in 2017 was a spontaneous decision for me. I simply found cheap flight tickets for a plane in two weeks from that day and decided to go. Unfortunately, none of my friends had time to travel with me on those days. So I went alone.

And this way, visiting Romania was my very first solo travel abroad .

I still remember the worried faces of my parents (“But do you know that you can come back without a kidney?”) and amazement of my coworkers (“Really? Like solo solo ?”).

But you know what? Traveling solo is not so scary as you might think. Actually, I believe everyone should travel solo for at least one time. It really helps increase self-confidence and take a distance to everything.

Not so solo in fact

But in the end, I was not traveling totally on my own. Since my biggest goal was to ride through Transfăgărășan road , I needed to rent a car (more about this below). But the costs were a little bit too high for my humble budget. So I tried to find travel partners.

To do so, I used the Couchsurfing app . This service is excellent not only to search for a host and a couch to sleep on during travel but also for looking for the people that might join your journey at some step. All you need to do is to switch your search engine from searching for hosts into travelers. As a result, you will gain the list of people traveling in a specific region on exact dates.

Thanks to this feature, and some messages sent to different travelers, I found two guys who were interested in sharing the Transylvania road trip with me. They both were extremely spontaneous, cause, in fact, I persuaded them to change their original travel plans. But I really believe they didn’t regret it!

And this way Jean and Harsh became my travel buddies for a few days in Romania. We rented a car and had an epic Transylvania Road Trip together, spending together 4 days in Transylvania. That is something I recommend to everyone who is traveling to Romania.

Why travel in Romania by car?

Romania is quite easy to travel by train or bus. But some of the best spots on the Romanian bucket list are hard to reach with the public transport. Like the Transfăgărășan road for instance.

The best way to enjoy this journey in 100% is to drive it through with a car, so you can stop, park in a safe place, and admire the stunning views. You can also purchase an organized bus trip, but personally, I prefer a more private way of sightseeing.

In the end, renting a car – or joining other travelers with a car – is the best method to make a complete Transylvania road trip. Traveling from Bucharest to Transylvania by car is one of the best ideas for this epic journey.

Click here to check the car rental prices in Romania

So let’s start our epic Transylvania road trip! On the map below you can see our full Transylvania itinerary and the stops that we took during this journey. Feel free to save this map for later. It might be helpful when you will be planning your perfect trip !

Day 1: Sinaia Monastery, Bran Castle and Brașov

The first day of our adventure began near the Otopeni Airport in Bucharest, where we rented the car. The main goal of that day was to visit Bran Castle. On the way, we also saw the Sinaia Monastery and finished the day in picturesque Brașov. Great beginning of a great trip.

Sinaia Monastery

Our first stop was around 1,5 hours by car from the Otopeni Airport where we visited Sinaia Monastery. It forms the complex of courtyards with two churches: Biserica Veche (The Old Church) and Biserica Mare (The Great Church).

This place is a great spot for people interested in the history of Romanian religion. The Monastery took its name after the Mount Sinai in Egypt. Moreover, the Monastery hosts also the museum which was the first one to expose religious objects in the country. It owns a great collection of icons and crosses, but also the first Bible that was written in the Romanian language.

Bran Castle

Inarguably, Bran Castle is one of the most popular attractions in Romania. Why? Well, I am pretty sure that all of you remember distinguished yet scary Count Dracula .

Probably, the author of Dracula – Bram Stoker – before creating his novel, was inspired by the life of the historical Romanian monarch, Vlad The Impaler . The stories of horrible tortures that he was serving to his enemies were the base for the writer to create the creepy person of Count Dracula, the most recognizable vampire.

In fact, Bram Stoker has never been in Transylvania. But there is a theory, that he saw the drawings of the Bran Castle and thought that this fortress would be perfect for the Count’s residence.

Nowadays, tourists often suppose that Bran was also the home of the real Dracula – Vlad. But in fact, there is no historical evidence that this ruler has ever been in this place. In fact, his real residence was established in the mountains near current Transfăgărășan road. The ruins of Castle Poenari are also on our Transylvania Road Trip’s bucket list .

But if it comes to Bran Castle, the truth is that vampire lovers might be disappointed. The environment of the castle seems more like a cheap Disneyland, with lots of sale stands filled with cheap plastic souvenirs and toys, which strip the castle a bit from its mysterious magic.

But Bran Castle itself is worth the visit anyway. And it’s not because of vampires or bloodthirsty rulers. In fact, the fortress will surprise you with romantic stories of the nation’s love for a woman .

In the early years of the XX century, the Bran Castle became a royal residence of Romanian monarchs. Queen Marie , a member of the Royal Family, was affectionate by her people and consider as very popular.

Today, the Bran Castle, one of Queen’s favorite residences, became the museum of her life . While wandering in the fortress’s rooms, we’ll feel Marie’s adoration in every object and informative board. So instead of fearsome dungeon trips, we will enjoy an adorable visit in the memories of past life.

If you’re traveling in the high season and want to visit Bran Castle without waiting in the queue, purchasing a fast-track ticket might be a good idea.

And below you’ll find some more great activities to enjoy in Bran Castle:

• Bran: Guided Castle Tour
• Bran Castle: Flight over the Bran Area
• Bran Castle: After Hours Dracula’s Castle Tour

Read more: How to get to Bran Castle and the story behind its walls.

We ended up the day in the city of Brașov , which is one of the most popular among the tourists coming to Romania. In Old Town, we will be able to enjoy various architectural styles from different centuries. The most well-known places to visit in Brașov are the Black Church and Strada Sforii.

The Black Church is a huge Gothic monument and the largest Lutheran church in the region. It took its name from events that had a place in 1689: the building burned down, which made its facades black. Local inhabitants started to call it the Black Church, and this name remained until our times.

In Brașov, you could also take a walk on the narrowest street in Romania, and one of the narrowest in entire Europe. It’s Strada Sforii , which the main purpose was to create a passage for firefighters in old times. Its width oscillates between 111 and 135 centimeters, and it is 80 meters long.

From Brașov, you can enjoy many interesting day trips and activities. They may make your road trip through Romania even more exciting:

• Brasov: Half-Day Sights & Bites Tour with a Local Guide
• Wildlife trekking in Putna Vrancea Natural Park
• Day Trip to Ohaba Water Mill and Cave Temple
• Small-Group 7 Ladders Canyon Day Trip
• From Brasov: Day Trip to Bison Reserve & Traditional Lunch
• 40-Minute Helicopter Flight over Bran and Peles Castles

Wanna more? Discover other unique experiences in Brașov on the Budget Bucketlist’s blog !

Day 2: Prejmer, Sighișoara, and Sibiu

The day number two was a continuation of diving into the Romanian history. Moreover, visiting the mentioned cities gave us a nice overlook of Romanian life in both big cities and in the countryside.

Fortified Church in Prejmer

Prejmer, in fact, is a small village in the idyllic Romanian countryside. But it hides a great historical place, definitely worth visiting. Transylvania is well-known not only because of Dracula but also because of its fortified churches. And the church in Prejmer is one of them.

The construction of the Prejmer church began in 1218, and since then it was the safest place for local people to take refuge from invaders. The whole complex consists of a small church in the middle, and huge walls around it. The walls were so thick that they formed a place to many rooms and compartments which were used by civils in case of danger.

Nowadays, everyone is able to visit the Fortified Church in Prejmer, and this is something that I highly recommend. It is not so besieged by tourists, so you will have the opportunity to experience the history of this place in your own individual way. If you will be lucky, you will even hear the Orthodox songs while wandering alone in the mysterious corridors inside the fortress’s walls.

Sighișoara was a city that enchanted me the most during the whole Transylvania road trip. This charming town is a true pearl of medieval architecture. Walking among its streets will give us a great feeling of the past times.

The main highlight of Sighișoara is the Clock Tower . Currently being a museum , it used to be the place of city council gatherings. The view from its top galleries covers the whole panorama of the city. On the decorated Tower we can admire the wooden figures representing personifications of the Law, the Justice, the Peace, and the weekdays.

Another interesting construction in Sighișoara is the Scholars’ Stairs . This stair-passage covered with a wooden corridor was built in 1642 in order to protect the children marching to the school located on the hill.

On the same hill, we will find the Church on the Hill , the most representative Gothic monument in the whole city. Inside we can admire the collection of altars, and many polychromes which are step by step unraveled from below the walls paint.

But probably the most exciting city curiosity hides in one of the Old Town’s houses. On one of the adorable streets – Piața Muzeului – we will find Casa Dracula . Yes, you are considering it right. In this house, the archetype of the Stoker’s character was born. But Vlad The Impaler was living here only for four first years of his life. But nevertheless, the memory of this event still entices the tourists.

Sighișoara is an inspiring city, and a great idea here will be to take a 2-hour guided city tour . Alternatively, you can also play the Medieval Citadel City Exploration Game and Tour what is a fascinating way of spending time in this city.

Sibiu is another beautiful city on the Romanian map. It is a place where a few cultural influences have been meeting during the centuries: Romanian, Hungarian, German. Its picturesque streets often remain Polish Krakow.

Almost every weekend there is a festival in Sibiu (and we also enjoyed one). The city offers dozens of cultural attractions. Besides many events, you can also spend your time in one of the city museums which tell the stories of art, culture, history, and science.

Sibiu is also a great place to get this unique Romanian experience to be observed by the city’s eyes… The exceptional shape of roof windows on the buildings in the Old Town makes a particular impression, that the city is a huge magical creature that let you discover itself, but still keeps eyes on you .

Day 3: Transfăgărășan, Poenari Castle, and Argeș Monastery

The third day of the Transylvania road trip was the most exciting for me . It was a day when we planned to drive through the Transfăgărășan road. Stunning views guaranteed!

Transfăgărășan road

Like I said before, reaching the Transfăgărășan without a car was very challenging. And the biggest advantage of actually having a car was that you could stop anywhere in a safe place on the road and delight your eyes with beautiful views.

Transfăgărășan is often called one of the most beautiful roads in Europe. We entered the road from the Northside which almost immediately rewarded us with the crazy exceptional view of the road serpentines climbing on the mountainside. Although the sky was cloudy and we could not see the highest mountain peaks, the landscape made a great impression.

Even when we passed by this most popular spot of the Transfăgărășan road, the ride was still exciting and we couldn’t get our eyes out of the beauty outside the windows.

This road is so stunning that it depends its own post! Click here to read more about the Transfăgărășan road and how to get there!

Even though we didn’t finish that day in the area of Transfăgărășan road, this is the place where many people would like to spend the night. So I made small research and I choose three places which might be interesting for you if you would like to stay among the mountains :

• Complex Pastravaria Albota – Rating: 9.4/10: This lovely place offers rooms made in a rustic style with free Wifi and delicious breakfast. It also provides many additional activities such as horse riding, archery, swimming pool, and many others! Click here and check the prices in this place on Booking.com!
• Hotel Posada Vidraru – Rating: 8.9/10: This object is located just 200 meters from the Vidraru Tam. It offers more exclusive rooms and a relaxing SPA & wellness area, a gym, a swimming pool, and a sauna. Click here and check the prices in this place on Booking.com!
• Complex Vila Balea – Rating: 9.1/10: This place offers cute rooms and lovely bungalows hidden among the deep forest. It also hosts the guest in a local restaurant serving delicious meals. Click here and check the prices in this place on Booking.com!

Poenari Castle

Even more breathtaking views! Oh, wait. Your breath will be actually taken by the 1462 steps.

That’s right. To reach the REAL ruins of Dracula’s castle, you need to climb on 1462 stairs. But this adventure is definitely worth the effort.

Poenari Castle was a place of living of Vlad The Impaler ( Vlad Drăculea ). In this hard to reach the fortress, he was able to rule the whole region and to repel the attack of enemy armies. The castle was also a place of birth all of the terrible stories about Vlad’s cruelty.

And in fact, the authorities managing the castle will take care that you will feel this bloodcurdling story on your own skin. Once you will climb to the ruins’ foundation, you will be welcomed by the view of two gentlemen loaded on piles. Climatic, indeed.

From the ruins, the incredible views of the surroundings are spreading around. This place was almost impossible to capture and was giving to its owner a great advantage in the form of the best observing point in the area. And today we can use it to enjoy the beauty of the Făgăraș Mountains.

Argeș Monastery

Driving through the mountains was the main point of that day on our Transylvania road trip itinerary. But we still had some time before the end of the day, so we took advantage of it and visited the Argeș Monastery .

The Argeș Monastery is one of the most important monuments of the Romanian architecture of the XVI century. The building looks like a piece of art among the green surroundings. The white walls reflect the sunlight, and the sophisticated, highly decorative towers remind more sculptures or jewelry than construction elements.

There is also an interesting legend connected to this place. According to some, Meșterul Manole was the main architect of the temple. But the construction of the building did not go his way, so he was unable to finish the project. He decided to try the ancient custom of placing the living woman into the foundations. This way, he sacrificed his own wife and locked her forever in the Monastery’s walls. After this, the construction went better, and he finally finished the building.

But he also paid a bill for his act. According to some ancient texts, Radu Negru, who was the founder of the Argeș Monastery, was that much delighted with the effect, that he didn’t want Manole to ever build another building which could be even more beautiful. So he locked the architect on the top of the Monastery’s tower. Manole wanted to escape from the trap, so he built wooden wings, and tried to fly away. As you can suppose, he didn’t manage to do it. The well of clear water represents the place where, according to the legend, Manole fell.

Day 4: Bucharest

The last day of the Transylvania road trip was devoted to Bucharest . The Romanian capital which felt very domestic to me. In fact, my personal impression was that Bucharest was somewhere between Warsaw and Paris. The glorious and rich architecture looked like a smaller version of French magnificence. But here and there you can still meet the memories of years spent below the communist system. Even if so, Bucharest has plenty of photo-worthy places that you shouldn’t miss.

In fact, Bucharest was the city that I really liked. Actually, on the first day of my arrival in Romania, I had a walk around the center with my Couchsurfing host. This way, I get into a few hidden awesome spots that only locals knew about. Which was a great advantage of using Couchsurfing .

But to dive more into the Bucharest’s history and interesting curiosities about the city, I recommend joining a free walking tour . I joined one, and it was great. The guide told us some of the most curious facts about Bucharest, and below you will find a few of my favorites.

The Palace of the Parliament building

The building of Romanian Parliament was another caprice (next to Transfăgărășan road) of the famous dictator – Nicolae Ceaușescu. Since he had a weakness for the giant stuff, he decided to build the biggest possible building to expose his power.

In 1980, the construction site caused the demolition of 7 square kilometers of the Old Town and the relocation of 40 000 inhabitants. In the gained place the army of architects and construction workers created The Palace of The Parliament. Their work is the biggest civil-administration building in the world. Its height is 86 meters and 92 meters below the ground level . It was also the most expensive building in the world: the total cost exceeded 3 milliards €.

Psst. By clicking here you can purchase the skip-the-line ticket to the Parliament building!

The moving churches

Since Ceaușescu was absorbed with his new vision of Bucharest’s architecture, he was open to demolish any building that stood in his way. He planned to destroy many ancient temples in order to build his Palace of the Parliament. Fortunately, some of the people that still had some influence on the dictator’s decisions, prevailed him to move the troubling buildings instead of demolishing them.

This way some of the most beautiful churches, as well as some ugly yet useful blockhouses, get rescued from the devastation. The Romanian engineers used the systems of tracks to move the buildings… by hundreds of meters . Thanks to this, today, we can visit those temples in the less obvious city corners.

The ugliest statue

Statue of Trajan and she-wolf is a thorn in the eye for many Bucharest’s residents. The capital offers lots of beautiful monuments to admire, but this one definitely stands out from the crowd. The naked Emperor Trajan with kind of levitating she-wolf combined with a snake stands on the steps in front of the National Museum of Romanian History.

The intent of the statue creator was to combine various symbols of Romanian nation : Trajan represents the Rome’s times, she-wolf reminds the legend of Romulus and Remus, and the snake – Dacian Draco – is a symbol of the Dacian nation who was living in the region in the old times.

Nevertheless, the statue expression is very controversial among the inhabitants. That much that on the Internet we can find plenty of photo parodies and memes about the statue (including the photos of other people lifting their own dogs next to Trajan).

If you’ll be doing a road trip from Bucharest to Brașov or the other way, there is plenty of interesting stops you should do on the road!

• Book your flight: I found my cheap tickets from Warsaw to Bucharest by using the Skyscanner search engine .
• Rent a car: trust me, it will make your road trip much easier. Instead, you can try to find other travelers with a car and join them. And while renting a car remember to pay attention if Roviniete is included – this will be your pass to drive on the Romanian roads. Remember that driving after drinking is strictly forbidden in Romania, and all the passengers must use safety belts.
• Prepare your itinerary: in total, I was in Romania for 6 days at that time. At first, I also wanted to visit the seashore, but when I started to plan my trip I realized I would simply have no time for it. So try not to overload your plan with attractions, because there are so many of them, that you might be disappointed with the lack of time. Feel free to save my Transylvania road trip map from the beginning of this post in your Google maps and treat it as a base for your own itinerary. Not a bad idea will be purchasing a guidebook of Romania . It’ll help you take out the most of your visit to this charming country.
• Book your accommodation: in Bucharest, I used the Couchsurfing. But for the rest of the places we used Booking.com, and to be honest, we always were making it for the last minute. You can also use Airbnb, and by clicking here you will get the 23€ discount for your first stay !
• Remember about formalities: Romania is a part of the European Union, but it’s not yet a member of the Schengen Area. So you need to take your passport with you to cross its borders. If it comes to the currency, the actual is Romanian leu . In most places you can pay with a card, nevertheless, I recommend to have some cash with you to pay in smaller shops or attractions.
• Exchange some local currency: in Romania, the Romanian leu is currently in use. You can easily exchange it in the Revolut app from other currencies and pay with your Revolut multicurrency card. I love using Revolut because it’s a great international tool to pay in the whole world in almost 150 different currencies. Click here and read my Revolut review.
• Don’t forget useful gear: a flexible backpack ( click here and read a review of my current weekender backpacks ) to fit all of your stuff, and some other road trip essentials is a must.

During this Romanian trip, for the first time, I thought that maybe one day I should start a blog. So it took me one year to realize this idea.

But it was also Romania, where the main part of my blog’s name was born.

My name is Dominika . Which in Latin means literally belonging to God . Maybe it is not exactly true in my case but never mind. Also, this name usually refers to the saint Lord’s day – Sunday.

And in fact, Sunday in Romanian means Duminică . One of my travel buddies during this trip – Harsh – was delighted with this fact and started to call me Sunday .

After a few months, I thought that maybe it could be a nice name for a travel blog. Sunday In Wonderland links to a few aspects:

• my name, obviously
• the weekend traveling, which I was doing quite often before I quit my full-time job
• and the Wonderland refers to my childish fondness for fairy tales and search for unbelievable stories in the world around us

So here you go. Now you know the whole story.

Romania is a beautiful country, full of stunning landscapes and interesting history. Driving in Transylvania is only one of the many awesome activities that you should try there. Nevertheless, this country has lots of other stories to tell which I hope to discover one day.

Have you been to Transylvania already? Which place was your absolute favorite? Share in a comment!

Like it? Pin it!

Dominika is a founder of Sunday In Wonderland and she recently switched her life to be local independent. She aims to travel the world and admire all of its wonders. She is much focused on sustainable life, self-development and making this world a better place.

Hi there! I’m Dominika, the occasional traveler and the creator of this blog. I am here to help you plan your short and long trips around the globe and fully enjoy the time that you have to spend. Click here to get to know me better.

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One Response

Hi Dominika, Wow, that is a very detailed post about the things to do in Romania. Yes, a car is great if you’re looking to discover Romania in a short time but the real gems can be revealed if you take it slowly. The Saxon villages in Transylvania, the bike trails around Viscri, the beautiful Carpathian mountains and the stunning landscape of the villages near Piatra Craiului mountains are accessible only by foot or by attending bike tours in Transylvania or hiking tours https://outdoorholidays.eu/hiking-tours-romania/ Moreover, if you are interested in bear viewing in Romania, the area around Brasov is perfect for this activity, as there are numerous hides in the wild, where tourists can go and see the brown bears from a close distance.

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9 Days in Transylvania: Romania Road Trip Highlights & Guide

From medieval cities to scenic mountain drives, here’s everything you need to know..

Last updated Jun 4, 2023

Our nine-day visit to the Transylvania area (including an epic Romania Road Trip) is something that will definitely stand out in our travels. From wandering the quaint, medieval streets of Brasov and Sighisoara to driving the twisty-turny Transfagarasan Highway – and so many moments in between.

It’s difficult to narrow down our Romania highlights, since we just loved this country so much, but we’ll give it a try.

Table of Contents

1. Wandering Brasov

The first major stop of our trip was the beautiful town of Brasov. We arrived on a Saturday via train from Bucharest, expecting it to be crowded as most European cities often are on the weekends. But, it was calm, quiet and a relaxing place to wander.

We were instantly in love with the medieval architecture, delicious (and inexpensive!) food options, and happy people. It really set the tone for a great trip. The iconic Council Square was our favorite spot!

Side Note: Truth be told, we may have very much loved Bucharest as well, but we didn’t see any of it. By the time we got to our hotel after our flight in from Athens , it was getting dark and we were exhausted. We didn’t even leave the hotel for food since we found a Pizza Hut and ordered some very lack-luster food online. But, that’s the extent of our experiences there!

Getting Around & Where We Stayed

Since we didn’t have our car rental at the start of our Romania trip, we just train hopped to our first couple of destinations – including Brasov where we needed to use public transport to go into town.

Funny enough, we had read some blogs and reviews that it wasn’t a safe area – we’d be pickpocketed or things would be stolen from the table at dinner, we had to have our guard up at all times. NO!!!! Not this at all. These must have been old blog posts, because the only time we felt unsafe in this city was when our Uber driver decided to prioritize talking to us over driving. [FACEPALM] Of course, don’t be irresponsible, but there’s no need to be afraid.

However, I’ll note that we did stick to Uber over taxis because of the TripAdvisor notes about them trying to trick you out of more money and we just didn’t want to deal with it. May not be true, but we went the easy route just to be safe. Plus, we like using Uber as to not exchange cash.

We also stayed out of the main part of the city to be closer to the train station we used to get into and out of Brasov. Plus, it saved us some money and we got to stay at the fairly new and very nice Victoria Boulevard Hotel with a great breakfast included for US$78. Since the Ubers were so inexpensive, we thought this was well worth it.

Cost: About US$2 each way for Ubers to and from the hotel (since we stayed out of town), and US$8 each for meals.

2. Going Up Tampa Mountain in Brasov

One of the must-do activities in Brasov that we kept reading about was taking the cable car up the nearby Tampa Mountain to the iconic Brasov sign . It turned out to be one of the highlights of our visit to this beautiful city.

It’s quite easy to get to the cable car from town as well. However, there’s also a trail for those wanting a little more exercise on the way up and/or down the mountain. But regardless, at the top of the mountain, be sure to spend some time walking around to the various viewpoints. It’s lovely on a sunny day!

Cost : To take the cable car round trip, it is 17 lei (about US$4) . But for a free option, you could hike both ways! It’s only about an hour to hike up … just a steep climb!

3. Venturing into Salina Turda

We are total suckers for anything unique. So, when we saw we could go to an apocalyptic-looking amusement park deep underground in a salt mine, we couldn’t be stopped from going to Salina Turda.

This otherworldly place has a Ferris Wheel, mini-golf, bowling, ping-pong, and even some boats to paddle around on the underground lake. It’s a wild place that we highly recommend visiting. You can read more about our visit to Salina Turda , but trust us – it’s a hidden gem!

Cost: Entry for  Salina Turda  is 40 lei per adult (about US$10), plus 5 lei for parking. Then  each activity  is more as well.

4. Turda Gorge (aka Cheile Turzii)

Late summer and early fall is the perfect time for a hike into nature. The cliff-side hike into Turda Gorge was just what we needed to stretch out our legs before a full day of driving.

It’s a GORGEous place with a fun trail that takes you over bridges and along rocky trails. You can also easily do this and a visit to Salina Turda in one day! See more from our visit at the end of the blog .

Cost: A few lei at a kiosk early on in the hike, but it appears it isn’t always working. So, sometimes it may be free!

5. Driving the Transfagarasan Highway

If you do one thing while in Romania, rent a car and drive this road. It’s a must if you love a good adventure or nature or beautiful views. The 130+ km drive twists and turns up into the mountains, over a stunning dam, and through lush forests. You may even see a bear, like we did!

To really extend the adventure, plan to stay at the lodge at Balea Lake (about US$60) at the top of the highway where you can take in the serene views until the stars come out. You could also plan to camp or just leave extra early to have plenty of time to enjoy this unforgettable area – and maybe even make a sheepdog friend. Oh – and in winter, there’s a cable car up to the lake and an ice hotel! YESSSS, please!?!?!

Read more about the beautiful Transfagarasan Highway here .

Cost: Just the cost of fuel (and lodging, if you want to stay overnight – which you totally should).

6. Exploring Rupea Fortress

We initially planned to see all the castles in the Transylvania area of Romania. Well … apparently, early September is still quite busy and the ones we were looking forward to seeing most were absolute madhouses when we got there. Parking was a nightmare (if even possible) and it just didn’t seem enjoyable with so many other people crammed into the same narrow hallways.

We’re a bit bummed to not have gone into Bran Castle or Peles Castle, but will definitely plan for it next time (because there WILL be a next time). And will likely just take a tour to avoid the crazy parking and traffic nonsense. Luckily, we found better weather and better success elsewhere.

We did get to go up to Rupea Fortress with no issues at all. It was in a wonderful location up on a hill in the small town of Rupea. And it was an interesting place – one of the oldest archeological sites in Romania – with great views. Best of all, it was easy to get to and we had it almost all to ourselves.

Cost: Entry fee was 10 lei (less than US$2.50) per adult at the time of our visit. There was no fee to park. Note, both Peles and Bran Castles had a parking fee and much higher entry fees!

7. Eating at Viscri 32: White Barn & Blue House

Nestled in the old-timey Saxon village of Viscri (a UNESCO World Heritage site) is an amazing foodie find. After parking around the corner in a designated lot, we walked down a trail past farm animals, until we found the back entrance to an adorable little historic farmhouse – Viscri 32: White Barn & Blue House . We had been told about this must-try place by another nomadic couple we met on a train, so I added it to our list!

This is the type of place I dream of finding in every little town we stumble upon. Delicious, local dishes, served in a lovely atmosphere with kind staff who seem to really enjoy their work. They even have an AirBnB on-site for those wanting to explore this unique little village more – or for those wanting to eat multiple meals at Viscri 32!

For our meal, we went for the four-course tasting menu option and split it. This included a starter plate of traditional cheeses, soup (went with the veggie one with pickled tarragon and potato), a main (Buddy had to try the traditional dish of potatoes and local sheep’s cheese with sausage), and a dessert of lush chocolate cake. Such a delicious and special meal.

Cost: We spent 110 lei (about US$25) for a four-course meal that we split. And it was so worth it for the experience and delicious, fresh food. It was definitely split-able as well. We were both stuffed.

8. Wandering Around Sighisoara

This city!!! I really wish we had planned more time to just take in this amazing medieval city. There were all these narrow paths leading to surprising new views of the countryside or surrounding city. And, of course, the architecture was absolutely stunning.

For you history lovers, it is one of seven fortified citadels that the Transylvanian Saxons built in the 12th century. It’s also where Vlad the Impaler was born (the actual man who is said to be the inspiration for the fictional Dracula character).

While there for our one night, we stayed at the classy and conveniently located Hotel Central Park Sighisoara (US$83 per night) which had great views of the city and free parking in an actual parking lot rather than the street. Hallelujah!

Cost: Free to wander! Food was also reasonable at about US$10 each for a meal with a beer.

9. Exploring the Best Bars & Restaurants in Cluj

While not as architecturally beautiful as places like Brasov and Sighisoara, Cluj-Napoca was a foodie dream and so much fun! It was actually voted as the European Youth Capital Winner in 2015, which makes so much sense.

We could definitely hang out there for a longer period with its awesome youthful vibe and so many great food options from around the world.

A few food & drink highlights in Cluj for us were:

• Tortelli : The best pasta – obviously homemade and delicious. It took all of our strength not to eat here for every meal. So good!
• Eggcetera : This place had a fantastic breakfast that even came with a small bite to enjoy while we waited for our main course. I had avotoast because duh and Buddy had an amazing fruity french toast. Great fresh juice, too!

• Blend : We stopped for beers after some yummy Indian food next door. We loved how helpful and chatty the bartender was. When we told him we were from Colorado, he was psyched to talk beer and travel. Our fave was the Sencha Japanese Tea Pale Ale from Hop Hooligans.
• The Soviet : This bar basically mocks communism and makes damn good cocktails. Themed drinks, silly propaganda, and lots of red. It’s a popular spot!

It’s also worth noting that while we found most Romanians to be nice, the younger people in this town especially were very friendly and happy to speak to us in English. Definitely a bonus!

Cost: Since it’s a bit more hipster, food was slighlty more expensive. But, we could still easily eat for around US$10 each at most places and get some cheap beers.

Logistics for a Visit to Transylvania, Romania

We began our trip by flying into Bucharest from Athens (fairly easy!), then did some train hopping from Brasov to Sibiu to Cluj-Napoca, then rented a car round-trip to go see some beautiful natural places and small villages we couldn’t get to by train. And it was absolutely lovely!

Getting Around Romania

A quick search into transportation in Romania is quite concerning. The comments on the trains, buses, and taxis are not very positive. And while traveling Romania by car is easy for the most part – renting one and managing not to damage it while there is a whole nother story.

But we did it! We traveled through the Transylvania area by train and bus and Uber and even spent five days road tripping. And it is one of those trips that will be top of our list for a long time to come.

Tips for Romania Train-Hopping

• They can get busy, so it’s best to order online beforehand ( we used this site ).
• We found spending a little extra for fist class was usually worth it for more room for us and our bags. But each train is different.
• Sometimes it is necessary to pick up your tickets in advance (have a form of an ID, if needed).
• It’s often not clear where your seat assignment is, so just try to read the signs and nicely ask for help.

• There usually isn’t a dining cart. So, bring food and water – especially if on a long journey.
• Don’t expect anything fancy or fast. The trains are very basic and very, very slow compared to others in Europe. But not as bad as some reviews made it sound.
• Also, if going from Romania into another country via train, they will stop the train to stamp passports and will likely take your passport for a few minutes then return it. Nerve-wracking, but apparently normal.

Romania Car Rental & Planning a Road Trip

• Rent with a reputable company and read all the paperwork. Seriously. There are all sorts of extra fees and rules. We had a good experience with Avis – they even gave us some helpful tips. But, that’s mainly because Buddy read about all the sneaky small print for days!

• Be very clear on the insurance you need and what you have if using a credit card with it included (what we did). They are notorious for charging crazy amounts for something like a small scratch, so its best to be fully covered. Apparently, hub caps falling off is a common issue, so maybe check they are on well!
• Plan to get the roadside assistance, just in case. It’s not that much more and worth the peace of mind.
• The WAZE App is really helpful for avoiding potholes and construction, since you’ll get warnings.

• Take photos and videos when picking up and returning the car. And get a paper receipt, don’t have it emailed to you so your wife has to panic for an hour that they are going to claim you never brought the car or something. Or wait until it’s in your inbox before you leave.
• Look out for donkeys, women walking with cows, farmers, donkeys, stray dogs, and people aggressively trying to hitchhike.
• Have fun and don’t be afraid to explore some places you didn’t initially plan to. That’s the best part of a road trip.

Finding Great Places to Stay

We had really great luck using Booking.com to find hotels and apartments to rent during our visit to Romania. The only time we didn’t use this site was when we went to Lake Balea and just paid cash at the counter.

Here’s a rundown of everywhere we stayed (we’ve starred our faves):

• Bucharest : The Embassy Nord – US$49. Near the train station since we were just in town to sleep, nothing fancy, but wouldn’t recommend if trying to explore more.
• * Brasov : Victoria Bulevard Hotel – US$78. Near the train station again to make life easier, but no issues at all Ubering into town. Very nice with good breakfast included.
• * Sibiu : Villa Bohemia – US$43. Close to great dining options and walking distance to town with the iconic Bridge of Lies. Nice room and LOVELY people! We had to leave early, so the owner made us egg sandwiches to take with us. So sweet!
• Turda : Hunter Prince Castle & Dracula Hotel – US$51. Aside from the quirky theme, this wasn’t anything very special. Basic room, good breakfast, and parking included.

• * Lake Balea : Cabana Balea Lac – US$60. A fantastic value for the views and location! Very basic room, but a good breakfast was included.
• Busteni : Complex Cochet – US$83. We stayed at this nice hotel with the best breakfast spread we have yet to see in order to be close to Peles Castle. However, we didn’t realize it would be such a busy and expensive place, so after driving into the madness, we turned around and headed north.
• * Sighisoara : Hotel Central Park Sighisoara – US$82. I loved this conveniently located, beautiful hotel. It had breakfast and secure parking included as well – a must on a road trip.
• Cluj-Napoca : Central Park Apartments – US$38. This apartment had everything we needed for a comfortable visit – even a laundry machine! YES!!! However, we’ve since decided not to stay anywhere without a self-check-in or 24-hour reception because meeting someone to get a key is a hassle.

Final Tips for Visiting Transylvania, Romania

• Talk to the locals! We found them all very nice and excited to share about their homeland.
• Expect slow trains with minimal amenities, but they’re cheap!
• Be careful about budget car rentals. There are tons of up charges and we read they will really get you for minor damage.
• Uber is often easier and faster than taxis and buses.
• Visiting Bran & Peles Castles can be crazy in the busy season, so if we were to go again, we’d likely just book a tour to avoid the hassles of parking and driving in traffic. Or get there before opening time!
• Download the WAZE app for tips on where there is construction, potholes, etc. This was a life-saver for our road trip.

Did we just add Romania to your must-visit list, or did you already know how magical this wonderful country is? Let us know in the comments!

About the Author: Brooke Baum

Brooke is a freelance writer, editor, and content manager for various blog sites. After five years of full-time travel with her husband Buddy, they made the beautiful island of Oahu, Hawaii, their permanent home base. However, they still travel regularly and are always planning their next trip.

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Last Updated on July 27, 2021

Romania might be the very best country in Europe to enjoy a road trip. It’s a deceptively massive country with all of its villages, towns, and cities separated far apart from one another. No two cities are anywhere near each other in Romania, and so the country is sending every visitor an open invitation to hop in a rental car and explore the landscape.

Speaking of the landscape, it’s a varied and rocky ocean of tall snow-capped mountain peaks, deep and flat valleys, and rolling green hills. Romania offers some of the best views in all of Europe, and the best way to see them is from the window of your own rental car. Getting around Romania by car is freeing and exhilarating. Here is everything you need to know before driving around Romania, as well as a complete road trip itinerary for getting around Romania.

Driving in Romania

What is it actually like to drive around Romania for people who have never visited the country before? Well, there are a few key things to know before planning your Transylvania road trip.

In Romania, they drive on the left side of the car and the right side of the road. The traffic laws are similar to those in other EU nations. Roads are often closed or inaccessible during the snowy winter months so it’s best to plan your road trip itinerary for the summer months, when the grass is greenest and the roads are clear.

The biggest obstacle to driving in Romania can be found in the capital of Bucharest. Driving in most of the country is liberating and exciting, but driving in Bucharest is something of a nightmare. The roads are hellish and congested; the local people drive with terrifying speed and aggression; it is not a fun place to drive at all. Make sure you have travel insurance when you do hire a car ! I highly recommend World Nomads or SafetyWing .

Driving outside Bucharest is a whole different story. In other cities, and across the landscape between those cities, the roads are clear, quiet, wide, and open. People drive with a lot more patience and consideration. You won’t find any problems driving outside the capital.

The only other surprise you’ll find when driving around Romania is that, in the provincial towns and villages, travel by horse and cart is very common. So, when driving your rental car through the more isolated areas of the country, be wary of the slower pace and the fact that you may have to overtake or wait patiently for a horse and cart to move out of your way.

If you are considering getting around Romania without a car, it is absolutely possible and quite cheap. The trains between major cities, and buses out to smaller historic towns are reliable and quick. Driving, however, is definitely the most fun and freeing way of getting around Romania. Renting a car is also very cheap and affordable in Romania, more so than in most other European nations.

Romania Road Trip Itinerary

The best place to begin your Romania road trip is, of course, Bucharest. It’s where you’ll fly into and it’s where most people will spend a few days before heading out to explore the rest of the city. As already mentioned, however, Bucharest is not an ideal place to drive. So, to avoid this, head to Gara de Nord train station in Bucharest and hop on a train to the nearby town of Sinaia.

The journey will take you no more than thirty minutes and, once there, you’ll be far enough out of Bucharest for driving to be fun. In Sinaia, you can rent a car from any car rental chain, such as Sixt, and then head out on your journey around Romania.

In order to see everything that Romania has to offer, this is the best route to take from Bucharest and Sinaia:

• North to Brasov
• Stay for two nights in Brasov
• Day trips to Bran Castle and Rasnov Fortress
• North to Sighisoara
• Stay the night in Sighisoara
• North to Cluj-Napoca
• Stay for two nights in Cluj-Napoca
• West to Timisoara
• Stay in Timisoara for two nights
• Return to Bucharest

The majority of this is a Transylvania road trip, and Transylvania is where you’ll find the most spellbinding and magical views. The Transylvania landscape is hypnotic in its beauty and splendour. As you drive further and further north – to Brasov, Sighisoara, and Cluj-Napoca – the landscape only becomes more dramatic and more sublime as you go.

The drive from Sinaia to Brasov will take around two hours. Once there, stay for two nights and explore the city at your leisure. With a car, you can easily take day trips to the nearby historic sites of Bran Castle (the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula) and Rasnov Fortress (an untouched hilltop citadel from the 14th century).

From Brasov, the drive north to Sighisoara will take approximately 90 minutes. The drive is winding and takes you over a few mountains, but the roads are strong and you’re not likely to meet any danger along the way.

Sighisoara is small, but worth spending a night in so that you can fully enjoy the cafe and restaurant scene there, as well as visit sights such as the bell tower, the church on the hill, and the house where Vlad Dracula himself was born.

Onward to Cluj-Napoca, which should take another two hours of driving northwest. Cluj-napoca is the second-largest city in Romania, after Bucharest, and is also home to some of the nations best museums, galleries, and art scene. Cluj-Napoca has great food, a great music scene, and some of the friendliest people in the country. There is enough to do for two days in Cluj-Napoca.

Your penultimate drive is a big one, south and west to Timisoara, Romania’s third-largest city. This drive will take four hours, with some incredible scenery along the way. But Timisoara is a bustling city of great restaurants and shopping opportunities that should not be missed.

The final leg of your journey is the longest: a six-hour drive east, back to where you began in the capital of Bucharest. This road trip will take you through all of the best locations in Romania, and across the very best scenery imaginable. The road trip of a lifetime.

Other articles you will love:

11 Incredible Things to Do in Timisoara, Romania

Romania in the winter: is it worth it.

• How to get from Brasov to Bran Castle

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Author: Jessica Esa

Jessica is a full-time freelance travel writer from the UK. She splits her time between East Asia and Europe and has traveled extensively within those regions. She also manages Books and Bao, a travel and culture blog with her partner. Find her on her travel blog Books and Bao and on social media @booksandbao

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8-Days Itineraries for Memorable Family Road Trips in Romania

Home » Visit » Travel Ideas » 8-Days Itineraries for Memorable Family Road Trips in Romania

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• Transylvania
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Diana Condrea

Are you planning a family road trip in Romania and want to make the most of your vacation? Check our detailed itineraries with options and activities that are great even for cranky toddlers.

First is first. You’ll need a car because this is the best way to travel in Romania. As much as we’d like to limit our carbon footprint, the complicated connections and slow speed make train travel an unattractive option for families. Major exceptions are the train connections from Bucharest to Brasov and Bucharest to Constanta.

Second, our family road trips in Romania include some of the must-see landmarks in Romania, without planning to check all the sites on Trip Advisor. In the end, slow travel is the best way to travel with tired, sleepy, or hungry kids.­

Read also  The Best Affordable Hotels in Transylvania

Orbán Balázs Cave, Varghisului Gorges

Both itineraries start and end in Brasov, but you can easily adapt them even if you start in Bucharest. The approximated distances are based on Google Maps navigation.

1. Road trip in Transylvania

Brasov – Rasnov – Zarnesti – Porumbacu de Sus – Hosman – Sibiu – Alba Iulia– Turda – Malancrav – Sighisoara – Rupea – Brasov

Duration: 8 days / Distance: around 775 km

Perfect for families with toddlers and preschoolers

Anyone who’s ever traveled with small kids knows how crucial it is to find playgrounds, amusement parks, and any fun activities to keep the little ones happy. You cannot possibly take a 3-year-old to see churches, squares, or museums and not offer him or her an awesome experience as well.

This itinerary fits well with most sightseeing tours in and around Brasov, Sibiu, Sighisoara, and Cluj. You can do it all or split it depending on where you start.

Day 1: Dino Parc, Rasnov Fortress, and Valea Cetatii Cave

Driving distance: 30 km /Spend the night in Rasnov

Starting in Brasov, drive to Rasnov and visit Dino Parc. This dinosaur-themed amusement park has many playgrounds for the little ones and opens daily from 10 am. It’s on the way to Rasnov Fortress and close to Valea Cetatii Cave , both family-friendly attractions.

Velociraptor, Dino Park

Photo credits dinoparc.ro

Check Dino Parc’s schedule and fees

Day 2: The Bear Sanctuary and Zarnesti Gorges

Driving distance: 40 km / Spend the night in Porumbacu de Sus

If your kids are above five, visit on the following day the Bear Sanctuary from Zarnesti. Spend the afternoon walking in Zarnesti Gorges from Piatra Craiului National Park. It’s an easy walk, suitable even for toddlers, perfect to get them tired for a quiet drive to Porumbacu de Sus.

Buy the sanctuary tickets in advance on millionsoffriends.org

Zarnesti Gorges

Day 3: Transfagarasan and Porumbacu de Sus

Driving distance: 200 km / Spend the night in Porumbacu de Sus

Start the day early and drive from Rasnov to Balea Lake to enjoy the landscapes of the nearby Transfagarasan . Stop for the night in nearby Porumbacu de Sus and take your kids to see the fairytale Castelul de Lut. This village from the foothills of the Fagaras Mountains is a great choice if you want to spend a few more days relaxing.

Photo credits valeazanelor.ro

Day 4: Mocanita train and Sibiu

Spend the night in Sibiu / Driving distance: 60 km

On your way to Sibiu, stop in Hosman for a morning ride with the steam train Mocanita to Cornatel and back. You can buy the train tickets on sibiuagnitarailway.com .

Continue to Sibiu and spend the afternoon walking around the central squares of the Old Town. These pedestrian areas are great for kids to run around and eat too much ice cream in the summertime.

Day 5: Alba Iulia Citadel

Driving distance: 80 km / Spend the night in Alba Iulia

Add a bit of history to your family road trip to Romania. Drive to Alba Iulia and visit the Citadel , only one hour away from Sibiu. The changing of the guard ceremony is a great attraction for kids, and they have large spaces to run around while you try to visit at least some of the sites.

Change of guards, Alba Iulia

Day 6: Turda Salt Mine

Driving distance: 220 km / Spend the night in Malancrav

Take your kids to play in the underground, in the biggest salt mine in Romania, for a memorable family time.

Check the schedule and fees on www.salinaturda.eu

Theresa Mine, Turda Salt Mine

Photo credits alinaturda.eu

Head after lunch to the beautiful village of Malancrav where they can run around free and discover rural life. The fortified church and the idyllic surrounding give you something to look forward to as well.

Day 7: Cool down in Malancrav

Spend the night in Malancrav

Take a day to do nothing and relax. Book a guest house with a large yard and enjoy the peace until your kids wake up.

Malancrav Fortified Church

Day 8: Sighisoara and Rupea Fortress

Driving distance: 145 km / Spend the night in Brasov

This is the longest day of this family road trip in Romania. Start the day early and drive to nearby Sighisoara . The car-free medieval Old Town is perfect for family walks unless you must push a stroller around. Take your kids up in the Clock Tower and on the Scholars’ Stairs.

Drive to Brasov after lunch and stop to visit Rupea Fortress on the way unless they’re already asleep from all the walking.

2. Road trip in Romania with short hikes across the Carpathians

Brasov – Varghis Gorges – Piatra Craiului Mountains – Fagaras Mountains – Balea Lake – Brasov

Duration: 8 days / Distance: around 590 km

Perfect for families with active kids, at least 4-year-old of age.

This road trip combines easy day hikes in the Carpathians with some of the fun activities presented in the previous itinerary. It’s a great choice for active families who enjoy their time in nature. Be sure to buy a map, check the weather conditions, and pack enough food and water before each hike.

Day 1: Hike in Varghis Gorges

Discover one of the most beautiful hiking routes in Romania, set across the scenic Varghisului Gorges. The suspended bridges, the caves, and the panoramas are the main attractions.

It takes around four hours to do the full round trip, more with small kids, but there are no difficult parts to worry about unless your kids are daredevils who want to jump in the water no matter how shallow or deep.

Find more information on this hike on Muntii Nostri

Day 2: Dino Park, Rasnov Fortress, and Valea Cetatii Cave

Driving distance: 40 km /Spend the night in Brasov

Check Day 1 from the first road trip in Romania itinerary.

Valea Cetatii Cave

Photo credits pestera-valeacetatii.ro

Day 3: The Bear Sanctuary and Zarnesti Gorges

Driving distance: 70 km / Spend the night in Zarnesti

Check Day 2 from the previous itinerary.

Bears in the pool, Zarnesti Bear Sanctuary

Photo credits millionsoffriends.org

Day 4: Hike in Piatra Craiului Mountains

Spend the night in Zarnesti, Magura, or Pestera

You have many hiking routes to choose from in Piatra Craiului Mountains . Pick the right one depending on your children’s age and, of course, the weather. Book a nearby accommodation.

Check the detailed itineraries on Muntii Nostri

Pestera, Piatra Craiului National Park

Day 5: Porumbacu de Sus

Driving distance: 105 km / Spend the night in Porumbacu de Sus

Drive to Porumbacu de Sus and spend the day relaxing. You can walk around the village to admire old houses and see the great views of the Fagaras Mountains.

Day 6: Hike in Fagaras Mountains

Driving distance: 15 km / Spend the night in Porumbacu de Sus or Negoiu Hut

Enjoy one of the few easy hikes in the Fagaras , from Porumbacu de Sus to Negoiu Hut (1,550 meters), following the blue triangle route. To make the most of your time, try to leave the car as close as possible to the stone quarry. The forest road is very bumpy, but it’s worth it and you won’t risk your kids getting too bored before the actual hike.

Take a short detour to admire Serbota Waterfall , one of the most beautiful in the Carpathians. If the hike up is too much, roughly around hours for an adult, book in time a room at Negoiu Hut and descend the next day.

Day 7: Hike from Balea Lake and the Transfagarasan

Driving distance: 100 km / Spend the night in Porumbacu de Sus

Drive on the high-altitude Transfagarasan, from Cartisoara to Balea Lake. You can take a short walk around the glacial lake, or you can escape the summer crowds with a short hike from Balea (2,034 meters) to Capra Lake (2,238 meters). It takes roughly one hour for a healthy adult to reach this lake, more with kids because of the steep terrain.

Capra Lake, Fagaras Mountains

Don’t hesitate to take this route. With a bit of patience and attention, you’ll enjoy together with your children the great alpine landscape of the Fagaras.

Check the hike on Muntii Nostri

Day 8: Back to Brasov

Driving distance: 115 km / Spend the night in Brasov

Drive back to Brasov. If you still have the energy, don’t miss a visit to the ruins of Carta Abbey and Fagaras Fortress.

Discover more interesting ideas for your road trips in Romania.

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Transfagarasan Road Trip: Complete Guide & Itinerary

Last updated on August 29th, 2022 at 11:36 am

If you’re planning your very own Transfagarasan road trip, this is the only guide you’ll ever need to read.

Romania’s stunning countryside, fairytale-like castles and fascinating recent history were among the main reasons we wanted to visit the country. However, there was yet another one. We desperately wanted to drive one of the world’s most scenic routes: the Transfagarasan Highway.

Therefore, in an Inception-like kind of way, we decided to plan a short Transfagarasan road trip as part of our longer Romania road trip . Planning our Transfagarasan experience, though, was not the easiest of tasks. This is why we decided to put together this useful guide. This way you can keep everything you need to know in one place.

Some of the links in this article are affiliate ones. This means that if you click through them to make a purchase, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. For more information, visit our  Disclosure page .

This guide is useful for all of you who plan to rent a car and enjoy the Transfagarasan Highway at your own pace, just like we did. However, even if driving isn’t an option, you still shouldn’t miss out on the Transfagarasan experience. You can book this day trip from Bucharest if you’re staying in the Romanian capital or this one from Sibiu , which is where we started our Transfagarasan road trip from.

Choose among the best car rental deals with free cancellation!

Transfagarasan Highway: Past and present

Apart from its undeniable beauty, the Transfagarasan Road is of great historical significance as well. Constructed between 1970 and 1974, the Transfagarasan Highway was Ceausescu’s way of ensuring a safe passage through the Fagaras Mountains in case of an invasion by the Soviets. Six million kilos of dynamite and at least 40 dead workers later, Romania’s leader had his very own secret passageway.

Learn more about Romania under Ceausescu here!

Nowadays, deprived of its military importance, the Transfagarasan Road is among Romania’s main attractions. It offers a unique driving experience through the scenery of unsurpassed, almost unreal, beauty. The scenic route reached its height of popularity in 2009 when the British TV show Top Gear proclaimed that the Transfagarasan is the best road in the world. Ever since then, road trip enthusiasts and nature lovers from all over the world alike pay tribute to the Transfagarasan Highway.

List of top things to see along the Transfagarasan Road

It goes without saying that the top attraction along this scenic route is the road itself. We are talking about a high-altitude road which winds its way through a landscape of unfathomable beauty. However, there are also some essential stops along the way.

Therefore, you need to make sure you’ll have plenty of time to check them all out. Here’s a list of the absolutely necessary stops, either long or short, you should make during your Transfagarasan road trip:

• Balea Waterfall

Capra Tunnel

• Vidraru Dam

Poenari Citadel

How to plan your Transfagarasan road trip: Top tips

So, you decided to drive this amazing route yourselves. That’s great! Before you jump into the car and start driving though, there are a few things you should know that will help you plan the perfect Transfagarasan road trip of your own. Assuming that you already have the basics covered, renting a car for instance and all, it’s time to cut to the chase.

• The Transfagarasan Road (National Road DN 7C) begins in Cartisoara and ends in Bascov. It covers a total length of about 150 km (3,5-4h without stops). However, the interesting part is roughly between Cartisoara and Curtea de Arges (120 km/3h).
• The most spectacular part of the road, which is between Balea Waterfall and an area called Piscu Negru, is closed from November 1st to June 30th each year due to dangerous weather conditions. Sometimes, dates can change slightly so make sure to check out the Transfagarasan Road status on this website before planning your Transfagarasan road trip.
• Although the actual driving time is between 3 and 4 hours, it will take you at least 6 to 7 hours to drive the Transfagarasan Road from start to end. This is because you will be making many stops along the way in order to admire the beauty surrounding you or get a refreshment at one of the numerous kiosks on the route. Therefore, make sure to plan a full-day trip so as to leisurely take in the beauty of this scenic route. Better still, if your schedule allows it, overnight somewhere along the way and spend two days on the Transfagarasan Road.
• It doesn’t matter whether you choose to drive the Transfagarasan from North to South or vice versa. However, from our experience, perhaps it’s slightly better to start from the North. You see, Balea Waterfall and Balea Lake, which are closer to the northern end of the road, can get extremely foggy. So, it’s better to encounter this bummer in the beginning and then enjoy the rest of the route rather than let this disappointment await you at the end of your trip. More on the fog fail further down.
• Whether you start from the North or the South, make sure you spend the previous night somewhere near your starting point so as to hit the road as early in the morning as possible. Remember, the full length of the Transfagarasan Road is open for just four months each year. Therefore, it tends to get pretty crowded, especially at weekends.
• We’re pretty sure you’ve read online that it is a challenging driving experience, suitable for only the most confident of drivers. Well, don’t get discouraged. Sure, you need to be extra careful because there are continuous S-curves and hairpin turns. However, the road is in excellent condition and there are many areas to pull over. Also, keep in mind, that it is a road suited for slow driving (40 km/h on average). Therefore, (usually and ideally) there are no trucks or hasty drivers. That said, if you’ve never driven on a mountain, rather narrow, road before in your life, probably you should be even more careful. Moreover, we’d like to point out that probably the route’s biggest problem is the fog. It can get inconceivably thick. But, generally, there is nothing to be afraid of. Trust us, we have seen way scarier roads on the Greek Islands and the Greek countryside in general.
• Even if you plan to drive the Transfagarasan Road in the heart of the summer or there is a heatwave in Bucharest, don’t be fooled. You need to pack a light jacket, preferably a waterproof one, as the entire route is at a very high altitude. Combine this with the ever-present fog and you can imagine how chilly it can get.
• Once you are certain that you are on the DN 7C National Road, there is no way to get lost. So, listen to neither your GPS nor Google Maps. They will both urge you to turn back and follow a different route towards your destination. As long as you have checked that the Transfagarasan Road is open, ignore the navigation sirens and drive on.

Driving the Transfagarasan: Our itinerary (Sibiu to Bucharest via Transfagarasan)

Sibiu to balea waterfall.

We had planned to stay in Sibiu the night before driving the Transfagarasan so as to enter the road from its northern end near Cartisoara. We can’t even begin to describe how much we were looking forward to the day we would finally set off for our Transfagarasan road trip.

However, we had woken up to a grey and super cloudy day and we didn’t like it one bit. As soon as we entered the DN 7C, we could see the high mountains ahead in the distance covered in fog. This was bad news. Really bad. Anyway, soon we were driving along the part of the Transfagarasan Highway that is covered by tall trees and the stunning scenery around us wouldn’t let us sulk. For a while.

Traditionally, the first stop for those who begin their Transfagarasan road trip from the North is the area around Balea Waterfall. It’s also the point as far as which you can drive all year long as the road closes from that point onwards. You will know you’ve reached Balea Waterfall when you see many cars parked and various stalls selling from snacks and souvenirs to raincoats and hot drinks.

The cable car that connects Balea Waterfall to Balea Lake (an alternative way to get to the highest point on the Transfagarasan Road all year long) starts from somewhere there too. We say somewhere because there was no way of knowing where exactly. The fog had thickened so much by that point that we couldn’t see a thing.

Similarly, we could hear the waterfall but we don’t know if we would actually see it had the weather been better. To make matters worse, this was just the beginning of one of the biggest epic fails we have experienced during our travels.

Spending time in Sibiu? Read our Sibiu travel guide here!

Not yet entirely disheartened (as we could hardly imagine the degree to which the fog would affect our trip) and with two brand new raincoats in our possession, we jumped in the car and resumed our drive. Our next stop would be Balea Lake. This is a spectacular glacier lake situated at the highest point along the Transfagarasan Highway at an altitude of 2042 metres.

At this point, you would expect us to describe the route from the waterfall to the lake. Sadly, we are unable to do so. We have no idea if the road was scary, stunning or whatever. The reason is that we couldn’t see a bloody thing. Katerina heroically drove all the way to Balea Lake seeing no farther than a mere 100 cm ahead.

It was only when the waterfalls were literally by the side of the road that we could spot them. Then we would pull over for a couple of shots. However, this only made matters worse as we imagined how much beauty lay around us and there we were, unable to see beyond our noses. Literally.

When we parked the car to walk to Balea Lake, the cruel reality hit us hard. We wouldn’t get to see the glacier lake after all. We started walking towards the lake instinctively rather than knowing for sure that we were headed the right way. Never in our lives had we experienced such thick fog before.

To be honest, we didn’t even know it can get SO thick. At some point, we were so close to the lake we could have easily fallen inside. Only then did we get a glimpse of the water. The part that was right below our noses, that is. I silently cried at that moment. Having planned our Transfagarasan road trip to perfection only to miss out on its, reputedly, top highlight got the better of me.

Disappointed beyond words, we stepped inside the lake café. That means that we were ON the lake but STILL couldn’t see it. Apparently, the café had neither tea nor chocolate, just plain coffee, which neither of us drinks. Grumpy as hell, we left the café without ordering and headed back to the car. We had a long drive ahead of us and, as we thought, the fog would make it a challenging and dull one.

If driving isn’t an option, it doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t experience the Transfagarasan Highway. This tour will take you from Sibiu to the Balea Lake area in the most hassle-free way.

Capra Tunnel to Vidraru Dam & Poenari Citadel

In order to proceed from Balea Lake to the southern part of the Transfagarasan road, one needs to cross Capra Tunnel. The latter is often referred to as Balea Tunnel. However, it actually gets its name from nearby Capra Lake, yet another glacier lake in the area (which we didn’t see either of course).

The longest tunnel in Romania (887 m) is utterly impressive. It goes without saying that it was also covered in fog. That said, driving along its rocky walls was an unforgettable, surreal experience in a spooky kind of way.

We had read somewhere online that, once you cross Capra Tunnel, the weather suddenly changes and there is no more fog. Yet, at that point, it would be easier for us to believe that a family of Yetis were spending their summer vacation in the Romanian mountains than to let ourselves get carried away by the unrealistic hope that 1km down the road the sky would be clear again. Yet it was. It actually was.

Dear friends, it’s true. Capra Tunnel must be a time travel machine of sorts. It took our eyes a couple of seconds to adjust to actually seeing again. When they did, oh God, the beauty they beheld!

The Transfagarasan Highway was spreading to our right in all its glory. Every two hundred metres or so we would get off the car, cameras in hand, laughing and jumping like crazy. Our Transfagarasan road trip was not entirely ruined after all.

Officially, our next stop would be Vidraru Dam. Yet we made several stops along the way to admire one of the most remarkable natural landscapes we have seen to this day. Magnificent waterfalls, sheep grazing on almost vertical green slopes and, of course, the road itself composed a dreamlike picture that is hard to put into words.

Vidraru Dam & Lake

Eventually, we arrived at the impressive Vidraru Dam. The latter was completed in 1966 in order to produce hydroelectricity. It is an engineering masterpiece with a fascinating secret.

The surrounding mountains are home to a lot of explosives which have been placed there as a safety precaution. If the dam cracks, the explosion from the hidden dynamite around it will cause rocks to fall off. This will create a substitute dam of sorts which will prevent nearby towns from flooding.

We walked from one end of the dam to the other so as to see the views from both sides. We also climbed a nearby viewing platform and caught some breathtaking views of the dam and the lake.

Equally impressive is the statue of Prometheus, the Greek mythology hero who stole fire from the gods so as to hand it over to people. The statue overlooking the dam resembles a Marvel superhero and it’s totally amazing. Other than walking around the dam, one can also go on a boat ride on the artificial Vidraru Lake during the summer months.

Poenari Citadel rather than Bran is the actual Dracula Castle. Mostly in ruins, Poenari Castle is built atop a high hill and can be seen from the Transfagarasan Road. You can only visit the castle in the summer. Keep in mind that a visit is possible only in the presence of local forest rangers and it involves climbing 1462 to get to the top. As far as we are concerned, we only admired it from a distance while driving along the Transfagarasan Highway.

Poenari is the real Dracula castle but Bran has all the charm. Read all you need to know about Bran Castle here!

Overnight at Bucsenesti and exiting the DN 7C

Although fantastic, our day was also an exhausting one. We’d thought it would be so. Therefore, we had made arrangements to spend the night at a guesthouse in Bucsenesti rather than drive an additional 2,5h to get to Bucharest. We would advise you to do the same.

Just pick one of many guesthouses in the area and resume your drive the following day. We stayed at Heaven Guesthouse and we loved it. For just 35€/night we stayed in a modern, super comfortable and spotlessly clean room in a guesthouse with a garden and amazing staff.

Book your room at Heaven Guesthouse here!

We had dinner at nearby Casa Lazaroiu. The latter features a restaurant and rooms in a serene scenery complete with a private lake and a pool. We couldn’t have ended our day in a more relaxed and peaceful way.

Looking for an alternative type of accommodation close to nature? Book your room at Casa Lazaroiu here!

The following day we drove from Bucsenesti to Bascov, the town where the Transfagarasan Highway ends. There is nothing extraordinary about this final part of the route though. If we did it again, perhaps we would skip this final part and go all the way back just to marvel at all that beauty once more. After all, this would be the only way to make sure that we weren’t dreaming the first time around.

Here’s our ultimate Bucharest travel guide. Check it out here!

Our ultimate tip regarding your Transfagarasan road trip (or any other trip)

There is one final point we would like to make. No matter how well you plan your Transfagarasan road trip, there is one unpredictable factor that can mess things up. The weather.

So, even if you plan your trip down to the last detail, be prepared that you may not be able to enjoy it to the fullest in the end. In our case, the fog was the party crasher but this was a risk we were willing to take. That said, under no circumstances do we regret planning this road trip just because it wasn’t exactly as perfect as we expected it to be.

Travelling part-time has made us accept all the restrictions that come with it. In this case, since we had planned our Transfagarasan road trip for a very specific day, fog or not, there was no way we could change our plans. If you have enough time that allows you to change your plans and drive the Transfagarasan on a clear day, by all means, do so. But if you don’t, like we didn’t, do not worry much. Clear skies will literally be waiting for you on the other side of the tunnel.

At the end of the day, this is the biggest piece of advice we could ever give you. Do not postpone a trip because the time doesn’t feel right or for any other excuses you may come up with. Just go for it. Even if it’s not what you had always dreamt of, it will definitely be better than not taking the trip at all. And who knows? Maybe you’ll be back someday to live it to the fullest. We know we will.

Până ne vom întâlni din nou, Transfăgărășan!

Read here all our posts about Romania: – The Best Romania Road Trip: Our 8-day Itinerary & Travel Tips – 11 Amazing Things to do in Sibiu Romania – What to do in Sighisoara Romania in 24 hours – What to do in Brasov Romania in 2 days – Top 10 Transylvanian Castles – A Trip from Brasov to Bran Castle – Top Things to do in Bucharest: Our Essential Guide – Bucharest Walking Tour of Communism – Ceausescu Residence: A must-visit in Bucharest

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Our puglia road trip itinerary: 2 weeks in italy’s heel, the best romania road trip: our itinerary + top tips, 11 amazing things to do in sibiu romania, 10 comments.

Can’t wait to drive it very soon! 🙂 Thanks for all recommendations!!

Thanks for your comment! We’re glad you found our article helpful and we’re sure you’ll enjoy your trip to the Transfagarasan!

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I love your photos. Can’t wait to come back to Transfagarasan this summer.

Thanks so much! Let’s hope that we can all travel again soon!

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Thankyou for your detailed account of your holiday. currently planning a week in Romania and this was so helpful.

Hi! Thanks for your kind words, we hope you’ll have an amazing time in Romania!

Hey there! If i can help you with more tips regarding your trip to Romania, please let me know! 🙂

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Where to Go on a Balkan Road Trip: 20 Epic Self-Drive Itineraries

Love road trips? The Balkans is one of the best regions in Europe for self-driving. This post brings together 20 tried-and-tested Balkans road trip itineraries to help you plan the perfect 3-14 day adventure.

Short distances, safe roads and affordable car rentals – the Balkans is a great place for a road trip.

With your own wheels, you can cover a whole country in a couple of days. In a week or more, you can fit in a cross-border itinerary to get a taste for the region’s diversity.

Mountains, lakes, dynamic cities, UNESCO sites and some of the best beaches in Europe – all for a fraction of the cost, and with a fraction of the crowds. The driving style in the Balkans takes some getting used to, but that’s all part of the experience!

This guide will take you through the very best tried-and-tested Balkans road trip itineraries to help you plan your own. I’ve also included lots of tips and tricks for driving in the Balkans, rental car advice, and two route maps.

Please note: This post contains affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission if you make a purchase by clicking a link (at no extra cost to you). Learn more.

Renting a car in the Balkans

There are two booking platforms I personally recommend for renting a car in the Balkans.

The first is Local Rent . This website aggregates local agents instead of big-ticket rental companies, meaning you can often find cars for much lower prices (from as little as 12 Euros/day in some countries!). Insurance often comes included in the base rate and better still, most cars do not require a deposit or credit card.

Currently, Local Rent is available in Bulgaria, Montenegro, Greece and Turkey .

→ Check prices on the Local Rent website .

For the other Balkan countries, I highly recommend using Discover Cars . This comparison website allows you to compare rentals from both international and local agents, and to pre-purchase comprehensive insurance.

→ Visit Discover Cars and plug in your dates to see what’s available .

3 quick Balkans road trip tips

You need prior permission to cross borders.

If you’re driving around the Balkans in a rental car and you plan on crossing international borders, it’s essential to inform the rental company ahead of time . Give them plenty of advance notice so they can organise a Green Card for you.

Some agencies put restrictions on which borders you can cross in a rental – many won’t allow you to drive into Kosovo, for example – so be sure to check this before you start planning your route.

Rental companies with offices across the region will usually allow you to return your car in a different country for an extra fee.

You need a Green Card

A Green Card is essentially a travel document that verifies that your car is insured . Without one, you might be asked to purchase local insurance instead.

Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Greece and Turkey all require a Green Card. Green Cards are not valid in Kosovo, so every driver has to purchase separate insurance at the border. This costs around 15 Euros for a fortnight of coverage.

Look out for vignettes & tolls

While Montenegro has only one toll road that can easily be avoided, Serbia for example has several toll roads with relatively high fees.

Other countries in the Balkans impose a blanket vignette or ‘road tax’ for using the highways rather than separate tolls. Bulgaria, Romania and Slovenia all charge vignettes of between 3-15 Euros per week.

If you rent your car from within one of these countries, the cost will be rolled into the rental price. If you’re entering overaland, you can either pre-purchase an e-vignette online or buy it from a petrol station when you arrive. (Note that you need the car registration details to register online.)

• Albania: See a list of toll roads here – no vignette
• Bosnia: See a list of toll roads here – no vignette
• Bulgaria: Purchase an e-vignette here
• Croatia: See a list of toll roads here – no vignette
• Greece: See a list of toll roads here – no vignette
• Kosovo: No toll roads
• Montenegro: Only one toll tunnel (Sozina tunnel, €2.5) – no vignette
• North Macedonia: See a list of toll roads here – no vignette
• Romania: Purchase an e-vignette for Romania here
• Slovenia: See point-of-sale locations for the e-vignette here
• Turkey: See a list of toll roads here (sticker or card required) – no vignette

Balkan road trip: Suggested itineraries

Here are 20 of the very best Balkan road trip itineraries, tried and tested by me and other travel experts.

1. Montenegro road trip: Lake Skadar & The Bay of Kotor (5-7 days)

• Duration: 5-7 days
• Distance covered: 280km (approx. 5 hours of driving)
• Highlights: Kotor Old Town , Perast, Skadar Lake boat trip, Lovcen National Park

Montenegro is the perfect place for a Balkan road trip. This Montenegro road trip itinerary concentrates on the one and only Bay of Kotor, with a stopover at Skadar Lake plus a few nights on Montenegro’s southern coast.

The first day of driving from Podgorica, Montenegro’s capital, to the coast takes you over one of the most magnificent stretches of road anywhere in the region: the land bridge over Skadar Lake. This is the same route the famous Belgrade to Bar train takes. Spend a night in Virpazar where you can enjoy a boat trip on the marshy lake and do birdwatching. Or, continue straight to Petrovac, a small coastal settlement with a fortress.

Just 10km further up the coast, Sveti Stefan is quieter than other beach towns and makes for an ideal place to base yourself for a few nights. From here, you can day trip to Budva. Don’t miss the Church of St. Sava for the best views of the private island.

Cut briefly inland to reach Boka Kotorska, one of the most beautiful parts of the country . The Bay is dotted with cities and towns of various sizes – Tivat, Kotor, Perast and Herceg Novi are all worth spending a day in. In Kotor, hike to the castle and get lost in the old town. Perast is smaller and less touristy than Kotor, making it my favourite spot on the Bay. Don’t miss a boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks, one of the most unique churches in the Balkans.

If you need a break from the coast, it’s a quick drive to Lovcen National Park and the iconic Petar Petrovic Njegos Mausoleum. From Herceg Novi, loop back to Podgorica, passing through Niksic and stopping off at Ostrog Monastery.

Check out my top tips for a successful road trip in Montenegro and my general travel tips for Montenegro .

2. Northern Croatia road trip: Istrian Peninsula (7 days)

Recommended by Maggie, The World Was Here First

• Duration: 7 days
• Distance covered: 200km (approx. 3 hours of driving)
• Highlights: Pula Amphitheatre, Istrian wineries, Rovinj old town

One of the best places in the Balkans to go for a road trip is the gorgeous Istria region of Croatia . As one of the gastronomic centres of Croatia, Istria is an excellent place for food lovers and sun-seekers alike.

If you want to get the most out of Istria, plan to spend at least one week exploring this lovely region. This will allow you to see the beautiful coastal cities of ‘Blue Istria’ as well as explore the hill towns and culinary scene of ‘Green Istria’.

The easiest place to begin a road trip in Istria is in the biggest city, Pula. Famous for its imposing Roman Amphitheatre, it’s also worth taking the time to visit Pula’s bustling central market, learn about oil production at the House of Istrian Olive Oil, or take a day trip to the Brijuni Islands.

Don’t have a car? Here’s how to travel between Rovinj and Pula by bus.

From Pula, head north to the coastal town of Umag. This charming seaside village is pleasant to stroll through and, though it doesn’t have a lot to offer in terms of tourist sites, it makes an excellent base to explore some other parts of the region. 

From Umag, you can visit some of Istria’s best wineries or take a day trip to the beautiful hill towns Motovun, Buje, or Groznjan. Here, you can feast on truffle-laden dishes while enjoying all the charms of a Tuscan hill town with a fraction of the crowds. You can also drive down the coast and visit the beautiful old towns of Porec or Novigrad and take in the stunning Lim Fjord.

Finally, no trip to Istria is complete without a stop in Rovinj. The Old Town is perfectly preserved and the pedestrianised streets will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Though Rovinj can get very crowded in the summer months, it still retains its charm and is very much worth exploring.

Related: 8 beautiful places to visit in Croatian Istria .

3. Croatia & Bosnia and Herzegovina road trip: Split to Sarajevo via Mostar (10 days)

Recommended by Coni, Experiencing the Globe

• Duration: 10 days
• Distance covered: 315km (approx. 5 hours of driving)
• Highlights: Waterfalls, Pocitelj open-air museum, Mostar bridge, Sarajevo Old Bazaar

This Balkan road trip is a dream because it includes all the main highlights of the region: turquoise beaches, Roman and medieval towns, stunning nature, and interesting history. I’d recommend setting aside 10 days to fully enjoy it.

Start in Split, Croatia, where you can explore Diocletian’s palace (a 1700-year-old fortress where the Roman Emperor lived), enjoy the forest and the beaches of Marjan Park, and visit a few art museums (don’t miss the Mestrovic Gallery).

From Split, you can add on a few day  trips. My recommendation is to visit medieval Trogir, Krka waterfalls , and at least one of the islands (there are island hopping tours to cover more in less time).

After Split, drive along the coast to Croatia’s capital of adventure, Omis, where you can have fun doing zip-lining, rafting or rock climbing.

After a few days on the Adriatic coast, head to Bosnia and Herzegovina. Your first stop will be at Kravica Waterfalls. Spend a few hours wandering around and go for a quick swim in the cold water before moving on to Pocitelj. This is the first indication that you’re entering a Muslim country. Pocitelj village is an open-air museum: medieval towers and mosques set in a cliff overlooking the Neretva river.

Related: My guide to exploring Pocitelj .

The next stop is Blagaj, where a historical tekija (a Dervish monastery) is set in a cliff near a spring of the Buna river.

Stay at least a day in Mostar , the best place to learn about the history of BiH, especially the Yugoslav wars. The contrast between western Croatia and eastern Bosnia is really palpable here. The river divides the town in two different worlds.

The last stop is Sarajevo , Bosnia and Herzegovina’s capital. Walk around town to discover layers of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian and socialist history.

4. Short Romania road trip: Bucharest Loop (7-10 days)

Recommended by Victor, Victor’s Travels

• Duration: 7-10 days
• Distance covered: 670km (approx. 10 hours of driving)
• Highlights: UNESCO-Listed Sighisoara, Peles Castle, Bran Castle, Brasov

Romania is one of those countries you can easily underestimate due to the lack of tourist attractions. Sure, you have the Transylvanian region with Dracula’s castle, but the country has a lot more to offer!

Our Romania road trip started in Bucharest, Romania’s capital, where we rented a small car for about 50 Euros for a little over a week. When booking in advance, I definitely recommend getting the ‘worry-free’ option with full coverage, as you will encounter potholes and loose gravel on many of Romania’s roads.

Our first stop was Sibiu, a charming little city about 4 hours’ drive from Bucharest, with little bakeries, orthodox churches, and colourful buildings.

The next brief stop was the city of Sighisoara, which has a UNESCO-Listed walled old town. You can almost hear the buildings creak and crumble, most of them being at least 300 years old.

More Transylvania goodness: My guide to the walled city of Sighisoara .

Brasov was next, with its many hip cafe’s, excellent (and cheap!) restaurants, and friendly locals. I recommend hiking up to the Hollywood-like ‘Brasov’ sign for a breathtaking view of the city.

Romania’s famous castles were next on our itinerary. We decided to stop only briefly at Bran Castle (the famous Dracula’s castle) for a quick walk around the exterior. Instead, we drove another hour to check out Peles Castle , which is considered to be one of the most stunning castles in Europe. The tour is interesting too, as every room has a completely different interior.

Sinaia was our last stop before heading back to Bucharest. This ski-resort town was nice and quiet, as we did the trip at the end of March: too late for ski season, too early for hiking season. The beautiful mountains of Bucegi Natural Park still had lots of snow.

5. North Macedonia road trip: Skopje to Ohrid (5-7 days)

• Distance covered: 600km (approx. 9 hours of driving)
• Highlights: Skopje Old Bazaar, Tetovo Mosque, Lake Ohrid, Krushevo

Another classic Balkan road trip, the Skopje loop route in North Macedonia covers all the country’s must-sees. After a few days in capital observing the contrasts between Skopje’s sculpture-dotted city centre and the old Ottoman-era bazaar, drive west to the small town of Tetovo, home to one of the most stunning mosques in the Balkans region.

Head south, Skirting Mavrovo National Park, to reach Lake Ohrid. Ohrid is a great base for exploring the monasteries and churches around the lake and wineries and villages further inland. Make a stop in Bitola to visit the ruins of Heraclea Lyncestis, an ancient Greek/Roman city, before heading into the hills.

A few days in charming Krushevo , my favourite place in North Macedonia, will recharge your spirits. Wander the cobbled streets, eat at the local cafes, and be sure to visit some of the craftspeople in town.

Return to Skopje via Prilep with an option to stop over in Veles on the way back.

Related: The perfect North Macedonia itinerary by bus .

6. Bulgaria road trip: Ruse to Smolyan (7-10 days)

Recommended by Daniela, Ipanema Travels

• Distance covered: 900km (approx. 15 hours of driving)
• Highlights: Veliko Tarnovo, Rhodope Mountains, Plovdiv

This road trip takes you from north to south visiting some of the most beautiful places in Bulgaria, including two UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The whole trip is a bit over 900km. If you travel slowly, taking the time to see everything along the way, you can easily spend a whole week or more on the road.

The trip starts in Ruse on the Danube River. On the next day, continue via the Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo (a UNESCO Site) and Nikopolis ad Istrum (an ancient Roman city) to Veliko Tarnovo . 

Veliko Tarnovo is perhaps one of the most beautiful cities in Bulgaria, being the old capital of the country in the period 1185-1396.  Spend a whole day in Veliko Tarnovo, including a detour to the nearby village of Arbanasi.

From Veliko Tarnovo, the road trip continues to Kazanlak, crossing the Balkan Mountains and the Shipka Pass. Stop at Shipka Pass and climb to the top of the Monument to Freedom for some amazing views.

Afterwards, continue to Kanzanlak stopping at Shipka Memorial Church on the way. Spend the evening in Kazanlak and visit the famous Thracian Tomb (another UNESCO World Heritage Site) the next morning. In the afternoon head to Plovdiv – another contender for the crown of the most beautiful city in Bulgaria.

After Plovid, head further south to Smolyan – a lovely city in the heart of the Rhodope Mountains – stopping at Pamporovo, a famous ski resort, on the way. While you’re there, take the chair lift to Snezhanka Peak or climb the Snezhanka TV tower for breathtaking views. Stay the night in Smolyan and the next day, take a mini road trip to the nearby authentic village of Shiroka Luka and the stunning Trigrad Gorge leading to the Yagodinska Cave.

You can start and end this trip in Sofia, travelling to Ruse on the first day and back to Sofia on last day via Devin and Plovdiv. Or, you can make it a longer Balkan road trip by starting in Romania and continuing south to Greece.

7. Albania road trip: The Albanian Riviera (4-7 days)

Recommended by Rohan and Max, Travels of a Bookpacker

• Duration: 4-7 days
• Distance covered: 460km (approx. 8 hours of driving)
• Highlights: Albania’s beaches

If you’re into beaches, you can’t go past the fantastically scenic route stretching along the coast of Albania. The road is easy to drive and provides lots of great places to stop for a swim or detour off to see the sights inland.

We travelled this route over three weeks, taking our time to relax and enjoy the beaches. Realistically, you could drive the Albanian coast in a few days if you were pressed for time.

Start your drive from the capital, Tirana , and head straight out to the beach town of Durres. From there, follow the highway south and turn off to the beach whenever you fancy! Some of the best beaches are located at Vlores, Himare and Dhermi. The hidden beach at Gjipe is well worth a visit but requires a 4×4 or a 20 minute walk to reach.

Alternative Albania: Check out my 2-week road trip itinerary for the coast and interior.

Finally, continue down the coast to Sarande, making an inland detour to the Blue Eye . You can either finish your road trip there, continue south to Greece , or loop back up through Gjirokaster to get back to Tirana.

There are guest houses, hotels and even a few hostels in most beach towns. By far, the best experience is wild camping on the coast of Albania . There are so many amazing spots to pull up with your campervan (or tent at some of them) and enjoy beach views from your back door. The Italian influence, felt from just across the sea, is evident in the availability of great pizza and gelato. You’ll also find a great range of affordable restaurants selling fresh seafood.

Related: An easy 2-week Albania itinerary by bus .

8. Serbia road trip: Nis to Subotica (3-5 days)

Recommended by Allison, Sofia Adventures

• Duration: 3-5 days
• Distance covered: 430km (approx. 6 hours of driving)
• Highlights: Belgrade, Novi Sad, wineries, Art Nouveau architecture in Subotica

If you’re planning a road trip through the Balkans, don’t discount Serbia! This beautiful Balkan country often gets the short end of the stick, with people only spending a couple of days in Belgrade. But Serbia deserves a lot more than that!

While Western Serbia is full of beautiful natural wonders like the Drina River and Tara National Park, this road trip in Serbia focuses on four important Serbian cities that are all easily connected by the best highway in the country, making it an easy route.

Start in Nis, the largest city in southern Serbia. Nis is a wonder for history lovers. You should visit the Skull Tower, a ghastly relic of the Ottoman occupation, and Nis Fortress, as well as the Crveni Krst (Red Cross) Concentration Camp Museum. There is a large spomenik dedicated to those who died in Nis during World War II on Mount Burbanj. If you visit these sites, please do so respectfully.

After Nis, head north to Belgrade. There’s so much to do in Belgrade that it practically defies belief, but I suggest taking a communist tour, exploring the night life, checking out the food and street art scene, going for a river cruise on the Sava and Danube, and visiting Kalemegdan Fortress. Belgrade has a ton of traffic and parking can be a bit of a nightmare, so I suggest picking a  place to stay in Belgrade  that is outside the downtown area: Vracar, Novi Beograd, and Zemun are all fantastic neighborhoods.

Finally, head up to Vojvodina, an autonomous region of Serbia which used to be part of the Austro-Hungarian empire. Novi Sad should be your first port of call here, although a side trip to nearby Sremski Karlovci to try some of the delicious Fruska Gora wineries would be a wonderful addition.

Novi Sad is Serbia’s beautiful second city with uniquely beautiful architecture and a funky vibe. There are wonderful cafes and restaurants to enjoy, candy-coloured architecture everywhere you look, and the gorgeous Petrovaradin Fortress which is definitely a can’t-miss.

Find your way around Serbia’s second city with my Novi Sad city guide.

End your Serbia trip in Subotica. This stunning Art Nouveau city is most famous for the gorgeous Raichle Palace, which is easily the most beautiful building in all of Serbia. It’s now been converted into a museum.

The main square with the town hall, library, and the most beautiful McDonalds I’ve ever seen (no joke), is also a must visit, and be sure to also stop by the synagogue and Subotica Cathedral, which is famous for a large crack in the middle of the cathedral!

9. Kosovo, Albania & Montenegro road trip: Prizren to Shkoder via Ulcinj (3-7 days)

Recommended by Erika, Erika’s Travelventures

• Duration: 3-7 days
• Distance covered: 230km (approx. 5 hours of driving)
• Highlights: Prizren, the Accursed Mountains, beaches around Ulcinj

In order to get a taste of just how diverse this conglomerate of countries is, try a Balkan road trip from Prizren, Kosovo, to Shkoder, Albania, and Ulcinj, Montenegro. This route takes you from a sleepy Islamic town to a mountainous Albanian one, then finally to a beachy Montenegrin destination.

You can do this road trip in a minimum of three days, that’s how close each of the towns are. However, I recommend taking it slow and spending maybe two days in each place. Spend three days in Shkoder if you want to make a day trip to the mountain village of Theth.

First stop, Prizren, Kosovo. Kosovo is a tiny country that should not be skipped on any Balkan road trip because of how culturally and historically unique it is. Prizren in southern Kosovo is a gem of a town and is a more cultural version of Kosovo’s capital, Pristina.

Prizren is home to a large fortress located atop a hill – the perfect sunrise or sunset spot. There is an old bazaar area that will transport you to the heart of any Islamic country, if the sound of the central mosque’s call to prayer hasn’t done so already.

From Prizren, it’s about a 30-minute drive to the Albanian border, then 2.5 hours until Shkoder.

Shkoder is the economic and political centre of northern Albania and is close to some beautiful natural landscapes, including lakes and mountains. Take a tour or day trip drive to Theth, a tiny mountain village surrounded by impressive jagged mountains. Shkoder itself has many charming pedestrian pathways where you can relax on a cafe terrace or go for drinks at a quirky pub.

Stretch your legs: My tips for the Valbona to Theth hike.

From Shkoder, it’s no more than an hour of driving to Ulcinj, a quick hop over the Montenegrin border. Montenegro has endless towns along its coastline that are famous for their beaches. Ulcinj is no exception, although it is far less known.

Bask in the sun, go for a stroll under the palm trees, or explore the maze-like old town located at the top of a small hill. Find relaxation during the day, and go out for some dancing during the night at the many bars and clubs.

10. Slovenia road trip: Brda to Ljubljana (10 days)

Recommended by Karen, Local Holland

• Distance covered: 300km (approx. 4 hours of driving)
• Highlights: Predjama Castle, hiking in Triglav National Park, Lake Bohinj

Slovenia is the perfect spot for a Balkan road trip. In 10 days, we experienced the best western Slovenia has to offer. We started and ended near the Italian border to take advantage of affordable flights into Venice.

One of the unexpected highlights near the beginning of our trip was the stunning Brda region, which sits directly next to the Italian border. Here, you can enjoy local red and white wines in stunning hilltop towns such as Smartno na Pohorju.

If you’re a wine lover, it’s worth taking a day (or two) to explore the various wineries and learn about the unique history of this region. We also loved stopping off at small towns along the beautiful Soca River.

After exploring Brda, we drove down to Predjama to experience the stunning castle built in the mouth of a cave. The castle itself has an amazing history and some shocking features, so be sure to enter the cave! The next day, we enjoyed the beautiful Skocjanske caves, a less-crowded alternative to Postojna cave.

The next two days were spent exploring the beautiful Triglavski National Park and the stunning Tolmin Gorge. While driving up, I wondered if we were in Yosemite National Park in the US. The hiking here is first-class and Triglav is a popular day hike among Slovenians. I also loved exploring the picturesque Tolmin Gorge with its beautiful aquamarine water.

After some hiking, we rested up for a day of relaxation at Lake Bohinj, the little sister to Lake Bled – again without the crowds. It’s located at the foot of Triglav National Park, so the views are absolutely stunning. You can take a dip in the water or go SUPing. After a relaxing afternoon, we ended our evening with sunset at Lake Bled.

No car? Here’s how to travel to Bled from Ljubljana by bus.

Depending on how much time you have, you might want to give yourself several days in Ljubljana to experience one of Europe’s greenest capitals. Slovenia has a thriving experimental craft beer culture, so be sure to try a pint of the local brew. Throw in a side trip to the charming city of Skofja Loka to visit the castle.

Driving in Slovenia is fairy straightforward. The highways are very well maintained. Anyone who’s not used to hills should practice driving in manual. If you will be driving on smaller narrow roads, especially in the mountains, it’s best to avoid driving at night.

11. Transylvania road trip: Sibiu to Targu Mures (5-8 days)

Recommended by Corina, Another Milestone

• Duration: 5-8 days
• Distance covered: 760km (approx. 13 hours of driving)
• Highlights: Fortified churches, the Merry Cemetery, Turda Salt Mine

The classic tour of Transylvania includes the big cities of the region , some traditional villages, important natural attractions and landscapes that will amaze you. Five days are enough to see it all. Add an extra three days for Maramures and you will remember this holiday forever!

Start your trip in Sibiu with a long walk in the old town. The next day, go to Cluj Napoca, stopping on the way to see Alba Iulia, the white citadel, and to explore the salt mine amusement park in Turda.

Dedicate your third day to Cluj Napoca, the largest city in Transylvania, for its old town, modern restaurants and botanical garden. On day four, you can visit the wooden churches of Maramures and stop in Sighetu Marmatiei.

The next day, visit the main attractions around the area: The Merry Cemetery and a prison transformed in museum. Don’t leave Maramures without a ride on the mocanita , a steam train that takes you deep into the woods. In the evening, you can stop in a traditional village.

Coming back to Transylvania on your seventh day, visit Targu Mures, another medieval city. On the way back to Sibiu, spend your last day discovering the fortified churches of Transylvania, UNESCO Heritage sites Biertan and Valea Viilor.

12. Great Balkan Cities Road Trip: Zagreb to Belgrade & Sarajevo (10-14 days)

• Duration: 10-14 days
• Distance covered: 880km (approx. 12 hours of driving)
• Highlights: House of Flowers in Belgrade, Sargan Eight historic railroad, Bridge on the Drina , Sarajevo Old Bazaar

Perfect for urban explorers and modern history aficionados, this driving itinerary takes you to three of the best cities in the Balkans: Zagreb, Belgrade and Sarajevo. In between, you’ll be treated to a slew of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, several smaller cities and a couple of national parks.

Starting in Zagreb, Croatia’s capital, wander the twin neighbourhoods of Kaptol and Lower Town, popping into as many museums and quirky art galleries as you can. Walk the Green Horseshoe and be sure to spend an afternoon amongst the gravestones at Mirogoj Cemetery.

Say goodbye to the crowds heading west towards Croatia’s coast and set your sights eastward instead, driving through the beautiful and underrated Slavonia region. Osijek was once the largest city in Croatia; now it’s a relatively quiet and peaceful place with a beautiful old town and several monuments that commemorate the terrible conflicts of the 1990s. Pay your respects at the Monument to Croatian War Veterans and learn the incredible tale behind the ‘Red Fico’, then sit at a cafe on the River Drava to process it all.

Cross the border into Northern Serbia , stopping for a few nights in charming Novi Sad before continuing to the capital. There are dozens of hidden gems in the concrete jungle that is Belgrade: Don’t miss the TV Tower or the House of Flowers, a museum-mausoleum dedicated to Tito. Finish your time in Belgrade with an afternoon stroll through Zemun – a cute town within the city – or a bike ride through New Belgrade to admire the Brutalist architecture.

Head to the border region to hike in Tara National Park, using the town of Mokra Gora as a base. Here’s where you can hitch a ride on the Sargan Eight, a heritage narrow-gauge railway that’s been chugging through these mountains on and off since 1925. The city of Viesgrad and its iconic stone bridge lie just over the border in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Pause here to take in the sombre significance of the famous Bridge on the Drina .

Sarajevo, Bosnia’s lively capital, is just a short drive away. Compare and contrast its Old Bazaar with the Brutalist face of Belgrade and the classical European architecture of Zagreb – you’ve just ticked off three of the region’s great cities!

13. Turkey, Bulgaria & Greece Road Trip: Istanbul to Thessaloniki (10-14 days)

• Distance covered: 1,000km (approx. 16 hours of driving)
• Highlights: Istanbul, Bulgarian Revival Architecture in Plovdiv, Pyramids of Melnik, markets and street food in Thessaloniki

East meets West on this itinerary that traverses continents, taking you from the crossroads of Asia into the heart of Europe. Kick things off in the one and only Istanbul, a total Turkey icon . Three days is barely enough time to see the highlights: Prioritise the Grand Bazaar, Galata Tower , Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, but leave a few hours to get lost down the charming streets of Karaköy and Balat as well.

Follow in the footsteps of the Ottoman Empire’s finest as you trace north-east into Bulgaria, stopping to visit the mosque in Edirne along the way. Plovdiv might not have the same reputation as Istanbul, but it’s another of this region’s greatest cities (and one of Europe’s oldest continuously inhabited settlements). A few days here is ample time to admire the Bulgarian Revival Architecture .

Along the Greek border, visit the ski town of Smolyan, hike through arched bridges in Trigrad Gorge, and spend a few days crisscrossing the cobbled streets of Melnik, a beautiful town with Ottoman-style houses set against a rocky gorge. Hike through the Melnik Pyramids to see this unearthly landscape up close.

Final stop: Northern Greece. Serres has been a stopover point for traders throughout its history and is an important piece in this east-meets-west puzzle. Visit some of the numerous archaeological sites in the area before continuing down to Thessaloniki , Greece’s second-largest city.

There’s no better place to bring your road trip full circle than in the bustling markets of Thessaloniki – this is, after all, the birthplace of Kemal Ataturk, the founder of modern Turkey.

Hang up your keys here, or continue driving to Halkidiki or to Meteora and Athens , using these Greece road trip itinerary ideas for inspiration.

14. Black Sea Road Trip: Burgas to Constanta & the Danube Delta (5-7 days)

• Distance covered: 420km (approx. 7 hours of driving)
• Highlights: UNESCO-Listed Nessebar, Black Sea beaches, the casino at Constanta, boat trip on the Danube Delta

The best beaches in the Balkans might be on the Adriatic Coast, but that doesn’t mean you should overlook the Black Sea completely. The slice of shoreline split between Bulgaria and Romania offers both swimming beaches and the Danube Delta, Europe’s second-largest river delta wetland and a flora-and-fauna lover’s paradise. All that against the backdrop of the mythical Black Sea .

To tackle this part of the Balkans by road, it’s recommended to start in Burgas, Bulgaria. Spend a day dashing between sandy beaches and pockets of glorious architecture, visiting the Church of Saint Cyril and Methodius and the wonderful Ethnographic Museum.

A little further along the coast, the ever-charming Nessebar awaits. Nicknamed the ‘Pearl of the Black Sea’, the entire old city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with countless monuments to discover. More secluded coves and swimming beaches can be found off the road between Nessebar and Varna. After crossing into Romania, head to Constanta to see the much-photographed abandoned casino. It’s even more enigmatic in real life than the pictures would have you think.

Finally, the city of Tulcea, just shy of the Ukrainian border, is the jumping-off point for tours of the Danube Delta , a stunning landscape rich with nesting birds and rare fish.

15. Short Bulgaria road trip: Sofia to the Buzludzha (1-3 days)

Recommended by Stephanie, Sofia Adventures

• Duration: 1-3 days
• Distance covered: 500km (approx. 6 hours of driving)
• Highlights: Buzludha Monument, Shipka church

One of my favorite Balkan road trips is to rent a car and spend the day driving the five hours from Sofia to Buzludzha and back. While I usually make the drive there and return in one day, you can also choose to stretch this out into a two-day or three-day day road trip if you don’t want to tackle that much driving in one day.

Leaving from Sofia, the drive winds through the Central Balkan Mountains in the Central Balkan National Park, which has the distinction of being a Tentative UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You can plan your itinerary to include stops at several additional Communist Monuments. The mountains in this part of the country are dotted with them.

Make sure to give yourself enough time to visit Shipka, which is about thirty minutes from Buzludzha. The town’s gorgeous Russian Orthodox Church was built to serve the Russian troops who stayed behind after the Russians helped expel the Ottomans from Bulgaria.

The main event, of course, is Buzludzha. This former Monument House of the Bulgarian Communist Party sits atop a mountain and is only truly accessible by car. Famous for looking like a Communist UFO, give yourself time to get out and walk around the site.

If you want to turn your road trip into a multi-day affair, spend the night in nearby Stara Zagora, where you can take in another one of the country’s most famous Communist Sites and add a trip to the Thracian Tomb of Kazanak, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Otherwise, the drive back to Sofia will be beautiful, but possibly tiring. It helps to share this journey with another driver if you’re going to attempt it in one day.

16. Alternative Montenegro road trip: Komovi to Durmitor National Park (7 days)

Recommended by Sabrina and Kati, Moon & Honey Travel

• Distance covered: 560km (approx. 13 hours of driving)
• Highlights: Hiking, Bobotov Kuv

This Montenegro road trip highlights the country’s most impressive mountain ranges and national parks: Komovi, Prokletije and Durmitor.

It’s best to start this trip in the capital city, Podgorica. After picking up your rental car, begin your journey inland to the Komovi mountains. Base yourself in Stavna, a high alpine pasture dotted with traditional herdmen’s settlements (aka Katuns ). Here, you’re well-positioned to hike to the summit of Kom Vasojevićki, one of the highest peaks in the Komovi Range.

After exploring Komovi, it’s time to venture further inland to Prokletije National Park, otherwise known as the Accursed Mountains. Base yourself in Grebaje Valley and/or Ropojana Valley. You can access a number of day hiking trails from these valleys, though trail markings aren’t always ubiquitous, or clear. Note that there’s a 1 Euro entrance fee per person per day.

After a few days in the Accursed Mountains, begin the 3.5-4 hour drive to Durmitor National Park. The best base for exploring Durmitor is the town of Zabljak. There are numerous hiking options, including Bobotov Kuv and Planinica.

Your journey continues along the scenic Sedlo Route P14 through the heart of Durmitor National Park to Pluzine. The P14 is arguably the most beautiful road in all of Montenegro.

From here, you can make your return journey to Podgorica.

17. Kosovo road trip: Pristina to Prizren (3-5 days)

Recommended by Paulina, Paulina on the Road

• Distance covered: 160km (approx. 3 hours of driving)
• Highlights: Kosovo’s two biggest cities, UNESCO monasteries

Despite its small size, Kosovo is home to many different cultures, spectacular landscapes and warm-hearted people. One of the best ways to discover the beauty of Kosovo is by doing a road trip through the county.

This Balkan road trip will take you from the capital, Pristina , to the most scenic town, Prizren , via Peja – gateway to the most breathtaking mountain scenery in Kosovo. Calculate at least three days.

After enjoying what Pristina has to offer, start your road trip by driving to Prizren via the M9, with a quick detour to the UNESCO-Listed Gracanica Monastery on the way. The ride only lasts a little over an hour, but you’ll already get fantastic views. When arriving in Prizren, take at least one day to explore Kosovo’s most picturesque city. It has plenty of charming bars, too!

After Prizren, it’s time to drive to Gjakova , a small historic town with a wonderful covered bazaar. From there, head to Peja in the northern part of Kosovo, stopping at the second UNESCO monastery, Decani.

Pec is home to a large Serbian community and hosts the Peja Patriarchate, the spiritual seat and mausoleum of the Serbian Patriarchs. It’s also the gateway to the jaw-dropping Rugova Valley, a heaven for outdoor sports lovers.

This itinerary is the perfect way to spend 3 days in Kosovo .

18. Highlights of Croatia road trip: Zagreb to Dubrovnik (7 days)

Recommended by Inma, A World to Travel

• Distance covered: 600km (approx. 8 hours of driving)
• Highlights: The walled city of Dubrovnik, Dalmatian Coast, Korcula Island

A few years ago, I became infatuated by travelling by train in Europe . When I arrived in the Balkans and realised that it wasn’t so easy, I decided to rent a car instead.

I travelled from inland Croatia down the Dalmatian Coast over seven days. My first stop was Zagreb, the capital of Croatia. It normally doesn’t have a very good reputation (compared to the beautiful coastline) but it’s worth spending at least one night in Zagreb.

From there, I continued on towards Plitvice lakes. This part of Croatia is something else. Who can avoid falling in love with the unreal turquoise waters? It’s certainly one of the highlights of the country for me.

As I made my way down the coast, Krka, Split and other small towns all made for excellent stopover points. When I finally arrived in majestic Dubrovnik, I dropped off my rental car to continue on by bus.

If you decide to travel through Croatia from north to south, I recommend you to visit the wonderful Korcula island (less than two hours by car and ferry from Dubrovnik). Normally people skip it, but it’s well worth a visit!

19. Bosnia and Herzegovina & Montenegro road trip: Sarajevo to Zabljak (3-5 days)

Recommended by Arzo, Arzo Travels

• Distance covered: 170km (approx. 4 hours of driving)
• Highlights: Sarajevo, rafting on the Tara River

The Balkans has some amazing driving routes, and one of my favourite scenic drives is from Sarajevo (the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina) to Zabljak in Montenegro.

This route is different from everywhere else I have driven and one of the most beautiful trips I’ve ever done. Start from Sarajevo and take the M5 to Foca. The streets are mostly in good condition and the views are nice. Bosnians tend to drive fast and a bit reckless (I have seen several accidents), so be careful.

From Foca, take the M20 and then the M18. Close to the Montenegrin border, you’ll see the stunning Tara River. If you’re into water rafting and the season is right, this is the place to do it. Your route then passes through the Pluzine and Pliva Lake – one of the most beautiful places in the Balkans.

Driving here is stunning (though streets tend to be narrow in parts). The nature is a mix of Switzerland and Norway. Make sure to plan at least one day at Pliva Lake – there are good cafes, but a picnic somewhere high in the mountains is the best way to enjoy your breaks.

When you cross the border into Montenegro, head for the town of Zabljak at the gateway to Durmitor National Park. From here you can partake in some hiking before looping back to Sarajevo or continuing your road trip through Montenegro to the Bay of Kotor and the coast.

20. Southern Albania road trip: Saranda loop (4-7 days)

Recommended by Christine, Christine Abroad

• Distance covered: 360km (approx. 7 hours of driving)
• Highlights: The Blue Eye, beaches, UNESCO sites Gjirokaster & Butrint

The South of Albania has become quite popular in recent years – and for good reason. The Albanian riviera is full of beautiful beaches and bays with crystal clear water and white sand.

Many of the coastal towns are also in reach of beautiful and historical places such as The Syri i Kalter (the Blue Eye), Butrint (an archeological site), Gjirokaster (UNESCO town), and other interesting sites.

Related: Gjirokaster city guide .

I recommend this one week road trip, starting and ending in Saranda where there are ferry connections to Corfu, Greece. The best route is a circle, driving north first with stops in Himare and Gjipe Beach on your first day, then staying in Dhermi for two nights if you want to spend some time on the beach.

Next stop is Gjirokaster, which is situated inland. Head here on the morning of your third day and stay one night. On day four, make a day trip to Syri i Kalter, and then spend your last days in Saranda.

From Saranda, you can visit Butrint and Ksamil on a day trip, which is very easy if you have a car. Then you can drive around the various bays and beaches around Ksamil. Dedicate one of your last days to exploring historic Butrint, another UNESCO site.

The roads are fine in this part of Albania, and you won’t be driving more than one or two hours per day.

Have you ever done a road trip in the Balkans? Do you have any tips to share? Which of these Balkan road trip itineraries takes your fancy?

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Looking to travel through the Balkan’s next year and have a couple of months to have a good look around. Can you suggest a travel plan that covers all 20 road trips in one?

Hi Ross – you would need to look carefully into border crossings, permits and insurance requirements.

This was an excellent topic about Balkan road trips with many tips! I travel in June of 2022 from Greece to Sarajevo and back. I make it about 8 days alone with my motorcycle. This was an amazing beautiful roadtrip, cheap & fair enough. I would make it again and again! Thanks for the info.

Great information Emily, thank you so much!

So many beautiful places. I’ve visited the coastline of Montenegro and was absolutely amazed by the beauty of the Kotor Bay Area. In Croatia I was very disappointed of Dubrovnik it was a bit to touristy in my opinion. I’m looking forward to my next trip to the Balkans, thanks for your tips 😉 Can’t wait to explore Durmitor NP in Montenegro

I actually missed visiting Dubrovnik – maybe it was a good thing! I loved the bay in Montenegro too, especially Perast.

Such beautiful places! Thank you for a detailed and impressive guide! Saved your post for the future.

Hey, Emily!

Thank you so much for all the awesome info. I have plans for a Balkans road trip in the works, but am undecided as to when in the year to make it happen. Other than a summer trip providing more time to travel, do you know of any other pros/cons in regards to a summer vs. winter trip?

Cheers, Shay

Hi Shay! Glad you found the post helpful. That’s a good question!

We travelled mostly in winter and found most cities were nice and quiet. We didn’t have any trouble getting around in winter. However, a lot of smaller places (especially coastal towns in Croatia and Montenegro) are very seasonal and almost completely shut down in winter. I love having quiet streets, but there were a lot of cafes/shops that we missed out on because it wasn’t the season yet. That’s definitely something to consider.

If you want to do trekking (for example in Albania), the season doesn’t start until late May/June. So it depends on what activities you want to do as well. Bucharest and Transylvania in winter was cold but SO SO beautiful. Obviously driving in winter requires the right equipment.

Spring shoulder season would be a good compromise. We loved May (we were in Kosovo/Macedonia at that time) – beautiful and green but still not too busy.

I really hope this helps!

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A scenic road trip in Romania – Of medieval towns and dramatic castles

Romania isn’t an obvious choice for a road trip in Europe. In fact, most tourists who make it to the country just fly in and out of Bucharest. While Bucharest is indeed ideal for a city break, the country has so much more to offer. An offbeat road trip in Romania will take you through some of its most gorgeous historical villages, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the iconic Dracula’s Castle, scenic roads, and Romania’s hinterland. Read on for more.

Booking accommodation for your roadtrip in Romania: Tips

As you know we love going off the beaten path. We often find ourselves in obscure cottages in the middle of nowhere. But Romania is not the place for it! We would not suggest booking accommodation in extremely offbeat places in Romania. That’s because it is hard to find supermarkets, petrol pumps, or even small shops in such areas. Moreover locals don’t speak much English and are not used to having tourists in these areas. So we’d suggest sticking to the slightly larger towns and cities while booking accommodation in Romania. We’ve penned down all our suggestions in the guide below but as a rule of thumb, we’d suggest staying in downtown Bucharest, Sighisoara, Rasnov, and Targu Mures on this road trip of Romania.

Best time to go on a roadtrip in Romania

Summer months are ideal for this road trip. Anytime between the months of June and September work best as the scenery is at its best during that time of the year. This is not to say you cannot visit outside of those months – we went to Romania during March/April and despite mixed weather (sunny days, snowy spells, and rain), we had a great time there.

Renting a car for your roadtrip in Romania

It is easy to rent a car for your roadtrip in Romania. We’d suggest comparing prices first on this website and then picking the best deal you get. You can rent it when you first fly into the airport at Bucharest or you can pick it on Day 4 after you’ve explored Bucharest as you don’t need a car to explore the city at all.

Getting into Bucharest

If you don’t rent a car on Day #1, then you can take a cab from the airport to the city centre.

You can figure out your itinerary on getting to a place but it is always important to read up about the best ways of getting from the airport to your hotel in advance because you could save a bunch of money and get settled into a new country quicker this way. The best way to get from Bucharest International Airport to the city is to call an Uber. In fact, pre-paid cabs at Bucharest Airport cost almost thrice as much as calling an Uber to the airport. So make sure you have the app downloaded before you get there.

Days 1-4 Explore Bucharest

Accommodation in budapest.

If you’re in Bucharest just for 2-3 days, we’d suggest picking a comfortable and central hotel such as Europa Royale Bucharest. If you are there in the city for longer than 3 days or need accommodation with free parking, then we’d suggest renting an apartment on AirBnB . We rented an apartment near Cimsigiu Garden and loved our time there as it was away from the hustle bustle of the centre yet at walking distance from most sights, restaurants, supermarkets, and cafes.

Things to see and do in Bucharest

There is no shortage of things to do in Bucharest but here’s a few of our favourites:

• Start by walking around the cobble-stoned alleys of Old Centre (Lipscani) and Revolution Square
• Walk around Cimsigiu Park – we were lucky to visit when it was snowing and it was a beautiful sight. The park is amazing in spring and summer as well.
• The golden onion-shaped domes of St Nicolas Orthodox Church are a perfect introduction to Romania’s fraught history
• Pasagul Victoria has a ceiling full of umbrellas which make for the perfect photograph
• Pasagul Villacrose and Pasajul Macca have several quaint eateries – think Parisian cafés & restaurants
• Stavreopoleos monastery is a bit of a hidden gem but it’s old-world charm makes it seductive to curious travellers!
• Unirea shopping centre is perfect if you want to shop your hearts out in Bucharest. It has all the high-street stores you could possibly want
• If you’re a fan of speciality coffee, you’re in luck. Bucharest has some amazing cafés. Check out Origo coffee, Bandit coffee (It’s the shop with no name and panda signage), Beans and Dots coffee
• Love hip brunch spots? Check out The Urbanists, Frudisiac, and Lawyal brunch and cafe

Day 4: Visit Peles Castle and drive to Sighisoara

It’s time to pick up your rental car and set off on your road trip of Romania. Do remember that it is almost impossible to find big supermarkets outside of large towns, so stock up on snacks and any other edibles you might need before leaving Bucharest.

Almost as soon as you drive out of Bucharest, you will feel like you’ve stepped back in time. On day 4, drive to Sighisoara via Ploesti & Sinai. Make sure you stop to visit Peles Castle . The scenic Neo-Renaissance castle, surrounded by Carpathian Mountains, tends to get crowded during peak season, but it’s definitely worth a visit.

As you start nearing Sighisoara, colourful buildings will start cropping up. Park your car and get ready to fall in love with the it’s gorgeous medieval centre.

Day 5 Explore Sighisoara

Sighisoara is one of the gems of the historic region of Transylvania. It’s medieval fortified city is actually a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most charming cities you’ll see on your roadtrip in Romania. It boasts of a lot of history, pastel-coloured houses, and a magnificent clock tower. Make sure you walk around the centre and also climb to the top of the clock tower for a bird’s eye view of the region. You should also climb a hundred odd steps up to the top of the hill from where you get an amazing view of the entire medieval city

Accommodation in Sighisoara

Imagine staying right next to the Colosseum in Rome! That’s how we felt when we found a charming hotel, actually located inside the medieval fortified city of Sighisoara, literally steps away from the clock tower. Fronius Residence is a quaint boutique hotel in a historical building. It offers a great view of brighly-coloured houses and cobbled streets of Sighisoara. But the medieval house is equipped with modern and luxurious facilities. There are just a few rooms here but the emphasis is on quality. Expect huge comfortable beds, luxurious toiletries, and spacious bathrooms. The best part is the incredible rustic breakfast that boasts of homemade cakes, dips, and freshly-squeezed juices. Try the local apple juice at Fronius Residence and book the room overlooking the watch tower, even though it’s the one that gets sold out first. Highly recommend this one!

You won’t be allowed to park your car in the fortified part but there is a manned car park at the bottom of the hill where you can park your car for EUR 1.5 for 24 hours.

Days 6-7 Take day trips to Biertan & Lake Balea

After a relaxing day in Sighisoara, it’s time to explore the region around it. Drive down to the neighbouring Biertan for some great views of the mountains and the church. If you’re in the mood for a longer day trip, drive down to Lake Balea (weather and roads permitting – check before you to drive). Once you’re there, take the cable car up. Stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains are almost guaranteed.

Days 8-10 Brasov & Dracula’s Castle

It’s time to leave Sighisoara and drive onto your next accommodation. The next stop is usually Brasov for most tourists. However we would suggest avoiding Brasov (too touristy) and the skiing village of Azuga (too out of the way and deserted out of ski-season). Instead find a nice apartment in Rasnov and stay there instead. Once you’re all settled in, make sure you do the following

• Drive to the gorgeous monastery in Busteni for a drive. And if you want to work up an appetite, just hike to the monastery instead.
• Drive to Dracula’s Castle i.e. Bran castle . Besides the legends associated with it, the castle boasts of incredible scenery. Want a tip? If you want an amazing view of the castle of free, just drive to Vila bran’s restaurant for a beer or coffee and enjoy the free view of Bran Castle from there.
• Spend a day in Brasov. Hop on the cable car for a stunning view of the city. Take the rest of the day to walk around the Old Town’s cobbled alleys. The central square has a variety of chain restaurants and local eateries, so you’ll never be far from a good meal. It is easy to spend the entire day sightseeing and dining in Brasov.
• Drive to the hilltop church at Rasnov – it’s a great spot for taking photos.

Days 10-11 Drive The Transfagarasan Highway

On your way back to Bucharest, drive through the famous Transfagarasan Highway – it is one of the most scenic roads in the world. Unfortunately parts of the highway were snowed under when we visited in April. But if it’s open, we would definitely recommend stop at Balea Waterfall, Vidraru Dam, and Poienari Castle. You could drive the 150km stretch in one day but we’d recommend spending at least a couple of days in the area. If you have an extra day, try to drive to the The Transalpine Pass as well. Scenic views and spectacular panoramas await you.

Day 12 Return your car in Bucharest and fly out

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6 thoughts on “ a scenic road trip in romania – of medieval towns and dramatic castles ”.

Hi, 7 of us are planning to go to Romania but the visa process is difficult and they don’t give the visa easily is what I’ve heard. Can you please guide us on how did you’ll procure your visa.

We have a valid Schengen visa so it was not a problem for us!

can we visit Bulgaria on Romania visa ( not Schengen Visa). can you please guide us

That does seem to be a possibility however please confirm with your nearest Bulgarian consulate and have it in writing from them. These rules keep changing and it’s always best to get this information straight from the consulate.

Hey Savi and Vid how is Romania specially living in Bucharest like? Did you find some Indians? May land up being there for a long time for work. Atleast for 2-3 years!

Is Balea Lake and Balea waterfall at two different places? Isn’t Hotel Balea Cascada where hike for waterfall starts and at the same place we can see lakes too? Also request if you could guide how harsh is the weather? Do I need to carry my winter boots?

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Romania Road Trip – Part 1: Bucovina & Maramures!

When I pass by a vendor on the side of the road selling freshly made goat cheese or homemade jams, I want to stop and have a taste. I want to stop for that sudden photo opportunity or, better yet, just to take a few minutes to observe my surroundings or walk into that valley that I would otherwise pass right by.

Other forms of transportation have their value too. But if I have a chance to take a road trip, I’ll sign up faster than I would shave my armpits upon arrival in an intensely warm tropical location.

Over the past two weeks, I was fortunate enough to embark on a Romania road trip with a couple of other people, a trip that took me all over this mighty fine land.

And this was by far one of my favorite road trips of all time and it went a little something like this…

It all began with the wedding of some friends, more like acquaintances actually, and probably people who will never talk to me again after my horrendous dancing display when it came time to dance to traditional Romanian music at their wedding. As I was dancing as part of a circle of fifty people, moving this way and that, kicking my feet a little and trying to avoid looking as clumsy as I am, I think I almost caused serious injury to several other wedding attendees. My apologies to any aunt, uncle or cousin that I may have semi-trampled on!

But overall, this wedding was a major success. Just one of those genuinely brilliant nights full of good people and good fun, a long night (over 9 hours, finishing at 5:30am), but wonderful nonetheless. Great start to the road trip!

From Focsani, the town where the wedding took place, we headed to…

On my Wandering Earl Tour to Romania that I led last year, we visited the region of Bucovina, mostly for its well-known painted monasteries , but since this road trip took us in that general direction, I did not hesitate to head that way again. And I even decided to show up without warning at the beautiful guesthouse in Vatra Moldovitei where we stayed last year on the tour, something that proved to be a highlight of this adventure. The owners recognized me instantly and wouldn’t let us continue without spending a night at their place, enjoying a home-cooked dinner and drinking some of their own afinat, an often-delicious liquor made from blueberries. It was the kind of unexpected, yet perfect, experience that constantly reminds me why I’m traveling in the first place.

Yes, we also visited some of the painted monasteries – Voronet, Sucevita, Humor and Moldovita – and those were cool to see again as well. They’re interesting and remarkably peaceful with such few tourists up in the region at this time and the windy roads between some of them are the kind of roads that make you want to stop the car every ten meters for the view.

( Vila Crizantema – if you’re ever in Bucovina, I can highly, highly recommend this guesthouse! )

This was the heart of the road trip. Ever since I first stepped foot in Romania back in 2010, the region of Maramures, in the north of the country, was on my radar. However, given its location, well, way up in the far north of the country, I never seemed to find the time to travel there.

So when I actually saw the sign, along the remote mountain road leading from Campulung Moldovenesc to Borsa, welcoming me to Maramures county, I nearly drove right into that sign because I started clapping and cheering and doing some kind of weird (according to my passenger) thrusting motion in the driver’s seat. Luckily, I was yelled at in time to avoid hitting the sign in the end, or driving over the edge of the road and straight into the valley below.

Soon after, with the cool air of autumn descending upon the region on the day we entered Maramures, our first stop was the small town of Borsa. Here is where we prepared for the exciting days ahead, with a hot coffee at a cafe, a few minutes look at our map and a change into warmer clothes.

Then, with winter hat on the head and jacket all zippered up, we continued…

Maramures did not disappoint. The relaxed atmosphere and the traditional way of life, as well as the super-friendly people everywhere, matched exactly what I had heard, as did the wooden churches, merry cemetery and all the rest. And any area that offers endless, and usually empty, country roads to explore is ideal for a road trip. We drove all over the place, without much of a plan apart from choosing where to go based on the signs we passed or choosing random roads from our map.

Here’s where we ended up while in Maramures…

WOODEN CHURCHES From Ieud to Botiza to Rozavlea, from Budesti to Barsana to Calinesti and Surdesti, you would think that after visiting a couple of these wooden churches , one might be a little tired of the activity and prefer to do something else, maybe even hang out with the cows, for a change of pace. But surprisingly, it wasn’t so. I don’t think there was anyone else at any of the churches we visited and even though the signs in front of most of them said they were open from 9am – 4pm, there were so few visitors that we had to call the phone number on the sign and the villager with the key had to come up to the church to let us in. And when you have these unique, 200-400 year-old churches all to yourself, often surrounded by forest or located on a hill overlooking the countryside, religious or not, it’s hard not to enjoy the experience.

Carrying on to the…

MERRY CEMETERY Oh yeah, the Merry Cemetery. This was perhaps at the top of my list of places to visit on this Romania road trip and the two and a half hours I spent roaming around these graves certainly lived up to my expectations. In short, it’s a cemetery in the town of Sapanta where a local wood carver creates brightly colored wooden tombstones for the deceased. However, it’s not just the colors that make this cemetery stand out – it’s the carved images of the deceased and the short, often humorous, poetic and ironic, tale of the person’s life that is carved into the wood as well. It sometimes even goes into the details of how they passed away.

Here’s a few examples with the words translated (very loosely, as it’s almost impossible to maintain the meaning with they style in which they are written)…

With over eight-hundred of these tombstones packed into this relatively small area, there are stories everywhere and by the end of your visit, it’s hard not to look at death, and even life, a little differently, a little less seriously.

Who would think that spending such an amount of time walking around a cemetery would actually put you in an overly good mood? I wasn’t sure who to thank…the deceased, the wood carver or the villagers for keeping this tradition going even today. Heck, I’ll thank them all.

Onward we drove…

THE MEMORIAL OF THE VICTIMS OF COMMUNISM This was the biggest surprise of this portion of the Romania road trip. Having planned to arrive at this museum in the town of Sighetu Marmatiei two hours before closing, we were stunned to discover how large and how well-laid out this place turned out to be. We were equally stunned to discover that the exhibits, full of such detail that made you want to read every single word (or in my case hear each word translated into English), would take far more than two or three or even four hours to cover without rushing through it all.

The Memorial of the Victims of Communism is located in an old communist prison and is dedicated to all those who were victims of communism, not just in Romania, but in other countries around Europe as well. It’s a moving experience to spend time here and one that is absolutely worthwhile if you’re in Maramures. Give yourself a few hours, take it slow and try to soak it all in.

CHESTNUT FESTIVAL – BAIA MARE After visiting a couple of more wooden churches and driving the beautiful route from Bistra to Cavnic and then on to Baia Mare, we reached the final stop on this Maramures section of the road trip. Baia Mare is the capital of the region and I’ll be damned, there was a chestnut festival taking place when we arrived!

Right in the main square we found a stage and dozens of stalls and quite a celebratory atmosphere. But I’m not so sure what they were celebrating because it sure wasn’t chestnuts.

There were old-school Romanian singers performing, food vendors selling mici (grilled meat in sausage form made from beef, lamb and pork as well as spices) and chicken and shaorma, local artists offering their goods…there were apples for sale, freshly made jams, homemade wine and other delightful foodstuffs as well.

Chestnuts? Not so much. Despite being billed as the chestnut festival, there were only two chestnut vendors who were both very much overshadowed by the other stalls. But as I mentioned on my Facebook page at the time, who needs chestnuts anyway when there is hot wine available?

So, a couple of servings of hot wine, a few hours hanging out at the festival, listening to music and sampling the local products, a superb dinner experience at the Butoiasu cu Bere restaurant a few blocks from the main square and a nice, long night-time wander around town – not a bad day at all before it was time to hit the bed for my final night’s sleep in Maramures.

The following morning, after one more quick walk and purchasing a large bag of apples, and with my jolly mood showing no signs of disappearing at all, I bid farewell to this town and turned my attention to the second half of this Romania road trip…

Romaina Road Trip – Part 1 Route [Bucharest, Focsani, Vatra Moldovitei, Vadu Izei, Sighetu Marmatiei, Baia Mare]

Romania Road Trip – Part 2 Route [Cluj-Napoca, Turda, Hunedoara, Bulzesti, Sibiu and Transfagarasan]: Post coming soon!

Now let’s hear it…tell me about your greatest road trip…where did you go, what did it involve?

On a side note, for those who are looking to get into travel blogging, my friends over at Travel Blog Success are running a big Fall Sale for one more day. You can have access to all of their useful material and know-how for 25% less than the normal price. Just enter discount code TBS25 and you’re good to go!

New blog posts, honest updates from my 21 years of constant travel, personal recommendations and the best of travel from around the world.

42 Comments

Hi Earl, could you please delete my 3 posts/comments at the top of this thread? I did not post them in that order at all, one was a response to another comment posted by Bama, I clicked on reply under his post and then typed it, then the middle one was a correction to a misspelling in that post addressed to Bama. The way they are now, they make no sense so please delete them, I hate to leave my name attached to such nonsense. Thanks. This is a private request to you, so no need to publish it. Thanks again.

Hi Earl, A bit of trivia here: my Mom used to be the Manager/Accountant of Butoiașul cu Bere in the late Seventies and early Eighties when it was state owned. 🙂 About the Chestnuts Festival of Baia Mare (my home city in the past): at first there were chestnuts all over the place during that festival but in the past 5 years or so, the sweet chestnut forests of Maramureș with some trees being as old as 500-700 years, got infected with blight – known as Cryphonectria parasitica – it’s usually fatal to sweet chestnuts. It causes bright brown cankered bark, in contrast to the greenish normal bark and the disease, imported from Asia, had killed most of Maramureș chestnut trees. The only treatment is repeated vaccination of the trees, one by one and that costs so much, they cannot afford it I’m afraid. The same happens in France and all over Europe with the sweet chestnut plantations/forests.

[In response to Bama’s comment below] Bama, I’m from there originally although I live now in Australia, but the paintings on the Moldavian churches’ walls are not bucolic scenes, they are scenes from the Holly Bible depicting mainly the after life = hell and paradise. Those frescoes also contain portraits of the princes and kings of Moldavia together with their extended families at the time when these rulers erected those churches within the monastery walls. The tradition was that after each successful major battle in the war against the invading Ottoman Empire (the ottomans being today’s Turks) the ruler would erect one new church as praise to God and Jesus for helping them win that war/battle.

2. The Merry Cemetery crosses of Săpânța are not a centuries old tradition like the churches inside those monasteries fortified walls, it has been started when I was a kid by a funny local villager by the name of Stan Pătraș. He was initially a carpenter with the ability for rhyming and who also made crosses and coffins when required. One day he made such a cross probably for someone with good sense of humor and it caught on. If he wrote a limerick and painted the cross brightly, the customer paid better for being ‘different’, so some started ordering their crosses while still alive and approved the lyrics, others died unexpectedly and the family had to approve or disapprove the lyrics, etc. Nobody in Romania paid any attention to what was happening in that cemetery as communist regimes try to detach themselves completely from religion and its ceremonials and even suppress them. But one day about 45-50 years ago or so, a camera crew from Japan stumbled upon that cemetery accidental and the rest is history. Stan Pătraș became an international celebrity, a well off man and took a couple of apprentices to teach them the spirit of his trade. And this is the story of that unique in the world, one of a kind cemetery, few km away from the city where I was born.

Can you please do a post about how your travel is affected by the Schengen Agreement? I know it limits travel for backpackers, and you seem to be a real fan of Romania and Central Europe. I believe you may even have a residence there, or did at some point. Is the SA really a nightmare for backpackers?

Hey Joseph – It’s not really a nightmare…it’s quite simple. Travelers can only stay in the Schengen area for 90 days out of any 180 days. After they use up their 90 days, they need to be outside of the area for 3 months before they can return. However, there are plenty of countries, such as Romania, that are not part of the Schengen area, so you could go to the Schengen area for 3 months, then travel to Romania, Moldova, Bulgaria, Serbia, etc., spend 3 months in those non-Schengen countries, and then return to the Schengen area after that.

[…] the chestnut festival I talked about that really didn’t have many chestnuts? That was where the first half of this Romania road trip came to an […]

Romania is such an intensely cultural place …. glad you enjoyed it!

Does it count as a road trip when you’re on bikes? It totally does, which in that case, my best road trip experience would definitely be cycling around the Netherlands. We were sleeping in a one man midget tent, hardly any possessions on us and had no clue where we were going or what on earth we had gotten ourselves into! We had bikes with pannier bags, and we used spring chord to strap our backpacks to the back of the bikes. It 2 weeks of cycling and camping around the dutch countryside from city to city, meeting the most amazing people, seeing beautiful parts of Holland, and gaining substantial amounts of muscle mass, (quads the size of barrels). Best 2 weeks ever – would definitely recommend it to everyone!

Hey Nikki – Of course that counts! Sounds like quite an adventure!

[…] drove three and a half hours from Bucharest to the town of Focsani to drop off the car I used for my recent Romania road trip […]

Earl. This trip and all your others sound just amazing. I’m road tripping down the east coast of Australia and working in my blog. Here’s too future success and forever travelling.

I love this post Earl as Romania is such an unknown but intriguing country! I really find the headstones interesting and a really cool idea and as well as the funny chestnut festival (I hope that’s not too weird!).

I have 3 greatest road trips. The 1st one was a 6 week trip around Eastern Europe with my then boyfriend, who became my husband a few years later! That was our 1st big trip together, and we survived! Our road trip was to East Germany, Poland, Slovakia and the Czech Republic. This took place in 1994 which was 5 years after the Fall of the Berlin Wall!

The 2nd road trip was a another 6 week journey around the Federal Republic of Germany, 6 weeks after our only child was born in 2002. We spent time visiting the German side of the family and of course, travelling around the whole country. We covered the Baltic Sea area, the North Sea, East Germany, the Black Forest, Heidelberg, Trier, which is the oldest city in Germany, and of course, Munich, Cologne, Frankfurt, Düsseldorf, the usual places. It was a lovely road-trip, and our baby was just fine.

The 3rd road trip took place in America in 2011. We were in America for a month and took a road-trip around California, Arizona, Nevada and Utah. It was our 1st time in America, our son was 9 years old and we “did” all the National Parks in the region, the Grand Canyon, LA, Vegas, San Fransisco, Santa Barbara, Disneyland, the lot. It was a fabulous time and we hope to do it again in 2015, but on the East Coast. Great times!

Romania has always seemed like such an interesting place to visit. I would love to spend the day in the communism memorial. Those tombstones are so interesting, I’ve never seen anything similar. 🙂 My favourite road trips are when we travelled around the North Island in NZ, and when I went from San Francisco to San Diego with my family when I was a kid!

Doh – by “no chestnuts” I meant “not many” hehe.

Earl I loved this post, because I had no idea there was so much to see in Romania. I have to confess that out of all of Europe it’s one of my least-researched places, so I didn’t know most of this stuff existed.

Gotta love those gravestones! I actually think it’s a really nice touch, to celebrate the person’s life with colour and light-heartedness. I think I’d rather be remembered with a poem than with some sad inscription.

The Memorial to the Victims of Communism looks like it’d be very sobering, though. (And such a juxtaposition to see it right underneath your description of the Merry Cemetery). The pictures of those status makes me sad; I can only imagine there’d be many more things like that in the museum there.

And your description of the chestnut festival makes me feel warm and fuzzy inside, lol. Who cares that there were no chestnuts, any excuse for a party! haha

I love road trips in general. I agree with you – the freedom is the best thing about it. I’ve driven throughout much of Eastern Australia on road trips and I love seeing a sign for something quirky and going, “Let’s check that out!” and then taking 3 hours enjoying this new random thing you discovered. 🙂

Absolutely awesome.

My grandfather was Romanian – from Transylvania – and he had so many stories to share with us during his lifetime. From robbing corpses when he was a kid to grab money for food, to the calls he was receiving back in NJ after they killed “the monster”, Ceausescu, to the fine little garlic flavored meats we ate on the grill, that we all loved and gushed over.

Great memories. I want to visit his homeland one day and since I’m a 1/4 Romanian myself, it’d be fitting. So tough for me to leave the tropics though. Loving Fiji so much.

The Romanians are warm, kind people. This I know from my grandpa, and from his sisters, or my mom’s aunts, who’d visit here and there, to see their brother in NJ. They spoke virtually no English but they’d have gifts and smiles for us, and it’d be so fascinating to here their stories translated.

So much history, and culture, and even though I’m a teetotaler I’d have to try that blueberry liquor, because it sounds beyond amazing. I’m a sucker for any good, flavorful drink here and there, especially if it gets the thumbs up from a world traveler like yourself.

Thanks so much Earl. Tweeting soon.

Signing off from Savusavu, Fiji.

The painted monastery reminds me a little bit of a temple in Luang Prabang which is adorned with paintings depicting bucolic scenes of Laos. I was caught by surprise to read the translations of those tombstones in Merry Cemetery. I wonder if those were written before the death of a person at his own will, or they were written by the dead people’s families. Either way, it’s quite fascinating!

Hey Bama – Deanna replied to your comment with some more interesting information about the cemetery and churches but for some reason it didn’t show up as a reply. Might want to check out what she said!

So glad you went to Merry Cemetery! That was definitely a highlight of that region of Romania for me. It’s just so… different!

What fun to follow your trip around Romania! I was a Peace Corps volunteer there from 2007-2009, and visited some of the same places. Your photos and commentary are drawing me back again, I can’t wait!

The Bucovina monasteries pictures brought back good memories of your tour last year. I am so glad I went. Going on a road trip too with friends to see the Christmas Markets in December. Three women in a little car driving across three countries in the winter makes for lots of stories to tell later.

Hey Grace – You have no idea…when I went to the guesthouse that we stayed at in Bucovina, they were so happy and remembered everything about the group. It was incredible, they remembered the meals, where people were sitting at the table, where everyone was from. Definitely let me know how your upcoming road trip goes, should be wonderful I’m sure!

Great Post! Looks like I will be adding Romania to the place I want to travel to.

Hey Scott – You should add it to your list…you won’t be disappointed!

Presently I’m walking the Camino in Spain, and have the pleasure of walking with a great couple (Loana & Mihai) from Romania. They have encouraged me to visit their great country & may after your post. Thx Derek

Hey Mark – Great to hear and you really should head this way whenever you can, maybe not in winter though! In the summer, it’s such an ideal destination…I’ll actually be offering a tour here in May 🙂

Romanis really does look like such a beautiful corner of the world. My favourite museum to date was the Museum of Genocide Victims in Vilnius which is housed in the old KGB Headquarters – so very sad but absolutely riveting. I have done so many amazing road trips but I think the most incredible was probably 3 months driving in a van around Europe, free camping along the way.

For me, the definition of freedom is an open road and a full tank of gas. One of my favorites was a cross country tour across Cuba in a Lada rented from a Cuban government agency. We meandered from Vinales in the far west to Baracoa in the far east over two weeks. Public transit is very limited there, so at major intersections along the highway police are positioned to pull over any vehicles with open seats, and allow passengers to board. For tourists, accepting passengers was optional, but we were happy to have a chance to meet locals, and learned much from the many people we gave rides to. Just don’t pick anyone up with little baby chicks hidden in their bags, they can create a little havoc if they get loose!

Yay! Thank you sooooo much for taking the time to write of your experiences and posting such beautiful photos. They make me happy. I have not been to Romania but, what a lovely place it is. Perhaps one day I will find myself there. Loved the painted monasteries and the Merry Cemetery. Love it. Looking forward to part two.

We feel the exactly the same about the freedom in having our own transportation. The first photo on this post is absolutely gorgeous! We travelled through a good part of Europe this spring, and now Romania is on our list for next time. Croatia impressed us a lot this time, and Hungary. Keep up the good work!

being a fan of road trips, this post touches my heart! the year my husband and i were married, we unexpectedly adopted a dog whose needs kept us from our original travel plans of several months in southeast asia. having saved all the money and taken the time off, we decided to switch gears and drive cross country with our dog. inspired by family and friend’s locations and desirable destinations, we mapped out a route to california. it was truly a most incredible adventure full of laughter, good food, spontaneity, and new experiences!

Amazing road trip so far! I’ll have to do the same the next time! We’ll be in UK/Europe again within the next couple of years. My daughter wants to go after bachelor’s degree, before school starts for her master’s. Maybe we’ll finally catch up and have that drink we’ve mentioned a few times! 🙂

I’ve been following your blog for a while now and finally decided to comment.

I’ve been planning an eastern europe trip, hopefully getting it going in the summer of next year. I will have to make this one of my stops along the way. How long did your road trip last? And where did you end up staying (accommodation) along the way?

Safe travels,

Hey Thomas – Thanks for commenting! As for the road trip, it lasted two weeks as that was all the time I had but we did move quite quickly. If you have three weeks, it would have been much more relaxed. As for accommodation, we stayed in a combination of pensiune (guesthouses) and hostels. There are plenty of both all over the place and you can expect to pay anything from $12 USD for a dorm room in a hostel to $35 USD for a great private room in a really nice guesthouse.

I, too, LOVE road trips! Romania is beautiful beyond words or imagination! Look at the churches and monasteries! Gasp… I envy you! It is definitely on my wish-list whenever I embark on my European trip.

Call me morbid but I love cemeteries and your photos of the Merry Cemetery in the town of Sapanta with the gorgeous colored wooden headstones made me smile! We’re hoping to get to Eastern Europe in 2015 and I’ve bookmarked your roadtrip – what fun!

Hey Anita – If you do make it this way, let me know and I can offer some more tips!

Amazing! I’d love to go to Romania, and according to these pictures, Maramures is the place I definitely want to go to!

My greatest road trip so far was up the Australian west coast. I drove from Perth to Monkey Mia and Shark Bay, passing Kalbarri National Park on the way, and back. The west coast of Australia is nothing like the backpacker-overrun east coast. It’s quiet, remote and calm. Loved it!

Hey Earl, if you want to stay more than a day in Cluj, you are welcomed at Casa de cultură permanenta ( https://permanentacasa.wordpress.com/about/ ) . I’m shure you will enjoy the company and you will also have a free place to sleep and eat 🙂

I LOVE road trips! My hubby and I drove across the US and back for our honeymoon 6 years ago. I’ve also taken road trips through Costa Rica and Mexico. I love the independence of it, especially when you happen upon festivals like the chesnut one you went to. It’s so fun, and you just can’t do that without a car.

I was in Montenegro in 2012 in a town called Kotor, I had plans to stay for a few days then fly to Belgrade. Got to a hostel and met some travellers who told me they were hiring a car and there was a spare seat if I wanted to come. I thought it through for about one minute, then decided to go and cancel my flight to Belgrade. It was the best decision ever, we cruised around Montenegro visiting little towns, insanely beautiful national parks and staying at locals houses. Spontaneity is the best part of traveling!

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Sunflowers, roses and wildflowers: A guide to New Jersey's most colorful gardens

From world-class flower farms to unknown gardens and trails, the Garden State has all the flowers to entice any plant lover looking for color.

Here are 8 great places to see the best flowers in New Jersey:

Reeves-Reed Arboretum, Summit

Nestled in Union County, the Reeves-Reed Arboretum is a floral oasis. Its vibrant landscape is filled with colors and scents, showcasing a rich variety of native and exotic blooms. From the delicate petals of springtime tulips to the bold splashes of summer roses, every season brings a new spectacle of floral beauty to delight visitors of all ages.

Greenway Meadows Park, Princeton

This expansive park offers a picturesque landscape of rolling meadows, shady groves, and flowery spots, providing a perfect escape for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Among its many charms are the many flowers that live there. From the cheerful daisies and sunflowers to the delicate blooms of wildflowers, the park got a lot to delights visitors throughout the seasons.

With its ample green spaces, playgrounds, and picnic areas, this park is perfect for relaxed yet playful moments.

Durr's Bluebox Produce and Flowers, Wrightstown

This charming gem for flower enthusiasts has a bounty of fresh flowers on sale. You can pick up your own flowers from the ground and create a fresh bouquet. Edible produce is also available on this acclaimed farm market.

Five Ponds Loop, Ringwood

Looking for a retreat away from the crowds? If so, this trail got you covered.

Through this secluded, 5.7-mile hike you can enjoy wildflower beds scattered throughout the trail. The hike has many small ponds and is suitable for bikes too.

Dalton Farms, Swedesboro

Renowned for its vibrant fields of flowers, the farm offers visitors a breathtaking spectacle of color and fragrance. At this farm you can see fields covered with sunflowers, zinnias, lavender, dahlias and tulips. Dalton Farms is an unforgettable floral experience for many. Admission to this farm cost $14 online, or $20 at the entrance. Tulips and daffodils can be picked for $2 per stem or ten for $10.

Rutgers Gardens, North Brunswick

This 180-acre botanic garden features dozens of gardens filled with azaleas, irises, allium blooms and many other species. Every garden is different from one another containing a specific collection of flora, such as the Donald B. Lacey Garden, a photographers attraction known for its extensive beds of irises, herbs and vegetables.

Holland Ridge Farms, Cream Ridge

One of the biggest tulip farms in the country, this magical place is filled with flowers as far as the eye can see. When you visit, you'll find yourself surrounded by rows of colorful blooms of tulips and fragrant hyacinths.

This 300-acre farm has over 8 million tulips on display. Visitors can roam around, pick up some tulips and maybe take some photos.

A ticket is required to enter the farm. The are selling online for $15 and $17, depending on the day.

Brookdale Park Rose Garden, Montclair

Everywhere you look, there are roses in all shades and sizes, filling the air with their sweet scent. It's a peaceful place where you can stroll among the over 500 rose bushes in close to 150 varieties. While the garden is open year round, peak blooming times are in June and September.

How to Use the Tesla Trip Planner

Tesla’s Trip Planner can be used on a computer to plan a road trip ahead of time, with the advantage of finding food, lodging, and other stops near chargers. It can also be used on the go to adjust plans. Here’s what you should know.

Telsa Motors, Inc.

What Is Tesla’s Trip Planner?

Tesla’s trip planning tools can be used both before you embark on your trip, as well as when you’re already on the road. Though specific features vary by manufacturer, all electric vehicles have ways to help the owner locate chargers on the go, see chargers’ status, and plan routes to destinations to balance optimizing the car’s range while finding the most convenient available chargers. In that way, Tesla’s trip planning tools are not unique to Tesla vehicles .

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Key Takeaways

• With computer-based and in-car features, Tesla’s Trip Planner can be used well in advance or on the go
• The trip planner helps find the most efficient route to your destination
• Tesla’s tools also help you find chargers along your route.

However, Tesla does have the advantage of being an early innovator in the segment, as well as having access to the formerly proprietary Tesla Supercharger network, widely regarded as the best of its kind in terms of reliability and efficiency.

An EV Road Trip

Warren Clarke Sept. 28, 2023

Tesla’s Trip Planner can be used on a computer to plan a road trip ahead of time, with the advantage of finding food, lodging, and other desired stops near chargers. It can also be used on the go, to adjust plans if needed or desired. Here’s what you need to know.

Get Ready to Go

Use Tesla’s Trip Planner Go Anywhere tool from the comfort of your home, at any or all stages of planning your trip . Whether it’s an overnight or a cross-country jaunt, the Trip Planner can optimize your route, find and recommend Tesla Superchargers, and even suggest Destination Charging . The latter are charging locations specifically located near points of interest, such as restaurants, hotels, and shopping, so you can charge overnight, while eating, or while restocking your road trip supplies and provisions.

How To Charge an EV at a Public Charger

Steven Loveday and Warren Clarke Jan. 8, 2024

Using the Trip Planner ahead of time means you can ensure you’ll hit your desired points of interest and know where you’ll be spending the night, so you can head out confidently. Yet, if your plans change along the way, Tesla’s got you covered there, too.

On the Road

Whether you’ve planned in advance or it’s more of a last-minute or short trip, Tesla’s Trip Planner is also available behind the wheel. If you’re already in your car, your Tesla’s navigation system will show you the fastest route to your destination, and will highlight Tesla Superchargers along the way. This strategy can help you plan your charging to take advantage of nearby sites so you can explore, rest, or grab something to eat.

How Much Does it Cost to Charge an Electric Car?

Warren Clarke Jan. 16, 2024

The lightning bolt icon on your Tesla’s navigation screen will instantly find the nearest Supercharger to your location, along with its current availability and charging rates . Tesla advises using the trip planner during a trip to stay informed of nearby Tesla Superchargers and your car’s recommendations for charging.

Other Tips and Advice

Tesla offers advice to optimize your charging and range while on a trip. When driving, make sure braking is set to the regenerative setting, which means that the car will recapture energy from braking and send it back to the battery pack, which helps maximize range. Also check your tires and ensure they’re set to the proper pressure, which also helps conserve battery power and reduce how often you’ll need to charge.

Whenever possible, park in the shade to keep the vehicle as cool as possible, and leave the air conditioning running while parked. This way, you can come back to a cool and comfortable vehicle. You can monitor and adjust the car’s cabin temperature remotely through Tesla’s smartphone app.

Note that Tesla advises leaving your vehicle plugged in whenever possible when you’re on a trip. Tesla says this will not degrade the battery or battery life over time.

Planning ahead of time will help ensure peace of mind for an extended road trip, but a combined approach of using Tesla’s trip planner tools both beforehand and on the go can help ensure you’re well prepared for your journey with room for some spontaneity and last-minute surprises. After all, what’s a road trip without the opportunity for a little adventure?

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