By planning a trip through Romania with a rental car, you will quickly discover that it is one of the best countries in Europe to explore. Picturesque mountains, wild valleys, medieval villages and coastal landscapes make every route here a real adventure. Romania offers both spectacular mountain roads and quiet, scenic drives through fascinating, history-rich regions. Here are the most interesting itineraries that are worth adding to your travel program.
Why is it worth visiting Romania by car?
Romania is one of the most underrated countries in Europe when it comes to traveling by car. The picturesque roads that wind through the Carpathians, the charming villages that seem to have stopped in time, the medieval villages and the wild nature make discovering the country behind the wheel of a rental car a real adventure. Traveling by car you have total freedom in choosing the pace, direction and places you want to visit, from mountain serpentines to coastal roads.
The freedom to travel and discover lesser-known places
Despite popular opinion, Romania is a fairly well-connected country. In many regions the barrier is mountainous terrain and another challenge is the motorway network, which is still under development. However, each region is full of scenic, good quality asphalt roads that can take you to the most forgotten and wild places.
Roads and infrastructure in Romania: what you should know before leaving
Romania is a developing country. Most national (DN) and local roads have already been improved, which allows you to cross the country by car without problems. The motorway and expressway network is still under construction, but you can already enjoy new and safe expressways, the total length of which is approximately 1400 km, and another 860 km are under construction.
Transfăgărășan – the most spectacular route in Romania
Defined by many enthusiasts as «the most beautiful road in the world». One of the most spectacular roads in Europe. Impressive hairpin bends, breathtaking views and Lake Bâlea at the top of the route make it a must for every driver and landscape lover.
Where is Transfăgărășanul?
The beginning of the Transfăgărășan road (DN7C) is considered to be the Vidraru Dam – the highest dam in Romania, which forms the picturesque lake of the same name. Then the road winds through the wild forests of the Carpathians, then climbs the rocky slopes of Romania’s highest mountain massifs. Once at the top you cross the Capra-Bâlea tunnel, where the route reaches the maximum altitude of 2042 m. On the northern side of the mountains Europe’s most famous winding road landscape awaits you. The end of the route is believed to be in the town of CârÈ›iÅŸoara, on the northern side of the Carpathian mountain range.
When is the Transfăgărășan route open?
The route is only open when it is not covered in snow. This usually happens from early May to mid-October. Before your trip, check if the road is open on the CNAIR website.
The most beautiful scenic spots on the Transfăgărășan route
- Vidraru Dam
- Goat waterfall
- Salvamont Cota 2000 ArgeÈ™
- Salvamont Bâlea Base
- Panoramic view of Transfagarasan
Transalpina – the highest road in Romania
The Transalpina is the highest road in Romania, rising to over 2100 m altitude. It passes through the impressive landscapes of the Parâng Mountains, offering sweeping panoramas, sharp turns and wild mountain views. It is the ideal route for lovers of driving in the midst of nature and one of the most spectacular roads in the country.
The differences between Transalpina and Transfăgărășan
The Transalpina is located higher up, being wilder and harsher. It is a scenic route with wide horizons and long, gentle curves that cross open mountain spaces. The street offers a more «natural» and less civilized atmosphere.
The Transfăgărășan, on the other hand, is Romania’s most spectacular winding road, known for its steep serpentines, tunnels and picturesque lakes, such as Bâlea. It is a more evocative and technical route with numerous hairpin bends close to the rocky walls. TransfăgăraÅŸan is often busier on weekends.
The best time to travel the Transalpina
The best period is: June – September. During this interval the roads are completely passable and the conditions are the most stable.
On the Transalpina, strong winds and sudden climate changes can occur even in summer. The temperature on the ridges can drop to a few degrees.
The route through Transylvania – medieval cities and mountain landscapes
A car trip through Transylvania is the ideal proposal for those who want to combine the impressive panoramas of the Carpathians with the atmosphere of the very well preserved historic centres. The region is rich in history, castles and narrow streets, and each stop strikes with a unique atmosphere. It is a route where medieval charm meets the majesty of nature.
Brașov, Sibiu, Sighisoara – mandatory stops
- Braşov – a city surrounded by mountains, with a splendid historic center and the famous Black Church. An ideal place to breathe the atmosphere of Transylvania and to take advantage of the scenic routes in the area.
- Sibiu – the cultural center of the region, known for its colorful buildings and fascinating markets. Its historic center is considered one of the most beautiful in all of Romania.
- SIGHIŞOARA – one of the best preserved medieval fortresses in Europe. Its charming and colorful streets, together with its towers, make this city a true symbol of Transylvanian history.
From the Danube Delta through Istria to Constanta – an adventure for nature and history lovers
What is worth visiting in the Konstanz area?
Constanta is one of the largest cities in Romania. In addition to its status as a tourist resort and port, it also has important historical value. The historic center, full of restaurants, has a particular historical charm. You can visit the National Museum of History and Archaeology, where you will see ancient Roman artefacts. Also not to be missed is the Constanta Casino and the historic Cathedral «Holy Apostles Peter and Paul
Istria – ancient heritage
Near Constanta, 45 km north, is the largest archaeological site in Romania. An ancient Greek, then Roman, city, rich in vestiges of ancient civilizations. There you will also find the Histria Citadel Museum, full of excellently preserved artifacts and sculptures from the Roman Empire period.
Sulina – the city at the mouth of the Danube
Sulina is a unique city located at the tip of Romania, where the Danube flows into the Black Sea. It is a place where time seems to pass more slowly: no cars, no crowds and no urban noise. It is the ideal destination for those seeking peace, nature and the authentic atmosphere of the Danube Delta.
Which car is best suited for the above routes?
All the routes described are asphalted roads with good or fair surface. Therefore, a normal, comfortable car is enough. Renting an SUV will definitely make it easier to get off the trail on country roads or forest trails. At DEX CAR we offer both city cars and comfortable sedans, as well as medium and large SUVs.
Are vignettes necessary in Romania?
Yes, the Rovinieta electronic toll is mandatory on all roads in Romania. From DEX CAR you do not have to worry about its purchase, because each car has Rovinieta, without any additional cost on your part.
What are the speed limits in Romania?
In Romania the following speed limits apply for vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes:
- 50 km/h in cities,
- 90 km/h outside the city,
- 100 km/h on extra-urban national roads (DN),
- 120 km/h on expressways (DEx),
- 130 km/h on the motorway.
Remember to always follow speed limit signs; it happens that the limits in localities are higher, for example up to 70 km/h, or lower, up to 40 km/h throughout the area.
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