Romania, a country nestled in Eastern Europe, is an exceptional destination for a road trip. Its diverse landscape, rich cultural heritage, and captivating history make it a one-of-a-kind experience for travelers seeking to explore off the beaten path. The land boasts stunning natural scenery, from the dramatic Carpathian Mountains to the lush Danube Delta, and picturesque countryside dotted with well-preserved medieval towns and fortified churches.
One of the many highlights of a Romanian road trip is the opportunity to traverse the legendary Transfagarasan Highway. This breathtaking road, built during the communist era, winds its way through the Fagaras Mountains, offering spectacular views of pristine lakes, lush valleys, and rocky peaks. It's been dubbed "the best road in the world" by Top Gear, a title that's difficult to dispute when you're navigating its thrilling hairpin bends and admiring the surrounding vistas.
Romania's rich cultural heritage is another compelling reason to embark on a road trip. As you explore the country, you'll encounter centuries-old monasteries, such as the Painted Monasteries of Bucovina, adorned with stunning frescoes that tell tales of religious history. The medieval towns of Sighisoara, Brasov, and Sibiu, with their colorful baroque buildings and cobblestone streets, transport you back in time, offering glimpses of the country's tumultuous past and charming present.
No visit to Romania would be complete without a trip to the mythical region of Transylvania. Synonymous with the legend of Count Dracula, this area is home to impressive castles and fortresses that spark the imagination. Bran Castle, for example, is famously associated with Bram Stoker's iconic vampire and is a must-visit for anyone exploring Transylvania.
Throughout your journey, you'll have the chance to savor Romania's delicious cuisine, which blends Balkan, Turkish, and Hungarian influences. Traditional dishes like sarmale, mici, and ciorba de burta can be enjoyed at local taverns, or "han," where you'll also experience warm Romanian hospitality.
A road trip through Romania is an unparalleled opportunity to explore a country that remains relatively unspoiled by mass tourism. With its striking landscapes, fascinating history, and vibrant culture, Romania provides an unforgettable adventure for those seeking to discover the hidden gems of Europe. So buckle up, and prepare to be amazed by the many wonders this captivating land has to offer.
Road Trip Highlights in Romania
The best place to start your journey around Romania is surely Bucharest, known as "the Little Paris" in the past. Beautiful architecture, neoclassical facades, and scenic plazas have survived not only earthquakes but also war.
After a visit in Bucharest, it's worth heading to the beautiful Sibiu located at a stone's throw from Sighisoara, which can boast one of the best preserved medieval urban complexes. Located 40 km away, Medias is an ideal retreat from the crowded streets. Once a trading village, today it is a perfect option for trying Romanian delicacies and an interesting stop in your trip around Transylvania.
In Gura Humorului, you can find architecturally interesting Orthodox churches. From there, a straight path follows to Vorones with a defensive monastery and a small Orthodox Church of St George. In order to see more excellent religious edifices, it's best to travel to the Moldovisa Monastery dating back to the 15th century or to the Sucevi?a Monastery, which can boast a charming Orthodox church.
Central Romania is as beautiful as the country's highlands. It is enough to pay a visit in Brasov or at the Red Lake, located nearby the colourful Bicaz Canyon, to grasp the charm of this land. This part of the country is riddled with defensive churches. Examples of such constructions are the church in Prejmer or the church in Hărman - both dating back to the 13th century. Among all of the bastions in Romania, the most popular one is probably Bran Castle which is advertised as a fortification connected with Vlad the Impaler.
Tourists directing their steps towards the Black Sea should visit country's largest commercial port, namely Constanca. Around the central Ovid's Square, you will find numerous medieval constructions and charming cafés. While travelling around the province, it is also worth heading to Histria, which was originally established by the Greeks. Unfortunately, you won't get there without a car as it is located away from the popular towns.
The Black Sea is also a synonym of sunbathing, warm water, and superb tourist infrastructure - all of that and even more can be found in Mamaia which is the largest seaside resort in this region.
Tulcea is another town that welcomes tourists with an idyllic climate and picturesque location in the Danube Delta. Here, the lovers of active spending of their free time will find a small paradise, where sightseeing trips around the nearby nature reserve will have no end.
Car Rentals in Romania
Before starting your journey around the beautiful Romania, you have to choose an appropriate rental car and insurance type. All of the major Romanian cities and main airports can boast a number of car rental spots which will provide you with a detailed offer concerning the best and the most convenient options - after choosing your rental vehicle, it's time to hit the road!
While travelling around Romanian roads, it's vital to remember to observe the speed limits. These are: 50 km/h in built-up areas, 90 km/h in rural areas, and 130 km/h on motorways.
In Romania, you need to have your dipped headlights on when travelling in urban areas, but only at night. During the day, motorists use them only in case of adverse weather conditions. Outside the cities and built-up areas, automotive lighting has to be used both at night and during the day.
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Unfortunately, Romania can't really boast impeccable roads; therefore, it's worth staying extra cautious, especially while driving at night. Many Romanian roads are also poorly marked.
Remember that motorways and expressways are all toll roads. However, the whole system is pretty easy to follow as there are special vignettes that solve the whole problem. Vignettes are available at post offices. They can also be purchased online and at petrol stations. Make sure that you've bought it as lack of a vignette results in high tickets.
Drinking and driving is heavily penalised in Romania and there is zero tolerance for any blood alcohol level. Tickets for drinking and driving range from €80 to €200, but sometimes such situations end with the seizing of your driver's licence by authorities.
Best Time for taking a Road Trip in Romania
The best time for a road trip in Romania is during the late spring, summer, and early autumn months, specifically from May to October. This period offers the most pleasant weather conditions and longer daylight hours, allowing you to fully enjoy the country's diverse landscapes and attractions.
Late spring (May and June) is ideal for visiting Romania as the weather is mild, nature is in full bloom, and the tourist crowds are relatively smaller. This is a great time to explore the countryside, discover Romania's charming villages, and witness the vibrant colors of wildflowers.
Summer (July and August) is the peak tourist season, with warm and sunny weather that's perfect for sightseeing and enjoying outdoor activities. During this time, you can visit the famous Transylvanian castles, take a scenic drive through the Carpathian Mountains, or explore the picturesque regions of Maramureș and Bucovina. Keep in mind that popular attractions might be more crowded during the summer months, and accommodations may be more expensive.
Early autumn (September and October) is another excellent time for a road trip in Romania. The weather remains pleasant, and the changing colors of the foliage make the countryside even more stunning. This period also sees fewer tourists, which means less crowded attractions and better deals on accommodations.
While it's possible to take a road trip in Romania during the winter months, it's generally not recommended due to harsh weather conditions, shorter daylight hours, and the risk of snow and ice on the roads. However, if you are an experienced winter driver and are interested in winter sports, you may still consider visiting Romania's ski resorts during this time.
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How expensive is a Road Trip in Romania
A road trip in Romania can be quite affordable compared to many other European countries. While the overall cost of your trip will depend on various factors such as accommodation, food, and activities, here's an overview of the expenses you can expect.
For accommodation, budget travelers can find guesthouses and hostels starting from as low as $15 per night, while mid-range hotels can cost between $40 and $80 per night. Luxury hotels and resorts can be more expensive, but even the higher-end options are often reasonable compared to Western European standards.
Food in Romania is generally inexpensive, with a meal at a local restaurant costing around $5 to $10 per person. If you prefer to cook your own meals or enjoy street food, you can save even more. On average, daily food expenses can range from $10 to $30 per person, depending on your preferences and dining habits.
When it comes to renting a car, the cost can vary depending on the type of vehicle, rental company, and the duration of your rental. On average, you can expect to pay between $20 and $50 per day for a compact or economy car. If you're planning a longer road trip, many companies offer discounts for weekly or monthly rentals. Don't forget to factor in the cost of fuel, which is relatively affordable in Romania, and any additional insurance or fees you may need.
Other expenses to consider include entrance fees for attractions, such as museums or castles, which can range from $2 to $10 per person. If you're interested in guided tours or adventure activities, these can also add to your overall costs.
In summary, a road trip in Romania can be quite budget-friendly, with average daily expenses ranging from $50 to $100 per person, depending on your choice of accommodations, food, and activities. With its affordable rental car options and reasonable living costs, Romania offers a great opportunity to explore a fascinating and diverse country without breaking the bank.
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