Transfagarasan Panoramic Road

Embark on the Transfagarasan Panoramic Road, a 203km journey through Romania, starting in the city of Pitești and ending in Sibiu. Along the way, you'll pass through the towns of Curtea de Arges and Cartisoara, and get to experience the breathtaking landscapes of the Carpathian Mountains. The best time to drive is during the summer months, when the roads are in good condition and the views are at their finest. The Transfagarasan Panoramic Road is suitable for all drivers, and can be managed on a fair budget. It's a great way to experience the beauty of Romania and make memories that will last a lifetime. So, buckle up and get ready to be amazed!

Pitești, a city in Romania, is the starting point of the beautiful and renowned Transfagarasan Panoramic Road. Situated in the Arges county, this destination is ideal for those looking to explore the beauty of Romania. The city of Pitești has many great sights to offer. Make sure to visit the beautiful Saint George Monastery, the Palace of Culture, the Museum of History and Archaeology, the Old Town Hall, and the ruins of the Pitești Citadel. For some relaxation, head to one of the many parks, such as the Ion Roata Park and the Central Park. The nearest international airport to Pitești is the Henri Coanda International Airport (OTP), located about 90 kilometers away. If you plan on driving, car rentals are available at the airport. So, make sure to visit Pitești if you plan on embarking on the Transfagarasan Panoramic Road. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture, and take in the gorgeous sights of this beautiful city.

Embark on a road trip from Pitești to Curtea de Arges, Romania, for a scenic drive of 40 km and less than 1 hour of driving time. This is one of the stages of an amazing tour that will take you through some of the most beautiful destinations in Romania. On the route, you can admire the picturesque landscapes of the Argeș Valley and the mountains in the background. Make sure to stop and take some photos at the ruins of Poienari Fortress, the former home of Vlad the Impaler. You can also visit the Curtea de Argeș Monastery, a beautiful architectural complex with a unique history. As you drive through the winding roads, keep an eye out for the traditional villages and their traditional architecture. You can also take a break at the local farms and sample some of the delicious local produce. At the end of this stage, you will reach the city of Curtea de Arges, where you can take in the breathtaking views of the Argeș River. Make sure to check out the ruins of the 14th century Princely Court and the nearby Cozia Monastery. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

Are you ready for an incredible road trip experience? Start your journey in Curtea de Arges, Romania, and end it in Cartisoara, after driving 112 km in less than 3 hours. On the way, you will be able to enjoy some of the most interesting places in the area. Visit Curtea de Arges Monastery, the oldest and most important monastery in Romania, and the Curtea de Arges Cathedral, a beautiful example of Byzantine architecture. Then, take a break in the quaint village of Poenari, known for its unique landscape and the ruins of Poenari Castle, the real-life inspiration for Dracula's castle. When you arrive in Cartisoara, you can explore the ruins of the Cartisoara Fortress, an old stronghold built in the 12th century. To get the most out of your road trip, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your journey!

Welcome to the road trip stage starting in Cartisoara and ending in Sibiu! This 51km drive will take you less than an hour and you will be able to enjoy some of the most interesting places in Romania. In Cartisoara, you can visit the ruins of a 14th century castle and the nearby church. The castle was once the home of the Craiovesti family and the church is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture. As you continue your journey, make sure to keep an eye out for the historical sites along the way. The most impressive of these is the Bran Castle, a 14th century castle built by the Teutonic Knights. It is a great place to explore and take pictures. Finally, you will arrive in Sibiu, a beautiful city that has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you can admire the stunning architecture of the old town and visit the Evangelical Church, the oldest in the city. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your journey!

Sibiu, the city of Romania, is the end point of the spectacular Transfagarasan Panoramic Road. This trip is a must for all nature and car lovers, offering some of the best views in the world. The city of Sibiu is also no less impressive, having a great cultural and historical heritage. The city’s old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the perfect place to explore the old charm of Romania. The main attractions are the Brukenthal National Museum, the Bridge of Lies, and the Evangelical Church. Furthermore, travelers can enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding area. The Fagaras Mountains, the Paltinis Ski Resort, and the Retezat National Park are all within easy reach. Sibiu is a great destination for car travelers. The closest international airport is located in Sibiu, IATA code SBZ. From there, travelers can rent a car and drive directly to the city, as well as to the nearby attractions. All in all, Sibiu is a great destination to end a road trip on the Transfagarasan Panoramic Road. With its impressive cultural and historical heritage and its surrounding natural beauty, it is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the beauty of Romania.

Before you set off

The Transfagarasan, officially known as DN7C, is a spectacular 203 km (126 miles) mountainous drive in Romania, winding through the picturesque landscape from Pitești to Sibiu. It is renowned for its breathtaking views and is a marvel of engineering that cuts across the southern section of the Carpathian Mountains.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

• The journey begins in Pitești, a city known for its automobile industry and proximity to the historical town of Curtea de Arges. Here, visitors can explore the stunning Curtea de Arges Monastery, an architectural masterpiece of Romania with its intricate frescoes and legends of sacrifice during construction.
• Cartisoara is not just a village but also a starting point for exploring the majestic Fagaras Mountains, which are among the highest in Romania and part of the Southern Carpathians.
• Balea Lake is a glacial jewel situated at an altitude of 2,034 meters, with the nearby Balea Waterfall cascading down rocky terrains, providing nature enthusiasts with some of the most awe-inspiring views in the country.
• The ruins of Poenari Castle, perched high on a cliff, offer a tangible connection to Vlad the Impaler, the historical figure who inspired Bram Stoker's Dracula. This fortress demands a climb of over 1,400 steps for a mesmerizing panoramic view.
• Vidraru Dam, completed in 1966, is an engineering feat that created Lake Vidraru. This artificial lake is nestled in the mountains and is a hotspot for water sports and leisure activities.

Best Time to Go:

The Transfagarasan Highway is best traversed during the summer months, typically from July to September, when the snow has melted, revealing the full splendor of the surrounding nature and making all attractions accessible.

Potential Risks:

• The Road is known for its sharp turns and steep drops, demanding vigilant driving and respect for weather conditions that can change rapidly, leading to hazards like landslides or heavy fog.
• Outside of summer, parts of the Road may be closed due to snow, so always check local conditions before planning your Trip.

Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:

• The construction of the Transfagarasan was a monumental task, ordered by communist leader Nicolae Ceaușescu as a strategic military route in response to the 1968 invasion of Czechoslovakia by the Soviet Union.
• Its construction was both daring and costly, with an estimated 40 lives lost during the process.
• Its reputation as one of the world's greatest driving Roads was boosted when it was featured on BBC's Top Gear in 2009, where it was dubbed `the best Road in the world` by host Jeremy Clarkson.
• At the Road's peak, you can find the Capra Tunnel, the longest Road tunnel in Romania, which stretches for 887 meters.
• Along the route, travelers can find a variety of accommodations and traditional Romanian cuisine, making the journey both comfortable and culturally enriching.

A good choice for:

Traversing the Transfagarasan Road is more than a drive; it's an adventure through Romania's heart, offering a tapestry of historical sites, dramatic landscapes, and a testament to human tenacity and the quest for beauty. It stands as a bucket-list journey for Roadtrippers, nature lovers, and those who seek to immerse themselves in the cultural heritage and natural wonders of this unique corner of Europe.