Road Network Romania
Although Romania is an extremely important connection between Central and Southern Europe, the road network still largely does not meet EU standards. There are weight restrictions on certain sections of road. Potholes and cracked concrete are also a problem, for example, as are traffic jams and aggressive drivers. This leads to costly detours, especially for vehicles responsible for transporting goods, as these tend to exceed the permitted weight.
In addition to the roads, drivers also exhibit a driving style that is not quite comparable to what we are used to and is considerably more unpredictable.
Since the condition of Romanian roads is especially important for tourists and holidaymakers to be able to enjoy their vacation safely and stress-free, we have summarized the most important facts for you in this article.
General overview of the road network
In Romania, a distinction is made between five different types of roads:
Motorways
National roads
Expressways
County roads
Municipal roads
Vignette requirement and special toll routes
It is important to know that you need a vignette for motorways and national roads. Like many other European countries, Romania charges tolls to finance the maintenance and expansion of the road infrastructure. You can purchase the so-called "Rovinieta" from us. The vignette, which is now only available digitally, is controlled by CNADNR, which belongs to the Ministry of Infrastructure and is specifically responsible for motorways and national roads. Further information on the vehicle classes subject to the vignette requirement can be found in our guide.
In addition to motorways and national roads, there is also a special toll that must be paid at some points. This special toll applies to any Danube crossings:
Danube Bridge: Ruse (BG) – Giurgiu (RO)
Danube Bridge 2: Vidin (BG) – Calafat (RO)
Bridge: Cernavodă (RO) – Fetești (RO)
Bridge: Giurgeni (RO) – Vadu Oii (RO)
However, urgent action is needed regarding the transport infrastructure so that the journey from one place to another doesn't remind you of a roller coaster ride, as Romania has one of the worst transport infrastructures in the European Union.
The Romanian motorway system
The Romanian motorway network covers approximately 928 km (as of 2022) and covers the most important transport routes in Romania. The A1 motorway is particularly important, running from the capital Bucharest through the country to the border with Ukraine. Unlike in Germany, motorways in Romania are marked with a green sign. Compared to many other roads in the country, the motorways are mostly well developed and have separate carriageways as well as numerous entrances and exits.
Nevertheless, by European standards, Romania has one of the smallest motorway networks. Only slightly more than 20 percent of the entire road network consists of motorways and national roads, which is why traffic jams are not uncommon.
Special roads
The Snake Road
The Transfăgărășan (DN7C) is one of the most famous high-mountain roads in Europe. With spectacular hairpin bends, waterfalls, and views of the Făgăraș Mountains, it is considered one of the most beautiful roads in the world.
The Transalpina
The Transalpina (DN67C), reaching up to 2,145 meters above sea level, is one of the highest roads in Romania. The approximately 148 km long route offers impressive views, charming villages, and a unique driving experience.
The Wine Road
The Wine Road between Ploiești and Buzău passes through the well-known Dealu Mare wine region. Along the route, numerous wineries invite you to taste and get to know Romanian wine culture.
The Europamaut team wishes you a pleasant journey
Despite the sometimes adventurous roads and reckless drivers, Romania is a fantastic choice for a road trip. The picturesque views and authentic landscapes quickly make you forget about uneven roads and stressful traffic situations. If everything goes according to plan, the road network will be further expanded by 2027 and will increasingly approach the standards known in Germany.
We wish you a pleasant trip to Romania and lots of fun on your road trip. Further information on tolls in Romania can be found in our guide. Feel free to also use our route planner to optimally plan your trip and be shown suitable toll products. If you have any questions, we are available at any time via email.
