Roads in Romania

Although Romania is an extremely important link between Central and Southern Europe, its 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 common issue, as are traffic jams and aggressive drivers. This often leads to costly detours, especially for vehicles responsible for transporting goods, as they tend to exceed the permitted weight limits.

In addition to the roads themselves, drivers in Romania often display a driving style that differs significantly from what many travelers are used to and can be considerably more unpredictable.

As the condition of Romanian roads is particularly important for tourists and holidaymakers who want to enjoy a safe and stress-free trip, we have summarized the most important facts for you in this article.

General overview of the road network

In Romania, there are five different types of roads:

• Motorways
• National roads
• Express roads
• County roads
• Municipal roads

Vignette requirement and special toll roads

It is important to note that you need a vignette to use motorways and national roads in Romania. Like many other European countries, Romania charges toll fees to finance the maintenance and expansion of its road infrastructure. The so-called “Rovinieta” can be purchased from us. This vignette is now only available in digital form and is monitored by the CNADNR, which is part of the Ministry of Infrastructure and is specifically responsible for motorways and national roads. Further information on vignette-required vehicle classes can be found in our guide.

In addition to motorways and national roads, there are also certain sections subject to a special toll. This special toll applies to all 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, there is still an urgent need for improvement in transport infrastructure, as traveling from one place to another can sometimes feel like a roller coaster ride. Romania has one of the poorest transport infrastructures in the European Union.

The Romanian motorway system

Romania’s motorway network covers approximately 928 km (as of 2022) and includes the country’s most important transport routes. One of the most significant motorways is the A1, which runs from the capital Bucharest across the country towards the Ukrainian border. Unlike in Germany, motorways in Romania are indicated by green signs. Compared to many other roads in the country, motorways are generally well developed and feature separated carriageways as well as numerous entry and exit points.

Even so, Romania has one of the smallest motorway networks in Europe. Only a little over 20 percent of the entire road network consists of motorways and national roads, which is why traffic congestion is not uncommon.

Special roads

The Serpentine Road

The Transfăgărășan (DN7C) is one of the most famous high mountain roads in Europe. With spectacular hairpin bends, waterfalls and panoramic views of the Făgăraș Mountains, it is considered one of the most beautiful roads in the world.

The Transalpina

The Transalpina (DN67C) is one of the highest roads in Romania, reaching altitudes of up to 2,145 meters above sea level. The approximately 148 km long route offers impressive scenery, charming villages and a truly unique driving experience.

The Wine Road

The wine route between Ploiești and Buzău runs through the well-known Dealu Mare wine region. Along the way, numerous wineries invite visitors to tastings and to discover Romanian wine culture.

The DMC team wishes you a pleasant journey

Despite the sometimes adventurous roads and reckless drivers, Romania is a fantastic choice for a road trip. Picturesque views and authentic landscapes quickly make you forget uneven roads and stressful traffic situations. If everything goes according to plan, the road network will continue to be expanded by 2027, gradually approaching the standards familiar from Germany.

We wish you a wonderful trip to Romania and lots of enjoyment on your road trip. Further information about tolls in Romania can be found in our guide. Feel free to use our route planner to optimally plan your journey and find suitable toll products. If you have any questions, you can reach us at any time by email.