Romania Road Trip: 3 Routes

Romania is vast, diverse, and made for a road trip: from the peaks of the Carpathians to castles and medieval towns, all the way to the Black Sea coast and the Danube Delta, many highlights are within easy reach. In this guide, we present three varied road trips (6–10 days), including practical timing and planning tips, city parking advice, and a compact toll guide for Romania. Secure your digital vignette in advance so you can use national roads and motorways with ease.

Before You Go: Planning Is Everything!

The perfect itinerary for your road trip mainly depends on how much time you have and what type of traveler you are. Romania offers enough highlights for several holidays. From vibrant cities like Bucharest, Constanța and Sibiu to secluded mountain regions and coastal stretches, you can discover it all here. Decide in advance whether your focus should be on culture & cities, hiking & nature or sea & the Danube Delta.

• Trip duration 5–6 days: Ideal for a compact route with 1–2 cities and a hiking area or coastal section. Lots to see, less time for extended relaxation.
• Trip duration 7–10 days: Perfect for combining several regions, such as Bucharest – Carpathians – Transylvania or Carpathians – Retezat – Banat Mountains, or Bucharest – Danube Delta – Black Sea – Dobrogea.

Tips from us

As a rule of thumb, we recommend: plan 1–3 hours of driving per day and no more than two activities. That leaves enough room for spontaneous photo stops, a café break in a village, or a short hike. A road trip is not a race—it's a journey full of in-between moments. Also keep the season in mind:

• May to October: Best time for Carpathian passes, hikes and city trips. Higher passes such as the Transfăgărășan (Transfăgărășan Highway) are usually only open in summer.
• July to August: Peak season is ideal for the Black Sea and the Danube Delta. However, expect more traffic and accommodations in seaside resorts to book out early.
• December to March: For winter fans: combine cities with ski resorts such as Sinaia, Poiana Brașov, Straja, Predeal, Paltiniș or Semenic.

If you travel on public holidays or during school vacations, expect heavier traffic around Bucharest, Brașov, Sibiu and along the coast. Plan key legs early in the morning or into the evening.

Romania by Car: Starting Points & City Parking

Your starting point depends on how you travel—by plane or with your own car:

• Bucharest: Ideal start for combining the capital, the Carpathians and the Black Sea.
• Sibiu or Cluj-Napoca: Perfect for road trips through Transylvania, the Făgăraș Mountains, Apuseni and Retezat.
• Timișoara: Convenient when arriving via Hungary; ideal for the Banat Mountains, Semenic and Retezat.
• Constanța: Perfect for a loop along the coast, to the Danube Delta and the Măcin Mountains.

Wondering where to park near the cities? Here are valuable tips on parking in Romania:

• In Bucharest, Brașov, Sibiu and Constanța, city centers are largely organized as "parcare cu plată" (paid parking zones). Payment is often possible via parking meters, SMS or apps such as TPARK or UPPARK.
• Around old towns (e.g., Brașov, Sibiu), a parking garage or a large public car park on the edge often makes sense. From there it's usually only a 5–15 minute walk to pedestrian areas.
• In popular seaside towns like Constanța, parking can become scarce and more expensive in summer. Allow some extra time to search or check options in advance.
• Guarded car parks ("parcare păzită") provide extra security if you have lots of luggage or expensive equipment in the vehicle.

In general: Old town and city center = better on foot. Park a little outside and enjoy the rest on foot or by public transport.

Road Trip 1: Carpathian Classics & City Highlights (7–10 Days)

This route is perfect if you're traveling in Romania for the first time and want to see the most famous highlights: the capital, castles, high-mountain panoramas, and one of the country's most beautiful old towns. The hikes are mostly easy to moderate.

• Bucharest: capital vibes & starting point (1–2 nights)
• Sinaia: Peleș Castle & access to the Bucegi Mountains (1–2 nights)
• Brașov & Bran Castle: medieval town & "Dracula" scenery (2 nights)
• Transfăgărășan Highway & the Făgăraș Mountains: spectacular mountain road (1–2 nights)
• Sibiu: charming old town (1–2 nights)

Bucharest (1–2 nights)

Start your road trip in Bucharest. The city combines historic façades and buildings with a surprisingly young food and nightlife scene. Walking suggestion: Lipscani Old Town, see the Palace of Parliament from the outside, perhaps visit a museum (e.g., the Village Museum), and enjoy dinner in a traditional restaurant serving Romanian cuisine.

Bucharest parking tips to keep in mind when you arrive:

• The old town is largely pedestrian-only. It's best to park in a parking garage or guarded car parks on the edge.
• Use apps or SMS parking to buy tickets in paid zones. Many hotels in the city center offer their own parking spaces or partner with garages—asking in advance is worthwhile.
• Avoid peak traffic times (especially weekday evenings) when leaving the city—this saves nerves and time.

Sinaia & the Bucegi Mountains (1–2 nights)

From Bucharest, it's about a 2-hour drive to the mountain town of Sinaia. Here, Peleș Castle awaits—one of Europe's most magnificent residences, beautifully set among forests and parkland.

Spend a day with:

• Visiting Peleș (and possibly Pelișor), plus a stroll through the castle park
• Exploring Sinaia with its hotels and cafés in Belle Époque style
• Optional: take the cable car or gondola up into the Bucegi Mountains for short panoramic walks and views over the Prahova Valley

Parking in Sinaia: There are designated (paid) parking areas around the castle and in the center. In high season, arrive early as parking fills up quickly. Some accommodations have their own parking.

Brașov & Bran Castle (2 nights)

Next, head towards Brașov. One of Romania's most beautiful cities, with a colorful old town, the Black Church, and a large central square—definitely not to be missed.

Plan for:

• 1 day in Brașov: stroll through the old town, visit the Black Church, the city walls, and optionally take the cable car up to Mount Tâmpa.
• Half to a full day at Bran Castle: visit the castle (known as the "Dracula Castle") and walk through the village of Bran. (Read more: Bran Castle)

Parking in Brașov:

• There are many "parcare cu plată" zones (parking meters / SMS) around the old town. Compared to Western Europe, rates are usually moderate.
• In peak season, parking right next to the center can be full. Use public car parks or garages a bit farther out and walk the last few minutes.
• Motorhomes can sometimes find spaces on larger car parks above the city (e.g., on the road towards Poiana Brașov). Checking camper apps is worthwhile.

Parking in Bran: There are several paid car parks at the castle. In peak season, arrive early or visit later in the afternoon once tour groups have left.

Transfăgărășan Highway & the Făgăraș Mountains (1–2 nights)

Via the Prahova or Bârsa region, continue towards the Transfăgărășan. This high-mountain road connects Wallachia and Transylvania and is considered one of Europe's most spectacular drives. (Read more: Transfăgărășan Highway)

Highlights along the way:

• Hairpin bends with plenty of photo stops
• Stop at Bâlea Lake: short loop walk and views of the surrounding peaks
• Depending on your fitness: easy to moderate hikes to viewpoints or ridgelines in the Făgăraș Mountains

Season note: The high-alpine section of the Transfăgărășan is only open in summer (typically around July to October, depending on weather). The upper pass section is closed the rest of the year; Bâlea Lake may then be reachable by cable car. Be sure to check the current road status in advance.

Parking: There are several paid parking areas along the road at Bâlea Lake. On good-weather weekends, arrive early. In lower areas (e.g., near reservoirs), you'll find additional parking spots for photo stops and short walks.

Sibiu (1–2 nights)

To wrap up the first road trip, you'll reach Sibiu (Hermannstadt). The city impresses with its squares (Large and Small Square), the famous "eye houses," and the Bridge of Lies. (Read more: Sibiu)

Recommendations:

• Old town walk with a visit to lookout towers
• Browse cafés and restaurants around the Large Square
• Optional: short detour into the surrounding area, e.g., to villages with fortified churches

Parking in Sibiu:

• There are several public car parks and parking garages around the historic old town. If you want to park close to the center, use official parking areas (including near Piața Unirii or on the edge of the Lower Town).
• Most parking is paid and can be paid via machines, SMS or an app.
• With larger vehicles (e.g., motorhomes up to 3.5 t), checking camper apps is worthwhile—many users recommend car parks near the old town with enough space.

From Sibiu, you can return to Bucharest (approx. 4–5 hours’ drive) or combine your trip with additional road trips.

Road Trip 2: Carpathians in Depth, Hiking Areas & Mountain Lakes (8–10 Days)

This road trip is a dream for hikers and nature lovers. It connects several of Romania’s most important hiking regions: the Southern Carpathians, Western Carpathians and Retezat. Many of your existing contents on hiking and ski areas can be linked perfectly here.

• Sibiu or Cluj-Napoca: city start (1 night)
• Apuseni Mountains (Western Carpathians): Apuseni Nature Park & Padiș Plateau (2–3 nights)
• Hunedoara (optional): castle & stopover (1 night)
• Retezat National Park: high mountains & mountain lakes (2–3 nights)
• Semenic & Banat Mountains: forests & plateaus (1–2 nights)
• Timișoara or Sibiu: city finale (1 night)

Start in Sibiu or Cluj-Napoca (1 night)

Depending on flight connections, it can be worth starting in Sibiu or Cluj-Napoca. Both cities offer attractive old towns, plenty of restaurants, and a good base to pick up a rental car and take care of last-minute shopping.

Parking: In both cities, the old town is partly traffic-calmed. Use public parking garages or guarded car parks on the edge of pedestrian areas and explore the center on foot.

Apuseni Mountains & Apuseni Nature Park (2–3 nights)

From Cluj or Sibiu, head into the Western Carpathians, more precisely the Apuseni Mountains. Gentle elevations, karst landscapes, caves, and traditional villages characterize this region.

Possible places to stay overnight:

• Villages such as Gârda de Sus or Arieșeni with guesthouses and mountain lodges
• Accommodation on the Padiș Plateau for short distances to hikes

Activities you’ll remember for a long time and that will bring you even closer to nature:

• Hikes through karst landscapes and gorges
• Visits to caves (e.g., ice caves) on guided tours
• Easy loop trails across meadows and through forests—ideal for families too

Since many villages are small, you’ll usually park right at your accommodation. For day trips, use car parks at trailheads or cave entrances (some free, some with a small fee).

Hunedoara (optional, 1 night)

On the way to Retezat, you can stop in Hunedoara. Here you’ll find the impressive Corvin Castle, one of Romania’s most famous castles—ideal for an afternoon tour and photo stop.

Parking: There are designated car parks near the castle, set up for visitors.

Retezat National Park (2–3 nights)

The Retezat National Park is a high-mountain paradise with more than 20 larger mountain lakes and numerous peaks above 2,000 meters. Trails range from short walks to lakes to long day hikes to summits and ridgelines. (Read more: Retezat National Park)

Recommendation for 2–3 nights:

• Day 1: arrival in the valley, relaxed walk to a lower-altitude lake or viewpoint
• Day 2: big day hike to mountain lakes or a summit (only with suitable gear and stable weather)
• Day 3 (optional): another half-day hike or a relaxed day in the valley

Parking & infrastructure: The roads into the valleys are sometimes narrow and not always in perfect condition, but generally manageable with a standard car. At the trailheads, there are parking areas (some paid). Arrive early if you want to do popular routes.

Semenic & Banat Mountains (1–2 nights)

Afterwards, continue into the Banat Mountains and the Semenic Mountains. This region is quieter than many other Carpathian areas and is perfect for slowing down after intensive Retezat days.

What to expect here:

• Gentle mountain ridges, forests and plateaus
• Easy hiking routes and forest tracks, ideal for hiking or cycling
• In winter, the Semenic ski area

Parking & staying overnight: Many accommodations offer their own parking. In towns and ski areas, there are larger parking lots where motorhomes can also fit.

Timișoara or Sibiu (1 night)

To round things off, consider staying in Timișoara (Art Nouveau, squares, cafés) or returning to Sibiu. Enjoy a final city stroll and a great dinner before heading home.

Parking tips: As in the other cities: park on the edge of the center, use a parking ticket or app, and explore downtown on foot.

Road Trip 3: Coast, Danube Delta & Dobrogea (6–9 Days)

This road trip is for anyone who wants to combine sea, river landscapes and gentle hills. You start in the capital, experience geological highlights, explore the unique Danube Delta, and relax on the Black Sea coast—before lacing up your hiking boots again in the Măcin Mountains.

• Bucharest: capital start (1 night)
• Mud volcanoes of Berca: natural phenomenon (½–1 day)
• Tulcea & Danube Delta: boat trips & nature (2–3 nights)
• Constanța & Black Sea coast: harbor, old town & beach (2–3 nights)
• Măcin Mountains/Dobrogea: Romania’s oldest mountain range (1 night)

Bucharest (1 night)

Use your arrival day to get a quick first impression of Bucharest. A walk through the old town, a look at the Palace of Parliament from the outside, and dinner are enough for a first introduction. The next morning, continue towards Berca.

Mud Volcanoes of Berca (half to full day)

The mud volcanoes of Berca are a geological highlight: mud rises to the surface from small craters, creating a barren, almost otherworldly landscape. Short loop trails run through the area and offer plenty of photo opportunities. (Read more: Mud Volcanoes Berca)

Parking: Near the entrance area, there are parking spaces, usually for a small fee. Sturdy shoes and sun protection are recommended, as there is hardly any shade.

Tulcea & Danube Delta (2–3 nights)

From Berca, continue to Tulcea, the gateway to the Danube Delta. Plan for at least two (ideally three) nights here.

Possible activities:

• Boat excursions on different routes, from short trips to full-day tours
• Birdwatching: pelicans, herons and many other species
• Visiting villages in the delta with traditional houses

Parking: In Tulcea, there are several parking options around town. Some accommodations offer parking for guests or can recommend guarded parking while you explore the delta by boat.

Constanța & Black Sea Coast (2–3 nights)

Next stop is Constanța, the most important port city on Romania’s Black Sea coast. Here, historic buildings, the famous Casino, beach areas and a seaside promenade come together. (Read more: Constanța)

Recommended activities:

• Walk to the promenade and the Casino
• Stroll through the old town with its mosque, churches and squares
• Beach days in Constanța or in the nearby resort of Mamaia

Parking in Constanța:

• Around the old town and waterfront areas, there are numerous paid parking zones (sometimes app/SMS-based). In peak season, allow extra time to find a spot.
• Many hotels on the coast offer their own parking or reserved spaces—an advantage when booking, especially in high season.

Măcin Mountains / Dobrogea (1 night)

On the way back west, it’s worth detouring to the Măcin Mountains in the Dobrogea region. Geologically one of Europe’s oldest mountain ranges—today a gentle hilly landscape, ideal for leisurely hikes.

What to expect:

• Well-marked trails with wide views over hills, Danube branches and fields
• Dry, almost steppe-like vegetation combined with oak forests
• Quiet nature without large crowds

Parking & hiking: At the entrances to national park hiking routes, there are designated car parks. Bring enough water—depending on the season, it can get very hot.

From here, return to Bucharest or—if you have time—continue to other regions, e.g., Transylvania, to combine further road trips.

Romania Toll Guide

To ensure your road trip runs smoothly, here are the most important facts about tolls in Romania. You can find detailed information in our guide to tolls in Romania.

Digital Vignette (Rovinieta) for Vehicles up to 3.5 t GVW

To use most national roads and motorways, a digital vignette (Rovinieta) is mandatory. It is license-plate-based. That means you no longer need a sticker and avoid the hassle of scraping it off. Within built-up areas you don’t need a vignette, but as soon as you use a vignette-required road, it must be valid.

Distance-Based Tolls & Bridges

In addition to the vignette, Romania has distance-based fees, e.g., for certain Danube bridges, ferries or specific sections. These are charged separately (often at toll stations) and are not included in the vignette. Watch for relevant signage.

Vehicles Over 3.5 t GVW

For trucks and heavy motorhomes over 3.5 t GVW, separate distance-based toll systems apply. Check in advance which system is relevant for your vehicle and how billing works. Our support team will be happy to help if you have questions.

Vignettes Are Country-Specific

Romania’s digital vignette is valid only in Romania. Neighboring countries (e.g., Hungary, Bulgaria, Austria, Slovakia) may also have vignette or toll systems. We offer digital vignettes for multiple countries—ideal if your road trip crosses borders.

Why DMC’s Digital Vignette Is the Right Choice

The DMC Digitale Maut Consulting GmbH makes your trip to Romania especially easy:

• Fast online purchase in just a few minutes
• Preferred start date for optimal planning
• Email support in 15 languages
• Many years of experience with digital vignettes in several European countries
• Transparent information on fines, vehicle classes and special routes

Practical Tips for Your Road Trip in Romania

Finally, here are a few pointers to include in your planning:

• Schedule: On weekends and during holiday periods, roads (especially between Bucharest and Brașov or along the coast) can be busier. Drive longer legs early or late in the day.
• Traffic rules: Stick to speed limits and alcohol limits. You can find more information in our guide to traffic rules in Romania.
• Parking & apps: In many cities, parking works via SMS or app. You’ll usually find details on the parking signs. Keep SMS confirmations.
• Respect nature: Stay on marked trails, especially in national parks and protected areas, and take your trash with you.
• Camping & camper stops: Wild camping is officially prohibited in national parks and protected areas. In general, campers are often tolerated in Romania—still, prefer official campsites or designated camper stops and follow local rules.
• Mountain weather: In the Carpathians, the weather can change quickly. Pack a rain jacket, warm layers and sturdy shoes—even in summer.
• Fuel: There are many gas stations in cities and along main routes. In remote mountain regions, distances can be greater—so top up early.

The DMC Team Wishes You a Pleasant Journey

With these three road trips, you’ll experience Romania in all its variety: capital flair, Carpathian panoramas, fairytale castles, traditional villages, the Danube Delta and the Black Sea. Secure your digital vignette in advance with your preferred start date and enjoy maximum freedom on your route.

We wish you a safe trip, unforgettable views and many little moments that will make your road trip through Romania truly unique. Feel free to use our route planner to display all required toll products. You’ll also find more detailed information about tolls and vehicle classes in our guide. If you have any questions, please contact us anytime via email.

Romania FAQ: Frequently Asked Travel Questions

Do I need a vignette for a road trip in Romania?

Yes. For vehicles up to 3.5 t GVW, a digital vignette (Rovinieta) is required to use most national roads and motorways. It is linked to your license plate, purchased online, and can be valid immediately or from a preferred start date.

Does the vignette cover all roads and bridges?

The vignette applies to most national roads and motorways. For certain bridges, ferries or special sections (e.g., Danube bridges), additional fees apply. These must be paid separately and are not included in the vignette.

Can I buy the digital vignette at short notice?

Yes. The digital vignette can be ordered online at short notice. When purchasing, you choose whether it should be valid immediately or from a preferred date. Important: the vignette must be active before you drive on a vignette-required road. Buying it afterwards does not protect you from fines.

Is the Romanian vignette also valid in Hungary, Bulgaria or Austria?

No. Vignettes are country-specific. The Romanian vignette is valid only in Romania. For travel through other countries (e.g., Hungary or Austria), you need separate vignettes or must use the local toll systems. With us, you can combine multiple digital vignettes for your travel countries.

How does parking work in Romanian cities?

In many cities, there are paid parking zones around the centers ("parcare cu plată"). Payment is often made via parking meters, SMS or smartphone apps. The details are shown on the parking signs. For visiting the old town, it’s usually easiest to leave your car in a parking garage or a large car park on the edge and explore the center on foot.

Which vignette validity period is best for my road trip?

For trips of around a week, a 7-day vignette is usually sufficient. For road trips of 2–4 weeks, a 30-day vignette is ideal. Anyone who travels to Romania more often or plans a longer break benefits from a 90-day or 12-month vignette. With us, you can also purchase your digital vignette as a 10-day vignette flat rate!

Is wild camping allowed in Romania?

In many regions, free-standing with a motorhome is possible, but not in national parks and protected areas, where it is prohibited. Prefer official campsites or camper stops, follow local rules, and leave nature clean—then nothing stands in the way of a relaxed road trip.

Why should I order the digital vignette from DMC?

DMC Digitale Maut Consulting GmbH offers you:

• a fast, digital purchase without a sticker vignette,
• a preferred start date for your travel planning,
• 15-language email support for questions,
• clear information on the toll system, vehicle classes and fines,
• and, if desired, vignettes for multiple European countries—perfect for your road trip.