Transfagarasan Highway

The Transfăgărășan is a mountain pass road across the Carpathians and the second-highest road in Romania. It is also known as the "Snake Road" or "the Great Dragon" and is considered one of the most beautiful high-altitude roads in the world. Officially, it bears the name DN7C (National Road 7C). As a national road, it is subject to a vignette requirement, meaning you need the Romanian vignette (Rovinieta) to use it.

The road connects Wallachia, south of the Carpathian arc, with Transylvania in the north – from Curtea de Argeș to Cârțișoara.

Although it is often described as being around 90 km long, the Transfăgărășan actually measures around 150 km. The best-known 90 km stretch offers spectacular views and winding routes through the mountains. You should allow about 3 hours for the drive. The highest point is at 2,042 m. Over 800 bridges and viaducts, tunnels with ever-changing views, and tight hairpin bends with gradients of up to 8.6% make this route a true driving experience.

Highlights of the region

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If you'd like to plan a hike, the highest point of the road is an ideal destination: Lake Bâlea, a glacial lake. It is a popular starting point for hikes and a perfect spot to take a break and enjoy the impressive nature in peace.

There are several accommodation options along the pass road. Some hotels are hard to reach, while others are located right on the road. Since many bears live in the region, guests may sometimes be warned not to leave their accommodation. You may also be lucky enough to spot bears during the drive – please always stay inside the vehicle and treat the animals and nature with respect.

Besides the landscape, a visit to Poenari Castle (Cetatea Poenari) near Arefu is also worthwhile, as it is known as a possible residence of Count Dracula.

Climate and accessibility

In summer, temperatures are usually between 15 and 25 °C, although the weather is changeable. In winter, the road is closed due to snow and temperatures below −10 °C. It is generally only open from July 1 to October 31. However, in winter there are ski slopes, Eastern Europe's first ice hotel, and a cable car to Lake Bâlea.

Since being featured on the show "Top Gear", the Transfăgărășan has become especially popular. It can get very crowded, particularly around midday. If you want to avoid traffic, you should set off early in the morning.

The Europamaut team wishes you a pleasant trip!

The Transfăgărășan is definitely worth a visit. Breathtaking views, challenging roads, and ever-changing perspectives make this high-altitude road an unforgettable experience. We recommend driving the route outside peak times, ideally early in the morning. We wish you a pleasant trip to Romania and lots of fun on your road trip. For more information on tolls in Romania, check out our guide. Feel free to also use our route planner to optimally plan your trip. If you have any questions, we're happy to help anytime via email.