Travel information Romania
From the majestic Carpathians to picturesque cities such as Bucharest or Sibiu: Romania is a country full of diversity. Are you planning a holiday in Romania with your own car or motorhome? Then you'll find all the important information on entry requirements, traffic regulations, and tolls here. We've also compiled valuable safety tips as well as Romania travel tips for you.
Travel information Romania: The essentials at a glance
EU citizens only need a valid ID card or passport to enter Romania.
The maximum speed on motorways is 130 km/h, and in built-up areas it is 50 km/h.
On the entire national road network, i.e. on motorways, expressways, and national roads, a vignette for Romania (Rovinieta) is required.
In emergencies, you can reach the police, fire department, and emergency services on the emergency number 112.
The best time to travel in Romania is from April to October, when the weather is pleasantly mild.
Entry requirements for Romania
As an EU citizen, you don't need a visa. A valid ID card or passport is sufficient for entry, and it must remain valid up to and including the day of departure. Anyone staying longer than three months must register with the Romanian authorities.
ID requirement: In Romania, you must always carry a valid ID with you. Make sure the document remains valid for the entire trip.
Entry with minors: Children also need their own ID. If a child is traveling with only one parent, a written consent form from the other parent is recommended.
Bringing pets: Is your dog or cat coming along? Then the animal needs a microchip, a valid rabies vaccination, and an EU pet passport.
Driving in Romania
Driving in Romania is simple and safe, but you should familiarize yourself with the traffic regulations in Romania beforehand. Road conditions can vary, especially in rural areas.
Traffic regulations in Romania: What you should know
The traffic regulations are similar to those of other EU countries. Nevertheless, there are some particularities when traveling in Romania:
Maximum speed in Romania:
In built-up areas: 50 km/h
On rural roads: 90 km/h
On European roads (E-roads) outside built-up areas: 100 km/h
On expressways: 120 km/h
On motorways: 130 km/h
Differing traffic regulations in Romania:
There is a strict blood alcohol limit of 0.0 per mille.
On all roads, even within built-up areas, dipped headlights or daytime running lights must be switched on during the day.
Winter tires are mandatory in wintry conditions.
Fines:
Please observe the traffic regulations and local rules. Otherwise, violations can result in high fines.
Vignette and toll in Romania
A vignette for Romania (Rovinieta) is required for all Romanian national roads, including motorways and expressways. It applies to cars and motorhomes regardless of weight; trailers do not need their own vignette, and motorcycles are exempt. From 1 October 2026, freight vehicles over 3.5 t will pay the distance-based toll TollRo.
The digital vignette for Romania can easily be purchased from us online. This way, you can be sure to choose the optimal vignette for your trip and set off without worry. Alternatively, the vignette is also available at sales points around the border crossings.
Charging and refueling in Romania
Refueling in Romania works just like in other EU countries. Fuel prices are often cheaper than in Western Europe. Petrol stations are well distributed in cities and along major roads. You'll also find plenty of options in rural areas. In most cases, you can pay by cash, credit card, or mobile phone.
There is a growing network of charging stations for electric vehicles, especially in major cities and along main traffic routes. It's recommended to plan the locations of charging stations in advance, as they are still less common outside the cities.
Traveling in Romania: Safety and health
Romania is considered a safe travel destination. Conditions have continued to improve, especially in recent years. Nevertheless, you should keep a few basic Romania travel tips in mind.
Safety: The crime rate in Romania is low. Nevertheless, it is advisable to always keep an eye on your valuables, especially in tourist areas. The Federal Foreign Office points out, among other things, the presence of bears in the Carpathians (e.g. on the Transfăgărășan) and warning messages via RO-Alert. Emergency number: 112.
Travel advisories from the Federal Foreign Office: Before your trip, check the current travel advisories from the Federal Foreign Office to stay up to date.
Health insurance: EU citizens are covered in Romania with the European Health Insurance Card.
Medical care: Medical care is good in cities, but there may be limitations in rural areas. Pharmacies are widespread.
Weather conditions: Especially in the Carpathians, weather can change quickly. Therefore, check the current conditions regularly.
Road conditions in Romania: Road conditions can be somewhat poorer in rural regions or in the mountains. Especially in winter, you should carry snow chains and use winter tires.
Holiday in Romania: Tips & recommendations
What do you generally need to be aware of when traveling in Romania? And what should you definitely not miss? Here are our most important Romania travel tips and recommendations:
Climate and travel time
The best time to travel to Romania is between April and October. The summer months are ideal for hikes, road trips, and city tours.
Language and communication
The official language is Romanian, but English is commonly spoken in tourist areas. If there are communication problems, translation apps can help.
Currency and payment methods
The national currency is the Romanian Leu (RON). In most shops, you can easily pay by credit card, but in rural areas, it's worth having enough cash on hand.
Romania sights
Romania has many worthwhile places to see. Here are some of the most beautiful cities in Romania and other sights:
Bucharest: The capital of Romania is known for its mix of modern and historic architecture. Highlights include the Palace of the Parliament and the old town.
Sibiu: This medieval town in the heart of Transylvania is known for its cobblestone alleys and the Great Square.
Bran Castle: The famous Dracula's Castle in the Carpathians is one of the most visited attractions in Romania.
Transfăgărășan road: One of the most spectacular roads in the world! It winds through the Carpathians and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain landscape.
Retezat National Park: This national park is a paradise for hikers, offering unspoiled nature, crystal-clear lakes, and diverse wildlife.
Regional particularities:
Culinary specialties: Try dishes like Mămăligă (polenta) and Sarmale (cabbage rolls), two of the most well-known Romanian dishes.
Festivals and customs: Whether carpets, ceramics, or wood carvings: especially in rural areas and at markets, you can buy unique handmade artworks.
Wine culture: Romania has a long tradition of winemaking. The Dobrogea region, in particular, is known for its high-quality wines.
The Europamaut team wishes you a pleasant trip!
Historic towns, picturesque mountain landscapes, and majestic castles: traveling in Romania offers something for every taste. Pay attention to the entry requirements and traffic regulations, and take care of your digital vignette in good time. With the right preparation, nothing stands in the way of your Romania road trip! You can find more detailed information on the toll in Romania in our guide. If you have any further questions, feel free to contact us by email.
FAQs
Answers to the most common questions on this topic.
What do I need to enter Romania?
To enter Romania, EU citizens need a valid ID card or passport. EU citizens do not need a visa. Anyone staying longer than three months must register with the Romanian authorities.
What do I need to be aware of when driving to Romania?
For entry and your stay, you need a valid identification document. Also note the traffic rules in Romania, in particular the strict 0.0 per mille blood alcohol limit, the requirement to use lights at all times, and the winter tire requirement under winter conditions. For all national roads, including motorways and expressways, you also need a vignette (Rovinieta) in advance.