Travel information Romania

From the majestic Carpathians to picturesque cities like Bucharest or Sibiu, Romania is a country full of diversity. Are you planning a holiday in Romania with your own car or motorhome? Then here you will find all the important information about entry requirements, traffic rules, and tolls. Additionally, we have summarized valuable safety tips and Romania travel tips for you.

Travel Information Romania – Key Points at a Glance

EU citizens only need a valid ID card or passport to enter Romania.
The maximum speed on highways is 130 km/h, and within cities, it is 50 km/h.
To use highways and expressways in Romania, a vignette for Romania is required.
In case of emergency, you can reach the police, fire department, and medical services by dialing emergency number 112.
The best time to travel to Romania is from April to October, when the weather is pleasantly mild.

Entry Requirements for Romania

As an EU citizen, you can stay in the country for up to 90 days without a visa. You only need a valid ID card or passport. If you plan to stay longer, you will need a residence permit.

ID Requirement: In Romania, you must always carry a valid ID. Make sure the document is valid for the entire duration of your trip.
Entry with Minors: Children also require their own ID. If a child is traveling with only one parent, a written consent from the other parent is recommended.
Bringing Pets: If your dog or cat is traveling with you, they will need an EU pet passport and proof of a valid rabies vaccination.

Driving in Romania

Driving in Romania is easy and safe, but you should familiarize yourself with the traffic rules in Romania in advance. Road conditions may vary, especially in rural areas.

Traffic Rules in Romania: What You Should Know

The traffic rules are similar to those of other EU countries. However, there are some specific rules for traveling in Romania:

Speed Limits in Romania:

Within cities: 50 km/h
On country roads: 90 km/h
On expressways: 100 km/h
On highways: 130 km/h

Additional Traffic Rules in Romania:

There is a strict blood alcohol limit of 0.0%.
On highways and outside built-up areas, you must use your headlights during the day.
Winter tires are mandatory in winter conditions.

Fines:

Adhere to traffic rules and local regulations. Otherwise, violations can result in hefty fines.

Vignette and Tolls in Romania

To use the highways and expressways, a vignette in Romania is required. This applies to vehicles of all weight classes (including those over 3.5 tons) as well as trailers.

Buying a Vignette for Romania:

The digital vignette for Romania can be easily purchased online. This ensures you choose the correct vignette for your trip and allows you to drive with peace of mind. Alternatively, you can also buy the vignette at sales points near border crossings.

Toll Prices in Romania: The Romanian vignette is available in different types, depending on the validity period and vehicle class. The prices for passenger cars are as follows:

Fueling and Charging in Romania

Fueling in Romania works just like in other EU countries. Fuel prices are often lower than in Western Europe. Gas stations are well distributed in cities and along major roads, and you will also find plenty of options in rural areas. Payments can usually be made by cash, credit card, or mobile phone.

For electric cars, there is a growing network of charging stations, especially in major cities and along major traffic routes. It is recommended to plan the locations of the charging stations in advance, as they are rarer outside of cities.

Traveling in Romania: Safety and Health

Romania is considered a safe travel destination. In recent years, conditions have consistently improved. However, you should still observe some basic Romania travel tips.

Emergency number: The crime rate in Romania is low, but it is recommended to keep an eye on your valuables, especially in tourist areas.
Travel advisories: Check the current travel advisories from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before your trip to stay up-to-date.
Health insurance: EU citizens are covered in Romania with the European Health Insurance Card.
Medical care: Medical services are good in cities, though rural areas may have limitations. Pharmacies are widely available.
Weather conditions: Especially in the Carpathians, weather can change rapidly. Keep updated on current conditions.
Road conditions in Romania: Road conditions may be poorer in rural areas or mountains. Especially in winter, it is advisable to carry snow chains and use winter tires.

Holiday in Romania: Tips & Recommendations

What should you generally keep in mind when traveling in Romania? And what should you absolutely not miss? Here are our top Romania travel tips and recommendations:

Climate and Travel Time:

The best time to travel to Romania is from April to October. The summer months are ideal for hiking, 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 issues, translation apps can help.

Currency and Payment Methods:

The currency is the Romanian Leu (RON). Credit cards are widely accepted in most shops, but in rural areas, it is advisable to carry enough cash.

Sights in Romania:

Romania has many places worth visiting. Here are some of the most beautiful cities in Romania and other landmarks:

Bucharest: The capital of Romania is known for its mix of modern and historical architecture. Highlights include the Parliament Palace and the Old Town.
Sibiu: This medieval town in the heart of Transylvania is known for its cobblestone streets and the Large Square.
Bran Castle: The famous Dracula’s Castle in the Carpathians is one of Romania’s most visited attractions.
Transfăgărășan Highway: One of the most spectacular roads in the world! It winds through the Carpathians and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Retezat National Park: This national park is a paradise for hikers, offering pristine nature, crystal-clear lakes, and diverse wildlife.

Regional Specialties:

Culinary specialties: Try dishes such as Mămăligă (polenta) and Sarmale (cabbage rolls), two of Romania’s most famous foods.
Festivals and Traditions: In rural areas and markets, you can buy unique handmade works like carpets, ceramics, and wood carvings.
Wine Culture: Romania has a long tradition of winemaking. The Dobrogea region is particularly known for its high-quality wines.

Travel Information Romania: Conclusion

Historical cities, picturesque mountain landscapes, and majestic castles: traveling in Romania offers something for everyone. Make sure to follow the entry requirements, traffic rules, and take care of your vignette in advance. With the right preparation, your Romania road trip will be a success!

FAQs

What do I need for entry to Romania?

For entry to Romania, EU citizens need a valid ID card or passport. You can stay in the country for up to 90 days without a visa.

When is the best time to travel to Romania?

The best time to visit Romania is from April to October. The weather is mild and ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing.

Can I pay with euros in Romania?

No, the euro is generally not accepted in Romania. The currency is the Romanian Leu (RON). Credit cards are widely accepted in most tourist areas and cities.

What does the vignette for Romania cost?

The cost of a vignette for Romania varies depending on the validity period, validity dates, and vehicle class. Here are the prices for passenger cars:

What should I know when driving to Romania?

For entry and stay, you need a valid ID document. Also, be sure to follow the traffic rules in Romania, especially the strict 0.0% blood alcohol limit, the headlight requirement, and the winter tire obligation in snowy conditions. If you plan to use the highways and expressways, make sure to purchase a vignette in advance.