THE ULTIMATE ROMANIA ROAD TRIP | COMPLETE 11 DAY ITINERARY
Known for ornate castles, charming villages, and stunning natural landscapes, Romania is a must-see for any adventure lover. However, it’s also become more touristy over the last few years. When we decided to road trip through Romania, we wanted to see the off-the-beaten-path sites that most tourists aren’t even aware of!
On this 11 day itinerary with Romanian Thrills, you'll travel to some of the most unique places in the country while also getting to experience Romanian life and culture firsthand.
Day 1: Arrive in Bucharest
Romania’s bustling capital is the first stop on your itinerary. However, the flight to Romania is a long one – so you’ll likely be tired from the flight and jet lag. But if you’re like us, you’ll be bursting with excitement to explore this new destination.
Although it lacks the charm of a classic European destination, Bucharest has plenty of restaurants, shops, and museums if you’re dying to see the city.
Day 2: Visit the villages of Horezu and Maldaresti
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Your first full day in Romania will be spent exploring the picturesque towns of Horezu and Maldaresti. It's somewhat of a long drive from Bucharest (~3.5 hours), but you'll get to see the rural villages and outskirts as you make your way inland.
Horezu is known for handmade ceramics, which you can find all over town. If you’re feeling extra artsy, you can attend a workshop or class to make your own unique piece of pottery.
From there, head to Maldaresti to admire century-old fortified mansions dotted throughout the town.
Day 3: Driving the Transalpina
Today is an adventure day as you travel to the lush mountains of the Southern Carpathians. No trip here would be complete without driving along the Transalpina, the highest paved road in all of Romania. You can do the entire drive in 3 hours, although plan to make several stops to take photos or to admire the forested landscape.
There’s plenty to do here, including hiking or paragliding. If you really feel adventurous you can even try out a slackline hammock! You can also bring a picnic or stop for lunch at one of the mountain-side chalets.
This is a must try dessert - papanasi!
Day 4: Hiking the Cerna Valley
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Grab your boots and water bottle and get ready to trek one of the most unspoiled parts of the country. The hike will take you to Eftimie Murgu, which is considered to be the most isolated village in the country.
The town is home to 22 historic water mills, including the Rudaria, the biggest milling system in Europe. They still make their own flour from grain using traditional methods (which you can buy and take home with you as a souvenir).
Day 5: Boat ride on the Danube
You can't visit Romania without seeing the Danube! Besides the wetlands, forests, and mountains, this area is also full of interesting sites and attractions. You can see the ruins of a Roman bridge, a monastery, and karst caves. But the highlight of the ride is the rock sculpture of Decebalus – Romania’s version of Mount Rushmore!
Day 6: Venture through Nera Gorge National Park
Romania's largest park is a wonderland of lush valleys, craggy mountains, and sparkling blue lakes. You'll also find dozens of cascading waterfalls, including the iconic mushroom-shaped Bigăr Falls.
Hiking is the best way to see the park (there are barely any roads). But if you’re feeling more adventurous, you can also go kayaking or white water rafting along the river.
Our delicious breakfast at our b&b
Day 7: Train ride through the mountains
Built in the mid-1800s, the Oravita to Anina railway is the oldest railway in Southeast Europe. It’s still operating to this day, and you can hop on board to experience the breathtaking views of the mountains for yourself.
From there, you can easily visit the Densus Church, the oldest stone church in the country. Rumours have it that it was actually built as a pagan temple, although others believe it was originally used as a mausoleum.
Sunset from our b&b
Day 8: Explore Corvin’s Castle
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The castles in Romania are some of the most architecturally stunning buildings we’ve ever seen. And Corvin’s Castle is no exception. With red-roofed towers and massive stone bridges, it’s the largest (and arguably most beautiful) castle in the country.
Nearby, you can also visit Sarmizegetusa Regia, which contains ruins of a capital city built by the Dacians almost 2,000 years ago.
Day 9: Learn about Romani’s Gold Rush in Roșia Montană
Not many people know that Romania was once a prominent gold mining country. Although the mines have since closed due to cyanide concerns, you can still explore this area to learn about its rich history. Visit the museum, shop for handicraft souvenirs, or admire what would have become Europe’s largest open-pit mine.
Views from Raven’s Nest Hot Tub
Day 10: Wander through Sibiu
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When it comes to colourful Romanian towns, you can’t beat the beauty of Sibiu. From the medieval churches to the winding, cobblestone alleys, Sibiu is a vibrant destination that you could get lost in for hours.
Make sure to grab coffee or lunch on the Piata Mare, the large square right in the heart of town. Or visit the Tower of the Council or Brukenthal National Museum to learn more about Transylvanian history and culture.
Day 11: Depart from Bucharest
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After a whirlwind travelling through Romania, it’s finally time to say goodbye to this spectacular country. But before you head back to Bucharest, make a pit stop at Carta to visit the oldest Cistercian monastery in Europe.
The drive back is roughly 4 hours, although you’ll get to experience the Transfagaransan highway. The zig-zagging hairpins and stunning views of the Carpathian Mountains make it one of the most iconic roads in the world.
Although you could easily spend weeks or months in Romania, 11 days is a good amount of time to get a feel for the country. And with this itinerary, you’ll get to see another side of the country that tour groups and tourists don’t’ usually travel to. Now that’s the real way Romania is meant to be seen!
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