Relaxed 9-Day Romania Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Craiova to Bucharest
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Description
Discover Romania stress-free with this 9-day relaxed road trip, winding through Craiova, Mofleni, Bucharest, Buftea, Balotești, Dumbrăveni, Snagov, Pantelimon, and Pasărea. Enjoy a relaxing self-drive holiday through stunning landscapes and calm adventures.
This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Romania at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Craiova, Mofleni, Bucharest, Buftea, Balotești, Dumbrăveni, Snagov, Pantelimon, and Pasărea. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 3 nights in Craiova and 5 nights in Bucharest. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Romania.
Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Romania. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Craiova, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 9-day journey across Romania and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.
Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Romania with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Romania.
We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Romania. This relaxed road trip features the stunning King Mihai I Park. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Therme Bucharest.
Traveling leisurely through Romania means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Tineretului Park. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Cișmigiu Gardens. Get close to the spectacular "alexandru Ioan Cuza" Park and the wonderful Children's Town Bucharest. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.
Enjoy strolling through Romania's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Romania.
Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Romania. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Romania's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Romania.
This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Romania. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 8 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 9 days of your self-drive road trip in Romania. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.
This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.
Spend an amazing 9-day vacation in Romania and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Romania today!
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Day 1
- Craiova - Arrival day
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- Centrul Vechi al Craiovei
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Your relaxed road trip through Romania starts when you reach the incredible city of Craiova, where you'll stay for 2 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Craiova and begin your adventure in Romania.
Craiova is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Craiova's Old Town, or just taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Craiova. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Romania. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Craiova, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Don’t miss out on dining at Hotel Bavaria, a top-rated dining destination in Craiova. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Mode Cafe, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Essenza Bar & Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Craiova this evening.
Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Craiova. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.
Keep the evening going at Tipsy, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to Miky's Pub, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Gelateria Scena, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.
Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Romania. Enjoy your first taste of Craiova as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.
Day 2
- Craiova
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Drive 13 km, 33 min
- Castelul Fermecat
- Suspended Bridge
- Zoo Park Craiova
- Nicolae Romanescu Park
- Parcul Tineretului
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On day 2 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Craiova and visit amazing attractions in Craiova and Mofleni destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Craiova. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Craiova. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! Castelul Fermecat is the perfect place to start. This point of interest is one of the most locally appreciated places to visit in Craiova.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Zoo Park Craiova. This eye-catching zoo is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Nicolae Romanescu Park and Parcul Tineretului. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Craiova and your accommodation.
When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Craiova, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at The Manor Restaurant & Lounge, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Dream On Pub offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurant Baba Novac. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Craiova.
Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Craiova.
Unwind after your meal by stepping into Soho. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Da Vinci offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Acsa, another top-rated bar in the area.
Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Craiova!
Day 3
- Craiova
- Bucharest
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Drive 238 km, 3 hours 18 min
- Alexandru Buia" Botanical Garden
- "Craiova" Art Museum
- Oltenia Museum | History and Archeology Section
- Oltenia Museum - Department of Natural Sciences
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Day 3 of your self-drive tour in Romania is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Bucharest for 5 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Romania.
Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Craiova. Some of the city’s most loved attractions await! "alexandru Buia" Botanical Garden is the perfect place to start. This botanical garden is one of the most frequently visited places to visit in Craiova. Next, head to Art Museum Of Craiova, an underrated art gallery, known for its photogenic features.
In between the sights, don’t hesitate to take small detours to explore local stores and eateries. When you’re ready to continue your adventure, head to Oltenia's Museum Of History And Archaeology. This photogenic museum is a highly recommended experience. Nearby, you'll also find Oltenia Museum - Department Of Natural Sciences. Visit these for an interesting touch to your journey.
After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Bucharest. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Romania by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Bucharest has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Coftale Specialty Coffee Shop, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, PAPILA offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Complex Herăstrău is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bucharest.
If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Romania.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting The Vintage Pub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Newton Cocktail Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Qp Pub also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Look back at an amazing day filled with adventure in Romania. And don’t forget to get some rest so you can continue your relaxed holiday in Romania tomorrow with new energy.
Day 4
- Bucharest
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Drive 82 km, 2 hours 1 min
- Ştirbey Domain
- Therme Bucharest
- Edenland Park
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On day 4 of your relaxed road trip across Romania, you’ll explore the area around Bucharest, where you’ll be staying for another 4 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Bucharest will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Romania.
Bucharest is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, romantic experiences, and scenic views! Start at Ştirbei Domain, an underrated castle that is worthwhile a visit in the town. Nearby, you’ll find Therme Bucharest, enchanting visitors with its romantic appeal. Continue your exploration at Edenland Park. This adventure park is one of the town’s most worthwhile spots.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Bucharest.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Romania. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Bucharest, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Make sure to reserve a table at Bruno Wine Bar & Bistro, an iconic dining spot in Bucharest. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hanu' Berarilor Casa Oprea Soare, a popular restaurant in Bucharest. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Vatra Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Bucharest. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Control Club, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Wicked Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Manasia Hub provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Romania.
Day 5
- Bucharest
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Drive 115 km, 2 hours 40 min
- Snagov Forest
- Ferma Animalelor
- Cernica monastery
- Pasărea monastery
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Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Romania continues on day 5, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Romania and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Bucharest and beyond. With 3 nights left in Bucharest, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Bucharest, including a nature reserve, a petting zoo, and a monastery. Start your adventure at Snagov Forest. This underrated nature reserve is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Ferma Animalelor located in Bucharest for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Cernica Monastery. Its stunning features will captivate you. After the monastery, continue your tour of the municipality with a visit to Pasărea Monastery. Visitors usually appreciate the stunning features of this monastery.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bucharest and your accommodation.
When you’re not driving and exploring some of the best places in Romania, it’s time to make your relaxed road trip even more comforting. Sit down for a lovely meal at one of the best restaurants in Bucharest.
Dine in style at Restaurant Bucătărașul, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Aubergine Restaurant boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out SkyBar. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bucharest.
As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Bucharest. The bars in Bucharest make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Origo, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Pub Bucharest offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Bucharest. Coppa Coffee & Wine Bar Dorobanti is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
A leisurely self-drive holiday in Snagov can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Romania!
Day 6
- Bucharest
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Drive 23 km, 57 min
- King Mihai I Park (Herăstrău) CA
- "Dimitrie Gusti" National Village Museum
- “Grigore Antipa” National Museum of Natural History
- Bucharest Fountains
- Alexandru Ioan Cuza Park (I O R )
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Day 6 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bucharest, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Romania are extraordinary.
Today’s itinerary in Bucharest covers several incredible sights, including a park, a museum, and an art installation. Start your adventure at King Mihai I Park. This astonishing park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the picture-perfect wonders of Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum In Bucharest, a must-see museum in the city.
Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum. This locally renowned museum offers an enriching experience. For a change of pace, head to Bucharest Fountains, where you can take in awe-inspiring features. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to "alexandru Ioan Cuza" Park. These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.
Make the most of your time in the country by joining activities that let you discover more about Romania. Check out all of the tours you can join this day of your leisurely self-drive holiday in Romania and ensure the experience of a lifetime.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Bucharest has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Phoenicia Grand Hotel, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Hanu' Berarilor Casa Elena Lupescu is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Stadio Unirii. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Bucharest tonight.
Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Bucharest.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Zeppelin Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting.
Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Romania!
Day 7
- Bucharest
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Drive 14 km, 37 min
- Tineretului Park
- Children's World Park
- Children's Town Bucharest
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On day 7 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Romania, you’ll go deep into Bucharest, where you'll stay for 1 night, and see some of the city’s unforgettable attractions. To learn more of the city's culture, you'll also dine at the most popular restaurants in Bucharest, and meet locals along the way!
Prepare for a day full of family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. When you’re ready, kick off your sightseeing adventure at Tineretului Park. This popular park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is "children's World" Park, one of the city’s best highlights.
Next, check out Children's Town Bucharest, one of the most interesting places to see in Bucharest. This amusement park is a favorite among locals and travelers alike.
Romania makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun exploration. Aside from amazing sights, Romania also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.
When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Bucharest, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Auchan, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Osho offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Le Bab is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bucharest.
After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.
Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Romania!
Day 8
- Bucharest
- Craiova
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Drive 244 km, 3 hours 47 min
- Cișmigiu Gardens
- National Museum of Art
- Romanian Athenaeum
- Izvor Park
- "Carol I" Park
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Day 8 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Romania is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. You’ll stay in Craiova for 1 night.
Get ready for a day filled with family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders in the charming city of Bucharest. Your adventure starts at Cișmigiu Gardens, a locally renowned local hot spot. Another notable attraction to explore is National Museum Of Art Of Romania. This up-and-coming museum is known for its mesmerizing appeal.
After soaking in the highlights of these sights, take some time to wander Bucharest's streets and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. When you're ready to continue your sightseeing adventure, head to Romanian Athenaeum. This romantic concert hall offers a fascinating experience that many visitors find memorable. Izvor Park is also worth visiting, along with Carol Park. These standout landmarks offer unique experiences that add to the day’s enjoyment.
Continue your laid-back road trip exploration of the best attractions in Romania at Craiova. Select from top hotels and accommodations in the city to recharge and rejuvenate.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Romania. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Craiova, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Hotel Meliss, a top-rated dining destination in Craiova. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider One Garden, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Hotel Emma Est. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Craiova this evening.
Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Craiova.
After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Old Court Biergarten, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, Street Cafe offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Craiova. The 20's is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.
Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Romania.
Day 9
- Craiova - Departure day
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- Administrative Palace of Craiova
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Day 9 of your relaxed road trip in Romania is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Craiova.
Explore local shops for souvenirs to remember your trip or find unique gifts for loved ones.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Craiova, an instagrammable palace before you head out.
Unwind and look back at the past 9 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Craiova or just grab something light to keep you going.
Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Craiova and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 9-day relaxed road trip in Romania is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.
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