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.
Find your way to your hotel in Craiova. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Romania. Settle in and make plans for the evening.
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.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Hotel Bavaria, a popular restaurant in Craiova. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Craiova at Mode Cafe, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Essenza Bar & Restaurant. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Craiova tonight.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Craiova and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Tipsy, known for its inviting atmosphere. Miky's Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Gelateria Scena provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
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.
Craiova is home to plenty of attractions that offer fun adventures, photo-friendly spots, and romantic experiences! Start at Castelul Fermecat, a worthwhile point of interest that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Continue your exploration at Zoo Park Craiova. This zoo is one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Craiova at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Nicolae Romanescu Park. After exploring the park, head to the intriguing Parcul Tineretului.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Craiova.
Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Craiova 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 The Manor Restaurant & Lounge, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Dream On Pub is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurant Baba Novac. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Craiova tonight.
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 delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Soho, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Da Vinci. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Acsa, another top-rated place in the area.
Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Romania!
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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On day 3 of your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure, you’ll have the chance to visit more than one remarkable area in Romania. Since this self-drive tour offers freedom and flexibility, you can decide how much time you want to spend in each place to enjoy the memorable travel destinations in Romania.
Get ready for an exciting day in Craiova. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a botanical garden, an art gallery, and a museum. Begin your adventure at "alexandru Buia" Botanical Garden. This is an underrated botanical garden you should not miss. Another must-see is Art Museum Of Craiova, an up-and-coming art gallery in Craiova.
When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Oltenia's Museum Of History And Archaeology. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Oltenia Museum - Department Of Natural Sciences, another of the city’s often recommended attractions.
When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Bucharest. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.
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 delicious meal at Coftale Specialty Coffee Shop, a highly-rated dining destination in Bucharest. If you're eager to try something different, consider PAPILA, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Complex Herăstrău. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bucharest this evening.
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 The Vintage Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Newton Cocktail Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Qp Pub provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Romania!
Day 4
- Bucharest
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Drive 82 km, 2 hours 1 min
- Ştirbey Domain
- Therme Bucharest
- Edenland Park
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Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Romania continues on day 4, 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 4 nights left in Bucharest, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.
Immerse yourself in Bucharest’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Ştirbei Domain. This history-steeped castle is sure to ignite your curiosity. Next, dive into the visually striking features of Therme Bucharest, a must-visit spa in the town.
In between sights, stop by local stores, picturesque photo spots, and small eateries. When you’re ready for your next attraction, proceed to Edenland Park, a locally appreciated adventure park.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bucharest and your accommodation.
Exploring the food culture in Bucharest offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Bruno Wine Bar & Bistro, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Hanu' Berarilor Casa Oprea Soare offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Vatra Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic 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.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Control Club after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to Wicked Bar for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Manasia Hub is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.
Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in 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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On day 5 of your relaxed road trip across Romania, you’ll explore the area around Bucharest, where you’ll be staying for another 3 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.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Bucharest allows for both. Start by heading to Snagov Forest. This beloved nature reserve provides an insightful glimpse into the municipality's identity. Next, discover Ferma Animalelor, a picture-perfect petting zoo, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to Cernica Monastery, a worthwhile monastery. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the beloved Pasărea Monastery.
When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Bucharest.
After a laid-back day of exploring top attractions in the area, it’s an excellent idea to sit down for a lovely and peaceful dinner. We’ve collected the most recommended restaurants in the city for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Bucătărașul, a highly-rated dining destination in Bucharest. If you're eager to try something different, consider Aubergine Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at SkyBar. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bucharest this evening.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Bucharest’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Romania.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Origo. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Pub Bucharest, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Coppa Coffee & Wine Bar Dorobanti provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience 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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On day 6 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Romania, you’ll go deep into Bucharest, where you'll stay for 2 nights, 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!
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Bucharest on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. King Mihai I Park is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this idyllic park before continuing your journey. Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum In Bucharest is your next stop. This well-known museum is one of the best-rated sights in Bucharest.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum. This respected museum is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Bucharest Fountains and "alexandru Ioan Cuza" Park.
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 the food culture in Bucharest offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Phoenicia Grand Hotel, a top-rated dining spot in Bucharest. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hanu' Berarilor Casa Elena Lupescu, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Stadio Unirii. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Bucharest.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Bucharest’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Romania.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Zeppelin Pub, a prime location for a drink.
Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment 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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Day 7 of your relaxed road trip through Romania means 24 hours of making the best memories in Bucharest. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Bucharest. In the evening, you will experience one of the most popular dining spots in the city. So buckle up and prepare to be blown away by Bucharest!
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bucharest, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at Tineretului Park, an interesting park in the city.
There are many interesting places to see in Bucharest, and when you are ready for more, go to Children's Town Bucharest. This is one of the city’s most interesting visually striking spots of interest.
Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Romania more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Bucharest offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.
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.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Auchan, a highly-rated dining destination in Bucharest. If you're eager to try something different, consider Osho, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Bab. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Bucharest this evening.
If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Bucharest and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.
Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Bucharest!
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.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bucharest today. One of the most well-known attractions included on the itinerary is Cișmigiu Gardens. This romantic park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to National Museum Of Art Of Romania and learn what makes this standout museum unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the interesting Romanian Athenaeum. After exploring the concert hall, head to Izvor Park. This captivating park is a highlight in Bucharest. As your day continues, stop by Carol Park, known for its romantic features.
You’ll be staying at the incredible city of Craiova in this laid-back road trip in Romania. You'll stay here for 1 night.
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.
Make sure to reserve a table at Hotel Meliss, an iconic dining spot in Craiova. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of One Garden, a popular restaurant in Craiova. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Hotel Emma Est, a hidden gem nestled in Craiova. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
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 Craiova. The bars in Craiova make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Old Court Biergarten. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Street Cafe, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, The 20's provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in 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.
On your last day in Romania, take time to indulge in shopping at Craiova’s popular marketplace, Electroputere Parc Mall. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, begin at Craiova. This up-and-coming palace is a popular place to see in the city.
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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