10-Day Romania Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Bucharest traveling west to Râmnicu Vâlcea, Făgăraș, Brasov, and Ploiești
Description
Included
Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Romania as you embark on an unforgettable 10-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Bucharest, Râmnicu Vâlcea, Sibiu, Făgăraș, Rupea, Vâlcea, Bran, Brasov, Sinaia, Bușteni, Ploiești, Snagov, Dumbrăveni, and Balotești.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Romania takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 4 nights in Bucharest, 1 night in Râmnicu Vâlcea, 1 night in Făgăraș, 2 nights in Brasov, and 1 night in Ploiești. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Romania. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Bucharest, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Romania on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Romania. Bran Castle and Peleș Castle are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery.
As you hit the open road and drive through Bucharest, Râmnicu Vâlcea, Sibiu, Făgăraș, Rupea, Vâlcea, Bran, Brasov, Sinaia, Bușteni, Ploiești, Snagov, Dumbrăveni, and Balotești, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Romania. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Romania.
Throughout your road trip in Romania, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Romania.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Romania fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Romania today!
Itinerary summary
See a summary of the itinerary that you can fully customize
Personalize your itinerary
Customize tours under each day and destination
Day 1 – Bucharest - arrival day
- Bucharest - Arrival day
- More
Welcome to Bucharest, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Romania! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 3 nights immersing yourself in Bucharest's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.
Bucharest is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.
Find your way to your hotel in Bucharest. 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 in Bucharest. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Coftale Specialty Coffee Shop, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try PAPILA? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Complex Herăstrău as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Bucharest.
Cap off your dinner by heading to The Vintage Pub, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. Newton Cocktail Bar is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Qp Pub is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Raise a toast to the start of your 10-day road trip in Romania!
Day 2 – Bucharest
- Bucharest
- More
Drive 24 km, 1 hour 19 min
- Alexandru Ioan Cuza Park (I O R )
- “Grigore Antipa” National Museum of Natural History
- The Triumphal Arch
- King Mihai I Park (Herăstrău) CA
- "Dimitrie Gusti" National Village Museum
- Romanian Athenaeum
- More
On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Bucharest. You’ll stay in Bucharest for 2 nights and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.
Start by visiting "alexandru Ioan Cuza" Park, a prime spot to begin your journey. This peaceful park is sure to impress. Next on your list is Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum, another must-visit landmark and interesting museum renowned for its eye-catching features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Bucharest by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Arcul De Triumf Bucharest. This picture-perfect monument is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. King Mihai I Park also adds charm to your journey, and Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum In Bucharest wraps up your day with its eye-catching appeal.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Romania is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Bucharest's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
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.
Continue your lively evening at Control Club, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Wicked Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Manasia Hub ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Romania!
Day 3 – Bucharest
- Bucharest
- More
Drive 11 km, 1 hour 11 min
- Cișmigiu Gardens
- Izvor Park
- Children's World Park
- Tineretului Park
- Romanian Athenaeum
- More
Day 3 of your road trip across Romania promises a magnificent time exploring Bucharest. You have 1 night left in Bucharest. Take the opportunity to experience more of the best attractions and activities in the city.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Bucharest, featuring a charming, a majestic, a gorgeous, an instagrammable, a historically significant, and a masterful. Start at Cișmigiu Gardens, a notable park in the city. Then, head to Izvor Park and soak in the ambiance of this serene park.
There are many interesting places to see in Bucharest and when you are ready for more, go to Constitution Square. This is one of the city’s most captivating spots. After exploring the public square, visit the interesting "children's World" Park. Before wrapping up your self-guided sightseeing tour, head to the captivating Tineretului Park, a captivating park in the city.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Romania is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Bucharest's best restaurants.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Restaurant Bucătărașul, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Aubergine Restaurant offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, SkyBar is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Bucharest.
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.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Romania.
Day 4 – Bucharest and Râmnicu Vâlcea
- Bucharest
- Vâlcea
- More
Drive 178 km, 2 hours 44 min
- National Museum of Art
- Romanian Athenaeum
- Bucharest Botanical Garden
- More
Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Romania. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Bucharest. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Râmnicu Vâlcea. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s route brings a photogenic, a historic, a romantic, a beautiful, and a mesmerizing. The first attraction of today is National Museum Of Art Of Romania. This increasingly popular museum is a history-steeped place to see in Bucharest. Continue your discovery at "dimitrie Brândză" Botanical Garden, a peaceful botanical garden with stories to tell.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Râmnicu Vâlcea, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Râmnicu Vâlcea. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Have a fantastic dining experience at Gallo Nero, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Hanul Haiducilor offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Restaurantul Belvedere is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Râmnicu Vâlcea.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Soho Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Clubwinners offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Brothers Pub provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Say good night to Râmnicu Vâlcea and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Romania!
Day 5 – Râmnicu Vâlcea, Sibiu, and Făgăraș
- Vâlcea
- Sibiu
- Făgăraș
- More
Drive 190 km, 3 hours 32 min
- The Bridge of Lies
- The Large Square
- Dumbrava Sibiului Natural Park
- More
Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Romania. Today, you will make 1 stop and experience some of the highlights of Sibiu. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Făgăraș, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Sibiu today.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.
When you’ve had your share of Râmnicu Vâlcea, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Sibiu. Your travel time is around 1 hour 49 min.
Make your way to The Bridge Of Lies, a well-known historical landmark that draws attention for its romantic features. Spend some time soaking in the atmosphere before continuing to The Large Square, an enchanting public square that stands out in the city. Next, visit Citadel Park, a beloved park that offers a unique experience. Be sure to also explore Dumbrava Sibiului Natural Park, a nearby park, which is highly recommended by other travelers.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Făgăraș. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Făgăraș. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at BRICKS brasserie & cafe, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Casa Terra offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Transilvania. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Făgăraș.
Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Romania!
Day 6 – Făgăraș, Rupea, Vâlcea, Bran, and Brasov
- Făgăraș
- Rupea
- Vâlcea
- Bran
- Brasov
- More
Drive 182 km, 3 hours 31 min
- Rupea Citadel
- Bran Castle
- More
On day 6 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Romania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Rupea, Vâlcea, and Bran. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Brasov, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Făgăraș, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Rupea may take around 50 min. Upon your arrival in Rupea, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Rupea Citadel is an interesting castle we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.
Set your GPS to Vâlcea and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 46 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Vâlcea beckons with new experiences!
Take your self-guided tour to Mănăstirea Rupestră Șinca Veche, a worthwhile monastery that everyone visiting Vâlcea should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Vâlcea, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Bran may take around 49 min. Upon your arrival in Bran, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Take your self-guided tour to Bran Castle, a famous castle that everyone visiting Bran should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Brasov. Brasov offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.
Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Brasov's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Cucinino Pasta Bar, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Am Rosenanger is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at La Birou Bistro. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Brasov tonight.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Musik Cafe, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Michele Pub is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Juno Wine Garden also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Head back to your accommodation in Brasov and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Romania!
Day 7 – Brasov
- Brasov
- More
Drive 24 km, 1 hour 11 min
- Turnul Alb
- The Council Square
- More
Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Brasov for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.
Brasov is home to plenty of attractions that offer a stunning, a visually striking, a historic, a grand, a romantic, and an idyllic! Start at The White Tower, a frequently visited monument that is worthwhile a visit in the city. Nearby, you’ll find Brașov City Hall, enchanting visitors with its visually striking appeal. Continue your exploration at Nicolae Titulescu Park. This park is one of the city’s most locally appreciated spots.
Enjoy the freedom of exploring Brasov at your own pace and find hidden gems along the way. If you want to see more picture-perfect spots, make sure to visit Tâmpa.
Don’t forget to check out all the popular tours and activities you can add to your road trip itinerary. Romania is a beautiful travel destination that offers plenty of unique tours that will enhance your vacation experience. Explore and select your activities below.
As you explore more of Brasov, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Make sure to book a table at Viva la Vida Bistro-Hostel, a popular restaurant in Brasov. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Brasov at Opus 9, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Romantik. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Brasov tonight.
Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Kasho Lounge stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Karma Lounge offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. Street Cafe is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.
As the day draws to a close, take a moment to unwind and prepare for the next exciting chapter of your road trip in in Romania.
Day 8 – Brasov, Sinaia, Bușteni, and Ploiești
- Brasov
- Sinaia
- Bușteni
- Prahova County
- More
Drive 126 km, 2 hours 51 min
- Peleș Castle
- Sinaia Monastery
- Dimitrie Ghica Park
- Cantacuzino Castle
- More
Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Romania. Today you will explore Sinaia and Bușteni, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Ploiești. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Sinaia, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Brasov to Sinaia may take around 57 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sinaia, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Take your self-guided tour to Peleș Castle, a spectacular castle that everyone visiting Sinaia should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Next, head to Sinaia Monastery. This picture-perfect monastery is one of the most popular attractions in the region. Don’t miss out on Dimitrie Ghica Park, an eye-catching park, popular among locals as well as travelers.
After soaking in Sinaia’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Bușteni. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 12 min. When you arrive in Bușteni, it's time to take a break from the road.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Cantacuzino Castle. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Ploiești, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.
As you explore more of Ploiești, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.
Don’t miss out on dining at Restaurant Elisium, a top-rated dining destination in Ploiești. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Dublin GrillHouse Pub, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant The New London. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Ploiești this evening.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Ks Pub, known for its inviting atmosphere. Tony's Bikers Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Terasa Veritas provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Romania.
Day 9 – Ploiești, Snagov, Dumbrăveni, Balotești, and Bucharest
- Prahova County
- Snagov
- Dumbrăveni
- Balotești
- Bucharest
- More
Drive 111 km, 2 hours 7 min
- Therme Bucharest
- More
On day 9 of your road trip in Romania, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Snagov, Dumbrăveni, and Balotești. In the evening, you’ll end up in Bucharest, where you will stay for 1 night.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Snagov allows for both.
Snagov’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Ploiești behind. This drive usually takes around 46 min. Snagov welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
Begin your journey at Snagov Forest and explore the serene features.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Dumbrăveni. This drive usually takes around 28 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Make your way to Edenland Park, a beloved adventure park that draws attention for its picture-perfect features.
When you’ve had your share of Dumbrăveni, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Balotești. Your travel time is around 21 min.
Therme Bucharest is a captivating spa we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Bucharest. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Bucharest. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Make sure to book a table at Phoenicia Grand Hotel, a popular restaurant in Bucharest. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bucharest at Hanu' Berarilor Casa Elena Lupescu, a popular local restaurant. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. Another top-rated restaurant to try is Stadio Unirii. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Bucharest tonight.
Explore the vibrant nightlife at Zeppelin Pub after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments.
Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Romania!
Day 10 – Bucharest - departure day
- Bucharest - Departure day
- More
- "Carol I" Park
- Romanian Athenaeum
- More
Day 10 of your road trip in Romania is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Bucharest before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
Maximize your last day in Romania and go on a shopping spree in Bucharest’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Romania.
Immerse yourself in Bucharest’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary. Start your journey at Carol Park. This romantic park is sure to ignite your curiosity.
Before you conclude your road trip in Romania, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Bucharest.
If you're in the mood for something new, try Osho, another premier location with a delectable menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Bucharest. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Romania!
Similar travel packages
Discover other popular vacations in Romania
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.