Relaxed 10-Day Romania Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Timișoara to Hateg and Reșița

1 / 52
Timisoara, Romania. The Dome in Union Square, Banat historical region.
Perfect travel plans
Everything included
Fully customizable

Description

Included

Flights
Hotel
Select dates
Car rental
Select dates
Tours & tickets
Select dates
Travel plan
From A to Z
Travel agent
24/7 fast service

Description

Embark on this 10-day relaxed road trip in Romania, as Timișoara, Deva, Simeria, Hunedoara County, Hateg, Orăștioara de Sus, Geoagiu-Băi, Mălăiești, Bănița, Petroșani, Densuș, Sarmizegetusa, Reșița, and Bozovici welcome you with stunning sights, fun activities, and the freedom of a laid-back self-drive holiday!

Travel freely with this relaxed self-drive package in Romania, designed for comfort and exploration. Spend 5 nights in Timișoara, 3 nights in Hateg, and 1 night in Reșița, staying at top-rated hotels near the heart of each city. Between drives, indulge in local cuisine, sip refreshing drinks, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Romania.

Your journey starts in Timișoara, where your rental car with CDW insurance will be ready for pickup. Choose a vehicle that suits your style, then set off on your 10-day relaxed road trip in Romania to explore its rich culture, fascinating history, and stunning landscapes.

Every stop on this leisurely self-drive holiday comes with handpicked accommodations that make relaxation effortless. Choose from elegant 5-star hotels with breathtaking views or comfortable 3-star stays that offer excellent value, all providing a welcoming retreat after a day on the road.

With your self-drive itinerary in Romania already planned, you’ll enjoy the country’s most celebrated sights without the rush. Marvel at the stunning Castelul Corvinilor (corvins' Castle) and soak in the atmosphere of the magnificent Prislop Monastery.

Enjoy each stop as you explore the history, architecture, and character of each destination on this Romania road trip itinerary for 10 days.

As you travel between destinations, you’ll have plenty of time to explore local markets and boutique shops. These stops give you the chance to find unique souvenirs, taste regional specialties, and experience everyday life in Romania.

If you want to make your 10-day relaxed self-drive tour in Romania even more memorable, add optional tours or activities. Join a guided excursion, discover hidden neighborhoods, or spend an afternoon in your favorite market. Each choice deepens your connection to the places you visit.

Alongside these experiences, your laid-back self-drive package in Romania includes 9 nights in comfortable hotels, a rental car for 10 days, and convenient access to nearby dining options. You can also add flights and entry tickets to shape the trip exactly how you want it. With 24/7 travel support and a mobile app keeping your itinerary and documents organized, you can enjoy a relaxed drive and savor every mile of the road ahead.

Turn your travel plans into reality. Book your 10-day relaxed self-drive road trip in Romania today and enjoy a journey filled with discovery, freedom, and unforgettable moments!

Read more

Travel details

Set your travel details to find the best price

Flights

Round trip
Round trip
Travel dates

Travelers

Rooms

Flights

Compare and choose from the best flights to Timișoara

Car

Choose from the best car rental deals or see all options

Driver’s age is 30 - 65
I live in
Pick-up: 10:00
Drop-off: 10:00

Personalize your itinerary

Customize tours under each day and destination

Day1

Day 1

  • Timișoara - Arrival day
  • More
  • Union Square
  • More

Your relaxed road trip through Romania starts when you reach the incredible city of Timișoara, where you'll stay for 4 nights. You'll pick up your rental car in Timișoara and begin your adventure in Romania.

Timișoara 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 Piața Unirii. Taking a stroll in the city center is a great alternative. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Timișoara. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Romania. We recommend staying at a central location for easy access to key areas 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 Timișoara, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Hotel Boutique Casa del Sole, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Rivière Brasserie is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Homemade. As an establishment that consistently gains high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Timișoara tonight.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Timișoara. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Scârț, A Chill Place, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, The 80's Pub offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out La Pisici Cafe. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Raise a toast as you look back on the highlights of today’s relaxed road trip in Romania. Enjoy your first taste of Timișoara as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

Read more
Day2

Day 2

  • Timișoara
  • More

Drive 10 km, 34 min

  • Victory Square
  • The Old Town of Timișoara
  • Liberty Square
  • Botanic Park
  • Banat Village Museum
  • More

Day 2 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Timișoara, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Romania are extraordinary.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the locally renowned Victory Square and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, The Old Town Of Timișoara, a visually striking public square that draws visitors from far and near.

Continue your journey to Libertății Square In Timișoara, one of the city’s most locally appreciated spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the locally appreciated Botanic Park. When you're finished at the botanical garden, Banat Village Museum, Timișoara awaits your visit. This museum is a historic highlight on today's itinerary.

Another way to make your easygoing and relaxed road trip in Romania more special is by joining unique tours and activities. Timișoara offers a wide selection of experiences for every traveler.

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 Timișoara, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Don’t miss out on dining at Neața Omelette Bistro, a top-rated dining destination in Timișoara. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Cafeneaua Verde, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Zaza Restopub. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Timișoara this evening.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Timișoara and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

After savoring a delicious meal, step into the vibrant nightlife at Storia, where the evening is just getting started. In the same way, The Charlatan's Pub offers a unique charm perfect for experiencing the local bar scene in Timișoara. Csíki Beer House is another top-recommended bar that is sure to get you into the mood for some dancing and celebrating.

Savor the rest of the night and celebrate another incredible, relaxed road trip adventure in the magical Timișoara!

Read more
Day3

Day 3

  • Timișoara
  • More

Drive 15 km, 56 min

  • Parcul Uzinei
  • Roses Park
  • Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral
  • Alpinet Park
  • Bucovina Park
  • More

Day 3 of your relaxed road trip through Romania means 24 hours of making the best memories in Timișoara. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Timișoara. 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 Timișoara!

Whether you decide to explore Timișoara on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss.

To truly experience Timișoara, make sure to drop by Parcul Uzinei. This frequently visited park is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique vacation experience. Another sight you shouldn’t miss is Roses Park, Timișoara, one of the city’s best highlights.

Next, check out "three Holy Hierarchs" Metropolitan Cathedral, one of the most beloved places to see in Timișoara. This church is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. Enjoy some downtime and refreshments before continuing to your next stop, Alpinet Park. Wander around and soak in the mesmerizing atmosphere this park offers. Then, head to Bucovina Park, a top-rated park that adds another dimension to your 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, Timișoara has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Massimo, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? EL MAGUEY offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Sandy's diner. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Timișoara.

Before calling it a day, visit one of the best bars in Timișoara. There, you can look back on the highlights of today’s pleasant and invigorating travel experiences, have friendly conversations with locals, and unwind.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, D'arc Pe Mal offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Charlie's Pub is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Joy Pub is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Romania.

Read more
Day4

Day 4

  • Timișoara
  • More

Drive 10 km, 54 min

  • Regina Maria Park
  • Ion Creangă Children's Park
  • Muzeul Consumatorului Comunist
  • Scârț, a Chill Place
  • Clăbucet Park
  • More

On day 4 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Romania, you’ll go deep into Timișoara, 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 Timișoara, and meet locals along the way!

Visiting Regina Maria Park is always a good idea. This up-and-coming park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike.

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 Muzeul Consumatorului Comunist. This increasingly popular museum offers an enriching experience. Conclude your self-guided sightseeing tour with a visit to Clăbucet Park These sights offer a fulfilling end to a perfect day.

Romania makes the perfect setting for a calming but fun road trip experience. Aside from amazing sights, Romania also offers plenty of tours to enhance your relaxed road trip experience.

Exploring the food culture in Timișoara 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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Hotel Delpack, a popular restaurant in Timișoara. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Timișoara at Restaurant Casa del Sole, 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 The Drunken Rat Pub. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Timișoara tonight.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Irish Public House, a prime location for a drink.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Romania!

Read more
Day5

Day 5

  • Timișoara
  • Deva
  • Simeria
  • Hunedoara
  • Hateg
  • More

Drive 208 km, 3 hours 11 min

  • Citadel Park
  • Statue of Decebal
  • Arboretum Park Simeria
  • Castelul Corvinilor (Corvins' Castle)
  • More

Day 5 of your self-drive tour in Romania offers a chance to experience the country’s diversity. You’ll start your day in Deva and end it in Hateg. You’ll stay in Hateg for 3 nights. Along the way, you’ll glimpse local life and explore some of the most remarkable places in Romania.

Set your GPS to Deva and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 50 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Deva beckons with new experiences!

Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings. Take your self-guided tour to Citadel Park, a frequently visited park that everyone visiting Deva should see. Next, head to Statue Of Decebal.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop — Simeria, home to many well-known sights in the region. Keep in mind that your travel time from Deva to Simeria may take around 15 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Simeria, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Our first attraction recommendation in Simeria is Arboretum Park Simeria, an up-and-coming botanical garden that draws attention for its eye-catching features.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Hunedoara County. This car ride takes around 24 min.

Savor the day by heading to Castelul Corvinilor (corvins' Castle), an interesting castle that draws visitors from near and far.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you can relax in Hateg. Here, you can choose from the best hotels and other accommodations as you get to know more about the culture in the town.

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 town for you, so you can check out the menus and make your reservation in advance.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Hateg and unwind at the coolest bars in the town.

Toast to another unforgettable and relaxing road trip adventure in Romania!

Read more
Day6

Day 6

  • Hateg
  • Orăștioara de Sus
  • Geoagiu-Băi
  • More

Drive 215 km, 4 hours 9 min

  • Sarmizegetusa Regia
  • Gradistea Muncelului - Cioclovina Natural Park
  • Dacian Fortress Costesti
  • Clocota Fall
  • More

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip across Romania, you’ll explore the area around Hateg, where you’ll be staying for another 2 nights. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Hateg will make you fall even more in love with the town and uniqueness of Romania.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Orăștioara de Sus. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 9 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Savor the day by heading to Sarmizegetusa Regia, an underrated archeological site that draws visitors from near and far. When you're done, continue to Grădiștea Muncelului-cioclovina Natural Park, where you can soak in the majestic surroundings.

Next, explore Dacian Fortress Costesti, yet another curiosity-inducing place to see in the area.

Set your GPS to Geoagiu-Băi and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 28 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Geoagiu-Băi beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Clocota Fall. Spend some time admiring the idyllic features of the waterfall before you continue to your next stop.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Hateg and your accommodation.

When it’s time to eat, the town has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Hateg, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

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.

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.

Read more
Day7

Day 7

  • Hateg
  • Mălăiești
  • Bănița
  • Petroșani
  • More

Drive 170 km, 3 hours 22 min

  • Cetatea Mălăieşti
  • Banita Gorges
  • Bolii Cave
  • Parcul Carol Schreter
  • More

On day 7 of your relaxed road trip in Romania, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Hateg and visit amazing attractions in Mălăiești, Bănița, and Petroșani, just outside the town. You still have 1 night left in Hateg, so today is another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

When you’ve had your share of Hateg, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Mălăiești. Your travel time is around 19 min.

Mălăiești Fortress is an up-and-coming castle we recommend visiting today. Discover its breathtaking features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Mălăiești and set your GPS to Bănița. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 38 min. Upon reaching Bănița, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

For a more meaningful self-guided tour of the village's best attractions, visit Banita Gorges, an increasingly popular canyon that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring at your own pace before you continue your journey. Next, head to Bolii Cave and admire its scenic features.

Petroșani’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bănița behind. This drive usually takes around 12 min. Petroșani welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Parcul Carol Schreter, a worthwhile park in Petroșani. Explore its instagrammable features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

When you’re done exploring the area’s best attractions, you’ll drive back to your accommodation in Hateg.

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 Hateg.

Experience the amazing nightlife in Hateg and unwind at the coolest bars in the town.

Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Romania!

Read more
Day8

Day 8

  • Hateg
  • Densuș
  • Caraș-Severin
  • More

Drive 174 km, 3 hours 16 min

  • Bison Nature Reserve
  • Densuș Church
  • More

On day 8 of your laid-back road trip adventure in Romania, you can visit several remarkable places. With the freedom and flexibility of a self-drive tour, you decide how much time to spend in each, making the most of these memorable destinations.

Bison Nature Reserve is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This instagrammable nature reserve is sure to impress.

Set your GPS to Densuș and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 36 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Densuș beckons with new experiences!

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Densuș Church. Spend some time admiring the stunning features of the church before you continue to your next stop.

In Reșița, you’ll find plenty of places to unwind after a day on the road. Our top recommendations go perfectly with your laid-back road trip in Romania.

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 Reșița.

Dine in style at Pizzeria & Trattoria Napoli, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Coda Vinci Trattoria&Rosticceria boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Coda Vinci Terasa Trandafirul. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Reșița.

As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Reșița’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Romania.

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Soho House, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Time provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Soho Wet offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

Grab a drink and enjoy every passing minute of this night of your relaxed road trip experience in Romania!

Read more
Day9

Day 9

  • Caraș-Severin
  • Bozovici
  • Timișoara
  • More

Drive 202 km, 3 hours 30 min

  • Fântâna cinetică
  • Bridge Vama
  • Bigar Cascade Falls
  • Izvorul Bigăr
  • More

Day 9 of your relaxed road trip across Romania offers a day of exciting discoveries. You’ll start your day in Reșița and drive in the direction of Bozovici for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in Timișoara, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the intriguing Fântâna Cinetică and allow yourself time to explore.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bozovici. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 4 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

When you're ready for some sights, head to Bigar Cascade Falls, a worthwhile waterfall in Bozovici. Explore its majestic features at your own pace before you continue your journey to your next attraction, Izvorul Bigăr. This up-and-coming waterfall is a top recommendation in the area.

Continue your laid-back road trip in Romania as you make your way to Timișoara. Here, you’ll find top hotels and accommodations in the city, perfect for relaxing and recharging.

Exploring new places makes you hungry. Luckily, Timișoara has multiple restaurants that offer fantastic dining experiences to continue your laid-back and stress-free discovery of the city.

Don’t miss out on dining at Paradisul Piraților, a top-rated dining destination in Timișoara. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Little Hanoi - The Taste of Vietnam, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Miorița. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Timișoara this evening.

After dinner, it’s time to fall in love with the amazing nightlife in Timișoara and unwind at some of the best bars in the city.

Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back road trip adventure across Romania.

Read more
Day10

Day 10

  • Timișoara - Departure day
  • More
  • Theresia Bastion
  • More

Day 10 of your relaxed road trip in Romania is your departure day. If you’re flying home, return your rental car with time to spare. For a stress-free farewell, book a later flight and enjoy a final, relaxed day in Timișoara.

Make the most of your final day in Romania by visiting Timișoara’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Iulius Town. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing vacation.

If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Theresia Bastion, a history-steeped monument before you head out.

Over a good meal, take a moment to unwind and reflect on the past 10 days of your relaxed road trip. Savor one last traditional dish in Timișoara, or keep it light with a quick bite before you go.

Savor the flavors at Casa Thalia, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Restaurant Sabres beckons with its unique menu offerings.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Timișoara and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 10-day relaxed road trip in Romania is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

Read more

How it works

Book your journey with Europe’s biggest travel platform—expert itineraries, instant confirmation, and full flexibility with 24/7 support.

Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.
Secure your spot
Confirm your package instantly and lock in the best rate with secure payment and guaranteed availability.
Get instant confirmation
Shortly after booking, you’ll receive your full itinerary, including schedules, locations, and everything you need for a stress-free trip.
Personalize your itinerary
Each package includes a professionally crafted itinerary you can tailor to your travel style. A dedicated travel expert will make sure every detail fits your needs perfectly.
Easily make changes
Need to update plans? No problem. Whether before your trip or mid-journey, we’re just seconds away to help with quick adjustments.
Enjoy seamless planning
With everything from accommodations to activities pre-arranged, our packages save you hours of research—so you can spend more time enjoying your trip, not planning it.
Explore with confidence
From scenic road trips to city-hopping adventures, we’re here 24/7 to support you across Europe—before, during, and after your trip.

We guarantee

Your trip is protected, personalized, and priced right. No surprises, no stress.

Similar travel packages

Discover other popular vacations in Romania

Link to appstore phone
Install Europe’s biggest travel app

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.