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

1 / 16
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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Hotel Boutique Casa del Sole, an iconic dining spot in Timișoara. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Rivière Brasserie, a popular restaurant in Timișoara. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Homemade, a hidden gem nestled in Timișoara. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Scârț, A Chill Place after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to The 80's Pub, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, La Pisici Cafe also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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.

Awaiting your discovery is the interesting Victory Square, a romantic public square in Timișoara. Next, go to The Old Town Of Timișoara.

After visiting Victory Square and The Old Town Of Timișoara, have a stroll along Timișoara's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Libertății Square In Timișoara. This instagrammable public square offers a unique experience. Botanic Park is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Banat Village Museum, Timișoara, one of the most awe-inspiring places to visit in Timișoara.

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.

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 Timișoara, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Neața Omelette Bistro, a highly-rated dining destination in Timișoara. If you're eager to try something different, consider Cafeneaua Verde, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Zaza Restopub. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Timișoara this evening.

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.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Storia, known for its inviting atmosphere. The Charlatan's Pub is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Csíki Beer House provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Romania!

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!

Parcul Uzinei brings Timișoara's character to life. This peaceful park is a highlight of any visit in the city. Then, enjoy Roses Park, Timișoara, another romantic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to "three Holy Hierarchs" Metropolitan Cathedral, one of the city’s most underrated attractions, known for its picture-perfect features.

If you’re looking for more, spend time soaking in the atmosphere of Alpinet Park. This eye-catching park is frequented by locals and tourists alike. To complete your memorable day, make sure to visit Bucovina Park, an underrated park, and take a stroll around the area.

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.

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

Experience the amazing nightlife in Timișoara and unwind at the coolest bars in the city.

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

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Timișoara as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in 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!

Regina Maria Park is perfect for a self-paced visit during the day. This awe-inspiring park is sure to impress.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Timișoara by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Muzeul Consumatorului Comunist. This visually striking museum is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Timișoara experience. We also recommend visiting Scârț, A Chill Place, an up-and-coming bar. Nearby, you'll also find Clăbucet Park, ready to add charm to your journey.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Hotel Delpack, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Restaurant Casa del Sole offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss The Drunken Rat Pub. Known for great service, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Timișoara.

Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Timișoara.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Irish Public House, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists.

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
  • 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 easy, relaxed road trip through Romania lets you travel at your own pace and visit multiple places in a single day. Begin by exploring the best sights in Deva. By evening, drive toward the Hateg, where you’ll stay at a top-rated hotel of your choice for 3 nights.

Look forward to a unique sightseeing adventure at the worthwhile Citadel Park and allow yourself time to explore.

Continue your journey to Arboretum Park Simeria, one of the city’s most often recommended spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the popular Castelul Corvinilor (corvins' Castle).

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

Exploring the food culture in Hateg 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 town.

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 Hateg. The bars in Hateg make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

Soak in the unique atmosphere of Hateg as you commemorate this day of your relaxed road trip with a toast. Cheers to a memorable, leisurely self-drive holiday in Romania!

Read more
Day6

Day 6

  • Hateg
  • 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.

Check out the up-and-coming archeological site, Sarmizegetusa Regia. Afterward, continue to Grădiștea Muncelului-cioclovina Natural Park, a nature reserve every traveler should visit. As you explore Hateg’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the municipality.

Next, make your way to Dacian Fortress Costesti. This underrated archeological site is an essential stop. Following that, head to Clocota Fall, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience.

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

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

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 Hateg. The bars in Hateg make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.

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

Read more
Day7

Day 7

  • Hateg
  • More

Drive 170 km, 3 hours 22 min

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

Your relaxed road trip in Romania continues on day 7 with more unforgettable memories to make. Today, you’ll get to know Romania better by exploring the top attractions of Hateg and beyond. With 1 night left in Hateg, you’ll still have time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the town.

Mălăiești Fortress makes a great addition to your morning plans. This worthwhile castle is a standout place to see in Hateg. Continue your discovery at Banita Gorges, a picturesque canyon with stories to tell.

As you stroll around Hateg, take in the distinct atmosphere and learn what makes this village so unique. Maximize your sightseeing with a visit to Bolii Cave. This increasingly popular cave offers a scenic encounter with Hateg. Next, make your way to Parcul Carol Schreter to add another highlight to your day. After that, visit Straja Resort, a beloved ski resort that’s sure to impress. Whether you decide to get entrance tickets for all attractions or you prefer admiring from a distance, amazing experiences await on this day in Hateg.

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

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.

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.

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

Read more
Day8

Day 8

  • Hateg
  • Caraș-Severin
  • More

Drive 174 km, 3 hours 16 min

  • Bison Nature Reserve
  • Prislop Monastery
  • Densuș Church
  • Ulpia Traiana Sarmizegetusa
  • 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.

Awaiting your discovery is the locally appreciated Bison Nature Reserve, a picturesque nature reserve in Hateg. Next, go to Prislop Monastery.

After visiting Bison Nature Reserve and Prislop Monastery, have a stroll along Hateg's streets and take in the local charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Densuș Church. This breathtaking church offers a unique experience. Ulpia Traiana Sarmizegetusa is another noteworthy attraction worthwhile a visit.

You'll be staying in Reșița on this laid-back road trip through Romania. You'll stay here for 1 night.

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.

Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Pizzeria & Trattoria Napoli, a popular restaurant in Reșița. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Reșița at Coda Vinci Trattoria&Rosticceria, 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 Coda Vinci Terasa Trandafirul. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Reșița 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.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Soho House, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Time offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Soho Wet. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

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

Read more
Day9

Day 9

  • Caraș-Severin
  • 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.

Experience Fântâna Cinetică, a curiosity-inducing art installation in the city.

There are many interesting places to see in Reșița, and when you are ready for more, go to Bigar Cascade Falls. This is one of the city’s most often recommended mesmerizing spots of interest. After exploring the waterfall, visit the intriguing Izvorul Bigăr.

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

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.

Have a fantastic dining experience at Paradisul Piraților, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Little Hanoi - The Taste of Vietnam offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Miorița is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option 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.

Raise your glass to celebrate another day of your laid-back and relaxed road trip experience in 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.

Take advantage of your accommodation's proximity to Timișoara’s shopping district for some last-minute bargain hunting. 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 Theresia Bastion, a symbolic 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.