11-Day Romania Road Trip from Craiova traveling west to Băile Herculane, Timișoara, Oradea, Cluj Napoca, Alba Iulia, Hateg, and Târgu Jiu

Say hello to Craiova! Your exciting road trip through Romania is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Craiova for 1 night before you continue your adventure!

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 taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Craiova. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Craiova. 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.

Dine in style at Essenza Bar & Restaurant, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Manor Restaurant & Lounge boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Dream On Pub. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Craiova.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Miky's Pub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Gelateria SCENA, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Soho also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

Raise a toast to the start of your 11-day road trip in Romania!

On day 2 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Romania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Mofleni and Craiova. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Băile Herculane, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Mofleni, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Upon arrival in Mofleni, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Parcul Tineretului. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 2,339 visitors.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Craiova, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Băile Herculane. This drive usually takes around 2 hours 24 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

When you're ready to see some sights, "Alexandru Buia" Botanical Garden is a great place to start. This park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,139 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Zoo Park Craiova. This zoo has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,465 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at Nicolae Romanescu Park. The park has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,064 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Băile Herculane, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Băile Herculane's best restaurants.

Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Romania.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Romania. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Bozovici and Băile Herculane. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Timișoara, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

When you're ready to see some sights, Bigar Cascade Falls is a great place to start. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,001 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Izvorul Bigăr. This protected area has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 5,146 travelers.

Set your GPS to Băile Herculane and hit the road. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Băile Herculane beckons with new experiences!

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Hercules' statue. This extraordinary point of interest has an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars from 5,811 visitors.

Next, make your way to Izvorul Domogled. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,004 reviews.

While in Băile Herculane, we also recommend a visit to Crucea Albă. This sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 375 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Timișoara. Timișoara offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Timișoara. 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 Rivière Brasserie, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Neața Omelette Bistro offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, Cafeneaua Verde is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Timișoara.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Scârț, a Chill Place, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The 80's Pub is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Csíki Beer House also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Say good night to Timișoara and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Romania!

On day 4 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 Timișoara. In the evening, you’ll end up in Oradea, where you will stay for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Oradea. This car ride takes around 2 hours 41 min.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is The Old Town of Timișoara. Previous visitors have rated this sightseeing destination an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 8,881 reviews.

Victory Square is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This square is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,236 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Libertății Square in Timișoara. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,609 reviews.

Piața Unirii is another outstanding experience in Timișoara. Around 8,611 travelers have rated this square an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Roses Park, Timișoara is not far away. This rose garden is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,649 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Oradea, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Oradea. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Via29, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Steak HUB Oradea is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Graf Restaurant & Pizzerie. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Oradea tonight.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Gekko Pub & Banya Klub, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Explore Gaming Pub offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out LORD'S. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

As the sun sets on another day of adventure, rest up and recharge for the next leg of your road trip in Romania.

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Romania. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Oradea. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Cluj Napoca. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Oradea, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Cluj Napoca may take around 2 hours 38 min. Upon your arrival in Cluj Napoca, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to "The Black Eagle" Palace. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,601 visitors.

Moskovits Palace is another popular attraction you could visit today. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,574 visitors.

Parcul Libertății - Liberty Park is also highly recommended by travelers. This park has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,636 visitors.

Oradea Zoo is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This zoo is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 8,317 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Oradea Fortress. This point of interest has received an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 15,098 travelers.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Cluj Napoca, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

Indulge in a memorable dining experience at one of Cluj Napoca's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Make sure to book a table at Roata, a popular restaurant in Cluj Napoca. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Cluj Napoca at Jaxx, 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 Casa Maramureșeană. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Cluj Napoca tonight.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Yolka, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Hardward Pub (Hard Club). This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Che Guevara Social Pub, another top-rated place in the area.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Romania!

Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Romania. Today you will explore Cluj Napoca and Alba Iulia, 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 Alba Iulia. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Kick off the day at Reunification Cathedral, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 2,168 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit The Citadel of Alba-Carolina. The Citadel of Alba-Carolina is a point of interest with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 34,641 reviews.

After soaking in Cluj Napoca’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Alba Iulia. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 20 min. When you arrive in Alba Iulia, it's time to take a break from the road.

Journey into the unknown at Central Park Simion Bărnuțiu, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 21,937 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Cetățuia Park is a recommended place to visit. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,462 reviews.

Another must-see attraction in Cluj Napoca is Alexandru Borza Botanical Garden. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 16,157 travelers, this popular tourist destination in Cluj Napoca offers an experience you will remember.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Alba Iulia. Alba Iulia offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Alba Iulia.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Panoramic-Bar&Grill, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Poarta offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Blue Hours. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Alba Iulia.

Continue your lively evening at framm's, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Enjoy Life S. R. L. Is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Art Cafe Downtown ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Romania!

Day 7 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Sibiu for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

If you have an appetite for more adventure, check out the fantastic selection of tours and tickets offered in Sibiu on this day of your trip. You'll find the most recommended ones below.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Alba Iulia. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Brothers Restaurant, a top-rated dining spot in Alba Iulia. If you're in the mood for something new, try Pensiune Casa del Sole, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at La Vizitiu. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening in Alba Iulia.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Pub Skit' 77, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Romania!

On day 8 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Romania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 4 destinations, Deva, Simeria, Hateg, and Hunedoara County. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Hateg, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Deva. This drive usually takes around 17 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Citadel Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 4,041 visitors.

When you’re finished at Citadel Park, head to Fortress of Deva. This one-of-a-kind castle is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 11,127 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Simeria. This drive usually takes around 47 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Kick off the day at Arboretum Park Simeria, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 3,484 reviews.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Hateg, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the town.

As you explore more of Hateg, 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.

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.

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 9 of your road trip in Romania. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Bănița, Sarmizegetusa, and Densuș. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Târgu Jiu, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Bănița.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Banita Gorges. This much-appreciated point of interest is rated 4.8 out of 5 stars in 2,105 reviews.

Next up is Bolii Cave. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,920 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Densuș, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Sarmizegetusa may take around 13 min. Upon your arrival in Sarmizegetusa, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Ulpia Traiana Sarmizegetusa, a remarkable ancient city where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 8,545 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Târgu Jiu, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Târgu Jiu's best restaurants.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Pizza Hunter, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Terasa ANNA? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Aqua as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Târgu Jiu.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Traby. Alternatively, go to Iris Grill & Bar, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, GUSTAV's PLACE provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Romania!

On day 10 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 Târgu Jiu and Baia de Fier. In the evening, you’ll end up in Craiova, where you will stay for 1 night.

Upon reaching Târgu Jiu, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Kick off the day at Gate of the Kis, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sculpture is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 10,617 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Table of Silence. Table of Silence is a sculpture with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,639 reviews.

Infinity Column is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,173 visitors.

Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Baia de Fier.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Peștera Muierilor. This extraordinary show cave is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,790 visitors.

Next, make your way to Pădurea Colorată. This top attraction is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 2,770 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Craiova. Craiova offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Check in at the hotel of your choice and take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Craiova. 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.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Baba Novac, a highly-rated dining destination in Craiova. If you're eager to try something different, consider One Garden, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Pizza Peter's. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Craiova this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Da Vinci. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Old Court Biergarten offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Street Cafe, another top-rated bar in the area.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Romania!

Day 11 of your road trip in Romania is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Craiova 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 Craiova’s shopping center. This bustling commercial district is conveniently located near your lodging, granting you leisure time to roam and explore its assortment of establishments.

If you love the adrenaline rush of hunting for the best offers and deals in Romania, you’re in for a treat. A variety of goods and gifts await your discovery. Bring a bit of Romania home with you through these charming souvenirs.

Before you conclude your road trip in Romania, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Craiova.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Dong Fang Restaurant Chinezesc, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Craiova. 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!