12-Day Romania Road Trip from Cluj Napoca traveling south to Alba Iulia, Râmnicu Vâlcea, Târgu Jiu, Hateg, Arad, and Oradea

Welcome to Cluj Napoca, the perfect starting point for your road trip in Romania! Pick up your rental car and let the adventure begin. You will spend 2 nights immersing yourself in Cluj Napoca's charm before embarking on the next leg of your journey.

Cluj Napoca 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 Students' Cultural House 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 Cluj Napoca. 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 Cluj Napoca. 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.

As a top-rated it is an ideal choice in the city. Enjoy a lovely meal at Roata, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Jaxx is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Casa Maramureșeană. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Cluj Napoca tonight.

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. Yolka is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Hardward Pub (Hard Club), offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Che Guevara Social Pub. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise a toast to the start of your 12-day road trip in Romania!

Day 2 offers a multitude of experiences. You will stay in Cluj Napoca for 1 night more, offering you enough time to explore at a relaxed pace.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Alexandru Borza Botanical Garden. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 16,157 reviews.

"Dormition of the Mother of God" Metropolitan Cathedral is a local recommendation that you also can pay a visit today. This church is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,669 reviews.

Another attraction you won't want to miss is Cetățuia Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 11,462 reviews.

Casino - Centrul de Cultură Urbană is another outstanding experience in Cluj Napoca. Around 2,150 travelers have rated this point of interest an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars.

If you long for more, Iuliu Hațieganu Sports Park is not far away. This park is a lovely addition to your itinerary. Previous visitors have rated it an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,719 reviews.

You can learn more about Cluj Napoca today by going on a tour. Cluj Napoca offers many top-rated tours and unique experiences that will inspire you. You can browse and select your favorites below.

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

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

Keep the excitement of the evening going by going to a bar or two. London Pub is an excellent place to start. You could also check out Shto, offering a different kind of charm. A last recommendation for the day is Shadow Cafe-Bar. This bar promises an enjoyable experience with tasty drinks and a vibrant setting.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Romania!

Dive into day 3 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 1 night.

Drop by the renowned Wind Mill. This popular zoo has been rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,403 visitors.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at Panoramic-Bar&Grill, a popular restaurant in Alba Iulia. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Alba Iulia at La Poarta, 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 Blue Hours. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Alba Iulia tonight.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at framm's. Alternatively, go to Enjoy Life S. R. L. , the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Art Cafe Downtown provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Head back to your accommodation in Alba Iulia and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Romania!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 4 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 Râmnicu Vâlcea, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Sibiu, 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 Alba Iulia to Sibiu may take around 59 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Sibiu, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Kick off the day at The Bridge of Lies, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,465 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Turnul Sfatului. Turnul Sfatului is a sightseeing destination with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,205 reviews.

The Large Square is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,200 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Dumbrava Sibiului Natural Park. This protected area is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 21,831 visitors.

Lastly, don’t miss out on Sibiu Zoological Garden, a famous zoo in Sibiu. This attraction is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 15,956 travelers.

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

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Gallo Nero, an iconic dining spot in Râmnicu Vâlcea. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Hanul Haiducilor, a popular restaurant in Râmnicu Vâlcea. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Restaurantul Belvedere, a hidden gem nestled in Râmnicu Vâlcea. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences 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 3 vibrant destinations - Râmnicu Vâlcea, Calimanesti, and Păușa. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Târgu Jiu. You will spend 2 nights here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Zăvoi. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 4,702 reviews.

When you arrive in Calimanesti, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Turnu Monastery, Vâlcea. This orthodox monastery‎ is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Calimanesti, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 3,132 visitors.

Cozia National Park is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 5,948 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Târgu Jiu. Târgu Jiu 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 Târgu Jiu. 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 Pizza Hunter, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Terasa ANNA boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Aqua. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Târgu Jiu.

Cap off your culinary experience with a visit to some of the most celebrated bars in the area. For instance, Traby stands out as an excellent choice for a post-dinner cocktail. Alternatively, Iris Grill & Bar offers an ideal atmosphere to enjoy the pleasures of the night. GUSTAV's PLACE is also a great option that provides a perfect setting for a relaxing evening.

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

On day 6 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Baia de Fier. You’ll stay in Baia de Fier for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Infinity Column. This point of interest is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Târgu Jiu, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,173 visitors.

Gate of the Kis is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 10,617 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Table of Silence. Visitors have rated this sculpture an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 1,639 reviews.

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

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Restaurant Casa Vera, a top-rated dining destination in Târgu Jiu. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Dorexim, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Dumbrava. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Târgu Jiu this evening.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into IRISH PUB (Colofan SRL). This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes.

Relax and reminisce about your day in Romania and look forward to more memorable moments to come!

On day 7 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Romania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Bănița, Sarmizegetusa, and Hateg. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Hateg, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Upon your arrival in Bănița, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Make Bolii Cave your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this point of interest an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 2,920 reviews.

Next up, make a stop at Banita Gorges. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,105 visitors, it's easy to understand why so many people visit this sightseeing destination every year.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Ulpia Traiana Sarmizegetusa. This ancient city is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 8,545 visitors.

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.

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

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Romania!

On day 8 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 Hunedoara County, Deva, and Timișoara. In the evening, you’ll end up in Arad, where you will stay for 1 night.

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

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Castelul Corvinilor (Corvins' Castle). This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 42,393 visitors.

Deva’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Hunedoara County behind. This drive usually takes around 30 min. Deva welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Take the opportunity to see Fortress of Deva. This attraction has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,127 visitors.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Arad, 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 Arad, 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Orizont Caffe, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Bottega Beer&Grill offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Noi Restaurant. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Arad.

Keep the evening going at Club Nerv, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink. You could also go to One More Beer, which offers a similarly pleasant setting and great drinks. Another option is Old Lady's Pub, which provides an inviting environment for unwinding after a busy day out.

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

Dive into day 9 of your remarkable road trip in Romania. Today you will explore Timișoara, 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 Oradea. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

When you’ve had your share of Arad, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Timișoara. Your travel time is around 57 min.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to The Old Town of Timișoara. This point of interest is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Timișoara, with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,881 visitors.

Victory Square is another popular place of interest you can visit today. The average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,236 reviews gives you an idea of other visitors’ experience at this attraction.

If it’s still bright and early, make your way to Libertății Square in Timișoara. Visitors have rated this square an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 7,609 reviews.

Piața Unirii is another unique site you can experience today. This attraction is a square rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 8,611 reviews.

Make your way to the fantastic Ion Creangă Children's Park, perhaps the most famous park in Timișoara. This attraction is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,333 travelers.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Oradea. Oradea 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 day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Oradea's best restaurants.

Savor the flavors at Via29, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Steak HUB Oradea beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Graf Restaurant & Pizzerie. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Oradea tonight.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Gekko Pub & Banya Klub, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Explore Gaming Pub is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, LORD'S also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass and celebrate another amazing day of your road trip in Romania!

On day 10 of your road trip, you’ll start and end your day in Oradea, but spend part of the day exploring places of interest outside the immediate village. On today's itinerary, you'll find attractions in Măgura and Oradea. You still have 1 night left in Oradea.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Oradea Zoo, a remarkable zoo where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 8,317 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Oradea Fortress. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 15,098 travelers.

Moskovits Palace is another must-visit attraction. This renowned point of interest offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.8 out of 5 stars by 2,574 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

After soaking in Oradea’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Măgura. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 28 min. When you arrive in Măgura, it's time to take a break from the road.

Take the opportunity to see Bear's Cave. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 10,086 visitors.

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

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

Have a fantastic dining experience at Pirate's House, a highly recommended choice for tonight's dinner. If you're looking to mix things up, Rosecas Restaurant & Terasa offers an enticing alternative with its varied menu. Additionally, The White Lily Restaurant is worth considering. Renowned for satisfying diners, it’s an ideal option for tonight in Oradea.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Columbus Cafe Oradea, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Bodega is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Lokal also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Head back to your accommodation in Oradea and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Romania!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 11 of your road trip in Romania. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Oradea, Izvoru Crișului, and Turda. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Cluj Napoca, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is The City Hall of Oradea. This city hall is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 2,597 reviews.

Continue your journey at "The Black Eagle" Palace. This sightseeing destination is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 5,601 travelers from near and far.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Izvoru Crișului. This drive usually takes around 1 hour 49 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Journey into the unknown at Körösfői református templom, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable church has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 256 reviews.

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

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Klausen Burger, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Euphoria Biergarten? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Irish & Music Pub as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Cluj Napoca.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Klausen Pubhouse, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Soviet, a bar catering to every mood and preference.

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

Day 12 of your road trip in Romania is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Cluj Napoca before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

On your last day in Romania, take time to indulge in shopping at Cluj Napoca’s popular marketplace. Thanks to your accommodation’s strategic location, the city’s bustling commercial district is only a stone’s throw away, giving you ample time to leisurely explore the area, filled with local shops.

Take time to find the perfect present, reminding you of the charms of Romania. Each store here is brimming with unique finds. These souvenirs will help you treasure your memories of Romania forever.

Make Central Park Simion Bărnuțiu your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 21,937 reviews.

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

Esteemed as a restaurant, it features an exceptional menu. If you're in the mood for something new, try Enigma, another premier location with a delectable menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Cluj Napoca. 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!