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

Your road trip adventure in Romania begins as soon as you reach Cluj Napoca and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Cluj Napoca for 2 nights and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Roata, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Jaxx offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Casa Maramureșeană. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Cluj Napoca.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Yolka. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Hardward Pub (Hard Club) offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Che Guevara Social Pub, another top-rated bar in the area.

Raise a toast to the start of your 13-day road trip in Romania!

On day 2 of your road trip, you will have an entire day to explore Cluj Napoca. You’ll stay in Cluj Napoca for 1 night and discover all the best things to see and do in the area.

Make Alexandru Borza Botanical Garden one of your first sightseeing stops in Cluj Napoca. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 16,157 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Iuliu Hațieganu Sports Park is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 4,719 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Casino - Centrul de Cultură Urbană. This point of interest has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 2,150 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Cetățuia Park. A trip to this popular park is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.6 out of 5-star rating as given by 11,462 previous visitors.

Another top place to visit is "Dormition of the Mother of God" Metropolitan Cathedral. This church enjoys an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,669 local and international travelers.

Immerse yourself in the local scene through top-rated tours and activities. You can choose from a wide variety of easy to challenging tours and easily add them to your travel package below.

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

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

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at London Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Shto offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Shadow Cafe-Bar provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous 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.

Make Wind Mill one of your first sightseeing stops in Cluj Napoca. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 5,403 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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.

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.

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Panoramic-Bar&Grill, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try La Poarta? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Blue Hours as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Alba Iulia.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, framm's offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink. Similarly, Enjoy Life S. R. L. Is well-suited for those looking to unwind in a social setting. Art Cafe Downtown is another excellent spot to enjoy a nightcap after a delightful meal.

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

On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Romania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Sibiu. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Râmnicu Vâlcea, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Sibiu. This car ride takes around 59 min.

When you're ready to see some sights, The Bridge of Lies is a great place to start. This sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 20,465 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Turnul Sfatului. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,205 travelers.

We also recommend a stop at The Large Square. The sightseeing destination has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,200 visitors.

If you're keen to explore more, consider visiting Dumbrava Sibiului Natural Park. This protected area is a popular attraction with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 21,831 reviews.

Sibiu Zoological Garden is another easily accessible place to visit on this day of your trip. Stop by this zoo, rated 4.6 out of 5 stars in 15,956 reviews, to discover more of what makes it unique.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Râmnicu Vâlcea. Râmnicu Vâlcea 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 Râmnicu Vâlcea. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Don’t miss out on dining at Gallo Nero, a top-rated dining destination in Râmnicu Vâlcea. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Hanul Haiducilor, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurantul Belvedere. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Râmnicu Vâlcea this evening.

Explore the vibrant nightlife at SOHO PUB after your meal, a hub for lively evenings and memorable moments. Or, head to ClubWinners for a great selection of flavorful drinks and a charming setting. Furthermore, Brothers Pub is perfect for those looking to extend their night with a touch of local flavor.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 5 of your road trip in Romania. Today, you will make 3 stops and experience some of the highlights of Calimanesti, Păușa, and Craiova. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Craiova, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

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

Make Cozia National Park your first stop of the day. Previous visitors have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 5,948 reviews.

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

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Cozia Monastery. This monastery is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,315 visitors.

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

Enjoy a delicious meal at Essenza Bar & Restaurant, a top-rated dining destination in Craiova. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider The Manor Restaurant & Lounge, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Dream On Pub. With a reputation for consistently satisfied customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Craiova this evening.

Continue your lively evening at Miky's Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Gelateria SCENA is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Soho ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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.

On day 6 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. In the evening, you’ll end up in Târgu Jiu, where you will stay for 1 night.

Set your GPS to Târgu Jiu and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 1 hour 45 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Târgu Jiu beckons with new experiences!

Make Infinity Column one of your first sightseeing stops in Târgu Jiu. Rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 11,173 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Saints Peter and Paul Church is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This church is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 363 reviews.

Today is also the perfect opportunity to drop by Gate of the Kis. This sculpture has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 10,617 visitors.

If you’re keen to explore more, head to Table of Silence. A trip to this popular sculpture is also your opportunity to see if it lives up to the reputable 4.7 out of 5-star rating as given by 1,639 previous visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Târgu Jiu, 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 Târgu Jiu.

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

Unwind after your meal by stepping into Traby. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Iris Grill & Bar offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook GUSTAV's PLACE, another top-rated bar in the area.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Romania!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 7 of your road trip in Romania. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Bănița, Sarmizegetusa, and Densuș. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Hateg. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Bănița.

Journey into the unknown at Bolii Cave, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,920 reviews.

When you’re ready to continue your sightseeing, Banita Gorges is a recommended place to visit. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 2,105 reviews.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Densuș. This drive usually takes around 12 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Ulpia Traiana Sarmizegetusa. This extraordinary ancient city has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 8,545 visitors.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Hateg. Hateg 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 Hateg's best restaurants.

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

Dive into day 8 of your remarkable road trip in Romania. Today you will explore Hateg, Hunedoara County, and Deva, 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 Timișoara. You’ll stay here for 2 nights.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Hunedoara County and set your GPS to Deva. 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 29 min. Upon reaching Deva, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

A top pick for your self-guided sightseeing tour today is Castelul Corvinilor (Corvins' Castle). Previous visitors have rated this museum an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 42,393 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Timișoara, 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 Timișoara's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.

Savor the flavors at Rivière Brasserie, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Neața Omelette Bistro beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider Cafeneaua Verde. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Timișoara tonight.

Cap off your dinner by heading to Scârț, a Chill Place, ideal for a leisurely evening with a drink in hand. The 80's Pub is another bar that offers an enjoyable setting. Similarly, Csíki Beer House is also a popular place to go on a night out, perfect for relaxing and socializing.

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

Day 9 of your road trip will take you to the best attractions Timișoara has to offer. Cherish the 1 night you have left in Timișoara by discovering the best things there are to see and do in the city.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Botanic Park. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 4,195 visitors.

Next, make your way to Libertății Square in Timișoara. This top attraction is a square with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 7,609 visitors.

We also recommend a visit to The Old Town of Timișoara. This sightseeing destination is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,881 travelers.

If you’re keen to keep exploring, visit Victory Square. This highly recommended sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 20,236 travelers.

Today is also your chance to spend some time at Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral. This church is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 6,007 travelers.

To immerse yourself in more memorable moments in Timișoara, check out the best-rated tours the region offers. You can discover and choose from all of the top-rated activities you can do on this day in Timișoara below.

As you explore more of Timișoara, 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.

Dine in style at Massimo, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, The Drunken Rat Pub boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Paradisul Piraților. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Timișoara.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting D'arc pe mal after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Joy Pub, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, Irish Public House also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

On day 10 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Romania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 2 destinations, Timișoara and Arad. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Oradea, where you’ll be staying for 2 nights.

Kick off the day at piața Unirii, a top pick for today’s sightseeing. This square is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 8,611 reviews.

Today is also your chance to visit Roses Park, Timișoara. Roses Park, Timișoara is a rose garden with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 8,649 reviews.

Ion Creangă Children's Park is another top attraction we highly recommend you visit today. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 5,333 visitors.

Beyond the attractions mentioned above, you also have the opportunity to visit Banat Village Museum, Timișoara. This architectural structure is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 5,019 visitors.

Set your GPS to Arad and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 53 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Arad beckons with new experiences!

Drop by the renowned Parcul Pădurice. This popular park has been rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 3,910 visitors.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Via29, an iconic dining spot in Oradea. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Steak HUB Oradea, a popular restaurant in Oradea. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Graf Restaurant & Pizzerie, a hidden gem nestled in Oradea. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

To truly maximize your evening out, consider visiting Gekko Pub & Banya Klub after dinner. This bar is known for offering some of the best drinks and vibes in the city. Alternatively, head to Explore Gaming Pub, another bar with an inviting ambiance. Similarly, LORD'S also offers a great atmosphere, ensuring a night filled with enjoyment and relaxation.

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

Greet day 11 of your road trip in Romania with a smile and start your day with a hearty breakfast. You will return to Oradea for your remaining 1 night in the city later today, but first, it’s time for some exploring! On the agenda for this day, you’ll find only the best things to see and do in Măgura and Oradea.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Oradea Zoo. This zoo is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 8,317 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Oradea Fortress. This point of interest has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 15,098 reviews.

When you’re ready for your next sight of the day, continue to Moskovits Palace. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 2,574 visitors.

When you’ve had your share of Oradea, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Măgura. Your travel time is around 1 hour 28 min.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Bear's Cave. This show cave is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 10,086 reviews.

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

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

Make sure to book a table at Pirate's House, a popular restaurant in Oradea. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Oradea at Rosecas Restaurant & Terasa, 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 The White Lily Restaurant. As a dining spot that gains consistently high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Oradea tonight.

Continue your lively evening at Columbus Cafe Oradea, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Bodega is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Lokal ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

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

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 12 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.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to The City Hall of Oradea. This city hall is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,597 visitors.

"The Black Eagle" Palace is another popular attraction you could visit today. This sightseeing destination has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 5,601 visitors.

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 Izvoru Crișului may take around 1 hour 49 min. Upon your arrival in Izvoru Crișului, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Körösfői református templom. This much-appreciated church is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 256 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of Cluj Napoca. Cluj Napoca 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 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.

This renowned restaurant holds , and offers an exceptional menu of cuisine. Make sure to reserve a table at Klausen Burger, an iconic dining spot in Cluj Napoca. This culinary treasure and its outstanding menu have enchanted food enthusiasts from around the world. Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Euphoria Biergarten, a popular restaurant in Cluj Napoca. With a menu designed to delight, it ensures a dining experience that transcends the ordinary. Experience the culinary magic of Irish & Music Pub, a hidden gem nestled in Cluj Napoca. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Klausen Pubhouse, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, The Soviet is another popular option for a drink or two.

Raise your glass to another unforgettable day in Romania!

Day 13 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.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Central Park Simion Bărnuțiu, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated 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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Rochelle Restaurant & Pub, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Enigma offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss O'Peter's Irish Pub & Grill.

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!