One-Week Relaxed Romania Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Craiova to Bucharest

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Description

Uncover the beauty of Romania on this 8-day relaxed road trip, journeying through Craiova, Mofleni, Bucharest, Buftea, Balotești, Dumbrăveni, Pantelimon, and Pasărea. Unwind at your leisure on this self-drive vacation, discovering hidden gems and immersing yourself in the serene exploration.

This self-drive package allows you to travel through picture-perfect landscapes in Romania at a relaxed pace. Get a dose of comfort, fun, and recreation in Craiova, Mofleni, Bucharest, Buftea, Balotești, Dumbrăveni, Pantelimon, and Pasărea. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 2 nights in Craiova and 5 nights in Bucharest. Finally, taste the local food and enjoy a refreshing drink at the most popular restaurants and bars along your road trip route in Romania.

Freedom of choice is key to a relaxing road trip in Romania. For your self-drive vacation, we’ll offer you a selection of the best rental vehicles with CDW insurance. Upon arrival in Craiova, you’ll collect your rental car of choice. From there, you’ll begin your 8-day journey across Romania and discover its unique culture, history, and diverse scenery.

Experience the essence of leisurely self-drive exploration across Romania with our handpicked selection of accommodations. From relaxed stays at renowned 5-star hotels offering magnificent views to comfortable 3-star options that cater to budget-conscious travelers, we ensure your journey is optimized for relaxation and comfort. Discover the perfect place to stay and unwind as you embark on a laid-back adventure in Romania.

We’ll introduce you to some of the best travel destinations in Romania. This relaxed road trip features the stunning King Mihai I Park. Another highlight of this self-drive tour is the captivating Therme Bucharest.

Traveling leisurely through Romania means you could spend as much time as you want at the magnificent Tineretului Park. You’ll have plenty of time to take in each attraction's unique features, learn its unique history, and appreciate it to the fullest.

Enjoy strolling through Romania's shopping hotspots near your accommodation. Visit shops, discover the locals’ way of life, or try various specialties. Don't forget to bring home a piece of the country that will remind you of your relaxing vacation in Romania.

Between sightseeing, you can make the most of your downtime and join a popular tour in Romania. This relaxed road trip also gives you plenty of time to stroll through Romania's shopping hotspots. Through these experiences, you'll have plenty of opportunities to discover the locals’ way of life and soak in the rich cultural heritage of the Romania.

This self-drive vacation package includes everything you need for a stress-free, easy road trip through Romania. You’ll have a cozy place to stay for 7 nights, with a selection of top-rated breakfast and restaurant options nearby. We'll also provide you with the best rental car you can use throughout the 8 days of your self-drive road trip in Romania. On top of all that, you also have the option to add flights to your travel plan and personalize each day of your itinerary by adding tours and tickets.

This self-drive package includes 24/7 travel support and a step-by-step guide. You can access the guide at any point of your journey through our mobile app, where you can also keep and organize your travel documents.

Spend an amazing 8-day vacation in Romania and get to know more about this fantastic destination. Choose your travel dates and plan a laid-back and relaxed road trip in Romania today!

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Itinerary summary

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Days
Destination
Attractions
Overnight
Day
City & Overnight
Attractions
Centrul Vechi al Craiovei
Alexandru Buia" Botanical GardenParcul TineretuluiNicolae Romanescu ParkZoo Park Craiova
King Mihai I Park (Herăstrău) CA"Dimitrie Gusti" National Village Museum“Grigore Antipa” National Museum of Natural HistoryIzvor Park"Carol I" ParkRomanian Athenaeum
Romanian AthenaeumCișmigiu GardensNational Museum of ArtBucharest FountainsAlexandru Ioan Cuza Park (I O R )
Tineretului ParkChildren's World ParkChildren's Town BucharestRomanian Athenaeum
Ştirbey DomainTherme BucharestEdenland ParkRomanian Athenaeum
Ferma AnimalelorPasărea monasteryCernica monasteryRomanian Athenaeum
Administrative Palace of CraiovaNicolae Romanescu Park

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Day 1

Day 1 – Craiova - arrival day

  • Craiova - Arrival day
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  • Centrul Vechi al Craiovei
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Your relaxed road trip through Romania starts when you reach the incredible city of Craiova, where you'll stay for 1 night. You'll pick up your rental car in Craiova and begin your adventure in Romania.

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.

Find your way to your hotel in Craiova. We recommend choosing a hotel in a central location for easy exploring. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM at hotels in Romania. Settle in and make plans for the evening.

When you're hungry and ready to take a break from your laid-back adventure, treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of the best restaurants in Craiova.

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

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

Round off your dining experience by visiting Tipsy, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of Miky's Pub, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Gelateria Scena likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

Raise a toast as you look back into the highlights of today’s laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in Romania. Enjoy your first taste of Craiova as you soak in the city’s unique vibe.

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Day 2

Day 2 – Craiova, Mofleni, and Bucharest

  • Craiova
  • Mofleni
  • Bucharest
  • More

Drive 244 km, 3 hours 26 min

  • Alexandru Buia" Botanical Garden
  • Parcul Tineretului
  • Nicolae Romanescu Park
  • Zoo Park Craiova
  • More

Day 2 of your relaxed road trip across the beautiful country of Romania will take you on a self-paced journey to more than one incredible place in one day. See some of the best attractions in Romania, taste the most delectable foods and exquisite drinks, and make incredible memories as you go!

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Craiova today. One of the most increasingly popular attractions included on the itinerary is "alexandru Buia" Botanical Garden. This eye-catching botanical garden will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Nicolae Romanescu Park and learn what makes this idyllic park unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the increasingly popular Zoo Park Craiova.

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

Parcul Tineretului is a worthwhile park we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its majestic features before continuing your self-guided tour.

When you’re not exploring beautiful places, you’ll have a relaxed time at Bucharest. Here, you can choose from the best selection of hotels and places to stay as you get to know more about this spectacular city.

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

Dine in style at Coftale Specialty Coffee Shop, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, PAPILA boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Complex Herăstrău. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bucharest.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at The Vintage Pub, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Newton Cocktail Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Qp Pub offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Bucharest

  • Bucharest
  • More

Drive 17 km, 44 min

  • King Mihai I Park (Herăstrău) CA
  • "Dimitrie Gusti" National Village Museum
  • “Grigore Antipa” National Museum of Natural History
  • Izvor Park
  • "Carol I" Park
  • Romanian Athenaeum
  • More

On day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Romania, you’ll go deep into Bucharest, where you'll stay for 4 nights, 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 Bucharest, and meet locals along the way!

Get ready for an exciting day in Bucharest. Today’s sightseeing agenda includes a park, a museum, and a concert hall. Begin your adventure at King Mihai I Park. This is a famous park you should not miss. Another must-see is Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum In Bucharest, a notable museum in Bucharest.

When you’re ready for the next sight, head to Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum. From there, take a leisurely stroll to Izvor Park, another of the city’s captivating attractions. We recommend ending your self-guided tour of the city with an eye-catching park. Carol Park is a truly remarkable place to visit in Bucharest.

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

Mealtimes are the perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture of Romania. When you're not appreciating the best places to visit in Bucharest, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.

Dine in style at Bruno Wine Bar & Bistro, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hanu' Berarilor Casa Oprea Soare boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Vatra Restaurant. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bucharest.

A visit to a top-rated local bar is one of the most refreshing ways to cap off a beautiful night in Bucharest.

After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Control Club, known for its inviting atmosphere. Wicked Bar is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Manasia Hub provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Bucharest

  • Bucharest
  • More

Drive 15 km, 53 min

  • Romanian Athenaeum
  • Cișmigiu Gardens
  • National Museum of Art
  • Bucharest Fountains
  • Alexandru Ioan Cuza Park (I O R )
  • More

Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bucharest, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Romania are extraordinary.

Start by visiting Cișmigiu Gardens, a prime spot to begin your journey. This eye-catching park is sure to impress. Next on your list is National Museum Of Art Of Romania, another must-visit landmark and often recommended museum renowned for its visually striking features.

While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the ambiance of Bucharest by sampling some local delicacies or having a drink. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Bucharest Fountains. This enchanting art installation is a remarkable attraction that offers a unique experience. "alexandru Ioan Cuza" Park also adds charm to your journey.

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

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

Savor the flavors at Restaurant Bucătărașul, a top pick for dinner tonight. Alternatively, Aubergine Restaurant beckons with its unique menu offerings. Also, consider SkyBar. With its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent option for dining in Bucharest tonight.

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

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Origo. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The Pub Bucharest, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Coppa Coffee & Wine Bar Dorobanti provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

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

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Day 5

Day 5 – Bucharest

  • Bucharest
  • More

Drive 14 km, 37 min

  • Tineretului Park
  • Children's World Park
  • Children's Town Bucharest
  • Romanian Athenaeum
  • More

Day 5 of your relaxed road trip through Romania means 24 hours of making the best memories in Bucharest. You’ll go sightseeing at famous attractions in Bucharest. 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 Bucharest!

Today’s agenda in Bucharest includes a park and an amusement park. Tineretului Park is must-visit park and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to "children's World" Park, a popular park, located just a leisurely stroll away.

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.

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

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

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.

Continue your lively evening at Zeppelin Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in.

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

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Day 6

Day 6 – Bucharest, Buftea, Balotești, and Dumbrăveni

  • Bucharest
  • Buftea
  • Balotești
  • Dumbrăveni
  • More

Drive 82 km, 2 hours 1 min

  • Ştirbey Domain
  • Therme Bucharest
  • Edenland Park
  • Romanian Athenaeum
  • More

On day 6 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Bucharest and visit amazing attractions in Buftea, Balotești, Dumbrăveni, and Bucharest destinations, just outside of the city. You still have 1 night left in Bucharest. This means today is also another excellent opportunity to dine at some of the top-rated restaurants and bars in the area.

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Buftea today.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings.

When you’ve had your share of Bucharest, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Buftea. Your travel time is around 40 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Ştirbei Domain. Spend some time admiring the enchanting features of the castle before you continue to your next stop.

After soaking in Buftea’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Balotești. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 29 min. When you arrive in Balotești, it's time to take a break from the road.

Make your way to Therme Bucharest, a well-known spa that draws attention for its romantic features.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Dumbrăveni. This drive usually takes around 14 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Edenland Park. Spend some time admiring the breathtaking features of the adventure park before you continue to your next stop.

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

Exploring the food culture in Bucharest offers you an exciting chance to connect with locals and experience diversity along your relaxed road trip. When you’re ready to eat, we recommend you visit one of the best dining spots in the city.

Enjoy a delicious meal at Auchan, a top-rated dining destination in Bucharest. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Osho, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Le Bab. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Bucharest this evening.

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

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

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Day 7

Day 7 – Bucharest, Pantelimon, Pasărea, and Craiova

  • Bucharest
  • Pantelimon
  • Pasărea
  • Craiova
  • More

Drive 293 km, 4 hours 26 min

  • Ferma Animalelor
  • Pasărea monastery
  • Cernica monastery
  • Romanian Athenaeum
  • More

Day 7 of your relaxed road trip across Romania promises an exciting agenda full of discovery. You’ll start your day in the town of Pantelimon and drive in the direction of the village of Pasărea for some laid-back sightseeing. You’ll end your day in the city of Craiova, where you’ll stay for 1 night.

When you’ve had your share of Bucharest, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Pantelimon. Your travel time is around 30 min.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Ferma Animalelor. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the petting zoo before you continue to your next stop.

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

Take your self-guided tour to Pasărea Monastery, an underrated monastery that everyone visiting Pasărea should see. Enjoy sightseeing at your own pace and allow yourself time to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bucharest and set your GPS to Pantelimon. 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 30 min. Upon reaching Pantelimon, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Cernica Monastery. Spend some time admiring the inviting features of the monastery before you continue to your next stop.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Craiova. Staying in the city enhances your laid-back road trip experience in Romania by offering a comfortable and welcoming environment to recharge in this charming destination.

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 Craiova.

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

If you feel like it, head out to a bar to celebrate another fantastic day in Craiova and take the pulse of the city’s nightlife. Enjoy the night without rushing to fully appreciate it.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Soho. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to Da Vinci, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Acsa provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

Raise your glass and toast to another unforgettable, laid-back road trip adventure in Romania!

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Day 8

Day 8 – Craiova - departure day

  • Craiova - Departure day
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  • Administrative Palace of Craiova
  • Nicolae Romanescu Park
  • More

Day 8 of your relaxed road trip in Romania is your departure day. If you have a flight to catch, you’ll drop off your rental car well in advance before your departure. Choose a late flight to enjoy a stress-free last day in Craiova.

Maximize your last day in Romania and go on a shopping spree in Craiova’s shopping center. Browse for souvenirs to remind you of your wonderful journey in Romania.

If you'd rather pass the time visiting some attractions, this is your chance to go to places you may not have had the chance to explore yet.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Craiova is the remarkable Craiova. This palace and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 522 visitors.

Unwind and look back at the past 8 days of your relaxed road trip over a bite to eat. This is your chance to enjoy one last traditional meal in Craiova or just grab something light to keep you going.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Craiova and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 8-day relaxed road trip in Romania is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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