Relaxed 9-Day Romania Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Craiova to Bucharest

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Description

Explore Romania and discover its unique charm on this 9-day relaxed road trip through Craiova, Mofleni, Bucharest, Buftea, Chitila, Balotești, Snagov, Piscu, Dumbrăveni, Pantelimon, and Pasărea. Delight in a stress-free journey that focuses on exploration through the country's most captivating landscapes.

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, Chitila, Balotești, Snagov, Piscu, Dumbrăveni, Pantelimon, and Pasărea. Make yourself at home at top-rated hotels and stay 2 nights in Craiova and 6 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 9-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 8 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 9 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 9-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
Administrative Palace of CraiovaCentrul Vechi al CraioveiAlexandru Buia" Botanical GardenParcul TineretuluiNicolae Romanescu Park
King Mihai I Park (Herăstrău) CA"Dimitrie Gusti" National Village Museum“Grigore Antipa” National Museum of Natural HistoryRomanian AthenaeumCișmigiu Gardens
Izvor ParkNational Museum of Art"Carol I" ParkChildren's World ParkTineretului ParkRomanian Athenaeum
Children's Town BucharestBucharest FountainsAlexandru Ioan Cuza Park (I O R )Romanian Athenaeum
Ştirbey DomainArboretum ChitilaTherme BucharestRomanian Athenaeum

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Day 1

Day 1 – Craiova - arrival day

  • Craiova - Arrival day
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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. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

As afternoon approaches, head to your chosen hotel in Craiova. Check-in typically starts around 2 to 4 PM at hotels in Romania. We recommend staying at a hotel in a central location for easy access to the best attractions, restaurants, and bars in the city.

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.

After dinner, you can choose between heading back to your hotel to recharge, taking a leisurely stroll, or going out to a bar for a relaxed drink in great company.

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

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 29 min

  • Administrative Palace of Craiova
  • Centrul Vechi al Craiovei
  • Alexandru Buia" Botanical Garden
  • Parcul Tineretului
  • Nicolae Romanescu Park
  • More

Day 2 of your self-drive tour in Romania is your opportunity to see and experience the diversity of the country. You’ll stay in Bucharest for 6 nights. Along the route of your relaxed road trip, you can get a glimpse of the locals’ way of life and visit some of the most amazing locations in Romania.

Today’s agenda in Craiova includes a palace, a street, a botanical garden, a park and much more! Craiova is must-visit palace and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to Craiova's Old Town, a locally appreciated street, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to "alexandru Buia" Botanical Garden, a romantic botanical garden, also available for your discovery today.

Each stop on today’s itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for Craiova. If you’re looking for more, Nicolae Romanescu Park is also a captivating attraction that is worthwhile a visit.

Head to Parcul Tineretului, a locally appreciated park in Mofleni. Explore its romantic features at your own pace before you continue your journey.

After a day of exploration, relax at one of the top hotels or accommodations in Bucharest. 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 it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Bucharest, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Coftale Specialty Coffee Shop, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? PAPILA offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Complex Herăstrău. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bucharest.

Take a stroll around the area, head back to your accommodation for the night, or continue your evening at one of the best-rated bars in the city.

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.

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

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Day 3

Day 3 – Bucharest

  • Bucharest
  • More

Drive 13 km, 41 min

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

On day 3 of your leisurely self-drive tour across Romania, you’ll go deep into Bucharest, where you'll stay for 5 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!

A blend of a romantic, a majestic, a mesmerizing, an eye-catching, a respected, a symbolic, and a masterful await you in Bucharest on today’s itinerary. First up is the astonishing park, King Mihai I Park. It's a standout spot that offers a memorable visit. Afterward, continue to Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum In Bucharest. A visit to this museum is an enriching experience for all.

As you explore Bucharest’s charming streets, take in the lively atmosphere and get to know the character of the city. Next, make your way to Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum. This notable museum is an essential stop that should not be missed. Following that, head to Romanian Athenaeum, another must-visit site that will enhance your experience. Lastly, visit Cișmigiu Gardens and learn why this park is renowned as one of the city's most notable attractions.

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.

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.

Make sure to reserve a table at Bruno Wine Bar & Bistro, 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 Oprea Soare, 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 Vatra Restaurant, a hidden gem nestled in Bucharest. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.

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

Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Control Club, a top-rated bar in the area. For other recommendations, Wicked Bar provides a perfect setting for rounding out your night with style and great drinks. Likewise, Manasia Hub offers a memorable night with diverse drink options and excellent service.

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

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Day 4

Day 4 – Bucharest

  • Bucharest
  • More

Drive 16 km, 47 min

  • Izvor Park
  • National Museum of Art
  • "Carol I" Park
  • Children's World Park
  • Tineretului Park
  • Romanian Athenaeum
  • More

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

Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bucharest today. One of the most locally renowned attractions included on the itinerary is Izvor Park. This mesmerizing park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to National Museum Of Art Of Romania and learn what makes this photogenic museum unique.

Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the well-known Carol Park. After exploring the park, head to "children's World" Park. This locally renowned park is a highlight in Bucharest. Lastly, don’t forget to check out the captivating Tineretului Park. Enjoy exploring this incredible park at your own pace.

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.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurant Bucătărașul, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Aubergine Restaurant offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss SkyBar. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic 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.

Round off your dining experience by visiting Origo, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of The Pub Bucharest, a bar catering to every mood and preference. Coppa Coffee & Wine Bar Dorobanti likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.

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

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Day 5

Day 5 – Bucharest

  • Bucharest
  • More

Drive 20 km, 52 min

  • Children's Town Bucharest
  • Bucharest Fountains
  • Alexandru Ioan Cuza Park (I O R )
  • 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 itinerary in Bucharest covers several incredible sights, including an amusement park, an art installation, and a park. Start your adventure at Children's Town Bucharest. This captivating amusement park is a place that is appreciated by travelers and locals alike. Next, immerse yourself in the romantic wonders of Bucharest Fountains, a must-see art installation in the city.

Consider stopping for a small bite to eat or a drink at a local eatery to keep your energy going. When you’re ready, continue your discovery with a visit to "alexandru Ioan Cuza" Park. This interesting park offers an enriching experience.

Gain a one-of-a-kind experience on your unhurried and relaxed road trip across Romania by joining a traveler-approved tour in Bucharest. There are so many fun and eye-opening activities to try out in Bucharest that will make your slow-paced self-drive tour in Romania more memorable. Check out all the most recommended and top-rated tour options in the city of Bucharest to find the best options for you!

When it’s time to eat, the city has a variety of restaurants and cuisines to suit your palate and complement your relaxed road trip experience. Take a leisurely walk around Bucharest, while looking for a place to eat. Or, check out our top recommendations and treat yourself to a nice meal.

Make sure to book a table at Phoenicia Grand Hotel, a popular restaurant in Bucharest. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bucharest at Hanu' Berarilor Casa Elena Lupescu, 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 Stadio Unirii. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Bucharest tonight.

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

Continue your evening by exploring the vibrant nightlife scene at Zeppelin Pub, a prime destination for a thrilling night out.

A leisurely self-drive holiday in Bucharest can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in Romania!

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Day 6

Day 6 – Bucharest, Buftea, Chitila, and Balotești

  • Bucharest
  • Buftea
  • Chitila railway station
  • Balotești
  • More

Drive 75 km, 1 hour 49 min

  • Ştirbey Domain
  • Arboretum Chitila
  • Therme Bucharest
  • Romanian Athenaeum
  • More

Your laid-back and relaxed road trip in Romania continues on day 6, allowing you to create more unforgettable memories. Today’s travel plan offers you the chance to have a more in-depth understanding of Romania and its people by visiting the offerings and top attractions of Bucharest and beyond. With 2 nights left in Bucharest, you’ll have enough time to eat and unwind at popular restaurants and bars in the city.

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.

Begin your journey at Ştirbei Domain and explore the history-steeped features.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Buftea and set your GPS to Chitila. 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 17 min. Upon reaching Chitila, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Savor the rest of your day by heading to The Dendrological Park, an often recommended botanical garden that draws visitors from near and far.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Balotești. This car ride takes around 20 min.

Your self-guided tour starts at Therme Bucharest, a well-known spa that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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

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 Bucharest.

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

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

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 7

Day 7 – Bucharest, Snagov, Piscu, and Dumbrăveni

  • Bucharest
  • Snagov
  • Piscu
  • Dumbrăveni
  • More

Drive 111 km, 2 hours 30 min

  • Snagov Forest
  • Snagov Monastery
  • Snagov Forest protected area
  • Țigănești Monastery
  • Edenland Park
  • Romanian Athenaeum
  • More

On day 7 of your relaxed road trip across Romania, you’ll explore the area around Bucharest, where you’ll be staying for another 1 night. With so many fun and inspiring experiences to offer, a tour of Bucharest will make you fall even more in love with the city and uniqueness of Romania.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Bucharest, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Snagov may take around 45 min. Upon your arrival in Snagov, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Snagov Forest is a locally appreciated nature reserve we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its romantic features before continuing your self-guided tour to Snagov Monastery, a historic monastery that’s well-regarded in the area. Next, stop by Snagov Forest Protected Area, a stunning nature reserve.

Piscu’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Snagov behind. This drive usually takes around 11 min. Piscu welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Țigănești Monastery is a curiosity-inducing monastery we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its awe-inspiring features before continuing your self-guided tour.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Dumbrăveni, 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 Piscu to Dumbrăveni may take around 21 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Dumbrăveni, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Begin your journey at Edenland Park and explore the breathtaking features.

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

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.

Make sure to book a table at Pub 18, a popular restaurant in Bucharest. This acclaimed restaurant and its mouthwatering dishes have earned the admiration of countless food lovers. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bucharest at Romanian Craft Beer, 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 Radisson Blu Hotel, Bucharest. As a dining spot that gains high praise from guests, it’s an ideal choice to enhance your time to Bucharest tonight.

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

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Romania!

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Day 8

Day 8 – 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 8 of your leisurely self-drive tour in Romania is another opportunity for an in-depth travel experience in the country. On this refreshing new day, you’ll travel from Pantelimon and continue your laid-back and relaxed road trip adventure in the village of Pasărea and the town of Pantelimon. You’ll stay in Craiova for 1 night.

Bring your curiosity for today’s adventure around Pantelimon. Some of the town’s most loved attractions await.

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.

Your self-guided tour starts at Ferma Animalelor, an intriguing petting zoo that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

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

Your self-guided tour starts at Pasărea Monastery, a curiosity-inducing monastery that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.

Set your GPS to Pantelimon and hit the road. Expect a journey of approximately 30 min without stops. Soak in the beautiful landscapes as you drive and look forward to exploring your next destination. Pantelimon beckons with new experiences!

Savor the rest of your day by heading to Cernica Monastery, a frequently visited monastery that draws visitors from near and far.

In the city of Craiova, you’ll find plenty of stay options that will accommodate your need for rest and relaxation after spending your day on the road. Our top recommendations perfectly complement your relaxed road trip vacation in Romania.

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

Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at The Manor Restaurant & Lounge, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try Dream On Pub? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu. Consider reserving a table at Restaurant Baba Novac as well. Known for its consistent customer satisfaction, it’s an ideal pick for tonight in Craiova.

If you’re not yet ready to call it a night, head back out to celebrate your vacation with a drink. This is a great time to slow down, look back at your day, and raise a toast to your wonderful holiday in Romania.

After enjoying a delightful dinner, why not delve into the vibrant local bar scene? You might want to spend the evening at Soho, a well-loved spot among locals and tourists. Or, head to Da Vinci. This bar boasts a welcoming environment that is perfect for winding down. You could also continue your night at Acsa, another top-rated place in the area.

Raise your glass and relax after another big day of your leisurely paced road trip in Romania!

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Day 9

Day 9 – Craiova - departure day

  • Craiova - Departure day
  • More
  • Nicolae Romanescu Park
  • More

Day 9 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.

Unwind and look back at the past 9 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.

If you're in the mood for something new, try One Garden, another premier location with a delectable menu.

Give yourself enough time to wave goodbye to Craiova and begin your journey home. The unforgettable experiences you’ve collected along your 9-day relaxed road trip in Romania is a story you will tell for the rest of your life.

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