Relaxed 9-Day Romania Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Craiova to Bucharest
Description
Included
Description
Sit back and enjoy a relaxed 9-day road trip in Romania with this laid-back self-drive vacation.
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. With this travel plan, you could also soak in the atmosphere of the memorable Cișmigiu Gardens. Get close to the spectacular "alexandru Ioan Cuza" Park and the wonderful Children's Town Bucharest. 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!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- 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.
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.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Craiova, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Hotel Bavaria, a top-rated dining destination in Craiova. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Mode Cafe, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Essenza Bar & Restaurant. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Craiova this evening.
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.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Tipsy, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Miky's Pub offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Gelateria Scena provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
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.
Day 2
- 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.
Whether you prefer a leisurely exploration or a more fast-paced adventure, this itinerary in Craiova allows for both. Start by heading to Craiova. This up-and-coming palace provides an insightful glimpse into the city's identity. Next, discover Craiova's Old Town, a history-steeped street, promising a delightful encounter.
Continue your sightseeing with a visit to "alexandru Buia" Botanical Garden, a worthwhile botanical garden. When you’re done, don’t forget to make a stop at the popular Nicolae Romanescu Park.
Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Mofleni.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Parcul Tineretului. Spend some time admiring the eye-catching features of the park before you continue to your next stop.
In the city of Bucharest, 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 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 Coftale Specialty Coffee Shop, 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 PAPILA, 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 Complex Herăstrău, a hidden gem nestled in Bucharest. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
As the day is coming to an end, stop at some of Bucharest’s best bars to celebrate this day of your slow-paced adventure in Romania.
Continue your lively evening at The Vintage Pub, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Newton Cocktail Bar is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Qp Pub ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Romania!
Day 3
- 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!
Set out on a day brimming with fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Start at the impressive King Mihai I Park, an eye-catching park in Bucharest. Next, go to Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum In Bucharest.
After visiting King Mihai I Park and Dimitrie Gusti National Village Museum In Bucharest, take time to explore Bucharest's streets and absorb its charm. Continue your sightseeing by heading to Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum. This photogenic museum offers a unique experience. Romanian Athenaeum is another noteworthy stop. End your self-guided sightseeing tour on top with a visit to Cișmigiu Gardens, one of the most romantic places to visit in Bucharest.
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.
Treat yourself to a wonderful meal at Bruno Wine Bar & Bistro, a top-rated dining spot in Bucharest. If you're in the mood for something new, try Hanu' Berarilor Casa Oprea Soare, another premier location with a delectable menu. You might also want to book a table at Vatra Restaurant. Known for its consistently satisfied patrons, it’s a perfect choice to elevate your evening 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.
After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Control Club, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Wicked Bar offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Manasia Hub provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.
Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Romania!
Day 4
- Bucharest
- More
Drive 16 km, 47 min
- Izvor Park
- National Museum of Art
- "Carol I" Park
- Children's World Park
- Tineretului Park
- More
Day 4 introduces you to many popular attractions and activities in Bucharest, further proving that leisurely self-drive tours in Romania are extraordinary.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several fun adventures, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Bucharest on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Izvor Park is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this mesmerizing park before continuing your journey. National Museum Of Art Of Romania is your next stop. This beloved museum is one of the best-rated sights in Bucharest.
Consider grabbing some lunch or a light snack to keep your energy going. Beyond the above-mentioned attractions, today is also the perfect time to visit Carol Park. This eye-catching park is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit "children's World" Park and Tineretului Park.
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 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 lovely dining experience at Restaurant Bucătărașul, a popular restaurant in Bucharest. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Bucharest at Aubergine Restaurant, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated SkyBar. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Bucharest tonight.
As the day is coming to an end, retreat to your hotel for some rest, or head out to a bar to celebrate your time in Bucharest. The bars in Bucharest make the perfect setting for a laid-back drink and chilled hangout with your travel companions.
Continue your lively evening at Origo, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. The Pub Bucharest is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Coppa Coffee & Wine Bar Dorobanti ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
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!
Day 5
- Bucharest
- More
Drive 20 km, 52 min
- Children's Town Bucharest
- Bucharest Fountains
- Alexandru Ioan Cuza Park (I O R )
- 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!
Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and exploration in Bucharest today. One of the most popular attractions included on the itinerary is Children's Town Bucharest. This picture-perfect amusement park will help you start your sightseeing on top. Then, take a leisurely stroll to Bucharest Fountains and learn what makes this romantic art installation unique.
Throughout the day, make sure to take breaks to appreciate the surroundings. Next up, visit the popular "alexandru Ioan Cuza" Park.
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.
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.
Dine in style at Phoenicia Grand Hotel, a top recommendation for dinner tonight. Or, for a change of pace, Hanu' Berarilor Casa Elena Lupescu boasts a menu that's sure to impress. Also, be sure to check out Stadio Unirii. Known as a local hotspot, it’s a great choice for tonight in Bucharest.
Hang out and unwind at some of the top bars in Bucharest.
Let the evening flow smoothly from dinner to drinks at Zeppelin Pub, a top-rated bar in the area.
Grab yourself a drink and savor every moment of your relaxed road trip experience in Romania!
Day 6
- Bucharest
- Buftea
- Chitila railway station
- Balotești
- More
Drive 75 km, 1 hour 49 min
- Ştirbey Domain
- Arboretum Chitila
- Therme Bucharest
- 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.
Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Buftea, 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 Bucharest to Buftea may take around 40 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Buftea, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.
Ştirbei Domain is an often recommended castle we recommend making time to visit today. Discover its visually striking features before continuing your self-guided tour.
When you’ve had your share of Buftea, prepare for your next destination. Admire the views and listen to some good music as you drive in the direction of Chitila. Your travel time is around 17 min.
Make your way to The Dendrological Park, a curiosity-inducing botanical garden that draws attention for its eye-catching features.
Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Balotești. This drive usually takes around 20 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.
Your self-guided tour starts at Therme Bucharest, a popular 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 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 reserve a table at Auchan, 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 Osho, 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 Le Bab, a hidden gem nestled in Bucharest. Known for its exquisite cuisine and inviting atmosphere, it's a dining experience you won't soon forget.
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.
Free your mind of worries as you enjoy the taste of freedom on your laid-back, relaxed road trip adventure across Romania.
Day 7
- Bucharest
- Snagov
- Piscu
- Dumbrăveni
- More
Drive 111 km, 2 hours 30 min
- Snagov Forest
- Snagov Monastery
- Snagov Forest protected area
- Țigănești Monastery
- Edenland Park
- More
On day 7 of your relaxed road trip, you’ll start your self-paced adventure in Bucharest and visit amazing attractions in Snagov, Piscu, and Dumbrăveni 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.
Immerse yourself in Snagov’s rich culture with today's sightseeing itinerary.
Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Bucharest and set your GPS to Snagov. 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 45 min. Upon reaching Snagov, 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 Snagov Forest. Spend some time admiring the romantic features of the nature reserve before you continue to your next stop. Then, head to Snagov Monastery. This frequently visited monastery is a traveler-favorite in the municipality. Not far away, you’ll also find Snagov Forest Protected Area. Feed your curiosity by learning something new about the nature reserve.
When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Snagov, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Piscu. This drive usually takes around 11 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Țigănești Monastery. Spend some time admiring the picture-perfect features of the monastery before you continue to your next stop.
As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Piscu, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Dumbrăveni may take around 21 min. Upon your arrival in Dumbrăveni, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.
Head to Edenland Park, a worthwhile adventure park in Dumbrăveni. Explore its stunning features at your own pace before you continue your journey.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll return to Bucharest and your accommodation.
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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Pub 18, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Romanian Craft Beer offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Radisson Blu Hotel, Bucharest. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Bucharest.
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.
Raise your glass in celebration of your freedom and relaxed road trip adventure in Romania!
Day 8
- Bucharest
- Pantelimon
- Pasărea
- Craiova
- More
Drive 293 km, 4 hours 26 min
- Ferma Animalelor
- Pasărea monastery
- Cernica monastery
- 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.
Pantelimon’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Bucharest behind. This drive usually takes around 30 min. Pantelimon welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.
One of our top recommendations for your sightseeing is Ferma Animalelor. Spend some time admiring the instagrammable features of the petting zoo before you continue to your next stop.
When you arrive in Pasărea, it's time to take a break from the road.
Your self-guided tour starts at Pasărea Monastery, a locally appreciated monastery that is sure to impress. Take in the surroundings and enjoy the freedom of exploring before you continue your journey.
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.
Head to Cernica Monastery, an often recommended monastery in Pantelimon. Explore its historic 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 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.
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 Craiova, explore the city like a local by trying out the best restaurants in the area.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at The Manor Restaurant & Lounge, a popular restaurant in Craiova. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Craiova at Dream On Pub, another great place to eat. With a menu designed to impress, it promises a journey of flavors that will leave you captivated. A third option to check out is the top-rated Restaurant Baba Novac. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Craiova tonight.
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 the enjoyment post-dinner at Soho, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Da Vinci offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Acsa. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Cherish every minute of your relaxed road trip vacation across Romania.
Day 9
- Craiova - Departure day
- 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.
Make the most of your final day in Romania by visiting Craiova’s iconic markets and shopping establishments in the buzzing Electroputere Parc Mall. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience 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.
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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