9-Day Romania Self-Drive Road Trip With Itinerary from Craiova traveling west to Băile Herculane, Timișoara, Deva, Alba Iulia, Cluj Napoca, and Petroșani
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Description
Experience the freedom of the open road in Romania as you embark on an unforgettable 9-day road trip! This experience caters to every traveler, featuring destinations like Craiova, Mofleni, Băile Herculane, Bozovici, Timișoara, Deva, Sibiu, Alba Iulia, Turda, Cluj Napoca, Simeria, Hunedoara County, Bănița, Petroșani, Bumbesti-Jiu, and Târgu Jiu.
This perfectly planned road trip itinerary in Romania takes you through some of the best places to see in the country. You will spend 2 nights in Craiova, 1 night in Băile Herculane, 1 night in Timișoara, 1 night in Deva, 1 night in Alba Iulia, 1 night in Cluj Napoca, and 1 night in Petroșani. Anticipate well-spent days sightseeing, eating delicious food, and experiencing the highlights of each destination!
With this travel package, you can choose from an extensive selection of accommodations along your road trip route in Romania. We have handpicked the best hotels and places to stay across the country, including options for each budget. Whether you are in the mood for luxurious 5-star hotels or budget-friendly bed and breakfasts, we have got you covered.
Upon arriving in Craiova, the rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for collection. From there, the road trip can begin! Experience the ultimate freedom and uncover Romania on your own terms.
An expertly curated travel plan makes sure you don’t miss out on any of the best things to see and do on your road trip in Romania. Castelul Corvinilor (corvins' Castle) and Salina Turda are just a couple of the bucket-list attractions that await your discovery. Marvel at the remarkable Central Park Simion Bărnuțiu, learn more about the unique Dumbrava Sibiului Natural Park, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of The Bridge Of Lies.
As you hit the open road and drive through Craiova, Mofleni, Băile Herculane, Bozovici, Timișoara, Deva, Sibiu, Alba Iulia, Turda, Cluj Napoca, Simeria, Hunedoara County, Bănița, Petroșani, Bumbesti-Jiu, and Târgu Jiu, you will also enjoy plenty of opportunities to uncover hidden gems and experience the authentic charm of Romania. Whether you are exploring enchanting towns and villages, discovering scenic routes, or indulging in local cuisine, there is always something new and exciting to experience in Romania.
Throughout your road trip in Romania, take breaks from sightseeing to explore your favorite destinations' top shopping streets and markets. Discover unique souvenirs that will forever remind you of your self-drive adventure in Romania.
This package offers an all-in-one solution for your trip planning - choose flights, a rental car, accommodation, attractions, and tours that suit your needs and desires. You can customize each day of your road trip itinerary with flexible trip planning before and after booking.
The best services in Romania fill up quickly, so book your spot early. Select a date and start planning your road trip in Romania today!
Itinerary summary
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Day 1
- Craiova - Arrival day
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- Centrul Vechi al Craiovei
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Say hello to Craiova! Your exciting road trip through Romania is just about to start. Navigating the top places to see in the region is a breeze with a car. The rental vehicle of your choice will be ready for pickup upon your arrival in the city. You will stay in Craiova for 1 night before you continue your adventure!
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 just 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 Craiova. 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. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in Craiova, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.
Don’t miss out on dining 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.
Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Tipsy, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Miky's Pub is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, Gelateria Scena also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.
Raise a toast to the start of your 9-day road trip in Romania!
Day 2
- Craiova
- Băile Herculane
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Drive 167 km, 3 hours 8 min
- Alexandru Buia" Botanical Garden
- Nicolae Romanescu Park
- Zoo Park Craiova
- Parcul Tineretului
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On day 2 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 Craiova and Mofleni. In the evening, you’ll end up in Băile Herculane, where you will stay for 1 night.
Craiova is brimming with adventures. Today’s wonderful stops include a botanical garden, a park, and a zoo. Begin your sightseeing adventure at the increasingly popular "alexandru Buia" Botanical Garden and allow yourself time to explore. Just a short distance away you'll find your next stop, Nicolae Romanescu Park, an eye-catching park that draws visitors from far and near.
Continue your journey to Zoo Park Craiova, one of the city’s most increasingly popular spots that you shouldn’t miss. Another great site to visit is the intriguing Parcul Tineretului.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Băile Herculane. Băile Herculane offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Băile Herculane. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Romania!
Day 3
- Băile Herculane
- Timișoara
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Drive 220 km, 3 hours 44 min
- Hercules' statue
- Sequoia Gigantea
- Izvorul Domogled
- Bigar Cascade Falls
- Izvorul Bigăr
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 3 of your road trip in Romania. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Băile Herculane and Bozovici. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Timișoara, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.
Start by visiting The Statue Of Heracles, a prime spot to begin your journey. This culturally significant monument is sure to impress. Next on your list is Sequoia Gigantea, another must-visit landmark and underrated monument renowned for its picture-perfect features.
While exploring and sightseeing, take time to savor the culture of Băile Herculane by sampling some local delicacies. When you’re ready for more sightseeing, head to Izvorul Domogled. This instagrammable hot spring is an essential place to visit for anyone looking for the full Băile Herculane experience. We also recommend visiting Bigar Cascade Falls, a beloved waterfall. Nearby, you'll also find Izvorul Bigăr, ready to add charm to your journey.
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.
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.
Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Hotel Boutique Casa del Sole, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? Rivière Brasserie offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Homemade. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Timișoara.
Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Scârț, A Chill Place. Enjoy this evening's relaxed ambiance with delightful drinks. Alternatively, go to The 80's Pub, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, La Pisici Cafe provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.
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.
Day 4
- Timișoara
- Deva
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Drive 151 km, 2 hours 8 min
- The Old Town of Timișoara
- Orthodox Metropolitan Cathedral
- Victory Square
- Liberty Square
- Union Square
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On day 4 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Romania, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 1 destination, Timișoara. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in Deva, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.
Brace yourself for today’s incredible lineup of attractions in Timișoara, featuring family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and breathtaking views. Start at The Old Town Of Timișoara, an up-and-coming public square in the city. Then, head to "three Holy Hierarchs" Metropolitan Cathedral and soak in the ambiance of this monumental church.
There are many interesting places to see in Timișoara, and when you are ready for more, go to Victory Square. This is one of the city’s most notable history-steeped spots of interest. After exploring the public square, visit the increasingly popular Libertății Square In Timișoara. Not far away, you'll also find Piața Unirii. This public square is a visually striking highlight in Timișoara.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Deva. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Deva. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.
Enjoy a lovely dining experience at Pizza De La Casa, a popular restaurant in Deva. This acclaimed establishment has earned the admiration of countless food lovers in the city. Alternatively, experience a taste of Deva at Casina, 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 Dunărea. It’s yet another ideal choice to enhance your time in Deva tonight.
Continue your lively evening at Akkademia De Bere, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Koson Cafe is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Cozy Corner ensures a night out tailored to your taste.
Relax and reminisce about your day in Romania and look forward to more memorable moments to come!
Day 5
- Deva
- Alba County
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Drive 227 km, 3 hours 1 min
- The Bridge of Lies
- The Large Square
- Sibiu Zoological Garden
- Dumbrava Sibiului Natural Park
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Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 5 of your road trip in Romania. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 1 vibrant destinations - Sibiu. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Alba Iulia. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.
Today’s agenda in Deva includes a historical landmark, a public square, a zoo, a park and much more! The Bridge Of Lies is must-visit historical landmark and a great starting point for the day. Next, continue your journey to The Large Square, a notable public square, located just a leisurely stroll away. Next, head to Sibiu Zoological Garden, an instagrammable zoo, also available for your discovery today.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Alba Iulia. Alba Iulia offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Alba Iulia. 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.
Enjoy a lovely meal at Panoramic-Bar&Grill, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, La Poarta is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Blue Hours. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Alba Iulia tonight.
Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Framm's, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Enjoy Life S. R. L. Offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out Art Cafe Downtown. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.
Say good night to Alba Iulia and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Romania!
Day 6
- Alba County
- Cluj-Napoca
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Drive 107 km, 2 hours 1 min
- Salina Turda
- Alexandru Borza Botanical Garden
- Central Park Simion Bărnuțiu
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Dive into day 6 of your remarkable road trip in Romania. Today you will explore Turda and Cluj Napoca, 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 Cluj Napoca. You’ll stay here for 1 night.
Savor the day by visiting some of the best places to see in Alba Iulia, including a cave system, a botanical garden, and a park. Start your adventure at Salina Turda. This notable cave system is a must-visit for travelers looking for a unique holiday experience. Make your way to Alexandru Borza Botanical Garden located in Alba Iulia for another exciting encounter.
Next, immerse yourself in the setting of Central Park Simion Bărnuțiu. Its mesmerizing features will captivate you.
At the end of the day, you will drive to Cluj Napoca, 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 Cluj Napoca's most popular restaurants, and connect with friendly locals for an authentic adventure.
Enjoy a delicious meal at Roata, a highly-rated dining destination in Cluj Napoca. If you're eager to try something different, consider Dacian House Restaurant, another top spot with a tantalizing menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Jaxx. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s an excellent choice to enhance your stay in Cluj Napoca this evening.
Round off your dining experience by visiting Yolka, a prime location for a drink. Alternatively, explore the distinctive characteristics of La Țevi, a bar catering to every mood and preference. L'autre Café likewise offers a unique atmosphere, perfect for a memorable night out.
Relax and recharge in preparation for another adventurous day in Romania!
Day 7
- Cluj-Napoca
- Petroșani
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Drive 249 km, 3 hours 37 min
- Arboretum Park Simeria
- Castelul Corvinilor (Corvins' Castle)
- Banita Gorges
- Bolii Cave
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On day 7 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 Simeria, Hunedoara County, and Bănița. In the evening, you’ll end up in Petroșani, where you will stay for 1 night.
Today’s well-planned self-sightseeing route offers several family-friendly attractions, romantic experiences, and natural wonders. Whether you decide to explore Cluj Napoca on foot, use public transport, or join a guided tour, there are a few attractions you don’t want to miss. Arboretum Park Simeria is the first of them. Spend some time admiring this peaceful botanical garden before continuing your journey. Castelul Corvinilor (corvins' Castle) is your next stop. This notable castle is one of the best-rated sights in Cluj Napoca.
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 Banita Gorges. This eye-catching canyon is a sight to behold. To round off your sightseeing experience, visit Bolii Cave.
When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to your hotel in Petroșani. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to tour the city.
After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of Petroșani's best restaurants.
Take some time to reflect on your day and savor another beautiful night in Romania.
Day 8
- Petroșani
- Craiova
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Drive 167 km, 2 hours 54 min
- Defileul Jiului National Park
- Gate of the Kiss
- Table of Silence
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Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 8 of your road trip in Romania. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of Bumbesti-Jiu and Târgu Jiu. 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.
Today's adventure in Petroșani promises more breathtaking discoveries and enriching experiences! Begin at "defileul Jiului" National Park. This idyllic national park is a highlight of any visit in the town. Then, enjoy Gate Of The Kis, another photogenic attraction that never fails to captivate visitors. Next, head over to Table Of Silence, one of the town’s most worthwhile attractions, known for its detailed features.
After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to head in the direction of your accommodation in Craiova. Craiova offers plenty of top-rated hotels for every travel budget. Take some time to relax before you go out again.
As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Craiova. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.
Enjoy a delicious meal at The Manor Restaurant & Lounge, a top-rated dining destination in Craiova. If you're in the mood to try something new, consider Dream On Pub, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu. You might also want to secure a reservation at Restaurant Baba Novac. With a reputation for consistently satisfying customers, it’s a perfect choice to enhance your stay in Craiova this evening.
After your delicious meal, get a taste of the vibrant nightlife with a visit to Soho, known for its inviting atmosphere. Da Vinci is another great option if you’re looking for a place to get the night started. Similarly, Acsa provides a great setting to enjoy the night away.
Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Romania!
Day 9
- Craiova - Departure day
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- Musical Fountain
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Day 9 of your road trip in Romania is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Craiova before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
If you're up for some more sightseeing, we recommend visiting Musical Fountain, a romantic art installation before you head out.
On your last day in Romania, take time to indulge in shopping at Craiova’s popular marketplace, Electroputere Parc Mall. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.
Before you conclude your road trip in Romania, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Craiova.
Treat yourself to a delightful dinner at Hotel Meliss, highly recommended for tonight's dining. Or, if you're feeling adventurous, why not try One Garden? It's another excellent option with a diverse menu.
You’ll then say farewell to Craiova. 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!
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