Cheap 11-Day Romania Road Trip from Craiova to Târgu Jiu, Hateg, Alba Iulia, Brasov, and Bucharest

Your exciting 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 popular cheap holiday destination in Romania with something to offer every traveler. More than a city in Romania, Craiova is also a great place to find top-rated budget accommodations. You'll find many of these accommodations close to bustling markets and cultural attractions.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Nicolae Romanescu Park. This extraordinary park is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 17,064 visitors.

A cheap, budget vacation in Craiova should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Craiova, try some of our top recommendations.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Essenza Bar & Restaurant, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. The Manor Restaurant & Lounge is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Dream On Pub.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Craiova, Miky's Pub. Gelateria SCENA is another popular bar in the area, perfect for people looking for a place to unwind and enjoy local drinks alone or with company. Locals also recommend Soho, offering popular drinks and a lively atmosphere.

Enjoy toasting the start of a terrific road trip vacation and a cheap holiday experience in Romania!

On day 2 of your cheap holiday travels in Romania, you’ll tour 2: Craiova and Mofleni. You'll stay in Târgu Jiu for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to English Park. This park is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 2,346 visitors.

Craiova is another popular attraction you could visit today. This municipiu of romania has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 522 visitors.

Art museum of Craiova is also highly recommended by travelers. This museum has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 1,279 visitors.

Musical Fountain is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This park is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 1,082 reviews.

When you arrive in Mofleni, it's time to take a break from the road.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Parcul Tineretului. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 2,339 visitors.

While exploring Romania is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Târgu Jiu has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Târgu Jiu on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Savor the culinary delights of Târgu Jiu, where affordability meets excellence in dining and drinking. From inviting bars crafting signature cocktails to cozy eateries serving up local favorites, the city offers an unforgettable experience for every taste bud.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Pizza Hunter, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Terasa ANNA is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Aqua.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Traby, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out. Moreover, Iris Grill & Bar is another popular option for a drink or two. Likewise, GUSTAV's PLACE also provides a great ambiance for reminiscing about the day and raising a toast to your vacation.

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Romania!

On day 3 of your road trip through popular and cheap vacation spots across Romania, you’ll experience 3 charming destinations — Târgu Jiu, Bumbesti-Jiu, and Sarmizegetusa. How much time you’ll spend in each location is up to you. You’ll end your day in the town of Hateg, where you'll stay for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Gate of the Kis. This sculpture is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 10,617 reviews.

Next up, make your way to Infinity Column. This sightseeing destination has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 11,173 reviews.

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

Drop by the renowned Lainici Monastery. This popular orthodox monastery‎ has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 5,436 visitors.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Hateg. This drive usually takes around 15 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Ulpia Traiana Sarmizegetusa. This ancient city is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Sarmizegetusa, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars by 8,545 visitors.

Hateg offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Romania. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the town.

A cheap, budget vacation in Hateg should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Hateg, try some of our top recommendations.

Cherish every minute of your road trip vacation across Romania. Celebrate this opportunity to enjoy a cheap holiday in Romania!

Day 4 of your road trip across Romania is another proof that cheap holidays in Romania can indeed provide you an extraordinary travel experience. Today's agenda includes touring 4 wonderful destinations — Hateg, Hunedoara County, Deva, and Alba Iulia. You’ll explore along your route leading to the city of Alba Iulia, where you'll be spending 1 night.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Deva. This drive usually takes around 30 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Castelul Corvinilor (Corvins' Castle). This museum is a popular stop on travelers’ itineraries in Hunedoara County, with an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 42,393 visitors.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Hunedoara County and set your GPS to Deva. While on the road, immerse yourself in your favorite road trip tunes or sample the sounds from a local radio station. This car ride usually takes around 30 min. Upon reaching Deva, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Journey into the unknown at Fortress of Deva, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable castle has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 11,127 reviews.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Alba Iulia. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Alba Iulia, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

When it's time to eat or savor a refreshing drink, treat yourself to a delightful dining and drinking experience without paying more than necessary. Alba Iulia has restaurants and bars for all budgets, perfect for cheap holiday-goers.

After a day filled with excitement, indulge in a satisfying meal at Panoramic-Bar&Grill, offering a menu full of delicious options at reasonable prices. Featuring an enticing array of mouthwatering delights, La Poarta is another must-visit dining spot. For an authentic dining experience favored by locals, make your way to Blue Hours, where you can also enjoy great food and warm hospitality.

Unwind after your meal by stepping into framm's. This venue is celebrated for its extensive drink selections and cozy vibes. Alternatively, Enjoy Life S. R. L. Offers a dynamic and energetic atmosphere for a glass or two. Don’t overlook Art Cafe Downtown, another top-rated bar in the area.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in Romania! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Alba Iulia!

Day 5 of your self-drive vacation in Romania will take you to the city of Brasov, where you'll be staying for 2 nights. On your way to Brasov, you'll explore 1 popular cheap holiday destinations in Romania, including Sibiu.

Once you're ready to continue your road trip, it's time to buckle up and drive, eagerly anticipating your arrival in Sibiu. This drive usually takes around 59 min, without any stops or traffic disruptions.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is The Bridge of Lies. This point of interest is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 20,465 reviews.

Continue your journey at The Large Square. This sightseeing destination is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 16,200 travelers from near and far.

Sibiu is also the home of Dumbrava Sibiului Natural Park. This protected area has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 21,831 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Sibiu Zoological Garden. Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 15,956 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

While exploring Romania is a refreshing experience, don’t forget to rest to regain your energy. Brasov has plenty of top-rated accommodation options in all price ranges. Travelers visiting Brasov on an affordable vacation can easily find a comfortable place to stay in the city.

Savor the mouthwatering delights of Brasov, where top-quality dining experiences blend seamlessly with budget-friendly options. Check out the city's best restaurant and bar options, offering a tantalizing array of flavors to satisfy every palate. Whether you're in the mood for a casual bite or a refreshing cocktail, these spots have something for everyone.

La Birou Bistro offers delicious bites without straining your wallet. For a taste of local cuisine with a twist, venture to Opus 9. Or, try Mado, where reasonable prices and warm hospitality create a welcoming atmosphere for diners seeking a memorable dining experience.

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

Raise your glass in celebration of your incredible road trip adventure and cheap holiday experience in Romania!

On day 6 of your affordable vacation in Romania, you’ll start and end your day in Brasov, but spend some time exploring destinations outside the city. With 1 night left in Brasov, you'll have enough time to check out top-rated restaurants and try out unique activities that will enhance your road trip experience.

Take the opportunity to see Tâmpa. This attraction has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,887 visitors.

Brașov city hall is another sightseeing hotspot in the area. This building has been rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars by 16,344 travelers.

Brasov is also the home of Parcul Nicolae Titulescu. Around 8,909 people have rated this park an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars.

When you’re ready to jump back into the car and say goodbye to Brasov, you’ll hit the road in the direction of Bran. This drive usually takes around 32 min. When you arrive, enjoy some sightseeing.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is Bran Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars in 92,558 reviews.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Bran, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Rupea may take around 1 hour 19 min. Upon your arrival in Rupea, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

Take the opportunity to see Rupea Citadel. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 11,170 visitors.

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

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Brasov offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Romania.

After a day of exploring, unwind at the popular Urban Grill, serving up a tempting array of dishes that are well-loved by budget-savvy travelers. Publick is another great hotspot for culinary gems. If you’re into something unique but crafted with care and creativity, then head to Bistro Aha.

Karma Lounge offers many snacks and liquors at different price points. But if you’d like to interact with locals and fellow travelers in Brasov, check out Motor Pub. You can also ensure a good time in this cheap holiday destination at Tipografia.

Toast to another unforgettable road trip adventure during your cheap holiday in Romania!

Day 7 of your road trip across Romania offers you the chance to visit 2 popular cheap holiday destinations in the country, including Sinaia and Bușteni. You'll conclude your sightseeing and exploration in Bucharest, where you'll stay for 3 nights.

Sinaia’s wonders await as you prepare for another journey on the road, leaving the breathtaking surroundings of Brasov behind. This drive usually takes around 57 min. Sinaia welcomes you with a multitude of unique vacation experiences.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Peleș Castle, a remarkable castle where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 62,325 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Dimitrie Ghica Park. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 15,547 travelers.

Embrace the thrill of the open road as you wave goodbye to Sinaia and set your GPS to Bușteni. 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 12 min. Upon reaching Bușteni, unwind, observe, and explore. The best things to do, see, and eat are waiting for you.

Be one of the day’s first visitors at Cantacuzino Castle. This castle is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 19,939 visitors.

When you’re finished at Cantacuzino Castle, head to Caraiman Monastery. This one-of-a-kind place of worship is rated an average of 4.8 out of 5 stars in 11,981 reviews.

Bucharest offers many top-rated accommodations suitable for travelers on a budget vacation in Romania. Whether you're in need of a quick break from your activities or seeking a comfortable place to rest, rest assured you'll find a welcoming and affordable option in the city.

Make the most of your budget vacation in Romania by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Bucharest that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Treat yourself to a delicious meal at Coftale Specialty Coffee Shop, where every bite is a flavor-packed adventure! With an enticing menu of affordable delights, this spot is a must-visit for foodies on a budget. Another hotspot worth exploring during your cheap getaway is PAPILA - a local favorite and a top pick for mouthwatering delights. If you're eager to dine where the locals love, don't miss out on Hanu' Berarilor Casa Oprea Soare, where fantastic food and friendly service await!

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

Celebrate another day of your adventure-filled road trip through Romania with a toast. Cheers to a memorable cheap vacation experience in Romania!

Get ready for another thrilling road trip adventure both in and around Bucharest on day 8 of your affordable vacation in Romania. You’ll continue your stay in Bucharest for an additional 2 nights. Explore more top attractions in Romania, immerse yourself in diverse cultures, and enjoy unique experiences!

Make Children's World Park one of your first sightseeing stops in Bucharest. Rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 11,125 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

Tineretului Park is a worthwhile attraction you can visit next. This park is a valued place of interest in the area, with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 37,293 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Balotești. This car ride takes around 29 min.

Make Therme one of your first sightseeing stops in Balotești. Rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 38,733 travelers, a visit to this local attraction makes for a great introduction to the area.

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

Make the most of your budget vacation in Romania by treating yourself to a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. You’ll find many great restaurants and bars in Bucharest that offer delicious foods and drinks to help keep you going.

Hanu' Berarilor Casa Elena Lupescu stands out as a haven for budget-conscious travelers seeking exceptional flavors. Indulge in a delightful array of mouthwatering options. For those craving a casual dining experience, Stadio Unirii offers mouthwatering dishes that are sure to satisfy any palate. Don't miss out on the charming ambiance and diverse menu at Osho, where every bite promises a delightful dining experience.

After dinner, look back into the highlights of today’s adventure and visit one of the best bars in Bucharest, Manasia Hub. Alternatively, visit Origo, a great place for anyone who is into classic bar drinks. You can also drop by The PUB Bucharest, where you can have drinks, let loose, and socialize.

A road trip vacation in Balotești can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Romania!

On day 9 of your budget-friendly road trip adventure in Romania, you’ll go deep into Bucharest and see some of the destination’s most unforgettable attractions. Enjoy a feast at the end of the day, making the most of the time you have in the city of Bucharest — 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Parcul Crângași. This park is rated an average of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 8,439 visitors.

King Mihai I Park (Herăstrău) CA is another popular attraction you could visit today. This park has a rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 60,313 visitors.

Grigore Antipa Natural History Museum is also highly recommended by travelers. More than 150,001 people visit this top attraction every year. This natural history museum has a rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 18,035 visitors.

Cișmigiu Gardens is an attraction you won’t want to miss. This park is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars in 37,082 reviews.

Another attraction you have the opportunity to visit today is Constitution Square. This sightseeing destination has received an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 19,443 travelers.

Visiting the most popular travel destinations in Romania sometimes leaves you longing for more. Fortunately, there are plenty of unique and cheap tours to try out in Romania. Romania has something for everyone, and you can easily pick an activity you can add to your affordable vacation package. Check out all of the budget-friendly tours in Romania that will fill you with new inspiration.

A cheap, budget vacation in Bucharest should not stop you from enjoying incredible food and refreshing drinks. When you're ready for the best dining and bar experiences in Bucharest, try some of our top recommendations.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Romanian Craft Beer, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is 18Lounge, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss Arcade Cafe, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Complement this refreshing day with an equally refreshing drink at one of the best bars in the city of Bucharest, Zeppelin Pub.

Cheers for an adventure-filled road trip vacation in Romania! Celebrate this incredible opportunity for an affordable travel experience in the city of Bucharest!

On day 10 of your cheap holiday travels in Romania, you’ll tour 1: Bucharest. You'll stay in Craiova for 1 night, giving you enough time to satisfy your wanderlust and craving for new experiences.

An excellent attraction to start your day with is University Square. This square is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 6,620 reviews.

Continue your journey at Carol Park. This urban park is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars by 16,367 travelers from near and far.

Bucharest is also the home of Alexandru Ioan Cuza Park. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 31,456 visitors.

You can continue your self-guided sightseeing tour at Izvor Park. Rated 4.3 out of 5 stars by 19,327 visitors, a visit to this top sight is time well spent.

Lastly, don't miss out on Romanian Athenaeum. With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars from 14,073 reviews, it’s hard to refuse the opportunity to see this concert hall.

You’ll also have your choice of the best budget-friendly accommodations in the city of Craiova. So when it's time for a break from your adventures in Craiova, relax and restore your energy at any of the following affordable places to stay.

As this day progresses, satisfy your hunger and quench your thirst at one of the city's best restaurants and bars. Many restaurants in Craiova offer good food and drink options at even better prices; the perfect combination for travelers on affordable vacations in Romania.

After a day of fun adventures, treat yourself to the best dining experience at Restaurant Baba Novac, where affordable mouthwatering dishes await. Another gem to discover during your memorable getaway is One Garden, highly regarded as one of the area's top dining spots. If you're eager to dine at a local-favorite spot, don't miss Pizza Peter's, an excellent choice to fulfill your cravings for delicious food and great service.

Following your dinner, dive into the local bar culture at Da Vinci. Alternatively, go to Old Court Biergarten, the perfect place for those looking to experience the best of the nightlife. Similarly, Street Cafe provides excellent drinks and a great atmosphere, ensuring a memorable night out.

A road trip vacation in Bucharest can’t get any better than this! Toast to another amazing day in this cheap holiday destination in Romania!

Your budget road trip vacation in Romania is about to end. Day 11 is your departure day and your last chance to capture the beauty of Craiova.

Make the most of your final day in Romania by visiting Craiova’s iconic markets and shopping establishments. Your stay’s proximity to the city’s retail haven invites an unhurried and unforgettable exploration of its variety of stores and establishments. Secure the perfect souvenirs for your family and friends back home or buy yourself a remembrance of your amazing experience in Romania. Take home a piece of Romania with these souvenirs, keeping your adventures close.

One fantastic attraction you could visit on your last day in Craiova is the remarkable "Alexandru Buia" Botanical Garden. This park and popular place of interest has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 8,139 visitors.

Before you conclude your road trip in Romania, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Craiova.

As you prepare to bid farewell to Craiova, why not indulge in one last culinary delight at Casa Ghincea, where you can enjoy a satisfying and budget-friendly meal? Alternatively, Dong Fang Restaurant Chinezesc features a variety of signature dishes to suit every taste, budget, and occasion. For those seeking a taste of flavorful delights, Le Baron Restaurant is a highly recommended spot.

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!