How to Plan a Vacation in Romania with a Rental Car – A Complete Guide for Foreign Tourists

Romania is one of Europe’s most underrated travel destinations. Nestled between the Carpathian Mountains and the Black Sea, the country offers a unique blend of medieval castles, scenic landscapes, vibrant cities, and traditional villages. If you’re looking to explore Romania at your own pace, renting a car is by far the best choice.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about renting a car in Romania, how to plan your route, what to avoid, and how to make the most of your journey.

Why Explore Romania by Car?

Public transportation in Romania connects major cities, but it often lacks convenience when it comes to reaching rural areas, mountain resorts, or off-the-beaten-path destinations. Renting a car gives you the freedom to stop where you want, discover hidden gems, and travel on your own schedule. From alpine roads to medieval towns, Romania is a country made for road trips.

When Is the Best Time to Travel?

The best months for a road trip in Romania are between May and October. During this period, the weather is pleasant and roads are generally dry. July and August are the warmest and busiest months, while May, June, and September offer the best balance between good weather and fewer tourists. If you’re into winter sports, you can visit in December–February, but be prepared for snow and check if your rental car includes winter tires and chains.

What Documents Do You Need?

To rent a car in Romania, you will need:

A valid driver’s license (EU licenses are accepted; non-EU tourists may need an International Driving Permit)
A valid passport or ID
A credit or debit card for the deposit/guarantee

Check with the rental company if they accept debit cards – not all do. Also, ask about the minimum and maximum driver age. Some companies apply surcharges to drivers under 21 or over 70 years old.

Where to Rent a Car in Romania

One of the best places to start your journey is Cluj-Napoca, the unofficial capital of Transylvania. Cluj has an international airport, well-developed infrastructure, and quick access to mountain routes and historical sites. Local companies like Napoca Rent a Car offer competitive prices, English-speaking staff, and flexible pickup options, including at the airport, hotel, or train station.

Rental Car Costs and Types

Rental prices vary by season, car type, and duration. Here’s a general idea:

Economy cars (e.g., Dacia Logan, Ford Fiesta): €25–€40/day
Compact or automatic vehicles: €40–€60/day
SUVs or 4x4s: €60–€90/day

For weekly or monthly rentals, discounts are usually applied. It's worth checking if the price includes:

Unlimited mileage
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW)
24/7 Roadside Assistance
Second driver (optional)

Some local rental companies in Romania (especially in Cluj) provide full insurance options with zero deductible – ask about SCDW (Super Collision Damage Waiver).

Insurance Options and Deposit

Standard insurance is often included, but you are still liable for damage up to a certain amount (usually €500–€1,500). If you want to avoid this risk, ask for full coverage or SCDW. Most companies require a security deposit (blocked on your card), which is returned upon safe return of the car. Always check the car’s condition and take pictures when picking it up.

Is it Safe to Drive in Romania?

Driving in Romania is generally safe, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

Always wear a seatbelt and avoid using mobile phones without a hands-free system
Be cautious in rural areas – animals or carts may appear on the road
Use headlights at all times, even during the day (it's mandatory)
Speed limits: 50 km/h in towns, 90 km/h outside, 130 km/h on highways

Traffic in cities can be intense during rush hours, and parking is sometimes limited. In rural areas, road quality may vary. Use Google Maps or Waze for live traffic updates.

Top 5 Scenic Road Trip Routes in Romania

Romania offers some of the most scenic and thrilling driving experiences in Europe. Here are five must-drive routes that showcase the country’s natural beauty and historical charm:

Transfăgărășan Highway (DN7C) – Often called the most beautiful road in the world, this 90-kilometer alpine route crosses the Făgăraș Mountains and offers spectacular views, hairpin turns, and access to Bâlea Lake and Waterfall. Best visited from July to October due to snow closures in winter.
Transalpina (DN67C) – The highest road in Romania, peaking at over 2,100 meters. It traverses the Parâng Mountains and is less crowded than the Transfăgărășan. Expect breathtaking views, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Maramureș Wooden Churches Route – This northern route connects villages filled with UNESCO-protected wooden churches and authentic Romanian rural life. Ideal for cultural immersion and slow travel experiences.
Cluj-Napoca to Sibiu via Alba Iulia – A mix of medieval towns, fortified churches, and the impressive Alba Carolina Citadel. A perfect 2–3 day loop filled with history and architecture.
Danube Gorge (Cazanele Dunării) – Drive along the Danube River through the Iron Gates Natural Park. You'll pass the giant rock sculpture of Decebalus, caves, and dramatic cliffside views. Great for photography lovers!

Hidden Gems You Can Only Reach by Car

Beyond the famous attractions, Romania hides some truly magical places that can’t be reached by train or bus. With a rental car, you can explore:

Rimetea Village (near Cluj) – A Hungarian-Romanian heritage site surrounded by steep cliffs. Picture-perfect and peaceful.
Răchițele Waterfall – Also known as “Bride’s Veil Waterfall”, it's hidden deep in the Apuseni Mountains, accessible only by car and a short hike.
Viscri – One of Prince Charles’ favorite villages, famous for its fortified church and Saxon architecture.
Sighișoara Countryside – Surrounding this medieval town are rolling hills and forgotten villages, ideal for slow exploration.

These spots offer an authentic Romanian experience away from the crowds — perfect for travelers looking for peace, photography, and culture.

Eco-Friendly Car Rental Tips

Traveling sustainably is becoming a priority for many tourists. If you're concerned about your environmental impact, here’s how to rent and drive more responsibly in Romania:

Choose hybrid or electric cars – Some rental agencies, especially local ones in Cluj-Napoca, offer eco models. Always ask in advance.
Use eco-driving techniques – Accelerate gently, avoid idling, and plan routes to reduce fuel consumption.
Offset your carbon footprint – Consider donating to reforestation or carbon-offset programs when traveling long distances.
Support local businesses – Stay at guesthouses, eat local food, and shop handmade souvenirs to minimize mass-tourism impact.

Companies like Napoca Rent a Car are increasingly offering green options and encouraging responsible travel. Supporting local eco-conscious businesses is a win for everyone.

Important Travel Tips for Foreign Tourists

Before you hit the road in Romania, keep these key tips in mind:

Don’t rely only on your phone – Mobile coverage is good but not guaranteed in remote areas. Download offline maps or bring a GPS.
Carry cash – Many villages or rural gas stations don’t accept cards. Have some RON (Romanian Leu) with you.
Watch for wildlife – Especially in forested mountain areas. Slow down at dusk and dawn.
Refuel often – Gas stations can be rare in remote areas. Don’t wait until your tank is nearly empty.
Emergency number is 112 – Available in English 24/7.

Romanian people are generally very friendly and helpful, even if they don’t always speak fluent English. A smile and polite approach go a long way!

Final Checklist Before You Rent

To make sure your Romanian road trip goes smoothly, here’s a checklist before confirming your rental:

✔️ Check your driver’s license validity and age requirements
✔️ Decide on car size (compact for cities, SUV for mountains)
✔️ Understand deposit and insurance terms
✔️ Choose extras (GPS, baby seat, snow chains if winter)
✔️ Book early for better prices and more options

Conclusion: Romania Awaits

Romania is not just a destination — it’s an experience. Renting a car here transforms your trip into an adventure. Whether you're visiting famous landmarks or venturing into lesser-known corners, a car rental gives you the freedom to travel at your pace, on your terms.

If you’re flying into Transylvania, Cluj-Napoca is the best place to start. And if you want a reliable, local partner for your rental, we recommend Napoca Rent a Car – professional service, local expertise, and flexible solutions tailored for foreign tourists.

Plan smart, drive safe, and get ready to fall in love with Romania.