Once known for little more than cheap and cheerful stag do’s, Romania is fast becoming a popular destination for a very different style of holiday. Thousands flock here every year for its soul-stirring landscapes, traditional villages and brightly-hued medieval cities. Planning a trip to this captivating country? Take a look at our top tips on how to travel around Romania.
How to travel around Romania
1. Taking the train in Romania
Romania boasts an extensive network, run by SNCFR ( Societatea Naţională a Căilor Ferate Române). As well as connecting major cities, the network winds through exceptionally scenic routes, particularly in Transylvania.
There are currently two types of train. InterRiog (IR) trains tend to call at major towns. They’re faster, more comfortable and, generally speaking, more expensive. The Regio (RI) trains stop everywhere.
Prices are calculated based on distance, so an IR train journey of 100km will set you back around €7 in second-class and €10 in first-class. If you’re making a long journey and travelling overnight, you might be able to travel in a sleeper carriage. These tend to be surprisingly affordable too.
2. Taking the bus in Romania
Taking a bus in Romania is no mean feat. Unlike most countries, there is no state buswork, instead an array of private companies coordinate the services. Most towns have a handful of bus stops but finding the right place to wait in the countryside can be next to impossible.
3. Taking the tram and in Romania
Most major cities in Romania have a tram network and Bucharest has its own metro service. There are four lines on the route, though a fifth line has been in the works or a few years. They’re modern, cheap, reliable and quick. The metro runs from 05:00 until 23:00. Trams tend to run at more infrequent intervals.
4. Cycling in Romania
Cycling in Romania is often one of the quickest ways to travel – if you’re fit enough. Its mountainous terrain can make travelling between smaller villages quite a mission, but more enjoyable if you’ve got a good bicycle. Keen mountain bikers can get off-road on one of many forestry roads and open hilltops.
5. Driving in Romania
Driving outside of the main cities is a genuinely enjoyable experience in Romania. There’s little traffic and roads often rank as some of the most scenic in the world. That said, conditions on the smaller roads are hazardous and Romania has one of the highest traffic fatality rates in the world. It’s best to avoid driving after dark too.
You can bring your own vehicle in the country, though you’ll need to pay a road toll which costs around €7 for a month. Renting a car is easier, providing you’re 21 or older and hold a valid international driving license. For the best rates, check out these deals on car rentals in Romania.
6. River cruising Romania
One of the most popular ways to explore Romania is along the mighty Danube River, historically described as “The King of the European Rivers”. Visitors can pick up the cruise at the Iron Gates and travel 670 miles across the country to the Black Sea. One of the most spectacular sights along the way is the Danube Delta, a 2,100 sq. mile wildlife reserve protecting more than 300 species of bird and 160 species of fish. It’s also a good way to see the ruins of the Roman Bridge at Drobeta, the cities of Giurgiu and Ruse, and the Topolnita Cave. There are dozens of tour operators operating scenic cruises throughout the year, from Viking River Cruises to Blue Danube Holidays.
7. Hitchhiking in Romania
Hitchhiking is extremely popular in Romania. If you’re in the right spot, you shouldn’t need to wait for longer than five minutes though the roads do tend to be emptier at the weekends. Locals tend to hitchhike shorter distances, though many students will hitchhike between cities. Bus stations and spots close to the city limits are usually the best places to find a ride. You should make sure you’ve got some small change as it’s accepted practice to pay the equivalent of a bus fare for your lift.
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