Although Romania is an extremely important connection between Central and Southern Europe, its road network still does not meet EU standards. There are weight limits for certain sections, and problems such as potholes, cracked concrete, traffic jams, and aggressive drivers persist. This leads to costly detours, especially for vehicles responsible for transporting goods, as they tend to exceed the permissible weight.
In addition to the road conditions, Romanian drivers exhibit a driving style that is quite different and much more unpredictable than what we are used to.
Since the condition of the Romanian roads is especially important for tourists and vacationers who want to enjoy their holiday without harm or stress, we have summarized the most important facts for you in this article.
General Overview of the Road Network
In Romania, there are five different types of roads:
- National Roads
- Expressways
- County Roads
- Municipal Roads
It is important to know that you need a vignette for highways and national roads. Like many other European countries, Romania charges tolls to fund the maintenance and expansion of the road infrastructure.
Vehicles subject to vignette fees:
- Cars
- Trucks
- Buses
- Motorhomes
Vehicles exempt from vignette fees:
The so-called “Rovinieta” can be purchased from us. The vignette, which is now only available digitally, is controlled by CNADNR, which belongs to the Ministry of Infrastructure and is specifically responsible for highways and national roads. (LINK)
In addition to highways and national roads, there are also some special tolls that must be paid at certain points.
- Danube Bridge: Ruse (BG) - Giurgiu (RO)
- Danube Bridge 2: Vidin (BG) - Calafat (RO)
- Bridge: Cernavodă (RO) - Fetești (RO)
- Bridge: Giurgeni (RO) - Vadu Oii (RO)
However, there is a desperate need for improvement in the transportation infrastructure to ensure that the journey from one place to another doesn’t feel like a roller coaster ride, as Romania has one of the worst transportation infrastructures in the European Union.
The Romanian Highway System
The Romanian highway network covers about 928 km (as of 2022) and includes the country’s most important traffic routes. The most important highway is the A1, which runs from the capital Bucharest through the country to the Ukrainian border. Highways in Romania are marked with a green sign, unlike in Germany. The sign displays the respective highway number. Compared to many other roads in the country, Romanian highways are well-developed, with clearly separated lanes and plenty of entry and exit ramps that prevent long detours in case of missed exits.
However, in European comparison, Romania still has one of the smallest highway networks. Only a little over 20 percent of the entire road network consists of highways and national roads, leading to frequent traffic jams.
Rural Roads
Rural roads in Romania can be considered mixed in quality. While some sections might impress you with the perfect condition of the concrete and asphalt, the next stretch may have potholes, bumps, or other flaws. Additionally, traffic can often be more chaotic than in Germany. You should definitely drive carefully and defensively. Motorcycle riders, in particular, should constantly keep an eye on the road and the vehicles around them. Some drivers disregard the rules and speed limits, so questionable overtaking maneuvers are not uncommon. Don’t be tempted to challenge others and let them pass, even if they’re overtaking on the wrong side.
On rural roads, animals on the road are not uncommon. So, you should exercise the same caution on less-traveled roads as on the more crowded ones.
If you stay alert, do not block traffic, and follow the traffic rules in Romania (LINK), you’ll stay safe on the road.
Urban Roads
Urban roads are in much better condition than rural ones. However, the standards differ from those in Germany. You may encounter animals on the road, or sudden potholes. Generally, though, urban roads are in good condition—definitely more reliable than rural roads.
Will the Romanian Road Network Continue to Expand?
After little progress in the expansion of roads in recent years, primarily due to a shortage of skilled labor, unclear responsibilities, and delayed building permits, there are now large plans for the coming years. Seven billion euros have been allocated for the period between 2021 and 2027. Additionally, several billion euros from the European Union will support this. 1,700 new kilometers of highways will be built to help the country’s economic recovery.
Special Roads
The Snake Road
The Transfăgărășan Highway, also known as DN7C, is a mountain road and the second-highest road in Romania. It is also called the "Snake Road" and is probably one of the most beautiful roads in the world. If you want to make sure you don’t miss a breathtaking view of the glacial lake, waterfalls, and Făgăraș Mountains, you should definitely visit this road. The road is about 90 km long and takes you through the Southern Carpathians.
The Transalpina
The Transalpina, also known as DN67C (Drum național 67C), is one of the highest roads in the Romanian Southern Carpathians. It is about 148 km long and located 2,145 meters above sea level. Driving this road is an extraordinary experience, and it is often referred to as the “Devil’s Pass” or the “King’s Road.” Along the magnificent and exciting parts of the road, you can not only enjoy stunning views of the Transylvanian mountains but also explore beautiful villages, taste local cuisine, and experience Romanian hospitality.
The Wine Road
The Wine Road between Ploiești and Buzău runs through vineyards as far as the eye can see. Along the road, you’ll find numerous wineries that are happy to inform you about the production processes, as well as the different varieties and characteristics of grapes, wine vines, and wines. The picturesque region of Dealu Mare is one of the most famous wine regions in Romania.
Conclusion
Despite the sometimes adventurous roads and reckless drivers, Romania is a fantastic choice for a road trip! The picturesque views and beautiful, authentic landscapes, especially along the serpentine roads, will make you forget about the uneven roads and stressful highway situations. If everything goes as planned, the road network will be rapidly expanded until 2027, soon matching the standards we know in Germany. A road trip through Romania is an adventure you should not be discouraged from by the road system!
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