Transportation in Romania: A Complete Guide for Tourists
Romania, with its diverse landscapes and fascinating attractions, is an unforgettable destination. To fully enjoy your experience, transportation plays a key role. Here’s a detailed overview of the transportation options available, whether you prefer public transport or private vehicles.
1. Renting Vehicles – Freedom to Explore
Romania offers a variety of options for those who want to explore the country at their own pace. Renting a vehicle allows you to access less-touristic areas and gives you the flexibility to create your own itinerary.
Car Rentals
Top international and local companies: Avis, Hertz, Sixt, Autonom, and Klass Wagen. They offer a wide range of vehicles, from economy cars to luxury SUVs.
Rental locations: Airports, major cities (Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Timișoara, Constanța), and even tourist resorts.
Approximate costs: Starting from $27/day for a standard vehicle, depending on the season and location.
Recommendation: Autonom Rent-a-Car – a trusted Romanian company known for excellent service.
Private Planes and Charters
For an exclusive tour or fast travel between cities, private plane rentals are an option. Companies like Fly Level offer tailored services.
Maritime Navigation
If you’re exploring the Danube Delta or the Black Sea coast, you can rent boats and yachts. Companies like Tomis Yachting Club in Constanța provide rentals and private tours.
2. Public Transportation – Convenient and Affordable
If you prefer to save money and experience Romania like a local, public transportation is an excellent choice.
Romanian Railways (CFR)
Extensive network: Connecting major cities, mountain resorts, and rural areas. InterRegio trains are faster and more comfortable than Regio ones.
Tickets and routes: Available on the CFR website.
Affordable prices: For example, a ticket from Bucharest to Brașov costs about $11.
Buses and Minibuses
Regional companies: Atlassib, FlixBus, and others connect large cities and more isolated villages.
Costs: Between $3-$16 depending on the distance.
Urban Transportation
Metro: Bucharest has a modern metro system that’s fast and efficient.
Buses and trams: Available in all major cities. Transportation cards can be purchased at station kiosks.
3. Taxis and Modern Alternatives
For short distances and added comfort, taxis and ride-sharing apps are ideal.
Taxis
Reliable companies: Speed Taxi, Clever Taxi, Meridian.
Fares: Usually range from $0.55-$0.85/mile. Avoid unofficial taxis to steer clear of potential issues.
Ride-Sharing Apps
Popular services: Uber, Bolt, FreeNow. These are safe and offer transparent pricing options.
Why Choose Private Transportation?
While public transport is affordable, renting a private vehicle or using taxi/ride-sharing services brings extra comfort, safety, and flexibility:
Access to remote areas: Like the villages of Maramureș or mountain trails in the Carpathians.
Increased safety: Rental vehicles are typically well-maintained, and ride-sharing apps include built-in security measures.
Personal comfort: Avoid crowds and travel at your preferred times.
To ensure a smooth and worry-free experience, we recommend planning your transportation ahead of time. No matter which option you choose, Romania will surprise you with its stunning landscapes and warm hospitality!