Self-Drive Off-Road in Romania's Carpathian Mountains - 8 Days

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Welcome to Bucharest
1 stop
1
Bucharest
Arrive in Bucharest, where your 4x4 SUV will be waiting for you at the airport. Drive to your hotel and, if time allows, begin exploring the city. Discover grand palaces, stroll through the vibrant streets of the Old Town, unwind in lush parks, and enjoy traditional Romanian cuisine — all infused with the city’s rich history and dynamic culture. Recommended highlights include the Palace of the Parliament, the Old Town (Lipscani District), Calea Victoriei, the Village Museum (Muzeul Satului), and Herăstrău Park (King Michael I Park).
10 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 2
Climbing into the Carpathians, Bucegi Ridge, Lake Bolboci, Sinaia Area
1 stop
2
Bucegi Mountains
Depart Bucharest and head north into the Carpathian Mountains, ascending through the scenic Prahova Valley and its picturesque villages. The journey takes you deep into the heart of the Bucegi Mountains, where forest landscapes, mountain roads, and hidden natural wonders await. Enjoy an off-road drive along the Bucegi Ridge, leading to the peaceful shores of Lake Bolboci, a stunning alpine lake surrounded by tranquility. Take a walk into a karst cave, tucked behind a remote mountain monastery, where a stream flows quietly through its chambers — a hidden gem of nature and mysticism. Continue your off-road adventure through traditional Roma (Gypsy) villages, past Lake Bolboci, and stop at a rustic cabin nearby that offers a lovely local restaurant — perfect for a warm lunch, or opt for a picnic near the dam with views of the lake.
10 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 3
Into the Heart of Transylvania
1 stop
3
Alba Iulia
Enjoy a full day of authentic encounters as you travel through the forested hills of Transylvania, passing traditional villages, open fields, sheep-filled pastures, and winding streams. Stop at a working flour mill, still powered by a flowing stream, for a glimpse into timeless rural craft. In a charming Saxon village, visit a fortified medieval church, meet local artisans, and savor a homemade lunch in a peaceful courtyard. In the afternoon, set off on an off-road journey from Cinco to Alba Iulia, crossing vast open landscapes on your way to Alba Iulia, a historic city at the foot of the Apuseni Mountains, where centuries of Romanian heritage meet.
10 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 4
Experiences on the Edge of the Apuseni Ridge
1 stop
4
Begin the day in the Turda region, discovering natural wonders and local flavors. Descend into the surreal Turda Salt Mine, an underground world of vast chambers, salt formations, and a tiny subterranean lake. Then hike through the dramatic Turda Gorge, a limestone canyon with towering cliffs, wooden bridges, and soaring birds of prey. Stop at the Winery in the Rock for a tasting inside its cave-like cellar, known for crisp local whites. Arrive in Alba Iulia by evening and enjoy a relaxed stroll through its atmospheric old town, with centuries-old fortifications, elegant squares, and rich historical charm.
10 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 5
Plenty of Off-Road Adventure! Ascent to the Apuseni Ridge
1 stop
5
Begin your day ascending through dense forest, winding upward beneath a vibrant green canopy. As you climb, the trees give way to breathtaking panoramas of rolling hills and lush valleys stretching endlessly to the horizon. Continue along the ridge, passing remote mountain villages with charming straw-roofed houses where time feels frozen. This immersive off-road adventure takes you deep into the heart of the Apuseni Mountains, traversing rugged terrain amid dramatic rocky slopes and exploring hidden valleys dotted with isolated hamlets. Experience one of Romania’s most captivating and untouched regions, where nature, tradition, and solitude prevail.
10 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 6
Apuseni Ridge Full of Life!
1 stop
6
Spend the day immersed in natural beauty and timeless traditions of the Apuseni Mountains. Begin with an off-road ascent to the Bihor Ridge, where sweeping 360-degree views from the top of Mount Bihor reveal a stunning panorama of peaks and valleys. Follow a scenic trail to the Ice Cave, a hidden wonder filled with year-round ice formations—a cool contrast to the warm mountain air. Continue to a countryside woodcraft workshop, where a local artisan carves furniture by hand, echoing the region’s deep-rooted traditions. Share a home-cooked lunch with a village family, including a hands-on chance to make palacinka (traditional pancakes). Conclude with a peaceful hike to a cascading waterfall, surrounded by the pure, untouched beauty of the Apuseni.
10 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 7
The impressive Best Castle, The Bridge of Liars...
1 stop
7
Sibiu
On the way back into the valley, visit an ancient gold mine and the fascinating Gold Museum, then cross to the other side to explore Romania’s most impressive castle. Enjoy a surprising off-road drive to Lake Jamuna, home to a village submerged beneath its waters—a hidden gem worth discovering. Next, explore Honodowara Castle, where exhibition rooms showcase fortifications, weapons, torture devices, and live music illustrating the life of Hungarian princes who once ruled the region. Finally, return to Sibiu’s old city for a stroll through its colorful squares, cross the famous Liars’ Bridge, and admire the pointed-roofed churches before parking the jeep for a relaxed walk around town.
10 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 8
Transfăgărășan – The Famous Mountain Pass, Bucharest
1 stop
8
Transfagarasan Highway
Climb the Transfăgărășan Pass, one of the world’s most famous roads, known for its dramatic twists and breathtaking views toward Transylvania. At the top, enjoy a walk along the shore of Bălău Lake—“the beautiful lake”—an alpine gem perfect for a scenic lookout and a warm drink. Descend through the Wallachian plains and return to Bucharest via highway, where you return your SUV 4X4. End of trip
10 hours • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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