Renting a car can be the best way for New Zealanders to discover this beautiful country’s hidden gems at their own pace. Whether you touch down in Cluj-Napoca or Bucharest, having a vehicle at your disposal means you can wander from medieval citadels to dramatic mountain passes without relying on crowded coaches or timetables. Before you book your ride, it pays to know the rules of the road, the paperwork you’ll need, and how to avoid those dreaded hidden fees. Read on for essential tips and prepare for an unforgettable adventure!
Start by sketching out your route and travel dates. Decide whether you’ll stay in the cities—perhaps discovering Bucharest’s grand boulevards and trendy cafés—or venture into Transylvania’s rolling hills, medieval towns, and forests. Many visitors hire for five to ten days, which gives them enough time to explore Cluj’s youthful vibe, drive the winding roads through the Carpathians, visit Sighişoara’s citadel, and end up in Bucharest for a final flourish.
Romanian law recognises valid New Zealand driving licences, so you won’t need complicated paperwork. The typical minimum age to hire is 21, though drivers under 25 may pay a “young driver” surcharge. Premium vehicles often require a minimum age of 25. An International Driving Permit (IDP) isn’t strictly mandatory, but it can help at the hire desk or if police stop you. You’ll also need at least one year’s driving experience, so double-check with your chosen supplier before booking to avoid last-minute issues.
Insurance can be confusing, but it’s an essential part of your rental car experience, offering peace of mind throughout your journey. Here’s a breakdown of the main insurance options you’ll encounter when renting a car in Romania:
Choosing the right vehicle can make your Romanian road trip much more enjoyable and hassle-free. The type of car you drive affects everything from how easily you can navigate city streets to how comfortable you are on mountain roads. Here’s what to keep in mind when selecting your rental vehicle:
Let your route and driving preferences guide your decision, and you’ll have a smoother, more enjoyable ride.
Booking with a trusted provider like Finalrentals helps you avoid extra fees and stay within budget. Reserve at least four weeks in advance for the best selection, and book directly to get clear terms without third-party markups. Pay close attention to the fuel policy—full-to-full is usually the fairest, ensuring you only pay for what you use. Check for possible relocation charges if you're planning a one-way journey, such as picking up in Cluj and returning the car to Bucharest. Always review the fine print for add-on costs, which can include airport surcharges, extra driver fees, GPS or child seat hire, and late return penalties.
To speed things up, fill out your driver profile, payment info, and any required forms online before arrival. At the desk, you’ll need to show your New Zealand driver’s licence, passport, credit card, and booking confirmation. Before driving off, walk around the car with the agent—check all doors, lights, tyres, bumpers, and the windscreen. Take photos of any damage and make sure it’s noted in your paperwork. This helps avoid disputes when returning the vehicle.
Romanian roads range from modern motorways to narrow rural lanes. Motorways (marked ‘A’, such as the A1 from Bucharest to Piteşti) are generally in good condition but require a road-toll vignette (rovinieta). You can buy vignettes online, at border shops, or at petrol stations; prices vary by duration. National roads (‘DN’) link main towns and are usually well maintained but may slow behind tractors or lorries. Local roads often narrow to a single lane, with potholes in places. Drive at a comfortable speed and use offline GPS maps if the phone signal is patchy.
Parking in Romanian urban centres can be tricky. “Blue Zones” require you to buy a ticket at a machine and display it on your dashboard. Private parking lots near city squares offer convenient options for parking, though they can be more expensive than street parking. Avoid parking on red-lined curbs, which indicate no parking, and yellow-lined curbs, which mean no stopping. Parking in Bucharest’s Old Town is limited, so it’s often more convenient to use a park-and-ride facility outside the centre and take public transport into the city. In Cluj, you’ll find street parking and underground car parks, but follow the signs carefully to avoid fines.
Plan your budget carefully for fuel and tolls. Petrol is usually more expensive than diesel, so consider this when budgeting for your trip. Motorway tolls are included with a vignette, which is provided with your rental. In city centres, parking is charged by the hour. While major fuel stations are open 24/7, rural ones may close early in the evening, and refuel before dusk to avoid searching for a pump after dark.
Local driving habits may surprise you. Horn-tooting in rural areas often signals an overtaking manoeuvre, not anger. Flashing headlights can warn oncoming drivers about speed cameras or police checks. At roundabouts, traffic inside the circle has the right of way; signal only when you intend to exit. Above all, stay calm in traffic—patience and courtesy go further than a heavy foot.
Safety should always be a priority when travelling. Here are some essential safety tips to keep in mind during your road trip in Romania:
Returning your vehicle should be smooth if you follow a few simple steps. Refill the tank to the agreed level, as rental firms charge inflated fuel rates if they need to refill for you. Remove all personal items and rubbish, then walk the perimeter with the agent, comparing any new marks against your pick-up photographs. Sign the paperwork only after confirming no incorrect damage is listed. Keep fuel, toll, and parking receipts until your credit card statement is settled.
A classic route from Cluj-Napoca to Bucharest spans roughly 450 km and can be savoured over four to five days. First, head 40 km south to Turda to explore the spectacular Turda Salt Mine. Next, drive 160 km to Sighişoara, one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval towns and the reputed birthplace of Vlad the Impaler. From there, continue 120 km to Braşov, nestled beneath the Carpathians, where cobbled streets and Bran Castle await. Finally, complete the 170 km run to Bucharest, ending in Romania’s lively capital with its leafy parks, grand palaces, and buzzing café culture. Spread the journey over several days to truly soak in each stop.
Renting a car in Romania need not be daunting for New Zealanders. With a valid licence, the right insurance, and an understanding of local rules, you can roam this captivating country at your own pace. From Cluj’s youthful streets to the medieval charm of Sighişoara, the dramatic scenery around Braşov, and the metropolitan flair of Bucharest, every kilometre brings a discovery. Rent a car today and set off to forge memories that will last a lifetime. Safe travels!
