Driving in Romania might seem overwhelming at first. With some preparation and local knowledge, Spanish tourists will soon realise that exploring Cluj-Napoca and Bucharest is enjoyable and stress-free. Everything you need to know, from essential documents and parking tips to scenic routes and emergency advice, is laid out clearly. Plus, you'll find all the details on renting a car in Romania with Finalrentals, ensuring a smooth and convenient journey.
Before you hit the road, gather all the essentials. Your Spanish driving licence is valid across the EU, but having an International Driving Permit (IDP) can help smooth interactions with local police and rental agencies. Pack your passport and a credit card in your name for any security deposits.
Staying connected is essential—either purchase a local SIM card or activate roaming. Also, download offline maps to avoid getting lost if you lose signal. Create a flexible itinerary that blends the historic sites of Cluj, such as St Michael’s Church and Union Square, with the wide boulevards and lush parks of Bucharest. Leave room for spontaneous detours to vineyards near Dealu Mare or village fairs in Maramureş.
When packing, keep the seasonal weather in mind. Spring and autumn can bring rain showers that make secondary roads slippery, while the summer heat might put extra strain on your car’s cooling system. Pack a toolkit, spare tyre, and coolant. Finally, familiarise yourself with the local currency (lei) and typical fuel prices to avoid surprises when filling up at the pump.
When you collect your rental car, place these documents in the glovebox: the vehicle registration (or rental agreement), proof of insurance meeting EU‑mandated third‑party liability, your Spanish driving licence and IDP, plus photocopies or smartphone photos of each. Although EU licences are legally accepted, some local officers still request an IDP to interpret categories. Review insurance options carefully: Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) limits your out‑of‑pocket cost after an incident, Theft Protection guards against vandalism or car‑jacking losses, and Full Insurance combines both for maximum peace of mind.
Also keep emergency contact numbers—your rental company’s 24/7 hotline, local breakdown services, and Romania’s European‑standard emergency number (112). A printed list is better than relying solely on your phone. Invoices for fuel or toll purchases should go into the glovebox, simplifying reimbursement or record‑keeping.
Driving in Romania requires an understanding of some essential road rules and etiquette to ensure a smooth and safe journey. While navigating the streets of Cluj and Bucharest, it's important to keep these guidelines in mind:
Romanian speed limits follow a consistent pattern, and it's crucial to be aware of them to avoid fines and stay safe on the road:
Enforcement is strict, with fixed cameras, mobile patrols, and fines that should be paid promptly. Road signs follow European symbols: a blue circle indicates a mandatory instruction (e.g., minimum speed or tyre chains), while a red triangle warns of hazards such as sharp bends, animal crossings, or tram tracks. Temporary orange signs mark roadworks, frequent on the A1 motorway in spring and autumn.
Pavement markings are also crucial to recognise, with broken white lines indicating overtaking zones and solid lines marking areas where passing is prohibited. Yellow kerb stripes show no parking areas, especially near schools or hospitals. Familiarity with these visual cues will help ensure your safety and avoid legal issues.
Cluj‑Napoca’s mix of medieval charm and modern city life makes it an enjoyable place to drive—once you understand how the city works. The city centre has narrow, cobbled one-way streets, especially around the Matthias Corvinus statue, so follow pavement arrows and GPS directions closely. Tramlines cut across key boulevards; crossing them at the wrong angle can jolt your wheels. Traffic is heaviest between 08:00–10:00 and 16:00–19:00, so stay alert and drive defensively, watching for sudden lane changes from local drivers.
Parking in Cluj can be tricky if you're unfamiliar with the local system. The Blue Zone, which includes areas like Piaţa Unirii, requires a paid ticket that must be clearly displayed; these can be purchased at local kiosks. The Green Zone in outer areas like Mărăști and Grigorescu is free, though some spaces have time restrictions posted on signs. For peace of mind, consider private parking lots near major landmarks.
Bucharest’s reputation for chaotic traffic has softened in recent years thanks to new ring roads and improved signage. The Centura (ring road) allows you to skirt the city’s congested core, linking the A1, A2, and A3 motorways without entering the centre. Within Bucharest, stay in right‑hand lanes unless overtaking, and expect stop‑start flow on main arteries like Magheru Boulevard and Calea Victoriei.
Parking zones in Bucharest use a three‑colour system: Red for the central business district, Yellow for mid‑town, and Green for outer neighbourhoods. Payment is by SMS or at street machines; always note the zone code on the signpost. Private garages near the Parliament Palace and Old Town often offer daily rates below on‑street maximums.
Most fuel stations on Romania’s motorways accept credit cards at the pump, though in rural areas, you might need to pay inside. To avoid running low, refill when your tank is half full—some roads can stretch over 80 km without any petrol stations. A toll is required to drive on national roads in Romania. Rental cars typically include the toll, but it's crucial to verify before you begin your trip. Authorities check electronically for compliance, and failing to cover the toll could result in a hefty fine.
While main motorways (A1, A2, A3) are modern and well‑lit, secondary roads often bear potholes, eroded shoulders, and limited signage. In the Carpathian foothills, watch for sudden changes in grade and sharp hairpin bends, particularly on DN1 between Braşov and Sinaia. Spring thaw can undermine pavement foundations, creating hidden dips.
Livestock and wildlife, particularly deer, may cross the roads at dawn or dusk. Large farm vehicles can move slowly on rural roads, so only overtake when you have clear visibility and no oncoming traffic. Roadworks can appear suddenly, with orange cones and temporary signs as the only warning. Adopting a cautious and proactive driving approach helps reduce risks.
Carry a warning triangle, a high‑visibility vest, and a basic first‑aid kit in your car. If you break down, pull fully onto the hard shoulder, switch on hazard lights, and place the triangle at least 50 metres behind your vehicle. Contact your rental company’s 24/7 helpline immediately. For accidents, dial Europe’s emergency number—112—for police or medical assistance. Take photos of any vehicle damage, the road conditions, and relevant signs. Under Romanian law, even minor collisions require a police report; wait for officers to arrive before moving your car.
Romanian drivers can seem assertive, but courtesy remains common. A flash of headlights often means “after you,” not aggression. Use your horn only to warn of immediate danger. Always signal lane changes at least 100 metres in advance. At roundabouts, yield to vehicles approaching from the left and signal clearly before you exit. A friendly wave or nod acknowledges local drivers’ courtesy in return.
Renting a car with Finalrentals ensures a smooth and hassle-free experience in Romania. With transparent pricing, no hidden fees, and free cancellation up to 24 hours before pick-up, you can enjoy peace of mind throughout your trip. Choose from various vehicles, from compact cars to spacious family estates and rugged SUVs, perfect for navigating Romania’s diverse landscapes.
You’ll also benefit from unlimited mileage and optional extras like GPS units, child seats, and additional drivers to tailor your journey. Each vehicle is regularly serviced and thoroughly cleaned, ensuring reliability and comfort on your travels. Booking is quick and easy, with instant confirmation to plan your road trip without delay.
Driving in Cluj‑Napoca and Bucharest opens Romania’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty to Spanish tourists. By preparing essential documents, understanding local rules, anticipating hazards, and choosing the right vehicle through Finalrentals, you can transform your trip from a standard holiday into a personalised adventure. Embrace the freedom of the open road and discover the capital’s vibrant energy. Safe travels and happy driving!
