For Maltese travellers eager to escape the summer heat, Cluj-Napoca in Romania offers a refreshing, green alternative. This relaxed yet vibrant city is known for its rich cultural scene and easy access to some of Transylvania’s most beautiful countryside. Just beyond the city limits, you’ll find well-maintained roads that lead to rolling hills, forest trails, and peaceful mountain villages, making it an ideal starting point for a road trip.
Whether you're planning a quick getaway or a longer journey, Cluj is ideal for exploring Romania at your own pace. With a rental car, you can discover scenic drives, hidden gems, and authentic local experiences that go far beyond the usual tourist trail. From renting a car to discovering the best day trips and cultural highlights, here’s how to make the most of your adventure this summer!
Cluj-Napoca, often called Cluj, is Romania’s second-largest city and a lively centre for students, artists, and nature lovers. It combines historic architecture with a vibrant café culture and offers easy access to some of the country's most beautiful natural landscapes. For travellers from Malta accustomed to sun-drenched coasts, Cluj is a welcome change—think cooler temperatures, forested hills, scenic mountain views, and a laid-back, culturally rich atmosphere.
Getting there is easy. Direct flights from Malta to Cluj are frequently affordable, especially in summer, making it a convenient and appealing destination. In just a few hours, you can swap crowded beaches for fresh mountain air, green horizons, and the freedom of the open road!
Cluj-Napoca offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and laid-back city life—all within walking distance. Whether you're in the mood for culture, greenery, or a quiet viewpoint, the city has something to suit every pace. Here are some must-see highlights in and around the city centre:
For even more inspiration on what to explore in Cluj, check out Ten Must-See Sights Every First-Time Visitor to Cluj Will Love.
Once you have enjoyed the city, it is time to explore the countryside. The region surrounding Cluj is full of mountains, caves, traditional villages, and natural wonders. Here are some of the best day trips you can take by car.
About an hour and a half from Cluj, the village of Rîmetea is like stepping into a postcard. With its white-painted houses, green-shuttered windows, and dramatic mountain backdrop, it offers a serene escape from modern life. It is also one of the best-preserved traditional villages in Romania.
The village is quiet, welcoming, and full of character. Many guesthouses serve homemade meals using local ingredients. If you are interested in folk culture, craft shops are selling hand-embroidered clothes, wooden tools, and traditional decorations. The drive to Rîmetea is smooth and scenic, passing through wide valleys and rolling hills. This route is a must for travellers who want to connect with Romania’s rural charm.
Just an hour’s drive from Cluj, Cheile Turzii is a beautiful nature reserve known for its cliffs and narrow river gorge. The main trail through the gorge takes about two hours for a round trip and offers many scenic views that are perfect for photos. Several wooden bridges cross the river, and there are shaded areas along the way that are ideal for a short rest or a quiet picnic. The area is well-marked and suitable for families or beginners. If you want to extend your visit, there are nearby guesthouses where you can enjoy dinner and a night in the hills.
Two hours west of Cluj lies the Apuseni Mountain range, one of Romania’s best summer escapes. With cooler temperatures, dense forests, and slow village life, the area is perfect for a full-day trip or overnight stay. The roads are winding but in good condition, making it ideal for a relaxed drive.
One of the highlights of the Apuseni is Scărișoara Ice Cave. Even in July, the temperature inside remains near freezing. The cave is accessible with a guide and features one of the largest underground glaciers in Europe. Bring a jacket if you plan to visit. The region also offers waterfalls, forest paths, and traditional mountain lodges where you can enjoy local cheese, honey, and meat dishes.
A 90-minute drive from Cluj takes you to Alba Iulia, a city known for its grand star-shaped fortress. The Alba Carolina Citadel is one of the most important historical sites in Romania. Built in the 18th century, it features restored buildings, wide open spaces, and daily re-enactments of historical parades. You can walk or cycle along the fortress walls and explore the museums inside. The area is clean, well-organised, and full of information for curious travellers. If you enjoy architecture, history, or a peaceful walk, this is a worthy stop.
Less than an hour’s drive from Cluj, the Turda Salt Mine is one of Romania’s most unique attractions. This vast underground space has been turned into a public park, with a small lake, sports courts, and even a Ferris wheel deep below the surface.
The salt-saturated air is said to be good for breathing, making the mine both a fun and healthy destination. The interior is well-lit and has lifts for easy access, making it suitable for all ages. The mine stays cool year-round, offering a perfect escape from summer heat. Tickets are affordable, and guided tours are available in English.
If you want to experience the best of Cluj and the breathtaking Transylvanian countryside, renting a car is the way to go. Public transport can be sparse outside the city, but with your vehicle, you’re free to chase mountain views, stop in charming villages, and explore hidden gems at your own pace.
Finalrentals makes the whole process easy and stress-free, with great rates, full insurance, unlimited mileage, and 24/7 support. Booking online is quick, and you can pick up your car as soon as you land. Ready for the open road? Visit Finalrentals and start your adventure with comfort, confidence, and complete freedom!
Planning a road trip through Cluj and the surrounding Transylvanian countryside is exciting—and a little preparation goes a long way. From what to pack and how to get around to understanding local customs and choosing the right accommodation, here’s what you need to know before hitting the road:
Romania is a land of contrast and beauty—modern cities meet ancient traditions, and dense forests stretch beside small farms. For Maltese travellers, it is a refreshing and affordable alternative to typical European destinations. Cluj-Napoca stands out as a city that feels young yet peaceful, full of things to do while offering easy access to the countryside.
By choosing to rent a car in Romania, you unlock the freedom to go where buses cannot, to stop at scenic places others drive past, and to create a holiday truly your own. Whether it is the thrill of hiking through a gorge, the calm of a remote village, or the cool air of a mountain cave, your summer in Romania can be exactly what you want it to be. Start planning today, and see for yourself why more Maltese travellers are choosing Cluj for their next summer trip!
