What are the most spectacular roads in Romania?

Nestled in the heart of southeastern Europe, Romania is a tapestry of historic tales, diverse landscapes, and roads that promise to tantalize every traveler's senses. For those with a penchant for adrenaline and scenic vistas, the country unveils a treasure trove of driving experiences.

Leading the pack is the iconic Transfagarasan, a marvel of engineering that winds its way through the fabled territory of Dracula. Cutting through the rugged Carpathian Mountains, this road doesn't just offer hairpin bends and challenging curves, but also weaves a tale of myth and legend.

Then there's the Transalpina, or DN67C, often lauded as the "King's Road". Situated at dizzying altitudes, this highway introduces one to Romania's alpine beauty in its purest form. As you navigate its pathways, prepare for a sensory feast, with the Carpathian landscapes unfolding in a grand display of nature's artistry.

TransBucegi, another jewel in Romania's crown of roads, meanders through picturesque terrains, making it a delightful drive for those keen to immerse in the nation's natural splendors. And for those looking for a dance of nature and drama, the Bicaz Gorge awaits with its steep cliffs and verdant landscapes.

In Romania, each road is more than just a route—it's a journey into the heart of a nation rich in history and beauty. As you drive through, let the winds carry tales of old, and let every turn reveal a new chapter of Romania's grand narrative.

Nedeia is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 2.085m (6,840ft) above the sea level, located on the border of Vâlcea County and Gorj County, in Romania. It’s one of the highest roads of the country.

Located on the boundary of Argeș and Sibiu counties of Romania, at 884m long the Capra-Balea Lac is said to be the longest tunnel of the country.

Jepii de Sus is a high mountain peak at an elevation of 2.164m (7,099ft) above the sea level, located in Argeș County, Romania. It’s one of the highest roads of the country.

Cabana Dichiu is a high mountain cabin at an elevation of 1.603m (5,259ft) above the sea level, located in Dâmbovița County, Romania. 

Frătoșteanu Mare is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 1.914m (6,279ft) above the sea level, located in Vâlcea County, in Romania. It’s one of the highest roads of the country.

Zărneştilor Gorges is a 4 km long canyon with high walls up to 200 m, located in Brașov County, Transylvania, Romania.

Jepii de Jos is a high mountain peak at an elevation of 1.847m (6,059ft) above the sea level, located in Argeș County, Romania. It’s one of the highest roads of the country.

Petrimanu is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 1.943m (6,374ft) above the sea level, located in Vâlcea County, Romania. It’s one of the highest roads of the country.

Preotesele is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 1.998m (6,555ft) above the sea level, located in the Argeș County, Muntenia, in Romania. It’s one of the highest roads of the country.

DC116B is a scenic mountain road located in Bacău County, Romania.

Florea is a high mountain peak at an elevation of 1.931m (6,335ft) above the sea level, located in Argeș County, Romania. It’s one of the highest roads of the country.

Pasul Tărtărău is a high mountain pass at an elevation of 1.718m (5,636ft) above the sea level, located on the boundary of Alba, Vâlcea and Sibiu counties. It’s the highest paved road in Romania.

Romania boasts some of the most dramatic and dangerous scenic drives in Europe. The mountainous terrain and indifferent attitude to maintenance add up to experiences that are not for the faint hearted. For a short, sharp adrenaline buzz, Cheile Gradistei, near the resort town of Bran, is hard to beat.

Rarau Peak is a high mountain peak at an elevation of 1.633m (5,357ft) above the sea level, located in Suceava County, in the southern portion of the historical region of Bukovina in Romania.

Defileul Oltului is a canyon carved by the river Olt located in Vâlcea County, in Romania.

Bratocea Pass (Pasul Bratocea) is a mountain pass at an elevation of 1.272m (4,173ft) above the sea level, located on the boundary of Prahova and Brașov counties in Romania.

Munții Ciucului is a high mountain peak at an elevation of 1.361m (4,465ft) above the sea level, located in Harghita County, in eastern Transylvania, Romania.