I have recently returned from a wonderful driving holiday in Transylvania. Having prepared for the holiday, I read a lot about driving conditions and Romanian drivers. I have to say, that much of the negative reviews I read border on hysteria and exaggeration and we did not experience anything like the horrors that have been reported.
YES - you do see horse and carts on major highways.
YES - there are the occasional "suicide drivers" overtaking other cars on blind corners, but no more than in other European countries like Hungary, Croatia, Slovenia etc.
YES - some minor roads are in poor condition such as the road to Viscri Fortified Church.
BUT....
- The major highways and national roads are in good condition.
- It is easy to pass horse and carts.
- You simply slow down and enjoy the scenery on minor roads.
- You let the odd impatient or "crazy" driver pass you without problem and then continue at the your own pace.
- If you see a car on your side of the road at an inopportune time such as a blind corner, there is generally space for you to move to and time for you to slow down.
So I encourage anyone who is considering driving in Romania to do so. It allows you to see this amazing country and all the beauty that it has to offer. We also found that local agencies have the best rental rates. We used Oltea Rental Cars, who operate out of Targu Mures Airport and we were very pleased with the quality and service.
All the best,
Kate