🚐 Vanpire Trip Throught Romania
Okay, I’ll be honest—Romania is totally off grid. I thought I was in for a quiet road trip… and ended up in one of the most wild, beautiful, and underrated countries in Europe. Huge forests, winding rivers, villages that feel like movie sets, and people who’ll hand you homemade plum brandy before you even say “bună ziua!”
🏔 Transalpina – “Are We Even Still on Earth?”
This road is seriously next level. It’s the highest road in Romania and makes you feel like you’re driving on top of the world. Endless twists and turns, jaw-dropping views, and barely any cars—just sheep, cows, bikers and other confused-looking vans. I pulled over constantly just to stare at the mountains (and to let the van cool down a little). Wild camping here? 10/10 would do again.
Pro Tip: Plan the route during the week days. Weekends can get busy with local’s and tourists – especially on holidays time.
🛣 Transfăgărășan – This Road Is on Another Dimension
If Transalpina is wild, Transfăgărășan is on another planet. This road doesn’t just take you through the mountains—it throws you right into the heart of the wild. Sharp curves, dramatic cliffs, alpine tunnels, and scenery that makes you forget you’re still in Europe.
And yes—bears. Plural. There are plenty of wild spots along the way where you can safely (and respectfully) spot brown bears in their natural habitat. I saw a few just chilling by the roadside, totally unbothered by the passing vans. It’s like a wildlife documentary with better snacks.
Pro Tip: Take it during week days. On my way on Friday some Porsche lovers rented out the route for 3 hours to take some epic shots. You know Porsche Lovers …
And it felt easier to climb on my van than Transalpina….
🌿 Danube Delta – Totally Worth the Ride to the Black Sea
I took the long drive all the way down to the Black Sea—and honestly, so worth it. The Danube Delta is like endless canals winding through wetlands, floating villages, and nature everywhere you look. Pretty sure it’s one of the biggest river deltas in the world—and it definitely feels like it.
There are loads of amazing camping spots, some right by the water, with peaceful views and proper wild vibes. I saw birds literally everywhere—from tiny ones darting over the reeds to massive eagles soaring overhead like they owned the place.
I took a sunset boat trip (highly recommend), which was equal parts magical and mosquito buffet. Those bastards bite hard ! Bring bug spray. But also bring binoculars if you are a bird nerds and nature lover. Otherwise just sit and enjoy 3 hours ride…
🏰 Transylvania – “Not Just Vampires and Castles”
No vampire clichés here—just a region full of medieval towns, green hills, and charming villages where time slows down. Places like Sibiu, Brașov, and Sighișoara are rich in history and architecture. But the real magic? Driving between them through quiet country roads, finding free camping spots in the middle of nowhere, and being invited by locals for plum brandy. It’s the soul of Romania.
A con … Bran Castle because—well, Dracula, right? It felt more like a gift shop glued to a tower. It looks amazing from the outside, but inside it’s pretty packed, polished, and priced for tourists. If you’re into vampire fridge magnets, you’ll be in heaven.
But the real Dracula vibes? I found them far from the crowds, in the quiet villages of Transylvania. Foggy mornings, crooked wooden houses, deep forests that look like they whisper secrets at night… That’s where things get deliciously eerie. No flashing cameras or ticket booths—just moody silence, maybe a barking dog, and a definite sense that something is watching you from the trees.
💭 Final Thoughts
Romania is doomed for campervan success. It’s got epic roads, wild places to sleep, delicious food, and people very welcoming. I came for the scenery and stayed for the adventure (and the cheese… and the pastries… and the mysterious roadside schnapps).
If you’re into freedom, forests, and slightly chaotic roads—get Romania on your van life list. You won’t regret it.
