The Winding Wonders of Transfagarasan Highway

Discover the Transfagarasan Highway: A Scenic Drive through Romania's Carpathian Mountains, Offering Thrilling Twists and Stunning Natural Beauty.

Home
Romania
Transfagarasan Highway

The Transfagarasan Highway is a must-see in Romania, winding through the Fagaras Mountains in the Carpathians. Known for its dramatic twists and turns, the highway offers a thrilling drive with breathtaking landscapes. You'll find yourself surrounded by dense forests, serene lakes, and majestic peaks as you navigate this iconic route. Constructed in the 1970s, the Transfagarasan Highway stretches over 90 kilometers and connects the regions of Wallachia and Transylvania. It is often referred to as the 'Road to the Sky' due to its altitude and the otherworldly views it provides. The highway's highest point reaches 2,042 meters at the Balea Lake, a glacial wonder that is a popular stop for travelers. Along the way, you'll encounter several points of interest. The Vidraru Dam, one of the largest in Europe, is an engineering marvel worth a stop. The Poenari Fortress, perched atop a cliff, offers a glimpse into Romania's medieval past and a connection to the legendary Vlad the Impaler. Don't miss the Balea Waterfall, where cascading waters create a spectacular natural display. The Transfagarasan Highway is best traveled during the summer months when the road is fully open and accessible. Winter conditions can make the route challenging, with sections often closed due to heavy snowfall. For the best experience, plan your visit between June and October when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most vibrant.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Transfagarasan Highway.

Visit between June and October when the highway is open and the weather is favorable.
Stop at Balea Lake for incredible views and a chance to hike nearby trails.
Bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife along the route.
Check road conditions before your trip, as weather can impact accessibility.
Explore Poenari Fortress for a dose of history and panoramic views.

File:Wide view over the northern Transfagarasan.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Romania Transfagarasan.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Transfagarasan Road, Romania - panoramio.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Transfagarasan.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:PALTINU mountain Chalet, Balea Lac, Fagaras - Cabana PALTINU, Balea Lac, Fagaras - panoramio.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:RO B Transfagarasan view towards the north from Balea Lake 1.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Lacul Balea.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Transfagarasan road with Bilea Lake.jpg - Wikipedia

File:ROM Cartisoara Balea Lac 14.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Cascada Balea 2008 (1).jpg - Wikimedia Commons

Explore the best of what Transfagarasan Highway has to offer

When is the best time to go to Transfagarasan Highway?

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Cascada Bâlea

Discover the enchanting Bâlea Waterfall in the Făgăraș Mountains, a natural marvel perfect for photography, hiking, and enjoying Romania's stunning landscapes.

Capra Waterfall

Discover the breathtaking Capra Waterfall in Arefu, Romania, a stunning natural attraction perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Vedere Panoramică Transfăgărășan

Experience breathtaking views at Vedere Panoramică Transfăgărășan, the ultimate observation deck in the Carpathian Mountains.

Cascada mică Capra

Explore the breathtaking Cascada Mică Capra, a stunning waterfall in Romania's Transfăgărășan region surrounded by natural beauty and adventure.

Start Fereastra Zmeilor

Explore the breathtaking beauty of Start Fereastra Zmeilor on the Transfăgărășan highway, a hiker's paradise with stunning mountain views and diverse trails.

Transfăgărășan tunel

Explore the Transfăgărășan Tunnel, a stunning architectural marvel in Romania that promises breathtaking views and unforgettable adventures in the Carpathian Mountains.

Transfăgărășan

Explore Transfăgărășan, Romania's breathtaking mountain road, where stunning landscapes and exhilarating drives converge for an unforgettable adventure.

Cascada Transfăgărășan

Discover the enchanting Cascada Transfăgărășan, a breathtaking waterfall nestled in the Făgăraș Mountains, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Romania.

Meteorological Station Balea Lac

Explore Balea Lac Meteorological Station, where the breathtaking Făgăraș Mountains meet stunning alpine beauty and adventure awaits.

Magarusii prietenosi de pe Transfagarasan

Experience the charm of the Friendly Donkeys on Transfagarasan, a delightful stop on your scenic Romanian journey with breathtaking views and heartwarming encounters.

Tiroliana Balea Lac

Experience the thrill of zip-lining over stunning alpine landscapes at Tiroliana Balea Lac, a premier tourist attraction in Romania’s Făgăraș Mountains.

Transfagrasan Arges

Explore the breathtaking Transfăgărășan Highway and the stunning Capra Waterfall, a natural wonder in the heart of Romania's Carpathian Mountains.

Unmissable attractions to see

Transfagarasan

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Transfagarasan, a stunning mountain road offering adventure, scenic views, and rich Romanian culture.

Transfăgărășan tunel

Experience the stunning Transfăgărășan Tunnel, a breathtaking blend of nature and engineering in Romania's Carpathian Mountains.

Fereastra Zmeilor

Explore the enchanting Fereastra Zmeilor, a hiker's haven in Romania's Carpathian Mountains, rich in beauty, folklore, and adventure.

Parcul din Lemn

Explore Parcul din Lemn: A natural wonder in the Carpathians, offering scenic hikes, rock climbing, and family-friendly amusement park fun.

Fântâna lui George

Discover the serene beauty of Fântâna lui George, a picturesque oasis along Romania's breathtaking Transfăgărășan highway, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.

Acul Revolver

Experience the breathtaking beauty and unique geological wonders of Acul Revolver, a must-visit tourist attraction in Romania.

Valea Paltinu

Explore Valea Paltinu, a breathtaking valley in Romania, where serene landscapes and outdoor adventures await every traveler.

Pe la Lanțuri

Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich heritage of Pe la Lanțuri, a hidden gem in the heart of Romania's Carpathian Mountains.

Essential places to dine

Transfagarasan

Explore the breathtaking Transfagarasan highway - a stunning mountain road filled with natural beauty and rich Romanian heritage.

Cascada Bâlea

Explore Cascada Bâlea: A breathtaking waterfall surrounded by stunning Carpathian landscapes - a must-visit for nature lovers.

Cabana Bâlea Lac

Discover tranquility at Cabana Bâlea Lac - a serene bed & breakfast amidst breathtaking Transfăgărășan mountains with traditional Romanian cuisine.

Chalet Bear Manor

Experience the beauty of Romania at Chalet Bear Manor - a serene guest house offering traditional hospitality amidst breathtaking mountain views.

Hotel Piscul Negru

Discover authentic Romanian flavors at Hotel Piscul Negru while surrounded by stunning mountain vistas along Transfăgărășan.

Complex Bâlea

Experience authentic Romanian cuisine amidst breathtaking mountain views at Complex Bâlea – your ultimate escape in Transfăgărășan.

Cabana Paltinu

Experience authentic Romanian cuisine at Cabana Paltinu, set against the stunning backdrop of Bâlea Lac in Transfăgărășan.

Gheretă

Experience authentic Romanian cuisine at Gheretă along the picturesque Transfăgărășan – where every bite tells a story amidst breathtaking landscapes.

Balea Lac Restaurant

Experience authentic Romanian cuisine with stunning mountain views at Bâlea Lac Restaurant on the iconic Transfăgărășan road.

Fast food Transfagarasan

Experience quick bites amidst breathtaking views on Romania's iconic Transfăgărășan highway.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Cascada Bâlea

Explore the breathtaking Cascada Bâlea, a stunning waterfall nestled in the Transfăgărășan mountains, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Capra Waterfall

Experience the awe-inspiring natural beauty of Capra Waterfall in Arefu, Romania, a stunning destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Popas cu bunătăți

Experience authentic Romanian cuisine at Popas cu bunătăți along the stunning Transfăgărășan, where nature and flavors meet.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Chalet Bear Manor

Discover the serene beauty of Chalet Bear Manor, a charming guest house on the iconic Transfăgărășan road, surrounded by majestic mountains and rich wildlife.

Hotel Piscul Negru

Discover the unique blend of dining and leisure at Hotel Piscul Negru, your perfect mountain retreat along Romania's Transfăgărășan highway.

Complex Bâlea

Discover the stunning views and exquisite dining at Complex Bâlea, your perfect getaway in the heart of Transfăgărășan.

Cabana Paltinu

Experience the breathtaking views of Bâlea Lake while enjoying authentic Romanian cuisine at Cabana Paltinu, a gem on the Transfăgărășan.

Gheretă

Experience authentic Romanian cuisine at Gheretă, a culinary haven nestled in the breathtaking Transfăgărășan region, perfect for food lovers and travelers.

Fast food Transfagarasan

Discover the convenience of Fast Food Transfagarasan, where quick meals meet the stunning vistas of Romania's breathtaking landscape.

Terasa

Experience the breathtaking views at Terasa Observation Deck on Transfăgărășan, where nature meets spectacular vistas in Romania's mountains.

andreisorinnn pe insta

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Bâlea Lac, a glacial lake nestled in the heart of Romania's Făgăraș Mountains, perfect for adventure and relaxation.

With Eve

Local Phrases about Transfagarasan Highway

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Transfagarasan Highway. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloSalut
  [sah-loot]
- GoodbyeLa revedere
  [lah re-ve-de-re]
- YesDa
  [dah]
- NoNu
  [noo]
- Please/You're welcomeTe rog
  [teh rohg]
- Thank youMulțumesc
  [mool-tsoo-mesk]
- Excuse me/SorryScuzați-mă
  [skoo-za-tsi mah]
- How are you?Ce mai faci?
  [cheh my fahch?]
- Fine. And you?Bine. Și tu?
  [bee-neh. shee too?]
- Do you speak English?Vorbiți engleză?
  [vor-beetsee en-glez-uh?]
- I don't understandNu înțeleg
  [noo in-tseh-leg]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAș dori să văd meniul, vă rog
  [ush doh-ree suh vuhd meh-nyool, vuh rohg]
- I don't eat meatNu mănânc carne
  [noo muh-nuhnk cahr-neh]
- Cheers!Noroc!
  [no-rok]
- I would like to pay, pleaseAș dori să plătesc, vă rog
  [ush doh-ree suh pluh-tesk, vuh rohg]
- Help!Ajutor!
  [ah-yoo-tor]
- Go away!Du-te!
  [doo-teh]
- Call the Police!Sunați poliția!
  [soo-nahts po-lee-tsia]
- Call a doctor!Sunați un doctor!
  [soo-nahts oon dohk-tor]
- I'm lostM-am rătăcit
  [mahm ruh-tuh-cheet]
- I'm illSunt bolnav
  [soont bohl-nav]
- I'd like to buy...Aș dori să cumpăr...
  [ush doh-ree suh koom-puhr]
- I'm just lookingDoar mă uit
  [doh-ahr muh ooyt]
- How much is it?Cât costă?
  [kuht koh-stuh?]
- That's too expensiveEste prea scump
  [eh-steh preh-ah skoomp]
- Can you lower the price?Puteți să scădeți prețul?
  [poo-tehtsuh suh skuh-dehts prehtsool?]
- What time is it?Cât este ceasul?
  [kuht yeh-steh chah-sool]
- It's one o'clockEste ora unu
  [eh-steh oh-rah oo-noo]
- Half past (10)Zece și jumătate
  [zeh-cheh shee joo-muh-tah-teh]
- MorningDimineața
  [dee-mee-nyah-tsah]
- AfternoonDupă-amiază
  [doo-puh ah-mee-ah-zah]
- EveningSeara
  [seh-ah-rah]
- YesterdayIeri
  [yeh-ree]
- TodayAstăzi
  [ah-stuhz]
- TomorrowMâine
  [muh-yeh-neh]
- 1Unu
  [oo-noo]
- 2Doi
  [doy]
- 3Treisprezece
  [treh-ees-preh-zeht-cheh]
- 4Patru
  [paht-roo]
- 5Cinci
  [cheen-chee]
- 6Șase
  [shah-seh]
- 7Șapte
  [shahp-teh]
- 8Opt
  [opt]
- 9Nouă
  [noo-ah]
- 10Zece
  [zeh-cheh]
- Where's a/the...?Unde este unul/una...?
  [oon-deh yeh-steh oo-noo/oo-nah]
- What's the address?Care este adresa?
  [cah-reh yeh-steh ah-dreh-sah]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Puteți să-mi arătați (pe hartă)?
  [poo-tehtsuh suh-mee ah-ruhtah-tsuh (peh hahr-tah)]
- When's the next (bus)?Când vine următorul (autobuz)?
  [kuhnd vee-neh oor-muh-toh-rool (ow-toh-booze)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un bilet (spre ....)
  [oon bee-let (spreh)]

History of Transfagarasan Highway

The Transfagarasan Highway, also known as DN7C, was constructed between 1970 and 1974 under the regime of Nicolae Ceaușescu. It was originally conceived as a strategic military route to ensure quick military access across the Carpathian Mountains in case of a Soviet invasion. The construction involved the use of military personnel and was considered a monumental engineering feat due to the harsh, mountainous terrain.
Spanning 90 kilometers (56 miles), the Transfagarasan Highway ascends to an altitude of 2,042 meters (6,699 feet) at its highest point, making it one of the highest paved roads in Romania. The highway includes 27 viaducts and bridges, along with a 900-meter-long tunnel—the longest in Romania—that passes under the Paltinu Ridge. The road's intricate design includes numerous hairpin turns and S-curves, showcasing impressive engineering prowess.
Beyond its strategic and engineering aspects, the Transfagarasan Highway holds cultural significance. It connects the historical regions of Transylvania and Wallachia, offering travelers a journey through Romanian history and folklore. The road passes near the Poenari Castle, associated with Vlad the Impaler, the real-life inspiration for the Dracula legend. This proximity offers a glimpse into Romania's medieval past and its storied legends.
The Transfagarasan Highway traverses the Fagaras Mountains, part of the Southern Carpathians, which are known for their stunning natural beauty and rich biodiversity. The area is home to diverse flora and fauna, including endangered species such as the Carpathian lynx, brown bear, and European wolf. Along the route, travelers can witness breathtaking landscapes, glacial lakes like Bâlea Lake, and cascading waterfalls.
The construction of the Transfagarasan Highway significantly impacted local communities, providing better access to remote areas and boosting tourism. However, it also brought challenges, including environmental concerns and the displacement of some local populations. Over time, the highway has become a vital lifeline for local economies, offering opportunities for tourism-related businesses and fostering regional development.
Today, the Transfagarasan Highway is renowned as one of the most scenic drives in the world, attracting tourists, cyclists, and driving enthusiasts. It gained international fame after being featured in the British television show 'Top Gear,' where it was described as 'the best driving road in the world.' This recognition has cemented its status as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking adventure and breathtaking scenery.

Transfagarasan Highway Essentials

Transfagarasan Highway is located in Romania, stretching between the regions of Transylvania and Wallachia. The nearest major city is Sibiu, which has an international airport (Sibiu International Airport). From Sibiu, you can rent a car or take a bus to the highway. Alternatively, Bucharest, the capital of Romania, is about 200 kilometers away and offers more international flight options. From Bucharest, you can also rent a car or take a train to Curtea de Argeș, then proceed by bus or taxi to the highway.
While the most convenient way to explore the Transfagarasan Highway is by car, there are also options for guided tours if you prefer not to drive. Public buses run from nearby towns like Sibiu and Curtea de Argeș, but they may not cover the entire length of the highway. For a more flexible and comprehensive experience, renting a car is highly recommended. Keep in mind that the highway is typically only open from late June to early October due to snow.
The official currency in Romania is the Romanian Leu (RON). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops along the highway. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments, roadside vendors, and in case of emergencies. ATMs are available in major towns like Sibiu and Curtea de Argeș, but they are scarce along the highway itself.
The Transfagarasan Highway is generally safe for tourists. However, be cautious while driving as the road can be challenging with sharp turns and steep inclines. Wildlife, such as bears, may occasionally wander onto the road, so drive carefully. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always wise to stay vigilant, especially in crowded places and popular tourist spots. Avoid leaving valuables in your car unattended.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number can be used for police, medical, and fire emergencies. Along the highway, there are several mountain rescue stations and first aid points. Make sure to have a fully charged mobile phone and carry a first aid kit. It is also recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and outdoor activities.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for hiking if you plan to explore the surrounding areas. Dress in layers as the weather can change rapidly in the mountains. Religion: Do respect local religious customs when visiting monasteries and churches. Cover your shoulders and knees. Public Transport: Do use public transport respectfully. Offer your seat to elderly passengers. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Bună ziua' (Good day). A handshake is common among acquaintances. Eating & Drinking: Do try local Romanian dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality as it is considered impolite.
To experience the Transfagarasan Highway like a local, start your journey early in the morning to avoid heavy tourist traffic. Stop at the Vidraru Dam and take a boat ride on the Vidraru Lake for a unique perspective. Visit the Poenari Fortress, known as the real Dracula’s Castle, for a dose of history. Engage with locals at roadside markets where you can buy fresh produce, honey, and traditional Romanian crafts. Don't miss out on tasting local cheeses and meats, often sold by villagers along the route.

The Winding Wonders of Transfagarasan Highway

Know before you go