Car rental in Cluj-Napoca: Everything you need to know

Are you travelling to Romania and thinking about car rental in Cluj-Napoca?

As a Romanian native who spent 3 years living in Cluj-Napoca, I truly recommend driving as the best way to explore the beautiful surroundings of the city and plan amazing day trips. Cluj-Napoca lies in the heart of Transylvania and from here you can easily exlpore amazing destinations like the cities of Sibiu, Sighisoara, Alba Iulia and the Regions of Maramures or Moldavia. Thanks to the newly modernized Transylvania highway and numerous freeways, driving is the best and fastest way to make the most of your trip.

While Cluj-Napoca offers a great public transportation network within the city, travelling to popular destinations for a day trip can be quite a challenge due to slow trains and expensive taxi services.

However, if you are a bit nervous about renting a car in Cluj-Napoca, I can help! I rented cars several times in Cluj-Napoca and have found a reliable company with decent prices.

In this article, I´ll provide everything you need to know about car rental in Cluj-Napoca. I will also give you essential advice about driving in Romania so you can feel confident about navigating through Cluj-Napoca and surroundings.

Want a printable checklist of attractions, best hotels, restaurants, foods to try and tips on public transportation to Cluj? Download my Free Cluj Starter Pack! Perfect for first-time visitors.

While Cluj-Napoca itself is a compact city with an Old Town that’s easy to explore on foot or by using the efficient public transport system, renting a car becomes almost indispensable if you want to experience the true beauty of Transylvania and its surroundings.

The city is well-connected by buses and trams, but these are mainly useful for getting around within Cluj-Napoca’s neighborhoods or reaching the airport. When it comes to day trips or multi-day excursions to places like Turda Salt Mine, the Apuseni Mountains, Maramureș, or the medieval towns of Sibiu and Sighișoara, public transport options are often limited, infrequent, and time-consuming.

Trains and regional buses can be slow, with inconvenient schedules and sometimes outdated vehicles, while taxi or rideshare services for long distances can become prohibitively expensive and lack flexibility.

With a rental car, you have the freedom to create your own itinerary, stop at scenic viewpoints or hidden villages along the way, and travel comfortably at your own pace, making the most of your time in Romania.

Need a rental car in Cluj-Napoca? My top choice for the best deals and flexibility is Discorver Cars!

Renting a car in Cluj-Napoca is a straightforward process, but you should be aware of a few essential requirements before you book.

Valid Driver’s License – Most car rental companies, whether international or local, require that you present a valid driver’s license. If you are an EU or UK citizen, your national license is accepted without any problems. For travelers from outside the EU, especially from the US, Canada, or Australia, an International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended, and in some cases, mandatory—this permit must be presented alongside your original license.

Passport or ID – For identification purposes, you will need a valid passport or national ID card.

Credit card – A major credit card in the driver’s name is almost always required for the security deposit, though a few local companies may accept debit cards, often with additional conditions or higher deposits.

Minimum age requirement –The minimum age for renting a car is typically 21 or 23, but some companies set the limit at 25, especially for larger or premium vehicles. Drivers under 25 may face a young driver surcharge, and you’ll usually need to have held your license for at least one year. Always check the specific requirements of your chosen company before booking to avoid surprises at pick-up.

Cluj-Napoca is served by a wide range of car rental companies, from major international brands to trusted local providers, ensuring you have plenty of options to suit your preferences and budget.

The most convenient place to rent a car is at Cluj-Napoca Avram Iancu International Airport, where you’ll find desks for Europcar, SIXT, Enterprise, Avis, Hertz, Alamo, and Budget, as well as several reputable Romanian companies such as Autonom, Direct Rent, and Pont Rent a Car.

Renting from the airport is ideal if you want to start your journey immediately upon arrival, as the process is streamlined and staff usually speak good English.

If you’re already in the city, you’ll find rental offices in the city center, near the main train station, and at major hotels. Local companies often have competitive rates, flexible pick-up and drop-off options, and personalized customer service, which is highly appreciated by many travelers in online reviews.

To secure the best deal and widest choice, it’s wise to book in advance using comparison websites which aggregate offers from over 25 companies and allow you to filter by car type, price, and rental conditions. Many platforms offer free cancellation, transparent pricing, and the option to add insurance or extras like GPS and child seats.

When searching for the best car rental deals in Cluj-Napoca, I always recommend using Discover Cars. This platform consistently finds some of the lowest prices available, comparing offers from both international brands and trusted local agencies—sometimes with rates starting as low as €1 per day for mini and economy cars if you book in advance. One of the standout features is that you can read verified customer reviews for each rental company and car type, which helps ensure you’re choosing a reputable provider for your trip. In addition to their competitive pricing, Discover Cars offers free cancellation on most bookings and the option to add full coverage insurance for around 7 € per day, giving you extra peace of mind and flexibility for your travels.

Choosing the right car for your trip depends on your travel plans, group size, and the regions you intend to explore.

For solo travelers, couples, or those planning to stay mostly within the city or take short trips on well-maintained roads, a compact or economy car (such as a Dacia Sandero, Renault Clio, or similar) is the most practical and budget-friendly option. These cars are easy to park, fuel-efficient, and handle city traffic well.

If you’re traveling with family or friends, or if you plan to cover longer distances and want extra comfort, consider an intermediate or standard car (like a VW Golf, Opel Astra, or Skoda Octavia), which offers more space for passengers and luggage.

For those planning to venture into the mountains, rural areas, or visit during winter months, renting an SUV or 4×4 (such as a Dacia Duster or Nissan Qashqai) is highly recommended, as these vehicles provide better ground clearance and stability on winding or occasionally rough roads.
Families or larger groups may benefit from renting a minivan or 7-seater, ensuring everyone travels comfortably with ample space for luggage.

Most rental cars in Romania have manual transmission, so if you prefer an automatic, be sure to specify this when booking, as automatics are less common and often more expensive.
Some companies now offer electric or hybrid vehicles, but charging infrastructure is still developing outside major cities, so plan accordingly if you choose this option.

Car rental in Cluj-Napoca is generally very affordable by European standards, especially if you book in advance and are flexible with your dates and car category.

Prices for a basic economy car can start as low as €7–€15 per day outside peak season, with rates rising to €25–€40 per day for intermediate or standard vehicles. SUVs and larger cars typically cost €40–€70 per day, while premium or luxury vehicles can exceed €100 per day.

To get the best rates, make sure to book at least 2–4 weeks ahead, particularly if you plan to visit during the summer, major holidays, or popular festivals like Untold or TIFF, when demand is at its highest.

Comparison websites like DiscoverCars are invaluable for finding deals, and many offer discounts for longer rentals or early bookings. Look for rental offers with a full-to-full fuel policy (you pick up and return the car with a full tank), as this is usually the most cost-effective and transparent arrangement. Be aware of potential extra charges for GPS, child seats, additional drivers, or cross-border travel.

To avoid high insurance excesses, consider purchasing a separate excess waiver policy online, which is often much cheaper than the rental company’s own coverage. Local Romanian companies such as Autonom and Direct Rent offer excellent value, clear terms, and fewer hidden fees compared to some international chains.

Driving in Romania can be a rewarding experience, offering the chance to discover scenic landscapes, charming villages, and historic towns at your own pace, but it’s important to be prepared for local conditions and driving rules

The main highways and national roads (marked “A” for highways (autostrada) and “DN” for national roads) are generally in good condition and well-signposted, especially the recently upgraded Transylvania highway (A3), which makes travel between cities fast and comfortable.

However, once you leave the main routes, you may encounter narrower roads, occasional potholes, and slower-moving agricultural vehicles, especially in rural areas.

Romanian drivers can be impatient, and overtaking on single-lane roads is common, so always drive defensively and stay alert.

Speed limits are strictly enforced: 50 km/h in towns, 90 km/h on country roads, and 130 km/h on highways.

Headlights must be on at all times, regardless of the hour or weather, otherwise you risk paying fines.

Seat belts are mandatory for all passengers, and using a mobile phone while driving is only allowed with a hands-free system.

In winter (November to March), snow tires are mandatory if roads are covered with snow or ice, and rental companies will provide these if needed.

Police checks are frequent, so always carry your license, ID, rental contract, and proof of insurance.
If you plan to drive outside Romania, check with your rental company for cross-border policies and necessary documentation, as extra fees or restrictions may apply.

Parking in Cluj-Napoca and other Romanian cities is regulated and, in central areas, usually paid.

The city center is divided into parking zones, with rates ranging from 3 to 7 lei (about €0.60–€1.40) per hour, payable at meters, via SMS, or through dedicated mobile apps such as TPARK. Parking attendants patrol regularly, and fines are issued for non-payment or overstaying the allotted time.

Free parking is rare in the city center, but many hotels offer guest parking—always confirm availability when booking your accommodation. Shopping centers and supermarkets usually provide free parking for customers.

In residential neighborhoods and rural areas, parking is generally free and easy to find, but always check for local signage to avoid fines.

Never park on sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, or in spaces reserved for disabled drivers unless you have the appropriate permit, as fines and towing are enforced.

Renting a car in Cluj-Napoca is the best way to explore some of Romania’s most impressive sights with ease.

One of the most popular destinations is Salina Turda, an extraordinary underground salt mine transformed into a surreal amusement park and wellness center, located just 40 minutes south of Cluj.

If you want to experience one of the most beautiful traditional villages in Romania, plan a trip to the village of Rimetea and take a tour through the sweet little museum with traditional artefacts. The panorama of the Trascau mountains from here is truly amazing.

Nature lovers should not miss the Apuseni Mountains, a paradise for hiking, caving, and wildlife spotting, with highlights such as Scărișoara Ice Cave and the dramatic Turda Gorge (Cheile Turzii).

History enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to Alba Iulia, home to the stunning Alba Carolina Fortress and rich Roman heritage, about 1.5 hours’ drive away.

For a journey back in time, head to Sighișoara, a UNESCO-listed medieval citadel and the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, which can be reached in about 2.5 hours.

The region of Maramureș, famous for its wooden churches, traditional villages, and the colorful Merry Cemetery in Săpânța, is a longer but rewarding trip (3–4 hours north).

If you’re fascinated by castles, don’t miss Corvin Castle (Castelul Huniazilor) in Hunedoara, a fairytale Gothic fortress about 2.5 hours south of Cluj.
Having a car also allows you to discover hidden gems, rural guesthouses, and local wineries that are off the beaten path and inaccessible by public transport.

If you are planning to visit Cluj-Napoca and see more of Romania than just the city, getting a rental car is the best and most flexible way to do this.

Car rental in Cluj-Napoca is affordable and accessible, so there is no reason to limit yourself by relying on public transportation to explore everything the surroundings have to offer.

Make sure to get acquainted in advance to driving rules in Romania (see above) so you feel safe on the road.

Also don´t forget you can save a lot of money by booking your car in advance. This also guarantees that you find your preferred car.

Now that you know everything there is to know about car rental, check out my Cluj-Napoca guide for first-time visitors to explore the best things to do and make the most of your trip! Also take a look at my Cluj-Napoca hotels guide to find a suitable place to stay!

If you need help with planning your trip to Romania or consistent information on travel costs and budget, check out my complete guides to plan your visit in the best possible way!