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Rent A Car In Craiova, Romania With Competitive Rates And Clear Pickup Options

Use this comprehensive guide to compare airport vs. downtown pickup, understand insurance and fees, and find the right deal for exploring Craiova and the surrounding region.

Updated Travel-Friendly Guide
Craiova Car Rental Guide: Airport & City Pickup Made Simple
Renting a car in Craiova is a practical way to explore Dolj County and reach nearby cities and countryside areas on your own schedule. Most travelers choose either Craiova International Airport (CRA) for maximum convenience after landing, or a downtown pickup for potentially lower rates and easier access if you’re already staying in the city. Expect manual transmissions to be common, deposits to be held on a credit card, and fuel policies to vary—so reviewing the rental terms (fuel, mileage, deposit, and insurance) before you book can prevent surprises at the counter.
Alamo
Avis
National
Budget
Europcar
Enterprise
+ plus
Craiova International Airport (CRA) – Arrivals/Car Rental Area
Best choice if you want to land and drive right away. Follow airport signs for car rentals after baggage claim/arrivals; counters are typically inside the terminal or in a nearby designated area. Pros: time-saving pickup, flight-aligned hours, easy returns before departure. Cons: airport surcharges may apply, and peak times can mean higher prices or limited vehicle selection unless you book ahead.
Craiova City Center (Old Town Area)
Convenient if you’re staying centrally and don’t want to deal with airport pricing. Pros: often competitive rates, walkable from many hotels, easier to compare nearby options. Cons: limited parking and one-way streets can make pickup/return slower, and business hours may be shorter than at the airport.
Craiova Railway Station Area (Gara Craiova)
A practical pickup point for travelers arriving by train or connecting from other Romanian cities. Pros: good transit access and straightforward meetups. Cons: traffic and curbside stopping can be tricky during busy periods, and vehicle availability may be smaller than airport inventories.
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De quoi avez-vous besoin pour louer une voiture à Craiova ?

Louer une voiture à Craiova est assez pratique, mais il peut y avoir certaines exigences spécifiques, notamment pour les conducteurs étrangers.

  • Forme d'identité : A valid physical Romania national photo ID is required for the main driver (and any additional drivers).
  • Permis de conduire : The main driver and any additional drivers must present a full physical Romanian driving licence with no major endorsements, held for at least 2 years. Photocopies or scanned copies are not accepted.
  • Cartes acceptées : Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted cards: Visa, MasterCard, and in some cases American Express. Debit cards are not accepted. Some offers support XpCard. A second card is generally not required.
  • Exigences d'âge : General eligible driving age ranges by offer: from minimum 19–25 up to maximum 70–100. The strictest combined range is approximately 21–70, but some offers allow younger (from 19 or 20) and older (up to 99–100) drivers, sometimes with extra fees. Young driver surcharges may apply, for example: ages 19–21 around $14.07/day; 20–23 about $11.62/day; 21–24 about $4.15–$11.95/day; 21–25 about $16.61/day. Some offers also charge senior drivers (e.g., age 70+ about $4.65/day). Exact applicable age limits and fees depend on the specific car and offer selected.
  • Permis de conduire : The main driver and any additional drivers must present a full physical driving licence with no major endorsements, held for at least 2 years. Photocopies or scanned copies are not accepted. Accepted driving licence include:
    • Original driving licence + International Driving Permit (IDP) (IDP is only a translation; you must also present your original licence)
    • EU/EEA Driving License (valid across the EU/EEA, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom).

    Remarques : *Driver's license, passport, and IDP must be issued in the same country (may apply to some offers only).

  • Forme d'identité : A valid passport is required for the main driver (and any additional drivers).
  • Cartes acceptées : Physical credit cards in the full name of the main driver are required. Accepted cards: Visa, MasterCard, and in some offers American Express. Debit cards are not accepted. Some offers support XpCard. A second card is generally not required. For some rates, printed proof of Collision/Theft coverage from your card issuer or insurer may be required, showing your name/card details, coverage, validity dates, applicable countries, and vehicle types.
  • Exigences d'âge : General eligible driving age ranges by offer: from minimum 19–25 up to maximum 70–100. The strictest combined range is approximately 21–70, but some offers allow younger (from 19 or 20) and older (up to 99–100) drivers, sometimes with extra fees. Young driver surcharges may apply, for example: ages 19–21 around $14.07/day; 20–23 about $11.62/day; 21–24 about $4.15–$11.95/day; 21–25 about $16.61/day. Some offers also charge senior drivers (e.g., age 70+ about $4.65/day). Exact applicable age limits and fees depend on the specific car and offer selected.
requirementsrequirements

Best Car Rentals in Craiova for Every Journey

Discover the perfect wheels for your Craiova adventure, from mountain escapes to city explorations and beyond.

Mountain

SUV

Mountain-Ready Power & Stability
5
3
Auto

Romania's Transfagarasan and Carpathian roads demand serious capability. A SUV handles gravel passes, steep switchbacks, and unpredictable alpine weather with ease. Higher ground clearance means river crossings and rough forest tracks won't slow you down. American drivers appreciate the commanding driving position when the views get spectacular.

City

Medium

Agile Streets, Easy Parking
5
2
Auto

Craiova's historic center and University Quarter have narrower streets and tighter parking spots. A medium sedan or hatchback cuts through traffic effortlessly and slides into those impossible spots downtown. Fuel economy matters less when everything is within walking distance, but maneuverability is king in Romania's southern capital.

Long Distance

Premium

Comfort for the Open Road
5
3
Auto

The drive from Craiova to Bucharest or the Danube Delta is 230 to 360 kilometers on well-maintained highways. Premium vehicles offer the refined suspension, quiet cabins, and advanced safety features that make hours behind the wheel genuinely relaxing. American travelers often prioritize comfort on European road trips, and Romania's southern highways deliver pure driving pleasure.

Choisissez votre véhicule

Trouvez le véhicule parfait pour votre voyage. Comparez les options ci-dessous.

Airport Pickup (CRA)
Downtown Pickup

Fastest Start: Pick Up At Craiova International Airport

Airport pickup is ideal if you want to hit the road immediately after landing. You’ll typically find better flight-to-car timing, clearer return logistics before departure, and a more travel-focused process. Booking ahead is recommended to lock in availability and avoid peak-time price spikes or limited vehicle choice.

logo
City ZipperSmall
Skoda Citigo

Skoda Citigo

SixtIn terminal, Walk to counter
4
1
4
Manual
Annulationdes frais d’annulation s’appliquent
Dépôt de garantie$3,538.17 - $5,896.95
KilométrageIllimité
PaiementCarte de crédit
Vérifier les tarifs
logo
City ZipperSmall
Dacia Logan

Dacia Logan

SixtIn terminal, Walk to counter
4
2
2
Manual
Annulationdes frais d’annulation s’appliquent
Dépôt de garantie$3,538.17 - $5,896.95
KilométrageIllimité
PaiementCarte de crédit
Vérifier les tarifs
logo
City ZipperSmall
Opel Corsa

Opel Corsa

SixtIn terminal, Walk to counter
5
1
4
Manual
Annulationdes frais d’annulation s’appliquent
Dépôt de garantie$3,538.17 - $5,896.95
KilométrageIllimité
PaiementCarte de crédit
Vérifier les tarifs
logo
Group TransporterVan
Dacia Jogger

Dacia Jogger

AlamoIn terminal, Walk to counter
5
2
4
Manual
Annulationdes frais d’annulation s’appliquent
Dépôt de garantie$589.70 - $1,179.39
KilométrageIllimité
PaiementCarte de crédit
Vérifier les tarifs
logo
Group TransporterVan
Opel Zafira

Opel Zafira

SixtIn terminal, Walk to counter
7
2
4
Manual
Annulationdes frais d’annulation s’appliquent
Dépôt de garantie$3,538.17 - $5,896.95
KilométrageIllimité
PaiementCarte de crédit
Vérifier les tarifs
logo
Group TransporterVan
Dacia Jogger

Dacia Jogger

SixtIn terminal, Walk to counter
7
2
4
Manual
Annulationdes frais d’annulation s’appliquent
Dépôt de garantie$534.32
KilométrageLimité
PaiementCarte de crédit
Vérifier les tarifs
logo
Highway CruiserLarge
Renault Megane Estate

Renault Megane Estate

AlamoIn terminal, Walk to counter
5
2
4
Manual
Annulationdes frais d’annulation s’appliquent
Dépôt de garantie$589.70 - $1,179.39
KilométrageIllimité
PaiementCarte de crédit
Vérifier les tarifs
logo
Highway CruiserLarge
Renault Megane Estate

Renault Megane Estate

EuropcarIn terminal
5
2
4
Manual
Annulationdes frais d’annulation s’appliquent
Dépôt de garantie$593.69
KilométrageIllimité
PaiementCarte de crédit
Vérifier les tarifs
logo
Highway CruiserLarge
Ford Focus Estate

Ford Focus Estate

AlamoIn terminal, Walk to counter
5
3
4
Auto
Annulationdes frais d’annulation s’appliquent
Dépôt de garantie$589.70 - $1,179.39
KilométrageIllimité
PaiementCarte de crédit
Vérifier les tarifs

Craiova (CRA) Car Rentals: See Real Traveler Reviews

Read genuine reviews from real customers who picked up their rental cars at Craiova Airport. Make informed decisions based on trusted traveler experiences.

Agence de locationÉvaluationTarif moyen par jourMéthode / distance de prise en chargeDépôt de garantieAccepte les cartes de débitAvantages clés
Klass wagenBest Overall
4.2
17,000+ reviews
$69Shuttle busDépôt de garantie réduit
  • Friendly professional staff
  • Clean well-maintained cars
  • Great value for money
AutonomBest Overall
4.2
53 reviews
$70In terminal, Walk to counter-
  • Professional and friendly service
  • Clean, brand-new vehicles
  • Flexible pickup and dropoff
Routes
3.3
5385+ reviews
$394.7 mi
$2,184
  • Competitive pricing with great value
  • Helpful staff especially Carlos
  • Smooth pickup and drop-off process
Alamo
2.5
7 reviews
$51In terminal, Walk to counter
$575 - $1,150
  • Free vehicle upgrades available
  • Polite and helpful staff
  • Latest model vehicles provided
Europcar
1.5
3900+ reviews
$90In terminal
$582
  • Quick Service, Friendly Staff
  • Clean Vehicles, Good Condition
  • Smooth Overall Rental Process

*Les évaluations et les avis proviennent de Trustpilot. Les détails de la police peuvent varier selon le lieu et le type de véhicule. Veuillez confirmer au moment de la réservation.

Source de données: Location de voitures QEEQ
Dernière mise à jour: Jun. 17 2026
Essentiel Location Hub
Tout ce que vous devez savoir avant de prendre la route. Sélectionnez un sujet pour en obtenir tous les détails.
Step-by-Step Guide for Car Accidents in Rental Cars in Romania
This guide outlines essential steps to take after a car accident in a rental car in Romania, covering safety, documentation, and legal requirements.
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First-Timer's Guide to Refueling a Car in Romania
A comprehensive guide for first-time travelers to Romania on how to refuel a rental car, including types of fuel, payment methods, and essential phrases.
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Avoid Hidden Car Rental Fees in Craiova
This guide provides essential tips for avoiding hidden car rental fees in Craiova, Romania, helping you navigate the rental process, understand insurance, fuel policies, and inspection procedures.
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Aperçu de la plateforme

Car Rental Expert Advice

By QEEQ Platform Expert Team

Indicateurs d’expertise

Reconnaissance de la plateforme

Meilleur site de réservation de location de voiture d’Asie 2023 & 2024

Volume de réservations

Qualité des avis

Plus de 10 000 avis vérifiés 5 étoiles

Expérience sur le marché

Autorité des données

Vérification d’expertise

Données QEEQ vérifiées auprès des sources de données officielles locales

Informations clés d’expert

Analyse de la plateforme

"Craiova Airport (CRA) dominates as the primary pickup location, handling 578,701 passengers in 2025 with 36.2% YoY growth. Wizz Air accounts for approximately 85% of routes to 14+ European destinations. Airport location offers in-terminal services from WheeGo, Pricecarz, and Klass Wagen with shuttle options."

Modèles de réservation

"Economy vehicles (Dacia Sandero, Fiat 500) represent 60% of bookings starting at €3.32/day. SUV/Compact SUV demand growing at 25% annually due to rural road conditions. Peak season June-August sees 45% price increase. Average rental duration: 5-7 days. 76% prefer manual transmission; automatic premium 35-50%."

Points de douleur des clients

"52% of 1-star reviews cite hidden fees/unexpected charges post-booking. 40% report insurance coverage confusion between CDW and full coverage. 35% complain about aggressive upselling at pickup counters. Average wait time: 60-90 minutes at budget operators. 28% dispute fuel policy charges upon return."

Sources de données

  • Base de données interne de réservation QEEQ
  • Wikipedia - Craiova International Airport Statistics
  • DiscoverCars - Craiova Car Rental Listings
  • Budget Romania Locations
  • DiscoverCars - Craiova Vehicle Availability & Pricing
  • Auto Europe Romania Car Rental Guide
  • Autorent.ro (Thrifty Romania) Policy & Pricing
  • Trustpilot - Goldcar Reviews (52,789 reviews, 1.4/5 rating)
  • Trustpilot - DiscoverCars.com Reviews (260,493 reviews, 4.6/5 rating)

Drive Through Craiova: Your Ultimate Car Rental Guide

Explore the Heart of Romania with Affordable Car Rentals in Craiova - Historic Streets, Scenic Routes, and Unforgettable Journeys Await

LANGUES

Romanian

DEVISE

RON

ROULEZ

Right-hand side

CODE PAYS

+40

PRIX MOYEN DE LOCATION DE VOITURE

$26 per day

DURÉE MOYENNE DE LOCATION DE VOITURE

3 days

LIMITATION DE VITESSE EN AGGLOMÉRATION

50 km/h

LIMITATION DE VITESSE HORS AGGLOMÉRATION

130 km/h

TAUX D’ALCOOLÉMIE LÉGALEMENT AUTORISÉ

0.00% (Zero Tolerance)

PRIX MOYEN DU CARBURANT

$2.09/L

PRIX DU CARBURANT LE PLUS BAS / LE PLUS ÉLEVÉ

$0.96/L - $2.09/L

Craiova Car Rental Guide

Essential driving tips and rental advice for exploring Craiova and southern Romania by car

Can I drive in Romania with my US driver's license, or do I need an International Driving Permit?
US licenses are valid in Romania, but an International Driving Permit (IDP) is strongly recommended. Romanian police often request an IDP for foreign drivers, and rental companies may refuse to hand over the vehicle without one. Get an IDP from AAA before departure—it costs around $20 and takes 15 minutes. Carry both your US license and IDP at all times.
How do I pay for highway tolls in Romania? Do I need a vignette?
Romania uses an electronic toll system called Rovinieta. You'll need to purchase a vignette before entering highways—available at gas stations, border crossings, and online. Rates: about €3 for 7 days, €7 for 30 days, or €13 for 90 days for passenger cars. Fines for missing vignettes start at €250. Don't risk it—buy one before hitting the road.
I'm 22 years old. Will I face a young driver surcharge when renting in Craiova?
Yes, expect to pay a young driver surcharge if you're under 25. Most Romanian rental companies charge €15-€25 per day for drivers aged 21-24. Some agencies also add a fee for drivers over 70. Book early and compare agencies—Sixt and Budget at Craiova Airport tend to have clearer age-based pricing. Your US auto insurance likely won't cover you in Romania, so factor full insurance into your budget.
What type of fuel do I need, and are gas stations easy to find outside Craiova?
Most rental cars in Romania run on diesel (motorina), which is significantly cheaper than in the US—around €1.40-1.60 per liter. If you get a gasoline car, premium 95-octane is standard. Gas stations are plentiful along highways and in cities, but can be sparse in rural Oltenia region. Always keep your tank above half when traveling outside Craiova. Most stations accept credit cards but carry some cash for smaller rural pumps.
Do I need winter tires or snow chains in Romania? When are they required?
Between November 1 and March 31, winter tires with M+S标记 (mud + snow) are legally required when driving in snowy or icy conditions. Snow chains are mandatory on mountain passes like the Transfăgărășan (which closes entirely October-April). If you're visiting Craiova in winter, rental agencies can provide winter-ready vehicles—book in advance and expect to pay €5-€15 per day extra. Summer visitors can skip this entirely.
What are the speed limits in Romania, and how strictly are they enforced?
Speed limits: 50 km/h in cities, 100 km/h on national roads (DN), and 130 km/h on highways (A). Romanian police use both fixed cameras and mobile radar—fines start at €80 for exceeding limits by 10 km/h and escalate quickly. On the A1 between Craiova and Bucharest, camera zones are clearly marked with signs. Speed traps are especially common near villages. Drive at or below limits, particularly in areas with pedestrian traffic.

Prix de la plateforme QEEQ

Reconnue mondialement pour l’excellence de ses services de réservation de location de voiture et la satisfaction de sa clientèle.

Meilleur site de réservation de location de voitures d’Asie 2025

Meilleur site de réservation de location de voitures d’Asie 2025

Meilleur site de réservation de location de voitures en Asie 2024

Meilleur site de réservation de location de voitures en Asie 2024

Meilleur site de réservation de location de voitures d’Asie 2023

Meilleur site de réservation de location de voitures d’Asie 2023

Meilleur site de réservation de location de voitures d’Asie 2022

Meilleur site de réservation de location de voitures d’Asie 2022

Meilleur Prix Partenaire Commercial d'ABG 2023 & 2024

Meilleur Prix Partenaire Commercial d'ABG 2023 & 2024

Prix d’Excellence en Affaires 2024

Prix d’Excellence en Affaires 2024

Les Magellan Awards dans la catégorie des services de location de voiture

Les Magellan Awards dans la catégorie des services de location de voiture

Les Travolution Awards du Meilleur Service sur la Route

Les Travolution Awards du Meilleur Service sur la Route

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