The border between Bulgaria and Romania stretches over a length of 605 kilometers, mainly formed by the Danube River. Due to this natural barrier, there are numerous bridges and ferry connections that serve as border crossings. These crossings play a crucial role in trade, tourism, and general mobility between the two countries. Despite being EU members, border controls still exist, often leading to long waiting times.
The crossings between the two countries vary in length, with the most important bridges handling the majority of the traffic. One of the most significant crossings is the Giurgiu-Russe Friendship Bridge, which spans the Danube and represents one of the main connections between the two countries. Another important connection is the Danube Bridge 2, connecting Calafat in Romania with Vidin in Bulgaria. These bridges are of strategic importance and are several kilometers long. The total length of the border is 605 kilometers, covering not only land crossings but also parts of the Black Sea.
Although both countries are EU members, border controls still exist. This is because both countries have not yet fully integrated into the Schengen Area. These controls often lead to long waiting times, especially for heavy goods traffic within the EU. At major border crossings, such as the Giurgiu-Russe Friendship Bridge, truck drivers can wait up to ten hours to cross the border. These waiting times not only affect the flow of goods but also increase costs for businesses relying on smooth logistics.
For entry into Romania or Bulgaria, EU citizens only need a valid ID card or passport. There is no visa requirement for EU citizens, which makes entry easier. However, travelers should stay informed about current entry requirements, as short-term changes may occur depending on the situation, especially regarding health regulations or security measures in place for each country.
In Romania, the official currency is the Romanian Leu (RON), while Bulgarians use the Bulgarian Lev (BGN). Both currencies are pegged to the Euro, minimizing exchange rate fluctuations and facilitating trade between the two countries. It is advisable for travelers to carry a small amount of local currency upon entry, as not everywhere accepts card payments. Currency exchange offices are common at border crossings and in larger cities, so currency exchange is easy to carry out.
Yes, at most border crossings between Bulgaria and Romania, tolls can be paid on-site. However, it is recommended to purchase the digital vignette online in advance. This is immediately valid and saves travelers waiting time at toll stations. The digital vignette can be easily purchased from home or while on the go, offering a simple way to pay toll fees. It is directly linked to the license plate. For travelers, the advantage is that the validity can be checked and verified during a control, even if no control occurs at the border crossing.
The most important border crossings between Bulgaria and Romania and the corresponding modes of transportation are:
Additionally, technically, airports also form a kind of border crossing to the other side.
The following section provides an overview of whether a vignette is required and if there are specific toll sections.
On Bulgarian national roads, a vignette is required. This vignette requirement applies to all vehicles up to 3.5 tons total weight as well as motorhomes (regardless of weight). Additionally, vehicles with trailers (e.g., car + trailer) that exceed the permitted total weight of 3.5 tons require an additional vignette for their trailers.
Motorcycles are exempt from the vignette requirement. Also, vehicles weighing over 3.5 tons total weight must pay a toll based on the distance traveled, so they do not need to purchase a vignette.
(Commercial) vehicles with a total weight over 3.5 tons must pay a distance-based toll, meaning the length of the route used by the vehicles is calculated. The toll amount also depends on the Euro emission class (pollution level), the number of axles, and the type of road. The toll is paid via a pre-purchased route card (route pass), where the distance traveled must be specified. Alternatively, a contract with a national toll service provider can be arranged, where the toll is recorded using an electronic device (On-Board-Unit) or a GPS tracker.
The Danube crossings are considered special toll routes. Therefore, you must pay additional fees for the use of Danube crossings, regardless of whether you have already purchased a vignette or paid a distance-based toll. Possible Danube crossings between Romania and Bulgaria are:
The following section provides an overview of whether a vignette is required and if there are specific toll sections.
Romania has an electronic vignette called “Rovinieta” that is required for the Romanian national road network. It is important to know that trailers (caravans) do not need their own vignette, and motorhomes must have a car vignette regardless of their weight. The electronic vignette records vehicle data and the vignette's validity period in a database, so the consumer only receives a receipt for the paid amount, which should be kept. Depending on the vehicle class, you need to choose a different vignette, with different prices. You can conveniently order your digital vignette from home.
In Romania, there is no distance-based toll, but you need a digital vignette, and additional fees for Danube crossings should be considered.
This overview of the border crossing between Bulgaria and Romania provides all the important information you need for a smooth and well-prepared journey. Whether it's border controls, entry requirements, or toll fees, being well-informed makes the journey much easier.
