Romanian trains for beginners

Romanians are very pride of their trains, and they have rights to be. The country boasts a robust railway system that extends even to many villages. With numerous international routes connecting Romania to Hungary, Bulgaria, Moldova, and Turkey, the railway network enhances Romania's connectivity with neighboring countries. The link to Budapest is particularly advantageous for traveling throughout Europe. While many European countries have replaced railway tracks with roads, Romania has retained its railway infrastructure, which aligns well with modern trends toward green energy.

In Romania, railway stations are called "Gara" with the main station often referred to as "Gara de Nord," typically located in the northern part of the city. The term "Gara" simply means "station" Bus station is called "Auto Gara." This distinction highlights the historical significance of train travel in the culture and language.

In the middle of the night in Severin

Diesel train on non-electrified railway system

Empty Gara Bucurest, summer peak

Cehapest local train Bucurest - Craiova



Buchurest Gara

Night train, first class, CFR

Promotion 

Night train Trans Astra Carpatian



Coffee machine in Softrans

On the way to Brasov, good catch

Softrans with book library

Local train Pitesti - Craiova

Night train Timisoara - Bucharest


However, bus stations in Romania are less popular and often in poor condition, with limited hours, even in Bucharest, the capital. Remarkably, train tickets for students are discounted by 90%, and seniors receive a 50% discount, making train travel extremely affordable—something quite rare elsewhere. Tickets can be purchased online or at ticket offices in city stations. It certainly feels like trains reach every village in Romania.

Types of Train Companies

Romania has several train companies. The state-owned CFR (Căile Ferate Române), established in 1880, serves the entire network. Tickets can be bought online or at ticket offices.

Softrans is a private company that connects Craiova to Brașov via Bucharest, and Craiova to Constanța, also through Bucharest. Tickets can be purchased online or onboard the train, with payment options for cash or card.

Astra Trans Carpatic is another private operator offering night services from Cluj to Bucharest, with tickets available online or on the train.

Speed of the Trains

When compared to Western European trains, Romanian trains are generally slower and can often run late. However, if you're delayed, the train is likely to be as well, so you might still arrive on time. Some locals have mentioned that trains were faster 15 years ago, but upgrades are expected soon.

Railway Conditions

Romanian trains are quite comfortable, clean, and suitable for sleeping, especially on night journeys, which tend to be quieter and warmer.

Types of Railway Network

An interesting aspect of the Romanian railway system is the prevalence of non-electrified lines, with many trains operating on diesel. This gives a unique travel experience, akin to being in a car. While major and international routes are electrified, many local lines remain diesel-powered, a feature I haven't encountered elsewhere, making it a fascinating aspect of the journey.

 

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