The Shifting Road Network: How Romania, Bulgaria, and Hungary Are Racing to Modernize
For decades, the road networks of Central and Southeastern Europe lagged behind Western European standards. Now, a surge in construction, fueled by EU funding and a growing need for efficient transport, is reshaping the landscape. Whereas Romania currently leads the pack in new kilometers added, the story is complex, with Bulgaria looking to learn from its neighbor’s successes and Hungary adapting its approach.
Romania’s Highway Boom: A Late Starter Gains Momentum
Romania has dramatically increased its highway network in recent years, exceeding 1,400 kilometers as of late 2025. Over a third of this expansion occurred in the last five years, with 2026 projected to be a record year, adding another 250 km. This rapid growth is largely attributed to the influx of European funds and a renewed focus on infrastructure development.
The country’s late start means it still has significant ground to cover. Compared to its neighbors, Romania’s highway density – kilometers of highway per square kilometer of land – remains relatively low. However, the current pace of construction signals a commitment to bridging this gap.
Bulgaria’s Catch-Up Game: Lessons from Romania
Bulgaria experienced a construction boom between 2010 and 2017, but progress stalled in recent years due to political instability, corruption concerns, and funding issues. Interestingly, Bulgarian construction firms are now increasingly looking to Romania for opportunities, citing timely payments and a more stable project environment. As one unnamed company representative stated, “In Romania, the state makes payments on time and there are no delays of years.”
The Hemus highway, intended to connect Sofia to Varna, exemplifies the challenges Bulgaria faces. Construction began in 1974 but remains unfinished, with approximately 200 km still lacking. The project has been plagued by controversy and allegations of mismanagement, leading to significant delays and cost overruns. The ongoing issues with the Hemus highway have led Bulgarians to jokingly refer to it as “the eighth wonder of the world.”
Hungary’s Evolving Strategy: From EU Funds to Concessions
Hungary was ahead of Romania and Bulgaria in highway development after the fall of communism, reaching 1,400 km of highways a decade ago. It has since expanded to nearly 2,000 km. However, the government is now shifting its strategy, moving away from reliance on EU funding towards a concession-based model.
In 2022, the operation of 1,237 km of highways was transferred to a newly established concession company, MKIF, linked to individuals close to the ruling party. This move involves long-term contracts (35 years) and significant financial commitments from the state, raising questions about transparency and value for money.
Comparative Data: Road Density Across the Region
The following table illustrates the disparity in road density among these countries:
| Country | Surface Area (km²) | Highway & Expressway Length (km) – Late 2025 | km of Road per 1,000 km² |
| Hungary | 93,030 | 2,000 | 21.5 |
| Bulgaria | 111,000 | 875 | 7.88 |
| Croatia | 56,594 | 1,360 | 24 |
| Romania | 238,400 | 1,416 | 5.94 |
This data highlights Romania’s need for continued investment to reach the road density levels of its neighbors, particularly Croatia and Hungary.
The Role of EU Funding
EU funding has been a catalyst for highway development in all three countries. Accession to the EU unlocked substantial financial resources that were channeled into infrastructure projects. However, the reliance on EU funds also introduces complexities, as evidenced by the challenges Bulgaria has faced with projects not qualifying for EU support.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
The future of highway development in Romania, Bulgaria, and Hungary will depend on several factors, including political stability, efficient project management, and continued access to funding. Romania’s current momentum is encouraging, but sustaining this pace will require addressing issues of corruption and ensuring transparent procurement processes.
Bulgaria needs to overcome its internal challenges and learn from the experiences of its neighbors. Timely payments to contractors and a streamlined regulatory environment are crucial for attracting investment and accelerating construction.
Hungary’s shift towards a concession-based model presents both opportunities and risks. While it may unlock private capital, it also raises concerns about long-term costs and potential conflicts of interest.
FAQ
Q: What is the current length of highways in Romania?
A: As of late 2025, Romania has over 1,416 kilometers of highways and expressways.
Q: Why is Bulgaria lagging behind in highway construction?
A: Bulgaria has faced challenges related to political instability, corruption, and funding issues.
Q: What is Hungary’s new approach to highway development?
A: Hungary is increasingly relying on concession-based models, transferring highway operation to private companies for long-term contracts.
Q: What role does EU funding play in these projects?
A: EU funding has been a significant catalyst for highway development in all three countries.
Did you know? Romania opened 195 km of new highways in 2024, a record year for the country.
Pro Tip: When planning a road trip through this region, always check the latest road conditions and traffic updates, as construction projects can cause delays.
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